August 1864

"Is it really okay for us to take a boat?" Heisuke and Haruka were settling in their room on the boat they were taking back to Edo. It had recently sailed off from Osaka. She tilted her head at him. "They're paying for my travel anyway so it's fine."

"Ah. I guess they owe you for the sudden call back there." Heisuke sat down on the floor. "It does beat walking all the way there though!"

Haruka sat down across from him. "I'm not fond of boats much. I feel trapped."

"Cause you're on the water, right?"

"Yeah, but I have to take one anyway when I go home."

"Speaking of, Ka-san, can you tell me more about your brother?"

"About Minato?"

"Yeah! You said he's around my age, right? Is there anything he likes?"

Haruka thought for a moment. "Well, he really likes lanterns."

"Lanterns?"

She nodded her head. "Every chance he could, if there was a festival in a nearby village, he'd ask our father if we could go."

"He'd love the Gion festival then! You should totally bring him someday!"

Haruka smiled. "That would be nice. He also liked the ocean. He kept begging our mother to bring him to the beach so he could run around in the sand and water."

"Did you ever take him?"

"I took him a few times, after my mother had enough of his constant begging."

"And you'd take him, cause that's what an older sister does." Heisuke gave her a small smile. "That..Sounds like a family to me.."

Haruka raised an eyebrow. "Yeah..What else would a family be?"

Heisuke scratched his cheek. "I mean…I don't…I might..be a bit jealous.."

"What do you mean?"

"Well…I guess it's okay to tell you." Heisuke rested his hand on his knees. "You know the Daimyo in Tsu, right?"

"Tsu…" Haruka thought for a second. "Yes, I..."

"You connect the dots..?"

Haruka blinked at him a couple times. "Heisuke…How?"

He sheepishly grinned. "I'm just…his bastard, I guess." His eyes looked down at the floor in front of him. "I get paid every month to keep my mouth shut about it and to not go looking for him."

Her eyes widened. "...Why didn't I put it together earlier…"

He looked up at her. "Come on, Ka-san, you have a lot on your plate. My family name being the same probably was a coincidence to you."

"Still…" She tried to think of the right words. "Damn it. I want to yell at him the next time I see him…" Haruka then pointed at Heisuke. "And don't call yourself a bastard. That goes to Takayuki for just abandoning his son like that."

Heisuke looked surprised. "H-Hey! It's not like I was completely abandoned."

"Eh?"

"I lived with my mother." He sat back against the wall, looking a bit distant. "But I wasn't exactly the greatest kid to her. I kept asking and asking about my father. She would get frustrated, tell me he was a nobody, or sometimes just refused to tell me. I even ran away a couple of times too." He closed his eyes. "Back then, when you said I reminded you of your brother, I felt…happy. But I also felt jealous.."

"Jealous, huh.."

"I mean…He has a great sister like you. A mother who loves him. And a father who probably did too. That's what a family is. And..I never got any of that."

Heisuke opened his eyes when he felt arms around him. "Ka-san..?"

"…It's fine to be jealous. But you have to realize something. The Shinsengumi is your family."

"My family..?"

"Come on.." She pulled away to look at him. "You all are basically a bunch of brothers who get along and fight with each other. Especially those from Shiei."

Heisuke chuckled a little. "Yeah…we are. And you and Chizuru are our sisters that have to deal with us."

"Shota too."

"Heh. Yeah. Him too."

"..I don't mind if you want me to see you as a little brother."

"Really?"

"It…helps considering Minato is far away."

Heisuke's eyes widened. "Oh! I didn't think that you'd get home sick…Heisuke, why didn't you think about that!"

Haruka laughed. "Heisuke, it's alright. I'm not sad or anything, I feel a lot better actually."

Heisuke grinned. "Good! I'm still gonna call you Ka-san though!"

"That's fine. I'm used to you calling me that anyway."

"Then I'll be the best brother ever!" Heisuke grinned from ear to ear. "Oh yeah, so where are we gonna stay while we're there? Some expensive inn?"

Haruka shook her head. "It's easier to stay at my estate."

"Estate, huh?"

"Yeah. You and Kondou-san can stay there while you're recruiting too."

"That would make things easier, but do you just live there? I mean it has to be a huge estate right?"

"When I don't have orders, I stay there with Shota and another retainer of mine. You'll meet her soon."

"Then it's just the three of you? Why don't more people from your clan stay there?"

"Probably had more people stay there in the past, but most of those back home decided it wasn't worth the trip or didn't see the need for so many people in Edo. Over the years, it was decided the leader and a couple retainers were enough."

"Huh. I guess that makes sense. What about Miko? Can you tell me something about her?"

"Remember how I said my friend Otori was a bit obsessed with Western things? Well…Miko is a bit like that except with fashion. No doubt she kept giving him ideas about inviting me to western parties."

"Oh."

"But I'm sure you'll like her." Haruka sighed. "Well, we still have several days till we reach Edo, let's rest up."

Heisuke and Haruka got off the boat after a couple days of sailing. Edo seemed as busy as it always has, with maybe a few more new buildings accommodating foreigners' homes and shops. "Feel at home, Heisuke?"

