Blood Thicker Than Water Can Be Diluted
"Good morning, Vice-Chief!" Tetsunosuke knelt down in the open doorway of Hijikata's quarters. "I brought you an energy-boosting mid-morning snack! An apple and a new bottle of mayonnaise! I noticed you were low on it this morning at breakfast!"
Cross-legged on the floor, Hijikata didn't look up from his reading. "Take the apple. Leave the mayonnaise."
"Yes, sir!" Tetsunosuke pocketed the apple for himself and placed the mayonnaise bottle just inside the room. "Anything else I can do for you? Do you need reading glasses? A fan? It is quite warm today."
"No, thanks."
"Or how about a massage?"
"No."
"Very well, sir," Tetsunosuke said quickly, sensing impending doom if he didn't cut his inquiries short, "I finished re-organizing shelves C to D in the archives. You were right – they were sloppily put back after being used with papers sticking out and files in the wrong order. I also found an empty anpan wrapper stuffed in between some boxes."
"Bring Yamazaki to me in an hour."
"Yes, sir!" The underlying threat in Hijikata's tone made Tetsunosuke shudder, thanking the gods he wasn't in trouble this time. "Shall I continue re-organizing?"
"Yes—wait." Hijikata looked up this time and reached for a small slip of paper off his desk. "Go get last week's log reports from these captains. They're late and if they don't have them completed by the time you ask, they're going to be punished alongside Yamazaki."
Tetsunosuke was about to stand up and retrieve the list when somebody yelled from the courtyard:
"Code 31! Code 31!"
Hijikata let out an exasperated sigh and stood to his feet, dropping the report onto his desk. "Damn it, not again," he grumbled, walking out of his quarters. Tetsunosuke followed suit.
Outside, soldiers were running back and forth, alerting others about Code 31. Some were sweeping the veranda and pruning the trees as well as gathering trash bags from around the complex.
Hijikata seized the shoulder of the first soldier running past his quarters. "What are you doing?"
The soldier winced at Hijikata's sharp tone and replied, "Cleaning up, Vice-Chief! Last time she was here, she scolded us for slacking on cleaning duty and made us scrub down every place she saw dust or stains!"
That must've been before Tetsunosuke had joined. He had heard of this Shimura Tae over the past few months, but hadn't personally encountered her yet. But everyone knew Kondou adored her and most of the Shinsengumi seemed to defer to her orders in fear much like they did for Hijikata.
Hijikata shoved him aside. "Ridiculous! You shouldn't need her to tell you to do that when I've told you a hundred times already! Where is Kumanaku? He wouldn't slack off on his cleaning duties."
"He's polishing the urinals again!" The soldier saluted quickly. "Sorry, Vice-Chief, I've got to go wash the dojo floors!" He spun on his heel and sprinted down the veranda.
Hijikata gripped the side of the doorframe until it splintered in his hands, and growled in a low voice, "Thinks she can run this place better than I can, does she?"
"Sir?"
Like a wolf, Hijikata snapped his gaze to Tetsunosuke, startling him like a rabbit. "Tetsu!"
"Sir!"
"Go find Kondou-san and tell him—"
A distant explosion rocked the compound briefly, and shouts of "She's here! Code 31 emergency!" filled the air along with a plume of dust and smoke.
"Shit! Come on." Hijikata slipped into his boots and raced down the courtyard, Tetsunosuke following closing behind. "I have a feeling Kondou-san isn't even here…"
"I didn't see him at breakfast, sir!"
"Damn it!"
The other unspoken, troubling issue besides the potential rampage was Kondou's habitual stalking of Tae. Tetsunosuke had heard Hijikata lecture Kondou on quitting numerous times, but bad habits proved hard to break. For awhile, Kondou had been doing well, choosing to vie for her affections like a normal person without overstepping his boundaries.
Today he had failed, evidently.
They dashed around the corner and froze.
Pink kimono bright against the backdrop of smoke and debris with her soft brown ponytail fluttering in the breeze behind her was Shimura Tae, dragging their leader across the ground with one hand.
"Kondou-san!"
"Chief!"
"Good morning, Hijikata-san," Tae said brightly, and Tetsunosuke would have seen her as a simple friendly woman if not for the icy edge in her tone and the chill that ran down his spine at the sight of her smile. "I took the liberty of using the back door today."
"There is no back door!"
Dropping Kondou to the ground, Tae touched a finger to her lips. "Really? I could have sworn there was. Kondou-san was even so kind as to open it for me."
Kondou lifted a shaking finger up before he peeled his face off the ground with a grin. "Actually, she threw me into the wall." He yelped when she pressed his upper body to the ground with a foot, and added, "But we needed a door back there, anyway, so Otae-chan did us a favour by getting the space ready!"
"How about doing us the favour of not destroying property and dragging our leader around the district in his nightwear?!"
"Oh, certainly – as soon as you pay for the damages inflicted on my dojo and teach your leader to have some manners," Tae replied smoothly, removing her foot from Kondou's back and crossing her arms. "I found him in the tool shed. That'll be 450,000 yen for repairs, supplies, and maintenance, plus an extra tip for my personally returning him to you and causing me to miss the rest of Kendo Cop's newest episode today. I believe you have my banking information already."
Tetsunosuke stared in awe at this woman who had swept into the compound like a storm and casually demanded payment from Hijikata with Kondou splayed at her feet. Shimura Tae, one of the new Four Devas of Kabuki-chou and evidently a fearsome figure who required at least two emergency codes in her name.
Kondou groaned and pushed himself off the ground. Being the closest, Tetsunosuke rushed to help him to his feet and guide him over to the veranda to sit and gather his bearings.
"I already compensated you for your dojo last month," Hijikata retorted, "and it took a huge chunk out of our maintenance budget! I know for a fact you bought that new television with the money from then—"
"Oh, who told you it was new and that I had one?"
Hijikata grit his teeth. "Kondou-san did…"
"Benefiting from his stalking with insider information on my dojo, I see. I figured that might be the case because you don't visit nearly as often as your chief—or maybe you've taken up his stalking habits and know how to hide yourself well." Tae sighed, shaking her head and lifting her gaze to the sky. "I have only the genes of my ancestors to blame for making me as beautiful as I am to invite such vigorous courtship from the leaders of the Shinsengumi."
"What, Toushi, you've been visiting the Shimuras?" Kondou piped up, eyes wide as he turned to Hijikata. "Without me?"
Hijikata scowled. "As if I have time to visit people, much less a vain—" A flying sandal smacked his mouth, knocking him to the ground on his back, dust puffing up around him.
"Vice-Chief!"
"Toushiiiii!"
"Confidence isn't vanity, Hijikata-san," Tae remarked, calmly walking over to him, offering a brief smile to Tetsunosuke, and then bending down to retrieve and place her sandal back on her foot. "Nor is speaking a simple truth."
Until now, Tetsunosuke had held his tongue, afraid to speak and catch the attention of Tae. With her turning that deceptively sweet smile on him, freezing his blood into place, Tetsunosuke understood the meaning of true fear.
"Besides, you could use a little vanity yourself, knowing you and your disgusting mayonnaise habits. For all your preaching about strict regulations, you certainly don't extend them toward your uniform. I've seen you with mayonnaise stains more than once, sometimes on your face." Tae shook her head with an expression of mock pity. "But I guess it is not so surprising that the famous demon vice-chief has fallen this low, what with the Shinsengumi's careless use of our tax dollars."
