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Shinpachi Nagakura (永倉新八 Nagakura Shinpachi) is one of the main protagonists in Hakuōki. In Kyoto Winds and Edo Blossoms, he is also one of Chizuru's potential love interests. Nagakura is the Captain of the Second Division in the Shinsengumi.
Nagakura is based on the historical Nagakura Shinpachi.
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Personality
This article contains major SPOILERS. Be careful if you do not know the full story yet.
Nagakura generally has an open mind and an amiable attitude unless the situation calls for suspicion or hostility. He is mistrustful of strangers, but his friendship endures once it is developed, and he views his superiors more as family than as commanding officers. However, his own ideals are more important to him than any one person or group. If he is forced to fight for a cause in which he does not believe, he will make his displeasure known to the point of striking out on his own, even if that means severing ties with former friends. His hatred of taking orders he disagrees with extends to even the most minor issues, such as doing chores.
Oblivious to contextual subtleties, Nagakura requires an overt declaration of facts and sometimes tangible proof before he can understand or believe certain situations, such as the fact that Chizuru is female. However, Chizuru herself observes that he is capable of sizing up situations at a glance. He also has a good grasp of current events and is able to articulate the nuance of complex political situations, which surprises Chizuru since he comes across as carefree. But despite his generally upbeat attitude, Nagakura is among the most accepting of the less savory aspects of his job, including killing Chizuru (if necessary) and assisting in the torture of a Chōshū agent. He is also not blindly optimistic, as he is still susceptible to doubt and depression. However, when his confidence falters, he tries to maintain a bold and cheerful exterior to bolster his comrades' spirits. Even if he opposes a situation, he may outwardly advocate for acceptance and moving on: "Why bitch and moan about it now? It's a done deal."
Nagakura is obstinate and usually tackles problems head-on, but is not so reckless that he intentionally endangers his allies. In fact, he tends to value their safety more highly than his own, as he repeatedly encourages Chizuru to prioritize administering first aid to the other men after the Ikeda Incident, despite also being wounded. On his own route, this habit is taken to extremes, as Nagakura literally uses himself as a shield for his men.
When drunk—which appears to be common, since he does not know his own limits—he becomes more emotional and prone to violent mood swings, but appears no more or less hotheaded than he is when sober. Unlike Heisuke, he goes to Shimabara for the female company as well as the sake, and has a serious weakness for women in general. However, he does not have a good memory for their faces, as his focus is usually elsewhere.
In Hakuōki: Shinsengumi Kitan
See also: Nagakura Shinpachi/Route
Nagakura's mouth was always in motion, and plenty that came out of it was none too nice, but underneath all that was a good man.
The story in the original game is largely the same as in the remade version Shinkai Fuukaden which consists of Kyoto Winds and Edo Blossoms, excluding any appearances of Kazue Souma, Hachirou Iba and Ryouma Sakamoto. However, Nagakura Shinpachi does not have his own route in the original game, so he remains a side character.
In Hakuōki: Kyoto Winds
See also: Nagakura Shinpachi/Route
Chapter 1
The trio's first appearance in front of Chizuru
Nagakura is first encountered during Chizuru's introduction to the rest of the Shinsengumi officers. Despite his usual friendly banter with Harada and Heisuke, he is among the more vocal supporters for Chizuru's execution.
If the player chooses to try and explain the situation, Nagakura appears again, stating that Chizuru is brave to call for her captors. He is the most shocked and flustered by the revelation of her true gender, insisting that "girls aren't supposed to wear hakama".
Following the revelation that Chizuru is a girl, Nagakura initially demands proof. However, when Harada volunteers to strip her down to settle the question, Kondou intervenes. Following this, Nagakura admits that if she really is female, killing her feels wrong. After it is agreed she will stay with the Shinsengumi, he comments that they will have to be nicer now that they know she is a girl.
A week later, if Chizuru explores the compound, she finds Nagakura and Harada sneaking towards the entrance and asks to come with them. Nagakura is completely against the idea despite Harada's indifference. When she asks about their destination, Harada answers that they are on their way to Shimabara. After learning that Harada is only going for the alcohol, Chizuru inquires about Nagakura's intentions, but he does not give her a conclusive answer. Whether she agrees to dress like a girl or not, Nagakura justifies their desire to see her in feminine attire by insisting that they "dedicate every day or their lives to keep Kyoto safe", but Chizuru is not convinced.
Once Inoue arrives and asks where Nagakura, Harada, and Heisuke are going, Nagakura quickly warms to Heisuke's excuse that they are going out training. However, when Heisuke and Harada both leave to show Chizuru around the headquarters, Nagakura is left behind to train with Inoue on his own, which makes him furious.
