Synopsis

Though achieving a few victories in Futamata-guchi, Hijikata's forces suffered a defeat at Matsumae-guchi, forcing a retreat before the enemy arrived. As renewed conflict loomed, he recognized his body could not endure much longer. In Benten Daiba, he encountered Shimada and Ootori, the latter burdened by guilt over the loss at Matsumae-guchi. Hijikata reassured him, offering a firm handshake in understanding. Later, in private, Hijikata confessed his feelings to Chizuru, culminating in a kiss.