Tortured & Alone
Yet another emotional episode...However, this episode is of significance as for the first time...Yamazaki Susumu cried and genuinely smiled for the first time!!! Okay, I know that's really a lame reason, considering that other major events occured within the span of this episode...
Summary: Ayu died at the hands of the exclusionist loyalists and her body was ruthlessly cast away into the rain like garbage. The 2nd and 10th units of the Shisengumi stormed the area near Shijo Ohhashi Bridge with Sano & Shinpachi in the lead. While the Shinsengumi were preparing for mobilization, Tetsu went to inform Susumu about the discovery of his sister's body. The "talk" ended with a stunned Susumu on the ground and Tetsu stomping away in tears.
Brother & Sister meet... 
Forever gone...The heart-wrenching scene[Further enhanced by tragic piano music]where Tetsu hugs the bloodied kimono of Ayu and sobs made my eyes water. However, the part when Susumu cradles his sister's corpse while Shinpachi, Sano and Tetsu stare in shock, dampaned my mood for good.
The Shinsengumi held a private funeral for Ayu as she was their spy. However, it was clear that everyone mourned her loss personally. Even Hijikata who was supposedly emotionless.
Meanwhile Susumu was up on the roof, silently grieving. Tetsu joins him and ends up comforting him.
Then came the most touching scene...Tetsu offers Susumu friendship...
And Ayu watches the happy ending to this tragic episode...
Although the episode was plotless, I still reckon it as one of the best as it deals with the pain of loss and regret. Especially that of a estrangled loved one...