Later that evening, during dinner Nagakura steals Heisuke's food, which appears to be a regular occurrence. After Inoue informs the group that Sannan has been injured, Okita hints that Sannan may have to take something in order to wield a sword again. Nagakura reprimands him, saying "it's gonna look bad if officers start joining the Rasetsu". Once Chizuru asks what he means, Heisuke attempts to explain and gets punched by Harada, which Nagakura disagrees with. He apologizes to Heisuke for slipping first and then tells Chizuru that whatever she heard is never to be repeated and that they cannot tell her any more. He also reassures her by claiming she has nothing to worry about.
Four or five months after Chizuru started living with the Shinsengumi, she finally hears about her father being spotted in the city. She can choose to accompany Nagakura, Harada and Heisuke on their patrol, and while walking around she notices people's attitude towards the Shinsengumi. Nagakura explains that people from Kyoto do not like outsiders and often insult them. Soon they hear a fight and intervene, attempting to catch rōnin who claim to be imperial warriors. After the fight is over, they apprehend Kazue Souma, and Nagakura takes a look at a suspicious note that fell out of his pocket and was picked up by Harada. He states that they are going to take both Souma and the drawing to the headquarters.
Chapter 2
Despite initially permitting to go, Hijikata suddenly forbids Chizuru to join any captains on patrols in the city due to Chōshū's suspicious activity. She begs him for a chance to keep looking for her father, and he eventually gives in. If she decides to stay in the compound anyway, she encounters Nagakura, who is carrying a candle and a long needle. He explains that one of the Chōshū agents the Shinsengumi captured earlier that day is not talking, so Hijikata sent Nagakura to fetch some "tools" to assist in the interrogation. Chizuru does not understand the intention and Nagakura decides not to scare her, dismissing the topic with a smile.
Kondou, Nagakura, Souji and Heisuke charge at Ikedaya
As Hijikata learns about the plan to set Kyoto on fire, he shares it with other captains, and Nagakura points out that the Chōshū samurai are "crazier than he thought", but he is eager to fight. Kondou invites Chizuru to go with them, and she joins the group with Nagakura.
When they arrive at the spot, they realize that their group guessed it correctly, and the meeting is taking place at Ikedaya. Nagakura wonders how Chōshū could have thought of having a meeting right next to a government building, especially since earlier that day one of their agents, Furutaka, got arrested by the Shinsengumi. After Okita makes a shady comment about Takeda, Nagakura backs it up more directly by saying that they want someone reliable for this attack, hence why Takeda should stay at the entrance.
Chizuru treats Nagakura's wound
The battle begins, and the Shinsengumi are outnumbered. Chizuru does not know how to help and decides to run inside to carry the wounded out of the inn. She looks around to see who needs help and gets attacked by a rōnin, but Nagakura jumps in front of her just in time to save her. He asks her to check upstairs, but she notices blood on his left hand and worries about the severity of the wound. Despite his indifference towards his own injury, Chizuru tries to take care of him and notices how much of a courageous warrior he is. Nagakura urges her to find Souji and Heisuke, so she does, and the battle soon finishes. He thanks her for helping out and eventually gives up and allows her to check his wound. She carefully bandages it, and he screams in pain but eventually expresses his gratitude to her, admitting that he was wrong to mistrust her in the beginning.
At the end of the summer, Chizuru goes on patrol with Harada and stumbles upon Nagakura's group. He asks whether she has heard anything about her father and remains optimistic, even though the answer is negative. Noticing uneasiness in the city, Chizuru enquires about it, and Nagakura explains that Chōshū have started appearing again, which is why the Shinsengumi are on high alert. He also expects to receive more orders from above if the situation worsens. Chizuru agrees to join them if anything serious happens, and a few days later they receive orders from Aizu to assist with apprehending Chōshū. Nagakura asks if Chizuru still wants to join and Kondou likes the idea.
As the Shinsengumi arrive at the Fushimi magistrate's office, they report to be present by request from Lord Katamori Matsudaira, the Lieutenant-General of the Aizu Domain. However, the samurai at the entrance to the Judiciary Commissioner's office received no word of the Shinsengumi's participance, so they turn them down in a rude manner. Kondou orders to find Aizu's military camp, and a few hours later they reach the Kujo Beach. Weirdly enough, nobody has heard about Shinsengumi joining them either, so one of the Aizu soldiers attempts to refuse, but Nagakura loses his cool and yells at him, which leads to Kondou talking to his superior and making sure the squad is allowed to stay at the beach.
