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Rurouni Kenshin: Seisou Hen OVA

Retrospect and Beyond Rurouni Kenshin: The Manga and the Anime

    Through the historical references of Japan, we find ourselves emersed in an emotional and provokingly inquistive collection by Nobuhiro Watsuki. Watsuki first introduced us to Rurouni Kenshin in its manga form in 1994. Rurouni Kenshin loosely described is about a wandering samurai in 1870's Japan. Two years later we would be graced with one of the most successful and very popular anime series' to date. In 1996, Rurouni Kenshin found itself on syndicated television as an anime series. In retrospect, the manga consists of 28 volumes and the anime series went a distance of 95 episodes. In 1997, a movie was made 'Rurouni Kenshin: Requiem of the Ishinshishi.' And in 1999, a four-part OVA was animated as well, Rurouni Kenshin: Tsuioku Hen. But despite all this another two-part OVA has been created, entitled, Rurouni Kenshin: Seisou Hen.

Press Release and the Official Word

    "The lives of Kenshin and Kaoru is something that is too spectacular and therefore impossible to happen in real life. In the last work, "Tsuioku Hen," I tested some of the important points in order to show such relationship in an anime, which seems a bit far from real life as well. And in that aspect, the "Seisou Hen" is a kind of a sequel to the "Tsuioku Hen." I believe that animation is the only way to express the 'pure spirit,' something that is nothing but a utopia actually."
    "Either way, I would like the people to watch it without any prejudice. It will be great for people who know nothing about the show. And, of course, it will be highly enjoyable for those who are acquainted with it. There are scenes that are very heavy, psychologically speaking, but they are not dark or melancholic. I strongly recommend this "Seisou Hen" to people who don't feel satisfied with superficial actings and plots. The "Seisou Hen" will draw the maximum of the deepest aspects of the original work, and it will be an another way to see an original work like "Rurouni Kenshin," so please give it a try."
    In the November issue of Newtype magazine, Furubashi Kazuhiro gave that statement. He is the director of the new OVA that would finalize the Rurouni Kenshin saga, as we know it. The announcement came in September 2001 that a new Rurouni Kenshin OVA would be made and eventually released in December. It would be called Rurouni Kenshin: Seisou Hen (Passing of Time Saga). As time wore on, many questions were put forth. Would we see the Jinchuu Arc that was never animated? If that were included would we see Enishi? If it were an original creation, where and how would this fit into the Kenshin series and manga? How long would it be? The list could go on, but eventually it was announced that Seisou Hen would be a two-part OVA. In Japan, the first part would be released on December 19, 2001, while the second part would make its debut by the end of February.

Awaiting the Release and the Rumours

    Between the time of its official announcement and the new OVA's release, many fans began to speculate as to what the new OVA would entail. The basis of the OVA's was initially described as a depiction of Kenshin's wandering years. This was the 10 years that Kenshin spent wandering after his time of the Hitokiri and before actually meeting Kaoru, which would then kick-start the anime TV series. Eventually the premise would change to Kenshin 'reflecting' on his wandering years. It was then said that the OVA would be set several years in the future, with aspects of Kenshin's and Kaoru's child, Kenji involved. In the manga, which went 28 volumes, we know of Kenji's birth, and there are many aspects that were not depicted in the anime series as well. But then again with all the manga to anime releases out there, what manga series has ever been directly detailed into anime series? With that in mind, those who were familiar with both the manga and anime series in regards to Rurouni Kenshin could associate further as to what could or might be possibly be expected.

From Manga to Anime and the Jinchuu Arc

    What was omitted? In the Rurouni Kenshin series both through the manga and the anime, one specific overlap separated the two in regards to significant points of the storyline. Though are many details and differences in regards to specific character backgrounds and how certain situations were led up to and ended. The most significant of all these aspects is the association of the Jinchuu Arc and how it was never animated.

Jinchuu Arc and the Timeline

    Where does the Jinchuu Arc take place? In regards to the timeline, the Jinchuu Arc occurs after the Kyoto Arc. The Kyoto Arc for brief reference is the storyline of what happened once Kenshin discontinued his duties as the Hitokiri Battousai. And from there, Makoto Shishio was credited for the replacement of Kenshin's duties. Previous to the Kyoto Arc is the Toyko Arc, which introduced the characters of the series and kick-started the entire manga and anime TV series. Following the Jinchuu Arc was the Shimabara Arc. This Arc does not occur in the manga but only in the anime series. It consisted of Kenshin's continuing defence for the Meiji government against the man, Amakusa Shougo and the acknowledgement as successor of the Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu. A quick reference to the episode listing and manga placement, in regards to their relevance in the storyline is listed below:

    Tokyo Arc

        Episode listing: 1-12, 19-21, 23-24

        Manga placement: chapters 1-47

    Kyoto Arc

        Episode listing: 28-62

        Manga placement: chapters 48-151

    Jinchuu Arc

        Manga placement: chapters 165-170, 172-178

    Memorial Arc (occurs within Jinchuu Arc)

        Rurouni Kenshin: Tsuioko Hen (4 part OVA)

        Manga placement: chapter 171

    Shimabara Arc

        Episode listing: chapters 67-76

What is the Jinchuu Arc?

