Reimeiroku Harada Route Chapter 3
This was planned to be a birthday present to a Sano lover. ;)
But it's been a while since I do a full chapter review, and I forgot how long it's gonna take. So I'm like... 4 days late? Gomennasai~
The key event of Harada route is Harada dragging Ryu to go and apologize to Kosuzu. But it's in the anime, so allow me to skip to Ch3. XD
When everyone's trying on the new uniform in excitement, and Ryu refused to join, Souji asked about his opinion.
Ryu: It's nice, isn't it? See how everyone loves it.
Heisuke: You think so too? Having a uniform really lifts the spirit!
Sano: Yep. Every man needs a battle attire. Although Heisuke looks like he's attending Shichi-Go-San*.
*Shichi-Go-San (753) - rite of passage for children 3, 5, and 7 years old.
Heisuke: Who's attending Shichi-Go-San!! No one wears haori like this for Shichi-Go-San! And if this makes me look like in Shichi-Go-San, doesn't it make Shinpattsuan look like a firefighter or street comedian?
Shinpachi: Aah? Heisuke, how dare you! This haori is totally designed for me! What's wrong with your taste?
Saitou: Heisuke, Sano, Shinpachi, calm down. How it looks doesn't matter, as long as it's helpful for our duties.
Ryu: Yep. Quit arguing like kids.
Heisuke: Hajime-kun & Ryunosuke be the judge then. Which of us looks the best in the uniform?
Sano: Bring it on. If you want a contest, I'm not gonna lose.
Heisuke: Count Sano-san and Shinpattsuan as one group. It makes no difference for seniors.
Shinpachi: What? You little brat, don't be too cheeky!
Heisuke: Hajime-kun, Ryunosuke! Who do you think this uniform suits better? Me, or those two?
Shinpachi: Of course it's me! People call me the reincarnation of Ooboshi Yuranosuke*!
*Ooboshi Yuranosuke - Main character in the Japanese ballad puppet drama "Kanadehon Chuushingura", based on the story of the Forty-seven Ronin. (This story is also where the design of Shinsengumi's uniform came from.)
Heisuke: Ha! Dumb-ass! Ooboshi Yuranosuke is a fictional character!
Sano: Alright, Saitou, Ryunosuke. Who looks the best? Say it out straight. I won't get angry.
Ryu: What do you mean you won't? You already sound angry!
Heisuke: Don't be threatened by Sano-san. Just tell us!
Ryu: Enough! Everyone looks great! Okay?
Heisuke: Everyone? Ryunosuke is so indecisive.
Shinpachi: You can't even decide who's best? I'm disappointed.
Sano: That's just unmanly.
Ryu: What's that? You were fighting a moment ago. How could you gang up on me so fast?
Another day, Ryu ran into Souji and Sano in the streets, and asked if they're patrolling.
Souji: Like anyone would casually go for a walk in a flashy haori like this. Are those eyes on your face, or just ornaments?
Sano said he's going for another round near the Satsuma mansion behind the Imperial district, and invited Ryu to join so he wouldn't have to go back early and be driven around by Serizawa-san.
During the walk, Sano mentioned that it's too quiet today. Especially after those random killing in streets lately. Ryu said it's like calm before the storm, so better not let their guard down. Sano laughed.
Sano: Now aren't you talking like one of Roshigumi! You used to say "I have nothing to do with Roshigumi" all the time.
Ryu: Cut it out. I'm not planning to become one of you.
Ryu asked if Sano doesn't mind being frowned upon by the townsfolk. Sano replied in a big-hearted manner.
Sano: Huh? Back in Edo we got in fights with guys in other dojo, and then groundless rumors flowed around. It's nothing to be concerned about.
Ryu: But this can't be good for fund raising and recruiting. Heisuke seems very depressed too.
Sano: I admit I do feel uneasy about this. But this isn't my concern. When it comes to thinking, I'm not half good as Hijikata-san and Sannan-san. So rather than trying to come up with unwanted advice, isn't it better to do the things I'm good at? Such as patrolling and training soldiers. If we do what we can, things won't worsen to an irrevocable degree. That's what I believe.
Ryu was thinking this seems wise, but he can't adopt a clear-cut attitude like this. Sano suddenly ruffled Ryu's hair.
Ryu: What the... What are you doing?
Sano: Like me, you aren't good at thinking, right? So don't waste your time on worrying.
Video of this part.
