At the start of the volume, we see Kiroranke talking about Uiruku’s first kill, which corresponds to us seeing Cikapasi getting his first kill. As that also reminded Asirpa of the Hochiri that she was given until her first kill. Curious if this serves as an important clue regarding the gold.
Though the focus goes back to Hijikata, through Inudou’s information it ties to a tattooed prisoner with the name Shinzo Doi. Shinzo is an old man, much like we see of this group. Unlike the others, it’s clear he suffers from something similar to dementia, and it is through that we see what horrors he remembers. Though Hijikata is the only person who was around during that time. Shinzo is just another casualty in Hijikata’s life but fought in his name of justice. He was a strong assassin, but someone who just wanted a peaceful life. The reason Hijikata mentions that Shinzo shouldn’t join his group is because he lacks the purpose the rest of them have.
We get a small sideshow of Sugimoto’s group joining the Yamada circus to draw Asirpa’s attention. Of course she was nowhere near the area, sadly. Still, it really showed Koito’s athleticism, which was illustrated earlier in the series. Though it is interesting that the Yamada Circus was also carrying out clandestine intelligence gathering and reporting to Japanese secret services. Though the information Yamada gives about Kiroranke is most interesting. In Russian territory, the largest prison is called Alexandrovskaya. Those who opposed Imperial Russia were sent there. Good information that also provides some clues on Kiroranke.
As the shift goes back to Kiroranke’s group, one of their issues is crossing the Russian border. There is something suspicious going on with Kiroranke, even more so if they need to sneak in. Though it is rather interesting that Tsurumi can still make his impact felt even while he is still in Hokkaido. Kiroranke was part of a group that killed Emperor Alexander II called the “People’s Will.” When you add up the information that Yamada gave, then it is no doubt Kiroranke seeks to reunite with his former partners. Could this be enough to allow Sugimoto to catch up even if they are falling dangerously behind from catching up to Asirpa.