Hijikata scrambled to his feet, furiously rubbing around his mouth and chin with a reddish tinge on his cheeks and then checking the back of his hand for, presumably, residual mayonnaise. "You say we're wasting money? My initial point was that you're wasting our compensation money on unnecessary extravagances instead of fixing your dojo! And leave mayonnaise out of this!"
Tetsunosuke couldn't help himself. "Vice-Chief, you missed a spot!" He pulled out a handkerchief from his back pocket and trotted over to where Hijikata and Tae were almost standing toe to toe.
"Shut up! I don't need—"
"Oh, my, who is this observant and polite man?"
Blushing, for he now saw how pretty Tae was from this close up and understood Kondou's infatuation, Tetsunosuke first offered a bow and then a salute. "Sasaki Tetsunosuke, assistant to Vice-Chief and at your service, ma'am!"
"Why are you saluting her?"
Tae giggled and bowed a greeting in return. "It's nice to meet you, Sasaki-san. I am Shimura Tae of the Koudoukan Dojo and the Queen of Kabukichou."
His face was on fire now, he was sure of it. "N-N-Nice to meet you, too, Your Highness!"
"That has a lovely ring to it. 'Your Highness.'" She paused with a thoughtful expression. "Yes, I do quite like the sound of that. Perhaps I should tell people address me in that way from now on."
Hijikata sneered at her. "Forget that!"
"I completely agree, Your Beautiful Highness!" Kondou burst in, but whimpered when Tae shot him a dark look.
"Don't give into her demands, Kondou-san!"
"Shimura-san!" A soldier burst around the corner, running toward them with a convenience store bag in his hand. "I brought your Chocolate Chunk Bargain Dash as you requested!"
Tae took the bag from him with a smile. "Thank you so much."
"It's supposed to rain later!" called another soldier, who approached from the opposite end, bearing an umbrella. "Take one of our special Shinsengumi edition umbrellas! It won't leak under the hardest rain!"
"My, my, how very thoughtful of you."
"What the hell are you doing?" Hijikata snapped, "Who told you to get her ice cream?"
"S-Sorry, Vice-Chief!" the first soldier answered, "She mentioned she was in the mood for something cool and sweet! And we don't want her catching a cold from the rain!"
"And Chief told us to treat her respectfully, as if she were our own mother and sister, whenever she comes here!" the second soldier added.
"Respect doesn't mean groveling to her! All of you, commit seppuku right now for your lack of self-respect!"
Kondou returned, holding out his uniform jacket. "Otae-san! You can have my jacket for the walk back home! The wind is starting to pick up!"
"Oh, thank you, Kondou-san," Tae said, taking the jacket with a smile, "This will make a good fire for the bath tonight."
"Yeah, hahaha! Eh? Wait a minute…?"
Before Tetsunosuke could comprehend his actions, he reached inside his pocket and produced the apple he'd been saving for later. "Shimura-san! Please have this apple as a token of my good will!"
Tae's smiled deepened. "You're much too kind."
Hijikata stood there, seething.
"Really, everyone has been so kind, I almost forgot my purpose in being here," Tae continued, holding her newfound possessions in her arms. She arched a thin eyebrow, glancing at each soldier in turn. "So kind that it almost seems as if it's an attempt to have me forget…"
"You came to settle the issue of compensation for Chief's stalking?" Tetsunosuke offered and wilted under Hijikata's withering glare.
"Tetsu, you idiot! She was on the verge of leaving!"
"M-M-My apologies, Vice-Chief! I was trying to be helpful!"
"Ah, now I remember what I came here for," Tae said, turning her gaze to Hijikata instead. "We were discussing compensation, yes? I would prefer it if you wrote me a cheque of 650,000 yen right now, so I can go buy groceries for tonight's dinner instead of waiting until this afternoon. "
"You said 450,000 earlier! Why did it go up?"
"The cost of living went up, but I guess you wouldn't know since you have a stable income and don't need to worry about living expenses like the rest of us hardworking civilians."
"How can the cost of living go up in a minute?" Clearly exasperated, Hijikata took a few deep breaths before continuing, "Look, can we settle this another time? We're extremely busy today and I have no patience right now to deal with your complaints. I'll give him another lecture and—"
"When has that ever worked?" she remarked, "And it's not a simple complaint. I'm asking the police to do something about a stalker. You don't want the Shinsengumi to become known as the stalker police force, do you? That stalkers can come here and learn the best techniques? Tell me you don't want that, Hijikata-han."
Hijikata exhaled and spoke through his teeth, "Yes, I realize that, and, no, I don't, but until we find a solution that doesn't result in the draining of our budget—"
"Not to mention mine," Tae cut in, "I do need all the money I can to rebuild my family dojo."
The two stood there in tense silence for a moment, holding each other's stubborn gaze. Tae was about a head shorter than Hijikata, but she didn't appear the least bit intimidated by his height or title or reputation.
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" Kondou burst out, teary-eyed, scrambling over to bow at her feet. "Otae-san, please forgive me! I just love you so much! I promise to be on my best behaviour from now on! We can continue dating like it never happened!"
Tae looked down at him, blinked twice. "Oh, my, Gori-san! Were you under the impression that we were dating all this time? That all our dates took place in the attic or underneath my bedroom floor?"
Kondou grinned nervously, slowly standing to his feet. "T-Think about them as blind dates! Getting to know each other before we go on real dates!"
"That's not how blind dates work," Tae replied, dulcet tones and pleasant smile returning, as she raised a fist. "This is how they work—"
Before Kondou could yell and Tetsunosuke could blink, Hijikata intervened, catching her fist with one hand—which soon became two, as he grunted and pushed back against her fist, his heels digging into the ground and eyes wild with disbelief.
Tae relented and dropped her arm, annoyance flickering across her features but still maintaining her smile.
Caught momentarily off balance when the force of her near-punch left him, Hijikata straightened up, a little breathless. "What are you, a gorilla? A bear? Where the hell is your strength coming from?"
Tetsunosuke could see one of Tae's veins throbbing in her temple despite her attempt to remain calm.
She spoke in a tight voice, "Hijikata-san, I am losing my patience here. If you don't pay me right now—"
Hijikata jumped in, saying, "If you don't reschedule our meeting to settle all this for another day, then I'll tell you what happens to Maeda and Sano at the end of the episode when they confront the murderer!"
Smile vanishing in an instant, Tae narrowed her eyes and the sun passed behind clouds, as though obeying a command and darkening the earth to match her mood.
"You wouldn't."
Hijikata wore an uncharacteristically smug expression, one of the first Tetsunosuke had ever witnessed. "I would and it would be a shame to have the episode spoiled becauseit ended with a twist I think not even you would have seen coming. Choose wisely…Your Highness."
"May Toushi's soul rest in peace," Kondou murmured, closing his eyes and clenching a fist to his chest, "He was the greatest friend and assistant I ever had. And the bravest."
The other two soldiers, who had lingered in case Tae needed anything else, ran away screaming.
Meanwhile, Tetsunosuke was mulling over the fact that Hijikata had just admitted he watched a drama series on Wednesday mornings instead of working. No wonder Hijikata had given orders that he was not to be interrupted for an hour – and it explained the muffled gunshots and explosions. But that was the least of their concerns now, for even Tetsunosuke couldn't escape the sense of impending doom crawling up his spine like a spider.