Ryu noticed a soldier, Sasaki Aijirou, was looking around uneasily like searching for somebody. Sano noticed too. He grinned and called out to Sasaki.
Startled, Sasaki apologized for not focusing on duty.
Sano: Nah. I'm not going to scold you. There's one thing I want you to do. The other day when we patrolled this area, you saved a lass from a ronin pestering her, didn't you?
Sasaki: Ye... yes! What about her?
Sano: I wonder if the ronin learned his lesson. He might go back looking for trouble. The lass lives hear here, right? Go and ask her if anything strange happened lately.
Sasaki replied in a serious manner and left. Ryu wondered why he knows where the girl lives, and looked to Sano.
Sano: It's part of our duty to keep the citizens of capital city safe.
But Ryu noticed a few soldiers in the back snickering.
Sano: Speaking of lass, any progress between you and that lass?
Ryu: Who?
Sano: That maiko. Her name is Kosuzu, right?
Ryu: Wha... Nothing at all! I didn't go to Shimabara recently, so we didn't even meet.
Sano: Just go with Serizawa-san. Surely he'd enjoy your company, since Niimi-san is busy with experiments lately.
Ryu: How could I go with Serizawa-san? What if she gets another hit on her forehead again?
Sano: I see. So you refrain from seeing her in order to protect her.
Ryu: Don't twist my words! Besides, considering the situation now, this isn't the time to have fun in teahouse *, right?
Sano: I think in situation like this, some moderate relaxation is important.
Ryu: Relaxation?
Sano: Yes. No one can stay in high tension all the time. Oftentimes on the night after I had battles, my body is still in tense and I couldn't sleep. If this keeps on, the body will collapse. So there's a need for relaxation for the body and mind.
On 6/3, Ryu decided to stay in Kyoto when Serizawa, Kondou, and most of the captains went to Osaka to wipe out the lawless ronin's hideout.
That evening, Hijikata asked Ryu to go to Shimabara with them. Ryu was startled.
Hijikata: Do you need to be that dumbfounded?
Ryu: Ah. Nah. I was thinking, it's normal for Serizawa-san, but I never expected to hear this from you... Well, you're a man too. So I guess it's not surprising for you to take a breather there. But won't you consider somewhere less expensive?
Hijikata: You've mistaken. I'm not simply throwing money away in teahouse.
Hijikata passed Ryu a letter. Ryu made sure if it's okay for him to read it.
Hijikata: I won't hand it to you unless it's fine. Read it already.
It's a love letter from a geisha in Shimabara. A very passionate one too. Ryu asked if Hijikata is showing off.
Hijikata: Well, I can't deny the fact that many women fall for me. It's understandable if you feel like I'm showing off.
Ryu: What's that about? Are you saying I'm unpopular?
Hijikata: Whatever. Let's get to the point. That woman asked me to appoint her at least once. But it's peculiar for her to be so passionate.
Ryu: You're right. But love at first sight happens.
Hijikata: It seems that she's favored by Choshu ronin, and is frequently called to their banquet chamber.
Ryu: Could that mean...
Hijikata: She has the nerve to try to draw information from me. Making a fool of me huh.
He decided to use her and see what info he can get. Ryu doubted if that's possible, but Hijikata's determined.
Hijikata: It's because I can't rely on Serizawa-san all the time.
Ryu recalled Serizawa and Hijikata's argument before they went to Osaka.
Ryu: I see what you mean. But what do you need me for? I don't think I can help.
Sano: Hey Ryunosuke, don't be so blunt. If the vice commander of Roshigumi visits the redlight district alone, wouldn't that be weird? We need an excuse to fool the Choshu ronin behind that woman.
Seeing Sano's grin, Ryu got a bad feeling. Sano said their excuse would be "showing the little brother how to take up with a girl in redlight district".
Ryu: Wait! Who's the little brother taking up with a girl?
Sano: You, of course! Who else?
Ryu: What do you mean "of course"? Why me? If you need a little brother, grab Heisuke!
But Hijikata said Heisuke got his important task to do. Ignoring Ryu's complaint, Sano dragged him out to get prepared.
Video of this part
Soon they're in an ageya *. Hijikata went to meet the geisha, while Sano and Ryu stayed on guard in the next room.
Sano: First of all, it's strange to not call any women at a place like this. Ryunosuke, what type of girl do you like? Someone with fair complexion? Someone of small stature?
Ryu: Wha... Does it matter? We're not here for women!
