Check out the translated video! However, there’s one thing that has been really bothering me. That's … I'm worried about Okita's condition. Iba’s concerns. What I can do. ... I'm worried about Iba. It seemed that Itou's behavior from earlier caught his attention. However, Iba– Hachiro Iba: "Well then, Toshi, I'll take my leave." I just left the room. Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah…” This is not good. If Iba returns to the inn like this, I’ll miss the chance to hear his thoughts. Chizuru Yukimura: “Hijikata, I will take my leave as well.” After bowing to Hijikata, I left the room. Chizuru Yukimura: "Umm, Iba..." I went out into the hallway and immediately looked around for Iba. Chizuru Yukimura: “... Ah.” It seems that Iba was heading towards the courtyard. So I rushed after him. Chizuru Yukimura: “Iba!” When I called out to him, he slowly turned around. Hachiro Iba: “… Chizuru. Is there something you forgot to mention?” Chizuru Yukimura: “Well, um…” "I was a little concerned about how you were acting earlier." "I was wondering if there was something about Itou that was bothering you." Hachiro Iba: “... Oh, you’re talking about that.” Iba looked down as he thought back on it. Chizuru Yukimura: "If you know anything about this case..." "Could you tell Hijikata?" "... I want you to help Okita." Hachiro Iba: “Chizuru…” "Okita sure is lucky. To have someone so kind to you." "... I have to say, I'm a little jealous." Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah, uh, Okita and I don't really have that kind of relationship." Hachiro Iba: "... Of course, I understand." “I just wanted to tease you a little.” After saying that, Iba turned his gaze to the nearby cherry blossoms. ~Picture~ Hachiro Iba: "... I didn't say anything at that time." "Not out of any ill will towards Okita, of course." Chizuru Yukimura: “Yeah… I know.” Iba is not the kind of person who makes decisions based solely on personal feelings. I'm sure there must have been a reason… Hachiro Iba: “Apparently, many of the old Shinsengumi members go drinking at Shimabara when they are off duty.” Chizuru Yukimura: “...?” I'm not an actual member, so I don't know much about the red-light district… Hachiro Iba: “… So what about those who joined later, like Itou and the soldiers who joined him?” “I have heard that they often avoid Shimabara and instead go drinking in Gion.” "When I went to visit Gion for some business, I saw Itou." Chizuru Yukimura: “Really…?” Hachiro Iba: “Itou was away from headquarters while Tani was on his way home from Gion, right?” Chizuru Yukimura: “......!!” Hachiro Iba: "... Of course, there is no real proof." “But what if the person Tani met with in Gion was Itou…?” Looking back… I did hear that the members of the Itou faction were the first to go to the scene after hearing the news of Tani's death. So I can't say for sure that it's impossible. Hachiro Iba: "I’m certain Toshi is also aware that Itou prefers to go out in Gion." "So when he heard that Tani had died near Gion–" "I'm sure he must have thought the same thing as me." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Hachiro Iba: "What if... Itou was the one behind Tani's death?" I was paralyzed by his heavy statement. Hachiro Iba: “–There is a possibility that the Shinsengumi might fall apart." “Furthermore, if Itou turns Okita into a criminal…” "It will no longer be possible to stop the internal division of the Shinsengumi." “Conflict will lead to more conflict, and it can even lead to a bloody battle.” Chizuru Yukimura: “......” After hearing Iba utter those ominous words… I was left completely speechless. Looking at the cherry blossoms vaguely swaying in the darkness of the night, Iba continued talking once again. Hachiro Iba: “… I hope I’m just overthinking things.” Still, foreseeing such a tragic event that might be waiting for us in the future… Iba wore a sad expression. We both were unable to speak for a while… Chizuru Yukimura: "... It's not certain that it will happen, right?" Hachiro Iba: “Chizuru?” Chizuru Yukimura: "We can still somehow stop the Shinsengumi from falling apart, right?" "Please, Iba. Please lend me your strength." “At this rate, Kondo, Hijikata, and Okita…!” Seemingly surprised, Iba stared at me with a stunned expression… Hachiro Iba: "... I really am jealous of you, Okita.” "I can't believe you're working so hard." Chizuru Yukimura: "No, no! Like I said earlier, it’s not like that...!" Hachiro Iba: "... I understand." After saying that, Iba gently took my hand. I could feel his warmth and kindness flow into me from his hands. Hachiro Iba: "... Kondo, Toshi, and Okita are very important people to me." "For their sake, I promise to do whatever I can." Chizuru Yukimura: "... Thank you, Iba." "Hearing those words made me feel relieved." Hachiro Iba: "... I'm happy to hear that." “But I don’t want to be the guy who just makes you feel safe.” Chizuru Yukimura: “What…?” Hachiro Iba: "It's nothing. It's a secret." Chizuru Yukimura: “... A-alri—Achoo!” Perhaps because I finally felt relieved after hearing Iba's words, I ended up sneezing. Hachiro Iba: “Are you alright?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, it's just a little chilly." Hachiro Iba: "I think it's time for you to go back to your room." "Even though it's April, it's still pretty cold at night." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yeah…" The cherry blossoms illuminated by the night light were so beautiful that they made it hard for me to leave. No, maybe it's not just because of the dimly illuminated cherry blossoms… Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru? Is something wrong?" Chizuru Yukimura: “I-it's nothing…” Maybe it was because I felt like I was lost in a dream... Or maybe because I was alone with Iba like this. As I contemplated those thoughts, I returned to my room. ~NEXT SCENE~ And the next day– All the members of Shinsengumi were gathered in the common room. Toshizo Hijikata: "I know some of you are already aware, but I'll repeat it for the rest of you." "Sanjuro Tani, captain of the 7th Division, was killed last night." With Hijikata's heavy words, the entire room once again fell silent. Kanryusai Takeda: "Tani was killed...? Who the hell could have done this?" Kashitaro Itou: "We’re still not certain who did it." "... Saburo, didn’t you receive a report from the soldier who inspected the scene where Tani was killed yesterday?" "Could you share with everyone what you know?" Saburo Miki: "Got it. Tani was found collapsed outside the precincts of Yasaka Shrine." "His body smelled of alcohol, so it's likely that someone attacked him on his way home from Gion." Kanryusai Takeda: "Was he attacked by some random thug?" Saburo Miki: "There didn't seem to be any signs of a fight." "... So it likely might have been the work of an acquaintance." Kashitaro Itou: "According to what I've heard... it seemed that there were quite a few that held a grudge against him." "... Perhaps it was the work of someone in this corps." "It seems that some people were jumping at the opportunity to get rid of him." -After saying that, Itou glanced at Okita. Souji Okita: “...... Oh?” Okita however didn't seem to care and evaded his gaze. Toshizo Hijikata: “The fact that a senior officer was killed is something that should not have happened.” "Especially... without them being able to draw their sword." "Listen up, use whatever means necessary to find the culprits." "Also, don't try to make a mockery out of Tani's death. That's all." Everyone/Soldiers: “Yes sir!” After replying, the soldiers leave the room for their respective duties. Kanryusai Takeda: "This is a big problem, isn’t it Itou? I can't believe that Tani..." Kashitaro Itou: "It certainly is. However, it appeared that he had been causing a lot of problems..." "It seems that he also had plenty of people who were resentful towards him." "So it's not all too surprising looking back on it." Kanryusai Takeda: "Y-You’re right. That certainly appears to be the case." Toshizo Hijikata: "... Itou, I have something I’d like to ask you." Kashitaro Itou: "Oh, what is it?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Regarding Tani... why was it that you were the first to receive the report?" "It should be customary to report this kind of thing to me or the chief first." Kashitaro Itou: "Purely by chance, I suppose?" “It’s inconceivable for an executive to be killed like that.” “Isn’t understandable for the soldier who came to report it to be distressed?” Toshizo Hijikata: "… I see. It’s inconceivable, huh?" In his heart, Hijikata didn't seem satisfied with his answer, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "I apologize for holding you up. In any case, we must find the one behind Tani's murder as soon as possible.” Kashitaro Itou: "Yes, I agree. We can't let the crooks go unnoticed like this." "It can't be helped if neither you nor I are considered qualified to lead the Shinsengumi if this continues." Toshizo Hijikata: “….. Right.” Kashitaro Itou: "Well then, let's go Saburo." Saburo Miki: “Yeah, you got it.” "... With this, it seems that the inner relationships will become a lot more complicated." Kanryusai Takeda: "Um, Itou! Please let me assist you!" Itou left the room with Miki and Takeda. I wonder what Okita thinks about all of this. Chizuru Yukimura: “... Huh?” Okita seemed to have suddenly disappeared from the room. Where did he go? Having a bad feeling about the situation, I decided to leave and look for him. ~NEXT SCENE~ After I went to look for Okita and failed to find him-– I spotted some of the executives gathered together. Shinpachi Nagakura: "I don’t care what anyone says, I'm going! I can't stand them being allowed to do whatever they want like this!" Kai Shimada: "Please calm down, Nagakura. If you rush in, you’ll play right into their hands." Chizuru Yukimura: "Has something happened?" Kai Shimada: "Oh, Yukimura." “... Itou and others wanted to talk about what happened last night." "So they took Okita with them for questioning." Chizuru Yukimura: “What…!?” Shinpachi Nagakura: “Instead of hearing him out, they’re treating him like he’s a criminal.” "If I’d abandon Souji here, I would be disqualified as a member of the Shinsengumi!" Hajime Saito: “That’s why we’re telling you to calm down. Shinpachi Nagakura: “What would you do if someone fabricated some random evidence and he was forced to slit his own stomach?” Hajime Saito: “The commander is present for Souji's interrogation as well.” "So they wouldn’t get away with fabricated evidence." Hearing Saito's words, Nagakura finally regained his composure. Sanosuke Harada: “… Souji didn’t want to cause trouble for Kondo, so that must be why he complied with the interrogation.” "Let's make sure we don't squander his efforts." Kai Shimada: "For the time being, I'm going to ask around near Yasaka Shrine." Genzaburou Inoue: “I will also try to find out more about where Souji was yesterday.” Hajime Saito: Yukimura, please stay at the base." Chizuru Yukimura: “... Alright, I understand" Each of the soldiers went out to clear Okita's suspicions. I also wish there was something I could do to help… Just then. Hachiro Iba: "Hello, Chizuru." Chizuru Yukimura: “Iba…” Hachiro Iba: "You don't seem to be feeling well… Is it because of last night's incident? Chizuru Yukimura: "Yeah. But also–" I explained the situation around Itou and Okita to Iba. Hachiro Iba: “... In other words, Itou and his faction might be trying to trick Okita?” Chizuru Yukimura: “I don’t have any proof though…” "The others are also running around trying to clear Okita's suspicions." Hachiro Iba: "Everyone has known Okita for a long time." "If someone is trying to set him up to the bad guy responsible for killing an executive..." "There is no way they would let that be." Chizuru Yukimura: "... I know, but I'm worried." As we were talking about that. Soldier 1: "Hey, is it true that Captain Tani was killed?" Soldier 2: "Yeah. Moreover, it is said that he was killed by Captain Okita." Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” I shuddered as I overheard the conversation between the soldiers talking a little ways away. I can't believe the rumors about Okita spread to the soldiers so quickly…! Soldier 1: "No way, I heard that the one who killed him was Captain Saito." Soldier 2: "Really? But why would he–" Soldier 1: "I don't know, but..." “Commander Hijikata seemed to think that Captain Tani was an eyesore.” “It seems like Captain Saito will listen to Commander Hijikata's every command.” "Well, anyways, we shouldn’t be talking about this." I felt blood drain from my whole body and my hands and feet turned stone cold. Hachiro Iba: "... Are you okay, Chizuru? You’re as pale as a ghost." Chizuru Yukimura: "No… I'm fine." “More importantly, I must report this to Saito as soon as possible.” Hachiro Iba: "Yeah, you are right." "Do you know where Saito is right now?" Chizuru Yukimura: "He’s not supposed to be on patrol duty today... So I'll ask the members of the 3rd division." Hachiro Iba: "Let's go together." "... Toshi and the others aren’t strangers to me." Chizuru Yukimura: "... Thank you very much." ~NEXT SCENE~ Hajime Saito: "... I see, I understand the situation." Chizuru Yukimura: "Why are there even rumors about Okita spreading among the warriors?" “And so quickly too...” Hajime Saito: "It would be reasonable to assume that someone is spreading rumors." Chizuru Yukimura: “What…!?” Hachiro Iba: "There are people in the Shinsengumi who benefit from others doubting Okita..." "So, it's not out of the question." Chizuru Yukimura: "No way…" Hajime Saito: "The rumors say that either I or Souji is the culprit." "It's as if they're implicitly conveying that it's the commander who is pulling the strings behind the scenes." Hachiro Iba: “So Toshi is their real target.'' Chizuru Yukimura: "If such a rumor spreads among the warriors..." Hachiro Iba: "Toshi will be feared by the soldiers." “They won’t fear him for his strictness in keeping them disciplined like they do now, but rather that they'll fear him with contempt.'' “If that happens, the hearts of all the members may turn away from the Shinsengumi.'' Chizuru Yukimura: “Then, let’s hurry and stop those rumors!” Hajime Saito: "If the source of the rumors is the Itou faction, there's no point in stopping them." Chizuru Yukimura: "But...!" Hachiro Iba: “However if we leave things as they are, wouldn’t they just keep spreading bad rumors about Toshi and you guys?” Hajime Saito: "... I hope something happens so that they won't have time to spread bad rumors." Hachiro Iba: "I see…” Iba thought about it for a while, but eventually… Hachiro Iba: "There's one thing I'm still concerned about. Would you mind lending me a hand, Saito?" Hajime Saito: “What are you concerned about?” Hachiro Iba: "I'll explain that later." “Chizuru.” "Please wait in your room to avoid any danger." Chizuru Yukimura: “But…” While everyone in the Shinsengumi was in dire straits, I was the only one ordered to stand by. I understand that Iba is concerned about me and doesn’t want me to get involved in danger, but… Chizuru Yukimura: "... Is there anything I can do to help out?" “I want to be of assistance to you, in any way I can.” Hachiro Iba: “Chizuru…” "... Saito, would you give me permission to take her outside the compound?" "She went to the trouble of asking us if she could help out." “And right now we need an ally we know we can trust.” Hajime Saito: "... I’ll talk to the commander. Perhaps he’ll allow her to go out." Hachiro Iba: "Thank you, Saito!" Chizuru Yukimura: “Thank you very much! Hajime Saito: “Anyway, you seem to be quite soft on her, Hachiro.” Hachiro Iba: “I-I’m not…!” “It’s just that the number of people who can act for Toshi and others is limited!” "A-and I’m sure it's highly unlikely that she would betray you guys, so...!" Hajime Saito: "I know. But if you keep making excuses, you'll make yourself look even more suspicious." Hachiro Iba: "I’m glad it turned out well for you, Chizuru." Chizuru Yukimura: "It’s all thanks to your help." "I'll do my best not to cause any trouble to you." Hachiro Iba: "That's the spirit." "But don’t worry, I'll definitely protect you." Chizuru Yukimura: “Iba…” Hajime Saito: "Sorry to have kept you waiting. Yukimura has been given permission to go out." “Just to be sure, let me know if you need me to come along as well.” Hachiro Iba: “Yes, actually…” ~NEXT SCENE~ After that, Iba ended up taking us to… Chizuru Yukimura: “Is this… the tea shop in Gion?” Hachiro Iba: "Yes. I heard that Itou often comes here for drinks with some of the warriors." Chizuru Yukimura: "Is that so…" I don't have many opportunities to talk to the warriors from Itou’s faction, so I didn't know about it… Hachiro Iba: “This is the last place Tani visited before he died on the way back to the base.” “I thought that maybe he was drinking here before he died.” Hajime Saito: "I see. You may be right." Chizuru Yukimura: "But… I am a little surprised that you are so knowledgeable about places like this, Iba." Hachiro Iba: “Ah…!” “Just so you know, I don’t usually go to those kinds of stores!” “I've only ever been when I was invited for business entertainment or secret meetings.” “I've only visited this place a few times, but never for anything other than work!” Chizuru Yukimura: “I-I see.” "But you don't have to deny it so much..." Hajime Saito: "The more desperately you try to make excuses, the more suspicious you become." Hachiro Iba: "... I just don't want her to get any weird misconceptions about this." Chizuru Yukimura: "Don’t worry, Iba. I believe you." Since Iba and I are childhood friends– I can kind of understand why he doesn't want to be misunderstood… Hachiro Iba: "... Well then, let's go inside." "Let's first see what the shop staff has to say." Chizuru Yukimura: “Alright.” ~NEXT SCENE~ When we explained the situation to the waitress, the person who appeared to be the owner of the store appeared from the back of the store. Owner: "Yes. Mister Itou from the Shinsengumi often visits our house with his younger brother and some of the other members." Hachiro Iba: "Did they come here last night?" Owner: "Yes, that's right. I'm sure they were the same group from the Shinsengumi..." "Oh yeah. They came here together with a person named Tani." “Anyway, I heard that someone was killed last night… It’s a scary world out there, isn’t it?” Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” Hachiro Iba: “... Chizuru.” Hajime Saito: "It turned out your hunch was correct, Hachiro." Hachiro Iba: "Yes. It was just a guess... and it turned out that my guess was correct." -We looked at each other and shared a nod. Hachiro Iba: “So, what exactly did the two of them talk about when they were here yesterday?” Owner: “Well, they were staying in a private room, so I don’t know.” “He was talking about paying people off midway through the conversation, so I guess they were discussing quite an important topic.'' Hachiro Iba: "I see…" Just before Tani passed away, he secretly met with Itou at this shop. This must be an important clue. Just then. Waitress: "Well, if it isn’t Mister Itou and Mister Miki, please come this way." "I hope you’ll have a comfortable time there." Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” Hachiro Iba: "Excuse me. Is there somewhere we could hide?" Owner: “Ah yes, of course, this way if you would.” Hachiro Iba: "Thank you!" "Chizuru, Saito, let's go!" We hid in an empty room. Eventually, we would hear the footsteps and voices of people from the other side of the hallway. Saburo Miki: "Man, Okita's face from just now was priceless." "I don’t think I’ve ever seen him act so dull before." Kashitaro Itou: "You're being too loud, Saburo. I don't know who might be listening." Saburo Miki: “Don’t the Shinsengumi guys go to Shimabara when they go out?” "So they won’t be able to hear what I say anyway." Waitress: "Please use this room as you please, gentlemen." “Do you have any nominations for female attendants?” Kashitaro Itou: "Well, the other day, Saburo got drunk and said something quite rude to a geisha." “She’d probably turned down our request if we were to send her one.'' Waitress: “That must be difficult.” Kashitaro Itou: "Let's first order some food. I'll think about who we’d like to invite later." Waitress: “Of course, as you wish.” After confirming that the two of them had entered the back room, we decided to plan our next actions. Hajime Saito: "Perhaps other members of the Itou faction will be joining them later on." Hachiro Iba: "... It's possible that they're planning to meet someone other than the Shinsengumi." "But since I'm not a member, I can't say for sure." Hajime Saito: "I'll watch outside. You two will keep a close eye on them." Hachiro Iba: "Got it, we'll take care of it." Saito silently made his way out of the room. Hachiro Iba: "Well then… While we leave the matters outside to Saito–." "Shall we go check on Itou and Miki?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, let's do that." Hachiro Iba: "Please be careful not to make any noise." "If they discover us, that’ll be the end of it." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, I know." ~NEXT SCENE~ We made our way to Itou's room, making sure not to make any sound. I can hear them talking about something from outside the room… Hachiro Iba: “I can faintly hear their voices, but…” "I can't hear what they’re saying." Chizuru Yukimura: "They’re too far away… Hachiro Iba: "Let's open the door just a little so they don't notice." Chizuru Yukimura: "Will that be alright?" Hachiro Iba: "If they’re this far away, I don't think anyone will notice us." "Well then..." Just when Iba was about to put his hand on the shoji door. Hachiro Iba: "! This is bad. Hurry Chizuru, this way!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh...!" Iba moves me away from the shoji door and hides us in the shadows. Just then, I could hear the shoji door being opened. Saburo Miki: “… Huh, was it just my imagination? Kashitaro Itou: "What's wrong, Saburo?" Saburo Miki: "Nothing, I thought I felt someone's presence coming from the hallway..." Kashitaro Itou: “Maybe it was just another guest from the tatami room who happened to be passing by?” Saburo Miki: "No, what I felt was a little different from that..." Kashitaro Itou: “Aren’t maybe you just no edge because of what happened to Tani?” Saburo Miki: "... Maybe." Miki went back inside the room and closed the shoji door. Hachiro Iba: "... Are you alright, Chizuru?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, I'm fine, but..." "It seems Miki noticed our presence." Hachiro Iba: "It seems so…" "It would be troublesome if we were to be discovered, so let's go back to our room for now." Chizuru Yukimura: "Okay" ~NEXT SCENE~ Hachiro Iba: "Well then… what shall we do now?" “They are people who have experienced many struggles in this capital.” "I don't think it will be easy to fool them." Chizuru Yukimura: "Let's talk to the people at the store. They might have some good ideas." Hachiro Iba: "... That might be a good idea." "Please wait a moment. I'll call someone from the shop." ~NEXT SCENE~ After that, Iba called out to one of the waitresses. We immediately explained the situation to her. Hachiro Iba: “... So, is there any way for us to find out the contents of the conversation in the private room?” Waitress: "Even if you ask that..." “The only time we visit the private room is to deliver drinks and food.” Hachiro Iba: “Then, how about we ask the escort who’ll come to the parlor to help us with what we want to know?” “If you’re able to help us, I would greatly appreciate it.” Then the waitress turned to me. Waitress: "Well if you don't have any objections, how about we let this one go up to the private room dressed as a geisha?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh? You mean… me?" Hachiro Iba: “What are you saying?! She, no, he–” Waitress: "You may be wearing a man's kimono, but in truth, you are a woman, are you not?" “If you are concerned about the conversation in the parlor, I think it would be quicker to ask directly.” Chizuru Yukimura: "But I don't have a geisha's kimono, and I don't have makeup..." Waitress: “I think if I ask the Yakata we are acquainted with about that, they will be able to do something about that.” Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Hachiro Iba: "... Let's stop this, Chizuru." “What if they recognize you and realize you’re really a woman?” "You may not be able to continue to stay with the Shinsengumi." Iba is right– If Itou and the others discover my true identity, there will be no going back. Hachiro Iba: "It's okay. I'll take care of the rest." I understand what he's trying to do. However, if we don't come up with anything, Okita and others will be captured! Chizuru Yukimura: "... Could you introduce me to the associate you mentioned earlier?" Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru! This is dangerous!" Chizuru Yukimura: "I understand why you're worried..." "But if we don't find the person who killed Tani–" “Okita, who has been stigmatized, may be held responsible." Hachiro Iba: "That's true… but..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Even if there's one thing I can do to help prevent that from happening… I want to give it everything I have." Hachiro Iba: "... I understand. However, I'm in charge of your safety. There's no way I can let you do this." Iba seems to have a hard time agreeing with the plan. Chizuru Yukimura: "Please, Iba." "I'll make sure that Itou and the others won't realize my true identity." I took Iba's hand and pleaded with him again. Hachiro Iba: "... If you’re really that determined, I guess it can't be helped." "But, please promise me one thing. If you judge it to be dangerous, you will rush to the parlor immediately." Chizuru Yukimura: “Iba...! Thank you so much.” Hachiro Iba: "... However, please keep this in mind." "I'm definitely not in favor of letting you do something like this." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, I know." Waitress: "Alright, let's go meet our associate." Chizuru Yukimura: "Thank you." ~NEXT SCENE~ After that, I finished getting ready at a place called Yakata. I decided to head to the private room where Itou and his friends were staying. Waitress: "Mister Itou, Mister Miki. I brought an escort with me." After saying this, the waitress opens the sliding door with a polite gesture. Kashitaro Itou: “I haven’t sent you a request yet… but you already invited someone?” Waitress: "Indeed. She’s is one of the girls of the house we are acquainted with." "I brought her here because I want the members of the Shinsengumi, who are currently making waves, to patronize her.'' Kashitaro Itou: "I see... She's certainly a young lady with good taste in kimonos and accessories." I greet Itou and the others using the gesture I learned at Yakata. ...So far so good. I don't think anyone recognized me because I wear geisha makeup and have my hair tied up like a woman. Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm Yuzuru. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance." Kashitaro Itou: "The pleasure is all ours." Waitress: “Well then, I’ll excuse myself.” After bowing, the waitress closed the sliding door. Saburo Miki: “What’s this? You called an escort?” Kashitaro Itou: “The shop owner was attentive and called her over for us.'' "Please don't say anything rude." "If the Shinsengumi's reputation gets ruined because of your actions, there's no going back." Saburo Miki: "I know. I'm not THAT drunk yet." After saying that, Miki drank the sake from his sake cup. ... That’s good. So far, it seems like they have yet to realize my true identity. Chizuru Yukimura: "L-Let me pour that for you, sir." Saburo Miki: "Oh, you're a smart one, aren't ya? Well then, here you go." I pour some sake into the cup that Miki held out to me. Kashitaro Itou: "Ah... you don't have to pour any drinks for Saburo, darling." “This kid is a real nuisance when he gets drunk.” Chizuru Yukimura: "I-Is that so? …My apologies, I wasn’t aware..." Saburo Miki: "You're such a worrywart. I won’t make the same mistake as before." Chizuru Yukimura: "... Mister Itou, is it correct that you visited this shop last night as well?" Kashitaro Itou: "Oh my, you’re well informed." Chizuru Yukimura: “I asked the waitress from earlier.” “Since you came here two days in a row, I wanted you to treat you generously.” At that moment– Saburo Miki: "Leave it to me. From now on, I'll come every day." “If things go well this time, we will be able to make even more money.” Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” This is… This might be a good opportunity to ask them about their objectives. Chizuru Yukimura: “What do you mean by ‘hopefully’?” “Will the Lord of Aizu grant you a reward?” Saburo Miki: "That's not it. Kondo and Hijikata are to blame for this incident." “They will no longer be popular with their fellow soldiers, so there’s a chance they will be removed from their current position.” “If that happens, my brother and I will become the new chief and commander.” Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” Kashitaro Itou: "Saburo, stop talking so loudly. You never know who might be listening. Saburo Miki: "That's why you're worrying too much. Those guys won't come to Gion." Kashitaro Itou: "Most of all, you're not ready to be a commander yet." Saburo Miki: "You're being too tough on me, brother. I'd like you to see a little more about my future potential." Chizuru Yukimura: "The Shinsengumi's future chief and commander are both here together..." “You two are some truly impressive people.” Saburo Miki: "Right? You have quite a good eye, don't you?" “If I were to become commander, I would receive a salary that would be incomparable to what it is now.'' "If that happens, I could buy you out. So how about it? What ya think of becoming my woman?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh? Um..." Kashitaro Itou: "It seems that his drinks have really gotten to him, so please don't take him seriously." Chizuru Yukimura: "I-I see..." Even if says so… Miki seems to be serious about them replacing Kondo and Hijikata. Chizuru Yukimura: “Now that I think about it, I heard that a samurai died near here last night...” "Are all the members of the Shinsengumi okay?" Kashitaro Itou: "... Ah, that. It's bothering us too." "I never expected Tani to die so soon." “I would have liked it if he had stirred up a little more turmoil within the squad.” If only I could listen to the story well. We may be able to get to the heart of Tani's case. I have to carefully ask him about the situation so that he doesn't realize that I'm Chizuru Yukimura. Chizuru Yukimura: “... Are you familiar with this person, Mister Itou?” Saburo Miki: "He's the guy we were drinking with at this restaurant last night. That guy had some pretty rotten luck." “I think Okita or Saito probably killed him on Hijikata's instructions anyway.'' Kashitaro Itou: "No, I don't think so. I know Okita said he would kill him on certain occasions." “However Hijikata and the others won't gain anything from getting rid of him like this.'' Saburo Miki: "What? Then why’d you treat Okita like a criminal during the day?" Kashitaro Itou: "Oh, that? …That's because we can take the initiative in the squad from now on." "It will take some time for Okita's suspicions to be cleared." “In the meantime, we need to recruit as many members as possible to our faction.” Saburo Miki: "...I see. You really are a wise man, aren’t you brother?" “You can read the flow of things much better, unlike that naive country bumpkin of a chief.'' Chizuru Yukimura: “......” It seems to be true that Tani visited this store with Itou and others last night… However, it seems that Itou and his friends were not the ones who killed him. So who exactly did it? I’ll… Collect a little more information. Leave before it gets too dangerous.