What is the Jinchuu Arc? The significance of this Arc is that it occurs only in the manga. It further describes the future consequences of Kenshin because of his past actions. The Jinchuu Arc describes in detail Enishi and his Revengers. This Arc is also sometimes referred to as the 'Revenger Arc.' What this Arc consisted of was the following of Enishi who was the younger brother of Yukishiro Tomoe. Jinchuu loosely translated means, "man's justice." The significance of Enishi was that he witnessed Kenshin kill his sister, Tomoe. The story of Himura Kenshin and Yukishiro Tomoe is acknowledged in the four-part OVA, Rurouni Kenshin: Tsuioku Hen. The Jinchuu Arc basically therefore consisted of Enishi's revenge against Kenshin. In his quest he recruits five other men who all have vindictive associations with Kenshin as well. The revenger's included: Enishi, Gein, Inui Banshin, Kujiranami Hyougo, Otowa Hyouko and Yatsume Mumyouni.

Looking Back at Rurouni Kenshin: Tsuioku Hen

Why all the back reference? Where is the actual Rurouni Kenshin: Seisou Hen review? To better understand what takes place in the new OVA, we are simply acknowledging the most significant parts of the Kenshin storyline. Therefore we now look at the Tsuioku Hen Arc or 'Memorial Arc.' This Arc consisted of the storyline of how in fact Himura Kenshin became the Hitokiri Battousai. Also, more importantly along the timeline it occurs within the Jinchuu Arc. The OVA is a four-part series and is significant in various aspects. It greatly differs in atmosphere and overall presentation of Rurouni Kenshin. Tsuioku Hen is emotional and provoking. The animation for this OVA is completely different then that of the anime TV series. Hear we are presented with a darker setting and the character designs are more dynamic in a true sense of dramatic presentation. Hear we can simply acknowledge the realistic nature of the series as a whole. This OVA is a tribute to "classic Japanese Samurai cinema."