Hijikata stood his ground, very stiffly, waiting for an answer. Tetsunosuke could see beads of perspiration gathering on the side of his face. So even Hijikata held some measure of fear in the presence of this woman.
Her eyes as shadowed as their surroundings, Tae spoke slowly, "Hijikata-san…"
Tetsunosuke gulped, and he was certain Kondou and Hijikata did, too.
The clouds unveiled the sun and her smile was equally radiant. "This is too lovely a day to waste on discussion about stalkers and money! Besides that, my Bargain Dash is starting to melt. Perhaps we should schedule our meeting for another time – tonight, perhaps? At Snack Smile? You and Kondou-san can stop by and I'll order twenty bottles of Dom Perignon in advance for you!"
"So, in other words, you're still trying to get the money from us one way or another, aren't you?" Hijikata responded.
Tae turned her smile to Tetsunosuke. "You are welcome to join us, too, Sasaki-san. I'll have them prepare extra Dom Perignon for you!"
Tetsunosuke suddenly wished he and his wallet had run away, too. "Uh, well—"
"We'll be there!" Kondou cut in, throwing both his arms around Hijikata and Tetsunosuke's shoulders, wearing a happy grin. "I'm so glad you're giving me another chance, Otae-san! This will be like a group date!"
Hijikata slapped a hand to his forehead, squeezing his eyes shut and hissing a curse.
"Before I go, I have to say – I didn't know you watched Kendo Cop, too, Hijikata-san," Tae remarked, "Then you must know that they are moving it to a Thursday night slot instead of Wednesday morning next month?"
Hijikata stared at her, though he seemed calmer than before. "I'm aware, yes."
"I see. Perhaps we can discuss the plot development sometime? I would also be most interested in what a real police officer thinks of the realism they strive for in the series overall."
Kondou whispered to Tetsunosuke, "Find out where I can marathon all episodes of Kendo Cop by tonight."
"Y-Yes, Chief!"
"The crime scenes are fairly well-researched when it comes to the methods of investigation and the process of collecting evidence," Hijikata replied in a gruff voice, "but the death scenes can use some work. They're dull and unimaginative."
"Oh, I agree. I also think there are more effective ways to torture information out of the criminal."
"As do I."
Tetsunosuke marveled at how they could go from bickering to discussing television drama serials in over a minute. This woman had a baffling effect on the entire Shinsengumi.
"As expected of the famous demon vice-chief," Tae said with a chuckle, turning to leave, but she paused to add, "And just so that you're aware – I never miss an episode unless Shin-chan is bleeding to death or Gori-san is hiding behind the TV." Her voice dipped low. "Next time you won't be able to use spoilers against me."
Hijikata crossed his arms and jutted his chin out. "Humph. We'll see about that."
Tae's smile remained, but Tetsunosuke could see a twitching vein in her temple. She bid them farewell and left the complex with her new umbrella, ice cream, and apple.
"I'll be sure to watch Kendo Cop before tonight's date!" Kondou called out after her, waving.
"It's not a date and we're not going," Hijikata said, frowning at Kondou. "I'll arrange the meeting some other time – or maybe I won't have to if you quit stalking her and then she'll quit beating on you and hounding us for money. If you want to pursue her, then do it normally."
Kondou clapped his hands together, as if to pray, and bowed his head before them. "Forgive me! I promise I'll try really hard, Toushi! And you should come along with me tonight! A couple of drinks will help you relax! You even managed to have a civil conversation with her! Granted, an agreement of needing harsher interrogation and torture methods isn't what I had in mind, but if it helps you two to get along, then I'm okay with it!" Without waiting for answer, Kondou dashed away, talking excitedly to himself about his evening plans and Kendo Cop.
Hijikata sighed heavily and turned to scowl at the two soldiers hiding behind a tree. "What the hell are you doing, hiding away like cowards?" He pointed to the hole in the wall. "Commit seppuku and then clean up that mess!"
"Right away, Vice-Chief!" The two rushed to work along with at least ten more from various hiding places in the vicinity.
Hijikata took out a cigarette and his mayonnaise lighter. "Tetsu, forget the archives for today. Instead I am going to have you retrieve budget reports from Treasury and prepare a summary."
"Yes, Vice-Chief!"
Not long after, the rain began. The men covered the gap in the wall with canvas and assigned two guards until repairs could continue. Listening to the steady downfall on the roof from inside Hijikata's quarters, Tetsunosuke counted his blessings – analyzing graphs and numbers was preferable to standing guard in the rain, especially when the two guards happened to be the ones who brought the ice cream and umbrella to Tae.
Again, his mind returned to his encounter with her less than twenty minutes ago. He was in awe of her physical strength and powerful presence, and barely noticed when he asked aloud, "Who is she?"
"Who?"
"Shimura-san."
"Didn't you already make her acquaintance?" Hijikata replied stonily.
"Yes, but I'm wondering just who she is exactly to cause the whole force to mobilize like that…and to buy her things…even though they're afraid of her." Even he could not explain to himself why he had wanted to give her his apple only that she should be gifted with it. "Chief really likes her, doesn't he?"
"Unfortunately."
"You don't approve?"
"Not when she causes him to act irrationally or when she undermines my authority and disrupts the routine around here." Hijikata rest his cigarette on his knee, exhaling smoke. "She's violent, vain, can't cook, and hangs around the Yorozuya. Anyway, why the hell are you asking me this? It has nothing to do with you."
"Sorry, sir. I just thought there must be something more to her if the Chief likes her so much and the Shinsengumi respect her."
Hijikata brought his cigarette to his lips and inhaled. Then, with wisps of smoke exiting his mouth, he muttered, "Kondou-san isn't a fool."
Tetsunosuke waited for him to elaborate, but Hijikata crumpled his cigarette in the ashtray and resumed his reading, instead muttering under his breath, "She's even stronger than I thought she was. She could threaten the entire city to do her bidding…damn gorilla woman… At least I finally know a weakness..."
Unsure of whether Hijikata was talking to himself or not, Tetsunosuke ventured a potentially dangerous question: "Vice-Chief, would you like me to purchase for you one of those titillating magazines with warrior women?"
The next thing Tetsunosuke knew, he was on his back in the courtyard, staring at the grey skies with the rain soothing his bleeding and possibly broken nose. Such a powerful punch it was that he saw both stars and sweet smiles from a woman in a pink kimono.
Day by day, Tetsunosuke grew to know more members of the Shinsengumi and developed friendships. Most of his spare time went to self-improvement, which included learning from his new friends and those of senior ranks with valuable knowledge to impart.
"So what you want to do here is apply a little baking soda – not too much, just dab a bit of the paste – and with a toothbrush or sponge, scrub firmly between the tiles and gradually the mildew will come off." Kumanaku demonstrated with a toothbrush, using one hand to clean at a mildew-heavy spot with steady strokes. "Notice how the paste eats away at the grime. Get those bristles in deep. It will take some time, perhaps a few hours or days, but when you look upon a sparkling clean wall, you will feel it worthwhile to invest as much effort and sweat in tile-cleaning as you do in sword-training."