Check out the translated video! However there’s one thing that has been really bothering me. That's … I'm worried about Okita's condition. Iba’s concerns. What I can do. I can't help but worry about Okita, who was the first to leave the room. After leaving Hijikata's room, I came to Okita's room. Chizuru Yukimura: "Umm... Okita, are you here?" I tried calling out, but there was no answer. It doesn't look like the lights are on, and there's no sign of anyone, so it seems like he's not in the room. Where could he be this late at night? Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” Could it be that he went to kill Ito? As if pushed by a bad feeling, I search around the base. And after a while… Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” -After spotting Okita, I hurriedly followed him. I thought he was going to kill Ito, but… Judging from his gait, it doesn't seem like he's decided where he's going. Is he taking a walk at night? As I was thinking about that, Okita suddenly stopped. And looked vaguely at the moon floating overhead. Souji Okita: "...Hey, Chizuru. You're there, aren't you?" Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” Souji Okita: "You don't have to hide, I know you’re there. So just come out." ... It seems that he noticed that I was following him. Feeling embarrassed, I appear before Okita. Chizuru Yukimura: "... I'm sorry for following you." Souji Okita: "Did you think I was going to kill Ito?" Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "Don't worry, I won't kill him for now… for Kondo's sake." "I actually want to get rid of him right away, but..." "For now, I guess I'll just have to wait for Hijikata’s instructions." After saying that, he placed his hand on the sword on his left hip. Souji Okita: "In any case, I don’t have to take care of Tani anymore." "I should be grateful to the person who got rid of him for me." Chizuru Yukimura: "But what if..." I was hesitant to speak up. However, I can't help but let the words spill out. Chizuru Yukimura: "What if... you are made out to be the culprit?" Souji Okita: "If that happens–" A white light flashes in front of me. It was a vivid display of swordsmanship reminiscent of lightning. The tip of the sword was drawn at the height of a person's throat. Souji Okita: "... I'll kill them. I'll kill every single one who made me out to be a criminal." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Even though it was spring, I felt my whole body freeze. A terrible murderous intent could be felt from just that slight gesture. It speaks to the intensity of the anger that Okita is harboring right now. Souji Okita: "I'll tell you, it's no use stopping it." "No matter who the opponent is, I’ll–" “Ugh…! Cough, cough, cough!” Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…!” I hurriedly tried to run over to Okita, who was coughing violently. However… Souji Okita: "Don't come any closer!" Stunned by his harsh words, I stop in my tracks. ~Picture~ Chizuru Yukimura: "But Okita, that's blood..." The palm of his hand that he held when he coughed… It was bright red. Souji Okita: "I’m fine, so just stay where you are." Chizuru Yukimura: “........” After shaking his big shoulder and taking a few painful breaths… Okita makes a self-deprecating smile. Souji Okita: "... I thought I could defeat any opponent if I really wanted to." "But maybe… I can't beat this disease." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” It's because I've known him to be someone who was full of absolute confidence ever since we first met… It's sad to see the timid expression that faintly appears on his face. Souji Okita: "... But I'm just doing what I can." "While this body can still move." "No... I need to move. For as long as possible, for Kondo's sake." "That's why I endured taking the bitter medicine." "As if it's with konpeito." "But I happened to run out of medicine today." "Aah, I might have gone out alone earlier to get more medicine..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Wait... what are you talking about...?" Okita's face, illuminated by the starlight, was paler than usual… I couldn't help the bad feeling in my gut. At that moment, a thought crossed my mind. Chizuru Yukimura: “...Okita.” "Perhaps the reason you didn't tell me where you were today..." “Was it because… you went to buy medicine?” Then, a smile came to Okita's face. ~Picture~ Souji Okita: “Got it in one.” "If I had known this would happen, I wouldn't have gone out to get the medicine." Chizuru Yukimura: "No, that's a different story! You had to go." Souji Okita: "Don't tell anyone about medicine. It's our little secret… Got it?” Chizuru Yukimura: “But everyone seems to be suspicious of you because of that.” "Wouldn't it be better to just tell them that you went to buy medicine without revealing your illness?" Souji Okita: "If we tell them, I'm sure they'll be able to find out what medicine I went to buy right away." “Yamazaki has a pretty sharp intuition regarding these kinds of things.” Chizuru Yukimura: “But, at this rate, they'll suspect you…!” A sarcastic smile formed on Okita's lips. Souji Okita: "... That's right. That's why I said that I should have taken care of Tani." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Not only is he being devoured by his disease… But Okita is also suspected of murdering Tani. What should I do… Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” "I'm sure everyone will prove your innocence." “So please don’t give up on yourself.” Souji Okita: "And what if I do?" Chizuru Yukimura: "If that happens, I will tell everyone about your illness..." But before I could finish saying that, Okita turned to me. Souji Okita: "... Men. I'm losing my mind." After talking to himself, Okita wiped the blood from his palm with some paper. Souji Okita: “Can you pretend you didn’t see anything just now?” Chizuru Yukimura: "... Of course." "So, you are already in your room now..." Souji Okita: "... I know. You're really a doctor's daughter, aren't you?" "You're always busy with various things, but... it seems that you still have time to worry about me." "Don't worry, I'll go back to my room. ...So you should go back as well.” Although he made a sarcastic remark as usual... I could feel from Okita's words and demeanor that the thorns were missing a little. I felt relieved at that thought. ~NEXT SCENE~ And the next day– All the members of Shinsengumi were gathered in the common room. Toshizo Hijikata: "I know some of you are already aware, but I'll repeat it for the rest of you." "Sanjuro Tani, captain of the 7th Division, was killed last night." With Hijikata's heavy words, the entire room once again fell silent. Kanryusai Takeda: "Tani was killed...? Who the hell could have done this?" Kashitaro Itou: "We’re still not certain who did it." "... Saburo, didn’t you receive a report from the soldier who inspected the scene where Tani was killed yesterday?" "Could you share with everyone what you know?" Saburo Miki: "Got it. Tani was found collapsed outside the precincts of Yasaka Shrine." "His body smelled of alcohol, so it's likely that someone attacked him on his way home from Gion." Kanryusai Takeda: "Was he attacked by some random thug?" Saburo Miki: "There didn't seem to be any signs of a fight." "... So it likely might have been the work of an acquaintance." Kashitaro Itou: "According to what I've heard... it seemed that there were quite a few that held a grudge against him." "... Perhaps it was the work of someone in this corps." "It seems that some people were jumping at the opportunity to get rid of him." -After saying that, Itou glanced at Okita. Souji Okita: “...... Oh?” Okita however didn't seem to care and evaded his gaze. Toshizo Hijikata: “The fact that a senior officer was killed is something that should not have happened.” "Especially... without them being able to draw their sword." "Listen up, use whatever means necessary to find the culprits." "Also, don't try to make a mockery out of Tani's death. That's all." Everyone/Soldiers: “Yes sir!” After replying, the soldiers leave the room for their respective duties. Kanryusai Takeda: "This is a big problem, isn’t it Itou? I can't believe that Tani..." Kashitaro Itou: "It certainly is. However, it appeared that he had been causing a lot of problems..." "It seems that he also had plenty of people who were resentful towards him." "So it's not all too surprising looking back on it." Kanryusai Takeda: "Y-You’re right. That certainly appears to be the case." Toshizo Hijikata: "... Itou, I have something I’d like to ask you." Kashitaro Itou: "Oh, what is it?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Regarding Tani... why was it that you were the first to receive the report?" "It should be customary to report this kind of thing to me or the chief first." Kashitaro Itou: "Purely by chance, I suppose?" “It’s inconceivable for an executive to be killed like that.” “Isn’t understandable for the soldier who came to report it to be distressed?” Toshizo Hijikata: "…I see. It’s inconceivable, huh?" In his heart, Hijikata didn't seem satisfied with Its answer, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "I apologize for holding you up. In any case, we must find the one behind Tani's murder as soon as possible.” Kashitaro Itou: "Yes, I agree. We can't let the crooks go unnoticed like this." "It can't be helped if neither you nor I are considered qualified to lead the Shinsengumi if this continues." Toshizo Hijikata: “….. Right.” Kashitaro Itou: "Well then, let's go Saburo." Saburo Miki: “Yeah, you got it.” "... With this, it seems that the inner relationships will become a lot more complicated." Kanryusai Takeda: "Um, Itou! Please let me assist you!" Itou left the room with Miki and Takeda. I wonder what Okita is doing. When I looked around the room, I noticed that Okita had already disappeared. Where did he go? I had a bad feeling, so I decided to look for Okita. ~NEXT SCENE~ After that, I searched around the compound, but… I couldn't find Okita. But when I went outside… Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah…!” I felt relieved when I finally found him. Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita–” As I was about to call out. Saburo Miki: "... I was just asking where you were going." Souji Okita: "And I just said I won't answer because I don't want to." Saburo Miki: "Why don't you use that head of yours and think a little about whether you're in any position to refuse?" Souji Okita: "What are you getting at? If you're trying to pick a fight, I'd be happy to oblige." Kashitaro Itou: "I apologize, Okito. Saburo is a poor talker and can easily be misunderstood." “However you are aware that you are in a delicate position, right Okita?” Souji Okita: “... Are you suspecting me of killing Tani?” Kashitaro Itou: "Of course, I also don't want to think that one of my fellow Shinsengumi members is responsible." "However, I think you owe it to yourself to prove your innocence." Souji Okita: “......” Kashitaro Itou: "I have a lot of things we'd like to ask you, so could you please be so kind as to come with us? Souji Okita: “No thanks.” Okita tries to walk past the two of them, but— Miki roughly put a hand on his shoulder. Saburo Miki: "Hey, hold it. Where do you think you’re going with that attitude?” Souji Okita: "Can it will ya. I’ve got nothing to say to you guys." Just when Okita's hand almost reaches for the sword on his side. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Oi Souji, what are you doing?!" Nagakura, who saw the situation and realized that things were getting out of hand, rushed over. Souji Okita: “... Tsk” Okita clicked his tongue slightly and lowered his right hand. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Itou, Miki, what's this all about?" Kashitaro Itou: “… We were just trying to ask Okita if he could answer some questions.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "Is that true Souji?" Souji Okita: "... Well, who knows." Shinpachi Nagakura: “Oi, Souji!” Nagakura tries to scold Okita, but… Okita turned away in a deflated manner. Shinpachi Nagakura: "... If you argue with Itou here, you'll only make things worse for yourself." "I get how you feel, but for now, just focus on proving your innocence." “Even if you make a mistake, don’t pull out your sword. got it?” Souji Okita: “... Hmm.” -Before long, Nagakura turned to face Itou and the others. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Is there anything you guys want to ask Souji?" Kashitaro Itou: "Yes, that's right." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Would you mind if Hijikata and I join you? We’re also trying to find the one behind this mess." Saburo Miki: "What are you saying? Why would we—" Kashitaro Itou: "... It's fine, Saburo. We have nothing to complain about." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Thanks for your understanding… Let's go, Souji." ~NEXT SCENE~ Nagakura and the others took Okita to Hijikata's room. And so… Chizuru Yukimura: “... It’s Yukimura. I brought you some tea." Toshizo Hijikata: “Come in.” Chizuru Yukimura: "... Excuse me." I serve freshly brewed tea to everyone in the room. Saburo Miki: “… Okita, how many times are you going to make me ask the same thing?” “Why don’t you just tell us where you were yesterday?” Souji Okita: "I’ve got no reason to answer you. I was off duty yesterday." Kashitaro Itou: "... Okita. Of course, we don't think you truly are the culprit." “However some people will look at the soldiers with suspicion since it has become clear that an acquaintance is responsible for the crime.” "If you don't prove your innocence as soon as possible, people will only grow more suspicious of you." Toshizo Hijikata: "... It's just as Itou says. So what's going on Souji?" Souji Okita: “...... Sigh.” Toshizo Hijikata: “Yukimura, I heard you saw Souji going out yesterday.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah… yes, that’s right. I saw him on his way out..." Toshizo Hijikata: "Did you notice anything out of the ordinary?" In response to Hijikata's question, I tried my best to pull the threads of my memory. Chizuru Yukimura: "No, he seemed the same as usual... I don't think there was anything particularly different about him." Kashitaro Itou: "Are you sure it was him? Could it perhaps have been someone else?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm sure it was Okita." Kashitaro Itou: “Was his kimono stained with blood, or did his sword appear to be used?” Chizuru Yukimura: "... It didn’t appear that way." Saburo Miki: "... Don’t bother, brother. Even if Okita was the culprit," "These guys probably decided to cover this up for their friends anyway." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, what are you getting at?" "Even we can't protect each other at a time like this." Saburo Miki: "... I don't know about that. You could just be saying things." Kashitaro Itou: "Saburo's statement may sound cruel, however… it's true that the testimonies of his friends alone cannot be used as evidence." “If someone from Okita’s outing is willing to testify, then that’s a different story.” “… Unfortunately Okita doesn’t seem to be willing to share where he went yesterday.” Souji Okita: "... I didn't kill Tani, so there's no reason to tell you anything." Kashitaro Itou: "... For now, until the suspicion surrounding him has been cleared or the culprit is found, is it alright to suggest that Okita should be placed in confinement?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Hold on, Itou. Why are you telling Souji to lay low?” “Do you think that you can violate the rules by putting him under suspicion without any proof?” Hijikata and Itou face each other head-on. It is just as Hijikata said, there is no evidence at the moment. If Okita were to be put in confinement, he might go out of control. A strangely tense silence followed for a while. But eventually… Kashitaro Itou: “… Indeed, it’s not very civil to put him under suspicion without evidence.” “Then, how about asking him to refrain from going out for a while?” Toshizo Hijikata: "... How about it, Souji? Any objections?" Souji Okita: "Fine, whatever." Kashitaro Itou: "Thank you. I appreciate your cooperation." "Well then, let's organize an investigation team to look for the culprit. For Okita's sake as well." Souji Okita: “… Go ahead, do whatever you want.” Kashitaro Itou: "Good luck everyone. Let's go, Saburo." Saburo Miki: "Haha, I'm looking forward to how long we can keep playing good friends." Itou and Miki then left the room. After hearing no more footsteps, Nagakura spoke up. Shinpachi Nagakura: "... Jeez, we can't even let our guard down for a second." "If it goes on like this, Souji will be made out to be the one behind Tani's murder." Toshizo Hijikata: "... You’re right. I guess we just have to find the culprit before that happens." Souji Okita: "We’re done here, right? I’ll be going then." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, Souji, wait!" Nagakura panicked and followed after Okita. It feels like a bad idea to leave Okita alone… Chizuru Yukimura: "I'll go too!" -After bowing to Hijikata, I also hurried after Okita. ~NEXT SCENE~ When I returned to the common room, there was– Hachiro Iba: "Ah…! Okita, Shinpachi, and Chizuru." “Did Toshi tell you something? How did it go?” Iba asks with a concerned look on his face. Souji Okita: “...... Damn.” With a defiant gesture, Okita stepped hard on the wooden floor. Shinpachi Nagakura: “… It seems that we don’t just have to keep an eye out for the culprit, but also for Itou’s movements.” Hachiro Iba: "What do you mean by that…?" Heisuke Toudou: "What’s up? Did something happen?" Nagakura explained to everyone who had gathered what had happened. Hachiro Iba: "... I see. So that's what happened." "I’ll assist in any way that I can. Just say the word." Chizuru Yukimura: "... Thanks, Iba." Hachiro Iba: "It's times like these that we have to work together." "First of all, let's see if Tani really visited Gion on the day he died." “I know several shops we could ask for information.” Heisuke Toudou: "You know several shops… Hachiro, you’ve been to Kagai?" Sanosuke Harada: "Who knew, you're always so serious, but it seems even you go out to enjoy yourself." Hachiro Iba: "No... it’s not like that! It's entertainment! I've only been there a few times for entertainment!" Sanosuke Harada: "My bad. Well then, I’ll go and question the members of the 7th program." Heisuke Toudou: "I'll help out too!" Hajime Saito: "After this, I plan to go on patrol." "I’ll ask the residents near Yasaka Shrine if they know anything." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Souji, you'll be staying here. Please try to stay out of trouble." Souji Okita: "Well, we’ll see about that." Hajime Saito: “Souji…” Souji Okita: "I got it. You guys just can’t take a joke." Before long, everyone got ready and left the room. During that time, Nagakura walked up to me… Shinpachi Nagakura: "... Chizuru. Please keep an eye on Souji." Chizuru Yukimura: "I will." After hearing my answer, Nagakura nodded and left as well. Souji Okita: "... Hey, did Shinpachi tell you to keep an eye on me?" Chizuru Yukimura: "H-huh? No, h-he didn’t..." Souji Okita: "You don't have to lie. You're a pretty terrible liar, you know." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "It seems that Itou is going to do as he pleases, as usual..." "I'm going to stay at the base today, so don’t worry." "... I don't want to cause any trouble for Kondo." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "Anyway, you're good at keeping an eye out, so just go do some of your tasks." Chizuru Yukimura: "...... Alright." Okita seems to want to be alone… I respected his feelings and decided to do something else. ~NEXT SCENE~ Chizuru Yukimura: “... That should do it.” After that, when I consulted Inoue… He asked me to air out the spring kimonos that had been stored away. When I change clothes like this, I realize that the season has changed. Well, I think this should be fine… I should ask Inoue if there's anything else I can help with. Just then. Saburo Miki: "... Ah. So this is where you were." Chizuru Yukimura: “Miki…” After what happened earlier, I can't help but tense up a little. Saburo Miki: "Well, this is perfect. I got something I wanna ask you." Chizuru Yukimura: "... What is it?" Saburo Miki: "Did you really see Okita yesterday? You’re not just tryna cover for him?" Chizuru Yukimura: “… It’s just as I said earlier, I really did see him.” Saburo Miki: "Don’t give me that crap." "Okita had a grudge against Tani and had plenty of motives. Who besides him could it possibly be? ” Chizuru Yukimura: "I’m sorry, but I've got something to do." Just as I tried to leave the conversation… Mikki moved to block my way. Saburo Miki: "Hold it. We’re not done here yet." Chizuru Yukimura: "But there's nothing more I can tell you." Saburo Miki: "... I didn’t want to just talk about Okita." "Hey, just who the hell are you?" Chizuru Yukimura: “What do you mean…?” Saburo Miki: "I heard you're here to look for someone." "But... if you're just looking for someone, you don't need to go out of your way to live here, right? You're not even a real member." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Saburo Miki: "You’re hiding something, aren’t ya? Or are you in on something?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah, please let me through…!” Saburo Miki: "If you answer the question properly, I'll let ya through. So hurry up and—" Souji Okita: "Hey, what are you doing there?" “Aren’t you guys getting a little too carried away these days?” Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita!” Saburo Miki: "... You. Just mind your own damn business." Souji Okita: "Sorry, but that’s not happening. Now get away from the kid." Saburo Miki: "There's no reason why I should obey your orders." "I doubt that you're even qualified to be an executive right now." Souji Okita: "... You guys are the only ones who think that way." Saburo Miki: "Who else would get more out of killing Tani than you?" "You didn't like that Tani's younger brother Shuhei was going to be Kondo's successor, right?" Souji Okita: "... It's not like that." Saburo Miki: "Well, I get how you’re feeling. Even though Kondo loves you that much." "It's like you were told that you’re not qualified to be his successor." "How unexpectedly heartless of Kondo. Hahahaha." Souji Okita: “...!” Miki said with a sneer and then proceeded to walk off. Okita tries to chase after him. However, I hurriedly stopped Okita. Chizuru Yukimura: "No Okita, don’t!" Souji Okita: “Shut up, let me go!” "I get it… I really do" "I know he’s trying to make me draw my sword." "Well then, I'll be happy to grant his wish. I’ll take Itou and the others down too." Chizuru Yukimura: "Calm down! Don't let him provoke you!" I'm sure Okita put up with being ridiculed. However— Sinds it was Kondo who was ridiculed and insulted, he must be absolutely furious. Chizuru Yukimura: "This is a trap! If I pull out your sword, there's no going back!" Souji Okita: “I don’t care! Let me go!” He violently shook off my arms. And I… Keep holding on. Call for help.

Check out the translated video! I’ll… Collect a little more information. Leave before it gets too dangerous. I would like to find out more about Tani's death and what Itou and the others were doing last night… But if you stay too long, they might notice who I really am. Chizuru Yukimura: "...I would love to listen to more of your stories, gentleman." “However it's about time for me to move on to the next room.'' Saburo Miki: “What, are you leaving already?” Chizuru Yukimura: "My apologies. Please feel free to call for me again." Kashitaro Itou: "You don’t have to worry about it, darling. Please give my regards to the store." Chizuru Yukimura: "Have a lovely evening." After bowing, I left the room. Chizuru Yukimura: “Phew…” It seems like I somehow managed to go unnoticed. I have to tell Iba and Saito what I heard in the parlor. Just then. Hachiro Iba: "...Chizuru, over here, this way." -Iba takes me to the room next to the one where Itou and Miki were staying. Hachiro Iba: "Are you alright?" “Itou and the others didn’t do anything to you, did they…?” Chizuru Yukimura: "No, I'm fine. They didn't even notice who I was." Hachiro Iba: "I see, that's good..." "I was starting to worry since you were staying in the parlor for quite some time." “If you had stayed gone any longer than you had, I would have stormed in to get you.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Surely you’re exaggerating..." Hachiro Iba: “I’m not exaggerating!” “You know what kind of this place is, right?” Chizuru Yukimura: “I’ve been in Kyoto for a while now, so I kind of get the gist of it.” "People who come to Shimabara and Gion go there to be entertained by geisha and watch them perform..." Hachiro Iba: "That's only how things appear on the surface, however..." “There are a lot of bad men who go to these places and pretend to be drunk and act in a lewd manner.'' Chizuru Yukimura: “I-I’m sorry, had no idea…!” Hachiro Iba: "No, I didn't intend to scold you." "I just wanted to make sure that you were aware of the dangers and be more careful from now on." Chizuru Yukimura: "I see…" Iba seemed to be very worried about me. I feel kind of guilty… Chizuru Yukimura: "...In any case, I learned a lot of useful information." “Shall we go back to the compound and report to Hijikata?” Hachiro Iba: "Yes, of course. But…" Chizuru Yukimura: "Is something the matter?" Hachiro Iba: “…Well, it’s just that when we return, you have to change back into your usual kimono, right?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Of course. I can't go back to the compounds dressed like this." Hachiro Iba: "Ah, that’s right... you do have a point. It’s a bit unfortunate, but I guess it can't be helped..." Chizuru Yukimura: “Iba?” Hachiro Iba: "Oh no, it's nothing." “In any case, I'll talk to Saito. Please change your clothes in the meantime." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, thank you." ~NEXT SCENE~ By the time we had returned, the sun had already set. Toshizo Hijikata: "Good work you three. Please report what you found out." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I gotta ask... but why are we listenin’ to their report out here?" Toshizo Hijikata: “We don’t know who might be listening inside the compounds.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "I don't get it. Why do we have to sneak around like a bunch of criminals?" Sanosuke Harada: “It can’t be helped since the suspicions still remain unresolved.” Toshizo Hijikata: "Harada is right." "...So, Hachiro, how did it go? Did you find out anything?" Hachiro Iba: "Yes. On the day that Tani died, he was out drinking with Itou in Gion." Shinpachi Nagakura: "For real!? So does that mean that Itou’s faction was behind it all?" Souji Okita: "Even though they were treating us as the culprits, they were acting way more suspiciously." Hachiro Iba: “…However, let me share my personal thoughts.” "I don't think it was Itou and the others who killed Tani." Souji Okita: "...Whaddya mean? Are you trying to cover for those guys?" Hajime Saito: "That's not the case. What Hachiro means is that Itou and the others have no reason to kill Tani." Souji Okita: “But if you dig a little deeper, you might find their motives, right?” Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's right. After drinking with Tani, where and what were Itou and his party doing?" Hachiro Iba: "The men themselves said that they headed straight back to the base..." Souji Okita: "They may have returned to the base after killing him." "If we investigate and my guess is right, it will mean that Itou and others are the culprits, right? So let’s—" Toshizo Hijikata: "Hold it. We are prohibited from investigating any further movements of the Itou faction." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Huh!? What do you mean?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...Itou is currently a member of the Shinsengumi." "If you treat someone as a criminal even though there is no clear evidence, the other will also rebel." Hachiro Iba: “I agree with Toshi.” “If the rift between you and the Itou faction deepens any further...” "Sooner or later, the Shinsengumi could end up in a situation where it collapses." Souji Okita: "...Is this an adult solution? I don't get it." Toshizo Hijikata: "In order to keep the Shinsengumi from falling apart, we have no other choice." Souji Okita: "...I understand." “I hope the day when those people will no longer be around will come soon.” After saying this in an unconvinced manner, Okita walks off. Toshizo Hijikata: "Right, I'll take care of the rest. You guys just go about your day as usual." Sanosuke Harada: "You got it." Shinpachi Nagakura: "It's not the ending I hoped for, but… well, guess it can't be helped." After sharing some of his true feelings, Nagakura and the others walk away. When there was no one left in the area, Iba spoke up with a cautious attitude. Hachiro Iba: "...Toshi, do you perhaps know who killed Tani?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...Who knows. I have no idea." Hachiro Iba: "Is that so…" Toshizo Hijikata: "By the way, Hachiro, I got a favor to ask of you." Hachiro Iba: "What is it?" Toshizo Hijikata: “Could you please arrange a meeting with Itou and his faction?” “They don’t seem to have their guards up against you.'' Hachiro Iba: "Alright. I'll take care of it." Toshizo Hijikata: "Thanks for the help." Hachiro Iba: “…I think titles and positions have nothing to do with a person’s worth.” "But they’re certainly useful in times like this." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Just to be safe, Yukimura, please join us during the meeting with Itou and the others." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Okay." A meeting with Itou and others… I wonder how it will turn out. I hope that the confusion that has been going on since Tani passed away will subside even a little. ~NEXT SCENE~ Then, later that night. Hachiro Iba: “Excuse me…” –After hearing the voice, the shoji door opened. Hachiro Iba: "This way please, Itou, Miki." Kashitaro Itou: “I heard that you have something to discuss with us, what is it?” Saburo Miki: "My Division is on patrol duty tomorrow. So please keep it short." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Yes, I’m aware. This won’t take too long." Kashitaro Itou: “Are Saito and Yukimura also going to be present for this?” Toshizo Hijikata: "Yes. Yukimura is here as my page and I asked Saito here to confirm that there are no mistakes in the facts." Saburo Miki: “What facts?” Toshizo Hijikata: "...Itou, I heard you were in Gion the night Tani died." “Tani was probably also with you… but what is the truth?” A suffocating tension filled the room. Itou stared back at Hijikata with a blank look on his face, but eventually… Kashitaro Itou: "...Since it's you, Hijikata, I'm sure you've already figured it out." "Yes, it's true. I had a drink with Tani that night." Saburo Miki: "Brother—!” Kashitaro Itou: "...I guess you think we got Tani drunk and killed him on the way home." “We weren’t the ones who killed Tani…  It’s the honest truth.” “Or are you planning on forcing us to become criminals and commit seppuku?” -Itou glared at Hijikata with a gaze filled with spirit. Toshizo Hijikata: “...*sigh*" Hijikata also looks directly into Itou's gaze. Even though neither of them had even touched their swords. There was a murderous tension in the air as if we were in the middle of a battle. Toshizo Hijikata: “…Calm down. I don't think you guys were behind it." Hachiro Iba: “Indeed. I share the same opinion on the matter as Toshi." "Certainly, Tani was causing problems and put himself in a delicate position." “However Kondo, Toshi, and of course you as well Itou—” “have no real motive to kill Tani in such a manner.” “I think the act was probably the work of someone outside the Shinsengumi and not someone from within.'' Kashitaro Itou: "...So with this, I can assume that Hijikata has the same thoughts on the matter as Iba?" Toshizo Hijikata: "That's right." When Itou heard Hijikata's reply, his expression relaxed, as if relieved. Kashitaro Itou: “...If that's the case, I’m willing to listen.'' Saburo Miki: "Are you sure about this, brother!?" Kashitaro Itou: "If we as senior members fight each other, it will only cause chaos within the unit." "I'm sure that this will also be a relief for Okita." Toshizo Hijikata: "...The cause of Tani's death will be dismissed as unknown." Kashitaro Itou: "That would be wise." "What if it gets out that a Shinsengumi executive is killed by someone and we can't even find out who the culprit is and take revenge–" “We would be looked down upon by the shogunate, the Aizu clan, and of course the Fudan Ronin.” Toshizo Hijikata: "...I don't think that’ll happen now." Kashitaro Itou: "Thank you for your consideration, Commander Hijikata. I look forward to your continued support." "Then let's be off, Saburo." Saburo Miki: “‘Kay…” Miki didn't seem satisfied with this result… And so the two of them left the hall. Eventually, I could no longer hear their footsteps on the other side of the shoji door. Hachiro Iba: "...Toshi, are you satisfied with this?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Yeah, it’s the best solution. For the Shinsengumi, for us...maybe even for Itou.” "Hachiro, and Yukimura." Hachiro Iba: “Yes?” Hearing my name suddenly being called, I felt a bad feeling spread through my chest. Toshizo Hijikata: "...You too, from now on, stay away from the matter surrounding Tani. Don't get any further involved." Hachiro Iba: “...!” Iba stiffens at Hijikata’s sudden warning. However… Hachiro Iba: "...Alright, I understand." “It’s an unsatisfying conclusion, but… I guess we shouldn’t pry any further.” Toshizo Hijikata: "...That's just how it is" "Saito, please take Yukimura back to her room." Hajime Saito: “Understood.” Hachiro Iba: "Wait, I'll go too." Chizuru Yukimura: "Well then, I’ll take my leave." After bowing in front of the shoji door, we left the room. And I'm about to go back to my room. Hachiro Iba: "...I'm sorry for dragging you into this, Chizuru." Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh no, don’t worry about it..." Long before this incident happened, I had been involved in the behind-the-scenes affairs of the Shinsengumi. It was as if I had been drawn into a bottomless pit with no way to emerge. Hajime Saito: "...This is what it means to be part of the Shinsengumi." “You guys should remember that too.” It was a calm, cold warning. Hajime Saito: "Hachiro, I’ll guide you back to your inn." Hachiro Iba: "No, I’ll go on my own..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Please go with Saito, Iba. The capital is dangerous at night." Hachiro Iba: “Chizuru…” "...Alright. Well then, Saito, if you would mind?" Hajime Saito: “Of course.” Hachiro Iba: "...Alright, good night, Chizuru." Chizuru Yukimura: “Yes, good night.” The two of them turned their backs and started walking. I returned to my room and prepared my futon. However, even after lying down on the cool futon… Today’s events kept flashing through my mind, making it difficult for me to fall asleep. Tani's death… And how I, once again, glimpsed the deep darkness surrounding the Shinsengumi. I instinctively feel that it is becoming increasingly impossible to turn back. But still… Hijikata, Okita, Saito, and the other warriors... I'm sure no one is complicit in the Shinsengumi's dark side just because they like it. To keep the Shinsengumi standing... and to maintain the delicate balance between the factions, they have no choice but to do this. This incident made me realize this once again. ~NEXT SCENE~ And so, a few days later. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Men, I'm glad it's sunny! The only time you get to drink during the middle of the day is during cherry blossom season!" Hajime Saito: "You guys seem to be drinking all the time despite the time of day." Shinpachi Nagakura: “But I've always been so stealthy about it!” Heisuke Toudou: “Anyways… Did something go wrong with the preparations?” "Even though we get to hold a cherry blossom viewing, it doesn’t feel the same considering we have to hold it inside of the base!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, yeah, there isn’t much we could do about that... things were a bit complicated." According to Nagakura— It seems that they were originally planning to hold the cherry blossom viewing at Shosei-en, which is next to the base. But perhaps because of the Shinsengumi reputation, it seems that the other party was not willing to give them permission. It seems that there is no choice but to hold the flower viewing at the base. Hachiro Iba: “Well, we still get to enjoy the alcohol here, so don’t blame Shinpachi too much…” Souji Okita: “You probably get invited to a lot of cherry blossom viewings back in Edo, don’t ya.” "There would likely be a lot of women hanging around you, right?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh?” Hachiro Iba: “Okita! Please stop making such misleading remarks!" "Okita is just joking around, Chizuru. So please don't take him seriously." Chizuru Yukimura: “A-Alright…” “Come to think of it, I haven’t seen Itou and the others.” Heisuke Toudou: “I tried to invite him, but he turned me down because he had plans for a poetry party.” Souji Okita: "Well, even if they were to come, they’d only spoil the mood." Genzaburou Inoue: “Well then, now that everyone is here, let’s get started.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well then, to express my gratitude, please lend me a hand, everyone!" As Nagakura cheerfully started the Ippon-jime– Heisuke Toudou: "Oh, that looks good! And this one as well!" Genzaburou Inoue: "There is plenty to go around, so there’s no need to rush." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Heisuke. Nagakura hasn’t finished the Ippon-jime yet..." Heisuke Toudou: "Ah, it’s fine. Let's let Shin do it by himself." "This is not some fancy banquet, we’re just holding a cherry blossom viewing." "And they say I can’t read the room…" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hold it right there! You gotta do the Ippon-jime first!!" Hachiro Iba: “By any chance, did you make these dishes, Chizuru?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. I prepared them together with Inoue and Yamazaki…" Hachiro Iba: "Is that so... I’ll savor these then." Souji Okita: “It looks like Iba would be happy to eat even the roots of the tree if it was a dish prepared by this kid.” Hachiro Iba: "What are you saying…!" “In any case, she wouldn’t serve things like tree roots in the first place.” Souji Okita: "That sounds interesting, so why don't you try making it next time, Chizuru? Chizuru Yukimura: "I can't do that!" “Besides, Iba helped you out a lot this time, didn’t he?” Souji Okita: “… Come to think of it, it was thanks to Iba that my suspicions were cleared this time.” “Alright, I guess I should thank you. … Thanks.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Okita, when you say it like that..." Hachiro Iba: "Sorry Okita, but I couldn’t quite hear you." "Didn't they teach you to express your gratitude clearly when thanking someone?" Souji Okita: "... I take it back" “You really are such a nice guy, aren’t you Iba?” Hachiro Iba: "I'm honored to receive such a compliment." Shinpachi Nagakura: "... What's up with everyone? Why are y'all giving me a hard time?" Sanosuke Harada: "Stop complainin’ and just enjoy your drink. It's Hijikata's treat, isn't it?" Harada pours sake into the cup in Nagakura's hand. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, you're right, but… you could’ve at least let me finish..." Heisuke Toudou: “By the way Sano, you seem to be drinking a lot less than usual." “… You cared about Tani, didn’t you?” Sanosuke Harada: “… The life and death of a person depends on the luck of the moment, and it can’t be helped.” “Anyway, Tani was a fan of lively things.” "So let's drink and make merry, and send our liveliness his way." Heisuke Toudou: "... Yeah" As the warriors were talking… Isami Kondo: "Oh, it seems that everyone already has started drinking." "A lot has happened, but today I want you to enjoy the alcohol and remember those who have passed." Souji Okita: "Kondo, you’re here! This spot is empty, so please have a seat." Isami Kondo: "Thank you, Souji." ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Alright Saito, let's hold a drinking competition! No holding back, a serious drinking match!" Hajime Saito: "Since we got permission from the chief, I’ll accept your challenge.” Hachiro Iba: "Well then, I will be the referee." "Whenever you’re ready, you two." Heisuke Toudou: "... Hey Sano. If I'm not mistaken, wasn't Hajime an extreme heavyweight?" Sanosuke Harada: "Well, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him drunk." Toshizo Hijikata: "You guys, make sure this doesn't affect your duties tomorrow." Isami Kondo: "It's fine, let them be. You should let loose a little as well." After saying that, Kondo looked at the scenery of the party with a slightly lonely look in his eyes. Isami Kondo: “… Usually Tani would be here, too.” Toshizo Hijikata: “......” Isami Kondo: "It's a pity that an old member is no longer with us..." "This may be something we just have to overcome." Toshizo Hijikata: "... He might be better off just because he has someone to see him off like this." "Even we don't know when and where we will die." -While gazing at the cherry blossom petals floating through the wind… -Hijikata and the others narrowed their eyes a little sadly. ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Haa...! No, I can't, my eyes are spinning...!" Hajime Saito: "You're getting sloppy, Shinpachi. Are you ready to surrender?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Are you some kind of monster? You've been drinking that much, but you look totally fine..." Hachiro Iba: “Then, should I declare Saito the winner?” Shinpachi Nagakura: "N-No, not yet! I haven't lost yet!" Hachiro Iba: "As expected of you, Shinpachi. I must emulate that fighting spirit of yours.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "For the time being, let me take a short break. The real match will be after that..." Hachiro Iba: "Alright, let’s take a short break. But please don't push yourself too much." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Okay. After I’ve rested a little, things will get serious! So prepare yourself!" Hajime Saito: "Of course." And that’s how our spring of 1866 came to pass. ~END~