A Closer Look at Rurouni Kenshin: Tsuioku Hen

    Released in 1999, Tsuioku Hen describes the beginnings of Himura Kenshin, before he became a 'rurouni' (wandering) samurai, his actions as the Hitokiri Battousai and the origins of the cross-shaped scar. Hear we find that out about Kenshin's real lineage. Kenshin's real name is actually Shinta, given to him by his parents. In this OVA we then learn of the loss of Kenshin's parents to the disease, cholera. As a result, Shinta finds himself picked up by slave traders and during an attack by a group of bandits; three sisters are killed shielding and protecting Shinta. A swordsman who happens to witness the bandit's attack then saves Shinta. This swordsman is Seijiro Hiko, who subsequently is the 13th successor of the fighting style, Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu. In their meeting of chance, Hiko now realizes that Shinta has been entrusted with the lives of the three sisters who had saved his life. From there, Hiko then agrees to teach Shinta the fighting style, Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu, in hopes that he will one day use this to protect people. As a result of now becoming a swordsman, Shinta's name is changed to Kenshin.
    The OVA fast-forwards now several years into the future, and now Himura Kenshin is regarded as the lethal Hitokiri Battousai. During the occupational war leading up to the Meiji restoration period, many factions found themselves within battle with one another. The Hitokiri were assassin for the government who were assigned duties in regards to the death of specific individuals, significant elder's, head officials or administrators. On one evening, a young group of men surround an elder and passively walk along in conversation. They talk about the upcoming wedding of one of the men within the group, Kyosato Akira. Kyosata is to wed his childhood sweetheart Yukishiro Tomoe. They briefly reminisce and comment how despite the dark times, such a joyous event can occur. Meanwhile as they walk they eventually run into a shadowy figure that comes out of the limelight and it turns out to be Kenshin. After a brief exchange of words in regards to beliefs and duties for their own associations, the group of men rush to protect the elder by attacking Kenshin. Easily eliminating them, Kenshin now finds himself fighting the soon to be wed, Kyosata Akira. In a valiant fight to protect the elder, Kyosata rushes to attack. Although fighting a losing battle, Kyosata gathers enough strength to head in with one final attack. As a result, he gashes Kenshin across his left cheek. (Creating the first initial scar from what we know as the cross-shaped scar.) Although now deeply wounded, Kyosata still finds the will to live because of his love for Tomoe. Meanwhile Kenshin despite being in shock from being cut across the face sees Kyosata reaching for a flower. Himura in anger quickly strikes and stabs Kyosata through the throat, ending his life.
    As the OVA continues, more time passes and we are now brought to a scene where Kenshin walking on his way back to the Kohagi Inn, where he is staying. As he walks he begins to reminisce about his training and time with Hiko. We are reintroduced the philosophy of what Hiko was hoping for by teaching Kenshin the Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu. The importance lied in that by using this fighting technique its value lied in the protection of others under the user's free will. However Kenshin had strayed from this path and by the age of fourteen a member of the Chosuhuu Ishin Shishi, Kogorou Katsura discovered him. Because of Kenshin's deadly talent he quickly rose to become Japan's most lethal assassin. Despite with what he had become, Kenshin viewed his actions as not those of a murderer, but by protecting the weak from the corrupt. Soon later during that same night, Kenshin finds himself attacked by Rensato Murakami of the enemy group, Yaminobu. True to his skill, Kenshin disposes of him in a single and lethal slash. However in the limelight a young woman is present who witnesses this murder. The woman is Yukishiro Tomoe. After seeing the massacre, she utters the words, "You made it rain of blood," as she falls to the ground fainting. Kenshin is now in a predicament where a public bystander has witnessed him assassinate someone. Unsure of whether or not to kill her, he instead chooses to bring her back to his hotel room at the Kohagi Inn. 
    (NOTE: The reason for Yukishiro Tomoe being in Kyoto is not a coincidence, she travels there from Edo to find her fiancé's killer. However, the meeting of Kenshin on the street is of chance. It is an instance like this that is hard to believe would actually happen in real life, as the director of the OVA, Furubashi Kazuhiro states in the November 2001 press release in Newtype magazine.)
    After their encounter, the next morning Kenshin comes down from his room to see Tomoe helping the Kohagi Inn's establishment by cleaning. The local men within the Inn laugh about the situation of Kenshin, as the Hitokiri Battousai bringing a woman to the Inn. Kenshin is not impressed and leaves not before stopping the conversation amongst the men, by scaring them in reaching for his sword. As time passes and with their stay at the Inn, Tomoe and Kenshin begin to exchange more words and learn more about each other. Soon after, more time passes by and Katsura warns Kenshin of the dangers of hiding at the Inn. Thus, both Kenshin and Tomoe move up in the mountains and reside there under the alias of husband and wife and as medicine sellers. 
    As their mountain life continues, these become happier times for Kenshin and Tomoe congruently learns more about Kenshin. As time lingers forward, she falls in love with him despite knowing of his actions as the Battousai and that of her fiancé's death by him. Soon thereafter, Enishi, Tomoe's younger brother who is at the age of 10 at the time, travels to Kyoto to find his sister. After arriving at the mountain home, he is disgusted to hear about how she has grown feelings for Kenshin and tries to remind her of everything he has done to her, especially that of her late fiancé.
    (NOTE: The relevancy of both the manga and anime OVA depict the relationship in different terms. In the manga, Kenshin and Tomoe do in fact fall in love and get married. Where as in the OVA, the simply fall in love and pose as husband and wife. There are also a few other discrepancies that have not been pointed out throughout this summary of Tsuioku Hen.)
    Later that night, Kenshin promises to keep Tomoe's happiness forever. Tomoe smiles at this fact and realizes that despite all things, this is the first time she has been content for a long time.
    The next morning, we find Tomoe preparing to leave as she packs a dagger within her Kimono. But as she steps out the door, she looks back at the still sleeping Kenshin and bids her second love of her life, an emotional goodbye. Kenshin then awakens to find Tomoe gone and gathers his sword to begin searching for her. Upon leaving the mountain home, he runs into one of the Ishin Shishi who then reveals to Kenshin that Tomoe has betrayed him and has gone to plot his death with the assistance of the Yaminobu Ninja. Unwilling to believe what he has been told; the member of the Ishin Shishi then passes him her journal. And it is now here that Kenshin realizes his crime as the person who killed her fiancé. He also realizes that how he has broken his promise in keeping Tomoe's happiness forever, by his past action of killing her previous love. In emotional distress, Kenshin then runs off to the mountains to find Tomoe.
    Meanwhile in the mountain hideout, Tatsumi questions Tomoe about the weakness of Kenshin. She mentions to him, "it is the kindness that is not that of a Hitokiri." And at that moment she takes out her dagger and attempts to kill Tatsumi. However, he easily overpowers her and knocks her to the ground. Rendered slightly unconscious to her surroundings, Tomoe sees the ghost of Kyosata Akira, which causes her to try to stand up. As she stands Kyosata's ghost inturn disappears, and Tomoe is left contemplating about just what has occurred. As Kenshin continues his journey up the mountain path, he is emotionally distressed and despite what he has caused, decides it his duty to protect what little happiness Tomoe might have left as his final act on Earth. Along the way to the mountain hideout, Kenshin is attacked by three other members of the Yaminobu Ninja: Nakajo, Sumita and Yatsume Mumyouni. Along the way he is wounded, and more significantly, Kenshin finds that his scar across his face from Kyosata has started to bleed again. Finally as Kenshin arrives at the mountain hideout, we see Tatsumi standing outside and behind him is Enishi.
    As the fight between Kenshin and Tatsumi ensues, Tomoe regains consciousness and realizes the importance of a loss of another loved one through Kenshin. At the same instance, Kenshin is beaten due to his emotional state, yet the promise he made to Tomoe about keeping her happiness forever instils one last surge of energy for him. He uses that as a driving force to attack with one final strike at Tatsumi. However, at the same time Tomoe rushes outside and sees Tatsumi about to strike back as well. She then runs toward the battle and attempts to shield Kenshin and at the same instance uses her dagger to kill Tatsumi. As Kenshin comes down with his sword he strikes with all energy he has left, only to open his eyes to see in front of him Tomoe falling to the ground. Enishi meanwhile is in terrible shock at witnessing the death of his sister by Kenshin. As both Tatsumi and Tomoe fall to the ground, Kenshin catches Tomoe. And at that instant, Kenshin begins to cry at what has just happened. Tomoe then reaches up to touch Kenshin's scar and reaches for her dagger and scratches his face along the scar, creating a cross-scar. They look at each other, and Tomoe smiles at Kenshin. And at last smile of happiness, Tomoe dies in Kenshin's arms.
    We are now then pressed towards the future again, and we see that Tomoe has been cremated. We are then introduced to a scene where Katsura has come to call upon Kenshin again. And he tells him that the man who had told Kenshin that Tomoe was a traitor was in fact a traitor himself. As Kenshin listens on, he learns of the details of that man's eventual demise. But more importantly, he absorbs everything that has occurred and makes an oath over Tomoe, that once the new era arrives, he would never kill again.

