The bright lights of the lanterns, the strong smell of alcohol, the hum of the guests and their dancing all night long. Shimabara, which was almost a second home for ordinary members of the Shinsengumi, seemed like an unusual place for you. Maiko and yujo, dressed in many bright layers of clothing, pour sake for samurai who were tired after a day at work. For a while, you had fun with everyone, watching the baka trio perform parodies, not leaving even the eternally sullen Hijikata-san indifferent. You danced a little, poured alcohol on your friends, but soon decided to leave the room to get some fresh air.

After a while, the shoji moved aside and you expected to see another maiko in a hurry for a new portion of alcohol, but it was Heisuke. Although you could have sworn that half an hour ago he was completely drunk, now he looked quite sober. Was he pretending then?

Ah, I was wondering where you'd gone so suddenly.. We've really tired you out, haven't we? He smiled, looking relaxed, his hands resting on the wooden railing.