Check out the translated video! I’ll… Collect a little more information. Leave before it gets too dangerous. ...Let's stay a little longer and ask for more details. Chizuru Yukimura: “By the way, Mister Itou, Mister Miki…” Saburo Miki: “......” Chizuru Yukimura: "I-Is something the matter? You’re staring quite intensely..." Saburo Miki: “Hey, have we met somewhere before?” Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh…?” Oh no. I have to think of something. Chizuru Yukimura: "Well, now? I don't think we have." “If I’d ever met someone as notable as you, I don't think I'd forget.'' I try to cover it up by turning my head away and smiling amiably, but… Saburo Miki: "No, I’ve definitely seen you somewhere before. Where did we meet?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah!” He grabbed my chin and forced me to face him. Kashitaro Itou: “Hey, Saburo, stop being so violent...!” Just as Itou chided him. I hear the sound of the sliding door opening, and someone enters the parlor. Standing there was… Hachiro Iba: “Ah, it really is you, Itou.” Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” Hachiro Iba: “I thought I heard a familiar voice.'' Kashitaro Itou: "Oh, Iba." Hachiro Iba: "What a strange coincidence meeting you in a place like this." “Do you come to this store often?” Saburo Miki: "Well… kinda, to a certain extent." Hachiro Iba: "Is that so? I had no idea." "Um, I'm sorry to bother you, but..." "...I'm actually a regular of this girl." Kashitaro Itou: “Oh, is that so?” Hachiro Iba: "I initially didn't plan on coming here today, but..." “I wanted to see her at least once, so I hurried to finish my errand.'' “However, I was about to give up when I heard that she was already entertaining other customers.” “But when I realized that you were the owner of the voice from the parlor she was working in…” “I came here to request her.” “...If you wouldn’t mind, that is.” Iba asked me for my consent in a calm tone. Chizuru Yukimura: “Of course…” “I had no idea you would be coming today.” Miki looked aghast when he saw our exchange. Saburo Miki: "...What, you’re a regular there? What a surprise." Hachiro Iba: “I apologize for acting so rashly.” "It’s just that it's been a long time since I came to Kyoto and visited her." ...As expected of Iba. His actions did not seem to upset them in the slightest. I guess he is trained by interacting with the Shogun's retainers on a daily basis. Hachiro Iba: “…Now that I think about it, this store is close to where Tani died.” “Perhaps he went out drinking around here last night.” “Do you maybe know anything, Itou?” - The moment Tani's name was mentioned, Itou and Miki exchanged an awkward glance. Kashitaro Itou: "...My apologies. I just remembered something I need to take care of, so we'll excuse ourselves." Hachiro Iba: “Oh, you’re leaving already?” Saburo Miki: "That's right. Hey, please call for one of the staff." Chizuru Yukimura: “O-Of course, right away.” After that, Itou and Miki quickly finished the payment. And disappeared from the store as if they were running away. Just then… Hajime Saito: "Itou and Miki just left the store..." “Were you able to discover anything?” Hachiro Iba: "Saito! You've come right on time. Actually..." Iba and I explained what happened earlier in this parlor. Hajime Saito: "...I see" “So Tani came to this store with Itou just before he died?” Hachiro Iba: "Yes, that's right." "We have to let Toshi and the others know about this as soon as possible." Hajime Saito: “I will take care of reporting to the Commander.” “You guys should spend some more time here before returning to the base.” Hachiro Iba: “Indeed, if I return to the base immediately, Itou and the others will probably get suspicious.'' Hajime Saito: "That's right. Hachiro, please take care of Yukimura." Hachiro Iba: "Yes, leave it to me. As long as I'm with her, I won't let any harm come to her." Hajime Saito: "Alright. Well, I’ll see you later." Saito disappeared out of the room. Hachiro Iba: "...We’re going to get in the way of cleaning up, so let's go to the other  room." Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah... okay!" ~NEXT SCENE~ Apparently, Iba was staking out in the room next to Itou’s. Chizuru Yukimura: “I guess you were monitoring the situation in the parlor over there from here.” Hachiro Iba: "Yes, from here, no matter what happens, I could rush to you immediately." Chizuru Yukimura: "I was so focused on the situation at hand that I didn't notice it at all." Hachiro Iba: “You must have been quite nervous.” "...To be honest, I was really nervous as well." Chizuru Yukimura: "Eh? Why..." Hachiro Iba: “If something were to happen to you, I don’t know how I’d ever face Toshi and the others.” "No, even without them..." After saying that, Iba looks at me with a serious look. Hachiro Iba: "If something were to happen to you, I..." "I would never be able to forgive myself." Chizuru Yukimura: “...” Iba's eyes were so serious and direct… Just staring back at him makes me uncomfortable. Chizuru Yukimura: "Is that because you're worried that I’d fail?" Hachiro Iba: "No, that's not it." “You are a very intelligent person, and I don't think you would make any irreversible mistakes.'' "But… despite knowing that  it can’t be helped, I can't forgive myself for letting you do something dangerous." His concern for me was painfully clear. That's why… Chizuru Yukimura: "...You told me that if you judged the situation to be too dangerous you would rush over immediately." “Thanks to your words, I was able to fulfill my role with peace of mind.” Iba's eyes widened as if he was in disbelief. Hachiro Iba: “Really?” "You really felt relieved that I was standing by your side...?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, of course" Hachiro Iba: "...I see. You really believed in me..." "Thank you. I'm beyond happy to hear you say those words." Chizuru Yukimura: "Is that so..." His words seem to convey the joy in his heart… Which made me feel a little embarrassed. Hachiro Iba: “...Saito told me to kill some time here before going back to the base.” “So this is a great opportunity to take it easy.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, but..." Hachiro Iba: "What is it?" Chizuru Yukimura: “What kind of things do you do at a tea shop?” "I've never been to a place like this before... so I don't know." Hachiro Iba: “While I was waiting in this room, I had sweets prepared for me.'' "So for now, let's relax and eat some sweets." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, let's do that." We decided to try the sweets that had been prepared for us. ~Picture~ Hachiro Iba: “Is this a cherry blossom Nerikiri?” “Kyoto sweets look really elaborate and cute, don’t you think?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Yeah. It almost feels like a waste to eat it." As I said this, I slowly take a sip of my tea. Drinking hot tea makes me feel relieved. Hachiro Iba: "...It feels kind of strange." “I can’t believe I’m alone with you like this.” Chizuru Yukimura: “Yeah, you’re right.” "I don't normally get to wear a kimono like this." Putting aside our childhood, ever since we met again in Kyoto… Whenever I meet Iba, I am always dressed as a boy. And right now, I look a little special. Hachiro Iba: "The kimono and that hairstyle… suit you very well." “When I think about how you ended up wearing that kimono, I feel reluctant to simply compliment you.” "Still… it truly suits you." When he looks at me with such clear eyes and gives me an honest compliment… I feel so embarrassed that I don't know what to do with myself. Chizuru Yukimura: "I-I guess it's because of the makeup and kimono." “Everyone at Yakata did a great job making it look beautiful.” Hachiro Iba: "...It's not just that. It's because they had a good canvas to work with." Chizuru Yukimura: “...” Hachiro Iba: “But today is the only time I get to see it.” "Thinking about it makes me feel a little sad..." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Well, of course, I can't dress like this back at the base." Hachiro Iba: "...You’re right." "I don't want to have more potential rivals either." “For now, I’ll think of it as a privilege that only I get.” Chizuru Yukimura: “Potential rivals…” He doesn’t mean that, does he? Though I get the feeling he's only half joking… Hachiro Iba: "...I hope someday you don't have to spend your time dressed as a man." “When that time comes, would you please show me your female form, just for me?” His straight gaze and words seem to pierce my heart. When I look into Iba's eyes, I can't lie about my feelings… Chizuru Yukimura: "...Yes. When the time comes, I'd love to." As I answered him, a smile spread across his face… Hachiro Iba: "...Thank you." "I'm looking forward to that day, Chizuru." Wearing a women's kimono and getting to spend time with Iba... I wonder if a moment like this will ever come again. These were the thoughts I had as I was intoxicated by the strange atmosphere, even though I didn't have a single drop of alcohol. ~NEXT SCENE~ By the time we had returned, the sun had already set. Toshizo Hijikata: "Good work you three. Please report what you found out." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I gotta ask... but why are we listenin’ to their report out here?" Toshizo Hijikata: “We don’t know who might be listening inside the compounds.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "I don't get it. Why do we have to sneak around like a bunch of criminals?" Sanosuke Harada: “It can’t be helped since the suspicions still remain unresolved.” Toshizo Hijikata: "Harada is right." "...So, Hachiro, how did it go? Did you find out anything?" Hachiro Iba: "Yes. On the day that Tani died, he was out drinking with Itou in Gion." Shinpachi Nagakura: "For real!? So does that mean that Itou’s faction was behind it all?" Souji Okita: "Even though they were treating us as the culprits, they were acting way more suspiciously." Hachiro Iba: “…However, let me share my personal thoughts.” "I don't think it was Itou and the others who killed Tani." Souji Okita: "...Whaddya mean? Are you trying to cover for those guys?" Hajime Saito: "That's not the case. What Hachiro means is that Itou and the others have no reason to kill Tani." Souji Okita: “But if you dig a little deeper, you might find their motives, right?” Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's right. After drinking with Tani, where and what were Itou and his party doing?" Hachiro Iba: "The men themselves said that they headed straight back to the base..." Souji Okita: "They may have returned to the base after killing him." "If we investigate and my guess is right, it will mean that Itou and others are the culprits, right? So let’s—" Toshizo Hijikata: "Hold it. We are prohibited from investigating any further movements of the Itou faction." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Huh!? What do you mean?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...Itou is currently a member of the Shinsengumi." "If you treat someone as a criminal even though there is no clear evidence, the other will also rebel." Hachiro Iba: “I agree with Toshi.” “If the rift between you and the Itou faction deepens any further...” "Sooner or later, the Shinsengumi could end up in a situation where it collapses." Souji Okita: "...Is this an adult solution? I don't get it." Toshizo Hijikata: "In order to keep the Shinsengumi from falling apart, we have no other choice." Souji Okita: "...I understand." “I hope the day when those people will no longer be around will come soon.” After saying this in an unconvinced manner, Okita walks off. Toshizo Hijikata: "Right, I'll take care of the rest. You guys just go about your day as usual." Sanosuke Harada: "You got it." Shinpachi Nagakura: "It's not the ending I hoped for, but… well, guess it can't be helped." After sharing some of his true feelings, Nagakura and the others walk away. When there was no one left in the area, Iba spoke up with a cautious attitude. Hachiro Iba: "...Toshi, do you perhaps know who killed Tani?" Toshizo Hijikata: "...Who knows. I have no idea." Hachiro Iba: "Is that so…" Toshizo Hijikata: "By the way, Hachiro, I got a favor to ask of you." Hachiro Iba: "What is it?" Toshizo Hijikata: “Could you please arrange a meeting with Itou and his faction?” “They don’t seem to have their guards up against you.'' Hachiro Iba: "Alright. I'll take care of it." Toshizo Hijikata: "Thanks for the help." Hachiro Iba: “…I think titles and positions have nothing to do with a person’s worth.” "But they’re certainly useful in times like this." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Just to be safe, Yukimura, please join us during the meeting with Itou and the others." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Okay." A meeting with Itou and others… I wonder how it will turn out. I hope that the confusion that has been going on since Tani passed away will subside even a little. ~NEXT SCENE~ Then, later that night. Hachiro Iba: “Excuse me…” –After hearing the voice, the shoji door opened. Hachiro Iba: "This way please, Itou, Miki." Kashitaro Itou: “I heard that you have something to discuss with us, what is it?” Saburo Miki: "My Division is on patrol duty tomorrow. So please keep it short." Toshizo Hijikata: "...Yes, I’m aware. This won’t take too long." Kashitaro Itou: “Are Saito and Yukimura also going to be present for this?” Toshizo Hijikata: "Yes. Yukimura is here as my page and I asked Saito here to confirm that there are no mistakes in the facts." Saburo Miki: “What facts?” Toshizo Hijikata: "...Itou, I heard you were in Gion the night Tani died." “Tani was probably also with you… but what is the truth?” A suffocating tension filled the room. Itou stared back at Hijikata with a blank look, but eventually… Kashitaro Itou: "...Since it's you, Hijikata, I'm sure you've already figured it out." "Yes, it's true. I had a drink with Tani that night." Saburo Miki: "Brother—!” Kashitaro Itou: "...I guess you think we got Tani drunk and killed him on the way home." “We weren’t the ones who killed Tani…  It’s the honest truth.” “Or are you planning on forcing us to become criminals and commit seppuku?” Itou glared at Hijikata with a gaze filled with spirit. Toshizo Hijikata: “...*sigh*" Hijikata also looks directly into Itou's gaze. Even though neither of them had even touched their swords. There was a murderous tension in the air as if we were in the middle of a battle. Toshizo Hijikata: “…Calm down. I don't think you guys were behind it." Hachiro Iba: “Indeed. I share the same opinion on the matter as Toshi." "Certainly, Tani was causing problems and put himself in a delicate position." “However Kondo, Toshi, and of course you as well Itou—” “have no real motive to kill Tani in such a manner.” “I think the act was probably the work of someone outside the Shinsengumi and not someone from within.'' Kashitaro Itou: "...So with this, I can assume that Hijikata has the same thoughts on the matter as Iba?" Toshizo Hijikata: "That's right." When Itou heard Hijikata's reply, his expression relaxed, as if relieved. Kashitaro Itou: “...If that's the case, I’m willing to listen.'' Saburo Miki: "Are you sure about this, brother!?" Kashitaro Itou: "If we as senior members fight each other, it will only cause chaos within the unit." "I'm sure that this will also be a relief for Okita." Toshizo Hijikata: "...The cause of Tani's death will be dismissed as unknown." Kashitaro Itou: "That would be wise." "What if it gets out that someone kills a Shinsengumi executive and we can't even find out who the culprit is and take revenge–" “We would be looked down upon by the shogunate, the Aizu clan, and of course the Fudan Ronin.” Toshizo Hijikata: "...I don't think that’ll happen now." Kashitaro Itou: "Thank you for your consideration, Commander Hijikata. I look forward to your continued support." "Then let's be off, Saburo." Saburo Miki: “‘Kay…” Miki didn't seem satisfied with this result… And so the two of them left the hall. Eventually, I could no longer hear their footsteps on the other side of the shoji door. Hachiro Iba: "...Toshi, are you satisfied with this?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Yeah, it’s the best solution. For the Shinsengumi, for us...maybe even for Itou.” "Hachiro, and Yukimura." Hachiro Iba: “Yes?” Hearing my name suddenly being called, I felt a bad feeling spread through my chest. Toshizo Hijikata: "...You too, from now on, stay away from the matter surrounding Tani. Don't get any further involved." Hachiro Iba: “...!” Iba stiffens at Hijikata’s sudden warning. However… Hachiro Iba: "...Alright, I understand." “It’s an unsatisfying conclusion, but… I guess we shouldn’t pry any further.” Toshizo Hijikata: "...That's just how it is." "Saito, please take Yukimura back to her room." Hajime Saito: “Understood.” Hachiro Iba: "Wait, I'll go too." Chizuru Yukimura: "Well then, I’ll take my leave." After bowing in front of the shoji door, we left the room. And I'm about to go back to my room. Hachiro Iba: "...I'm sorry for dragging you into this, Chizuru." Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh no, don’t worry about it..." Long before this incident happened, I had been involved in the behind-the-scenes affairs of the Shinsengumi. It was as if I had been drawn into a bottomless pit with no way to emerge. Hajime Saito: "...This is what it means to be part of the Shinsengumi." “You guys should remember that too.” It was a calm, cold warning. Hajime Saito: "Hachiro, I’ll guide you back to your inn." Hachiro Iba: "No, I’ll go on my own..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Please go with Saito, Iba. The capital is dangerous at night." Hachiro Iba: “Chizuru…” "...Alright. Well then, Saito, if you would mind?" Hajime Saito: “Of course.” Hachiro Iba: "...Alright, good night, Chizuru." Chizuru Yukimura: “Yes, good night.” The two of them turned their backs and started walking. I returned to my room and prepared my futon. However, even after lying down on the cool futon… Today’s events kept flashing through my mind, making it difficult for me to fall asleep. Tani's death… And how I, once again, glimpsed the deep darkness surrounding the Shinsengumi. I instinctively feel that it is becoming increasingly impossible to turn back. But still… Hijikata, Okita, Saito, and the other warriors... I'm sure no one is complicit in the Shinsengumi's dark side just because they like it. To keep the Shinsengumi standing... and to maintain the delicate balance between the factions, they have no choice but to do this. This incident made me realize this once again. ~NEXT SCENE~ And so, a few days later. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Men, I'm glad it's sunny! The only time you get to drink during the middle of the day is during cherry blossom season!" Hajime Saito: "You guys seem to be drinking all the time despite the time of day." Shinpachi Nagakura: “But I've always been so stealthy about it!” Heisuke Toudou: “Anyways… Did something go wrong with the preparations?” "Even though we get to hold a cherry blossom viewing, it doesn’t feel the same considering we have to hold it inside of the base!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, yeah, there isn’t much we could do about that... things were a bit complicated." According to Nagakura— It seems that they were originally planning to hold the cherry blossom viewing at Shosei-en, which is next to the base. But perhaps because of the Shinsengumi reputation, it seems that the other party was not willing to give them permission. It seems that there is no choice but to hold the flower viewing at the base. Hachiro Iba: “Well, we still get to enjoy the alcohol here, so don’t blame Shinpachi too much…” Souji Okita: “You probably get invited to a lot of cherry blossom viewings back in Edo, don’t ya.” "There would likely be a lot of women hanging around you, right?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh?” Hachiro Iba: “Okita! Please stop making such misleading remarks!" "Okita is just joking around, Chizuru. So please don't take him seriously." Chizuru Yukimura: “A-Alright…” “Come to think of it, I haven’t seen Itou and the others.” Heisuke Toudou: “I tried to invite him, but he turned me down because he had plans for a poetry party.” Souji Okita: "Well, even if they were to come, they’d only spoil the mood." Genzaburou Inoue: “Well then, now that everyone is here, let’s get started.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well then, to express my gratitude, please lend me a hand, everyone!" As Nagakura cheerfully started the Ippon-jime– Heisuke Toudou: "Oh, that looks good! And this one as well!" Genzaburou Inoue: "There is plenty to go around, so there’s no need to rush." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Heisuke. Nagakura hasn’t finished the Ippon-jime yet..." Heisuke Toudou: "Ah, it’s fine. Let's let Shin do it by himself." "This is not some fancy banquet, we’re just holding a cherry blossom viewing." "And they say I can’t read the room…" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hold it right there! You gotta do the Ippon-jime first!!" Hachiro Iba: “By any chance, did you make these dishes, Chizuru?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. I prepared them together with Inoue and Yamazaki…" Hachiro Iba: "Is that so... I’ll savor these then." Souji Okita: “It looks like Iba would be happy to eat even the roots of the tree if it was a dish prepared by this kid.” Hachiro Iba: "What are you saying…!" “In any case, she wouldn’t serve things like tree roots in the first place.” Souji Okita: "That sounds interesting, so why don't you try making it next time, Chizuru? Chizuru Yukimura: "I can't do that!" “Besides, Iba helped you out a lot this time, didn’t he?” Souji Okita: “… Come to think of it, it was thanks to Iba that my suspicions were cleared this time.” “Alright, I guess I should thank you. … Thanks.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Okita, when you say it like that..." Hachiro Iba: "Sorry Okita, but I couldn’t quite hear you." "Didn't they teach you to express your gratitude clearly when thanking someone?" Souji Okita: "... I take it back" “You really are such a nice guy, aren’t you Iba?” Hachiro Iba: "I'm honored to receive such a compliment." Shinpachi Nagakura: "... What's up with everyone? Why are y'all giving me a hard time?" Sanosuke Harada: "Stop complainin’ and just enjoy your drink. It's Hijikata's treat, isn't it?" Harada pours sake into the cup in Nagakura's hand. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, you're right, but… you could’ve at least let me finish..." Heisuke Toudou: “By the way Sano, you seem to be drinking a lot less than usual." “… You cared about Tani, didn’t you?” Sanosuke Harada: “… The life and death of a person depends on the luck of the moment, and it can’t be helped.” “Anyway, Tani was a fan of lively things.” "So let's drink and make merry, and send our liveliness his way." Heisuke Toudou: "... Yeah" As the warriors were talking… Isami Kondo: "Oh, it seems that everyone already has started drinking." "A lot has happened, but today I want you to enjoy the alcohol and remember those who have passed." Souji Okita: "Kondo, you’re here! This spot is empty, so please have a seat." Isami Kondo: "Thank you, Souji." ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Alright Saito, let's hold a drinking competition! No holding back, a serious drinking match!" Hajime Saito: "Since we got permission from the chief, I’ll accept your challenge.” Hachiro Iba: "Well then, I will be the referee." "Whenever you’re ready, you two." Heisuke Toudou: "... Hey Sano. If I'm not mistaken, wasn't Hajime an extreme heavyweight?" Sanosuke Harada: "Well, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him drunk." Toshizo Hijikata: "You guys, make sure this doesn't affect your duties tomorrow." Isami Kondo: "It's fine, let them be. You should let loose a little as well." After saying that, Kondo looked at the scenery of the party with a slightly lonely look in his eyes. Isami Kondo: “… Usually Tani would be here, too.” Toshizo Hijikata: “......” Isami Kondo: "It's a pity that an old member is no longer with us..." "This may be something we just have to overcome." Toshizo Hijikata: "... He might be better off just because he has someone to see him off like this." "Even we don't know when and where we will die." While gazing at the cherry blossom petals floating through the wind… Hijikata and the others narrowed their eyes a little sadly. ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Haa...! No, I can't, my eyes are spinning...!" Hajime Saito: "You're getting sloppy, Shinpachi. Are you ready to surrender?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Are you some kind of monster? You've been drinking that much, but you look totally fine..." Hachiro Iba: “Then, should I declare Saito the winner?” Shinpachi Nagakura: "N-No, not yet! I haven't lost yet!" Hachiro Iba: "As expected of you, Shinpachi. I must emulate that fighting spirit of yours.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "For the time being, let me take a short break. The real match will be after that..." Hachiro Iba: "Alright, let’s take a short break. But please don't push yourself too much." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Okay. After I’ve rested a little, things will get serious! So prepare yourself!" Hajime Saito: "Of course." And that’s how our spring of 1866 came to pass. ~NEXT SCENE~ It had been about an hour since the party started… But the party showed no signs of ending. Sinds Tani just passed away… Everyone may be feeling hesitant about returning to their daily lives after the party is over. Halfway through, we ran out of snacks… So I went back to the kitchen and decided to make some more snacks. Chizuru Yukimura: "Sorry to have kept you waiting. I brought some extra snacks." Hajime Saito: "You’ve been working hard, Yukimura." Saito himself seems to be unfazed after the match, as for Nagakura however… Chizuru Yukimura: "Are you okay, Nagakura?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Ugh... it's no good. I can't drink it anymore..." Chizuru Yukimura: “I brought you a cold towel, so please use it to cool your neck.” Sanosuke Harada: "Leave him be. It’s his own fault for drinking such an unreasonable amount in a short time." Chizuru Yukimura: “Still, I can’t just leave him like this.” “...Huh?” Heisuke Toudou: “What’s wrong?” Chizuru Yukimura: "...Did Iba go home already? I don’t see him anywhere." Heisuke Toudou: "He was around here just a minute ago." Souji Okita: "Iba wouldn't just leave without saying goodbye." Sanosuke Harada: "Maybe he's taking a walk around the neighborhood to sober up? He'll probably be back soon." Chizuru Yukimura: “...” It's true that Iba isn't the type of person who would just quietly go back to the inn without saying goodbye to the others, but still… Chizuru Yukimura: “...I'll go look for him.'' ~NEXT SCENE~ After that, I aimlessly searched around the temple grounds... Eventually, I found Iba staring at a cherry blossom tree. Chizuru Yukimura: “Iba.” When I call out to him, he slowly turns around. Chizuru Yukimura: "You suddenly disappeared, so I thought you had already gone home." "Um... so what are you doing here?" But he remained silent, as he was staring at me. ...Did something happen? As my mind started to wander, he finally spoke up. Hachiro Iba: "...Chizuru. If it's okay with you–" "Would you like to return to Edo with me?" His sudden words catch me off guard… I stood frozen as if struck by lightning. Hachiro Iba: "If you're staying in Kyoto to look for Kodo–" “I will also contact the shogunate and ask them to search for his whereabouts.” Chizuru Yukimura: “...” Hachiro Iba: "...I'm well aware that what I’m saying is something intrusive." "The Shinsengumi seems to have a lot more to offer than I expected." "But even though Toshi and the others are here, I'm still worried about you." Iba is genuinely worried about me… Even during this incident, I could feel it in every detail of his actions. Chizuru Yukimura: "...Thank you, Iba." "But… I still can't leave the Shinsengumi." Hachiro Iba: "Why? If it's about your father–." Chizuru Yukimura: "Of course, I am staying with the Shinsengumi to search for my father." “However my desire to help the Shinsengumi members has also compelled me to stay with them.” "So I can't go back to Edo yet." Hachiro Iba: “Chizuru…” Iba seemed quite disappointed. Eventually, I closed my eyes, trying to hold back the feeling that was welling up in me. Hachiro Iba: "...It seems I was rejected. What a shame." Chizuru Yukimura: “...I’m sorry.” He must have been preparing to say those words just now. But I can't fulfill his wishes at the moment. ...I'm sorry Iba. Eventually, Iba opened his eyes as if he had realized something. Hachiro Iba: "...Don't move Chizuru. Please hold still for a moment." Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh…!?” What’s happening with Iba? As I was thinking about this, he suddenly started to close the distance between us. As he moved closer… I could clearly see his curly hair, fair features, and clear eyes. What is he planning to do? As I was confused by his sudden actions, he reached out his hand… ~Picture~ Hachiro Iba: "You have a cherry blossom petal stuck to you." With a polite gesture, he gently plucked it off. Chizuru Yukimura: “Oh, thank you." I was so embarrassed about strange things I was about to imagine… I couldn’t bring myself to look Iba in the eyes. Hachiro Iba: "...As for what happened earlier, you don't have to apologize." "If I wasn't in the position I'm in now, I might have joined everyone in the Shinsengumi." Chizuru Yukimura: "...Yes. I understand exactly how you feel." In Edo, he can only watch the activities of the Shinsengumi's members from a distance... This must be extremely frustrating for Iba. Still, he accepts his position and destiny and cooperates as much as he can. Eventually, his gaze shifts to the flowers blooming beautifully under the blue sky... Hachiro Iba: “When I look at these cherry blossoms, I remember the way you looked earlier… when you were dressed like a geisha.'' Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” Hachiro Iba: "I guess you'll have to spend some time dressing as a man." "But if... if you get to dress like a woman again." “I would love it if you would show it to me.” Iba's words must have a special meaning... I don't think he’s saying he wants to see it just for the fun of it. As I wondered what kind of person Iba is to me... I couldn't come up with a clear answer yet. At the very least, I wanted to let him know that I don't see his kindness as a nuisance. Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright. When the time comes, I will.” As I gave him my honest reply, Iba narrowed his eyes happily. Hachiro Iba: "...Now that this matter is settled, I can leave Kyoto tomorrow without troubled thoughts." "I will definitely come back to Kyoto again. So please wait for me." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, I'll be waiting.” His thoughts are so straightforward and sincere... I wonder if one day I'll be able to respond to them. If I find my father and there is no reason for me to be here, then maybe... Keeping my thoughts to myself, I stood beside Iba as I looked at the beautiful cherry blossoms that looked like something out of a dream. ~END~