"Hm..a little bit. Not like I consider Edo home." He started to walk ahead of her as she followed behind him. "That's true. Home for you is where everyone else is."

"You don't consider Edo home either, do you."

"Nope." She nodded in front of them. "We'll just follow the main street for a-"

"Haruka-san!"

They turned to the sound of the voice when Haruka was suddenly hugged. "Eh? Takeko?" The young girl pulled herself away and smiled at Haruka. "It's been so long!"

Heisuke crossed his arms. "You know her?"

"Ah..Yeah.." Haruka cleared her throat. "Takeko. You aren't alone are you?"

"Of course she's not." Said another voice, behind her, walking their way, were two men. A man with black hair, brown eyes, beard, and in a blue kimono stood tall next to the other with brown hair, green eyes, and a white kimono.

"Hitomi-san. Kotaro."

"Oh? I don't get addressed by my first name?" Hitomi asked.

"That's because Kotaro is my friend. You on the other hand are an annoyance."

Hitomi was taken aback."Ouch. I thought I was one by this point." Motoyama just let out a strained laugh. "I'm sorry, Hitomi-san. I'm sure you'll warm up to her." He turned back to Haruka. "Who's that with you, Haruka-san?"

Nakano stepped back from hugging Haruka as she spoke. "Right, this is Toudou Heisuke. He's a member of the Shinsengumi and came here to recruit more men for their group."

"Shinsengumi!" Both Motoyama and Nakano said, Motoyama seemed more frightened while Nakano was delighted at this fact. Everyone noticed the tension in Motoyama's body as Haruka sighed. "You know…there's way more dangerous people in there than Heisuke, right? Ah..No offense, Heisuke."

"It's fine, Ka-san."

Nakano tilted her head. "Ka-san?"

"It's just a nickname." Haruka said. "Heisuke, this is Nakano Takeko. Or did you pick up Akaoka-sensei's name?"

Nakano stuck her tongue out in disgust. "No way. Not after what he tried to do."

Haruka blinked. "Did…you forget to write to me about something?"

"Ah! Maybe I forgot to do so! He tried to get me to marry his nephew. I'm back to living with my family again. We're on kinda good terms, I still have my job as an instructor, so I'm doing fine."

Heisuke looked surprised. "You have a Menkyo? In what?"

"Hasso-Shoken. Though, Naginatajutsu is also something I mastered."

Heisuke gave a look at Haruka, she just shrugged. "You know as well as I do that Hokushin is popular around here. Hell, you and Sanan-san use it."

"Oh, is that your sword style, Toudou-san?" Nakano asked.

"You can call me Heisuke, but yeah, that's what I'm good at."

Hitomi crossed his arms. "Hmm. Not that surprising honestly." Hitomi smiled at Heisuke. "I'm Hitomi Katsutaro. And next to me is Motoyama Kotaro. We're both Okuzume like Shinomi-san, though you could say she's the leader of our group."

Haruka gave a scoff. "Yeah, a leader that isn't around much. That's more your job Hitomi-san."

Himoti gave a laugh. "That's true. I don't move much from Edo and give orders to the newcomers in your place."

"Speaking of newcomers…Where's Hachiro?"

"Ah, Iba actually went to Kyoto." Motoyama said. "He wanted to check on everyone."

Haruka sighed and shook her head. She already knew the real reason he was going was to check in on Chizuru. "Yeah…You'd be worried if the city your friends were protecting just suddenly caught fire." She looked at the three in front of her. "We're going to my estate. Miko is probably making lunch by now, want to join?"

"I haven't had Miko-san's cooking in so long!" Nakano said.

Hitomi nodded his head. "Sure, we can pay our favorite western fanatic a visit."

The five of them moved through the busy Edo streets, avoiding people best they could till they reached close to the outskirts of the city. Heisuke was amazed at the size of the place as they went inside. There was a smell of food in the air as they made their way through the halls. Reaching the kitchen, they saw Miko cooking food.

"Miko-san!" Nakano said to get her attention. Miko turned around, her long ponytail swaying aside.

"Ah, Nakano-chan. Oh! Haruka-sama, you're back. And with a guest I see."

Hitomi and Motoyama sighed as they were ignored, either in relife or disappointment is anyone's guess. Haruka motioned to Heisuke. "This is Toudou Heisuke, a member of the Shinsengumi."

Heisuke gave a short bow. "It's nice to meet you, Miko-san."

Miko smiled. "It's nice to meet you too, Toudou-kun. Or is there something better to call you?"

"Heisuke's fine."

"Then you're just like me! I'm Chiba Miko, but I prefer Miko." She then looked over at Hitomi and Motoyama. "And you two haven't even said hello at all."

Hitomi grinned. "Well, we were waiting for our chance. Right, Motoyama?"

Motoyama just tried his best to not be nervous. "Ah, yes! Just waiting for introductions to be over! How are you, Miko-san?"

Miko gave them a wide smile. "Oh, I'm just fine. Especially after learning you left a large tab at Oba-san's place for weeks." The smile unnerved Motoyama as he hid behind Hitomi as smoothly as he could. Haruka just sighed. "Really? Again? Do you two not learn?"

