Hijikata, Toshizou
Summary
Hijikata Toshizo, known by the moniker Oni no Fukuchou, serves as the Shinsengumi's second-in-command and is widely regarded as the group's Demon. He practices the Tennen Risshin Style and maintains a stern, unforgiving, and seemingly cruel exterior that masks a far more complex personality. As a founding member of the Shinsengumi, he authored the Internal Regulations and established the Tennen-Rishin Ryu fighting style that defined the unit. While he appears to hold significant control, major decisions are actually made by a council consisting of himself, Kondou, and Yamanami. Hijikata serves as the mentor to the prodigious swordsman Okita Souji and is an exceptionally skilled fighter in his own right, demonstrating his prowess early in the series. Despite his harsh demeanor, he displays deep concern for others, particularly worrying about Okita’s illness and refusing to allow the young Tetsunosuke to wield a sword out of fear that the boy will suffer the same tragic fate. His uncompromising attitude stems from a profound commitment to the Shinsengumi; he reprimanded Kondou for treating the group too casually, insisting that they maintain a sharp edge rather than acting like a gang of buddies. Although he tolerates no imperfection, his leadership is fair, earning him the respect of all forty members of the Shinsengumi.