Check out the translated video! And I… Keep holding on. Call for help. Chizuru Yukimura: "Someone... is there anyone? It's getting out of hand!" As I called out for help… Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, what’s going on?!" Okita raised his head in the direction of the voice. Souji Okita: "... Oh it’s you, Shinpachi." "It's only at times like this that I get bothered one after another." Chizuru Yukimura: “Nagakura…!” Shinpachi Nagakura: "Calm down! Were you planning to go over to Itou's place?" "But, if you do that, you’d be jumping straight into his trap." Souji Okita: "... I know. That's why I’m not going." Shinpachi Nagakura: "That's why I told you not to go... Huh?" Souji Okita: "It's true... I don't want people like that to do what they want." "I was thinking of getting rid of them, but I decided not to." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, you mean that?" Souji Okita: "How very skeptical of you... I just decided against it, but do you want me to go, or something?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "No, no, you did the right thing by not going! Right, Chizuru?!" Chizuru Yukimura: "... Huh? Ah, yes! That's right!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "I see, so you were the one who persuaded Souji, weren’t you?" "Souji, you should show her some gratitude. If it wasn’t for her, you would have been forced to commit seppuku by now for violation of the rules." Souji Okita: "... Good grief. You’re pretty meddlesome, aren’t you Shinpachi." After saying that in a relieved, lethargic tone, Okita walked away. Chizuru Yukimura: "Is Okita going to be oke?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "No one could stop him if he really wanted to kill someone." "I wonder if it's okay to stop thinking like this." "Anyway, I'm glad you called for me." "Well, you were very helpful in stopping Souji. Thanks for that." "We'll take care of the rest, so it's fine for you to go back to your room." After Nagakura said that, he turned to chase after Okita. ... But I'm really glad nothing actually happened. ~NEXT SCENE~ Later that night. Toshizo Hijikata: "... We've discovered Tani's actions before he died." "Let’s start with the people he met in Gion just before he died— Hachiro if you would." Hachiro Iba: "Right. We questioned the owner of the shop where Tani had been drinking that day..." “Apparently he visited the shop with the Shinsengumi’s deputy commander, Kashitaro Ito, and several others.” Heisuke Toudou: “So the person Tani was drinking with before he died… was it Itou!?” “You haven’t said a thing about this to us, have you?” Kashitaro Itou: "... Oh, that might be the case." Hachiro Iba: “The shop owner and Nakai said they remember that day very well.” "They said they wouldn't mind coming here to testify if necessary." Kashitaro Itou: "... Please hold on a minute." "You’re making it sound as if we deliberately hid what happened that day." Toshizo Hijikata: “Is that not the case?” Kashitaro Itou: “I was just waiting for an appropriate moment to speak up, hoping to clear this misunderstanding." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Really? So didn't you get Tani drunk so that he would be unable to resist as you cut him down on the way home?" Kanryusai Takeda: "Nagakura, watch your tongue. What are you even basing that on?" Kashitaro Itou: “It’s true that I went out drinking with Tani that day…” "We were however first to leave the store, and after that, we went straight back to the base. Isn’t that right, Saburo?" Saburo Miki: "That’s right. I don't mind having the people of the store testifying.” “Even the members of the squad should remember when you and I came back." Judging from Itou and Miki's confident statements… It seems clear that they have solid evidence that could clear any doubts surrounding them. Toshizo Hijikata: "... It seems that we need to investigate this incident more thoroughly in the future." Saburo Miki: "What about Okita? We still don't know where you went yesterday, do we?" Toshizo Hijikata: "In regards to that, Saito did another thorough check of Tani's body." "If would, Saito." Hajime Saito: "Yes. The fatal wound was probably a vertical stab wound in the pit of the stomach." "If the assailant was a practitioner of Tennen Rishin-ryu like Souji, the thrust should be at the throat, and the direction of the blade would have been horizontal." "If however, you have enough evidence to overturn this argument, it would be a different story..." Saburo Miki: “Are ya trying to cover up with your pals again? Anyone could have done it if they changed their fighting style!” Kashitaro Itou: "... That’s enough, Saburo." Saburo Miki: "Why? Anyone–" Kashitaro Itou: "... You’re correct, anyone could have done it." "So let's wrap things up." After scolding Miki, Itou turned to face Hijikata and the others once more. Kashitaro Itou: "... The suspicions surrounding Okita have been cleared. It’s a relief for us as well." Souji Okita: "Is that all you have to say after treating someone like crap?" Kashitaro Itou: "That’s because you always say such crude things like 'killing' or 'taking care of' someone." “Especially these last few days, it seems like you were bringing it up a lot more often.” Toshizo Hijikata: "By the way Itou, what were you discussing with Tani in Gion?" Kashitaro Itou: “… Well, for example, the rumors about Tani's younger brother, Shuhei, possibly being adopted by the chief.” "Chief Kondo seemed to be quite troubled by them, so I told Tani to be more careful." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I see." Kashitaro Itou: "But I swear to you by the gods, it was not us who killed Tani." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I know that much. It's not like I doubted you guys." Susumu Yamazaki: "Commander. We will soon have to hold Tani's funeral, however..." “What will be the public statement about the cause of his death?” Toshizo Hijikata: "Hmm, let’s see..." Kashitaro Itou: "We can't tell them that a rogue ronin was able to cut down a Shinsengumi executive." Toshizo Hijikata: "... So we have no other choice but to tell them he died a sudden death of unknown causes." Kashitaro Itou: "That seems to be the only solution." Toshizo Hijikata: "From now on, don't say anything unnecessary to the soldiers regarding Tani." "Alright then, this concludes today’s discussion." One by one, the soldiers left the room as the meeting was disbanded. Kashitaro Itou: "... I'm glad your name has been cleared, Okita." Souji Okita: "Giving up already?" "It was a good opportunity to get rid of me." Kanryusai Takeda: "I've been thinking about this for quite some time, Okita." “Aren't you being a bit too rude to Itou?" “Itou is the deputy commander, he has a higher position than you, the captain of the 1st division.” Kashitaro Itou: "It's fine. Okita just likes to joke around." Kanryusai Takeda: "However… what would the others think." Kashitaro Itou: "Well then, let's go, Saburo." Saburo Miki: "... Hmpf. You've got off lucky this time, Okita." Kanryusai Takeda: "Please wait, Itou! So, after this–" After Itou and the others disappeared, Harada called out to Hijikata. Sanosuke Harada: "... So what's going on? Hijikata." "Was Itou really not responsible for Tani's death?" Toshizo Hijikata: "... He's not." "If Itou was really behind Tani's death, he should be able to get around a little better." Hachiro Iba: "I think so too." "No matter how you look at it, it would’ve been a pretty sloppy job if he was behind it." Heisuke Toudou: “Yeah you’re right, Itou wouldn’t have left behind any evidence of having gone drinking in Gion.” Hajime Saito: "Besides, Itou and the others wouldn’t gain anything from killing Tani." Sanosuke Harada: "... I see. So, at the moment we got no idea who is really responsible?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "It's a bit of an unsatisfying conclusion, isn't it?" “I thought Tani was a pain in the ass, but not enough of a pain to want him dead…” Sanosuke Harada: "... Yeah." “He acted like an annoying older brother, but he wasn’t that bad of a guy.” Everyone seems to have their own thoughts about Tan’s actions during his lifetime. Still, it seems that each of them was mourning his passing in their own way. Harada, who had known Tani the longest, wore a particularly complicated expression on his face. Toshizo Hijikata: "In any case, your guys' hard work cleared the suspicions surrounding Souji." "I'll let you drink as much as you want, whether at Shimabara or anywhere else." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Really!? Are you for real, Hijikata!?" Heisuke Toudou: "Yahoo! We can’t let this opportunity pass us by, now can we?" Everyone left the room with much enthusiasm. The only ones left behind were… Toshizo Hijikata: "What is it, Souji? Are you still sulking?" Souji Okita: "... Not at all. However, even though Tani is finally gone…" "I just thought that the weird people that hang around Kondo will never stay away." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” Toshizo Hijikata: "I understand how you feel... But you can't kill Itou without a good reason or evidence." "What if Kondo gets blamed by the Aizu clan for it, how will you take responsibility?" Souji Okita: "Responsibility, responsibility, that’s all you ever talk about." "How long are you going to let Itou do whatever he pleases?" Toshizo Hijikata: "... If this is about him, I'll do something about it, so just wait until then." Souji Okita: "Really? You’re not just lying to me to keep me in tow, right?" Toshizo Hijikata: "I'm not lying. Right now, I'm just waiting for the right opportunity." Souji Okita: "If you take too long, I'll get impatient and take care of Itou myself." Chizuru Yukimura: "You shouldn't say things like that, Okita." Souji Okita: "Ah man, now even this kid is scolding me." Okita may have been joking, but… His demeanor and facial expressions were strangely refreshing. Hachiro Iba: “The fact that Tani passed away will make the matter surrounding the adoption unclear.” "Now I can rest easy too." Chizuru Yukimura: "But... if it wasn’t Itou and the others, then who did kill Tani?" Souji Okita: "... Who knows. Hijikata might know something." Hachiro Iba: "... Toshi, do you know anything?" Hijikata wore a difficult expression for a while, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "Come on, he probably was cut down by a passing ronin." "... I got to go back to work. You guys should get going too." Souji Okita: "What, do you really not know?" "But even if you did know, I don't think you would tell me." Toshizo Hijikata: "I just told you I don't know. Now, get out of here." Souji Okita: "Fine. I’ll be leaving then." Hachiro Iba: "I will be taking my leave as well, Toshi." Chizuru Yukimura: "... Excuse me" It may not have a satisfying conclusion, but… The incident seemed to have resolved itself. ~NEXT SCENE~ And so, a few days later. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Men, I'm glad it's sunny! The only time you get to drink during the middle of the day is during cherry blossom season!" Hajime Saito: "You guys seem to be drinking all the time despite the time of day." Shinpachi Nagakura: “But I've always been so stealthy about it!” Heisuke Toudou: “Anyways… Did something go wrong with the preparations?” "Even though we get to hold a cherry blossom viewing, it doesn’t feel the same considering we have to hold it inside of the base!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, yeah, there isn’t much we could do about that... things were a bit complicated." According to Nagakura— It seems that they were originally planning to hold the cherry blossom viewing at Shosei-en, which is next to the base. But perhaps because of the Shinsengumi reputation, it seems that the other party was not willing to give them permission. It seems that there is no choice but to hold the flower viewing at the base. Hachiro Iba: “Well, we still get to enjoy the alcohol here, so don’t blame Shinpachi too much…” Souji Okita: “You probably get invited to a lot of cherry blossom viewings back in Edo, don’t ya.” "There would likely be a lot of women hanging around you, right?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh?” Hachiro Iba: “Okita! Please stop making such misleading remarks!" "Okita is just joking around, Chizuru. So please don't take him seriously." Chizuru Yukimura: “A-Alright…” “Come to think of it, I haven’t seen Itou and the others.” Heisuke Toudou: “I tried to invite him, but he turned me down because he had plans for a poetry party.” Souji Okita: "Well, even if they were to come, they’d only spoil the mood." Genzaburou Inoue: “Well then, now that everyone is here, let’s get started.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well then, to express my gratitude, please lend me a hand, everyone!" As Nagakura cheerfully started the Ippon-jime– Heisuke Toudou: "Oh, that looks good! And this one as well!" Genzaburou Inoue: "There is plenty to go around, so there’s no need to rush." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Heisuke. Nagakura hasn’t finished the Ippon-jime yet..." Heisuke Toudou: "Ah, it’s fine. Let's let Shin do it by himself." "This is not some fancy banquet, we’re just holding a cherry blossom viewing." "And they say I can’t read the room…" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hold it right there! You gotta do the Ippon-jime first!!" Hachiro Iba: “By any chance, did you make these dishes, Chizuru?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. I prepared them together with Inoue and Yamazaki…" Hachiro Iba: "Is that so... I’ll savor these then." Souji Okita: “It looks like Iba would be happy to eat even the roots of the tree if it was a dish prepared by this kid.” Hachiro Iba: "What are you saying…!" “In any case, she wouldn’t serve things like tree roots in the first place.” Souji Okita: "That sounds interesting, so why don't you try making it next time, Chizuru? Chizuru Yukimura: "I can't do that!" “Besides, Iba helped you out a lot this time, didn’t he?” Souji Okita: “… Come to think of it, it was thanks to Iba that my suspicions were cleared this time.” “Alright, I guess I should thank you. … Thanks.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Okita, when you say it like that..." Hachiro Iba: "Sorry Okita, but I couldn’t quite hear you." "Didn't they teach you to express your gratitude clearly when thanking someone?" Souji Okita: "... I take it back" “You really are such a nice guy, aren’t you Iba?” Hachiro Iba: "I'm honored to receive such a compliment." Shinpachi Nagakura: "... What's up with everyone? Why are y'all giving me a hard time?" Sanosuke Harada: "Stop complainin’ and just enjoy your drink. It's Hijikata's treat, isn't it?" Harada pours sake into the cup in Nagakura's hand. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, you're right, but… you could’ve at least let me finish..." Heisuke Toudou: “By the way Sano, you seem to be drinking a lot less than usual." “… You cared about Tani, didn’t you?” Sanosuke Harada: “… The life and death of a person depends on the luck of the moment, and it can’t be helped.” “Anyway, Tani was a fan of lively things.” "So let's drink and make merry, and send our liveliness his way." Heisuke Toudou: "... Yeah" As the warriors were talking… Isami Kondo: "Oh, it seems that everyone already has started drinking." "A lot has happened, but today I want you to enjoy the alcohol and remember those who have passed." Souji Okita: "Kondo, you’re here! This spot is empty, so please have a seat." Isami Kondo: "Thank you, Souji." ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Alright Saito, let's hold a drinking competition! No holding back, a serious drinking match!" Hajime Saito: "Since we got permission from the chief, I’ll accept your challenge.” Hachiro Iba: "Well then, I will be the referee." "Whenever you’re ready, you two." Heisuke Toudou: "... Hey Sano. If I'm not mistaken, wasn't Hajime an extreme heavyweight?" Sanosuke Harada: "Well, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him drunk." Toshizo Hijikata: "You guys, make sure this doesn't affect your duties tomorrow." Isami Kondo: "It's fine, let them be. You should let loose a little as well." After saying that, Kondo looked at the scenery of the party with a slightly lonely look in his eyes. Isami Kondo: “… Usually Tani would be here, too.” Toshizo Hijikata: “......” Isami Kondo: "It's a pity that an old member is no longer with us..." "This may be something we just have to overcome." Toshizo Hijikata: "... He might be better off just because he has someone to see him off like this." "Even we don't know when and where we will die." While gazing at the cherry blossom petals floating through the wind… Hijikata and the others narrowed their eyes a little sadly. ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Haa...! No, I can't, my eyes are spinning...!" Hajime Saito: "You're getting sloppy, Shinpachi. Are you ready to surrender?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Are you some kind of monster? You've been drinking that much, but you look totally fine..." Hachiro Iba: “Then, should I declare Saito the winner?” Shinpachi Nagakura: "N-No, not yet! I haven't lost yet!" Hachiro Iba: "As expected of you, Shinpachi. I must emulate that fighting spirit of yours.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "For the time being, let me take a short break. The real match will be after that..." Hachiro Iba: "Alright, let’s take a short break. But please don't push yourself too much." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Okay. After I’ve rested a little, things will get serious! So prepare yourself!" Hajime Saito: "Of course." And that’s how our spring of 1866 came to pass. ~END~

Check out the translated video! And I… Keep holding on. Call for help. Chizuru Yukimura: “...No. I won’t let go.” Souji Okita: "If you keep getting in my way, I'll kill you too. You got that?" Okita's eyes were filled with murderous intent. Just looking at them sends chills down my spine. But still… Chizuru Yukimura: “... I don’t care." "If you want to kill Miki, you have to cut me down first." Souji Okita: "Fine, as you wish— I'll cut you down first." Okita's hand moved to hold the hilt of his sword– He was ready to strike. His bloodlust instinctively made my body go numb with fear. However, as the tension was building. Souji Okita: “... Why” "... Why didn't you move out of the way?" Okita hadn't drawn his sword. Instead, he looked at me with a mix of anger and sadness on his face. Souji Okita: "If you don't back off... I can't move forward." “I’m sick and tired of this…” "We come to Kyoto and set up the Roshigumi..." "But ever since they joined the Shinsengumi, those guys have just been getting in the way." "Even though the Shinsengumi was only formed to realize Kondo's dream…" "And now, some ignorant assholes are messing around with Kondo's Shinsengumi as they please." "Spreading strange rumors, getting people all riled up ... Damaging Kondo's reputation..." "So I'll put an end to this mess." Chizuru Yukimura: "Then... you'll have to kill me fir—" Souji Okita: "There's no way I’d kill you!" "If it were my adversary, if it were an enemy of the Shinsengumi, I’d kill them without hesitation." "But you... you're not our enemy..." "It may be frustrating... but still, you're just trying to help me..." "Even I get that much." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” Souji Okita: "There's no way I could kill you like that... I just can't..." At that moment, I lost all strength and squatted down on the spot. Souji Okita: "... Hey, are you alright?" Chizuru Yukimura: "D-Don't worry, I’m fine. I'm relieved..." Souji Okita: "You're a pretty weird kid, you know that?" "If I’d known you'd thrown yourself in front of me just to lose all your strength, and fall to the floor like this–" "I could have just left you behind and gone after them." "Looking back on it now, I feel like I’ve lost my mind." "Haa... Who would have thought that I’d ever be detained by someone like you." "But well... looking at you now, I’ve got trouble believing that." Chizuru Yukimura: “I’m sorry…” Okita looked a little embarrassed and looked away, but before long… ~Picture~ Souji Okita: "... No, you got no reason to apologize." "You seriously stopped me…" After muttering embarrassingly, Okita put his hand on my head. And then… Souji Okita: "Thank you, Chizuru." He said with a bashful expression. Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah…” Souji Okita: "What's wrong? You’re looking pretty goofy." Chizuru Yukimura: "I have a goofy look on my face?” Souji Okita: "Yeah, you're making quite a funny and cute expression." Chizuru Yukimura: "You're not praising me, are you?" Souji Okita: "I'm just calling ‘em as I see ‘em." "So, why are you making that face?" Chizuru Yukimura: "... Because you thanked me." "I never thought you'd ever thank me, so..." Souji Okita: "Is that right? Want me to take it back?" Chizuru Yukimura: “W-Why would you bother to take it back!?” Souji Okita: "… Just kidding." "You saved my ass earlier. So thanks..." Chizuru Yukimura: "... You won't take it back?" Souji Okita: "You want me to?” Chizuru Yukimura: "No! ... I won't forget." Souji Okita: "Do as you like." "... Well then, that's it. It's time to get up." "Or do you need me to lend you a hand?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I-I'll be fine!" Souji Okita: “Really, well that’s good.” His attitude is still the same as usual… Still, I'm really glad that things didn’t get out of hand. Souji Okita: "Well then, let's head back." Chizuru Yukimura: “Right!” Souji Okita: "But absolutely no mention of me going out to buy medicine, you got that?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, I know… I'm sure the others will be able to find some evidence." Souji Okita: “Well… I hope they can find something useful.” And so, Okita, who had returned to his normal self, and I started walking towards the base. ~NEXT SCENE~ Later that night. Toshizo Hijikata: "... We've discovered Tani's actions before he died." "Let’s start with the people he met in Gion just before he died— Hachiro if you would." Hachiro Iba: "Right. We questioned the owner of the shop where Tani had been drinking that day..." “Apparently he visited the shop with the Shinsengumi’s deputy commander, Kashitaro Ito, and several others.” Heisuke Toudou: “So the person Tani was drinking with before he died… was it Itou!?” “You haven’t said a thing about this to us, have you?” Kashitaro Itou: "... Oh, that might be the case." Hachiro Iba: “The shop owner and Nakai said they remember that day very well.” "They said they wouldn't mind coming here to testify if necessary." Kashitaro Itou: "... Please hold on a minute." "You’re making it sound as if we deliberately hid what happened that day." Toshizo Hijikata: “Is that not the case?” Kashitaro Itou: I was just waiting for an appropriate moment to speak up, hoping to clear this misunderstanding." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Really? So didn't you get Tani drunk so that he would be unable to resist as you cut him down on the way home?" Kanryusai Takeda: "Nagakura, watch your tongue. What are you even basing that on?" Kashitaro Itou: “It’s true that I went out drinking with Tani that day…” "We were however first to leave the store, and after that, we went straight back to the base. Isn’t that right, Saburo?" Saburo Miki: "That’s right. I don't mind having the people of the store testifying.” “Even the members of the squad should remember when you and I came back." Judging from Itou and Miki's confident statements… It seems clear that they have solid evidence that could clear any doubts surrounding them. Toshizo Hijikata: "... It seems that we need to investigate this incident more thoroughly in the future." Saburo Miki: "What about Okita? We still don't know where you went yesterday, do we?" Toshizo Hijikata: "In regards to that, Saito did another thorough check of Tani's body." "If would, Saito." Hajime Saito: "Yes. The fatal wound was probably a vertical stab wound in the pit of the stomach." "If the assailant was a practitioner of Tennen Rishin-ryu like Souji, the thrust should be at the throat, and the direction of the blade would have been horizontal." "If however, you have enough evidence to overturn this argument, it would be a different story..." Saburo Miki: “Are ya trying to cover up with your pals again? Anyone could have done it if they changed their fighting style!” Kashitaro Itou: "... That’s enough, Saburo." Saburo Miki: "Why? Anyone–" Kashitaro Itou: "... You’re correct, anyone could have done it." "So let's wrap things up." After scolding Miki, Itou turned to face Hijikata and the others once more. Kashitaro Itou: "... The suspicions surrounding Okita have been cleared. It’s a relief for us as well." Souji Okita: "Is that all you have to say after treating someone like crap?" Kashitaro Itou: "That’s because you always say such crude things like 'killing' or 'taking care of' someone." “Especially these last few days, it seems like you were bringing it up a lot more often.” Toshizo Hijikata: "By the way Itou, what were you discussing with Tani in Gion?" Kashitaro Itou: “… Well, for example, the rumors about Tani's younger brother, Shuhei, possibly being adopted by the chief.” "Chief Kondo seemed to be quite troubled by them, so I told Tani to be more careful." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I see." Kashitaro Itou: "But I swear to you by the gods, it was not us who killed Tani." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I know that much. It's not like I doubted you guys." Susumu Yamazaki: "Commander. We will soon have to hold Tani's funeral, however..." “What will be the public statement about the cause of his death?” Toshizo Hijikata: "Hmm, let’s see..." Kashitaro Itou: "We can't tell them that a rogue ronin was able to cut down a Shinsengumi executive." Toshizo Hijikata: "... So we have no other choice but to tell them he died a sudden death of unknown causes." Kashitaro Itou: "That seems to be the only solution." Toshizo Hijikata: "From now on, don't say anything unnecessary to the soldiers regarding Tani." "Alright then, this concludes today’s discussion." One by one, the soldiers left the room as the meeting was disbanded. Kashitaro Itou: "... I'm glad your name has been cleared, Okita." Souji Okita: "Giving up already?" "It was a good opportunity to get rid of me." Kanryusai Takeda: "I've been thinking about this for quite some time, Okita." “Aren't you being a bit too rude to Itou?" “Itou is the deputy commander, he has a higher position than you, the captain of the 1st division.” Kashitaro Itou: "It's fine. Okita just likes to joke around." Kanryusai Takeda: "However… what would the others think." Kashitaro Itou: "Well then, let's go, Saburo." Saburo Miki: "... Hmpf. You've got off lucky this time, Okita." Kanryusai Takeda: "Please wait, Itou! So, after this–" After Itou and the others disappeared, Harada called out to Hijikata. Sanosuke Harada: "... So what's going on? Hijikata." "Was Itou really not responsible for Tani's death?" Toshizo Hijikata: "... He's not." "If Itou was really behind Tani's death, he should be able to get around a little better." Hachiro Iba: "I think so too." "No matter how you look at it, it would’ve been a pretty sloppy job if he was behind it." Heisuke Toudou: “Yeah you’re right, Itou wouldn’t have left behind any evidence of having gone drinking in Gion.” Hajime Saito: "Besides, Itou and the others wouldn’t gain anything from killing Tani." Sanosuke Harada: "... I see. So, at the moment we got no idea who is really responsible?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "It's a bit of an unsatisfying conclusion, isn't it?" “I thought Tani was a pain in the ass, but not enough of a pain to want him dead…” Sanosuke Harada: "... Yeah." “He acted like an annoying older brother, but he wasn’t that bad of a guy.” Everyone seems to have their own thoughts about Tan’s actions during his lifetime. Still, it seems that each of them was mourning his passing in their own way. Harada, who had known Tani the longest, wore a particularly complicated expression on his face. Toshizo Hijikata: "In any case, your guys' hard work cleared the suspicions surrounding Souji." "I'll let you drink as much as you want, whether at Shimabara or anywhere else." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Really!? Are you for real, Hijikata!?" Heisuke Toudou: "Yahoo! We can’t let this opportunity pass us by, now can we?" Everyone left the room with much enthusiasm. The only ones left behind were… Toshizo Hijikata: "What is it, Souji? Are you still sulking?" Souji Okita: "... Not at all. However, even though Tani is finally gone…" "I just thought that the weird people that hang around Kondo will never stay away." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” Toshizo Hijikata: "I understand how you feel... But you can't kill Itou without a good reason or evidence." "What if Kondo gets blamed by the Aizu clan for it, how will you take responsibility?" Souji Okita: "Responsibility, responsibility, that’s all you ever talk about." "How long are you going to let Itou do whatever he pleases?" Toshizo Hijikata: "... If this is about him, I'll do something about it, so just wait until then." Souji Okita: "Really? You’re not just lying to me to keep me in tow, right?" Toshizo Hijikata: "I'm not lying. Right now, I'm just waiting for the right opportunity." Souji Okita: "If you take too long, I'll get impatient and take care of Itou myself." Chizuru Yukimura: "You shouldn't say things like that, Okita." Souji Okita: "Ah man, now even this kid is scolding me." Okita may have been joking, but… His demeanor and facial expressions were strangely refreshing. Hachiro Iba: “The fact that Tani passed away will make the matter surrounding the adoption unclear.” "Now I can rest easy too." Chizuru Yukimura: "But... if it wasn’t Itou and the others, then who did kill Tani?" Souji Okita: "... Who knows. Hijikata might know something." Hachiro Iba: "... Toshi, do you know anything?" Hijikata wore a difficult expression for a while, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "Come on, he probably was cut down by a passing ronin." "... I got to go back to work. You guys should get going too." Souji Okita: "What, do you really not know?" "But even if you did know, I don't think you would tell me." Toshizo Hijikata: "I just told you I don't know. Now, get out of here." Souji Okita: "Fine. I’ll be leaving then." Hachiro Iba: "I will be taking my leave as well, Toshi." Chizuru Yukimura: "... Excuse me" It may not have a satisfying conclusion, but… The incident seemed to have resolved itself. ~NEXT SCENE~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Men, I'm glad it's sunny! The only time you get to drink during the middle of the day is during cherry blossom season!" Hajime Saito: "You guys seem to be drinking all the time despite the time of day." Shinpachi Nagakura: “But I've always been so stealthy about it!” Heisuke Toudou: “Anyways… Did something go wrong with the preparations?” "Even though we get to hold a cherry blossom viewing, it doesn’t feel the same considering we have to hold it inside of the base!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, yeah, there isn’t much we could do about that... things were a bit complicated." According to Nagakura— It seems that they were originally planning to hold the cherry blossom viewing at Shosei-en, which is next to the base. But perhaps because of the Shinsengumi reputation, it seems that the other party was not willing to give them permission. It seems that there is no choice but to hold the flower viewing at the base. Hachiro Iba: “Well, we still get to enjoy the alcohol here, so don’t blame Shinpachi too much…” Souji Okita: “You probably get invited to a lot of cherry blossom viewings back in Edo, don’t ya.” "There would likely be a lot of women hanging around you, right?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh?” Hachiro Iba: “Okita! Please stop making such misleading remarks!" "Okita is just joking around, Chizuru. So please don't take him seriously." Chizuru Yukimura: “A-Alright…” “Come to think of it, I haven’t seen Itou and the others.” Heisuke Toudou: “I tried to invite him, but he turned me down because he had plans for a poetry party.” Souji Okita: "Well, even if they were to come, they’d only spoil the mood." Genzaburou Inoue: “Well then, now that everyone is here, let’s get started.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well then, to express my gratitude, please lend me a hand, everyone!" As Nagakura cheerfully started the Ippon-jime– Heisuke Toudou: "Oh, that looks good! And this one as well!" Genzaburou Inoue: "There is plenty to go around, so there’s no need to rush." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Heisuke. Nagakura hasn’t finished the Ippon-jime yet..." Heisuke Toudou: "Ah, it’s fine. Let's let Shin do it by himself." "This is not some fancy banquet, we’re just holding a cherry blossom viewing." "And they say I can’t read the room…" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hold it right there! You gotta do the Ippon-jime first!!" Hachiro Iba: “By any chance, did you make these dishes, Chizuru?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. I prepared them together with Inoue and Yamazaki…" Hachiro Iba: "Is that so... I’ll savor these then." Souji Okita: “It looks like Iba would be happy to eat even the roots of the tree if it was a dish prepared by this kid.” Hachiro Iba: "What are you saying…!" “In any case, she wouldn’t serve things like tree roots in the first place.” Souji Okita: "That sounds interesting, so why don't you try making it next time, Chizuru? Chizuru Yukimura: "I can't do that!" “Besides, Iba helped you out a lot this time, didn’t he?” Souji Okita: “… Come to think of it, it was thanks to Iba that my suspicions were cleared this time.” “Alright, I guess I should thank you. … Thanks.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Okita, when you say it like that..." Hachiro Iba: "Sorry Okita, but I couldn’t quite hear you." "Didn't they teach you to express your gratitude clearly when thanking someone?" Souji Okita: "... I take it back" “You really are such a nice guy, aren’t you Iba?” Hachiro Iba: "I'm honored to receive such a compliment." Shinpachi Nagakura: "... What's up with everyone? Why are y'all giving me a hard time?" Sanosuke Harada: "Stop complainin’ and just enjoy your drink. It's Hijikata's treat, isn't it?" Harada pours sake into the cup in Nagakura's hand. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, you're right, but… you could’ve at least let me finish..." Heisuke Toudou: “By the way Sano, you seem to be drinking a lot less than usual." “… You cared about Tani, didn’t you?” Sanosuke Harada: “… The life and death of a person depends on the luck of the moment, and it can’t be helped.” “Anyway, Tani was a fan of lively things.” "So let's drink and make merry, and send our liveliness his way." Heisuke Toudou: "... Yeah" -As the warriors were talking… Isami Kondo: "Oh, it seems that everyone already has started drinking." "A lot has happened, but today I want you to enjoy the alcohol and remember those who have passed." Souji Okita: "Kondo, you’re here! This spot is empty, so please have a seat." Isami Kondo: "Thank you, Souji." ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Alright Saito, let's hold a drinking competition! No holding back, a serious drinking match!" Hajime Saito: "Since we got permission from the chief, I’ll accept your challenge.” Hachiro Iba: "Well then, I will be the referee." "Whenever you’re ready, you two." Heisuke Toudou: "... Hey Sano. If I'm not mistaken, wasn't Hajime an extreme heavyweight?" Sanosuke Harada: "Well, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him drunk." Toshizo Hijikata: "You guys, make sure this doesn't affect your duties tomorrow." Isami Kondo: "It's fine, let them be. You should let loose a little as well." After saying that, Kondo looked at the scenery of the party with a slightly lonely look in his eyes. Isami Kondo: “… Usually Tani would be here, too.” Toshizo Hijikata: “......” Isami Kondo: "It's a pity that an old member is no longer with us..." "This may be something we just have to overcome." Toshizo Hijikata: "... He might be better off just because he has someone to see him off like this." "Even we don't know when and where we will die." While gazing at the cherry blossom petals floating through the wind… Hijikata and the others narrowed their eyes a little sadly. ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Haa...! No, I can't, my eyes are spinning...!" Hajime Saito: "You're getting sloppy, Shinpachi. Are you ready to surrender?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Are you some kind of monster? You've been drinking that much, but you look totally fine..." Hachiro Iba: “Then, should I declare Saito the winner?” Shinpachi Nagakura: "N-No, not yet! I haven't lost yet!" Hachiro Iba: "As expected of you, Shinpachi. I must emulate that fighting spirit of yours.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "For the time being, let me take a short break. The real match will be after that..." Hachiro Iba: "Alright, let’s take a short break. But please don't push yourself too much." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Okay. After I’ve rested a little, things will get serious! So prepare yourself!" Hajime Saito: "Of course." -And that’s how our spring of 1866 came to pass. ~NEXT SCENE~ Later that night. Shinpachi Nagakura: “Zzz… zzz… zzz…” Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... Nagakura, are you okay?" "You'll catch a cold if you’ll keep sleeping here." Hajime Saito: "I'll take care of the rest. You should go back to your room." Chizuru Yukimura: "But…" Hajime Saito: "I always take care of this." Chizuru Yukimura: "... I understand. Well then, thank you very much." As I thanked Saito. Chizuru Yukimura: “Speaking of which, have you seen Okita?” I noticed that Okita had disappeared before I knew it. Hajime Saito: "I haven’t seen him... but he may have gone back to his room." Chizuru Yukimura: "I'll go look for him." After that, I tried looking for Okita in his room, but… He didn't seem to be back in his room. So where did he go? Thinking that, I headed towards the courtyard… Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah…!” I spotted Okita and stopped in my tracks. He was quietly staring at the cherry blossoms with a melancholy expression. Maybe he’s thinking of something. In that case, it would be better not to disturb him… Thinking that, I tried to sneak away. Souji Okita: "... You don't have to run away, Chizuru." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "I won't threaten to kill you. Just come over here for a bit." After being called out, I could no longer hide. Chizuru Yukimura: “… Were you watching the cherry blossoms?” Souji Okita: "I was just lost in thought while looking at the cherry blossoms, I guess." "... I've been thinking a lot about this incident." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "If I were alone, I probably wouldn't have listened to anyone." "I might have killed Tani and Itou without hesitation." "... I wouldn’t even have thought about what would happen to Kondo after that." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” Even though Okita is always messing around and telling bad jokes… I felt that it was very unusual for him to reflect on himself like that. Souji Okita: "This time I had Hajime, Shinpachi, Iba... and even Hijikata backing me up." “I had a lot of people helping me out.” “Among all of them, one person kept me from going out of control… and that was you.” Chizuru Yukimura: “Me…?” Souji Okita: "Because you were holding me down." Normally, this would be the moment where he would make some teasing remarks… But judging from the look in his eyes, he wasn’t trying to make fun of me. Before long, Okita shifts his gaze to the mysterious cherry blossoms that bloom in the darkness of the night… Souji Okita: "... I have to become even stronger. Not only with the sword but with my heart as well." "If I don't become strong, I won't be able to protect Kondo and the Shinsengumi... and even you." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” Those heartfelt words somehow made me feel a little depressed… Is it because I know about the disease that nestles inside his chest? ~Picture~ Souji Okita: "...You know something, Chizuru." Chizuru Yukimura: "What is it?" The cherry blossom petals fluttered and scattered with a vague glow. It felt like I was trapped inside a dream-like illusion. Souji Okita: "Cherry blossoms look pretty good on you." Chizuru Yukimura: "... You think so?" Souji Okita: "Yeah. I think they suit you– like the way they flutter." I blink a few times in surprise at his unexpected remark. Chizuru Yukimura: "Well I think that..." '–cherry blossoms suit you way better.’ is what I was trying to say… However, the dark undertone contained within those words discouraged me from uttering them out loud. Souji Okita: "... I know what you were trying to say just now." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Souji Okita: "You don't have to worry about me." "Because I know my own body better than anyone else." He made it sound as if he had come to terms with the disease nesting inside of him, but… There is no way that Okita would’ve truly accepted his illness. If he really had accepted his own death… He wouldn't have gone out to buy medicine for his cough while being spotted by the other soldiers. Chizuru Yukimura: "... I'm not worried about that." ~Picture~ Chizuru Yukimura: "Because I believe in your strength… and the advancement of medical technology." "I'm sure you’ll be able to watch the cherry blossoms like this next year and the year after." Okita stared at me with a surprised look on his face, but… ~Picture~ Souji Okita: “... I see.” "Well, you're a doctor's daughter after all, so you must be right." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yep. That's why, let's watch the cherry blossoms together from now on." Souji Okita: "As long as you’re willing to watch them with me." No one knows what tomorrow will bring… Even so, I wanted to believe in tomorrow with Okita... and everybody else in the Shinsengumi. ~END~