"We were on our way to pay it before we saw you." Hitomi explained. "And I'm not joking, we really were. You appeared with your new friend, whom we are going to take out for drinks later, and we got distracted. But..!" He looked over at Miko. "Now we can have Miko's great cooking!"

"Well…" Miko said to take over the conversation again, "Why don't you two go over to Oba-san's and pay the tab?"

"R-Right now?"

She smiled again. "Yes. That is, if you two intend to eat my meal."

Motoyama whispered to Hitomi. "H-Hitomi-san, I think we should. Remember last time?"

Hitomi nodded his head. "Right, right. Then…Motoyama and I will be right back!" The two of them left quickly to not catch more of Miko's ire.

"What happened last time?" Heisuke asked.

"They got shot at." The three girls said.

"Shot!?"

Miko giggled. "I'm good with a gun, among other things."

"I guess now I know not to make you mad…"

"Heisuke, mind if Takeko shows you where all the rooms are? There's plenty of them for you to choose from."

"Oh! Yeah, sure!"

Nakano smiled. "I'll even show you around!" The two of them left the kitchen, leaving Miko and Haruka alone.

"I'm glad you ran into them." Miko said. "Lunch wouldn't be close to ready."

Haruka laughed. "Yeah, Lunch wouldn't be ready at all." She walked over and watched Miko cook. "I'm going to hate tomorrow morning so much…"

"You just don't like getting dressed up."

"I don't mind dressing up officially. Being in the room with all those people and the Shogun is nerve wracking..Especially, if Katsu-san is there."

Miko made a face. "He doesn't like any of us anyway. Honestly, he should have just forgiven you instead of going to the extreme."

"No kidding. But I'll just…have to deal with him being there."

Miko sighed. "Honestly, doesn't Iemochi-sama see the way he treats you?"

"He does. But he can't exactly get rid of a man in that position can he? Literally the head of our navy and pushing us towards modernization. As much as I don't like him…I can't see anyone else taking his place."

"Oh! What about me?"

"Miko…No."

"Aw…"

"Anyway, You don't mind if Heisuke stays here right?"

"Oh, no, that's fine. I like company."

"And in about a month, Kondou-san will be here too."

"Oh? More company? You're getting very comfortable with your Shinsengumi friends."

"Hey…I'm just doing them a favor. They need more men and rather than spend money on an inn, it can be spent elsewhere."

"Mm, how kind of you. You seem like nice friends with that Vice Commander though."

Haruka's eye twitched. "Which reminds me…Stop giving Keisuke ideas."

Miko grinned. "Never, Haruka-sama."

Haruka sighed and smiled back. "I guess I'll just have to enjoy myself a bit while I'm here."

Heisuke had gotten up pretty early to get a headstart on finding men to join before he'd try and tackle getting Itou to join them. He walked down the halls as he wasn't used to the large estate yet. From one of the rooms, he saw sunlight trickling from the open door. He then took a peek inside.

Haruka was sitting down as Miko did her hair up into a bun. She was dressed in a teal Kimono with no pattern, with the sleeves ending in white cuffs. A purple kamishimo was on top of it, with her crest on each side of her chest, and a white sash tying everything together. The usual light blue makeup was traded for white, white eyelids, white lips, and a symbol on her forehead resembling a sort of snowflake.

"Ka-san?"

Haruka and Miko both looked at the door. "Heisuke. You're up early."

Heisuke took a few steps into the room. "Yeah, I wanted to start finding men early. But…What's all that?"

"Huh? Oh, you mean my official attire?"

"All that?"

Miko laughed as she finished putting the bun in place. "Haruka-sama is an official. Be it as an Okuzume, Hatamoto, or the leader of our clan, she still has to look the part when going in for an official meeting."

Haruka stood up and adjusted her clothing. "And I'm apparently at the first meeting of the day. Though it's strange…they usually aren't this early."

Heisuke crossed his arms. "Do you think something important came up?"

"Maybe, there's only one way to find out."

"Well, can I tag along?"

"To the castle?"

Heisuke grinned. "Yeah! You need a guard and since Shota isn't here, I figured I could!"

Haruka smiled. "Sure. I don't mind the company."

"Well then, I suppose I will plan for lunch. Those meetings can get long." Miko said as she led them down the hall to the entrance. She opened the door for them to walk though. "Don't stay out too late!"

Haruka just raised an eyebrow. "You're only a year older than me, you know. You're not my mother."

"Yes, but Himiko-sama told me to keep an eye on you."

"She did not mean it like that…"

"Oh? So Ka-san's Oka-san is worried about her?" Heisuke said.

"My mother can be a handful herself." Haruka tilted her head at Heisuke. "Honestly, where do you think my stubbornness came from?"

"Um, your father?"

Haruka laughed as she started to make her way out to the Edo streets, Heisuke running after her. "My father was the calmest person I've ever met!"

The streets were quiet, save for the few people setting up for the day. The morning shined down on them, the buildings, the alleys, and the street in front of them. Many people greeted Haruka on the way to the castle, as she had taken the route many times before. Heisuke looked around at everyone that called out 'Morning' to the supposed scary Icy Okuzume. They were all pretty friendly to him.

"Everyone seems pretty nice to you." Heisuke said as they stopped near the castle.