Learning that the Shinsengumi are treated as reserve, Nagakura gets mad about the purpose of the urgent order, but nothing can be done, so they wait until morning. At dawn, Chizuru is woken up by cannon fire, and everyone runs to Hamaguri Gate. Upon arrival, they see dead bodies and scores of bullets on the gate, so Hijikata dispatches a few people to investigate. Yamazaki returns with the report of the raid leaders headed for Mount Ten'nou, and Harada informs the commander of some Chōshū samurai still fighting at the Kuge Gate. Hijikata sends Harada to the Kuge Gate, orders Saitou and Yamazaki to hold Hamaguri Gate, asks Kondou to request permission for a punitive expedition from Aizu, and takes Nagakura and others to Mount Ten'nou. Chizuru follows Nagakura and others, but a mysterious figure appears on their path — Chikage Kazama. Everyone stops except for one man who keeps running and gets instantly slain by the unknown swordsman. The sight of his comrade killed out of the blue enrages Nagakura, and he unsheathes his sword threatening to kill Kazama. Hijikata orders him to pursue Chōshū instead and decides to fight Kazama by himself, so Nagakura grabs Chizuru and they all run. Unfortunately, by the time they arrive, all the Chōshū samurai have already committed seppuku (honorable suicide). Nagakura is unhappy with the outcome, as he considers dying in battle to be better than committing suicide, but, if Chizuru disputes the statement and claims that life has more to it than just fighting, he smiles and agrees.
By January 1865, a year has passed since Chizuru joined the Shinsengumi and a few months since the Hamaguri Rebellion. Chizuru is on cooking duty when she meets Nagakura, who offers to wake up others to help her. After breakfast, he comes to her room without knocking, and she scolds him for doing so because next time she might be undressed, which had never crossed his mind before she said it out loud. Changing the topic, he asks her to close her eyes and then brings her a large brazier with a few red coals glowing inside. He explains this decision by pointing out the cold weather and Chizuru's necessity to go out, which is why he wants to give her a way to warm up. They start a conversation, and Nagakura complains about how freezing Kyoto is in winter and how hot in summer, admitting that he misses Edo. Chizuru asks whether he was born there, and he proudly gives her an affirmative answer, claiming that his first bath was in the Sumida River. He also points out the dialect of people in Kyoto, but then remembers that Itou speaks the same way despite being from Edo. Chizuru notices his dislike towards Itou, and Nagakura explains that, even though Itou is smart and important for the Shinsengumi, ever since he showed up, Sannan has gotten depressed, and Kondou stopped seeing the bigger picture. Chizuru tries to change the topic and asks whether Nagakura likes women in Kyoto, which surprises and embarrasses him, so he tries to cover the truth by claiming to only go to Shimabara to gather information, but then quickly admits that Chizuru is very sharp.
They continue talking about their memories of Edo and discovering how much they have in common, and the time passes quickly. Chizuru offers to bring some mochi, but when she comes back from the kitchen she sees Nagakura asleep. Shimada knocks on her door and asks if she has seen the captain, who was on patrol last night, and she realizes that he must have been exhausted but still chose to bring her a brazier and spend time with her. She covers him with a blanket and lets him sleep more. As he wakes up, embarrassed and worried that he must have snored, Chizuru thanks him for his care, which makes him blush.
Chapter 3
The Shinsengumi decide to move to a bigger HQ, and Itou suggests the Nishi Hongwanji temple. During the discussion, Itou and his younger brother, Saburou, strike a nerve by insulting Sannan, so Nagakura promises to punch Heisuke, who brought them to the Shinsengumi in the first place. After Sannan leaves the room disheartened, Harada and Nagakura point out that other members avoid him because he takes everything they say the wrong way.
Nagakura thanks Chizuru for cheering him up
Later that day, Chizuru stays in her room but gets woken up by commotion outside, so she decides to see what is happening. She learns that Sannan has taken Ochimizu, and Hijikata blames other captains, including Nagakura, for not keeping an eye on him. Chizuru makes her presence known, and Hijikata instantly becomes hostile, since she has heard something she should not have. Kondou decides to enlighten her about her father's work, but Hijikata still threatens to kill her if she does something wrong from the moment on. Nagakura's eyes show her the same hostility as the night she first arrived, as well as doubt and suspicion. Chizuru returns to her room but cannot sleep and decides to check the common room again, where she finds Nagakura keeping watch. The captain opens up to her telling the story of another commander who took the medicine before and died because of it. She expresses how glad she is that Sannan is at least still alive, which surprises Nagakura but brightens his mood, as he has the same feelings. He thanks her for bringing him to realize the most important thing and supporting him.
When Itou arrives in the morning and notices the uneasiness, Nagakura tries to distract him from the truth and exclaims, "Well, isn't it obvious that it's because we have to see your face in the morning?" Unfortunately, Itou sees through the attempt and keeps questioning other people, and eventually Saitou takes care of the situation.
Nagakura shows off his muscles
Next time Chizuru interacts with Nagakura is during the medical check-up conducted by Dr. Matsumoto. Shinpachi is eager to show the doctor that his body is a pinnacle of health while also boasting about his incredibly muscular build. Heisuke jokes about the necessity to check Shinpachi's head instead of his body. Dr. Matsumoto quickly dismisses Nagakura due to him being "healthy as a horse", but Shinpachi is upset and demands another look. Harada complains that Shinpachi is holding the line, and Saitou reprimands him for treating a check-up as a way to show off instead of a way to find health problems. Chizuru decides not to intrude and asks Yamazaki to give a message to Dr. Mastumoto, who later explains that he arrived to speak to her. The doctor sheds more light on Rasetsu and Ochimizu, so Chizuru can finally connect the dots remembering what she has heard before.
