Bloody Journal of the Shinsengumi

A two-part special. Okiyo and Otaka meet Kondo Isamu, little realizing that he would play a big part in their lives in the coming years. The Shinsengumi grows to 40 members and their reputation grows.

The Shinsengumi is split into two factions. One is led by Kondo Isamu and includes Hijikata and other swordsmen from Edo, the other by Arasawa, a former Mito clansman. Together with the Aizu Clan, they share the duty of protecting Kyoto city.

As Kotsuru and Shinakai's love grows, Kondo worries about their relationship. Inoue Genzaburo is humiliated by a clansmen from Higo and they decide have a duel. Kondo, realizing their danger, rushes to intervene.

A new member joins the Shinsengumi. Kano Sozaburo is extremely handsome and skilled in the martial arts. But his popularity creates jealousy among some members. Meanwhile, Yuzawa is slain by an unknown assailant. However, Kondo determines that Tashiro is Yuzawa's killer and orders Kano to take revenge.

Ito Koshitaro plans an invasion on the Shinsengumi headquarters by taking advantage of a Shinsengumi member. Nagasaka has an encounter with Mito clansmen. Fearing reprisal, Kondo secretly orders Nagasaka out of the city.

Hijikata and Yamanami are at odds over the mission of the Shinsengumi. Ito Koshitaro becomes the catalyst that causes the members to break up into factions. And Yamanami bids a final farewell to his lover Akisato.