"Of course they do, I usually buy stuff from most of them. Not to mention, I only go this way when on business. They're just nice to their nearest Hatamoto."

"Just the Hatamoto side of you, huh?"

"Well, a couple times I have been ordered here as my other side. But still they treat me the same regardless. But now…What are you going to do?"

"I'm gonna see if anyone around here is looking for some work! Maybe the closest sake shop knows something…" Haruka then tossed Heisuke a coin purse. "What's this?"

"Just some money, in case you need something or some convincing."

Heisuke looked inside. "H-Hey! This is a lot!"

Haruka smiled. "Don't worry about it. Think of it as payback for hosting Shota and I."

Heisuke nodded his head before the two of them went their separate ways. Haruka made her way into the castle to see Hitomi waiting for her. "See you made it. Got a good night's rest?"

"It was fine. But how many will be attending today?"

"Actually, it's just you two today."

"Just…me and Iemochi-sama?"

"Yup. Lucky you, no Kaishu today."

Haruka sighed in relief as she followed Hitomi. "Good. I didn't want to be in the same room with him."

"Don't know why he can't just forgive you already. You were a kid, and kids make mistakes."

"You would think. But you know the real reason why."

Hitomi sighed as they stopped in front of a door. "Yeah. And I don't like it." Hitomi turned to the door. "Iemochi-Sama, Shinomi-san has arrived for the meeting."

"Please send her in."

"Right." He then smiled at Haruka. "Good luck." Sliding the door open, Haruka walked inside. True to his word, she was the only one in attendance as she approached the zabuton in front of the Shogun. She sat down on her knees and bowed to him. "Iemochi-sama. It's nice to see you again after a long time."

Iemochi smiled and bowed as Haruka straightened herself back. "And it's nice to see you again, Shinomi-sama. I hope you don't mind if it's just us today."

"I don't, I actually appreciate it, but, you don't have to use 'Sama' with me."

"I could, but it feels wrong. You are older than me and all."

"Does it make you feel that uncomfortable?"

"Just a bit."

"Even if I am older, you are in a higher position."

He shook his head. "I may be, but I do respect you much more than the others. You really don't get it that as much as you should."

"Ah…right. I guess so." Haruka cleared her throat. "Then may I ask why I was summoned."

"Did the Choshu really attack the Emperor's estate?"

"They attempted too, yes. They didn't make it much farther than the outer gates. But when that failed, they fled in many directions, and set fire to Kyoto."

"And what were they hoping to accomplish?"

"...Kidnapping the entire estate for Imperial power…"

"Then it's really what you wrote…"

"That is what Shota was able to confirm. And apparently, they started the fire at the Takatsukasa residence…along with a Choshu official's I believe..."

Iemochi sighed. "That's a lot to take in…But it still makes no sense to me."

Haruka slightly tilted her head. "Humans tend to be illogical at times. Especially in fits of anger."

"Yes, you are right." He smiled at her. "You were with the Shinsengumi, correct? Have you had any insight about Kodo's wearabouts?"

"No, but we're still looking. Trying to find an older bald man is actually more difficult than it seems."

The young Shogun laughed. "I see. Well, you are free to continue that task if you wish. Unless, you want to come back and lead the Okuzume?"

"I think I'll leave that to Hitomi-san."

"Alright. Ah, what about the Shinsengumi? Have they been difficult to work with?"

"They're fine. I..actually knew some of them from my childhood if you can believe that."

That caught his attention. "Really? Were you surprised to reunite with them again?"

"I only knew them for one day, but I was surprised when the boy I fought all those years ago was there. He's still good with his swordsmanship as he was back then."

"Oh!" He smiled. "Does that mean you two like each other?"

"Like each other?"

"Well, as friends or lovers?"

Haruka laughed a little. "I think he and I are just friends. He can be…annoying at times."

Iemochi laughed back. "Still, it's good to have people you know around you." He then looked at her a bit seriously. "May I ask you to stay a bit longer in Edo. There's more people joining the Okuzume and Hitomi can only handle so much."

"Hitomi-san is having trouble, huh?"

He smiled. "Just for a week, maybe instill some fear as the true captain of the Okuzume? I hope that's fine."

"Ah, so they are a rowdy bunch. Sure. I can do that."

"Thank you. Please send my regards to Chiba-san and Sasaki-san."

"Of course. I'll have Miko send some sweets to you."

"That would be wonderful." Then he remembered something. "One more thing. Is it true some of your kind have become involved?"

"Yes. Though I'm not sure of all their intentions."

"Then what exactly can you tell me?"

"Well, two are from Satsuma, and one from Choshu. The two from Satsuma are returning a debt to the domain. The one from Choshu however…I'm not that sure on. Shota hasn't found much out yet."

"Will you please keep me informed?"

"Of course." Haruka bowed before she got up. However, she stood there and looked at him. "Iemochi-sama…Do you truly intend to expel foreigners?"

"…That's what people want isn't it…"

"That's what most of the Imperialists want, yes."

"I wish we weren't at odds against each other. I'm trying my best to unite everyone, to understand, but I'm not that great at it. I feel like I've hit a wall."