Tetsunosuke scribbled it all down in his notepad. "Thank you, senpai! I will do this the next time I'm on washroom duty!"
Kumanaku gave a curt nod and stood up. "I am most delighted to pass down my knowledge to a willing ear. Most of the men here don't have the same passion for cleanliness as I do."
"Are you two done in there? Come on, I gotta take a piss!" Goda wailed from outside the washrooms. "You don't have to close off the entire bathroom just for a cleaning lesson!"
"Pay him no mind," Kumanaku said, taking a small bowl of baking soda paste and remixing it with a spoon, beating it around like an egg. "People like him have no appreciation for the art of sanitation. I suspect he's one of those miscreants who don't aim properly, thus creating an additional mess to clean up."
"I do so aim properly! It's Eguchi who doesn't! Don't lump me in with a guy who can't aim unless there's a target in the urinal! Taking a piss isn't like playing video games!"
"Speaking of targets…" Kumanaku went over to the next urinal where there was a taped photo of Hijikata obviously not aware of being photographed, a spoonful of mayonnaise-topped curry poised to enter his mouth. "I see Captain Okita has been here recently. That's the fourth photo I've found this month." He slapped on a rubber glove and proceeded to scratch at the edges, tearing it off. "Be sure to protect your hands from germs when you remove them."
There was a sudden flush in the farthest stall, causing both men to glance at each other in surprise. The door opened and Kondou walked out and they immediately stood at attention. "Chief!"
"Carry on with your lesson, men, no need to stop on my account," Kondou said cheerfully, walking over to the bathroom sink with a slight limp.
"I had no idea you were here, Chief," Kumanaku said, still saluting.
"Oh, I've been here for about half an hour," Kondou answered, scrubbing his hands with soap. "Constipation will do that to you. But I was also fascinated by your lecture on cleanliness that I stayed in there longer just to hear. I think I thoroughly cleaned out my system as a result!"
Outside, Goda's footsteps trailing away could be heard along with a muffled remark, "Never mind, I can hold it."
Kondou switched off the water and held up a finger. "That, I do not recommend."
Besides learning about useful cleaning tips, Tetsunosuke soaked up every little piece of information on Hijikata that he could get.
"This will move your soul in ways you never thought it could be moved," Harada said one evening, voice thick with conviction. Harada was a frequent patrol and smoking partner of Hijikata's and one of the oldest members in age and membership. Tonight he had invited Tetsunosuke to the common room for the weekly Shinsengumi movie night that Hijikata did nothing about because Kondou allowed it.
"What movie is it?"
"Alien vs Yakuza. It's a classic."
From the title alone, it didn't sound like the kind of movie a group of law-adhering samurai would indulge in. "Oh, I haven't seen that…"
"I'm telling you, Vice-Chief cried his eyes out over this…"
Tetsunosuke could hardly believe that the Shinsengumi's second-in-command had once shed tears over a yakuza movie when yakuza were often arrested every month or so. But then, nearly everything Tetsunosuke had ever learned or heard of about Hijikata prior to joining the Shinsengumi was that the man simultaneously lived up to and defied his terrifying reputation.
"…so you know you'll be crying by the end of it, too."
"Really? Then I'm looking forward to it!"
"Great. Oh—" Harada paused before the door of the common room. "Just one thing – if you see Vice-Chief crying, don't say anything unless you want your ass kicked. It's best if you pretend you didn't notice."
"O-Okay!"
Sure enough, halfway through the film, Tetsunosuke could feel the beginnings of a lump in his throat over the bonds of unbreakable loyalty between the main character and his subordinate, prepared to fight and die together before a hideous alien foe. No wonder Hijikata had taken to this movie.
The entire common room was packed full of off-duty officers, all quiet save for the occasional sniffle, one of which was close at hand along with a familiar cigarette scent. Remembering Harada's advice, Tetsunosuke forced himself to watch the movie and not think about how Hijikata had apparently joined them with masterful stealth and was already weeping over the film.
Don't look, don't comment, don't invoke wrath. Three simple rules, like avoiding a vengeful ghost.
"Jou-san!" Hijikata suddenly called out in the middle of a death scene, voice sounding as devastated as the characters on-screen looked.
No one said a word, but some sobbed harder.
Tetsunosuke took out his handkerchief and wiped away a few tears of his own.
With the Sixth and Seventh Units out patrolling, the Fourth and Ninth Units carrying out their own assigned duties, and the Second Unit training new recruits, the rest of the Shinsengumi were free to spend their Friday evening spare time however they wanted to, so long as no one broke the law or caused any deaths. Or rather, that's how many of them interpreted Kondou's command to "take it easy" after a long hard week in dealing with recent Joui faction uprisings. Quite a number of men had gathered in the common room for a night of social drinking and conversation.
"So I say to him – 'Hey, where do you get off trying to tell me SD Gundam isn't a serious Gundam show?'" Nakashima shook his head, gesturing animatedly with his hands as he relayed an experience to a couple of other soldiers. "That's like saying Kira is a better pilot than Amuro. Nobody in their right mind would say that."
One of the soldiers whose name Tetsunosuke struggled to recall frowned. "But have you seen Kira in action? He's damn good, I wouldn't sell him short."
"Kira is just an overpowered copy of Amuro! The whole series is a watered down copy of the original!"
"Are you saying you weren't moved by Lacus' songs? What kind of heartless robot are you? No wonder you can't get a date!"
"What did you say?" Nakashima rose unsteadily to his feet, buzzed by a few drinks. "I have a better chance of getting a date in the real world than somebody who can't look past his two-dimensional idols!"
"Shut up, you single Gundam otaku loser who actually owns a Char mask! That's a real date charmer, isn't it?"
Nakashima lunged for him, sending both crashing down on the floor.
"Settle down, settle down!" said the third solider, as the other two began to brawl. "Chief and Vice-Chief might come back early and then you'll really get it!"
Tetsunosuke stared worriedly at the flurry of fists in the corner of the common room. "Should we stop them?"
Harada clapped a hand against his back, chuckling. "They get into the same argument every week. Let them duke it out and they'll be buddies again in an hour."
Surrounded by a myriad of conversations and drunken scuffles and jovial laughter, Tetsunosuke reveled in the camaraderie of a common room full of comrades he now called friends. Tonight, jokes were freely passed around with the alcohol, and Tetsunosuke was privileged to be pouring a drink for two captains, Harada and Todo. Tetsunosuke had been hoping to do the same for their esteemed leaders, but Kondou had gone to Snack Smile and Hijikata had accompanied him to ensure he didn't get into big trouble before tomorrow's meeting with politicians.
Another time, Tetsunosuke thought, as he smiled at two men singing an off-key duet from a borrowed karaoke machine.
"Oi, Tetsu-kun!" called Eguchi from across the room, "Remember when you passed out from eating Vice-Chief's mayonnaise curry rice special for the first time?"
Tetsunosuke recalled the incident with some faint nausea and nodded, grinning sheepishly. "Yes, I do!"
"Takes real guts to do that!"
"Or a death wish!" another chimed in, inspiring more laughter.
"I don't think he turned down any mayonnaise Vice-Chief gave him, either!"