A Closer Look at the Jinchuu Arc

This is section is primarily based on specific events within the manga concerning the Jinchuu Arc. Near the end of Part I of this feature we established the primary basis of what the Jinchuu Arc was about, that being Enishi and the Revenger's revenge against Kenshin. Although Enishi's main satisfaction is to see Kenshin die, he wants him to live long enough to suffer. Thus begins an extensive plan in breaking down Kenshin's being.

Below the Jinchuu Arc is briefly described in a sequence of significant events. The source of this material is the events that occur within the manga series, chapters 165-170 and 172-178.

1. Enishi gets Kujiranami Hyougo to bomb the Akabeko Café, where Kenshin group frequently visits.

2. Enishi uses Gein's master of manipulating human flesh by creating a life like doll of Kaoru.

3. A first fight between Enishi and Kenshin occurs. Enishi causes a diversion by throwing a smoke bomb during the fight.

4. While the smoke covers the area, Kaoru is drugged and kidnapped by Enishi, who then takes her to an island.

5. Kaoru is replaced with the life like doll made by Gein. The Kaoru doll has a knife stabbed in her heart and a cross-shaped scar scratched on her left cheek.

6. Kenshin and the rest of the group mourn over the lost of Kaoru. Kenshin locks up his sword and leaves to live the rest of his life at the village of "lost souls."

7. Kaoru struggles to escape from her captives and resides for some time on the island with Enishi against her will.

8. Aoshi questions the death of Kaoru. Thus, he and the group dig up Kaoru's body only to find out it is a fake.

9. Kujiranami Hyougo of the Revengers is arrested but escapes. He then fights with Yahiko.

10. Sanzou Tsubame runs to get Kenshin's help during Yahiko's fight with Hyougo. By pleading with him he snaps out of his grievant state.

