Episode Title:
Crossing over the Strait.
Episode Description:
On March, second year of Meiji, the New Government Army prepares to send an ironclad warship called the CSS Stonewall after the Republic of Ezo conquered Goryōkaku. Three months earlier, Shiranui, Kakashi and Zagashira are surprised when Kobako and Benimaru find bullets at Hakodate Port, hinting that Ezo might soon turn into a battlefield. At Toukei Castle, Lord Shoten and Tatewaki visit Katsu and Saigo, asking them to have someone take Yojiro to Ezo. During his travels, Yojiro meets Ryōsuke Kuroda, who invites him to join the CSS Stonewall. In the present, Hijikata hears word that Kuroda will surrender the CSS Stonewall. As the officials of the republic believe this to be a trap set by Kuroda, Hijikata takes the risk and sets sail. On March 25, second year of Meiji, Yojiro and Kuroda are onboard the CSS Stonewall at Miyako Bay, as the Kaiten Maru and the Banryū Maru approach them. After Hijikata boards the CSS Stonewall, Kuroda gives the signal for his soldiers to attack in betrayal. During the crossfire, Kuroda remembers when Saigo told him to transport Yojiro to Ezo unharmed. On March 26, second year of Meiji, Yojiro and Hijikata reunite as they return to Hakodate.