That was partly true. During a training excursion, Tetsunosuke had completed an obstacle course and Hijikata had handed him a bottle of mayonnaise for "sustenance." Not wanting to offend his most revered teacher, Tetsunosuke had accepted it. But Hijikata had stayed there, waiting, and so Tetsunosuke had no choice but to take the cap off and pour some in his mouth. It wasn't the most appetizing, but he would endure it for Hijikata's sake.
Yamazaki, who was not drinking as much, stood to his feet and wrung his hands nervously. "Everyone, it's getting late…Chief and Vice-Chief will be back soon. Maybe we should call it a night?"
"The night's still young!" Todo called out, lifting his cup and grinning with a lopsided bandana that covered one of his eyes, "Have another drink, Zaki!"
"Or maybe he'd rather go to that bar with the robot woman," Harada added, smirking.
Yamazaki flushed red with embarrassment. "How does everyone know about that?"
"Oh, sorry, I thought it was an open secret," said a different voice with a familiar drawl to it.
Tetsunosuke was sure everyone's heart had leaped into their throats at about the same time as his did when Okita Sougo spoke. He stood in the doorway, dressed in casual wear like the rest. He also held a bazooka.
"Captain Okita! You mean you told everybody about my—wait, there's nothing to tell!"
"Okay, I won't tell anyone about how I saw you reading a cyborg romance manga in the bookstore yesterday," Okita replied, as he stepped into the common room.
"You just did!"
"Oh. My bad." Okita hefted the bazooka onto his right shoulder, took aim, and fired into the corner where Nakashima and the other soldier were still brawling.
Everyone yelled and scrambled for cover, as debris rained down on them. Tetsunosuke jumped to his feet and stood at attention, not wanting to appear idle.
"Since Kondou-san and Hijikata-san aren't here right now, it's up to me to lay down the law as Captain of the First Unit," Okita said before the dust cleared, "Infighting is against regulation. Besides, Tetsujin 28-go tramples on both."
"Captain!" Kamiyama burst out, running over to Okita's side, "I thought you were watching rakugo in your room! Or at least you were when I peeked in on you for five minutes!"
Okita looked at him with mild annoyance, dropping the bazooka to the floor. "I was, but I finished that early, so I decided to pour superglue in Hijikata's boots and I finished that quickly, too. I followed the noise to here and now I'm faced with the decision of how to inflict maximum pain on you with minimal effort for invading my privacy."
Instead of cowering in fear, Kamiyama adjusted his glasses and cried, "I'm ready for anything! I'm a glutton for punishment, Captain Okita!"
Ignoring his subordinate, Okita yawned and walked to the center of the room, surveying broken cups and flasks and shards of the walls and floors littering the area. "Good grief, what a mess you guys made."
"Uh, you're the one who made an even bigger mess!" the men yelled together.
"This will take hours to clean and by the time you finish, it'll probably be after midnight and then you'll be tired in the morning for your official duties and then Hijikata will blame me letting the situation get out of hand. He's always blaming me for things that aren't my fault."
"No matter how you look at it, this really is all your fault!"
"Trying to make me look bad in front of Kondou-san, no doubt." Okita crossed his arms and stayed quiet for several seconds before sighing. "Well, I have no choice, then. I'll do a nostalgic throwback scene and offer you a piece of advice altered enough to avoid copyright infringement. When facing an overwhelming mess, breathe as one. Link your breathing with your body and heart."
Tetsunosuke synchronized his breathing with everyone else, eyes watering over the stench of alcohol.
"And at the precise moment, approach the mess and clean it up as one before I blow this entire place to pieces. You have five minutes—ah, sorry, that's four minutes and fifty-seven seconds now."
Tetsunosuke's heart raced, as everyone immediately – and drunkenly – grabbed all the alcohol and whipped out hammers and brooms out of nowhere to begin repairs on the common room. Meanwhile Okita plopped down in front of the television and switched the channel from Terakado Tsuu's concert to a comedy talk show.
In spite of his trepidation toward being in Okita's presence and the threat hanging over them if they didn't finish cleaning up in time, Tetsunosuke had to admit that there was no one better suited to leading the Shinsengumi in Kondou and Hijikata's stead than Okita. Hijikata had always warned not to trust Okita, but in critical situations, Tetsunosuke thought they could do worse than Okita, who was actually showing a rare act of charity in allowing them time to clean up before Hijikata returned. Not nearly enough time with a mess made bigger by Okita, admittedly, but the captain's small acts of charity and subtle kindnesses were valued treasures all the same.
One of Tetsunosuke's favourite times of the day and the week was morning patrol. He rose before dawn, careful not to wake the rest of the men in the barracks, especially those who had returned from the graveyard shift. He took up preparing breakfast in the mess hall for those beginning their day early, and took pride in serving Hijikata, who was typically the first person there, choosing to dine with the members on days where he led the morning patrol.
The best part was getting to go with Hijikata on these morning patrols. Usually Tetsunosuke spent most of his time working at headquarters, holding the fort down with administrative work and keeping up to date on current events while Hijikata conducted fieldwork in addition to his many other responsibilities. These times when Tetsunosuke was tasked with field duties filled him with honour and excitement. It was a time for growth and new experiences. It was a time to display the strengths of his body and mind. It was a time to learn firsthand from Hijikata on what it meant to be a samurai in this day and age.
"What do you mean there's no Magazine today?"
"My apologies, sir. There's a late shipment and—"
"There was a late shipment last week, too. Is this going to be regular occurrence? Should I take my business elsewhere?"
The small corner convenience store employee – a meek young man with fidgeting hands and eyes flitting from Hijikata's face to the sword at his waist – answered in a croaking voice, "Please don't do that, sir! I'll give you your regular brand of cigarettes at half off today to make up for it!"
Hijikata narrowed his eyes. "You didn't give me half off last week. It should be double half off now."
"But that would mean giving them away for free!"
"That's the way equivalent exchange works."
"Equivalent exchange? What exactly are we exchanging in order to make this fair for both of us? And isn't that a Jump story?"
"Are you arguing with a police officer? I can arrest you for that."
"No, no, no! By all means, take them!" The employee thrust two packs into Hijikata's waiting hand. "Take two! They're on the house! Just don't arrest me!"
Ignoring the fact that Hijikata had obtained cigarettes for cheap through means of what could be considered a type of extortion, Tetsunosuke still looked forward to upholding justice with the demon vice-chief of the Shinsengumi.
Today they were on foot, starting from their area of residence and leading into the neighbouring districts. They cut through an alleyway and entered a business street where shops were opening up, vendors setting up their wares and stands, and people shopping and eating and enjoying the start of a fresh new day.
Hijikata led the way, lit cigarette hanging out of his mouth, hands in his pockets. Even though he appeared relatively relaxed, he was always on his guard, his gaze cutting into the people like steel, searching for any sign of trouble or law-breaking.
Tetsunosuke followed close behind, partially to observe Hijikata and also because he didn't feel like he deserved to stand side by side with such a renowned man. That was a dream yet to be realized. Hijikata would call it a ridiculous notion, but Tetsunosuke wanted to earn his place at Hijikata's side instead of simply claiming it as one assigned to assist him.
Hijikata stopped in the middle of the street.
"What is it, Vice-Chief—" Tetsunosuke froze, unable to finish.
Strolling toward them was Isaburou, in casual wear, closing the distance by the second.