11. Kenshin helps Yahiko in defeating Hyougo.

12. Enishi realizes that he must confront Kenshin one last time to the death.

13. Kenshin and Enishi fight.

14. Misao brings Tomoe's diary. Enishi reads it to learn of Tomoe's true feelings for Kenshin.

15. Enishi realizes the trouble he has caused and comes to the understanding of how Kenshin was right.

16. Kaoru is reunited with Kenshin and friends.

17. Enishi leaves and decides to live in the village of "lost souls."

A First Glance at Rurouni Kenshin: Seisou Hen

With the details of both the Tsuioku Hen and Jinchuu arcs and their relationship described. The importance lies in the certain events that occur within the new OVA Seisou Hen. The overall premise of part one of Seisou Hen is in the establishment of the setting and a general recap of the most significant and emotional sequences that occur within the Kenshin saga, in relation to both the manga and anime series. Although the Seisou Hen Arc is indeed a completely original adaptation, it presents the Jinchuu Arc as a significant turning point in relation to the continuation of the OVA into part two.
    Why is this particular arc only animated now? This arc does present a very important revelation in such that it finalizes the Tsuioku Hen Arc. Remember the Tsuioku Hen or Memorial Arc took place within the Jinchuu Arc. During the development of the Kenshin anime series, season three consisted of what is referred to as 'filler' episodes. These filler episodes did not necessarily hold any main bearing to the plot of the Kenshin saga. And a better way to describe them is they had an episodic nature. In comparison to the Tokyo and Kyoto Arcs, season three was not as successful. However the reason for season three consisting of 'filler' episodes, was because Watsuki had not completed writing the Jinchuu Arc for the manga. Thus when season three aired, the reception of the 'filler' episodes was not accepted easily and as the episodes continued to air, fans began to lose interest. Thus, Kenshin was cancelled at episode 94 and the final episode, 95, never aired on television. Episode 95 is referred to many as the "lost episode." In loose comparison to the finalized manga ending in Kenshin Kaden (Watsuki's epilogue) and in the "lost episode" both have Kenshin finally enjoying the peace that he has seeked throughout his journey.

Rurouni Kenshin: Seisou Hen Part I of the new OVA

    The significance of Seisou Hen is that it is indeed an original adaptation in regards to continuing storyline. Part one lasts approximately 40 minutes. It is a general summary of the most important events that occurred within the Kenshin saga, but more significantly, these flashbacks are done from Kaoru's point of view. Some details of the new OVA's presentation are that it has the same animation style as that of the four-part OVA, Tsuioku Hen. The director Furubashi Kazuhiro uses this style as a way to express the more dramatic realism in regards to the fluidity of expressing specific events. Although the flashbacks are nothing but glimpses back at parts fans have seen before, these flashbacks are completely reanimated using Tsuioku Hen's style. 
    So what occurs in the new OVA? The setting is 10 years from the time of Watsuki's epilogue. The date is Meiji 26 (1893) during this time an overseas war has broke out in the mainland, China. Himura Kenshin has gone to help fight in the war, leaving both his wife, Himura Kaoru and his son, Himura Kenji behind. Kenji's significance in this new OVA lies with his age. Kenji is depicted from between the ages of 12 to 14. From his age alone we can already determine the relation he has to the manga. Kenji near the end of manga collection is only at the age of 2 to 4. We are immediately introduced to the present time, by these events. We now know of what has been happening, and more specifically during Kenshin's absence from home. Kaoru as always still awaits his arrival and continually visits the harbor daily. The remainder of part one consists of a reintroduction of Yahiko and Tsubame as well as Kenji's training. From here on, Kaoru reflects back on specific events and we watch through her eyes how Kenshin's impact has changed her world.

Rurouni Kenshin: Seisou Hen in Detail

    It is Meiji 26th year. The opening sequence is that of a ship on its journey back from the mainland. A thunderstorm ravages the sea and we watch as waves continually crash alongside the ship. On the deck, a lone deckhand with a lantern struggles to make his way back to cabin. Along the way the waves prove to be too much for him and subsequently he is pushed off the stern of the ship. As fate might have it a lone figure saves the man from falling overboard. It is Himura Kenshin. Kenshin aids the man and brings him back onto the ship. Suddenly we see another violent wave strike the stern of the ship again. As the water subsides, we see the deckhand desperately holding onto the ship's wire and Kenshin is now nowhere to be found. As the ship fades into the distance, we watch the deckhand run back to the stern in hopes of finding his unknown savior.

