Ep 1. Sakura

In season 1 episode 1 of Peace Maker Kurogane, titled "Sakura," we are introduced to the main character, Tetsunosuke Ichimura, a young and eager samurai who dreams of becoming a member of the Shinsengumi, a special task force of samurais who protect the city. Tetsu's older brother was a member of the Shinsengumi and was killed in action, and Tetsu is determined to join to avenge his brother's death.

The episode opens with Tetsu training with a wooden sword and expressing his desire to join the Shinsengumi to his father. However, his father does not approve of his son's desire to become a samurai and wants him to live a peaceful life instead. Tetsu's sister, Suzu, also begs him not to join the Shinsengumi, saying that their family has suffered enough and they don't want to lose him too.

Despite their objections, Tetsu travels to Kyoto and presents himself to the Shinsengumi as a potential recruit. However, he is rejected due to his young age and lack of experience. The leader of the Shinsengumi, Kondou Isami, tells Tetsu that if he wants to prove himself and join the group, he must first become a page and serve the current members.

Tetsu reluctantly agrees to become a page, and he quickly learns that the life of a servant is not an easy one. He is tasked with cleaning and cooking for the members of the Shinsengumi and is often bullied by the other pages. However, Tetsu remains determined to prove himself and become a samurai.

One day, while Tetsu is out running an errand for the Shinsengumi, he comes across a group of swordsmen attacking a young girl named Sakura. Tetsu intervenes and fights off the attackers, saving Sakura's life. Sakura reveals that she is a member of a rebel group that is fighting against the Shinsengumi, and she asks Tetsu for his help in overthrowing them.

Tetsu is conflicted, as he is now serving the Shinsengumi and has pledged his loyalty to them. However, he also sympathizes with Sakura and wants to help her cause. Eventually, Tetsu decides to help Sakura and the rebels, going against the orders of the Shinsengumi.

The episode ends with Tetsu arriving at the rebels' hideout and being greeted by Sakura. Tetsu has made a decision that will change the course of his life, and the fate of the Shinsengumi hangs in the balance.

Overall, "Sakura" sets up the premise of the series and introduces us to the main characters. The episode is filled with action and drama, and it leaves viewers wondering what will happen next. The animation is visually stunning, and the voice acting is top-notch. For fans of historical fiction and samurai stories, this is a must-watch.