Hakuoki ~Demon of the Fleeting Blossom~

Great conclusion to all that happened in this anime, and it is nice to see will get more not only in the second season, but also the movies for Hakuoki, as well as just checking out the original VN series.

Really good episode in terms of action scenes, directing, as well the revelations which have been clearing a lot of the mysteries in this story overall, though it does pose a lot more questions than expected.

As the cast still reel from the effects of the revelation of Chizuru's real background, the Shinsengumi face several betrayals, a key character's illness getting revealed, and the group gets cornered with seemingly no way out.

More revelations are sprung upon the audience in this episode in a manner that is rather tasteful, but at the same time, it raises the stakes even further as the Shinsengumi and Chizuru face more wins, losses and secrets.

Past characters connected with the present in this episode as it heads towards the meat of the plot, and it's exciting to see Chizuru start to make big decisions along with the Shinsengumi.

More of the plot and Chizuru's father's research, as well as the stakeholders around it get revealed in this episode as various factions form around her: either to kidnap her or to protect her, and it made the situation more thrilling to watch.

The medicine Chizuru's father invented leaves dire consequences not only to Sannan, but also to her and the Shinsengumi as a whole. It also brings out more sinister connections to what her father's research acually covered, and definitely raises the stakes in the story a lot.

The Shinsengumi tries to make a new alliance only to be met by betrayal, and the development regarding Chizuru's search of her father, as well as Sannan's research, gave the audience very unexpected surprises instead.

Another action packed episode, and the Shinsengumi faces a new challenge as the Choshu introduces new weapons into the fray, with the complicated politics now rearing up its ugly head against the group.

Rather amazing action scenes in this episode as the Shinsengumi face the men from Choshu, and it just raises the stakes not only on the Shinsengumi's goals but also on Chizuru's goal as well.

A slower episode than the first, it shows how much Chizuru is trying her best to fit in the Shinsengumi despite being forcibly conscripted into its service as she continues the search for her father.

Once again, Chikage visits Chizuru to deliver news that deeply troubles her, but with the support of her friends, she finds the strength to move forward and overcome it. Meanwhile, a mysterious character appears during the battle who could be directly connected to Chizuru's past. The story becomes even more intriguing in this chapter with the revelation of a new enemy. The atmosphere is phenomenal, and the animation stands out for its stunning visual quality and the incredible detail in every scene.

Great introductory episode for the Shinsengumi and the horrors their group face as protectors of society.

Undeniably one of the better Sudio Deen anime from the 2010s. Solid comp, though the story does have some plot holes that will be eventually filled by next seasons.

This chapter revolves around a plot to frame the Shinsengumi for crimes they did not commit. Former allies turn into traitors, seeking to destroy the organization by exposing the secrets behind its investigations. It is one of the best chapters so far, featuring fascinating plot twists and forcing the characters to make momentous decisions that could permanently alter their destinies.

Tension is building within the group as some of the infected warriors begin attacking Chizuru, including Sannan, who has noticed that there is something special about her. An important secret about Chizuru's past is finally revealed. Chikage attacks again, but this time our protagonists are prepared. It is a chapter filled with revelations and excellent battles that keep you glued to the screen from beginning to end.

Chikage and his allies are preparing a new surprise attack to capture Chizuru, who hasn't been entirely honest with her companions, while the true purpose of the medicine created by Kodo is finally revealed. It is a chapter filled with intrigue and secrets involving the highest levels of government. I love the story's pacing and the unexpected revelations that come to light as the plot unfolds.

I would say a perfect balance anime. Blending intense action with solid character drama gave the story a super well rounded finish. Fantastic wrap up episode.

Intense scene. Can't wait to see how it will be wrapped in the next episode.

A romance scene was definitely not on my radar for this episode. But it was such a fun and unexpected twist.