There was no place to duck into without being noticed. That was what Tetsunosuke wanted to do, but such a cowardly act would irritate Hijikata and fuel Isaburou's contempt. There was no choice but to face his brother. Sooner or later, they would have met again.
Besides, Isaburou had noticed them long before he reached them, and he stopped five feet short of Hijikata, hands clasped behind his back. "Well, what an unexpected coincidence – to meet the Shinsengumi here on my first day off in Edo. It has been a long time since we last spoke." The sun glinted off his monocle, and even though the white Mimawarigumi uniform was absent, Isaburou was as intimidating as only he could be. He reached into his kimono and pulled out his cell phone, flipping the top open. "You must let me add you back into my contacts now that the Mimawarigumi will be in Edo for a time."
Hijikata puffed on his cigarette. "Oi, didn't anyone tell you not to e-mail and walk? Somebody could get hurt."
"Indeed, but I am sure the Vice-Chief of the Shinsengumi will be able to act in time to prevent any accidents or unnecessary injuries." His eyes passed over Tetsunosuke briefly, showing disinterest. "I see you still do not heed my advice about preventing decay from settling into your ranks."
Tetsunosuke swallowed hard and stared at Isaburou's sandaled feet.
"The only decay here that ranks is standing in front of me."
"Now, now, Hijikata-san, there is no need to be rude. Everyone knows that if you do not brush your teeth daily, your teeth will rot and fall out or perhaps spread incurable disease. I would hate to see the illustrious Shinsengumi succumb to their own bad habits."
"None of your damn business whether we brush our teeth or not."
Isaburou gave a short sigh. "This is precisely what I warned Matsudaira-dono about. If you do not consider your long-term health, you will eventually suffer the consequences of poor hygiene. But, then again, he is a man of rather deplorable habits himself, indulging too recklessly in alcohol at decadent establishments."
The thickening tension between the two men unnerved Tetsunosuke, who didn't want a battle to break out in the middle of throngs of market-goers, many of who filed around them, likely wary of interfering with the trio, even by accident.
Hijikata narrowed his eyes. "Whatever problem you've got with the old man doesn't compare to the problem I have with your stinking tongue. Maybe see the dentist about that before you look at other people's hygiene."
Unfazed, Isaburou nodded. "Indeed. But before I do that, perhaps I should seek counsel from Kondou-san first. He is a more sensible man than yourself and Matsudaira-dono, and I can count on his wise opinions about the nature of a samurai. Ah, but then, I find myself in error again, because I believe Kondou-san is known for the scandalous behaviour of stalking a lady. News of samurai acting inappropriately does reach the ears of those far and wide."
Hijikata's hand settled on the hilt of his sword.
"It is quite shameful to see Edo's famed police force fall to such depths—"
Before Tetsunosuke's mind realized it, his mouth spoke without regard for fear of Isaburou's right-hand Imai Nobume materializing out of nowhere to point her sword at his neck. "Isaburou!"
In a split second, his brother's eyes leveled on him, brow crinkling ever so slightly.
Taking a few deep breaths to quell his anxieties over interrupting Isaburou for the first time in his life, Tetsunosuke squared his shoulders and set his jaw in defiance. "Pardon my intrusion, but I couldn't let your insulting my leaders pass without comment! The Shinsengumi may not be as perfect and elite as the Mimawarigumi, but under Kondou-san and Hijikata-san's leadership, we are strong and committed to protecting the people of Edo and the Shogun!"
Isaburou wasted no time with his monotone response, "'We?' So you now think of yourself as a legitimate member of the Shinsengumi? They are your leaders now? Not long ago, you were fraternizing with Joui patriots and now you are arresting them while escaping the consequences of your foolish decisions. How easily you switch sides when it is convenient for you."
"Switch sides? No! I—"
"In a way, it is no different from how you continue to use the name 'Sasaki' for your own benefit when you have long tried to distance yourself from the family despite our repeated attempts to reform you. Ingratitude is ill-fitting of a samurai – if you are calling yourself that, as well."
Tetsunosuke tried to stop memories of the past from weakening his resolve, tried not to remember the way their father looked at him for the first time since his mother died: aversion to claiming a half-blood child in order to squash gossip and save the Sasaki family from disgrace. It was the same look Isaburou had always carried in his eyes. "No, I… I…"
Relentless in his condemnation, Isaburou continued, "Kondou-san agreed to take you in because refusing a direct order from his superiors was not an option for the Shinsengumi already teetering on the edge of a sword for their unruly ways. Hijikata-san accepted you as his assistant, because, as I understand it, he never refuses an order from Kondou-san. I am very sorry to say, Tetsunosuke-kun, that you are simply an obligation and nothing more."
Tetsunosuke lowered his head, heart pounding in his ears. Just when he thought he had overcome some of his biggest obstacles yet, Isaburou reduced him to a humiliated state in a matter of seconds. Maybe Isaburou was right, maybe—
"Ten minutes."
Isaburou looked at Hijikata. "I beg your pardon?"
"In ten minutes my patrol will officially end and I will be off-duty," Hijikata answered coldly, "When that happens, I may feel obligated to run you through with my sword like I did back in the abandoned lot."
"You would strike a civilian in broad daylight and further sully the Shinsengumi's reputation?"
"If our reputation is already rotten trash as you say, then it won't make much of a difference if I add another rotting piece. I already know our image is going down the drain, but right now, I don't care because I'm not going to stand by and let you further insult my assistant, my men, and my general." The sound of steel sliding from his scabbard further emphasized his threat, pulling the sword out at a thumb's length. "Besides, I wouldn't call an instigator carrying a sword in broad daylight your ordinary civilian when I know he's well-versed in the law that bans swords."
Isaburou stared at him blankly. "In other words, your personal pride is more important than your group's stature."
Hijikata smirked. "Unfortunately for you, I don't have any personal pride left."
Tetsunosuke had to agree. Nobody in the Shinsengumi did. Not Kondou who walked around naked once in a while or Hijikata who consumed mayonnaise directly from the bottle in public; not Yamazaki who ate himself into an anpan coma or Saitou who fell asleep in the middle of a convenience store queue and disrupted business. Certainly not Okita, who daily committed some kind of atrocity that sent Kondou and Hijikata scrambling to save face before the higher-ups' inquiries over the competence of the Shinsengumi.
Yet, Tokugawa Shige Shige placed absolute faith in them for his protection, and the people of Edo followed suit, trusting that the Shinsengumi, despite their roughest edges, would defend the Shogun and the city to their deaths.
"The only pride I have is in being a good-for-nothing samurai like the rest," Hijikata continued, taking out his cigarette and heaving a sigh. "If the Mimawarigumi want to be play the part of the heroes, so be it. We're not interested in grandstanding. All we're going to do is follow the orders of our general."
Isaburou stood in silence for some moments, scrutinizing Hijikata carefully. Finally, he said, "It appears that we are at an impasse here. Even though we are supposed to be colleagues who assist one another in protecting the Shogun, it seems that the Shinsengumi refuse to see their own folly and are truly beyond my aid." Isaburou typed into his phone, right thumb moving at a rapid pace. "I will have Nobume-san cancel the pen pal e-mail exchange program I was planning to introduce in order to better the relations between our forces. I see now that it is no longer needed."