Due to the results of Dr. Matsumoto's medical examination, the Shinsengumi have to do a massive cleaning. Nagakura is among those who are especially annoyed at this, but Harada makes him and others work.
By April 1866, the Bakufu have begun gathering forces with the intent to start the Second Chōshū Expedition. Kondou and Itou have been summoned to assist, so Hijikata is left in charge. Shinpachi is displeased with his actions because the vice-commander has become incredibly strict towards the captains. Heisuke agrees, backing Shinpachi's argument, while Sano tries to understand Hijikata's motives. To counter that, Shinpachi points out how all the strictness falls on the Shinsengumi's members, while Itou's men are more free in their actions. Eventually, he decides to go out with his friends despite Hijikata's curfew, claiming "they are not priests to sit around in the temple all day". Sano invites Chizuru to join them and puts her in charge of Shinpachi, who eventually gets incredibly drunk and promises his men to shut up the commander if their actions are reprimanded. Seeing as Heisuke is not able to stop Shinpachi, Chizuru tells him they should not continue and had better return to the HQ not to break the curfew. She advises to think of Hijikata as a friend rather than a rule enforcer, and Shinpachi agrees that the vice-commander probably would not want to make him commit suicide for disobeying the order and therefore breaking the Code of Conduct. Shinpachi thanks Chizuru for stopping him and admits that getting stuck on something and losing sight of other stuff is part of his personality, which often gets him in trouble.
As they arrive back at the HQ past the curfew, Heisuke worries what is going to happen, but Shinpachi is ready to take the blame and accept any punishment. They proceed to the main hall, where furious Hijikata is already waiting for an explanation. As promised, Shinpachi takes full responsibility, however, Hijikata insists on everyone being at fault. Heisuke tries to defend his friend, but everyone gets sent to their rooms except for Shinpachi. Sano, Heisuke and Chizuru end up eavesdropping on the conversation and hear Shinpachi claim he is not afraid to die. To everyone's surprise, Hijikata calmly asks whether Shinpachi has an issue with his leadership, and the captain answers affirmatively, expressing his annoyance with strict rules and taking pride in his swordsmanship. Shinpachi's main issue is with the fact that Hijikata goes easy on guys who "have never lifted a sword outside a dojo" but scolds the "veterans". Unexpectedly, the vice-commander apologizes and explains that he gets favoritism complaints, so he does not wish to make people believe the Shinsengumi captains have only got to where they are due to nepotism. Nagakura accepts his apology with a friendly smile, admitting his readiness to leave and not expecting Hijikata to instead start acting like he did back in Edo. He also agrees that he should have talked to Hijikata instead of acting like a spoiled kid, and the two make up.
Patrolling the city with Saitou, Chizuru encounters Senhime, whom she tries to protect from imperial nationalists, and the two quickly become friends. The new acquaintance brings Chizuru to worry about her own female beauty, as she is forced to live among men and dress as one. Later, going on patrol with Shinpachi, she is consumed by her thoughts while he is venting about the current situation, especially considering Itou and Miki's presence. According to Shinpachi, Itou has taken control over everything with Kondou's blessing, so the Shinsengumi captains no longer get the respect they deserve. Chizuru does not understand politics enough to keep the conversation going, but she agrees with Shinpachi, which is enough to brighten his mood. He then wonders if Chizuru also has an issue with Itou and asks her to keep the conversation between them.
Chapter 4
By the spring of 1867, Sannan has created a whole unit of Rasetsu warriors, and one day a soldier from this unit rushes into Chizuru's room in the middle of the night, seeking blood. Chizuru first wants to scream for help but then realizes that it might put the Shinsengumi's secret in jeopardy, and while she hesitates the Rasetsu attacks her, cutting her arm with his sword. Terrified, she cries for help, and Hijikata comes just in time to save her. Shortly afterwards, Shinpachi, accompanied by Sano and Heisuke, also runs in and asks if Chizuru is okay. The captains all attack together and kill the monster almost instantly, but, unfortunately for them, Chizuru's screams did attract unwanted attention, as Itou walks into the room concerned. Sannan follows shortly after, apologizing for his lack of discipline, and Itou freezes on the spot, having considered Sannan to be dead for a few years. Hijikata realizes the necessity to explain everything and sends Chizuru to sleep in his room.
Next morning, she learns of Itou's plan to leave, along with his brother Miki and a few Shinsengumi members, including Saitou and Heisuke. They intend to separate from the Shinsengumi and create a new group called Guardians of the Imperial Tomb. Chizuru is worried about other warriors, especially those whose friends are leaving. Shinpachi and Sano walk out of the common room, apologizing to Chizuru for what happened the night before and asking if she is feeling better. When the conversation goes to the topic of people leaving, Shinpachi expresses his frustration about not knowing of Heisuke's intentions, but Sano wishes to believe their friend realizes what he is doing. Shinpachi suddenly asks how Chizuru feels about Kondou, pointing out that the commander has lately become arrogant, but also admitting that he is happy to see Itou finally gone. Both captains expect to fight Itou's men soon, even though they both find it hard to treat former comrades as hostile rōnin.