Check out the translated video! Chizuru Yukimura: "Then..." Ask Okita. Ask Iba. Ask Inoue. Chizuru Yukimura: "Then Inoue, if you don’t mind." Genzaburou Inoue: "Me? Of course I don't mind." Hachiro Iba: "I see... So you choose Inoue..." Souji Okita: "Hold up, Iba. Why are you so depressed?" Hachiro Iba: "What are you talking about?! I'm not..." Genzaburou Inoue: "Don’t worry, you two. I'm just trying to keep Tani away." Hachiro Iba: "Well, that's certainly true." Souji Okita: "Well then, I’ll be off. Come on, Iba, you should be off too." Hachiro Iba: "Please be careful. If something happens, please call us immediately!" Chizuru Yukimura: "I’ll be staying here at the headquarters, so I’ll probably be okay, I think..." "But thank you for worrying about me." Okita dragged Iba along, who still seemed to be trying to say something. Genzaburou Inoue: "Now then, let's do something that Tani won't be alarmed by." Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah… right!" ~NEXT SCENE~ After that, Inoue and I decided to do the laundry together. Genzaburou Inoue: “The weather is really nice today. It looks like the laundry will dry in no time.” Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Genzaburou Inoue: "Yukimura? What the matter? Inoue called out to me and I snapped out of my thoughts. Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah...! I'm sorry, I was lost in thought..." I hurriedly started to hang the laundry. However, there were still some things weighing heavily on my mind, and I ended up not watching what I was doing. Tani wasn’t the only one on my mind… Chizuru Yukimura: “... Why is it that Okita doesn't want to succeed Kondo? ” Genzaburou Inoue: "I’m not sure... Souji has always had a lot of respect for Isami." "Yabusaka isn’t supposed to be the one to succeed him, but... I guess he has something to think about." Chizuru Yukimura: "To think about, huh..." Genzaburou Inoue: “Souji's older sister's husband, Rintaro, is actually a relative of mine." Chizuru Yukimura: "Is that so… I had no idea." Genzaburou Inoue: "Right. When Souji’s parents died, he was still very young and couldn’t take over the family." “Inevitably, his sister got married and his brother-in-law inherited the Okita family.” "At that time, I hoped they could pave the way for Souji to succeed the Okita family..." “…But before that could happen, Mitsu and his brother-in-law had a child.” “There is a big chance that that child will inherit the Okita family in the future.” “Souji is aware of this as well, so he won’t even say that he will succeed the Okita family.” Chizuru Yukimura: "That’s..." Genzaburou Inoue: "...Yes, as you can see, Souji is in a complicated position." "Maybe this has something to do with why Souji doesn't want to be adopted by Isamu." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” Hijikata and others seem to think that if Okita becomes Kondo's adopted child, all of this will be resolved. However it appears that things aren't going to go so easily. Those thoughts were swirling around in my mind. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey, you two! Nice weather we’re having today, perfect for doing the laundry!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Nagakura, Saito!" Genzaburou Inoue: "You came at just the right moment. I have something I wanted to ask you two." Hajime Saito: "What is it you want to ask?" Inoue explained the situation to Nagakura and Saito. Hajime Saito: “…I see. Tani did that, huh." Shinpachi Nagakura: "So you want us to keep an eye on him so that he doesn't do anything unnecessary." Genzaburou Inoue: "And if you could, keep an eye on Souji as well. Who knows what he might do." Hajime Saito: "Understood. We'll keep an eye out for you." Genzaburou Inoue: "That's reassuring to hear. I’m counting on you two." I really hope this matter will be resolved soon... ~NEXT SCENE~ The following day, the sky looked rather dreary. In the meantime... All the captains who were aware of the Shinsengumi’s secret, were gathered in the common room. Chizuru Yukimura: "I brought you some tea." The soldiers who were gathered all had a tense look on their faces. Chizuru Yukimura: “There’s your tea.” I quickly distributed the tea so as not to disturb their discussion. It seems that everybody has already been made aware of Tani's actions. Everyone kept quiet and had grim looks on their faces. Hachiro Iba: "... Thank you, Chizuru." Souji Okita: “Why are you here so early in the morning, Iba?” "Can’t you keep your nose out of our business?" Hachiro Iba: "I'm here as a representative of the shogunate, so..." "So I can't return to Edo until Tani's case is resolved." "... Besides, she is involved in this as well." Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, Hachiro, save the conversation for your own time." Hachiro Iba: "Right, I'm sorry." Toshizo Hijikata: “First up… Saito and Shinpachi, you guys were watching Tani yesterday.” "Please tell us your report." Hajime Saito: "During my investigation, I discovered that Tani has indeed been keeping an eye on Yukimura." "He also seemed to be trying to investigate what was going on inside the garrison." "When I called out to him, he dodged the question and ran away." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I saw Tani go to Itou's room in the middle of the night." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I see. Did you see anyone else enter the room?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "It was just him." "He and Itou were in there for quite some time... I think they were talking for about half an hour." Toshizo Hijikata: "Itou, huh... It would be troublesome if he were to investigate what’s in the depths of the garrison." Sanosuke Harada: "Before he starts sniffing around any further, wouldn't it be better if we tried to explain the dinner tray to Tani?" Toshizo Hijikata: "That may not be a bad idea... But what explanation would satisfy Tani and stop him from sneaking around?" Heisuke Toudou: “Wouldn’t it be fine if we told him she was just carrying food for the sick and resting soldiers?” Souji Okita: "It would be nice if he were to believe that." Sanosuke Harada: "How about we tell em Shinpachi has secretly been eating two servings in order to grow his muscles?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "There's no way Tani is gonna believe that." "But if you wanna let me eat for two, I won’t complain." Souji Okita: “… By the way Chizuru, when Tani confronted you, wasn’t that near Hijikata’s room?” Chizuru Yukimura: "That right, his room wasn't that far away." Souji Okita: “Then why don’t we tell him that Hijikata has been having extra meals?” Chizuru Yukimura: “What!?” Hachiro Iba: "Wait a minute, Okita. I don’t think–" Toshizo Hijikata: "Tani isn’t stupid enough to believe that. Start thinking about this more seriously." Souji Okita: "Aww, but I really like that idea, so please push through." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, Hijikata is the Commander. It wouldn't be too strange if he were to have two meals." Toshizo Hijikata: "You assholes, saying whatever you want..." ...... I wonder, would Tani really believe such an odd explanation? Even I was starting to grow anxious. Hachiro Iba: “… Are you really okay with using that excuse?” "If it comes to light that you were having two servings behind everybody else's backs" “Wouldn’t your reputation suffer greatly among the soldiers?” Souji Okita: “Hijikata already has a pretty crappy reputation, so this wouldn’t really change much.” "It would be a trivial matter compared to if the truth were to come to light." Hijikata looked unconvinced and folded his arms, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "... I guess it can't be helped. Let’s go with that form now." “But you guys better try and come up with a proper excuse!” "... Harada. Can you call Tani here?" Sanosuke Harada: “You got it.” Harada then left the common room. Will Tani believe the excuse that we had come up with? My anxiety didn’t subside… After a while, the shoji door opened again. Sanosuke Harada: "It seems that Tani is out at the moment." Toshizo Hijikata: "He’s not off-duty today... Do you know where he went?" Sanosuke Harada: "I haven’t a clue. I tried to ask the members of the 7th Division, but he didn't tell them where he was going." Shinpachi Nagakura: “Maybe he ran away because he heard Souji is out to kill him?” Souji Okita: "If that were true, it would make things pretty boring. I was just thinking of how I would cut him." Toshizo Hijikata: "... Harada, when Tani returns, tell him to come to see me." Sanosuke Harada: "Got it, I’ll let him know." After that, they disbanded and everyone returned to their respective duties. ~NEXT SCENE~ However that night, things were moving in an unexpected direction. I was clearing up after dinner. Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru, let me lend you a hand." “Should I take this try and put it over there?” Chizuru Yukimura: "I-It’s fine...! I couldn’t possibly let you help me..." Hachiro Iba: "Please don't worry about it. It’s my way of thanking you for the delicious dinner." Chizuru Yukimura: “But…” Hachiro Iba: "When in Rome, you do as the Romans do, so please let me help out." -Iba seems to be in a good mood today… -Is he that happy to be able to eat with the others? Souji Okita: "... Oh, it seems you’ve already had dinner." Chizuru Yukimura: "Okita..." "Have you ever been out? Where did you go…?" I'm pretty sure I saw Okita heading out somewhere during the day. Souji Okita: "Well, I'm off duty today, so I just went out for a walk." Chizuru Yukimura: "If you're hungry, I can prepare you something." Souji Okita: "No need, I’m not really hungry." Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright…" Sanosuke Harada: "... I wonder what happened to Tani. It's almost time for curfew." Ever since the meeting ended, Harada has been waiting for Tani to return… But it seems that in the end, he still hadn’t returned to the headquarters. I'm sure Tani is well aware that breaking curfew could end in honorable suicide… At that moment, the shoji door opened… Susumu Yamazaki: "... Saito, Harada, Nagakura. Please follow me to the commander's room." Sanosuke Harada: "Why? Did something happen?" Hajime Saito: “I’m sure the commander will give us the details when we get there.” Susumu Yamazaki: “Okita, please join us as well.” Souji Okita: "... It looks like something pretty serious has happened." "I hope I can finally get permission to kill Tani." But Yamazaki didn't respond to Okita's joke. And just like that, they left the room. Hachiro Iba: "... I wonder what happened." “Judging by the look of things, it seems that something rather serious has happened.” Chizuru Yukimura: "I hope nothing bad has happened..." Just as I finished saying that. Susumu Yamazaki: “Iba, could you please follow me as well?” “And you too, Yukimura.” Hachiro Iba: “So you want us to join too. ……Alright, I understand.” Maybe this has something to do with Tani… We headed for Hijikata's room with a bad feeling in our hearts. ~NEXT SCENE~ Toshizo Hijikata: "I'm sorry for calling you all out here so out of the blue." "... Tani has been killed. It seems to have happened a little earlier today." -The moment Hijikata uttered the words, it felt like the entire room froze over. -Then, everyone's gaze turned to Okita. Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, is this your doing? Didn’t I tell you to restrain yourself?" Souji Okita: "It wasn’t me." "Where the hell did you find him? How was he killed?" Susumu Yamazaki: “He appears to have been cut down by someone as he was leaving the Yasaka Shrine.” "His corpse smelled of alcohol... So he was probably on his way back from Gion." "The people who found his body contacted the guard, and the members of the Itou faction were the first to investigate the scene." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yamazaki, were you able to check Tani's body?" Susumu Yamazaki: "Yes, I received a report from the corpsman. I decided that I should inform you first." “It appears that the autopsy of the corpse was performed by members of the Itou faction.” Sanosuke Harada: “It’s hard to believe that Tani was killed… His opponent must have been very skilled.” Susumu Yamazaki: “It may have been because he was drunk, but considering his position, Tani should have been prepared for a surprise attack.” "Okita, where were you and what have you been doing until this evening?" Souji Okita: "... Don't know, I don't remember." Susumu Yamazaki: “Okita!” Sanosuke Harada: "Stop fooling around, don't you get that this isn't the time for jokes?" Souji Okita: "I am fully aware. I'm not joking." “If I’d done it, don’t ya think I would’ve just told you guys I killed him?” Shinpachi Nagakura: "... Don't say that. What if others heard you? People might misunderstand." Souji Okita: "But I really didn't kill him. Look. I’m clean, I don’t got any blood on me." "If you still have doubts, you can even check my sword." Susumu Yamazaki: "... The presence of your sword or the absence of blood cannot prove your innocence." "You could have used a different sword, you could even have changed your kimono on your way back." Souji Okita: "... So in other words, you think that I killed Tani?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Stop twistin’ other people's words. Yamazaki is just asking for confirmation." Shinpachi Nagakura: “Hey, Hijikata, the fact that the members of the Itou faction were the only ones to inspect the corpse…” Toshizo Hijikata: “If they are the culprits, there is a possibility that they fabricated evidence that is convenient for them.” Souji Okita: "... Itou and his lackeys might be trying to make me out to be the culprit." "If that's the case, I'd rather kill Itou." "I'll probably be forced to commit seppuku anyway if I’m declared to be Tani’s killer." Hajime Saito: "... Souji, watch what you're saying." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Yeah, calm down. If you start acting rashly, you’ll be playing in their hands." Hachiro Iba: “Toshi…” Toshizo Hijikata: "Damn it… I've completely fallen behind." “Considering that a captain was killed, I should have been the first person they should have notified.” Susumu Yamazaki: “It would have been understandable if the commander was out, but he was at the base all day today.” Everyone seemed to be in serious thought. Hachiro Iba: "...Toshi. Do you know what Itou was up to today?" Toshizo Hijikata: "He seemed to have gone out somewhere. ... Why do you ask?” Hachiro Iba: “It’s nothing…” Chizuru Yukimura: “...?” What was that about? Iba appeared to be bothered by something... Hijikata didn't pursue it any further, and turned to face the others. Toshizo Hijikata: "Alright then. I’ll go talk to Itou directly." "You guys, don't do anything unnecessary, give priority to your usual duties." "For those of you who are off-duty, try to stay in your rooms." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I think it’s better if we avoid being alone as much as possible." "Who knows what they’ll accuse us of if we act even a little suspicious." Susumu Yamazaki: "Indeed. So please be careful." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I’m sure you already know this, but don't tell the other members that Tani is dead yet. Got it?" Hajime Saito: "Understood." Before long, the group was disbanded, and I watched the others leave the room one by one. Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru, it's time for us to leave the room..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah... Right!" I think I should just go back to my room… However there’s one thing that has been really bothers me. That's … I'm worried about Okita's condition. Iba’s concerns. What I can do.

Check out the translated video! Chizuru Yukimura: "Then..." Ask Okita. Ask Iba. Ask Inoue. Chizuru Yukimura: "Then... Can I ask for your help, Iba?" Hachiro Iba: "You want me to guard you?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah, I’m being a nuisance, aren’t I? Then– " Hachiro Iba: "N-No! You’re not being a nuisance at all!" "It’s just that, since it's an internal matter of the Shinsengumi, and I'm an outsider..." "So I never thought you would choose me." Souji Okita: "You're not jumping to any weird conclusions, are you? You know she’s just asking you to be her escort, right?" Hachiro Iba: "Of course I know that!" “But the fact that she chose me as her escort should mean that she trusts me to keep her safe.” Souji Okita: “… You sure you understand?” Genzaburou Inoue: “Well then Iba, please take care of Yukimura for us.” Hachiro Iba: "Of course! I will do my best to protect her." Souji Okita: "Then we'll take care of Tani." Okita and Inoue then both left the hall. For some reason, Iba seems to be very enthusiastic. Chizuru Yukimura: "... So, what should we do after this?" “Should I stay in my room so that Tani won’t get suspicious?” Hachiro Iba: “Earlier, Tani tried to confront you, didn’t he?” “If you stay locked up in your room after he tried to confront you, he might get more suspicious of you instead." "I think it would be best if you just do what you normally do." Chizuru Yukimura: "I see... You might be right." It's quite difficult to create a natural atmosphere, but... In order to act natural, we decided to just wander around the compound. ~NEXT SCENE~ Hachiro Iba: “Earlier, Okita said he would take care of Tani…” "Is it really alright to leave him be?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Sure, I'm a little worried as well, but..." "Inoue should be with him, so it'll probably be fine." "Maybe it won’t be so bad..." Hachiro Iba: "If that's the case, I guess it'll be fine..." Iba replied with a tone that sounded like something was wrong. Chizuru Yukimura: “… Are you worried about Okita?” Hachiro Iba: "Yes. I've known him since back in Edo." "Besides… this isn't just anybody's problem." "It's Kondo's family..." “The way Tennen Rishin-ryu is inherited is somewhat similar to Shingyoto-ryu.” Chizuru Yukimura: “… Is it alright if you tell me a little about it?” Iba looked at me and nodded. Hachiro Iba: “In the Shingyoto-ryu, we too select from among the disciples who have mastered the arts, those who are suitable for both physical strength and personality, adopt them, and make them succeed us.” "Among them, my generation is a little special." "The former head of the family, Iba Hidenari, is my real father." "He died when I was only fourteen…" “At that time, I was still too young and was unable to succeed my father.” “Then, my current adoptive father, who was a high-ranking disciple, was adopted into the Iba family and decided to take over.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Is that so…" Regarding Iba's family situation, I only knew that they run a prestigious dojo… He seems to have a lot of complicated things going on. Hachiro Iba: "... My adoptive father used to say–" "That his wish is for me to become the next head of the Shingyoto-ryu style in the future." “That's why he adopted me after becoming the head of the Iba family. So that I could succeed him in the future.” "... But sometimes I wonder if that was really the life my adoptive father wanted." "My adoptive father was fond of swordsmanship and only wanted to improve his skill with the sword. “However, since he inherited the Iba family, he is busy with the management of the dojo and the work of the shogunate…” "He couldn't live the life he originally wanted." “… If only I was strong enough to take over the dojo when my father passed away.” “My adoptive father could have lived the life he wanted.” Chizuru Yukimura: “Iba…” Hachiro Iba: "Of course, I know in my head that my adoptive father agreed and chose the current path." "Even so... I still can’t shack those thoughts." Chizuru Yukimura: “...” Hachiro Iba: “… Maybe Okita has a similar conflict to mine.” “That may be why he feels hesitant about taking over the Kondo family and the Tennen Rishin school.” Until now, that was something I had never thought of… Inheriting one family or school means changing the lives and destinies of many people. That may be one of the reasons why Okita doesn't want to give a clear answer. Hachiro Iba: “Maybe it’s because our circumstances are a bit similar, but I feel like I can understand where Okita is coming from.” "... However, if I were to say this to him, I'm sure he'd just bite back with a sarcastic remark." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yeah... you may be right." I can't help but burst out laughing at the image of Okita's sarcastic reaction. I caught my breath when I saw Tani in the distance. Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” What's more, it's obvious that he's looking for someone. No, I have to hide quickly...! Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru? What's wrong?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Quick Iba, this way!" Hachiro Iba: "Huh? Um..." I pull Iba by his sleeve. And just like that, we slip into a nearby room. However... Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah…!” Because I was in a hurry, I stumbled over my own feet and started to fall. Hachiro Iba: "Hey, Chizuru, watch out!" Iba immediately tried to protect me. But then… Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah…!” We both tumble and fall onto the tatami mats. -Picture- I gasped involuntarily as Iba covered my mouth with his hand. Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” I never thought I would end up in this position. Hachiro Iba: "Don’t raise your voice. We'll get noticed." “Don't move around. It's distracting." Chizuru Yukimura: “...” I nodded slightly while my mouth was blocked. Someone walks past the shoji door. Sanjuro Tani: “… I could have sworn I saw Yukimura around here just a second ago… Maybe I was mistaken?” What should I do if he opens the door for confirmation? My whole body is soaked with sweat, and I can't move. I hesitated even to breathe, let alone speak. Please. Just hurry up and go...! As I silently prayed, I just waited for the time to pass. Sanjuro Tani: “I guess it was just my imagination. Maybe the stress is getting to me." After muttering that, Tani's footsteps went farther and farther away. Hachiro Iba: "... It looks like the coast is clear." Chizuru Yukimura: "I-I'm sorry...!" Panicked, I got off Iba. Chizuru Yukimura: "I-I'm so so sorry!" “I didn’t mean for that to happen…!” Hachiro Iba: “N-No, it’s fine…” Chizuru Yukimura: "It's definitely not intentional! It's like force majeure...!" If we were just a little closer, there might have been a chance for our lips to touch one another. Hachiro Iba: "Y-yeah, I know. I should apologize as well... I'm sorry." "More importantly, are you hurt anywhere?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm fine. Thanks to you catching me..." Hachiro Iba: "I see. Well then... that's good." Chizuru Yukimura: “...” My heart is still practically beating out of my chest. Why on earth did I do that… Chizuru Yukimura: “Come to think of it, just because Tani was coming our direction–” "There was no need for us to panic and hide in the first place..." Hachiro Iba: "Oh, now that you mentioned it, that's true..." Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm really sorry! It's because of my carelessness." "There's no way I would do such a thing to a samurai like you..." I couldn’t stand it, and as I kept bowing my head over and over… Hachiro Iba: “... Chizuru.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes?" Hachiro Iba: "Please stop saying such things." Chizuru Yukimura: “What…?” Hachiro Iba: "It's true that I was born into a samurai family, but..." "When I'm with you, I'm just your childhood friend Hachiro Iba." "It's not like I protected you because I'm a samurai." "That's why when you keep apologizing like that… It feels like there is a wall between us." Chizuru Yukimura: “Oh…” Iba was indeed born into a samurai family… But if my childhood friend treated me like a stranger, I'm sure I would feel hurt as well. I could understand what that would feel like. Hachiro Iba: "Ah… I'm sorry." Chizuru Yukimura: "... I understand what you're feeling. I'm sorry." Hachiro Iba: "That’s good. But really, don't worry about it." "I'm just glad I was able to protect you from Tani." "And what happened because of that... I consider a happy accident..." Chizuru Yukimura: “What…?” Hachiro Iba: "It’s nothing, let’s get out of here!" What does he mean by "happy accident"? After that, we couldn't make eye contact for a while. ~NEXT SCENE~ The following day, the sky looked rather dreary. In the meantime... All the captains who were aware of the Shinsengumi’s secret, were gathered in the common room. Chizuru Yukimura: "I brought you some tea." The soldiers who were gathered all had a tense look on their faces. Chizuru Yukimura: “There’s your tea.” I quickly distributed the tea so as not to disturb their discussion. It seems that everybody has already been made aware of Tani's actions. Everyone kept quiet and had grim looks on their faces. Hachiro Iba: "... Thank you, Chizuru." Souji Okita: “Why are you here so early in the morning, Iba?” "Can’t you keep your nose out of our business?" Hachiro Iba: "I'm here as a representative of the shogunate, so..." "So I can't return to Edo until Tani's case is resolved." "... Besides, she is involved in this as well." Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, Hachiro, save the conversation for your own time." Hachiro Iba: "Right, I'm sorry." Toshizo Hijikata: “First up… Saito and Shinpachi, you guys were watching Tani yesterday.” "Please tell us your report." Hajime Saito: "During my investigation, I discovered that Tani has indeed been keeping an eye on Yukimura." "He also seemed to be trying to investigate what was going on inside the garrison." "When I called out to him, he dodged the question and ran away." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I saw Tani go to Itou's room in the middle of the night." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I see. Did you see anyone else enter the room?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "It was just him." "He and Itou were in there for quite some time... I think they were talking for about half an hour." Toshizo Hijikata: "Itou, huh... It would be troublesome if he were to investigate what’s in the depths of the garrison." Sanosuke Harada: "Before he starts sniffing around any further, wouldn't it be better if we tried to explain the dinner tray to Tani?" Toshizo Hijikata: "That may not be a bad idea... But what explanation would satisfy Tani and stop him from sneaking around?" Heisuke Toudou: “Wouldn’t it be fine if we told him she was just carrying food for the sick and resting soldiers?” Souji Okita: "It would be nice if he were to believe that." Sanosuke Harada: "How about we tell em Shinpachi has secretly been eating two servings in order to grow his muscles?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "There's no way Tani is gonna believe that." "But if you wanna let me eat for two, I won’t complain." Souji Okita: “… By the way Chizuru, when Tani confronted you, wasn’t that near Hijikata’s room?” Chizuru Yukimura: "That's right, his room wasn't that far away." Souji Okita: “Then why don’t we tell him that Hijikata has been having extra meals?” Chizuru Yukimura: “What!?” Hachiro Iba: "Wait a minute, Okita. I don’t think–" Toshizo Hijikata: "Tani isn’t stupid enough to believe that. Start thinking about this more seriously." Souji Okita: "Aww, but I really like that idea, so please push through." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, Hijikata is the Commander. It wouldn't be too strange if he were to have two meals." Toshizo Hijikata: "You assholes, saying whatever you want..." ...... I wonder, would Tani really believe such an odd explanation? Even I was starting to grow anxious. Hachiro Iba: “… Are you really okay with using that excuse?” "If it comes to light that you were having two servings behind everybody else's backs" “Wouldn’t your reputation suffer greatly among the soldiers?” Souji Okita: “Hijikata already has a pretty crappy reputation, so this wouldn’t really change much.” "It would be a trivial matter compared to if the truth were to come to light." Hijikata looked unconvinced and folded his arms, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "... I guess it can't be helped. Let’s go with that form now." “But you guys better try and come up with a proper excuse!” "... Harada. Can you call Tani here?" Sanosuke Harada: “You got it.” Harada then left the common room. Will Tani believe the excuse that we had come up with? My anxiety didn’t subside… After a while, the shoji door opened again. Sanosuke Harada: "It seems that Tani is out at the moment." Toshizo Hijikata: "He’s not off-duty today... Do you know where he went?" Sanosuke Harada: "I haven’t a clue. I tried to ask the members of the 7th Division, but he didn't tell them where he was going." Shinpachi Nagakura: “Maybe he ran away because he heard Souji is out to kill him?” Souji Okita: "If that were true, it would make things pretty boring. I was just thinking of how I would cut him." Toshizo Hijikata: "... Harada, when Tani returns, tell him to come to see me." Sanosuke Harada: "Got it, I’ll let him know." After that, they disbanded and everyone returned to their respective duties. ~NEXT SCENE~ However that night, things were moving in an unexpected direction. I was clearing up after dinner. Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru, let me lend you a hand." “Should I take this try and put it over there?” Chizuru Yukimura: "I-It’s fine...! I couldn’t possibly let you help me..." Hachiro Iba: "Please don't worry about it. It’s my way of thanking you for the delicious dinner." Chizuru Yukimura: “But…” Hachiro Iba: "When in Rome, you do as the Romans do, so please let me help out." Iba seems to be in a good mood today… Is he that happy to be able to eat with the others? Souji Okita: "... Oh, it seems you’ve already had dinner." Chizuru Yukimura: "Okita..." "Have you ever been out? Where did you go…?" I'm pretty sure I saw Okita heading out somewhere during the day. Souji Okita: "Well, I'm off duty today, so I just went out for a walk." Chizuru Yukimura: "If you're hungry, I can prepare you something." Souji Okita: "No need, I’m not really hungry." Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright…" Sanosuke Harada: "... I wonder what happened to Tani. It's almost time for curfew." Ever since the meeting ended, Harada has been waiting for Tani to return… But it seems that in the end, he still hadn’t returned to the headquarters. I'm sure Tani is well aware that breaking curfew could end in honorable suicide… At that moment, the shoji door opened… Susumu Yamazaki: "... Saito, Harada, Nagakura. Please follow me to the commander's room." Sanosuke Harada: "Why? Did something happen?" Hajime Saito: “I’m sure the commander will give us the details when we get there.” Susumu Yamazaki: “Okita, please join us as well.” Souji Okita: "... It looks like something pretty serious has happened." "I hope I can finally get permission to kill Tani." But Yamazaki didn't respond to Okita's joke. And just like that, they left the room. Hachiro Iba: "... I wonder what happened." “Judging by the look of things, it seems that something rather serious has happened.” Chizuru Yukimura: "I hope nothing bad has happened..." Just as I finished saying that. Susumu Yamazaki: “Iba, could you please follow me as well?” “And you too, Yukimura.” Hachiro Iba: “So you want us to join too. ……Alright, I understand.” Maybe this has something to do with Tani… We headed for Hijikata's room with a bad feeling in our hearts. ~NEXT SCENE~ Toshizo Hijikata: "I'm sorry for calling you all out here so out of the blue." "... Tani has been killed. It seems to have happened a little earlier today." The moment Hijikata uttered the words, it felt like the entire room froze over. Then, everyone's gaze turned to Okita. Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, is this your doing? Didn’t I tell you to restrain yourself?" Souji Okita: "It wasn’t me." "Where the hell did you find him? How was he killed?" Susumu Yamazaki: “He appears to have been cut down by someone as he was leaving the Yasaka Shrine.” "His corpse smelled of alcohol... So he was probably on his way back from Gion." "The people who found his body contacted the guard, and the members of the Itou faction were the first to investigate the scene." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yamazaki, were you able to check Tani's body?" Susumu Yamazaki: "Yes, I received a report from the corpsman. I decided that I should inform you first." “It appears that the autopsy of the corpse was performed by members of the Itou faction.” Sanosuke Harada: “It’s hard to believe that Tani was killed… His opponent must have been very skilled.” Susumu Yamazaki: “It may have been because he was drunk, but considering his position, Tani should have been prepared for a surprise attack.” "Okita, where were you and what have you been doing until this evening?" Souji Okita: "... Don't know, I don't remember." Susumu Yamazaki: “Okita!” Sanosuke Harada: "Stop fooling around, don't you get that this isn't the time for jokes?" Souji Okita: "I am fully aware. I'm not joking." “If I’d done it, don’t ya think I would’ve just told you guys I killed him?” Shinpachi Nagakura: "... Don't say that. What if others heard you? People might misunderstand." Souji Okita: "But I really didn't kill him. Look. I’m clean, I don’t got any blood on me." "If you still have doubts, you can even check my sword." Susumu Yamazaki: "... The presence of your sword or the absence of blood cannot prove your innocence." "You could have used a different sword, you could even have changed your kimono on your way back." Souji Okita: "... So in other words, you think that I killed Tani?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Stop twistin’ other people's words. Yamazaki is just asking for confirmation." Shinpachi Nagakura: “Hey, Hijikata, the fact that the members of the Itou faction were the only ones to inspect the corpse…” Toshizo Hijikata: “If they are the culprits, there is a possibility that they fabricated evidence that is convenient for them.” Souji Okita: "... Itou and his lackeys might be trying to make me out to be the culprit." "If that's the case, I'd rather kill Itou." "I'll probably be forced to commit seppuku anyway if I’m declared to be Tani’s killer." Hajime Saito: "... Souji, watch what you're saying." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Yeah, calm down. If you start acting rashly, you’ll be playing in their hands." Hachiro Iba: “Toshi…” Toshizo Hijikata: "Damn it… I've completely fallen behind." “Considering that a captain was killed, I should have been the first person they should have notified.” Susumu Yamazaki: “It would have been understandable if the commander was out, but he was at the base all day today.” Everyone seemed to be in serious thought. Hachiro Iba: "...Toshi. Do you know what Itou was up to today?" Toshizo Hijikata: "He seemed to have gone out somewhere. ... Why do you ask?” Hachiro Iba: “It’s nothing…” Chizuru Yukimura: “...?” What was that about? Iba appeared to be bothered by something... Hijikata didn't pursue it any further, and turned to face the others. Toshizo Hijikata: "Alright then. I’ll go talk to Itou directly." "You guys, don't do anything unnecessary, give priority to your usual duties." "For those of you who are off-duty, try to stay in your rooms." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I think it’s better if we avoid being alone as much as possible." "Who knows what they’ll accuse us of if we act even a little suspicious." Susumu Yamazaki: "Indeed. So please be careful." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I’m sure you already know this, but don't tell the other members that Tani is dead yet. Got it?" Hajime Saito: "Understood." Before long, the group was disbanded, and I watched the others leave the room one by one. Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru, it's time for us to leave the room..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah... Right!" I think I should just go back to my room… However there’s one thing that has been really bothers me. That's … I'm worried about Okita's condition. Iba’s concerns. What I can do.