"That's too bad because I was planning to write a lengthy letter of recommendation to the Mimawarigumi Chief regarding the proficiency of my assistant here," Hijikata remarked, gesturing to a shocked Tetsunosuke with a nod. "He's turning out to be of finer quality than the rest of us and I thought you should know. But it might be too late for him – he may have lost his pride, too."
"Yes, I don't have any pride at all!"
"Oi, that only sounds okay when I say it."
"I'm a good-for-nothing, too!"
"Seriously, don't say it like that."
"It's true, sir! I would never want to leave the Shinsengumi!" Tetsunosuke insisted and then faced Isaburou again. "Isaburou…I know what you think of me, but I don't care anymore. I'm different than I used to be and it's all because of Hijikata-san and the Shinsengumi." He paused, holding Isaburou's gaze and trying not to collapse under it. "Someday, when you have the time and you're willing, I would like to talk with you and show you just how strong I've become. Maybe then, you will see the worth of adding me to your contacts."
The hum and murmur of the streets sounded far off and distant in the wake of his bold statement. As usual, Isaburou's eyes betrayed nothing, but Tetsunosuke took the lack of an instant snide reply as a good sign.
"Well, then, I believe I have tarried here long enough. Far be it from me to stand in the way of the Shinsengumi's patrol." Isaburou adjusted his monocle and then passed between them, adding, "Do give my regards to Kondou-san. One of these days, the two of us will have to have a heart-to-heart discussion about keeping our subordinates in line."
Hijikata glared at him. "Kondou-san has no time for pretentious bastards."
"Oh?" Isaburou stopped and turned slightly toward them, peering over the top of his monocle. "But I am certain that he will soon be able to find plenty of room in his schedule for a fan. Good day, Hijikata-san."
"Good riddance."
As though a spell had been broken, the life of the street filled Tetsunosuke's ears once more, as he watched Isaburou fade into the crowds.
Knees quivering, Tetsunosuke fought to keep his balance, the weight of the experience crushing down on him. He took slow, deep breaths.
Hijikata noticed and frowned. "Pull yourself together. When you face your opponents, be fearless and dignified."
"Yes, Vice-Chief!"
"Let's go."
Tetsunosuke straightened up, exhaled sharply, and hurried to keep in step with Hijikata down the street, eager to end morning patrol on a positive note with the man who acted more like a brother than his blood one.
"So, Tetsu, how are you these days? Fitting in well?"
Sitting next to the Chief of the Shinsengumi, alone and in public at a ramen stand for dinner instead of at the mess hall, was the last thing Tetsunosuke expected. Kondou usually shared in the meals and practices and celebrations with the Shinsengumi, but to seek out time with a mere attendant and someone ranked the lowest in skill was a concept unfamiliar to Tetsunosuke. Isaburou certainly wouldn't have indulged in somebody beneath his ranks like this, let alone the entire Mimawarigumi or even the Sasaki family. But Kondou did and had invited Tetsunosuke to dine out with him.
"I'm doing well, sir, thank you kindly for asking!"
Steaming bowls of ramen were placed in front of them, and the smell alone was mouth-watering. They spent a few moments in silence, enjoying their meal and the company.
"Absolutely delicious, as always!" Kondou called to the owner, who nodded in acknowledgment. Turning to Tetsunosuke, Kondou added, "I always make sure to come here a few times a week. The food at the cafeteria can be a little, eh…unappetizing, let's just say. But don't tell the cooks I said that! They're doing their best!"
"I won't tell a soul, sir!"
Kondou laughed. "Thank you!" He took another bite and asked, "Is Toushi still giving you a rough time?"
Tetsunosuke hesitated, unwilling to provide a thoughtless answer that might give a bad impression of his superior. Hijikata didn't torture him into doing his duties, and while deep conversations between them were few and far between, it didn't mean Tetsunosuke was unhappy. He knew not to expect sunshine and roses working under a man like that. "He's not giving me a rough time, no."
"You can be honest with me, Tetsu. I know how he is." Kondou grinned. "Sometimes he's a little tough with me when needed, but he means well! Usually, anyway…he can be scary, too, haha!"
Scary was an understatement. More like downright terrifying with all hellish fury imaginable. "Yes, he's – he's a little intimidating! I'm afraid to make any sort of mistake, so I do my best to do everything right the first time."
Kondou slurped on his noodles and spoke between mouthfuls. "I wouldn't worry about it. I know Toushi values your hard work and he knows you try hard. Underneath that gruff exterior is a man with a heart bigger than he would admit."
Kondou would know Hijikata better than anyone else, had probably seen sides of the man no one else had ever seen, and was likely the only person Hijikata could let his guard down with.
Tetsunosuke was envious of their bond. "I believe that, sir! I just wish I knew what he's thinking sometimes. I want to get to know him better…but we don't talk much outside of work."
"He's like that with most people. Toushi's not much of a conversationalist," Kondou said, chewing with bits of food spraying out. "The key to knowing him is in understanding what he doesn't say."
"What do you mean, sir?"
"Enough with the 'sir' – we're off-duty and sharing a meal!" Kondou grinned at him. "Just Kondou will do right now."
A bit awestruck over bypassing a barrier of seniority, Tetsunosuke nodded. "Alright, Kondou-san, what do you mean?
"Toushi is never short on words when it comes to leading and disciplining the troops, as we both know! I mean more like when he chooses to or not to have heart-to-heart talks, much like we're doing now. He's careful about what he shares. He also doesn't praise or flatter people unnecessarily. You must've noticed that."
Tetsunosuke had. There was one case where he had painstakingly assembled a lengthy quarterly budget report that he had spent days working on and extra hours revising and ensuring no errors were present. Hijikata had taken it with little acknowledgment, mostly nodding and thanking him once for getting it done. Whether he had noticed anything else about it or how neatly the breakdown was arranged, he didn't say. Tetsunosuke didn't take it to mean that Hijikata was ungrateful, but he had hoped Hijikata might commend him for his work ethic and initiative.
Or maybe that was just the part of him that had wanted every kind of acknowledgment he could get from Isaburou and their father and all prominent family members and allies. Having to endure their criticism or silence had led Tetsunosuke to desire recognition each and every time he accomplished something.
But he also knew that such an attitude could be an obstacle under Shinsengumi jurisdiction. Individual accomplishments and goals did not take priority over group achievements. They worked not for themselves but for the people, and were expected to obey Kondou and Hijikata's orders regardless of personal feelings. Operating as a single-minded force was the best way for the Shinsengumi to discourage internal division and protect Edo. Despite the variety of personalities, they all knew when to be serious and work together, setting aside personal disputes.
Tetsunosuke knew it was petty to expect something like a pat on the head from Hijikata for every task accomplished, like an owner praising a good dog. But some encouragement wasn't bad, either. Not saying a word caused Tetsunosuke to wonder if he was still worth speaking to, especially with their lack of in-depth conversations. Did Hijikata want a robot for an assistant?
"Yet, when you least expect it, he'll also say exactly what you need to hear, whether you like it or not. He's good at reading people," Kondou continued, "Yeah, the thing about working with Toushi is that you eventually figure out what he expects and what he thinks without him saying anything. It's about knowing Toushi on a different level."
It was easy for Kondou to say that, because he already knew Hijikata on a different level. They were lifelong friends. Even Okita knew Hijikata better than most. But with Tetsunosuke, it was more of a master and retainer relationship. Was there a chance that someday Hijikata might see him as not just an assistant but also a friend, too?