"No one is great at what they do, Iemochi-sama. Have you tried talking with Tenno Heika again? Maybe you two can come to some conclusion. Or maybe just chat for a while. You two are not on the best of terms but it could change people's minds a bit more."

"Hmm…It might do so. Maybe next year? The cold is coming upon us for us to travel that far."

Haruka nodded her head. "That sounds like a good idea. Now, I should go and get those newcomers into shape." Haruka smiled at the shogun one last time before leaving the room, down the hall, to find Hitomi once again. "You didn't tell me you had new recruits."

"Oh, did he tell you that?" He grinned. "Must have slipped my mind, Taicho."

Haruka sighed. "Alright, let me go change and I'll come help you out."

"Take your time, they half listen to what I say."

"Hey! Can you all pay attention for a minute!" Hitomi's voice bellowed in the courtyard. The new recruits of the Okuzume were mostly sons of high officials and specific schoolings. Some were calm, others were arrogant, some were anxious. In total, about 56 men were in front of Hitomi.

"Taicho! Can we get to training already?"

"Yeah!"

"W-wait, maybe there's something important we need to learn?"

Hitomi grinned. "Yes, there is something important! You've known me as Captain for a while, but I'm not your true Captain. Today you meet the real leader of our squad." The newcomers looked at each other confused and curiously as they heard footsteps. Haruka walked up next to Hitomi. "The Real Captain of the Okuzume Squad is Shinomi Haruka. She will be in Kyoto for a while, if you pass by, inform her of any reports."

The men started to talk loudly about their new captain. "A woman?" "Seriously!? She looks kinda cute." "How good is she? Can she beat Hitomi-taicho?" Haruka was getting annoyed at the constant noise the men made. Noticing this, Hitomi stepped back as he grinned, knowing what was coming.

"ENOUGH!"

The men flinched.

"For a bunch of men to serve the Shogun, you surely don't look like it! When your Captain is speaking or introducing someone, you shut your mouth and listen! I bet half of you can't even hold your own ground against a real opponent!"

"H-Hey! I can hold my own-"

The young man was then hit by a damp towel. "Clean everyone's training weapons."

"Huh!? But-!" A bucket then hit him in the chest as he caught it. "Gah!" The young man slowly fell down to the ground as those around him watched.

"Anyone else like to join him?"

The men snapped to a standing position as Hitomi laughed. "If you did not know already, Shinomi-san here used to be called "The Shogun's Demon", and for good reasons. Now, I'm not an idiot to go and piss her off. I expect the same from all of you. For the next week, you will all learn how to deal with officials from her and how to be threatening in your own way." A young man raised his hand. "Yes?"

"W-What do you mean by learning to be threatening?"

Haruka put a hand on her hip. "Your job is not only to be a protector for whatever your assignment is. Be it to protect and escort, or document delivery, you need to learn to be threatening in the way that best suits you. You will be dealing with troublesome officials from time to time and I'm not going to allow you to be taken advantage of just for being new at your role."

"That's right." Hitomi nodded his head. "Shinomi-san is great at staring at her opponents with a deadly glare. She can also push your buttons till you are at your limit that you decide to leave or agree to her terms. I, on the other hand, can be your best friend until I get in your face once you fall out of line."

"Another member, Iba Hachiro, tends to not falter on his kind appearance. However, his words can have quite a bite behind them along with subtle actions."

"And if you always seem nervous, you can always appear suddenly cold to gain the upperhand."

Haruka tilted her head at Hitomi with a brow raised. "Is that how Kotaro handles it?"

"Yup. Proud?"

"Actually…Yes." She then tilted her head. "Where is he anyway?"

"Orders to Tosa."

"Ah..I wish him luck."

"So do I." He then turned to the newcomers. "Alright! How about we show Shinomi your swordsmanship!"

Kyoto

Shimu was laying down in the sun that entered Chizuru's room as she looked at herself in the mirror. She tied her hair up and adjusted her clothes. "I think this is good…"

She looked over her appearance again, adjusting once more. "..Do I really look enough like a boy like this? Maybe I should try speaking differently…" Adjusting her posture to appear a bit taller, she spoke into the mirror in a deeper voice.

"Uh…They think I look like a woman, huh? Heh, well, I'm just..a man with a cute face is all. I don't look like it, but I am manly.."

Shimu lifted his head up and sniffed the air for a second before going back to his sun bathed nap. Then there was a voice from the open door. "You sound like you're forcing it too much. Plus, talking with such bravado doesn't suit you."

Chizuru turned around to the voice quickly. "Iba-san? When did you get here?"

"Just a little while ago. Though, I didn't expect you to have a playful side."

Chizuru's face turned a bit red with embarrassment. She didn't expect anyone to be around to hear her or catch her doing such a thing. Iba however had caught her expression. "You're blushing…Did I say something I shouldn't have?"

"Oh! N-No. It wasn't anything you said…" She breathed in to calm herself a bit before speaking again. "Did you come to see Ane-san? Because she left for Edo the other day. Or to see Hijikata-san? He's also out today with Kondou-san."

"Oh no, I'm not here for either of them. I came here for you."

"For me?"

"Well, I heard about the fire and I wanted to check on everyone..And you as well, but, I was also looking for information on Kodo-san in Edo."

