When Aoto was deliberating with Harada, Fujimura, and others about testing their skills at the Thousand Affairs House—
Edo, Nishiki Bridge, North Guard Station, just outside the gate—
In a particularly dim alley opposite the North Guard Station, obscured by a rooftop, a young samurai nervously observed the distant North Guard Station.
He repeatedly raised his hand to wipe his forehead, but no matter how much he wiped, cold sweat continued to seep out.
He swallowed and took a step toward the alley bathed in bright sunlight, but as soon as his foot left, he instantly withdrew, stepping forward and retreating repeatedly...
After several such hesitations, he clenched his teeth.
"There's no point in hesitating... I must... quickly find a way to stop that madman Shinno...!"