Sano: You're right. But if we're appointing anyway, might as well get someone suits our taste. Ah! How about that maiko? Her name is Kosuzu, right?
Ryu: Wha... wha... What do you mention her for?
Sano: Well! You're blushing! You don't get to come here often. Why not seize the chance to see her?
Ryu: I don't particularly...
Sano: C'mon, don't be shy! I bet she wants to see you too.
Ryu: But... but wouldn't it trouble her to suddenly call her here? She'd need time to prepare...
Sano: What are you talking about? That's what geisha and maiko do for a living. They're used to receiving an aijou*. Hurry up and write one!
*When you want to see a geisha or courtesan, go to an ageya, write an aijou (逢状, literally "meeting note"), and send it to her okiya (geisha house). The okiya then sends the girl to ageya.
Ryu: Well... If you want to see her that much, alright. But I'm telling you, that doesn't mean that I wanted to call her. It's because you're so persistent!
Sano: Fine. Fine. Why can't you be more honest?
After sending an aijou to the okiya Kosuzu's in, she appeared in no time, in gorgeous kimono and ornaments.
Kosuzu: I am Kosuzu. Thank you for appointing me.
After a respectful bow, Kosuzu came to Ryu's side, smiling joyfully like a little girl.
Kosuzu: I didn't expect to get an aijou from Ibuki-han. I'm so happy to see you again.
Ryu: Well... I don't know any other maiko anyway.
Kosuzu: What's that supposed to mean? If you know another maiko, you would appoint her?
Ryu: That's not what I'm saying.
Ryu looked toward Sano, but Sano only told him to have fun, and started drinking by himself.
Kosuzu: Harada-han, allow me to pour sake for you. It's part of my job.
Sano: Nah. I feel bad to have a child pour sake for me.
Kosuzu: I'm not a child! I can do my job right in banquet chamber.
Ryu: Really? When staying up late, don't you doze off in banquets?
Kosuzu: I don't! Only 3 or 4 times...
Ryu: You actually did?!
Kosuzu blushed in embarrassment.
Kosuzu: That's... because we always have to get up at dawn. So I feel sleepy when staying up late.
Ryu: Be careful, alright? What if you get taken somewhere when you're asleep?
Kosuzu: The emblem of our geisha house is woven on our belts. So we'll be sent back to our house even if in sleep.
Ryu: I see. ... But is it alright for you to be sound asleep in a banquet?
Kosuzu: Awww! That was only when I first became a maiko. Ibuki-han, why do you keep saying things so mean?
Ryu himself wondered why he can't control his mouth in front of Kosuzu.
Kosuzu: Would you like some sake? Let me pour some for you.
Ryu: No. I don't drink.
Kosuzu: How about cuisine? Eel broiled with soy sauce, scallion salad with vinegar and miso, and gently boiled tofu skin. They all look very tasty.
Ryu: I have no appetite. You can have them if you want to.
Kosuzu: Maiko can't eat in banquet. It's not graceful, and the food may stain the kimono. Okaasan would scold us.
Ryu: It doesn't matter if no one tells. C'mon, help yourself.
Kosuzu: I won't. I'm not a girl of commoner family. As a maiko I...
Her stomach rumbled.
Ryu: As a maiko you?
Kosuzu: You... you're hearing things! How could I be so disgraceful as to have my stomach rumble in...
Ironically, her stomach rumbled again.
Ryu: I can't be hearing things twice.
Kosuzu: You're so wicked, Ibuki-han! Why do you say things like this? In this situation, it's common sense to pretend you didn't hear it! Idiot!! Meanie!!
Ryu tried to argue, but Kosuzu got angry and turned her back on him.
Ryu: C'mon, don't be angry, okay? If you're hungry, isn't it better to have some?
Suddenly Ryu noticed Sano staring outside with a scary face. He looked out the window, and saw a suspicious-looking man. He lowered his voice and asked.
Ryu: What do we do now? It's him, right? The one Hijikata-san mentioned...
Sano: Stay here. I'll be right back.
Sano got up and left.
Kosuzu: Causing a commotion again?
Ryu: If they're not asking for commotions, we won't do a thing. We're merely arresting the ronin who's being a menace to the city.
Kosuzu: From what I see, ronin and Roshigumi are no different. I don't understand about politics, but I think it's wrong to hurt or even kill people for that. They're human, not tigers or wolves. Why can't they solve their differences with words?