"Did you find anything?"

Iba, however, shook his head. "I visited the Yukimura Clinic, and even asked your neighbors, but…Unfortunately, there have been no signs of Kodo-san returning there. The inside even looked undisturbed since your departure."

"I see…" Her eyes fell to the floor in front of her, disappointed. More dead ends kept piling up. But if he isn't in Edo, then is he still in Kyoto? Then again, neither the Shinsengumi, Shota, or Haruka, have found a solid trace of him, especially after the destruction caused by the fire.

Seeing Chizuru going through her thoughts in silence, Iba tried to comfort her. "Chizuru-chan…It's still too early to assume the worst. Since arriving here, I've heard a lot of rumors of someone who looks like Kodo."

"Really!?"

Iba nodded his head. "And because of that, I wanted to ask a favor from the Shinsengumi…" Before he could explain further, a voice was heard from the doorway.

"I thought I heard a familiar voice. It was you, Iba-kun." It was Inoue. "I didn't expect you to be here, especially with Shinomi-kun having gone to Edo."

Iba gave him a smile. "Inoue-san, perfect timing. I have a favor to ask."

"Oh, I'd be happy to help in any way. What is it?"

"Is it possible for me to take Chizuru-chan outside of the compound? I wanted to take her with me to check on a rumor about Kodo-san."

Inoue's smile faltered a little. "Ah, I see. But I'm not the one you should be asking about that."

Iba looked at the kind man a bit confused. "Oh? You're not?"

Inoue laughed a bit. "I'm assuming you thought Shinomi-kun left her in our care. But you should be asking someone else." He then turned to the veranda. "Sasaki-kun?"

Shota's head appeared over the edge of the eaves, upside down. "Yes? Oh, hi Iba!"

Iba gave a chuckle. "Of course, she left Sasaki-san behind." He looked up at Shota. "Do you mind if I take Chizuru-chan out of the compound for a bit?"

"Hmm…Yeah. Just promise to protect her."

He nodded his head. "Don't worry. She's safe in my hands."

"Alright! If you need me, you know where to find me!"

Iba and Chizuru walked down the main street of Kyoto. For once, people weren't staring at her as they usually did when she went on rounds. It's as if they didn't recognize her at all and kept walking past her to do their business. But there was still an uneasiness being outside of the compound for her.

"Are you sure it's alright for me to be out like this?" Chizuru asked.

"I already got permission from Shota, you don't have to be worried about it. Though, I wouldn't be surprised if he was nearby keeping an eye on us."

"Oh, right." Even if Iba was given permission, Shota was still ordered to look after her. But this was an opportunity to look for her father. "Iba-san? Can I ask what the rumors were that you heard about my father?"

Iba froze at the question, avoiding her gaze as he searched for an answer. "I'm sorry, I need to be honest with you. Everything I said about the rumors about Kodo-san…They were lies…"

"Huh?" Chizuru stopped in her tracks, followed by Iba. "Lies? What do you mean?"

Iba finally looked at her again. "When I saw you earlier, you were very distraught. I couldn't bear seeing you like that. Then I thought, maybe taking you out of the compound would take your mind off things."

Chizuru didn't really know how to take this all in, or what to even say in response. Though it looked like she appreciated his concern, she eventually opened her mouth to speak. "Then you lied to both Inoue-san and Sasaki-san?"

Iba shifted a bit and gave her a wry smile. "Technically, yes…But I'm sure both of them saw through me. With the fire and Shinomi-san being away, you haven't had much time outside to look for Kodo-san." He then put a hand on her shoulder. "I truly believe that Kodo-san isn't dead, Chizuru-chan. A western doctor with his skill wouldn't be killed off by any domain carelessly, I'm sure."

The young girl looked a bit more at ease by his words. She took it all in for a few seconds before bowing to him. "Thank you very much. I agree with you about my father but…if I can't get any information on him, it might be best for us to return."

Iba's eyes widened as he was taken aback. "Hold on a minute, if we go back that defeats the whole purpose of taking you out…I wanted to take your mind off of those matters.."

"I know, but…"

"Even both Inoue-san and Sasaki-san agree with me on needing to take things a bit easier. If we go back to the compound without you relaxing a bit, then it would tread on both of their courtesy." Iba took a breath to calm himself a bit more. "There's no Shinsengumi members around you. I know that isn't something that happens often, so why don't we do something you want to do?"

"What I want..?"

"Yes. You usually do what other people ask of you when you go out, don't you? So why not do something you want to do for once? It can be anything your heart desires."

CHizuru looked away from Iba as she thought. "Well…a stroll sounds nice.."

Iba blinked. "A stroll?"

"Yes. I get to go on rounds or follow up on leads with Ane-san but…I never get to just look around. So..Maybe we can do that?"

Iba smiled softly at her. "Alright. Then let's do that." The two of them started to walk down the main street. "I'm surprised it wasn't something else. You can ask for a hairpin or two, you know."

"Ah..well..maybe another time.." Chizuru said as she looked away from him, blushing.

The two of them walked for a while before Iba looked up to the sky. "I understand how you feel, the impatience, and the worry. But if that's all you focus on, time will just move slowly, and nothing will seem to change. You'll just get yourself sick, and I know your father wouldn't want you to risk your health for him."