Check out the translated video! Chizuru Yukimura: "Then..." Ask Okita. Ask Iba. Ask Inoue. Chizuru Yukimura: “Then, if you don’t mind, Okita.” Souji Okita: “So you want me to do it, huh…” Hachiro Iba: “Okita, please keep her safe and make sure that she doesn’t get in danger.” Souji Okita: "Just because you weren't chosen doesn’t mean you can order me around as you please." Genzaburou Inoue: "Please, Souji. We'll be keeping an eye on Tani's movements as well." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, please take care of me." And thus, Okita became my escort. ~NEXT SCENE~ Chizuru Yukimura: "I’m sorry, Okita." “I’m on lunch duty today, so you ended up having to help me out…” Souji Okita: "Don’t worry about it, I don't really care." Okita seems to be very frustrated with Tani… It's a bit difficult to be around him at times like this. But I'm worried about leaving Okita alone now. With that in mind, I started chopping the washed vegetables. Souji Okita: "... Aren’t those green onions? I hate green onions." "Why would you put something like that in there? Are you trying to harass me?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Green onions are also nutritious, and some soldiers like them.” Souji Okita: “Is that so…” Okita fell silent, probably because he got tired of talking to me. For a while, the only sound that echoed through the room was that of chopping vegetables. But then Okita suddenly spoke up… Souji Okita: "... I know that if I were to become Kondo's adopted child, everything would be fine." My hands involuntarily stopped moving at his unexpected words. Chizuru Yukimura: "... Then why did you say that to Hijikata?" Souji Okita: "I don't believe much in family ties." "I was born the eldest son of the Okita family, but I was forced to leave." "I wondered what it would be like to be part of a family or something like it. But..." "Kondo and I are connected by the bond of the sword." "That is enough for me." “Besides… even if I were to become adopted, Kondo would be sad if his son were to die before him.” Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” As usual, he spoke in a matter-of-fact manner, but… I had a feeling that Okita's true feelings were contained in his words just now. Just then, I hear the sound of boiling water coming from the stove. Souji Okita: "It looks like the water is boiling. You shouldn't boil the miso soup." Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah…right!” I hurried over to the furnace. Then, using a poker, I moved the firewood in the back to a place where it would not catch fire. Souji Okita: "Let’s see how it tastes." Okita lifted the lid of the pot and poured a little bit of the miso soup onto a small plate. And then… ~Picture~ Souji Okita: "... Hmm, I see.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... How about the taste? Does it taste good?" Souji Okita: "Well, something like that. It tastes good to you, right?” "In terms of swordsmanship, it's about Kirigami level." I think that means he approves. I wonder if it's Okita who doesn't get a lot of compliments… Souji Okita: "I think it would be better if it had a slightly stronger flavor." “After having worked up a sweat during training, I really want to eat something salty.” Chizuru Yukimura: "I see, that might be better..." I remember Nagakura and others saying that after training, they wanted to eat something with a strong flavor. Chizuru Yukimura: “Well then, let's add a little more miso." Souji Okita: “Right, that should do the trick.” After giving his approval, he moved away from the furnace. Chizuru Yukimura: “…But are you okay with strong flavors?” Souji Okita: “Why wouldn’t I be?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Because you’re…" I hesitated and didn’t finish my sentence… I choose my next words carefully. Chizuru Yukimura: "... I thought it would be better to eat something with a light flavor when your body is not feeling very well." Souji Okita: "Oh? So you’re treating me like a patient?" Chizuru Yukimura: "No, that's not...!" Perhaps this was an insensitive consideration to Okita. Thinking that, I tried to apologize. Souji Okita: "It's a hundred years too early for you to worry about me." "... But well, it seems like you cared about me.” "So I'll let you off the hook this time." "... But, Chizuru. Next time you treat me like a sick person..." Chizuru Yukimura: "... You're going to kill me, right?" Okita was stunned by the words that I let slip out… But then, a smile appeared on his face. Souji Okita: "..... I’m not gonna do that." Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh?” Souji Okita: "Killing you would be letting you off easy." "So I’m gonna bully you so much that you'll ever regret treating me like a sick person." "Even if you cry and beg for forgiveness, I won't forgive you, so be prepared." Okita's tone was so gentle that I got a bit confused. He won't kill me, but he’s just going to bully me… That won’t be so bad… right? Souji Okita: "What's with the face? It’s no fun if you’re gonna keep looking at me with that blank expression." Chizuru Yukimura: "I-It’s nothing... Please take care of me when that time comes." Souji Okita: “Hehe… Ahahaha” Chizuru Yukimura: "W-What is it?" Souji Okita: "...It’s nothing. You're just too funny. Hahahaha." “Haha… Come on, we have to finish preparing dinner.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah, yes! That's right!" Okita smiled and seemed to have returned to his usual self… But for a while, I couldn't hold a proper conversation. ~NEXT SCENE~ The following day, the sky looked rather dreary. In the meantime... All the captains who were aware of the Shinsengumi’s secret, were gathered in the common room. Chizuru Yukimura: "I brought you some tea." The soldiers who were gathered all had a tense look on their faces. Chizuru Yukimura: “There’s your tea.” I quickly distributed the tea so as not to disturb their discussion. It seems that everybody has already been made aware of Tani's actions. Everyone kept quiet and had grim looks on their faces. Hachiro Iba: "... Thank you, Chizuru." Souji Okita: “Why are you here so early in the morning, Iba?” "Can’t you keep your nose out of our business?" Hachiro Iba: "I'm here as a representative of the shogunate, so..." "So I can't return to Edo until Tani's case is resolved." "... Besides, she is involved in this as well." Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, Hachiro, save the conversation for your own time." Hachiro Iba: "Right, I'm sorry." Toshizo Hijikata: “First up… Saito and Shinpachi, you guys were watching Tani yesterday.” "Please tell us your report." Hajime Saito: "During my investigation, I discovered that Tani has indeed been keeping an eye on Yukimura." "He also seemed to be trying to investigate what was going on inside the garrison." "When I called out to him, he dodged the question and ran away." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I saw Tani go to Itou's room in the middle of the night." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I see. Did you see anyone else enter the room?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "It was just him." "He and Itou were in there for quite some time... I think they were talking for about half an hour." Toshizo Hijikata: "Itou, huh... It would be troublesome if he were to investigate what’s in the depths of the garrison." Sanosuke Harada: "Before he starts sniffing around any further, wouldn't it be better if we tried to explain the dinner tray to Tani?" Toshizo Hijikata: "That may not be a bad idea... But what explanation would satisfy Tani and stop him from sneaking around?" Heisuke Toudou: “Wouldn’t it be fine if we told him she was just carrying food for the sick and resting soldiers?” Souji Okita: "It would be nice if he were to believe that." Sanosuke Harada: "How about we tell em Shinpachi has secretly been eating two servings in order to grow his muscles?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "There's no way Tani is gonna believe that." "But if you wanna let me eat for two, I won’t complain." Souji Okita: “… By the way Chizuru, when Tani confronted you, wasn’t that near Hijikata’s room?” Chizuru Yukimura: "That's right, his room wasn't that far away." Souji Okita: “Then why don’t we tell him that Hijikata has been having extra meals?” Chizuru Yukimura: “What!?” Hachiro Iba: "Wait a minute, Okita. I don’t think–" Toshizo Hijikata: "Tani isn’t stupid enough to believe that. Start thinking about this more seriously." Souji Okita: "Aww, but I really like that idea, so please push through." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, Hijikata is the Commander. It wouldn't be too strange if he were to have two meals." Toshizo Hijikata: "You assholes, saying whatever you want..." ...... I wonder, would Tani really believe such an odd explanation? Even I was starting to grow anxious. Hachiro Iba: “… Are you really okay with using that excuse?” "If it comes to light that you were having two servings behind everybody else's backs" “Wouldn’t your reputation suffer greatly among the soldiers?” Souji Okita: “Hijikata already has a pretty crappy reputation, so this wouldn’t really change much.” "It would be a trivial matter compared to if the truth were to come to light." Hijikata looked unconvinced and folded his arms, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "... I guess it can't be helped. Let’s go with that form now." “But you guys better try and come up with a proper excuse!” "... Harada. Can you call Tani here?" Sanosuke Harada: “You got it.” Harada then left the common room. Will Tani believe the excuse that we had come up with? My anxiety didn’t subside… After a while, the shoji door opened again. Sanosuke Harada: "It seems that Tani is out at the moment." Toshizo Hijikata: "He’s not off-duty today... Do you know where he went?" Sanosuke Harada: "I haven’t a clue. I tried to ask the members of the 7th Division, but he didn't tell them where he was going." Shinpachi Nagakura: “Maybe he ran away because he heard Souji is out to kill him?” Souji Okita: "If that were true, it would make things pretty boring. I was just thinking of how I would cut him." Toshizo Hijikata: "... Harada, when Tani returns, tell him to come to see me." Sanosuke Harada: "Got it, I’ll let him know." After that, they disbanded and everyone returned to their respective duties. ~NEXT SCENE~ However that night, things were moving in an unexpected direction. I was clearing up after dinner. Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru, let me lend you a hand." “Should I take this try and put it over there?” Chizuru Yukimura: "I-It’s fine...! I couldn’t possibly let you help me..." Hachiro Iba: "Please don't worry about it. It’s my way of thanking you for the delicious dinner." Chizuru Yukimura: “But…” Hachiro Iba: "When in Rome, you do as the Romans do, so please let me help out." Iba seems to be in a good mood today… Is he that happy to be able to eat with the others? Souji Okita: "... Oh, it seems you’ve already had dinner." Chizuru Yukimura: "Okita..." "Have you ever been out? Where did you go…?" I'm pretty sure I saw Okita heading out somewhere during the day. Souji Okita: "Well, I'm off duty today, so I just went out for a walk." Chizuru Yukimura: "If you're hungry, I can prepare you something." Souji Okita: "No need, I’m not really hungry." Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright…" Sanosuke Harada: "... I wonder what happened to Tani. It's almost time for curfew." Ever since the meeting ended, Harada has been waiting for Tani to return… But it seems that in the end, he still hadn’t returned to the headquarters. I'm sure Tani is well aware that breaking curfew could end in honorable suicide… At that moment, the shoji door opened… Susumu Yamazaki: "... Saito, Harada, Nagakura. Please follow me to the commander's room." Sanosuke Harada: "Why? Did something happen?" Hajime Saito: “I’m sure the commander will give us the details when we get there.” Susumu Yamazaki: “Okita, please join us as well.” Souji Okita: "... It looks like something pretty serious has happened." "I hope I can finally get permission to kill Tani." But Yamazaki didn't respond to Okita's joke. And just like that, they left the room. Hachiro Iba: "... I wonder what happened." “Judging by the look of things, it seems that something rather serious has happened.” Chizuru Yukimura: "I hope nothing bad has happened..." Just as I finished saying that. Susumu Yamazaki: “Iba, could you please follow me as well?” “And you too, Yukimura.” Hachiro Iba: “So you want us to join too. ……Alright, I understand.” Maybe this has something to do with Tani… We headed for Hijikata's room with a bad feeling in our hearts. ~NEXT SCENE~ Toshizo Hijikata: "I'm sorry for calling you all out here so out of the blue." "... Tani has been killed. It seems to have happened a little earlier today." The moment Hijikata uttered the words, it felt like the entire room froze over. Then, everyone's gaze turned to Okita. Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, is this your doing? Didn’t I tell you to restrain yourself?" Souji Okita: "It wasn’t me." "Where the hell did you find him? How was he killed?" Susumu Yamazaki: “He appears to have been cut down by someone as he was leaving the Yasaka Shrine.” "His corpse smelled of alcohol... So he was probably on his way back from Gion." "The people who found his body contacted the guard, and the members of the Itou faction were the first to investigate the scene." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yamazaki, were you able to check Tani's body?" Susumu Yamazaki: "Yes, I received a report from the corpsman. I decided that I should inform you first." “It appears that the autopsy of the corpse was performed by members of the Itou faction.” Sanosuke Harada: “It’s hard to believe that Tani was killed… His opponent must have been very skilled.” Susumu Yamazaki: “It may have been because he was drunk, but considering his position, Tani should have been prepared for a surprise attack.” "Okita, where were you, and what have you been doing until this evening?" Souji Okita: "... Don't know, I don't remember." Susumu Yamazaki: “Okita!” Sanosuke Harada: "Stop fooling around, don't you get that this isn't the time for jokes?" Souji Okita: "I am fully aware. I'm not joking." “If I’d done it, don’t ya think I would’ve just told you guys I killed him?” Shinpachi Nagakura: "... Don't say that. What if others heard you? People might misunderstand." Souji Okita: "But I really didn't kill him. Look. I’m clean, I don’t got any blood on me." "If you still have doubts, you can even check my sword." Susumu Yamazaki: "... The presence of your sword or the absence of blood cannot prove your innocence." "You could have used a different sword, you could even have changed your kimono on your way back." Souji Okita: "... So in other words, you think that I killed Tani?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Stop twistin’ other people's words. Yamazaki is just asking for confirmation." Shinpachi Nagakura: “Hey, Hijikata, the fact that the members of the Itou faction were the only ones to inspect the corpse…” Toshizo Hijikata: “If they are the culprits, there is a possibility that they fabricated evidence that is convenient for them.” Souji Okita: "... Itou and his lackeys might be trying to make me out to be the culprit." "If that's the case, I'd rather kill Itou." "I'll probably be forced to commit seppuku anyway if I’m declared to be Tani’s killer." Hajime Saito: "...Souji, watch what you're saying." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Yeah, calm down. If you start acting rashly, you’ll be playing in their hand." Hachiro Iba: “Toshi…” Toshizo Hijikata: "Damn it… I've completely fallen behind." “Considering that a captain was killed, I should have been the first person they should have modified.” Susumu Yamazaki: “It would have been understandable if the commander was out, but he was at the base all day today.” Everyone seemed to be in serious thought. Hachiro Iba: "...Toshi. Do you know what Itou was up to today?" Toshizo Hijikata: "He seemed to have gone out somewhere. ... Why do you ask?” Hachiro Iba: “It’s nothing…” Chizuru Yukimura: “...?” What was that about? Iba appeared to be bothered by something... Hijikata didn't pursue it any further, and turned to face the others. Toshizo Hijikata: "Alright then. I’ll go talk to Itou directly." "You guys, don't do anything unnecessary, give priority to your usual duties." "For those of you who are off-duty, try to stay in your rooms." Shinpachi Nagakura: "I think it’s better if we avoid being alone as much as possible." "Who knows what they’ll accuse us of if we act even a little suspicious." Susumu Yamazaki: "Indeed. So please be careful." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I’m sure you already know this, but don't tell the other members that Tani is dead yet. Got it?" Hajime Saito: "Understood." Before long, the group was disbanded, and I watched the others leave the room one by one. Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru, it's time for us to leave the room..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah... Right!" I think I should just go back to my room… However there’s one thing that has been really bothers me. That's … I'm worried about Okita's condition. Iba’s concerns. What I can do.