Ryu: That's...
Ryu found it hard to argue. He also thinks it's foolish to kill for this reason. Of course Harada and the others in Roshigumi knew this. But there are people who wouldn't communicate.
In this awkward silence, they heard a man's cry from outside.
Kosuzu: What... what's that?
Ryu: Kosuzu, stay here. I'll go check what's going on.
Kosuzu's face winced like she's gonna cry. Then she raised her head quietly, and spoke in shaky voice.
Kosuzu: If you see danger, please run away. Please be careful not to get hurt.
At the entrance of the ageya.
Sano: You're here. Didn't I tell you to stay inside? Well, as you can see, I'm done here. Safe and sound.
Ronin: Damn! Kill me! I'd rather die here than living in disgrace.
Sano: Don't be ridiculous. You know the rules. Bloodshed in red-light district is prohibited. Besides, we need some answers from you. Come with us.
The head clerk of the ageya rushed outside.
Head clerk: Sir, it's most troublesome to cause a commotion in front of our house...
Sano: We won't. I'm taking him back right away. Just bear with us for a little while.
Sano: What I hate most is someone making use of women for his evil deed. I'll make you pay.
With lowered voice and suppressed anger, Sano warned the ronin. Then he asked Ryu to tell Hijikata that he caught the rat snooping around.
As Ryu told what happened, the geisha beside Hijikata started weeping. She must be the one trying to set him up. Hijikata stood up quietly and told her.
Hijikata: You won't get away so easily if you keep doing this. There are many men in this world. He's not the only one who can bail you out of here. Don't get tangled with man like this anymore.
When Ryu's leaving with Hijikata...
Kosuzu: Ibuki-han!
Kosuzu stood in the hallway. Her dark, round rabbit-like eyes were moistened with sadness. Somehow Ryu felt that he couldn't face her, so he walked faster toward the door.
Kosuzu: Please send me an aijou again. I'll always be waiting.
Harada Route Chapter 4.
Notes
1. Hijikata's showing off popularity in Shimabara... was historical fact. Among the things Hijikata-san sent back to his home in Hino, there was a whole box of love letters he received from many geishas in Shimabara. XD
2. A brief description of Hanamachi (Japanese courtesan and geisha district) in Edo Era.
The triangle three businesses in Hanamachi are called Sangyou (三業) :
1) Ryoutei (料亭) - Luxurious traditional Japanese restaurant which provides refined furnished room, gourmet, and entertainment by geisha. We barely see this in Hakuoki though. Too high-class.
2) Okiya (置屋) - Geisha house (literally "boarding house") is the place where a maiko or geisha lives during her career life. The proprietress of the house, aka Okaasan ("mother"), pays for all the expenses and tuition fee for the maiko or geisha, and manages her business.
3) Machiai Chaya (待合茶屋) - "tea house for meeting" is a place to enjoy cuisine while entertained by geisha or courtesans, with the latter being the main purpose. (Often shortened as "machiai" or "ochaya".)
Its major differences from ryoutei are: 1) Ochaya don't serve cuisine directly, instead, they order from caterer or ryoutei. 2) There are beds in private rooms for courtesans to do their job.
In short, ochaya provides an affordable place, ryoutei provides food, and okiya provides entertainment.
Ageya (揚屋) serves the same purpose as ochaya, except that ageya can make its own cuisine.
Going to ageya is a luxury. Lower class courtesans aren't even allowed to step inside. It's the only place to meet high class courtesans like tayuu and oiran. When a tayuu enters ageya, the road often gets blocked by curious onlookers.
Sumiya, the restaurant where Roshigumi/Shinsengumi goes to when holding a banquet, is also a famous ageya.
Shimabara, Gion, and Yoshiwara (in Edo) are the Hanamachi mentioned in Hakuoki.
Personal comments
1. Hijikata-san! "I can't deny the fact that many women fall for me." ROTFL!
2. I'm surprised that Ryu is more mature in this route, regarding the samurai stuff. Look at what he said during patrol, and the unsaid argument with Kosuzu. Kosuzu's "violence is no good, you should talk with ronin" is the exact same argument Ryu had with Saitou throughout Saitou's chapter 4! XD
3. I think I'm falling for Sano here. He's so wise, fun, and caring for the love doves (Ryu & Kosuzu, and Sasaki & Aguri). Ah and the love doves. Sasaki tries to act like nothing happened. Ryu just stutters and blushes everytime Sano mentions Kosuzu. They're so sweet.