"You really think so..?"

"I don't think anyone would want you sick. So let's just enjoy ourselves, Chizuru-chan."

"Right.."

They continued to walk, passing by many people on their way to where they needed to be. Passing them were also girls Chizuru's age, dressed in fashionable Kimono and hairpins. She couldn't help but look at them. They even wore makeup, something you would rarely see back in Edo. Iba noticed her looking at them.

"They say those from Kyoto spend more money on clothes." Chizuru looked back at Iba as he spoke. "And those from Osaka love luxurious meals. I think that what they say about Kyoto is true, what with how fashionable the girls are."

"Yeah…I think you might be right about that, Iba-san."

"I think you'd look lovely wearing a fine kimono like these girls. It's a shame you can't at the moment for your safety."

Chizuru was stunned for a moment before giving a small laugh. "You're joking…"

"I'm not. I would love to see you in an elegant kimono one day, I will look forward to it."

Eventually, the two approach a familiar spot. The tea shop where the two had met and had the encounter with Takeda. "Oh, this is that tea shop. Would you like to stop here for a bit, Chizuru-chan?"

"Maybe another time, Iba-san. If I can't get information there, I'd rather not."

Iba chuckled. "You are such a serious person. That is something to admire, though. We should set time aside next time for some tea."

"Oh! A-Alright."

They went on their way again and came to the main road once more as Iba remembered something. "I just remembered! Kyoto has a delicious sweet called Castella that can only be found here! I heard it's made of eggs but still sweet. I'd love to try it with you someday. We can even bring Shinomi-san if you want."

Chizuru started to feel a bit excited. "If we do..we could take it to the tea shop and have it there."

A big grin appeared on Iba's face. "I like that idea."

The sky had started to turn orange as they walked for a few hours. Chizuru noticed and looked over at Iba. "Iba-san. It's getting late…Should we return to the compound?"

"Hmm?" Iba took a glance at the sky before focusing back on Chizuru. "Oh. You're right. I suppose we should, though I don't really want this to end just yet."

"B-but there will be another time where we can take a stroll again, right?"

"Yes, I'm sure there'll be another time I pass by here again and we can take another stroll." He smiled but there was a sadness behind his eyes that she could notice. The same sadness when she couldn't remember him at all from her childhood.

"Iba-san…I wanted to say that I'm still sorry for not remembering you. I feel..guilty for not being able to."

Iba chuckled a bit. "It's alright. When we met, you were only five. I think I was about…Nine." Chizuru looked surprised a bit before trying hard to remember at all with this new information. "Chizuru-chan, I'd like to see if maybe..this will work."

"...What will work?"

"Do you remember the promise I made?"

"Promise? …Do you mean back at the tea shop?"

Iba sighed a little before giving her a smile. "No. But that's okay, I'm sure one day it will come back to you."

"You won't tell me what it is?"

"..You remembering it would be better than just telling you. You'd feel like you accomplished something, won't you?" He still had this sad look in his eyes but he didn't want to ruin what he had wanted to accomplish in the first place. "We should head back now. Unless there was something else you wanted to do?"

"Oh, no. Let's go, Iba-san."

The two made their way back to the headquarters as the sun set. Iba stayed there a bit longer for a cup of tea with Gen before heading out of the compound. When he was far from the entrance, Shota hopped down from his hiding place next to Iba. "Had fun?"

"I did, for the most part. Did you keep an eye on us the entire time?"

"Eh, only for a little bit. After that, I just hung out with Shimu for a nap." He then looked at him seriously. "So, where are you headed to now?"

"Back to Edo. I'm supposed to get my next assignment from Hitomi-san."

"I wonder if you'll see Haruka-nee or just miss her. Either way, I'm sure she'd probably yell at you."

Iba gave a strained laugh. "Yes..I'm sure Shinomi-san would."

"Well, have a safe trip."

Edo

"Thanks for coming with me, Takeko."

"No problem!"

The two girls were walking around Edo's busy streets near evening at the end of the busy week. Haruka was in search of something in particular to bring back for everyone since it had been a while many of them had gone back home.

"See anything yet?"

Haruka looked around. "Hmm..I'm not sure what would be a good gift."

Nakano spotted something and pointed. "Hey! What about some Omamori? There's a bunch of different designs too."

Haruka came over and looked at them. "Oh. You're right. Plus, what's a little protection for men that risk their lives for Kyoto?" Nakano and Haruka smiled at each other as they tried to pick the perfect one for each of the men. Nearly 100 of them, as they were put into two different pouches for Haruka to carry. After they were paid the two girls went on their way.

"Would you like to stay for dinner tonight?" Haruka asked.

"And have more of Miko's cooking? I wouldn't mind! Oh! Can I stay over too? I want to be there when you leave tomorrow."

"Your mother wouldn't mind?"

"Hey, I'm responsible. She doesn't have to worry about me. Who she has to look out for is Yuko."

"She's 12 now, isn't she?"

"Yup. I'm teaching her Hasso too. She's just starting but she seems to learn fast."

Haruka smiled. "That's because her older sister is an instructor."

