The Shinsen-gumi–Onishu conflict escalates, causing defections. Naruto and Inokubi vow to prove Shizuka’s innocence, leaving Namakura and Hijikata in charge. They investigate while Shizuka hides with his boss. At the hospital, a scuffle implicates Shinsen-gumi, causing arrests and deaths. Seeing the situation and loyal members’ faith, Shizuka resolves to confront Onishu-gumi himself.