But it's been a while since I do a full chapter review, and I forgot how long it's gonna take. So I'm like... 4 days late? Gomennasai~
The key event of Harada route is Harada dragging Ryu to go and apologize to Kosuzu. But it's in the anime, so allow me to skip to Ch3. XD
When everyone's trying on the new uniform in excitement, and Ryu refused to join, Souji asked about his opinion.
Ryu: It's nice, isn't it? See how everyone loves it.
Heisuke: You think so too? Having a uniform really lifts the spirit!
Sano: Yep. Every man needs a battle attire. Although Heisuke looks like he's attending Shichi-Go-San*.
*Shichi-Go-San (753) - rite of passage for children 3, 5, and 7 years old.
Heisuke: Who's attending Shichi-Go-San!! No one wears haori like this for Shichi-Go-San! And if this makes me look like in Shichi-Go-San, doesn't it make Shinpattsuan look like a firefighter or street comedian?
Shinpachi: Aah? Heisuke, how dare you! This haori is totally designed for me! What's wrong with your taste?
Saitou: Heisuke, Sano, Shinpachi, calm down. How it looks doesn't matter, as long as it's helpful for our duties.
Ryu: Yep. Quit arguing like kids.
Heisuke: Hajime-kun & Ryunosuke be the judge then. Which of us looks the best in the uniform?
Sano: Bring it on. If you want a contest, I'm not gonna lose.
Heisuke: Count Sano-san and Shinpattsuan as one group. It makes no difference for seniors.
Shinpachi: What? You little brat, don't be too cheeky!
Heisuke: Hajime-kun, Ryunosuke! Who do you think this uniform suits better? Me, or those two?
Shinpachi: Of course it's me! People call me the reincarnation of Ooboshi Yuranosuke*!
*Ooboshi Yuranosuke - Main character in the Japanese ballad puppet drama "Kanadehon Chuushingura", based on the story of the Forty-seven Ronin. (This story is also where the design of Shinsengumi's uniform came from.)
Heisuke: Ha! Dumb-ass! Ooboshi Yuranosuke is a fictional character!
Sano: Alright, Saitou, Ryunosuke. Who looks the best? Say it out straight. I won't get angry.
Ryu: What do you mean you won't? You already sound angry!
Heisuke: Don't be threatened by Sano-san. Just tell us!
Ryu: Enough! Everyone looks great! Okay?
Heisuke: Everyone? Ryunosuke is so indecisive.
Shinpachi: You can't even decide who's best? I'm disappointed.
Sano: That's just unmanly.
Ryu: What's that? You were fighting a moment ago. How could you gang up on me so fast?
Another day, Ryu ran into Souji and Sano in the streets, and asked if they're patrolling.
Souji: Like anyone would casually go for a walk in a flashy haori like this. Are those eyes on your face, or just ornaments?
Sano said he's going for another round near the Satsuma mansion behind the Imperial district, and invited Ryu to join so he wouldn't have to go back early and be driven around by Serizawa-san.
During the walk, Sano mentioned that it's too quiet today. Especially after those random killing in streets lately. Ryu said it's like calm before the storm, so better not let their guard down. Sano laughed.
Sano: Now aren't you talking like one of Roshigumi! You used to say "I have nothing to do with Roshigumi" all the time.
Ryu: Cut it out. I'm not planning to become one of you.
Ryu asked if Sano doesn't mind being frowned upon by the townsfolk. Sano replied in a big-hearted manner.
Sano: Huh? Back in Edo we got in fights with guys in other dojo, and then groundless rumors flowed around. It's nothing to be concerned about.
Ryu: But this can't be good for fund raising and recruiting. Heisuke seems very depressed too.
Sano: I admit I do feel uneasy about this. But this isn't my concern. When it comes to thinking, I'm not half good as Hijikata-san and Sannan-san. So rather than trying to come up with unwanted advice, isn't it better to do the things I'm good at? Such as patrolling and training soldiers. If we do what we can, things won't worsen to an irrevocable degree. That's what I believe.
Ryu was thinking this seems wise, but he can't adopt a clear-cut attitude like this. Sano suddenly ruffled Ryu's hair.
Ryu: What the... What are you doing?
Sano: Like me, you aren't good at thinking, right? So don't waste your time on worrying.
Video of this part.