"Is that a compliment?"

"Of course it is. You learned it pretty quickly, didn't you? Even got a license. Doesn't surprise me that your sister is too."

"Yeah, you're probably right."

The two entered the Shinomi estate and made their way to the common room there. Inside was Heisuke, lying on the floor, exhausted. When the door opened he looked at the door and sat up. "Ka-san, you're back."

"You look like you were having a nap or something." Nakano pointed out.

"I was sorta all over the place today." Heisuke said as the two sat down near him. "Oh! But I did manage to find Itou-san and talk with him today."

Haruka tilted her head a bit. "What did he say?"

"He said he would think about it. And that he wanted to talk with Kondou-san when he gets here next month. That has to be a good sign, right?"

"Itou-san does like to get to know the people he's dealing with. I typically keep my walls up around him as he's a bit…eccentric."

"Eccentric?" Nakano raised an eyebrow.

"He's just a bit odd to me, that's all. I'm..sure he'd be a fine edition if he joined."

"I hope so." Heisuke said. "But even if he doesn't, I'll at least come back with a bunch of guys ready to protect Kyoto!"

"Oh, that reminds me.." Haruka reached for one of the pouches and looked through it. She picked one out and handed it to Heisuke. "Here. This one's for you."

Heisuke took the Omamori and held it up to his face. It was yellow with a dog on it. "You got this for me?"

"Yup. I was getting something for everyone back in Kyoto and I couldn't just not get you one."

Heisuke looked at it for a bit before he smiled. "Thanks, Ka-san. I'm sure everyone will like them."

Miko then came into the room with trays of food. "Well, before she goes giving more gifts away, let's have a feast before she leaves."

"Yes! Dinner time!" Heisuke shouted.

"How much of a feast?" Haruka asked.

"Hmmm…I made some deals today so there's plenty of food. I even invited Hitomi over when he's done with work."

Nakano raised an eyebrow. "You never invite Hitomi-san over."

Miko smiled. "Today is a special day. Plus, he's to see her off tomorrow as well."

Haruka rolled her eyes playfully. "You're making this too big of a deal…" She then smiled. "But I guess we should eat what you prepared." Nakano and Heisuke looked excited as they both started to eat some of the dishes Miko brought as she went to get the rest of it. Haruka just watched them for a bit before reaching for some herself. As it got darker, Hitomi arrived with a bottle of Sake for the five of them to share for the rest of the night.

At the port the ship that was headed to Osaka was docking. The group looked at it as it unloaded barrels and people. "So, you sure you don't want to stick around?" Hitomi looked over at Haruka as he leaned back against the stone wall.

"As much as I would love to boss you around all day, I still have an assignment to do back there."

"Ah. Right. Still nothing?"

"Yeah.."

Heisuke then spoke up. "I went over to the clinic like I promised Chizuru I would. But there's nothing there but dust.."

"That's fine. It means he hasn't moved from Kyoto or at least that area."

Nakano perked her head up when she saw someone from the ship. "Oh! Hey look!" The group looked over and saw what she'd seen. Hitomi looked over at Haruka.

"I'll let you handle this, Taicho." He grinned.

"Uh-huh…" Haruka walked down the stairs to meet with them. "Hachiro."

"O-oh! Shinomi-san. It's nice to see you again."

"Yes. Very nice." She crossed her arms. "How was Kyo?"

"K-Kyo? Ah..Yes. Everything went fine. Nothing happened while you were gone."

"Good. Well, everyone is waiting for you upthere. I have to get on that boat."

"Mm. Right. Have a safe trip, Shinomi-san." Iba started to walk past her.

"Ah. One more thing, Hachiro."

"Yes- ow!" Haruka had hit him in the back of the head. The Heisuke and Nakano flinched when they saw it happen. Hitomi let out a small laugh as Miko sighed.

"I know you worry for her, but don't go doing that often. You hear me?"

"But Hitomi-san…"

"I know he gave you permission. But you lied about the truth about it. Don't make it a habit."

"Y-Yes..Taicho."

"Go on. I've done enough scolding this week."

Iba nodded as he went to join the others. "Don't feel bad, Iba-kun." Hitomi said. "She's just giving tough love."

Iba was rubbing the back of his head. "Yeah..well it certainly hurts."

"Not even Iba is safe from Ka-san's anger."

Nakano laughed a bit. "No one's safe though, Heisuke."

"Yeah, that's true!"

Miko looked up at the ship. "There she is. And it looks like it's about to part."

Haruka looked out from the deck to the group she left behind. Nakano and Heisuke both waved at her shouting goodbye. Haruka waved back to them in silence. The boat departed and they watched it till it was out of their sight. Iba, Hitomi, and Nakano started to leave. But as Miko did, Heisuke grapped her hand.

"Miko, I wanted to ask something."

"What is it, Heisuke?"

"I…I want to be adopted by Ka-san's family."

Miko's eyes widened. "What do you mean?"

"…I want to be her brother."

Miko crossed her arms thinking. "Well…This is a heavy topic."

"Huh?"

She then smiled. "Come. Let's go back to the estate and have some tea. This is a big decision and with a lot to discuss about. I want to make sure you understand everything."

"Right!"