    As the ship progresses further into the distance, we are introduced to the dark depths of the sea, and watch as Kenshin falls to bottom. As he gradually sinks, Himura speaks to himself. "My body… feels heavy… At this rate… I will… No… This is… at last…" Kenshin closes his eyes and the screen fades to black and displays the title 'Rurouni Kenshin: Seisou Hen.'
    The next scene then jumps to the busy harbour Tokyo docks and it soon zooms in on Kaoru who we can already assume awaits the return of her husband, Kenshin. After realizing Kenshin is not on the ship she then peacefully heads back to the Dojo. We watch the introductory credits role and watch a montage of the journey back from the docks by Kaoru. As the opening credits finish, the scene then introduces Tsubame coming out of the Akabeko Café heading toward and greeting Kaoru. Tsubame calls out to Kaoru and she thus stops to engage in what seems to be a daily conversation. Tsubame remarks, "You went to the harbor again?" Kaoru then nods, and remarks, "Don't worry, I'm sure he will come back. Up till now, no matter what's happened, he's always come back."
    We then watch Tsubame walk back into the Café and head upstairs to a room where a much older Yahiko looks out to the distance horizon through a window. Tsubame expresses her concern about Kenshin's delay in returning home and also how Kenji has left home as well, thus leaving Kaoru all alone. Yahiko remarks, "I will go see her later." Tsubame then hints at the reference that Kenshin might in fact be dead. Tsubame then comments on how the war that Kenshin has gone to assist in is over and mostly everyone has already returned home. And despite this Kaoru continues to visit the docks everyday. Yahiko does not like the suggestion that Kenshin might be dead. The conversation ends with Yahiko clitching Kenshin's sakabatou declaring, "Kenshin will come back." (In the last chapter of the manga, Yahiko inherits the sakabatou from kenshin.) The main concerns expressed here is that of Kaoru's deteriorating health and Kenshin's delay in returning.
    The scene then switches to that of to an open area, surrounded by trees and distant mountains. We watch as a single sword as it takes slices in the air, as the sun begins to set. It is Kenji who from what we see has undergone training through his father's sensei, Seijiro Hiko to learn the Hiten Mitsurugi Ryu. Kenji puts his sword away and says to Hiko that he will stop because the sun is setting and prepare for dinner. As he heads back to the hut, Hiko makes the comment, "You still don't feel like going back to Tokyo?" As Kenji continues to walk further, he is stopped when Hiko adds, "He would…" "He would have returned by now…" "Wouldn't he?" Kenji then turns to Hiko and responds back, "Even if he does, a minute later he'll go off somewhere again." "Ever since I was a child, I've wondered." "Mother…" "Why does he choose to be with him?" Hiko then responds, "In that case, why do you stay here?" "You wouldn't be satisfied even if you attained your father's skill." Kenji then replies, "Because I want to know…" "A person's strength." "True strength, what it is!" The sun then sets in the background as we watch a close up of Hiko's face as he closes his eyes. Kenji then follows his path and continues toward the hut to prepare for dinner.
    It is also at this point where we are also introduced to an underlying tension that exists between Kenji and his father. These ill feelings are mainly routed from what we can see, due to his father's continual absence. And despite Kenshin's actions, Kenji fails to understand why his mother, Kaoru, remains and bears with Kenshin. 
    From there, the scene changes to Kaoru entering a dark and empty Dojo. And from here we are introduced to the beginnings of the flashback sequences. Kaoru then reflects back on when Kenshin was asked to go assist in the mainland war. We now watch a meeting between Himura and Yamagata. Yamagata says, "It has been 15 years…" "I want to ask you to do me a favour one last time." "Go to the mainland." "You already knew, right?" "The tensions in the mainland are heating up…" "A war will definitely break out." "Our military needs help." "I understand that fighting is against your atonement." "So go as an officer, and you will see for yourself that we are fighting for peace." Kenshin then responds, "Yamagata-san, More than overseeing a battle I wish to help those that are hurt in that battle. Fighting can start a chain reaction and lead to more fighting." "Injury cannot be avoided when there is fighting." "For that matter, I will have to go back to the mainland." "That requires me to gather up a lot of courage." "Furthermore, perhaps it will be my final atonement too." While speaking, Kenshin reveals to Yamagata what seems to be a disease on his left arm. The visual appearance of the disease can be best described as a bloodstain.
    The scene then switches back to Kaoru who seems to have walked past the room where the meeting took place. From here, we now watch Kaoru as she lies in her bed and eventually gets up. In another flashback we watch Kenshin who is sitting on the porch outside. He briefly looks at his bloodstained arm and immediately covers it up with his kimono. From a distance we watch Kenshin as he breaks down and as seems he begins to cry. Suddenly Kaoru arrives to places a blanket over his shoulders. Kaoru comments, "Aren't you cold?" The scene zooms in and fades out on the two who are now sitting together outside on the porch. Kaoru looks up to the moonlight and says quietly, "I will be waiting…" "Just as it always happens." "This time included…" "You will come back, right?" Kenshin looks over at Kaoru. Kaoru then makes a final remark, "So…" As if it were another casual occurrence. She then reaches out hold Kenshin's hand, which is outstretched along the porch. We grasps his hand firmly and says, "Have a safe trip…" We watch as a wind chime hanging from the dojo roof sounds in the moonlight as a brief breeze blows by. (In some ways this can be a direct reference to when Tomoe tries to cover up Kenshin who lies asleep while sitting at a table at the Kohagi Inn in the Tsuioku Hen OVA, at that instance, Kenshin was unaware of who it was, and as a reaction held his blade to Tomoe's neck in defence. And here we now see the difference in terms of Kenshin's reaction, by the same act or gesture.)
    The next day, which is still a flashback, we watch as Kenshin leaves and Kaoru stands in front of the dojo. As he disappears off screen, Kaoru begins to cry. We then jump to a scene inside the dojo and here we get a glimpse of Kaoru's right arm, which also suffers the same affliction that Kenshin's left arm has. Kaoru then gathers her composure and notices a sword like scratch that has been left on one of the wooden posts within the dojo. As she gently touches the mark the wooden post, she begins to faint and eventually falls to the ground. This scene here is that of present time. At the moment Kaoru passes out, Yahiko makes his arrival at the dojo and runs to check on Kaoru who lies on the dojo floor. Yahiko turns Kaoru around, allowing her to lie on her back and desperately calls out to her, continually asking, "Answer me, Kaoru!" As Yahiko turns Kaoru around, see then quietly thinks, as she passes out once again. "You… and I… Your scar has never faded." "That cross-shaped scar…" Kaoru closes her eyes thinking back on that final remark. The scene fades to black and we are introduced to the sequence of flashbacks that significantly describe the first meeting of Kenshin, and other specific points that occurred within the Tokyo Arc. Points of interest here are the completely reanimated Jin'eh fight and its significance of Kaoru's emotional impact of wanting Kenshin to remain as he is now.