Ryu noticed a soldier, Sasaki Aijirou, was looking around uneasily like searching for somebody. Sano noticed too. He grinned and called out to Sasaki.
Startled, Sasaki apologized for not focusing on duty.
Sano: Nah. I'm not going to scold you. There's one thing I want you to do. The other day when we patrolled this area, you saved a lass from a ronin pestering her, didn't you?
Sasaki: Ye... yes! What about her?
Sano: I wonder if the ronin learned his lesson. He might go back looking for trouble. The lass lives hear here, right? Go and ask her if anything strange happened lately.
Sasaki replied in a serious manner and left. Ryu wondered why he knows where the girl lives, and looked to Sano.
Sano: It's part of our duty to keep the citizens of capital city safe.
But Ryu noticed a few soldiers in the back snickering.
Sano: Speaking of lass, any progress between you and that lass?
Ryu: Who?
Sano: That maiko. Her name is Kosuzu, right?
Ryu: Wha... Nothing at all! I didn't go to Shimabara recently, so we didn't even meet.
Sano: Just go with Serizawa-san. Surely he'd enjoy your company, since Niimi-san is busy with experiments lately.
Ryu: How could I go with Serizawa-san? What if she gets another hit on her forehead again?
Sano: I see. So you refrain from seeing her in order to protect her.
Ryu: Don't twist my words! Besides, considering the situation now, this isn't the time to have fun in teahouse *, right?
Sano: I think in situation like this, some moderate relaxation is important.
Ryu: Relaxation?
Sano: Yes. No one can stay in high tension all the time. Oftentimes on the night after I had battles, my body is still in tense and I couldn't sleep. If this keeps on, the body will collapse. So there's a need for relaxation for the body and mind.
On 6/3, Ryu decided to stay in Kyoto when Serizawa, Kondou, and most of the captains went to Osaka to wipe out the lawless ronin's hideout.
That evening, Hijikata asked Ryu to go to Shimabara with them. Ryu was startled.
Hijikata: Do you need to be that dumbfounded?
Ryu: Ah. Nah. I was thinking, it's normal for Serizawa-san, but I never expected to hear this from you... Well, you're a man too. So I guess it's not surprising for you to take a breather there. But won't you consider somewhere less expensive?
Hijikata: You've mistaken. I'm not simply throwing money away in teahouse.
Hijikata passed Ryu a letter. Ryu made sure if it's okay for him to read it.
Hijikata: I won't hand it to you unless it's fine. Read it already.
It's a love letter from a geisha in Shimabara. A very passionate one too. Ryu asked if Hijikata is showing off.
Hijikata: Well, I can't deny the fact that many women fall for me. It's understandable if you feel like I'm showing off.
Ryu: What's that about? Are you saying I'm unpopular?
Hijikata: Whatever. Let's get to the point. That woman asked me to appoint her at least once. But it's peculiar for her to be so passionate.
Ryu: You're right. But love at first sight happens.
Hijikata: It seems that she's favored by Choshu ronin, and is frequently called to their banquet chamber.
Ryu: Could that mean...
Hijikata: She has the nerve to try to draw information from me. Making a fool of me huh.
He decided to use her and see what info he can get. Ryu doubted if that's possible, but Hijikata's determined.
Hijikata: It's because I can't rely on Serizawa-san all the time.
Ryu recalled Serizawa and Hijikata's argument before they went to Osaka.
Ryu: I see what you mean. But what do you need me for? I don't think I can help.
Sano: Hey Ryunosuke, don't be so blunt. If the vice commander of Roshigumi visits the redlight district alone, wouldn't that be weird? We need an excuse to fool the Choshu ronin behind that woman.
Seeing Sano's grin, Ryu got a bad feeling. Sano said their excuse would be "showing the little brother how to take up with a girl in redlight district".
Ryu: Wait! Who's the little brother taking up with a girl?
Sano: You, of course! Who else?
Ryu: What do you mean "of course"? Why me? If you need a little brother, grab Heisuke!
But Hijikata said Heisuke got his important task to do. Ignoring Ryu's complaint, Sano dragged him out to get prepared.
Video of this part
Soon they're in an ageya *. Hijikata went to meet the geisha, while Sano and Ryu stayed on guard in the next room.
Sano: First of all, it's strange to not call any women at a place like this. Ryunosuke, what type of girl do you like? Someone with fair complexion? Someone of small stature?
Ryu: Wha... Does it matter? We're not here for women!