A month later, Chizuru stumbles upon Shinpachi and Sano, who express concern over Okita's well-being. They then remember about Heisuke and Saitou and wonder about their lives, too. Shinpachi says that he will gladly talk to Kondou if those two ever decide to come back. Sano points out Shinpachi's task to cover for Souji, which is a lot of work, and Shinpachi confirms it but admits not willing to see things messy while three captains are gone. Suddenly cheerful, Shinpachi promises to make Souji work double to repay him after he recovers, and runs off on patrol. Sano explains that Shinpachi is feeling sad because a couple of his best and oldest friends just left, so he is lying to himself to feel better.
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Shinpachi training in the middle of the night
At night, Chizuru accidentally walks in on Shinpachi training with his sword in the yard, realizing that it is his way to numb the pain. He notices her and pretends to be optimistic, lying about his wish to train to make sure he does not get out of shape. Chizuru starts asking if he is okay, and he opens up about his feelings by telling her how he loves swordfight and how he has been a fighter for many years. According to him, he used to go around trying to find a worthy opponent, which is how he met Kondou and the others. He confesses that he loved Kondou for never giving up on his comrades, even when his wife told him to, however, nowadays Kondou treats his men like pawns and uses Rasetsu to get the edge on their foes, which is not the Kondou Shinpachi remembers. Despite his own words, he wonders whether he should stop worrying and continue being ignorant and carefree, but Chizuru insists that such deep thinking is not out of character for him. She believes he will find the right answer about his path soon enough. He calls her tough and admits with a bittersweet smile that he did not expect to get life advice from a little girl who used to be afraid of her own shadow. Chizuru thanks him for always being cheerful, which helped her overcome all the obstacles, especially considering that he always treated her as if she belonged with the Shinsengumi. Shinpachi blushes hearing her gratitude and claims that it was an obvious thing to do for him, because she is like a younger sister to him. Chizuru jokes about taking care of her "usually reliable but sometimes difficult" older brother, and Shinpachi laughs.
Three months after Itou left the Shinsengumi, taking Heisuke, Saitou and others with him, an unexpected visitor comes to see Chizuru, and she rushes to the common room. There she sees Senhime and Kimigiku, who have come to take her away with them. As Sen is forced to explain her motives further, she reveals herself to be a demon, as well as Kazama and others, but, most importantly, she claims that Chizuru is one, too, a pureblooded demon whom Kazama wants as his bride in order to create strong offspring. Sen is worried that the Shisengumi will not be able to protect Chizuru if Kazama comes for her seriously, but Shinpachi and Sano instantly disagree. Sen insists on the demons' immense power and reminds Hijikata that their duty is to protect Kyoto, not Chizuru. Despite the heavy backlash from all the captains, Kimigiku pushes for Sen's royal origin as a descendant of Suzuka Gozen, implying that she is a better fit to protect Chizuru, but Sen interrupts her. While everyone is busy arguing, Kondou suddenly decides to ask for Chizuru's opinion on the matter and then allows her to have a discussion with Sen in private. Sen apologizes for all the information she has put on Chizuru's shoulders and then asks whether her reluctance to leave is because of someone within the Shinsengumi. The question surprises Chizuru but she confesses. Sen smiles and decides not to pry further, agreeing to let her stay. When the final decision is announced, Shinpachi happily exclaims that he is ready to take care of her safety.
At night, the demons launch an attack at the Shinsengumi's headquarters. Shimada comes to Chizuru's room to inform her, and she agrees to stay inside for her own protection. As soon as he leaves, she hears him scream, so she rushes out and runs to the other side of the compounds. However, Kazama finds her in the yard and tells her that living in the den of fake demons does not suit a pureblooded one, which is why he plans on taking her away. Chizuru calls for help, in vain at first, but just as Kazama reaches out to her, Shinpachi jumps out of nowhere to stop him. A fight begins, and Shinpachi promises to protect Chizuru. He fights Kazama with his sword and rattles him verbally, then Sano and Sannan come to his aid. Suddenly, a gunshot interrupts the commotion, and Shiranui advises Kazama to leave since the Nishi Hongwanji monks know about the ruckus. Demons quickly disappear, Sano and Sannan chase after them, so Shinpachi and Chizuru are left alone in the yard. Shinpachi admits that Kazama is a strong opponent, and Chizuru thanks him for saving her. He once again promises to protect her, though she is worried about him getting injured in the process.