    Following the Jin'eh sequence, the scene changes to a scene where Kenshin and Kaoru sit outside as the cherry blossom petals fall off the trees. During this time, Kaoru ask, "Will you ever smile in front of me?" Kenshin remarks how he could never enjoy the falling of the cherry blossoms petals. And then consequently remarks to Kaoru, about how on the previous night he had a dream. "About that time…" Kaoru responds, "The end of the Bakumatsu?" (Bakumatsu: The End of the Edo Era, where Kenshin was known as the Hitokiri Battousai.) Kenshin continues on, "Blood flowed as free as the flower petals." Kenshin then catches a flower petal and remarks, "But Sakura is Sakura." Kaoru then replies, "That's right. Time that's past is like a dream. And like a dream, before you know it, all pain will vanish." Kenshin then replies softly, "I hope so." The scene fades off a close up on Kaoru and then a transition to a swirl of cherry blossoms. She briefly thinks to herself, how someday Kenshin will show her a smile that comes from the heart, "Definitely."
    As the scene changes we find a younger Kaoru standing amongst the cherry blossoms, only to look around and Kenshin is nowhere around her. She then runs fanatically and calls out his name. And here we are introduced to reanimated scenes upon which Kenshin's enemy's have come back to face him. At each different tree she runs to a new flashback is introduced. The first is of Hajime Saitoh; another is of the Minister Okubo who came to the dojo to ask for Kenshin's help in assisting with affairs in Kyoto. Next we see Kaoru glancing back on a calendar with the significant date of the 14th, where Kenshin would decide whether or not to go to Kyoto. Another scene is of the assassination of Minister Okubo. We then watch as Kaoru runs outside from inside the dojo. From there, we are reintroduced to a reanimated firefly scene and the emotional goodbye between Kenshin and Kaoru, as he has decided to go to Kyoto.
    We then come to scene where a younger Kaoru appears to be in a distressful state as she is in now at present time. During this same instance, Yahiko comes to visit and we watch a passing of time from where Yahiko has come to her aid in both occurrences. A much older Yahiko looks watches over Kaoru in present time, as it seems he has brought Kaoru from fainting on the dojo floor to her room and bed. The wind chime outside then startles Yahiko and we are then greeted to another flashback scene.
    The next scene is the decision of the Kenshin Gumi to follow Kenshin to Kyoto. We watch another reanimated sequence of where they catch up with Kenshin at Hiko's home in the mountains. A significant event that occurs while they stay at Hiko's is that he gives Kaoru a cup with with cherry blossom branch drawn on it. He makes the statement to serve his pupil tea in this cup when they arrive back in Tokyo. After this scene we are introduced to a montage of battle sequences that occurred in the anime series. During these moments we hear Kaoru making a declaration to herself about no longer hiding from Kenshin's battles and will forever look on. We are then treated to reanimated sequences one is of the explosion of Shishio's ship in the sea, the Soujiro fight as well as Kenshin's most notable battle with Shishio. As this ends, we find ourselves watching from the moment Kenshin, Sanosuke and Aoshi return from the battle with Shishio. And from here we watch as the Kenshin Gumi makes their journey all the way back to Tokyo. There is then the reference made by Megumi of the importance of Kaoru's duty to always believe in Kenshin and be close to him. Because of what Kenshin has gone through he needs something to continually urge him forward and thus needs this to always know he has to come back to life.
    We then cut to a scene with Kenshin and Kaoru walking along the riverside. Kaoru makes the comment as they pass neighbouring people, "From now on, I hope people will live more peacefully." "In peace, there is no more needs for fights." "And then, we can all be together all the time." "Wouldn't that be nice?" Kenshin then responds, "That is quite impossible." "In the next era… Just as sword techniques change to reflect the flow of time." "Humans cannot remain constant." "At any rate, everyone will follow their own path." "It's sad, but that's the way it is." Kaoru respond naively, "But… I want to be with you forever." "So, please come back?" "Promise me?" Kenshin then turns toward Kaoru. Kaoru continues, "No matter what happens, that you'll return to me." Kenshin then lifts her head up with his right hand, and says, "Ever since we came back from Kyoto…" "And when I heard Kaoru-dono tell me, "Welcome Home," my heart has been very happy." "This man has found his partner… a place to go home to…" Kenshin then declares, "I only had myself to come back to…" And from here, we see Kenshin and Kaoru share their first kiss.
    The scene then jumps to the wind chime on the dojo roof as the setting sun reflects it. Upon arriving back at the dojo, they find a paper nailed to the head of the dojo's door. And written on it is the word, "Jinchuu." Kenshin then immediately runs off again and Kaoru is left alone at the dojo. When Kenshin arrives back home, Kaoru goes to greet him at the door, only to see that Kenshin has been wounded and is bleeding from the head. Kenshin then gets cleaned and bandaged by Kaoru and head off to bed without eating. As Kenshin disappears off screen, we are left with a scene of Kaoru in distress as she rest her head against a wall corner. We then see Kenshin sitting in his room in a contemplative manner. The scene then fades to Kaoru who is doing the same thing. She quietly says to herself as she cries, "No, This is not good." "This pain you feel, Kenshin. It's never been this strong." We then cut to a scene with the paper saying "Jinchuu" still nailed to the head of the dojo door.
    The scene then cuts to Kenshin looking up at the wind chime in the daylight and Kaoru brings tea out for them. Kaoru uses the cherry blossom cup that Hiko gave her, and thus carries out his request. And it is here for the first time, that Kenshin reveals the origin of the cross-shaped scar to Kaoru. About how it is about a, "grudge." He also reveals it is also linked to this, "Jinchuu." From here we are reintroduced to the sequence of events that occurred within the Tsuioku Hen OVA. All the images are silhouetted behind the flower image imprinted on the cup. Next we find Kaoru running amongst the cherry blossom tree crying and she says to herself as she kneels on the ground, "I thought… I thought, I'd finally had him back… But Kenshin's heart… is still somewhere else." As Kaoru is kneeling on the ground, we see a figure walk towards her from behind. The figure is Enishi. At this moment, Kaoru hears the footsteps and turns around. Realizing that she is now in danger, she tries to run away. Enishi then quickly grabs here and puts a cloth over her mouth and in turn drugs her. As this all occurs, Kaoru yells in her mind, "Kenshin!" Knowing that see cannot call for help, we watch as from her point of view, the scene fades to black. Part one of the OVA ends with Kenshin still sitting on the dojo porch awaiting Kaoru's return. He then looks up at the wind chime in the moonlight as it sounds with the light breeze of the late night wind.
    The credits roll over top an ocean shore setting.