Sano: You're right. But if we're appointing anyway, might as well get someone suits our taste. Ah! How about that maiko? Her name is Kosuzu, right?
Ryu: Wha... wha... What do you mention her for?
Sano: Well! You're blushing! You don't get to come here often. Why not seize the chance to see her?
Ryu: I don't particularly...
Sano: C'mon, don't be shy! I bet she wants to see you too.
Ryu: But... but wouldn't it trouble her to suddenly call her here? She'd need time to prepare...
Sano: What are you talking about? That's what geisha and maiko do for a living. They're used to receiving an aijou*. Hurry up and write one!
*When you want to see a geisha or courtesan, go to an ageya, write an aijou (逢状, literally "meeting note"), and send it to her okiya (geisha house). The okiya then sends the girl to ageya.
Ryu: Well... If you want to see her that much, alright. But I'm telling you, that doesn't mean that I wanted to call her. It's because you're so persistent!
Sano: Fine. Fine. Why can't you be more honest?
After sending an aijou to the okiya Kosuzu's in, she appeared in no time, in gorgeous kimono and ornaments.
Kosuzu: I am Kosuzu. Thank you for appointing me.
After a respectful bow, Kosuzu came to Ryu's side, smiling joyfully like a little girl.
Kosuzu: I didn't expect to get an aijou from Ibuki-han. I'm so happy to see you again.
Ryu: Well... I don't know any other maiko anyway.
Kosuzu: What's that supposed to mean? If you know another maiko, you would appoint her?
Ryu: That's not what I'm saying.
Ryu looked toward Sano, but Sano only told him to have fun, and started drinking by himself.
Kosuzu: Harada-han, allow me to pour sake for you. It's part of my job.
Sano: Nah. I feel bad to have a child pour sake for me.
Kosuzu: I'm not a child! I can do my job right in banquet chamber.
Ryu: Really? When staying up late, don't you doze off in banquets?
Kosuzu: I don't! Only 3 or 4 times...
Ryu: You actually did?!
Kosuzu blushed in embarrassment.
Kosuzu: That's... because we always have to get up at dawn. So I feel sleepy when staying up late.
Ryu: Be careful, alright? What if you get taken somewhere when you're asleep?
Kosuzu: The emblem of our geisha house is woven on our belts. So we'll be sent back to our house even if in sleep.
Ryu: I see. ... But is it alright for you to be sound asleep in a banquet?
Kosuzu: Awww! That was only when I first became a maiko. Ibuki-han, why do you keep saying things so mean?
Ryu himself wondered why he can't control his mouth in front of Kosuzu.
Kosuzu: Would you like some sake? Let me pour some for you.
Ryu: No. I don't drink.
Kosuzu: How about cuisine? Eel broiled with soy sauce, scallion salad with vinegar and miso, and gently boiled tofu skin. They all look very tasty.
Ryu: I have no appetite. You can have them if you want to.
Kosuzu: Maiko can't eat in banquet. It's not graceful, and the food may stain the kimono. Okaasan would scold us.
Ryu: It doesn't matter if no one tells. C'mon, help yourself.
Kosuzu: I won't. I'm not a girl of commoner family. As a maiko I...
Her stomach rumbled.
Ryu: As a maiko you?
Kosuzu: You... you're hearing things! How could I be so disgraceful as to have my stomach rumble in...
Ironically, her stomach rumbled again.
Ryu: I can't be hearing things twice.
Kosuzu: You're so wicked, Ibuki-han! Why do you say things like this? In this situation, it's common sense to pretend you didn't hear it! Idiot!! Meanie!!
Ryu tried to argue, but Kosuzu got angry and turned her back on him.
Ryu: C'mon, don't be angry, okay? If you're hungry, isn't it better to have some?
Suddenly Ryu noticed Sano staring outside with a scary face. He looked out the window, and saw a suspicious-looking man. He lowered his voice and asked.
Ryu: What do we do now? It's him, right? The one Hijikata-san mentioned...
Sano: Stay here. I'll be right back.
Sano got up and left.
Kosuzu: Causing a commotion again?
Ryu: If they're not asking for commotions, we won't do a thing. We're merely arresting the ronin who's being a menace to the city.
Kosuzu: From what I see, ronin and Roshigumi are no different. I don't understand about politics, but I think it's wrong to hurt or even kill people for that. They're human, not tigers or wolves. Why can't they solve their differences with words?
Ryu: That's...