On the following day, Kondou brings the news about the Nishi Hogwanji temple no longer willing to host the Shinsengumi due to the last night's incident. The temple monks are Imperialists and allies of Chōshū, so they have never been particularly fond of the Shinsengumi. Chizuru blames herself but Kondou explains that they took the temple by force in the first place, so the outcome was obvious from the beginning. The silver lining, though, is that a new accommodation is provided by the monks, as they have purchased a new plot of land and built a new compound, which becomes the third headquarters of the Shinsengumi: the Fudodo Village.
By the summer of 1867, the Shinsengumi have moved to the new HQ, which is huge and sophisticated compared to the old one. While giving Chizuru a tour of the new house, Kondou mentions that Shinpachi and Sano ran away from the life of samurai because they hated it.
A couple of months later, Chizuru is out patrolling the streets with Sano when she stumbles across Shinpachi, cheerful as ever, not affected by the freezing cold weather. She mentions Heisuke and how much everything has changed for the past half a year, and Shinpachi points out that he never expected to be promoted to jikisan hatamoto (直参旗本), which actually does not fill him with joy because he never wanted to become a retainer for the shōgun. As Chizuru tries to understand the situation and the relationships between Satsuma, Chōshū, Bakufu and Imperialists, Shinpachi calmly explains it all to her, which prompts her to an unexpected comment, "I didn't realize you were so smart, Nagakura-san, you know a lot about politics". He takes offence and asks what she thought of him before, but she tries to avoid the question and continue to patrol the streets.
Soon after, the news arrives that Ryouma Sakamoto has been assassinated, and the blame is wrongfully pinned on Sano. Saitou rejoins the Shinsengumi, revealing Itou's plan to discredit the Bakufu by exposing the Rasetsu Corps, frame Sano and then kill Kondou. Hijikata gives a direct order to get rid of Itou. Shinpachi and Sano are assigned to take care of the Guardians of Imperial Tomb, so Shinpachi asks about Heisuke, and, surprisingly, Hijikata orders to kill him if he decides to fight. Chizuru screams in shock, but Kondou promises that they will do anything to spare Heisuke's life and convince him to come back. Chizuru strives to help and agrees to do anything possible.
Shinpachi realizes he cannot save Heisuke from becoming a Rasetsu or dying
Eventually, Chizuru is sent to Dr. Matsumoto to distract her from any involvement, and, when she returns, she sees Shinpachi in distraught, looking at Heisuke's body covered in blood. Yamazaki urges to call for Dr. Matsumoto but Sannan is convinced that it will be too late, so he decides to give Heisuke Ochimizu. Shinpachi unsheathes his sword and yells at Sannan, calling him a demon, but Sannan is calm and persistent. Realizing there is no time for anything but the medicine, Shinpachi screams and storms off, and Chizuru runs after him.
She finds him in the room alone, clenching his fists and on the verge of crying. Shinpachi admits that he cannot let Heisuke die so he did not stop Sannan, but the fate of becoming a Rasetsu is not something he would wish for his friend. He wonders whether he should have let Heisuke die as a hero instead, and Chizuru reassures him that she has the same feelings. He tries to compose himself and smile, thanking her for support.
By the end of 1867, a lot of Shinsengumi members have either died or been gravely injured, Heisuke was proclaimed dead and allowed to join the Rasetsu Corps. Shinpachi and Sano come to Chizuru's room to vent about their disapproval of it. Shinpachi is frustrated that now the Shinsengumi captains cannot even die in battle, because they will be brought back as monsters anyway, and it is no life for anyone. He also hates the idea of Kondou and Hijikata becoming Daimyōs, but Sano tries to calm him down. Shinpachi storms off annoyed and goes to Shimabara.
Chapter 5
Officially Nagakura's route starts from this chapter.
As the order to begin Imperial Restoration came, Satsuma and Chōshū troops have started occupying Kyoto, and allies of Tokugawa Bakufu are gradually removed from the Imperial palace and Kyoto in general. In response, the Bakufu military forces begin to march from Edo to Kyoto. As tensions rise from the approaching Bakufu armies, the Satsuma and Chōshū start preparing their own forces for a hostile confrontation. The Shinsengumi receive an order to come to the Fushimi Magistrate.
Kondou gets shot, and during the discussion about how to help him Sannan offers to use Ochimizu once again, but Shinpachi heavily protests against it. Eventually, the decision is to hold onto the idea and wait for the commander's natural recovery. Next morning, Shinpachi explains to Chizuru that the Satsuma-Chōshū Alliance wants power in the court as much as they expect the Emperor to grant them all of the Bakufu's assets and holdings, which basically means that they are trying to start a war.
After sending Kondou and Okita to Dr. Mastumoto, the Shinsengumi remain on standby at the Fushimi Magistrate's office through the year-end celebrations. One night, Chizuru finds Shinpachi in the inner yard and enquires about his worries, so Shinpachi shares his opinion on Ochimizu, which is something he, as a man, would never touch, either to get cool powers or to save himself. However, him despising Ochimizu also means that he likely cannot accept Heisuke who has become a Rasetsu. Chizuru understands his feelings and expresses her happiness with the fact that people like Sannan and Heisuke are alive due to the serum, even though she does not consider it right to take it. She reminds him that Heisuke is his friend, and Shinpachi thanks her with a smile.
