OVA
Description
Isami Kondou commands the Shinsengumi, wielding significant authority even as Vice Commander Toshizo Hijikata handles much daily operation. His leadership thrives on authentic charisma and deep familial bonds, inspiring fierce loyalty. Kondou radiates a consistently jovial and enthusiastic demeanor, often perceived as boyishly optimistic; Hijikata remarks he could "find some way to make a funeral fun." This optimism occasionally obscures harsh realities or consequences, and his ego can impair judgment, yet he possesses a strong moral compass. He reacts with horror upon realizing he barged into Chizuru Yukimura's room unannounced or that the Shinsengumi contemplated killing a girl.
He demonstrates early compassion, urging Souji Okita to show mercy during Chizuru's initial interrogation and later permitting Hajime Saito to ensure her safety. Discovering Chizuru is female—having initially mistaken her for a "rather pretty" boy—Kondou actively shields her from humiliation and warmly invites her to share her story. He enthusiastically pledges Shinsengumi aid to find her missing father, expressing regret over her living in "a house full of men." He personally visits her during confinement, easing her anxiety with tea and candies, assuring her of guest treatment and discussing potential outings. His interactions highlight encouragement, like anticipating her cooking and teasingly labeling Hijikata and Okita the group's worst cooks.
Kondou balances approachability with command, personally leading raids and confronting threats. During a chaotic incident involving a disruptive cat, he advocates cooperative resolution, later reassuring Chizuru that fostering joy is time well spent. He emphasizes preserving morale, stating he prefers "when girls smile." His protectiveness extends to his men, grounding Okita due to tuberculosis concerns and meticulously dicing spring onions into his porridge to ensure he eats despite Okita's dislike.
Strategically, Kondou authorizes missions like Chizuru’s undercover reconnaissance as a geisha in Shimabara. He later approves terminating this mission upon Heisuke Toudou's argument of its inappropriateness, showing responsiveness to his captains. He oversees critical operations, briefing intelligence units on locating Chizuru’s father and ordering secrecy around her situation. His leadership navigates political upheavals, discussing Edo defections with Hijikata and conflicts with entities like Bakufu inspectors.
Personally traditional, Kondou avoids Western clothing favored by most Shinsengumi. He composes haiku, inspired by first snow, though he becomes embarrassed when others discover his poetry. Historical context references a wife and daughter in his hometown.
Kondou’s narrative includes significant hardship, particularly in Kazama Chikage’s route where news of his execution reaches Chizuru after separation. His presence persists in later media, like musicals where his character is frequently referenced or implied offstage.
He demonstrates early compassion, urging Souji Okita to show mercy during Chizuru's initial interrogation and later permitting Hajime Saito to ensure her safety. Discovering Chizuru is female—having initially mistaken her for a "rather pretty" boy—Kondou actively shields her from humiliation and warmly invites her to share her story. He enthusiastically pledges Shinsengumi aid to find her missing father, expressing regret over her living in "a house full of men." He personally visits her during confinement, easing her anxiety with tea and candies, assuring her of guest treatment and discussing potential outings. His interactions highlight encouragement, like anticipating her cooking and teasingly labeling Hijikata and Okita the group's worst cooks.
Kondou balances approachability with command, personally leading raids and confronting threats. During a chaotic incident involving a disruptive cat, he advocates cooperative resolution, later reassuring Chizuru that fostering joy is time well spent. He emphasizes preserving morale, stating he prefers "when girls smile." His protectiveness extends to his men, grounding Okita due to tuberculosis concerns and meticulously dicing spring onions into his porridge to ensure he eats despite Okita's dislike.
Strategically, Kondou authorizes missions like Chizuru’s undercover reconnaissance as a geisha in Shimabara. He later approves terminating this mission upon Heisuke Toudou's argument of its inappropriateness, showing responsiveness to his captains. He oversees critical operations, briefing intelligence units on locating Chizuru’s father and ordering secrecy around her situation. His leadership navigates political upheavals, discussing Edo defections with Hijikata and conflicts with entities like Bakufu inspectors.
Personally traditional, Kondou avoids Western clothing favored by most Shinsengumi. He composes haiku, inspired by first snow, though he becomes embarrassed when others discover his poetry. Historical context references a wife and daughter in his hometown.
Kondou’s narrative includes significant hardship, particularly in Kazama Chikage’s route where news of his execution reaches Chizuru after separation. His presence persists in later media, like musicals where his character is frequently referenced or implied offstage.