"If you're not at that level, I wouldn't worry about it. He's a hard man to befriend. But, if you work hard and do a good job, Toushi won't forget it. Expecting him to praise you for every right thing you do…well, he's just not that kind of guy."
Tetsunosuke tried to cover up his burning face by lifting a hefty amount of simmering noodles. It was as if Kondou had read his mind, but it wasn't too surprising. Kondou knew more about his men and people in general than he let on, and Tetsunosuke was never more convinced of that then now.
"If he has to holler at you a lot, then you're probably not doing a good job – or you're doing something crazy. But if he doesn't, then it usually means he's satisfied with your performance. And I'd say by now you've earned his trust. That's a hard thing to earn, believe me!"
"You really think so?"
"Of course!" Soup finished, Kondou set down his chopsticks and leaned on the counter, folding his arms. "You may not realize it, but he trusts you a great deal. I've noticed he's let you sit in more on leadership meetings, even if you're only recording the minutes. And he's a little more relaxed now that he's not behind on his reports and filing because you're there to take care of the minor details. You two are turning out to be a great team. Actually it makes me a little jealous, ha, ha!"
"Jealous?" Tetsunosuke blinked in shock, trying to process Kondou's statement. Kondou and Hijikata were the ideal team and invincible when Okita was added to the mix. Everyone admired their synergy. How could Kondou be jealous of him?
"You've come a long way since you first joined us. Do you remember what you were like?" Kondou laughed again. "I think it's safe to say that Toushi wanted to kill you with your lack of manners and respect!"
Tetsunosuke forced a cheerless laugh, knowing full well it was true. "Yes, I am very ashamed of my behaviour back then and I've done my best to atone for it."
"And you have. I've been observing you for a long time, Tetsu, and you've grown a lot. Take pride in that."
Overwhelmed by Kondou's words, Tetsunosuke smiled, feeling tears prick at the corners of his eyes. "Thank you very much, Chief!"
"Oi, what did I say about titles tonight?"
"My apologies, Kondou-san!"
Kondou grinned.
Swallowing a mouthful of food, Tetsunosuke added, "I'm thankful I can assist to Vice-Chief. Whatever it takes to make his life easier, I'll do it, because I owe him my life." Every so often, he would remember Hijikata, battered and bleeding, standing between the Mimawarigumi and Tetsunosuke's former gang, determined to rescue him.
"Whoa now, don't get so heavy! But the sentiment is appreciated, Tetsu. Toushi can be under quite a bit of pressure, although he does his best not to let anyone see that," Kondou said, voice sobering up. "I can't help but feel it's partly my fault. I depend on him a great deal and I know he wants to do his best for me. Too often he has his hands full just trying to keep the Shinsengumi in order outside of the battlefield. I know I stress him out sometimes with things that I do, like the way I express my love for Otae-san and the trouble it gets me into.
"But, no matter what, Toushi is always there to bail me out. Always, and to the point where I worry for him and what would happen if…" Kondou paused, staring down at his meal for a few long moments, pondering an unspoken thought. Then, he sighed and smiled – a bit tiredly – at Tetsunosuke. "Ah, it's nothing. Who am I to bring down the mood?"
Uneasiness stirred in the pit of his stomach, but Tetsunosuke thanked Kondou for the hundredth time that evening.
"It's no problem! You can come ask me for advice anytime! That's why I invited you out tonight. I make a point of getting to know each new member, so that I can understand their strengths and weaknesses. If anyone is troubled, they should come and talk to me. I'll always do my best to help them! A general can't lead his troops if they're wallowing in doubt. General Revil would never do that!"
Tetsunosuke was overwhelmed by Kondou's generosity despite not knowing who General Revil was. There was no better leader in the entire country than Kondou Isao, who had dangerous swordsmen as his most loyal friends and ate casual meals with low-ranking members because Kondou saw no barriers when it came to his men. He was the brightest lantern in the darkness, and Tetsunosuke vowed to follow that light with the same staunch faith that Hijikata had in Kondou.
"Thank you, Chief! I realize that Hijikata has very high standards for all those who serve under him." Tetsunosuke clenched a fist. "But it only inspires me to work harder! I'll do my best to live up to Hijikata-san's expectations and exceed them!"
Kondou clasped his shoulder and gave him a hearty grin. "That's the spirit! Never give up, Tetsu. This world is unforgiving at times, there's no denying it. But when darkness closes in and things seem hopeless, you fight with all you have for even the smallest flicker of light. If you don't, then that's when you'll know that you've truly lost your way."
Days later, the unforgiving world snuffed out the light that was Kondou Isao and cast a once clear path into utter darkness.
Beneath an overcast sky heavy with the threat of rain, Tetsunosuke stood behind Hijikata, waiting for him to call for an end to the surrounding chaotic brawl between Shinsengumi and Mimawarigumi officers over the arrest of Kondou Isao, scheduled for execution in a few days. The shock of this news was equal to that of Tokugawa Shige Shige's death in spite of an elaborate ruse orchestrated by shinobi and samurai in order to protect him. Political factions moved as if on cue and Hitotsubashi Nobu Nobu was swiftly placed into power. News outlets spread the word and the people mourned.
The nationwide funeral had ended an hour ago.
Kondou had been arrested forty-five minutes ago.
The Shinsengumi had returned to an empty complex twenty minutes ago.
The Mimawarigumi had arrived eleven minutes ago.
The fight had begun three minutes ago.
Tetsunosuke counted the minutes, because he needed something to do and it was a task an assistant had to undertake, to keep track of current events. He wasn't going to join the scuffle, much as he wouldn't mind punching a few elite Mimawarigumi and destroying the smug glint in their eyes.
But he couldn't—wouldn't, because the Shinsengumi didn't involve themselves in personal quarrels and conducted themselves with discipline and dignity. With all their quirks and flaws, they still maintained the regulations as best as they could under Kondou and Hijikata's leadership. And as the assistant of Hijikata himself, Tetsunosuke endeavoured to exemplify the kind of behaviour Hijikata expected from him, expected as a samurai.
So, he counted and waited and watched.
Order was disordered. The men carried on, trading blow for blow, the black uniforms crying injustice and the white uniforms proclaiming justice. Someone had to pay for the sin of letting the Shogun die, after all.
But Hijikata said nothing, did nothing. Threats of seppuku never came and he seemed to observe the brawl with a detached air about him, as though letting them battle it out might somehow overturn the last hour's events and bring Kondou back to them.
Okita didn't do anything, either. He stood there in silence with an unreadable expression.
Saitou was nearby, standing farther behind, and when Tetsunosuke looked back at him, a plea in his eyes, Saitou simply closed his own.
Just when Tetsunosuke turned back and opened his mouth to protest, the words died on his tongue, as Sakata Gintoki hobbled down the pathway on a crutch, effectively halting the fight, passing through them like a bitterly cold wind chilling their bones. Frozen in mid-punch with wide eyes, no one moved a muscle, as Gintoki made his way to Hijikata and Okita, similarly dumbfounded.
Beaten and bandaged up with a hollow gaze, Gintoki offered an apology.
In seconds, reality set in and the Shinsengumi was disbanded on the same day they laid Tokugawa Shige Shige to rest.
The minutes ticked by faster than Tetsunosuke could keep up.