Shinpachi and Chizuru pinky swear
Shinpachi grins
In January of 1868, as everyone is prepared for battle against the SatChō in Kyoto, Chizuru cooks meals for them and meets Shinpachi, who is cheerful despite all the difficulties, which she sees as a sign of emotional strength. She decides to ask him if he is okay with her living there, and Shinpachi honestly tells her that she would be better off somewhere like Osaka instead. Realizing that Chizuru has taken it as a hint to leave, he quickly grabs her wrist and tries to explain his reasoning, which is his concern for her safety.
We're the ones who kinda forced you to stay with us, right? It's not like you have to serve or anything, but if we were responsible for hurting you, then I don't think I could live with myself.
Look, I just don't want my 'lil sis to get hurt, is all. I don't wanna see you cry, or hurt yourself, or be in any kind of pain...
Shinpachi elaborates on his wish for Chizuru to go somewhere safer, but then realizes that he has said a lot about his own feelings without asking for hers, and she admits willing to stay with her friends despite considering herself a burden.
Leave it to me. There's nothing for you to be worried about. If you want to stay here, I'll protect you.
He suggests a pinky swear so that she can trust his promise to protect her and then asks her to stop crying. Chizuru smiles, and Shinpachi replies with a gigantic grin from ear to ear.
On January 3rd, 1868, a dispute arises between the Satsuma Domain and a group of Bakufu troops attempting to enter Kyoto, which eventually leads to a confrontation. Chizuru and others are in the middle of casual discussions when they hear a boom of a large explosion from outside the building. Shinpachi quickly understands it was gunfire, and Sano confirms that "it has finally started". The battle, that would later become known as the Battle of Toba-Fushimi, has begun. A few moments later, another loud noise is heard, but this time it shakes the whole building, and Shinpachi sees a cannon in a temple atop a mountain nearby. Chizuru suggests using a cannon back, but Shinpachi explains that they do not have enough men who can use it.
Hijikata arrives and reveals the plan of action, but points out a problem: in order to win they would have to thrust their forces into the heart of the enemy encampment, running straight into a line of gunfire. Shinpachi volunteers to do it to ensure victory for Hijikata's group. By nightfall, they return, and Chizuru is happy to see Shinpachi alive, but he is exhausted and frustrated about losing many of his men. Trying to cheer her up, Shinpachi claims that darkness will help in the next battle because the enemy cannot use guns or cannons, so the Shinsengumi are gonna strike again at night. Chizuru wonders if he has to go at all, and he feels offended as it would be against his warrior pride to stay behind, but then he realizes that she is simply worried.
Returning from the night attack, Shinpachi complains about losing his men once again and tells how he got cornered by the enemy, because their camp was well-lit, and the attack was expected.
On January 4th, the Bakufu's forces suffer more and more casualties due to all the modern weaponry used against them. Shinpachi tries to cheer up his troops but more and more men end up in the infirmary. One of the cannons hits the Shinsengumi's base of operations, and Sano exclaims that it cannot continue. Hijikata mentions Shinpachi's decision to go to the front lines, and everyone assumes him dead, but he returns and jokes about not being a ghost, informing Hijikata that it is impossible to get to the enemy line.
Suddenly, smoke fills the building, and Shinpachi asks Hijikata for an order to retreat. Everyone understands that it is inevitable, but it also means accepting defeat. Eventually, the order is given, and Chizuru tries to cheer up Shinpachi by reminding him of the possibility to defend Osaka Castle and win, which lifts his spirits.
Chizuru and Inoue guide injured men to the Yodo Castle, while Shinpachi and Sano are tasked with leading the diversion team. As Chizuru and Inoue arrive, they see closed gates and no soldiers around, so Inoue tries to shout but nobody responds. A man appears in the window and shoots at them, which makes Chizuru panic in confusion. Inoue quickly explains that they have no choice but to escape, since the Yodo Domain is no longer allied with the Bakufu. On the way back through the forest, they get attacked by the Yodo warriors. Enraged to see Inoue down, Chizuru jumps at them with her sword, but soon afterwards another figure appears from behind — Shinpachi. The traitors try to lie about their intentions and beg for forgiveness, but Shinpachi does not budge. Suddenly, Inoue gets up and asks to spare their lives, whispering that he does not wish Shinpachi to kill anyone in front of Chizuru. Shinpachi lets them go and asks whether his friends are okay, which seems to be the case despite Inoue's deep wounds.