Check out the translated video! However there’s one thing that has been really bothering me. That's … I'm worried about Okita's condition. Iba’s concerns. What I can do. Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... is there anything I can do?" Toshizo Hijikata: "For now, you should go back to your room. Saito, please accompany this kid back." "Even though Tani is gone... it's still not safe for you to roam alone." Hajime Saito: "Understood. Let's go, Yukimura." Chizuru Yukimura: “A-Alright…” ~NEXT SCENE~ After that, I asked Saito as he took me to the front of my room. Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... Do you think Okita is going to be alright?" Hajime Saito: “… I am not in a position to answer that question right now.” Hearing Saito's answer… I deeply regret asking such a shallow question. Hajime Saito: "Tomorrow, the commander will probably give some kind of explanation of the situation." Chizuru Yukimura: “... Okay.” Hajime Saito: "We both know Souji wouldn’t break the rules without a second thought." "If someone falsely accused him, they will definitely be punished." Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” Saito's words felt like a ray of hope… Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes! I believe so too!" Hajime Saito: “… It seems we were talking for quite a while.” "Well, I’ll be going now." …Thank you, Saito. After hearing his words, I started getting ready for bed. ~NEXT SCENE~ And the next day– All the members of Shinsengumi were gathered in the common room. Toshizo Hijikata: "I know some of you are already aware, but I'll repeat it for the rest of you." "Sanjuro Tani, captain of the 7th Division, was killed last night." With Hijikata's heavy words, the entire room once again fell silent. Kanryusai Takeda: "Tani was killed...? Who the hell could have done this?" Kashitaro Itou: "We’re still not certain who did it." "... Saburo, didn’t you receive a report from the soldier who inspected the scene where Tani was killed yesterday?" "Could you share with everyone what you know?" Saburo Miki: "Got it. Tani was found collapsed outside the precincts of Yasaka Shrine." "His body smelled of alcohol, so it's likely that someone attacked him on his way home from Gion." Kanryusai Takeda: "Was he attacked by some random thug?" Saburo Miki: "There didn't seem to be any signs of a fight." "... So it likely might have been the work of an acquaintance." Kashitaro Itou: "According to what I've heard... it seemed that there were quite a few that held a grudge against him." "... Perhaps it was the work of someone in this corps." "It seems that some people were jumping at the opportunity to get rid of him." -After saying that, Itou glanced at Okita. Souji Okita: “...... Oh?” Okita however didn't seem to care and evaded his gaze. Toshizo Hijikata: “The fact that a senior officer was killed is something that should not have happened.” "Especially... without them being able to draw their sword." "Listen up, use whatever means necessary to find the culprits." "Also, don't try to make a mockery out of Tani's death. That's all." Everyone/Soldiers: “Yes sir!” After replying, the soldiers leave the room for their respective duties. Kanryusai Takeda: "This is a big problem, isn’t it Itou? I can't believe that Tani..." Kashitaro Itou: "It certainly is. However, it appeared that he had been causing a lot of problems..." "It seems that he also had plenty of people who were resentful towards him." "So it's not all too surprising looking back on it." Kanryusai Takeda: "Y-You’re right. That certainly appears to be the case." Toshizo Hijikata: "... Itou, I have something I’d like to ask you." Kashitaro Itou: "Oh, what is it?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Regarding Tani... why was it that you were the first to receive the report?" "It should be customary to report this kind of thing to me or the chief first." Kashitaro Itou: "Purely by chance, I suppose?" “It’s inconceivable for an executive to be killed like that.” “Isn’t understandable for the soldier who came to report it to be distressed?” Toshizo Hijikata: "…I see. It’s inconceivable, huh?" In his heart, Hijikata didn't seem satisfied with his answer, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "I apologize for holding you up. In any case, we must find the one behind Tani's murder as soon as possible.” Kashitaro Itou: "Yes, I agree. We can't let the crooks go unnoticed like this." "It can't be helped if neither you nor I are considered qualified to lead the Shinsengumi if this continues." Toshizo Hijikata: “….. Right.” Kashitaro Itou: "Well then, let's go Saburo." Saburo Miki: “Yeah, you got it.” "... With this, it seems that the inner relationships will become a lot more complicated." Kanryusai Takeda: "Um, Itou! Please let me assist you!" Itou left the room with Miki and Takeda. ~NEXT SCENE~ The next day. Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, you'll be staying in your room for today. Don't do anything unnecessary. Souji Okita: “I still have to train the soldiers, are you telling me to take a break from that as well?” Toshizo Hijikata: "This is a matter of caution, so it's only natural. I'll have Saito or Shinpachi take over training them." Souji Okita: "Well, if you say so, I guess I'll just rest for the rest of the day." After letting his dissatisfaction be known, Okita left the room. Genzaburou Inoue: "Yukimura, could you take care of Souji?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, of course." As soon as I was about to head toward Okita’s room– Chizuru Yukimura: "Okita! Where are you going!?" Souji Okita: "Where you ask... Well, I'm bored, so I thought I'd go visit Hijikata's room." Chizuru Yukimura: "You can't do that! Didn’t Hijikata tell you to be discreet?" Souji Okita: "That's why I thought I'd lay low in Hijikata's room. Shouldn't that be fine?" Chizuru Yukimura: "You can’t! Go back to your own room." After that, the battle between Okita, who tried to escape somehow, and me, who tried to stop him, continued... And before I knew it, it was noon. ~NEXT SCENE~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Men, I’m starving! I could really go for some food right about now!" Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah, welcome back everyone." “... Did you discover anything new?’ Hajime Saito: "Unfortunately, our investigation wasn’t very fruitful." Chizuru Yukimura: “I see…” If we don't find any clues, Okita will… Just as I was thinking that. Susumu Yamazaki: “We have returned. Is the commander in his room?” Genzaburou Inoue: "That's right. Toshi is supposedly writing in his room..." "By any chance, did you two discover something?" Hachiro Iba: "Yes. Yamazaki and I went to Gion together to make some inquiries..." “We heard that Tani and Itou were drinking together in Gion the night he passed away.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "Is that true!? Does that mean that Itou saw Tani on the way home…?” Souji Okita: "I see. That's why he tried to put the blame on me… He was behind it all along." Just Okita was about to leave the room. Chizuru Yukimura: "Okita, where are you going…?” Souji Okita: "Isn’t it obvious? There's no way I can keep quiet after hearing all that." Chizuru Yukimura: “No way, you mean Itou…!?” Susumu Yamazaki: "Hold on, Okita. We haven’t confirmed that Itou is the culprit yet!" Just as Yamazaki spook up. Toshizo Hijikata: "Yamazaki is right, Souji. Don't be too hasty." Chizuru Yukimura: “Hijikata…!” Toshizo Hijikata: “… Itou can’t hide the fact that he went out drinking with Tani.” "If they were serious about killing Tani, they would have done a better job." Susumu Yamazaki: "I agree with the commander." "Itou probably didn't anticipate that Tani was going to be killed." Sanosuke Harada: "You sure? Don’t you think it's precisely because Itou and the others were the culprits that they tried to cover their crime by framing Souji?" Hachiro Iba: "No, if you ask around, it becomes clear that they went home before Tani, so they would naturally be a suspect." "I think it's highly unlikely that they killed him on the way home." Shinpachi Nagakura: “Even if Itou didn’t do it himself, there are people who’d do whatever he says, right? For a while, they had a serious discussion, but– Toshizo Hijikata: "... No, Itou isn't that stupid. Someone else must be responsible." “For the time being, I think I will tell Itou to stop treating Souji as a criminal.” Susumu Yamazaki: “If you were to present today’s findings to Itou, I don’t think he will take any hostile action.” Toshizo Hijikata: "Yeah. Right now, there is enough grounds for suspicions about Itou, since he went out drinking with Tani right before he died." "... I'll handle the negotiations with Itou. You guys shouldn't imitate them unnecessarily. Got that?" Hajime Saito: “Understood.” Souji Okita: "Even though I was being treated as a criminal, you are gonna let them go without incident?" "You're being too lax, Hijikata. I'm disappointed." Toshizo Hijikata: "It can't be helped. If we were to push further than this, it could lead to a fight dividing the Shinsengumi in two." Sanosuke Harada: "Aren't you going to catch the person who killed Tani?" Toshizo Hijikata: “… At the moment it would be worse if it came to light that a Shinsengumi executive had been killed.” "As frustrating as it is, I have no choice but to clean it up as a sudden death of unknown cause." Sanosuke Harada: "... I see. Guess it can't be helped." “Still, Tani must have gone to see him with some sort of purpose.” Toshizo Hijikata: "Well, I'll be going to talk to Itou." “You guys, keep an eye on Souji and keep him out of trouble.” Hajime Saito: “Of course.” Souji Okita: “You really don’t trust me, huh? Well don’t worry, I wouldn't go and kill Itou in this situation." Hajime Saito: "You want us to trust you? Then go back to your room." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yukimura, go prepare some tea and bring it to my room." Chizuru Yukimura: “... Alright.” As of that moment, the discussion with Itou and the others would begin. I wonder what’s going to happen. ~NEXT SCENE~ Chizuru Yukimura: "Hijikata, it’s Yukimura. I’ve brought you some tea." Toshizo Hijikata: “Come in.” Chizuru Yukimura: “Excuse me.” I nervously stepped into the room. Chizuru Yukimura: “... Here’s your tea.” Kashitaro Itou: “Thank you, dear.” While Itou was thanking me... Both Hijikata and Miki wore a grim expression on their faces. Toshizo Hijikata: “… So, as I explained earlier, I will announce that Tani died of an unknown cause.” Kashitaro Itou: "That would be wise." "And since you can believe in my innocence as well," "I will help you stop the decline of Okita’s reputation." Seeing the situation, I guess the discussion with Itou is going well...? Chizuru Yukimura: “... If you’ll excuse me.” "... Phew" For the time being, it seems that persuading Itou went well. I'm curious about what they’re saying... but it doesn't seem like I get to listen in anymore. Thinking that, I was about to head back to my room– Souji Okita: "Hey, over here." Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh…?” Hearing Okita's voice, I turned to see where it was going from. At that moment, he is grabbed by the arm and dragged into the shadows. Chizuru Yukimura: “Eek!” Shinpachi Nagakura: “Shhh, please keep it down.” Chizuru Yukimura: "... What are you guys all doing here?" Sanosuke Harada: "We were curious about how the discussion with Itou was going." Souji Okita: "You listen in on their discussion, right? How’s it going?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Well, how should I put it..." As I was struggling to answer their question… I heard the sound of the shoji door opening. And there were– Saburo Miki: "... Are you sure, brother? Aren’t we giving Hijikata and the others exactly what they want?" Kashitaro Itou: "Well, this time, it wouldn't be a bad idea to follow Hijikata's plan." The two of you noticed us and stopped. Kashitaro Itou: "I'm glad you're okay, Okita. I'm happy that your suspicions have been cleared." Souji Okita: "Yeah. If I were ordered to commit seppuku," "I might have done something to those who accused me of being the culprit before I die." Saburo Miki: "Hey, watch your mouth, Okita. Just because you–" Kashitaro Itou: "That’s enough, Saburo.” “More importantly, I wonder who’s really behind Tani’s death?” After muttering to himself, Itou went on his way. Saburo Miki: “... Hmpf. Well, good for you guys." After making his sarcastic remark, Miki also left and headed after Itou. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Damn, they’re so annoying. They really get on my nerves, so I’m going out drinking after this to blow off some steam." Sanosuke Harada: "I'll join in as well. You’ll be going too, right Heisuke?" Heisuke Toudou: "Me? Well, I gotta patrol soon, so I have to get ready to leave in a sec." Sanosuke Harada: "Gotya. Well, see you later." Nagakura and the others continued walking in the opposite direction from which Itou went. At that time, the shoji door opened once again. Toshizo Hijikata: "What, you guys are still here?" Souji Okita: "That’s not a nice way of putting it." Toshizo Hijikata: "No, I think it's just right." "... Just to make sure, you guys are no longer involved in this case." "Looking for the person who killed Tani is out of the question… You got that?" Hachiro Iba: "... Loud and clear." Souji Okita: "Well, I don’t really care. I guess I gotta hand it to you this time." Toshizo Hijikata: "I will inform the shogunate and the Aizu clan that Tani was drunk and died suddenly on the way back to the camp." "... I'll just have to make sure they buy into it." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” In the end, I still don't know who killed Tani... This time, the case came to a close. It's an unsatisfying conclusion, but I don't think it's something that I should look further into. As I realized that I got involved with another part of the Shinsengumi again... We left the scene. ~NEXT SCENE~ And so, a few days later. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Men, I'm glad it's sunny! The only time you get to drink during the middle of the day is during cherry blossom season!" Hajime Saito: "You guys seem to be drinking all the time despite the time of day." Shinpachi Nagakura: “But I've always been so stealthy about it!” Heisuke Toudou: “Anyways… Did something go wrong with the preparations?” "Even though we get to hold a cherry blossom viewing, it doesn’t feel the same considering we have to hold it inside of the base!" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, yeah, there isn’t much we could do about that... things were a bit complicated." According to Nagakura— It seems that they were originally planning to hold the cherry blossom viewing at Shosei-en, which is next to the base. But perhaps because of the Shinsengumi reputation, it seems that the other party was not willing to give them permission. It seems that there is no choice but to hold the flower viewing at the base. Hachiro Iba: “Well, we still get to enjoy the alcohol here, so don’t blame Shinpachi too much…” Souji Okita: “You probably get invited to a lot of cherry blossom viewings back in Edo, don’t ya.” "There would likely be a lot of women hanging around you, right?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh?” Hachiro Iba: “Okita! Please stop making such misleading remarks!" "Okita is just joking around, Chizuru. So please don't take him seriously." Chizuru Yukimura: “A-Alright…” “Come to think of it, I haven’t seen Itou and the others.” Heisuke Toudou: “I tried to invite him, but he turned me down because he had plans for a poetry party.” Souji Okita: "Well, even if they were to come, they’d only spoil the mood." Genzaburou Inoue: “Well then, now that everyone is here, let’s get started.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well then, to express my gratitude, please lend me a hand, everyone!" As Nagakura cheerfully started the Ippon-jime– Heisuke Toudou: "Oh, that looks good! And this one as well!" Genzaburou Inoue: "There is plenty to go around, so there’s no need to rush." Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Heisuke. Nagakura hasn’t finished the Ippon-jime yet..." Heisuke Toudou: "Ah, it’s fine. Let's let Shin do it by himself." "This is not some fancy banquet, we’re just holding a cherry blossom viewing." "And they say I can’t read the room…" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hold it right there! You gotta do the Ippon-jime first!!" Hachiro Iba: “By any chance, did you make these dishes, Chizuru?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. I prepared them together with Inoue and Yamazaki…" Hachiro Iba: "Is that so... I’ll savor these then." Souji Okita: “It looks like Iba would be happy to eat even the roots of the tree if it was a dish prepared by this kid.” Hachiro Iba: "What are you saying…!" “In any case, she wouldn’t serve things like tree roots in the first place.” Souji Okita: "That sounds interesting, so why don't you try making it next time, Chizuru? Chizuru Yukimura: "I can't do that!" “Besides, Iba helped you out a lot this time, didn’t he?” Souji Okita: “… Come to think of it, it was thanks to Iba that my suspicions were cleared this time.” “Alright, I guess I should thank you. … Thanks.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Okita, when you say it like that..." Hachiro Iba: "Sorry Okita, but I couldn’t quite hear you." "Didn't they teach you to express your gratitude clearly when thanking someone?" Souji Okita: "... I take it back" “You really are such a nice guy, aren’t you Iba?” Hachiro Iba: "I'm honored to receive such a compliment." Shinpachi Nagakura: "... What's up with everyone? Why are y'all giving me a hard time?" Sanosuke Harada: "Stop complainin’ and just enjoy your drink. It's Hijikata's treat, isn't it?" Harada pours sake into the cup in Nagakura's hand. Shinpachi Nagakura: "Well, you're right, but… you could’ve at least let me finish..." Heisuke Toudou: “By the way Sano, you seem to be drinking a lot less than usual." “… You cared about Tani, didn’t you?” Sanosuke Harada: “… The life and death of a person depends on the luck of the moment, and it can’t be helped.” “Anyway, Tani was a fan of lively things.” "So let's drink and make merry, and send our liveliness his way." Heisuke Toudou: "... Yeah" As the warriors were talking… Isami Kondo: "Oh, it seems that everyone already has started drinking." "A lot has happened, but today I want you to enjoy the alcohol and remember those who have passed." Souji Okita: "Kondo, you’re here! This spot is empty, so please have a seat." Isami Kondo: "Thank you, Souji." ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Alright Saito, let's hold a drinking competition! No holding back, a serious drinking match!" Hajime Saito: "Since we got permission from the chief, I’ll accept your challenge.” Hachiro Iba: "Well then, I will be the referee." "Whenever you’re ready, you two." Heisuke Toudou: "... Hey Sano. If I'm not mistaken, wasn't Hajime an extreme heavyweight?" Sanosuke Harada: "Well, I don’t think I’ve ever seen him drunk." Toshizo Hijikata: "You guys, make sure this doesn't affect your duties tomorrow." Isami Kondo: "It's fine, let them be. You should let loose a little as well." After saying that, Kondo looked at the scenery of the party with a slightly lonely look in his eyes. Isami Kondo: “… Usually Tani would be here, too.” Toshizo Hijikata: “......” Isami Kondo: "It's a pity that an old member is no longer with us..." "This may be something we just have to overcome." Toshizo Hijikata: "... He might be better off just because he has someone to see him off like this." "Even we don't know when and where we will die." While gazing at the cherry blossom petals floating through the wind… Hijikata and the others narrowed their eyes a little sadly. ~Picture~ Shinpachi Nagakura: "Haa...! No, I can't, my eyes are spinning...!" Hajime Saito: "You're getting sloppy, Shinpachi. Are you ready to surrender?" Shinpachi Nagakura: "Are you some kind of monster? You've been drinking that much, but you look totally fine..." Hachiro Iba: “Then, should I declare Saito the winner?” Shinpachi Nagakura: "N-No, not yet! I haven't lost yet!" Hachiro Iba: "As expected of you, Shinpachi. I must emulate that fighting spirit of yours.” Shinpachi Nagakura: "For the time being, let me take a short break. The real match will be after that..." Hachiro Iba: "Alright, let’s take a short break. But please don't push yourself too much." Shinpachi Nagakura: "Okay. After I’ve rested a little, things will get serious! So prepare yourself!" Hajime Saito: "Of course." And that’s how our spring of 1866 came to pass. ~NEXT SCENE~ A few nights later. Keisuke Sannan: “... May I ask what brings you to my room?” Toshizo Hijikata: "... Since it involved you as well, I think you already have the information, but Tani is dead." Keisuke Sannan: "Yes, I'm aware. It’s quite unfortunate to lose someone like him." Toshizo Hijikata: “Because of that, there was a lot of tension between Itou and the others.” Keisuke Sannan: "Well at the very least, that should have taken care of one of the chief's worries." Toshizo Hijikata: "... Yeah. If Tani had continued as he did, it would have been troublesome, no doubt about it." "He seems to have become curious about our secrets." "So it turned out for the better... or rather, his death was almost too convenient for us." Keisuke Sannan: “Itou and the others trying to push Okita out was somewhat unexpected.” "If Iba and the others hadn't used their wit, Okita, Saito, and you... Hijikata would have been in quite the predicament." “There is no doubt that bad rumors about you three would spread among the general members and divide the Shinsengumi.” Toshizo Hijikata: "Just the thought of what that would have been like... horrifies me." "But let's put that aside... I'm curious about what Tani was talking about with Itou." “It seems that Tani felt something was off with Yukimura carrying food to your room.” Keisuke Sannan: "Tani knew almost nothing. It seems that Itou didn't say anything that touched that heart of the matter." “That night, in Gion, what Itou said to Tani was—” ""Don't bother the director anymore" which was a perfectly reasonable remark." “Itou must have spread some bait to lure Tani out.” “Tani was in a really good mood that night.” “Having joined Itou’s faction, he must have been under the impression that his future position among them would be secure.” Toshizo Hijikata: "... Wait a minute, Sannan." "Why do you know what Itou and Tani talked about that night? Don't tell you..." Keisuke Sannan: "I indeed overheard their conversations, but I don't know what happened after that." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I heard you went out with some of the Furies that night." "I've been wondering about that for quite some time now…. So what happened?" ~Flashback~ Keisuke Sannan: "That night... I took some of the Furies outside as part of their training." "On the way, I happened to see Itou and Tani heading to Gion, and I followed them." "I instructed the others to return to the base on their own, and I sneaked into the shop to listen to what they had to say." "Eventually, after confirming that Tani went back first, I headed outside as well..." Sanjuro Tani: "Hey, you guys... you're from the Shinsengumi, aren't you? What are you doing!?" "Why are you killing people in a place like this? On whose orders?" Fury 1: "Hahaha… Well, looky here... If it isn't Captain Tani?" "Ya wanna know what we're doing? We found a suspicious ronin... killed him and are drinking his blood." Sanjuro Tani: "Guh... you're drinking his blood...? What the hell are you talking about?" "Hold up, you guys... aren't you Sakurai and Kawai? How is that possible... you're supposed to be dead..." "You guys had to commit seppuku, didn't you? What's going on? Why are you alive?" Fury 2: "Hahahahaha, that's right! We're supposed to have died by seppuku, but we're still alive." Sanjuro Tani: "H-hey... what's going on?" "You should have told me you were alive. I'm an executive, you know." Fury 2: "Sorry, but no can do. We're supposed to be dead, remember? ...So we can't deal with you anymore." Sanjuro Tani: "Wha? I don't get it... You're still alive, aren't you? So you should go back to the Shinsengumi." "Or what? Are your deaths some kind of public cover-up, or something?" Fury 3: "Ya got it in one… Captain Tani. We've been transformed into monsters called Furies." Sanjuro Tani: "Are you... Ozeki!? But... didn’t you die of an illness." “Also… what’s with that look? Why do you guys have such weird white hair? Fury 1: “Kukuku… Like we said, it’s because we became Furies!” Fury 2: "You were always so boastful, Captain Tani, and I really can’t stand that. I wonder if I should just kill you... Hahahaha!” Fury 3: "We can't let our secret be made public. But you saw us, Captain Tani..." "... If we don't kill you, we’ll be killed instead!!" Sanjuro Tani: "Now, hold up... wait a minute! What is this about killing or being killed!?” “Damn… Ya got to be kidding me!!” "I'll have the chief investigate this later!" Tani spun around and was about to run away from them. Luckily, I was just in time. Sanjuro Tani: “W-Wait, aren’t you… Sannan!?” "Hey... what's going on? Why are you still alive...?" "... Did I get drunk and am I hallucinating this? Or is this some kind of dream?" Keisuke Sannan: "No. I'm sorry to say, but sadly this is reality." Sanjuro Tani: "I see… So that means..." “Both you and these guys were officially announced dead, but are you living in hiding?” "So this is what’s hidden in the depths of the headquarters... this is the secret that no one knows about?" "Hey... please answer me, Sannan." "I can't believe the Shinsengumi was hiding such a secret..." "Hey... this is a secret only known to Kondo's inner circle, right? Can I be in on it too?" Keisuke Sannan: "Tani... Unfortunately, you ended up meeting them here." Sanjuro Tani: “Huh??…… What do you mean?” Keisuke Sannan: “It seems that they had a big grudge against you from while they were alive.” Sanjuro Tani: "Well... that may have happened, but that's all water under the bridge–" Fury 1: “Taniii–!!” "I couldn’t stand you for so long! Die!" With an agile movement, the Fury warrior’s sword moved toward Tani's heart... and pierced him deeply. Sanjuro Tani: “B-Basters… Urg…!!” “Sannan… what… what’s happening…” "Am... am I going to die... like this…?" Keisuke Sannan: "Farwell, Tani." “Unfortunately for you… I will not bring you back to life.” "Anyone who brings discord to the Shinsengumi shall be taken care of." "Thank you for your hard work up until now. Please leave the future to us..." ~End Flashback~ Keisuke Sannan: "I was the one who witnessed Tan in his final moments." “… From the perspective of the Furies, who are supposed to be dead and can’t appear in public–.” “I guess the sight of Tani going out drinking and returning from Gion gave them something to think about.'' Toshizo Hijikata: "... You’re probably right. Tani was quite an unlucky fellow." Keisuke Sannan: "But Tani was also helpful." "Furies physiologically want blood." "I know that the research is going well to the extent that I don't go crazy when I see blood." Toshizo Hijikata: "Men... you're a scary person." Keisuke Sannan: “… We were created for the Shinsengumi, so let us take care of the dirty work.” Toshizo Hijikata: “......” Keisuke Sannan: “By the way… is that you, Saito?” Hajime Saito: "Yes. The commander called for me, so I came." Toshizo Hijikata: "Come in." Hajime Saito: "You said you needed my help with something." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yeah. Not right now... but when the time is right, I want you to infiltrate Itou’s inner circle." "In preparation for that time, casually approach Itou." Hajime Saito: "If it's an order, I don't have any reason to refuse, but why me?" Toshizo Hijikata: "If Yamazaki did it, Itou will probably suspect something." "Besides, Itou seems to be interested in your sword style." Hajime Saito: "... I see. Understood." Toshizo Hijikata: “If you say you have doubts about Kondo and my way of dealing with matters, you can use that as a reason to approach Itou.” Keisuke Sannan: "You never cease to surprise me. As expected of the Demon Commander." Toshizo Hijikata: "... I a nothing compared to you. I’m counting on you, Saito." Hajime Saito: "As you wish. Then, I will take my leave." Toshizo Hijikata: "... Regarding Tani’s death, I’ve dismissed it as a sudden death." "But if you decide to take any action from now on, please speak to me first." "It's not that I doubt your feelings for the Shinsengumi..." "However, the Shinsengumi was created by all of us." Keisuke Sannan: "... I understand. I will keep that in mind from now on." ~END~

Check out the translated video! What should I do…? Check on Okita. Attend to Iba. Go back to my tasks. Chizuru Yukimura: "I will excuse myself as well." Toshizo Hijikata: “Right, sorry for all the trouble.” Hachiro Iba: “Chizuru” "I think I can stay in Kyoto a little longer, so let's catch up sometime soon." Chizuru Yukimura: “Yes, let’s.” I bowed to the three of them and left the room. ~NEXT SCENE~ Later, while I was sweeping in the courtyard… Susumu Yamazaki: “So this is where you were, Yukimura.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Hello everyone, do you need me for something?" Yamazaki looked around to make sure that there was nobody else close by. Susumu Yamazaki: "We were just informed by the commander." "... You heard about it too, didn't you? About Okita, I mean." I tightly gripped my broom. Chizuru Yukimura: "...Yes, I heard about it." Susumu Yamazaki: "In that case, I’ll keep this short. If Okita seems to be acting off, please let us know immediately." Chizuru Yukimura: “I understand.” Thinking back on how Okita was earlier… I felt murderous intent radiating from him and he seemed ready to kill Tani at any moment. I think Yamazaki and the others also heard about this from Hijikata. Genzaburou Inoue: "... I’m sure Tani doesn't mean anything harm, but he is a little too arrogant." Susumu Yamazaki: "... I understand that you don't want to think badly of him because he has been an executive for a long time..." “But this case is highly likely to go against one of the bureaucratic laws—“Don’t arbitrarily handle lawsuits.”” Genzaburou Inoue: "... Hmm, I hope it won’t come to that." Apparently, this time Tani's case... Seems to be causing more ripples than I had imagined. Kai Shimada: "Yukimura, if you notice something happens between Okita and Tani..." "Never deal with it by yourself, please consult with us or one of the captains." "If it's urgent, call out to us. We'll come right away." Chizuru Yukimura: "... Alright, I understand." I really hope this will all come to an end without incident. However, I have this creeping feeling that something bad is about to happen. ~NEXT SCENE~ And then the next day. After everyone finished eating breakfast and left for patrol. Chizuru Yukimura: “... Phew” After washing the bowls and pots that were used for breakfast, I took a deep breath. One of the other nice things that comes with spring, besides the beautiful cherry blossoms and young grasses– Is that the water isn’t as cold anymore when doing the dishes. Hachiro Iba: “Chizuru.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, Iba. Good morning." “Are you here again today?” Hachiro Iba: "Yes. Since I'm in Kyoto, I've been wanting to come visit you all." "Was Okita okay after what happened yesterday?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes... Nothing has happened so far. I apologize for worrying you.” Hachiro Iba: “Well, this all started because of the information I brought.” “I just hope Okita will calm down soon.” "What has Toshi been up to?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I think he’s probably working in his room..." "Shall I go get him for you?" Hachiro Iba: "No need, I don’t want to get in the way of his work." "I’ll go see him when he has his hand free." Just then… Souji Okita: "... Oh, Iba. You’re here today as well?" Hachiro Iba: "Good morning Okita." Souji Okita: “Do you have any other business other than what we talked about yesterday?” “The shogun retainers sure have a lot of free time. While we're struggling because of the lack of manpower." Hachiro Iba: "It's not like I had time to come to Kyoto..." “But even so, I have some flexibility when it comes to my work.” “Some Kyoto Shoshidai and other retainers of the shogun have asked me for various things.” Souji Okita: "Did they ask you to come here and find out the inner workings of the Shinsengumi?" Chizuru Yukimura: “O-Okita…!” Souji Okita: “It seems that Iba and the others aren’t enemies of the Shinsengumi.” "That's why it doesn't feel good that they’re gathering info on us." Okita’s overly direct counterattack made me shudder… Hachiro Iba: "I do apologize for that Okita... But Toshi is aware of the circumstances around that." The moment Hijikata's name was mentioned, Okita's face became more bitter. Kanryusai Takeda: “Okita, so this is where you were!” Souji Okita: "... Do you need me for something?" Kanryusai Takeda: "I heard about Tani's case." "It's unbecoming for a Shinsengumi executive to spread something like that and that without permission.” “Chief Kondo must be feeling a pain in his heart.” Souji Okita: "... You’re probably right." Kanryusai Takeda: "That considered..." Takeda carefully checked the surroundings before he started talking again. Kanryusai Takeda: "... If you’re planning to kill Tani, I think I can lend a hand." Souji Okita: "... Planning to kill?" -Takeda gave a big nod at Okita's question. Kanryusai Takeda: "He has gone too far this time... I think this is clearly an act that violates the Rules of Conduct." "That Tani... not only causing trouble for the Shinsengumi but also for the Kondo family." "If I’m right, aren't you going to take over the Tennen Rishin style?" Souji Okita: "... Don’t know, who knows." Kanryusai Takeda: "... Okita. Why are you acting like this is someone else's business?" "Aren't you the one who was considered to be Chief Kondo's successor?" "The current situation is as good as being neglected." Okita listened to Takeda with a plain expresion, but… Souji Okita: "... Hey Takeda. Who told you all of this?" Okita asked the same question that I secretly had. Hijikata explicitly told us not to talk about Tani's case. And yet, he knows about it… Kanryusai Takeda: "... You have to keep this a secret, but I heard it from Itou." “It seems that the Chief had consulted with him about Tani’s case.” “Itou also said that Tani’s recent behavior has been quite unsatisfactory.” Souji Okita: "I see. So it was him, huh..." Though he spoke in a soft tone. It was clear to me that Okita was really angry. Kashitaro Itou: "Oh, Takeda, Okita, and Yukimura. Well this is a rare combination." Kanryusai Takeda: "Itou...!" Kashitaro Itou: "And you are... Hachiro Iba, right?" "I would like to formally introduce myself. I am Kashitaro Itou, deputy commander of the Shinsengumi." “I used to run a Hokushin Ittō-ryu dojo in Fukagawa, Edo, and I came here because of a connection.” “It’s a pleasure to finally formally make your acquaintance.” Hachiro Iba: "I am Hachiro Iba, a retainer of the shogunate. Nice to meet you.” Kashitaro Itou: "I've had several matches with Shingata swordsmen." Hachiro Iba: "Is that so? If you’re interested, please stop by the dojo in Edo." Before long, Itou's gaze shifted to Okita. Kashitaro Itou: "... Tani's case seems to be causing a lot of trouble." "If there is anything I can do for you, please call me anytime." Souji Okita: "... I don't have any business with you." Kashitaro Itou: "The Shinsengumi may be a ronin unit, but they are still under the custody of the shogunate. So family conflicts are forbidden..." "If it's a samurai family, it could lead to the extinction of the family." On the surface, he seems to be worried about the Shinsengumi... But I couldn't feel the slightest hint of sympathy or pity from Itou's gaze. It's like he’s enjoying this conflict's developments… Okita seemed to have noticed as well, and glared at Itou. However, Itou shrugged off Okita's gaze. Kashitaro Itou: "Well then, have a good day everyone." And just like that, he gracefully walked away. Kanryusai Takeda: "Please wait, Itou. There is something I would like to discuss..." Takeda disappeared as he ran after Itou. Okita glared at the direction the two had vanished and spoke up with an annoyed tone. Souji Okita: "... How did this happen? How do they know about that?" "Sigh, it looks like Tani isn't the only one I have to kill." "It seems that I have to kill Itou as well." Okita tries to walk away– But Iba grabbed him by the shoulder. Hachiro Iba: "Please calm down, Okita." Then Okita violently shakes off Iba's hand. Souji Okita: "What are you talking about? I'm calm." Hachiro Iba: "Well you don't look calm right now." “… Besides, I am also responsible for this incident.” Souji Okita: "You’re not even a member of the Shinsengumi, so don't get in my way." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…!” Hachiro Iba: "It's true that I'm not a member of the Shinsengumi." "But I do know Kondo, Toshi, and everyone else." "And I can imagine how sad they would be if you acted prematurely." Souji Okita: "...... I never said I would do anything prematurely." "I just can't forgive people who are just having fun like that." Chizuru Yukimura: “... Okita.” "Let's ask Hijikata about what Takeda and Itou said earlier." Hachiro Iba: "...That's right. Kondo may have just consulted with Itou." Okita didn't move for a while… But after some time, he took a deep breath and dropped his shoulders. Souji Okita: "... Being the Shinsengumi's sword is a strange position, isn’t it?" "I can't even choose when and who to kill with my own will." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” When I saw Okita whispering such sad, self-deprecating words, I felt a pain in my chest. ~NEXT SCENE~ Toshizo Hijikata: "... Hmm, I see. So that’s what Takeda and Itou said." “Kondo seems to have been troubled by Tani’s behavior for quite some time.” Souji Okita: "That means–" “That Itou thought it would be funny and told Takeda what Kondo told him in confidence.” “So instead of trying to help solve the problem, Itou is just having fun by telling people about it.” "I’m sure he’s doing it on purpose... I won't forgive him for that." Hachiro Iba: "Okita... you're overthinking things." Okita's theories may be a bit extreme. But when I think back on Itou's attitude and the recent events… Okita might be right about this. Toshizo Hijikata: "... So what, are you gonna let Itou provoke you? That might be exactly what he wants from you.” Souji Okita: "Well isn’t it your job to find a solution to this problem?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Why the hell do you think I’m discussing this with you guys right now?!" Not only is Hijikata having to deal with Tani, Takeda and Itou… But he seems to be troubled by the fact that people he cannot trust are acting selfishly. Toshizo Hijikata: "... Putting that aside for a second." “The other day, Shinpachi was also talking about you becoming Kondo’s adopted son… What are your thoughts on that?” Souji Okita: "Please don't make me repeat myself over and over again." "I won't take over Tennen Rishin-ryu until Kondo is old as heck." Toshizo Hijikata: "We’re living in some very uncertain times right now." "It would be better to have a plan in case of an emergency." Souji Okita: "I don’t care." “Besides, you and Kondo become blood-brothers by exchanging a cup of sake, right?” "If that's the case, won't you and I become relatives? No way I would want that to happen." Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, you punk... Stop joking around and start taking this seriously." Souji Okita: "I AM taking this seriously. Besides..." “I was just talking about the current situation.” “No matter what happens, I get the feeling that Kondo will never die.” "That's why I won't be adopted. Became there will never be an emergency." -After saying it flatly, Okita stood up. Toshizo Hijikata: "Where are you going?" Souji Okita: "I’ve got to go train for the soldiers. But if you don’t want me to go, I’ll just stay here.” Toshizo Hijikata: "No, it's good that you're motivated to do your duty..." Souji Okita: "I'm not doing this for your sake. Well, see ya." Hachiro Iba: "Wait, Okita. Would it be alright if I accompanied you?" Souji Okita: "You? Why would you want to come along?" Hachiro Iba: “I would like to observe your training sessions and learn from them." Souji Okita: “The Shinsengumi's training is not a spectacle." “Since you came all the way to Kyoto, why don’t you ask Hijikata to deal with you?” Okita just leaves the room, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "Hachiro, please take care of Souji." Following Hijikata’s words, Iba stood up. Hachiro Iba: "Please wait, Okita!" And so Iba followed after Okita. He said he wanted to see the Shinsengumi training, but… I'm sure Iba is more worried about Okita than he is interested in the training. Considering the current situation, I’m a bit worried as well. Toshizo Hijikata: "Sorry we got you involved in this mess, Yukimura." "Leave this matter to us. But if you notice anything about Souji, let me know." Hijikata probably doesn't want me to get involved in this matter. In that case, I should leave the room as soon as I can… Chizuru Yukimura: “Um…” Curious, I opened my mouth. Chizuru Yukimura: "About Tani... Is it really gonna be okay?” Hijikata sighed at my question as if he wasn’t sure how to answer. But after a short silence… Toshizo Hijikata: "... It's going to be complicated, but we have to do something about it." From his expression and tone of voice, I sensed the seriousness of the situation, and it made me feel even more worried. ~NEXT SCENE~ It was almost noon when I was finally able to do the tasks I should have done in the morning. That is– to clear the table from Sannan's room. Because Sannan wakes up in the middle of the night, I bring him his breakfast after everyone's dinner. And one of my jobs is to clean up the finished meal the next morning. Sometimes I get sent away when he doesn't have an appetite… Last night, Sannan was in a good mood, and he ate properly. After this, I have to clean up this tray so that no one can find out about it. While I was thinking this as I was carrying… Sanjuro Tani: "Yo, Yukimura. What are you doing in a place like this?" Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” My heart almost stopped when I was greeted by an unexpected person. Chizuru Yukimura: “Tani…?” Why is he here? Could it be that he was watching me…? Anyway, I have to get past him before he starts asking questions. Chizuru Yukimura: "... I'm in a hurry, so if you’ll excuse me." Just as I tried to move past him… Tani stopped me by grabbing my shoulder. Sanjuro Tani: "Hold up. Don't think you can just run away like that." Chizuru Yukimura: “.......” I wonder what he wants… Is he going to ask me anything about Kondo or anything about the ‘adopted child’ business? I prepared myself while waiting for him to continue talking… Sanjuro Tani: "There is something I wanna ask… Is there someone sick in the back of this corridor?" Chizuru Yukimura: “What…!?” I felt my heart thud loudly inside my chest. Sanjuro Tani: "Don’t act so surprised... I've seen you carrying a tray like that down this corridor several times now." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” I felt my blood run cold, and a cold sweat began to run down my neck. This is bad. I have to keep the fact that Sannan is staying there completely hidden. But just now, Tani said he saw me go down the corridor several times. Does that mean he has been watching me all this time...? Sanjuro Tani: "I’ve tried asking Sanosuke and the other officers, but..." "Every time I ask, they say that they don’t know anything and that it’s just a misunderstanding, they won't take me seriously." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” So that's why he approached me... In order to prevent me from dodging the question, he called out to me while I was carrying the tray. So this entire time he was watching me while waiting for an opportunity to approach me…? Chizuru Yukimura: "... I don't know what you're talking about." "I'm just carrying it because I was asked to… Excuse me!" Sanjuro Tani: “H-Hey! Hold it!” I managed to run past Tani. I have to tell this to one of the captains as soon as possible. ~NEXT SCENE~ After clearing the tray, I came to the common room– Genzaburou Inoue: "Oh, Yukimura, what's wrong? You’re looking kind of pale..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Inoue, do you know where Hijikata is?" Genzaburou Inoue: "If you’re looking for Toshi, he's out for a meeting with someone." Chizuru Yukimura: "Then what about the others?" Genzaburou Inoue: "I think they’re out on patrol... Did something happen?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Actually…" I told Inoue about what had just happened. Genzaburou Inoue: "I see, so that's what happened... We’ll have to do something about that." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. I have a bad feeling about this." Until Hijikata comes back, we’ll have to do something about this... As I was thinking that. Hachiro Iba: “Thank you very much for today Okita.” "Your regular training was very interesting to watch. It was a great learning experience." Souji Okita: "It's not like I'm training just so you get to study." Hachiro Iba: "Yes, I know. But that doesn’t change the fact that I learned a lot." Genzaburou Inoue: “Souji, Iba! You've got perfect timing." Souji Okita: "What is it? Do you need something from me?" Inoue nodded, and after confirming that no one was nearby, he began to speak. Genzaburou Inoue: “... Yukimura, if you please." Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright, actually…" Souji Okita: "... Tani, you really couldn't just keep it by bothering Kondo, could you?" "If we don't do something about that guy quickly, the situation will only get worse and worse." Hachiro Iba: "I'm sure Toshi is doing everything he can to protect the Shinsengumi." Souji Okita: "What would we do if Tani hijacked the Shinsengumi or finds out about our secrets?" Genzaburou Inoue: “Please calm down, Souji…” "Blaming Toshi won't make things better." Souji Okita: “Well then, why don’t you think about what to do, Gen.” Genzaburou Inoue: "You’re right, hmmm..." Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru, there is something I want to ask." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, what is it?" Hachiro Iba: "Considering the fact that he tried to question you–" "Can we assume that Tani hasn't found out about Sannan yet?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Probably..." Souji Okita: "It will be too late if he finds out. Before that happens, we have to kick him out of here." Genzaburou Inoue: "Souji, how are you planning to get rid of him?" Souji Okita: "I don't need a plan, I’ll just make him disappear." Genzaburou Inoue: “... That won’t do. Don’t forget that Tani is still an executive." “Besides, Itou and the others aren’t blind.” It is as Inoue said… Tani is the Captain of the 7th Division. His younger brother is a master of the spear, and is entrusted with the Osaka garrison. Hachiro Iba: “… For the time being, why don’t we let somebody be her escort, in case Tani tries to question her again?” “If you have someone with you without making it obvious they are an escort, it will be difficult for him to approach you, he’ll probably have a hard time keeping an eye on you.” "Sinds Tani is suspicious of the depths of the camp, let's inform everyone else when they get back.” Genzaburou Inoue: "That's right. Let’s talk to Nagakura, Saito and others when they get back." Souji Okita: "What a pain. If he’s suspicious of Sannan’s situation, it would be quicker to kill him." Hachiro Iba: "That’s too risky. If something like that were to happen, Itou will realize there's something there." Souji Okita: "Then... I’ll just kill Itou as well." Genzaburou Inoue: "If that were to happen, we wouldn’t only have to deal with Itou, but all the members of his faction as well." Hachiro Iba: "That's why we can’t just get rid of him." Souji Okita: “........ I know that." Genzaburou Inoue: "That right, I knew you would understand." Hachiro Iba: "Well then... Our first priority at the moment is to protect her from Tani." "That said, we can’t all escort her together." Genzaburou Inoue: "You’re right, Tani could get suspicious." Hachiro Iba: "In that case, I think it's fine if she has at least one person by her side." "Chizuru. Please choose who you want to be your escort." Chizuru Yukimura: "You want me to choose?" Hachiro Iba: "That’s right. It would be best to let the person being escorted choose this kind of thing." Chizuru Yukimura: "Then..." Ask Okita. Ask Iba. Ask Inoue.