Ryu found it hard to argue. He also thinks it's foolish to kill for this reason. Of course Harada and the others in Roshigumi knew this. But there are people who wouldn't communicate.
In this awkward silence, they heard a man's cry from outside.
Kosuzu: What... what's that?
Ryu: Kosuzu, stay here. I'll go check what's going on.
Kosuzu's face winced like she's gonna cry. Then she raised her head quietly, and spoke in shaky voice.
Kosuzu: If you see danger, please run away. Please be careful not to get hurt.
At the entrance of the ageya.
Sano: You're here. Didn't I tell you to stay inside? Well, as you can see, I'm done here. Safe and sound.
Ronin: Damn! Kill me! I'd rather die here than living in disgrace.
Sano: Don't be ridiculous. You know the rules. Bloodshed in red-light district is prohibited. Besides, we need some answers from you. Come with us.
The head clerk of the ageya rushed outside.
Head clerk: Sir, it's most troublesome to cause a commotion in front of our house...
Sano: We won't. I'm taking him back right away. Just bear with us for a little while.
Sano: What I hate most is someone making use of women for his evil deed. I'll make you pay.
With lowered voice and suppressed anger, Sano warned the ronin. Then he asked Ryu to tell Hijikata that he caught the rat snooping around.
As Ryu told what happened, the geisha beside Hijikata started weeping. She must be the one trying to set him up. Hijikata stood up quietly and told her.
Hijikata: You won't get away so easily if you keep doing this. There are many men in this world. He's not the only one who can bail you out of here. Don't get tangled with man like this anymore.
When Ryu's leaving with Hijikata...
Kosuzu: Ibuki-han!
Kosuzu stood in the hallway. Her dark, round rabbit-like eyes were moistened with sadness. Somehow Ryu felt that he couldn't face her, so he walked faster toward the door.
Kosuzu: Please send me an aijou again. I'll always be waiting.
Harada Route Chapter 4.
Notes
1. Hijikata's showing off popularity in Shimabara... was historical fact. Among the things Hijikata-san sent back to his home in Hino, there was a whole box of love letters he received from many geishas in Shimabara. XD
2. A brief description of Hanamachi (Japanese courtesan and geisha district) in Edo Era.
The triangle three businesses in Hanamachi are called Sangyou (三業) :
1) Ryoutei (料亭) - Luxurious traditional Japanese restaurant which provides refined furnished room, gourmet, and entertainment by geisha. We barely see this in Hakuoki though. Too high-class.
2) Okiya (置屋) - Geisha house (literally "boarding house") is the place where a maiko or geisha lives during her career life. The proprietress of the house, aka Okaasan ("mother"), pays for all the expenses and tuition fee for the maiko or geisha, and manages her business.
3) Machiai Chaya (待合茶屋) - "tea house for meeting" is a place to enjoy cuisine while entertained by geisha or courtesans, with the latter being the main purpose. (Often shortened as "machiai" or "ochaya".)
Its major differences from ryoutei are: 1) Ochaya don't serve cuisine directly, instead, they order from caterer or ryoutei. 2) There are beds in private rooms for courtesans to do their job.
In short, ochaya provides an affordable place, ryoutei provides food, and okiya provides entertainment.
Ageya (揚屋) serves the same purpose as ochaya, except that ageya can make its own cuisine.
Going to ageya is a luxury. Lower class courtesans aren't even allowed to step inside. It's the only place to meet high class courtesans like tayuu and oiran. When a tayuu enters ageya, the road often gets blocked by curious onlookers.
Sumiya, the restaurant where Roshigumi/Shinsengumi goes to when holding a banquet, is also a famous ageya.
Shimabara, Gion, and Yoshiwara (in Edo) are the Hanamachi mentioned in Hakuoki.
Personal comments
1. Hijikata-san! "I can't deny the fact that many women fall for me." ROTFL!
2. I'm surprised that Ryu is more mature in this route, regarding the samurai stuff. Look at what he said during patrol, and the unsaid argument with Kosuzu. Kosuzu's "violence is no good, you should talk with ronin" is the exact same argument Ryu had with Saitou throughout Saitou's chapter 4! XD
3. I think I'm falling for Sano here. He's so wise, fun, and caring for the love doves (Ryu & Kosuzu, and Sasaki & Aguri). Ah and the love doves. Sasaki tries to act like nothing happened. Ryu just stutters and blushes everytime Sano mentions Kosuzu. They're so sweet.