Inoue pours Ochimizu into Shinpachi's mouth
Just as Shinpachi tries to carry Inoue back, they get shot by the treacherous soldiers who ran away a few moments ago. More and more gunshots follow, so Chizuru cannot approach. Inoue takes out a vial of Ochimizu and pours it into Shinpachi's mouth, apologizing and begging to protect Chizuru. When low-ranking soldiers surround them, Shinpachi jumps up with a furious scream and points his sword at the enemies. Before they are able to position their guns, he leaps from one to another and slashes each of them, including those who try to escape. Chizuru notices that he has lost sanity and turned into a merciless beast, but her screams cannot help him.
Amagiri appears out of nowhere and attacks Shinpachi for becoming a Rasetsu but gets slightly hurt and realizes that having a swordsman like Shinpachi gain Rasetsu powers might be a problem in the future. Chizuru exclaims that it was not his choice, and Amagiri sees what has happened, so he tries to knock Shinpachi out to return him to the normal state and then leaves, promising to kill Nagakura in case he decides to use the Rasetsu advantages in battle.
Shinpachi wakes up and jumps to his feet, ready to protect Chizuru, only to see that everyone has been defeated and Inoue has been shot dead. Chizuru realizes that Shinpachi has no recollection of drinking Ochimizu, so she decides to hide it from him for a while. They bury Inoue and head to Osaka Castle.
Shinpachi reassures Chizuru
Learning that Yoshinobu has fled, Shinpachi gets furious and locks himself in his room. When Chizuru finally talks to him, she offers him food, but he claims to have no appetite because his body is going through some changes. He also mentions Heisuke who can eat normal food but does not crave it as much anymore, which makes it clear for Chizuru that he has figured out what happened and remembered drinking Ochimizu. Chizuru starts crying and apologizing for not being able to stop Inoue, but Shinpachi speaks to her with warmth and kindness in his voice and reminds her about his promise to protect her, so he is accepting the situation.
Kazama's/Hijikata's/Okita's routes
Following Chizuru's separation from the rest of the Shinsengumi, Nagakura is not seen again. Historically, he lived through the events of the game, but his fate remains unknown to Chizuru. Amagiri announces his disappearance and assumes the worst.
In Hakuōki: Ginsei no Shou
At the end of the war, Shinpachi and Chizuru ended up living in Ezo, which was under the direct control of the Matsumae clan that Shinpachi used to belong to. A few years later, they got married and moved to Otaru, a freezing cold region of Hokkaido. One day, they receive a letter from the Matsumae clan, which states that a pardon has been granted to those who fought against the SatChō forces, and the Shinsengumi have been forgiven, as well. Shinpachi invites Chizuru to go to Hakodate. On the way there, he explains his reason to live so far away, which is to hide Chizuru from the new government. He also confesses to hoping that he might one day visit Hakodate, where Hijikata and others fought to the bitter end, if he decided to live in Hokkaido, however, if he chose to live in Matsumae, he would be too close to Hakodate and would have been torn about whether to visit the town or not, hence why he decided to live in Otaru instead.
While walking around Goryoukaku, Shinpachi and Chizuru approach a building that used to be where Hijikata and others fought and is now soon to be demolished. They explore the castle further and stumble upon a sakura tree, so they sit under it and pour some saké. Shinpachi apologizes to Hijikata for coming so late, and the blowing wind seems to respond with Hijikata's voice. Shinpachi keeps wondering out loud about what would have happened if he stayed and fought with the Shinsengumi until the end, but he does not consider his decision to leave to be wrong, even though he wishes he had spent more time with his deceased friends. He promises to go see them one day, but for now he has things to do.
In the musicals
Main article: Nagakura Shinpachi/HakuMyu
Nagakura is portrayed by Miyazaki Shuuto in HakuMyu Saito-hen through Toudou-hen; by Ino Hiroki in HakuMyu Reimeiroku and HakuMyu Shinsengumi Kitan; by Fukuyama Shoudai in HakuMyu LIVE 2 and Harada-hen; and by Kishimoto Yuuta in HakuMyu Hijikata-hen 2.
Quotes
- "A man should always be ready to face death. You should make your peace with yours." (Chapter 1, to Chizuru)
- "To hell with how appropriate it is! A man's gotta live! We're gonna party whenever we feel like it!" (Chaper 1, to Chizuru)
- "You guys oughta apologize to my stomach! He wanted to dig in, but I said 'No, we've gotta wait for 'em'." (Chapter 1)
- "Sano, you're overreacting. Heisuke, think before you open that damn mouth!" (Chapter 1, to Harada and Heisuke)
- "Being stuck living here with a bunch of guys; it can't be fun. But even though we don't say it, we're all really happy that there's a cute girl staying at our headquarters." (Shinsengumi Adventures 1, to Chizuru)
Trivia
- Despite the fact that Nagakura visits Shimabara for the women as well as the alcohol, Harada periodically teases him about his inexperience with ladies. This is most likely related either to his perpetual lack of money or simply his lack of etiquette, as Nagakura cannot be said to be innocent.
- Apparently, animals tend to like Nagakura for some reason, although he does not know why.