Rurouni Kenshin: Seisou Hen - Historical Notes

    The nation of Japan as we know it today, existed as a collection of 270 Han (provinces) each ruled by a leader known as Daimyo.
    The ruling authority was the Tokugawa Bakufu (Tokugawa Military Regime) and was controlled by the Shogun, a military leader from the Tokugawa lineage who based his operations out of Edo, or modern day Tokyo.
    Japan existed like this from 1603-1867.
   Near the end of the Tokugawa Dynasty, times became very chaotic, and there were many rebellions. The aristocratic class of Samurai began fighting once again, among the various Han. This period is known as the Bakumatsu.
    In 1867, in an unprecedented move, in order to avoid further bloodshed the Shogun relinquished his power to a young emperor named Meiji, who's authority was located in Kyoto. This ended the chaos in Japan that existed during Bakumatsu. This is the Meiji Restoration.
    In the Bakumatsu, there were two predominant political groups, the Ishin Shishi, who fought to bring power to the emperor, and the Shinsen Gumi, or the military force defending the Tokugawa Shogunate.

The Second Part of Seisou Hen

    Part two is set for release in Japan, at the end of February. The only information that we know of thus far of what will occur in the second part of the OVA is the scene described by director Furubashi Kazuhiro in which Kaoru expresses her feelings for Kenshin to Enishi while at his hideout. From there we can assume that will we will see a resolve to the Jinchuu Arc. In truth the only option here, is to wait, and once the second part is released, many questions will be answered. The most important of them all is, "Will this be the ending that everyone will accept?" Regardless of how things are, one thing is for sure, it is definitely great to see a new Rurouni Kenshin OVA in the works.