Peace Maker Kurogane

Tetsu is a very short boy with red hair who wants to join the Shinsengumi. However, in order to do so he must face one of their greatest soldiers in combat.

Tetsu spends days waiting outside in the pouring to join the army but Hijikata still refuses. After Soji persists, Hijikata finally lets him join, but only as a servant.

Still aspiring to become an inspector, Tetsu follows a disguised Susumu as he investigates a Kyoto thrift shop that is being harassed by the Mibu Ronin.

While being punished by Hijikata for training in the dojo without permission, Tetsu learns more about Soji, the Captain of the 3rd Squad who can see and feel the presence of the dead.

Tetsu shares the story of his parents' murder with Saya, a mute girl with a similar past.

Left out of the Shinsengumi Battle Competition, a bored Tetsu spars with Soji. During their training session, Soji asks Tetsu to consider the gravity of what it means to join the Shinsengumi.