Check out the translated video! What should I do…? Check on Okita. Attend to Iba. Go back to my tasks. I'm worried about Okita, but… I have to show hospitality to Iba, who had rushed over to visit the Shinsengumi. Chizuru Yukimura: “I’ll go and prepare you another cup of tea.” Hachiro Iba: "Don't worry, that’s not necessary." Chizuru Yukimura: "But..." Toshizo Hijikata: "By the way, Hachiro. Since you seemed to have rushed over here in a hurry, have you had anything to eat yet?" Hachiro Iba: "Ah... Come to think of it, I completely forgot to eat." “I was so focused on telling everyone about the matter as soon as possible, that it didn’t even cross my mind.” Toshizo Hijikata: "... I figured as much. Once you set your mind on something you can’t think of anything else." Hachiro Iba: "... You're completely right. How embarrassing." Toshizo Hijikata: "Yukimura, go prepare Hachiro something to eat." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, I understand." Hachiro Iba: “Huh? You mean…” “Chizuru, is going to cook something, just for me?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. Although I’m not sure it will suit your tastes." Hachiro Iba: "No, it doesn't matter if it suits my tastes or not…" Toshizo Hijikata: "Don't worry, Hachiro will happily eat anything you make, Yukimura." Chizuru Yukimura: “What?” Hachiro Iba: "T-Toshi! What are you talking about!" “She might misunderstand when you say things like that…!” Toshizo Hijikata: "Well, anyway, make sure to feed this guy something." Chizuru Yukimura: “Alright.” Hachiro Iba: T-Thanks! I’ll be in your care!” Iba seems to be very happy... I wonder if he’s really hungry. Chizuru Yukimura: "I'll go prepare it right away, so please wait a while." I headed to the kitchen so I could start preparing the food. ~NEXT SCENE~ Chizuru Yukimura: “Let’s see, we still have some pickles and dried fish…” The rice is cold, but maybe it's okay if I soak it in hot water. After confirming the remaining ingredients I could use, I could start preparing the meal. Hachiro Iba: "Um... pardon the intrusion. I hope I’m not bothering you by coming here." Chizuru Yukimura: "Iba? It’s all right..." "What's wrong? Do you need something?" Hachiro Iba: "No, I don't particularly need anything, but..." "I just felt a little useless just waiting around." "So I was wondering if there's anything I can do to help out." Chizuru Yukimura: "There’s no need to do that…!" "You’re a guest, I couldn't possibly ask you to help out." Hachiro Iba: “But you usually cook together with the others, don’t you? So let me help you out…” Chizuru Yukimura: "Don’t worry, I'm used to it. It’ll be done in just a little while." Hachiro Iba: "... Is that so? That's a bit disappointing, but it can't be helped." Chizuru Yukimura: “More importantly, how was your conversation with Hijikata?” Hachiro Iba: “He had to leave because he had something to do, so I was left to my own devices.” Chizuru Yukimura: "I see, so that’s what happened..." Being left alone while waiting in an unfamiliar place, it would be difficult not to feel even a little anxious… Hachiro Iba: "Ah, is this the pot you will be using? Shall I prepare it for you?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Um… Iba, do you have any cooking experience?” Hachiro Iba: "Not really, usually someone does it back home. But today is special, so I'm thinking of trying to help out." Chizuru Yukimura: "I see... Thank you for your consideration, but it's fine." “Iba, please just wait in the common room.” Hachiro Iba: "...I see, I understand." "Well, I'm looking forward to what kind of food you’re gonna prepare." Chizuru Yukimura: "Right, I will do my best." Even though he said it kindly, I wonder if I did something bad... But Iba is still our guest. Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah, that’s right..." Ever since Iba came here, he’s probably been eating only Kyoto cuisine, so I wonder if he misses the flavors of Edo... Maybe that's why he was so curious about the food I’m preparing. So I should make something with the usual Edo-style seasoning... As I was thinking that. Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru, here is something I forgot to tell you." Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh... what is it?" Hachiro Iba: “If possible, I would like to ask for Edo-style seasoning instead of Kyoto-style.” "Actually, ever since I came here, I've only had Kyoto-style seasonings." "Ah, it’s not that Kyoto's cuisine and seasonings aren’t delicious, I quite like them!" "But this is an opportunity for me to have someone from Edo cook for me." Chizuru Yukimura: "Of course. I was just thinking about doing that." Hachiro Iba: "Really?... So we were thinking the same thing. That makes me kinda happy." Chizuru Yukimura: "Hehe... It seems so." Hachiro Iba: "Also... I wanted to tell you that I'm really looking forward to your cooking." Chizuru Yukimura: "... Got it. Please leave it to me!" Hachiro Iba: "Thank you. I'm looking forward to it." Chizuru Yukimura: "... I'm sure that since coming here, and seeing everyone again, he may feel nostalgic for the taste of home." After talking to Iba, I'm sure he’s feeling nostalgic for Edo... Or maybe it's because I’m the one who’s making it? I’m not really sure, but I’ll make sure he gets to enjoy the taste of Edo cuisine. ~NEXT SCENE~ Chizuru Yukimura: "Thank you for waiting, Iba. Your meal is ready." Hachiro Iba: "Ah, thank you very much." Chizuru Yukimura: "I put it together with some leftovers, so I'm not sure how it will taste..." Hachiro Iba: “Well, you're the one who made it, so I’m sure it will be delicious!” Chizuru Yukimura: "That's... please taste it first." Hachiro Iba: "Is this... Tsukushi's ohitashi?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, it's really tasty." Hachiro Iba: "And what is this?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Those are the pickles that I usually serve to the soldiers." “Um… Iba?” Hachiro Iba: "What is it?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I’ve noticed this since a while ago, but you've been looking at my face instead of the food..." Hachiro Iba: "Well of course. I was taught to look at the other person's face when they’re talking." But I feel self-conscious when you keep staring at me like that. Chizuru Yukimura: "P-please enjoy your meal." Feeling flustered, I hastily put the tray in front of him. -Picture- Hachiro Iba: "Well then, thank you for the meal." "Oh, it's delicious! The saltiness and soy sauce are just right." Chizuru Yukimura: "Really? I'm glad to hear that." Hachiro Iba: "Before I came to Kyoto, I’ve had various regional dishes..." “But even still, I like the familiar flavor of Edo-style seasoning the most.” "It is after all the taste of my hometown, the place where I was born and raised." Chizuru Yukimura: "That is certainly very understandable." Hachiro Iba: "These pickles are also very delicious." Chizuru Yukimura: “Well the vegetables here in Kyoto are delicious.” Hachiro Iba: “Although the quality of the vegetables themselves is certainly good…” “I think it’s the skill of the cook that makes these so tasty.” Chizuru Yukimura: "You think so…?" Because Iba compliments me every time he takes a bite out of something... It made me feel pretty embarrassed as I listened to him singing my praise. Chizuru Yukimura: “There are some vegetables that they don’t have in Edo, so I was a bit confused at first.” Hachiro Iba: "That's right. Ever since I came here, I've seen vegetables I had never eaten before." "But now here I am, enjoying those vegetables with Edo-style seasoning. It is a strange feeling." "Hmm… delicious… This is just the kind of meal I wanted." As he was eating his meal, he let out an unexpected comment. -Picture- Hachiro Iba: "So all the soldiers get to eat your home cooking like this every day..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh? Ah, yes..." "Well, not all for the soldiers, only for some of the captains..." “But it might be the case for all the Shiei Hal guys.” Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru. Would it be alright if I were to stay here forever?" Chizuru Yukimura: “What!?” I was at a loss for words by Iba’s sudden and outrageous request. What had gotten into him all of a sudden...!? Hachiro Iba: “Because if I do that, I’ll be able to enjoy your cooking every day, right?” "I could help you when something happens, and maybe we could even cook together." Chizuru Yukimura: “B-but Iba, don’t you work directly under the shogunate?” Hachiro Iba: "Yes, but—" "Whether I’m working as an Okuzume or working for the Shinsengumi won’t change that fact that I am, in a sense, still working for the shogunate." What on earth is going on. It’s rather unusual for him to be so desperate. Why is he set on having all his meals here? ... Does he miss the taste of Edo so much? Chizuru Yukimura: “B-But—” If this keeps up, he might make a decision he can’t undo. Chizuru Yukimura: "Everyone is grateful that you use your position as Okuzume to help the Shinsengumi." “Besides, aren't you going to inherit your family dojo and become the next head of your family?” "If you join the Shinsengumi, you won't be able to do that." Hachiro Iba: "Well... you do have a point." Chizuru Yukimura: “You’ve been a big help to Kondo, Hijikata, and even me.” Hachiro Iba: "I... was of help to you?" Chizuru Yukimura: “Of course!” "You’re helping us in ways only you can help." “Don’t you think it’s fine to focus on the things only you can from now on…?” Hachiro Iba: "I see... The things only I can do." For a while Iba just nodded in agreement… Hachiro Iba: "Something I can do aside from joining the Shinsengumi..." "Maybe I should make preparations to someday be able to welcome a wonderful bride." Chizuru Yukimura: "What's that...?" I was shocked to hear him suddenly say ‘wonderful bride’. ... No, I'm sure his words don't have a deep meaning. Iba is a hatamoto and the heir to a large dojo. In the future, he will marry someone his parents chose for him. But what does the Shinsengumi have to do with Iba's future wife...? Hachiro Iba: "Ah... In other words, what I mean is that I hope I can serve as a vassal of the shogunate by taking over the Iba family." -Maybe this is something I shouldn't think too deeply about. Chizuru Yukimura: “I-Is that so… Well when that time comes, I hope you will have a wonderful marriage.” -Picture- Hachiro Iba: "... Yes. I'll try my best to make that happen someday." Iba seemed to be convinced of something as he looked at me with a gentle gaze. Hachiro Iba: "...Thank you for the meal. It was really delicious." I didn't really understand why he’s smiling so happily… However, he seemed to have enjoyed his meal, so it appeared to have suited his tastes. I patted my chest in relief. Chizuru Yukimura: "Speaking of which, the cherry blossoms are really beautiful this time of year." "I highly recommend admiring Kyoto’s cherry blossoms." “The cherry blossoms in Edo are beautiful, but the cherry blossoms here are also very stunning.” Hachiro Iba: "I see. I’ll admire them when I get some free time." “When that time comes, can I ask you to guide me to famous cherry blossom spots?” Chizuru Yukimura: "Of course, if you’ll have me." Hachiro Iba: "... I'm glad. I'm looking forward to it." Iba seems to be busier than usual… At the very least, it would be nice if he could take some time to leisurely admire the cherry blossoms. ~NEXT SCENE~ -And then the next day. After everyone finished eating breakfast and left for patrol. Chizuru Yukimura: “... Phew” After washing the bowls and pots that were used for breakfast, I took a deep breath. One of the other nice things that comes with spring, besides the beautiful cherry blossoms and young grasses– Is that the water isn’t as cold anymore when doing the dishes. Hachiro Iba: “Chizuru.” Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, Iba. Good morning." “Are you here again today?” Hachiro Iba: "Yes. Since I'm in Kyoto, I've been wanting to come visit you all." "Was Okita okay after what happened yesterday?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes... Nothing has happened so far. I apologize for worrying you.” Hachiro Iba: “Well, this all started because of the information I brought.” “I just hope Okita will calm down soon.” "What has Toshi been up to?" Chizuru Yukimura: "I think he’s probably working in his room..." "Shall I go get him for you?" Hachiro Iba: "No need, I don’t want to get in the way of his work." "I’ll go see him when he has his hand free." Just then… Souji Okita: "... Oh, Iba. You’re here today as well?" Hachiro Iba: "Good morning Okita." Souji Okita: “Do you have any other business other than what we talked about yesterday?” “The shogun retainers sure have a lot of free time. While we're struggling because of the lack of manpower." Hachiro Iba: "It's not like I had time to come to Kyoto..." “But even so, I have some flexibility when it comes to my work.” “Some Kyoto Shoshidai and other retainers of the shogun have asked me for various things.” Souji Okita: "Did they ask you to come here and find out the inner workings of the Shinsengumi?" Chizuru Yukimura: “O-Okita…!” Souji Okita: “It seems that Iba and the others aren’t enemies of the Shinsengumi.” "That's why it doesn't feel good that they’re gathering info on us." Okita’s overly direct counterattack made me shudder… Hachiro Iba: "I do apologize for that Okita... But Toshi is aware of the circumstances around that." The moment Hijikata's name was mentioned, Okita's face became more bitter. Kanryusai Takeda: “Okita, so this is where you were!” Souji Okita: "... Do you need me for something?" Kanryusai Takeda: "I heard about Tani's case." "It's unbecoming for a Shinsengumi executive to spread something like that and that without permission.” “Chief Kondo must be feeling a pain in his heart.” Souji Okita: "... You’re probably right." Kanryusai Takeda: "That considered..." Takeda carefully checked the surroundings before he started talking again. Kanryusai Takeda: "... If you’re planning to kill Tani, I think I can lend a hand." Souji Okita: "... Planning to kill?" Takeda gave a big nod at Okita's question. Kanryusai Takeda: "He has gone too far this time... I think this is clearly an act that violates the Rules of Conduct." "That Tani... not only causing trouble for the Shinsengumi but also for the Kondo family." "If I’m right, aren't you going to take over the Tennen Rishin style?" Souji Okita: "... Don’t know, who knows." Kanryusai Takeda: "... Okita. Why are you acting like this is someone else's business?" "Aren't you the one who was considered to be Chief Kondo's successor?" "The current situation is as good as being neglected." Okita listened to Takeda with a plain expresion, but… Souji Okita: "... Hey Takeda. Who told you all of this?" Okita asked the same question that I secretly had. Hijikata explicitly told us not to talk about Tani's case. And yet, he knows about it… Kanryusai Takeda: "... You have to keep this a secret, but I heard it from Itou." “It seems that the Chief had consulted with him about Tani’s case.” “Itou also said that Tani’s recent behavior has been quite unsatisfactory.” Souji Okita: "I see. So it was him, huh..." Though he spoke in a soft tone. It was clear to me that Okita was really angry. Kashitaro Itou: "Oh, Takeda, Okita, and Yukimura. Well this is a rare combination." Kanryusai Takeda: "Itou...!" Kashitaro Itou: "And you are... Hachiro Iba, right?" "I would like to formally introduce myself. I am Kashitaro Itou, deputy commander of the Shinsengumi." “I used to run a Hokushin Ittō-ryu dojo in Fukagawa, Edo, and I came here because of a connection.” “It’s a pleasure to finally formally make your acquaintance.” Hachiro Iba: "I am Hachiro Iba, a retainer of the shogunate. Nice to meet you.” Kashitaro Itou: "I've had several matches with Shingata swordsmen." Hachiro Iba: "Is that so? If you’re interested, please stop by the dojo in Edo." Before long, Itou's gaze shifted to Okita. Kashitaro Itou: "... Tani's case seems to be causing a lot of trouble." "If there is anything I can do for you, please call me anytime." Souji Okita: "... I don't have any business with you." Kashitaro Itou: "The Shinsengumi may be a ronin unit, but they are still under the custody of the shogunate. So family conflicts are forbidden..." "If it's a samurai family, it could lead to the extinction of the family." On the surface, he seems to be worried about the Shinsengumi... But I couldn't feel the slightest hint of sympathy or pity from Itou's gaze. It's like he’s enjoying this conflict's developments… Okita seemed to have noticed as well, and glared at Itou. However, Itou shrugged off Okita's gaze. Kashitaro Itou: "Well then, have a good day everyone." And just like that, he gracefully walked away. Kanryusai Takeda: "Please wait, Itou. There is something I would like to discuss..." Takeda disappeared as he ran after Itou. Okita glared at the direction the two had vanished and spoke up with an annoyed tone. Souji Okita: "... How did this happen? How do they know about that?" "Sigh, it looks like Tani isn't the only one I have to kill." "It seems that I have to kill Itou as well." Okita tries to walk away– But Iba grabbed him by the shoulder. Hachiro Iba: "Please calm down, Okita." Then Okita violently shakes off Iba's hand. Souji Okita: "What are you talking about? I'm calm." Hachiro Iba: "Well you don't look calm right now." “… Besides, I am also responsible for this incident.” Souji Okita: "You’re not even a member of the Shinsengumi, so don't get in my way." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…!” Hachiro Iba: "It's true that I'm not a member of the Shinsengumi." "But I do know Kondo, Toshi, and everyone else." "And I can imagine how sad they would be if you acted prematurely." Souji Okita: "...... I never said I would do anything prematurely." "I just can't forgive people who are just having fun like that." Chizuru Yukimura: “... Okita.” "Let's ask Hijikata about what Takeda and Itou said earlier." Hachiro Iba: "...That's right. Kondo may have just consulted with Itou." -Okita didn't move for a while… -But after some time, he took a deep breath and dropped his shoulders. Souji Okita: "... Being the Shinsengumi's sword is a strange position, isn’t it?" "I can't even choose when and who to kill with my own will." Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita…” When I saw Okita whispering such sad, self-deprecating words, I felt a pain in my chest. ~NEXT SCENE~ Toshizo Hijikata: "... Hmm, I see. So that’s what Takeda and Itou said." “Kondo seems to have been troubled by Tani’s behavior for quite some time.” Souji Okita: "That means–" “That Itou thought it would be funny and told Takeda what Kondo told him in confidence.” “So instead of trying to help solve the problem, Itou is just having fun by telling people about it.” "I’m sure he’s doing it on purpose... I won't forgive him for that." Hachiro Iba: "Okita... you're overthinking things." Okita's theories may be a bit extreme. But when I think back on Itou's attitude and the recent events… Okita might be right about this. Toshizo Hijikata: "... So what, are you gonna let Itou provoke you? That might be exactly what he wants from you.” Souji Okita: "Well isn’t it your job to find a solution to this problem?" Toshizo Hijikata: "Why the hell do you think I’m discussing this with you guys right now?!" Not only is Hijikata having to deal with Tani, Takeda and Itou… But he seems to be troubled by the fact that people he cannot trust are acting selfishly. Toshizo Hijikata: "... Putting that aside for a second." “The other day, Shinpachi was also talking about you becoming Kondo’s adopted son… What are your thoughts on that?” Souji Okita: "Please don't make me repeat myself over and over again." "I won't take over Tennen Rishin-ryu until Kondo is old as heck." Toshizo Hijikata: "We’re living in some very uncertain times right now." "It would be better to have a plan in case of an emergency." Souji Okita: "I don’t care." “Besides, you and Kondo become blood-brothers by exchanging a cup of sake, right?” "If that's the case, won't you and I become relatives? No way I would want that to happen." Toshizo Hijikata: "Souji, you punk... Stop joking around and start taking this seriously." Souji Okita: "I AM taking this seriously. Besides..." “I was just talking about the current situation.” “No matter what happens, I get the feeling that Kondo will never die.” "That's why I won't be adopted. Became there will never be an emergency." After saying it flatly, Okita stood up. Toshizo Hijikata: "Where are you going?" Souji Okita: "I’ve got to go train for the soldiers. But if you don’t want me to go, I’ll just stay here.” Toshizo Hijikata: "No, it's good that you're motivated to do your duty..." Souji Okita: "I'm not doing this for your sake. Well, see ya." Hachiro Iba: "Wait, Okita. Would it be alright if I accompanied you?" Souji Okita: "You? Why would you want to come along?" Hachiro Iba: “I would like to observe your training sessions and learn from them." Souji Okita: “The Shinsengumi's training is not a spectacle." “Since you came all the way to Kyoto, why don’t you ask Hijikata to deal with you?” Okita just leaves the room, but… Toshizo Hijikata: "Hachiro, please take care of Souji." Following Hijikata’s words, Iba stood up. Hachiro Iba: "Please wait, Okita!" And so Iba followed after Okita. He said he wanted to see the Shinsengumi training, but… I'm sure Iba is more worried about Okita than he is interested in the training. Considering the current situation, I’m a bit worried as well. Toshizo Hijikata: "Sorry we got you involved in this mess, Yukimura." "Leave this matter to us. But if you notice anything about Souji, let me know." Hijikata probably doesn't want me to get involved in this matter. In that case, I should leave the room as soon as I can… Chizuru Yukimura: “Um…” Curious, I opened my mouth. Chizuru Yukimura: "About Tani... Is it really gonna be okay?” Hijikata sighed at my question as if he wasn’t sure how to answer. But after a short silence… Toshizo Hijikata: "... It's going to be complicated, but we have to do something about it." From his expression and tone of voice, I sensed the seriousness of the situation, and it made me feel even more worried. ~NEXT SCENE~ It was almost noon when I was finally able to do the tasks I should have done in the morning. That is– to clear the table from Sannan's room. Because Sannan wakes up in the middle of the night, I bring him his breakfast after everyone's dinner. And one of my jobs is to clean up the finished meal the next morning. Sometimes I get sent away when he doesn't have an appetite… Last night, Sannan was in a good mood, and he ate properly. After this, I have to clean up this tray so that no one can find out about it. While I was thinking this as I was carrying… Sanjuro Tani: "Yo, Yukimura. What are you doing in a place like this?" Chizuru Yukimura: “...!” My heart almost stopped when I was greeted by an unexpected person. Chizuru Yukimura: “Tani…?” Why is he here? Could it be that he was watching me…? Anyway, I have to get past him before he starts asking questions. Chizuru Yukimura: "... I'm in a hurry, so if you’ll excuse me." Just as I tried to move past him… Tani stopped me by grabbing my shoulder. Sanjuro Tani: "Hold up. Don't think you can just run away like that." Chizuru Yukimura: “.......” I wonder what he wants… Is he going to ask me anything about Kondo or anything about the ‘adopted child’ business? I prepared myself while waiting for him to continue talking… Sanjuro Tani: "There is something I wanna ask… Is there someone sick in the back of this corridor?" Chizuru Yukimura: “What…!?” I felt my heart thud loudly inside my chest. Sanjuro Tani: "Don’t act so surprised... I've seen you carrying a tray like that down this corridor several times now." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” I felt my blood run cold, and a cold sweat began to run down my neck. This is bad. I have to keep the fact that Sannan is staying there completely hidden. But just now, Tani said he saw me go down the corridor several times. Does that mean he has been watching me all this time...? Sanjuro Tani: "I’ve tried asking Sanosuke and the other officers, but..." "Every time I ask, they say that they don’t know anything and that it’s just a misunderstanding, they won't take me seriously." Chizuru Yukimura: “......” So that's why he approached me... In order to prevent me from dodging the question, he called out to me while I was carrying the tray. So this entire time he was watching me while waiting for an opportunity to approach me…? Chizuru Yukimura: "... I don't know what you're talking about." "I'm just carrying it because I was asked to… Excuse me!" Sanjuro Tani: “H-Hey! Hold it!” I managed to run past Tani. I have to tell this to one of the captains as soon as possible. ~NEXT SCENE~ After clearing the tray, I came to the common room– Genzaburou Inoue: "Oh, Yukimura, what's wrong? You’re looking kind of pale..." Chizuru Yukimura: "Inoue, do you know where Hijikata is?" Genzaburou Inoue: "If you’re looking for Toshi, he's out for a meeting with someone." Chizuru Yukimura: "Then what about the others?" Genzaburou Inoue: "I think they’re out on patrol... Did something happen?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Actually…" I told Inoue about what had just happened. Genzaburou Inoue: "I see, so that's what happened... We’ll have to do something about that." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. I have a bad feeling about this." Until Hijikata comes back, we’ll have to do something about this... As I was thinking that. Hachiro Iba: “Thank you very much for today Okita.” "Your regular training was very interesting to watch. It was a great learning experience." Souji Okita: "It's not like I'm training just so you get to study." Hachiro Iba: "Yes, I know. But that doesn’t change the fact that I learned a lot." Genzaburou Inoue: “Souji, Iba! You've got perfect timing." Souji Okita: "What is it? Do you need something from me?" Inoue nodded, and after confirming that no one was nearby, he began to speak. Genzaburou Inoue: “... Yukimura, if you please." Chizuru Yukimura: "Alright, actually…" Souji Okita: "... Tani, you really couldn't just keep it by bothering Kondo, could you?" "If we don't do something about that guy quickly, the situation will only get worse and worse." Hachiro Iba: "I'm sure Toshi is doing everything he can to protect the Shinsengumi." Souji Okita: "What would we do if Tani hijacked the Shinsengumi or finds out about our secrets?" Genzaburou Inoue: “Please calm down, Souji…” "Blaming Toshi won't make things better." Souji Okita: “Well then, why don’t you think about what to do, Gen.” Genzaburou Inoue: "You’re right, hmmm..." Hachiro Iba: "Chizuru, there is something I want to ask." Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes, what is it?" Hachiro Iba: "Considering the fact that he tried to question you–" "Can we assume that Tani hasn't found out about Sannan yet?" Chizuru Yukimura: "Probably..." Souji Okita: "It will be too late if he finds out. Before that happens, we have to kick him out of here." Genzaburou Inoue: "Souji, how are you planning to get rid of him?" Souji Okita: "I don't need a plan, I’ll just make him disappear." Genzaburou Inoue: “... That won’t do. Don’t forget that Tani is still an executive." “Besides, Itou and the others aren’t blind.” It is as Inoue said… Tani is the Captain of the 7th Division. His younger brother is a master of the spear, and is entrusted with the Osaka garrison. Hachiro Iba: “… For the time being, why don’t we let somebody be her escort, in case Tani tries to question her again?” “If you have someone with you without making it obvious they are an escort, it will be difficult for him to approach you, he’ll probably have a hard time keeping an eye on you.” "Sinds Tani is suspicious of the depths of the camp, let's inform everyone else when they get back.” Genzaburou Inoue: "That's right. Let’s talk to Nagakura, Saito and others when they get back." Souji Okita: "What a pain. If he’s suspicious of Sannan’s situation, it would be quicker to kill him." Hachiro Iba: "That’s too risky. If something like that were to happen, Itou will realize there's something there." Souji Okita: "Then... I’ll just kill Itou as well." Genzaburou Inoue: "If that were to happen, we wouldn’t only have to deal with Itou, but all the members of his faction as well." Hachiro Iba: "That's why we can’t just get rid of him." Souji Okita: “........ I know that." Genzaburou Inoue: "That right, I knew you would understand." Hachiro Iba: "Well then... Our first priority at the moment is to protect her from Tani." "That said, we can’t all escort her together." Genzaburou Inoue: "You’re right, Tani could get suspicious." Hachiro Iba: "In that case, I think it's fine if she has at least one person by her side." "Chizuru. Please choose who you want to be your escort." Chizuru Yukimura: "You want me to choose?" Hachiro Iba: "That’s right. It would be best to let the person being escorted choose this kind of thing." Chizuru Yukimura: "Then..." Ask Okita. Ask Iba. Ask Inoue.