Ep 9. Dragon

In Peace Maker Kurogane season 1 episode 9, titled "Dragon," the story picks up with the Shinsengumi getting ready to depart for their next mission. However, before they can leave, they are attacked by a group of Ronin who are seeking revenge against them for their past actions. The Ronin are led by a powerful swordsman named Ikumatsu, who is known as the "Dragon" due to his impressive skills with a blade.

As the battle ensues, the Shinsengumi quickly realizes that they are no match for Ikumatsu and his men. However, just when all hope seems lost, a new ally appears to help turn the tide of the battle in their favor. This new ally is Hajime Saito, a former member of the Shinsengumi who left the group after a disagreement with its commander, Kondou.

With Saito's help, the Shinsengumi is able to defeat Ikumatsu and his Ronin, but the victory comes at a cost. Several members of the Shinsengumi are injured during the battle, including Hijikata, the second-in-command of the group. While he is being tended to, Hijikata reflects on the sacrifices that he and his fellow members have made in order to protect the people of Kyoto, and wonders if it is all worth it.

Meanwhile, Kenshin, the main protagonist of the series, continues to struggle with his own inner demons. He is haunted by memories of his past, particularly the time when he was known as the "Battousai the Manslayer." As he watches the aftermath of the battle, he realizes that he can never truly escape his past, no matter how much he tries to atone for his past sins.

The episode ends with the Shinsengumi preparing to depart for their next mission, but it is clear that the events of the battle with Ikumatsu have left a lasting impact on them. As they ride off into the night, they are left to ponder the true cost of their duty as peacekeepers in a time of chaos and violence.

Overall, "Dragon" is a powerful episode that explores the themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the high cost of duty. Through its intense action scenes and well-developed characters, it offers a compelling look at a pivotal moment in the story of the Shinsengumi and their struggles to uphold justice in a world torn apart by war and conflict.