Hachirou Iba

Iba Hachirō (伊庭 八郎 Iba Hachirou) is a samurai serving Bakufu and one of the main protagonists in Hakuouki games. He is an old friend of Hijikata's, the heir to the Shingyoto-yu Iba Dojo (one of the four oldest and most respected fencing schools in Edo), and a hatamoto (high-ranking vassal of the Tokugawa who serve the Shōgun directly) in an organization called Okuzume (comprised of talented swordsmen from Bakufu and lower-ranking vassals, intent on protecting the Bakufu).
He is based on the historical Iba Hachirō and does not appear in the anime or the original game, being the newer addition to the story starting from Kyoto Winds and Edo Blossoms.
== Personality ==
Iba is kind, gentle, polite, and prefers to resolve conflicts peacefully rather than resorting to violence. Even against his supposed enemies, Iba remains polite to them, referring them with suffix "-san" in Japanese. He places others' needs above his own and, despite having been raised in an affluent family, he is generous and humble. However, he has a habit of acting in others' best interests without their permission and/or approval, and can at times be so preoccupied with what he believes is best for his loved ones that he loses track of what they actually want. Although not shy, Iba can be reserved, as his attitude tends toward the formal despite his warmth.
While usually calm and collected, Iba is quick to let his emotions get the better of him whenever Chizuru is involved. Having feelings for her since childhood, Iba is very protective of Chizuru to the point that he would be willing to soil his hand. He's also easier to agitate if someone were to harm Chizuru in any way, and prone to bouts of jealousy to the ones whom he considers a love rival. However, regardless of his personal feelings, he still prioritizes Chizuru's feelings and respects her choices. 
== Background ==
Iba Hachiro is based on the historical figure of the same name, Iba Hachirou. He is the eldest son of Iba Gunbei, the master of one of the most respected dojos in Japan.
In his childhood, Iba met Chizuru when he visited the Yukimura clinic, although she never visited his household. He often visited to read Kodo's Western books and playing with Chizuru. Both of them soon became close friends that Chizuru considered him like an older brother (in Japanese, Chizuru even refers to him as "Hachiro nii-san"). One day, Iba witnessed Chizuru being bullied by other children. Upon witnessing her supernatural healing rate, Iba assured Chizuru that he doesn't mind with it, but advised her to keep it hidden to avoid further bullying. When Chizuru was still depressed, Iba promised her that he will protect her from the bullies. Since then, he began training to be the best swordsman possible. 
In Shinkai Drama CD, Iba first met Hijikata and the others back when they were still students at Shieikan, when the group helped him fighting against ronins who attacked him from being the son of Iba Dojo. Intrigued by their swordsmanship, Iba trained harder and couldn't forget about them. One day, Motoyama told Iba to forget about Hijikata and the others due to not only bad rumours surrounding them, but also the ronins who were beaten by them prior were planning for revenge against the Shieikan. Iba ignored Motoyama's warning and head to the Shieikan to alert them about the incoming attack. Feeling indebted, Iba volunteered to help them fighting against the ronins. While investigating the ronins, Iba regularly visited Shieikan, training with them. Soon after, the said ronins finally made their move, so Iba and the others coordinated a plan to stop them. Under Hijikata's leadership, they successfully defeated the ronins. Even though his debt has been repaid, Iba had became fascinated by Hijikata and the others' swordsmanship and aspiration that he continued to visit them after the incident.
Eventually, despite never having been involved in an actual battle or taken any lives before, he became a master of the Shingyoto style. At some point following this, Iba began working directly for the shogunate and became an okuzume.
== In Hakuōki: Kyoto Winds ==
See also: Iba Hachiro/Route
===Chapter 1===
Iba first made his appearance when Chizuru witnessed Takeda Kenryusai falsely accusing the store owner of the shop she was visiting being connected to the rebels. Iba noticed Chizuru intends to stop Takeda, so he stopped her first and assured her he will handle it. He took Takeda outside to settle the matter. When Takeda was about to unsheathe his sword, Iba intercepted it, holding it back in its cover. This gained people's attention who thought the Shinsengumi is causing a problem. Knowing how it'll ruin the Shinsengumi's reputation if he start a fight, Takeda reluctantly relent but not before warning Iba of his grudge. After Takeda left, Chizuru questioned Iba his reason for helping her, to which Iba answered that she reminded him of someone he knew. 
They returned to the tea shop to find the owner has poured them fresh tea and yōkan (sweet bean jelly) as thanks for his help. After finishing their meals, Iba and Chizuru discussed what happened with Takeda earlier, and Chizuru apologized for what Takeda did as she doesn't want Iba to think all Shinsengumi are like him. Iba realized Chizuru's affiliation with the Shinsengumi, but won't press the subject further. He then excused himself, but not before referring Chizuru by her name, surprising her. 
===Chapter 2===
Iba returned to Kyoto under the shogunate order. He visited the Shinsengumi compound after hearing that Hijikata and the others became members of Shinsengumi. His sudden visit surprised Hijikata, making Chizuru wondering how they knew each other. Chizuru then introduced Iba to Hijikata as the person who helped her during the incident with Takeda. Hijikata apologized and thanked him for not reporting it to anyone. Hijikata asked what order given by the shogunate for Iba to come to Kyoto, which Iba answered that he was appointed as an okuzume, a personal bodyguard for the shogun. Iba then asked if a woman can be with the Shinsengumi despite the dangerous situation, alarming Hijikata and Chizuru. Sensing their discomfort, Iba realized that the fact Chizuru is a woman is a secret and he told Hijikata not to blame her as it shouldn't be difficult to tell that she's a girl. Hijikata explained the circumstances behind Chizuru's stay with the Shinsengumi. Hearing Chizuru's father is missing, Iba identified him as Kodo Yukimura, further surprising Chizuru and Hijikata. Iba finally revealed that when he was a child, he had visited the Yukimura clinic and often played with Chizuru, making them childhood friends. Iba was saddened to know that Chizuru couldn't remember him, but promised to come to visit as often as possible so that she can remember him from now on. He then met with Okita, Heisuke, Harada, and Shinpachi who came soon after. 
They spent time together until evening when Iba finally excused himself. Before he departed, Takeda arrived and immediately remembered Iba from their last encounter. Iba pretended not knowing him before formally introducing himself and his presence in Shinsengumi is simply to greet Hijikata and the others who are his old friends. Takeda didn't buy this, accusing him of trying to spread lies about the incident at the tea shop. Iba retaliated by threatening to bring up about the incident, once again forcing Takeda to stay quiet. Hijikata apologized for Takeda's behaviour and promised he'll make sure Takeda won't bother him again, but Iba didn't mind and instead asked Hijikata to take care of Chizuru since she might get into trouble if Takeda find out she's witnessing the incident.
Iba once again visited the Shinsengumi, approaching Chizuru in her room right when she was practicing to act more like a boy, which he commented doesn't suit her, much to Chizuru's embarrassment. Iba informed Chizuru that he went to Edo to find more information about Kodo, but unfortunately found nothing. Seeing Chizuru's disappointment, Iba lied that he heard rumours about someone fitting Kodo's description and then used it as an excuse to Inoue to allow him take Chizuru out on a walk. Only then Iba revealed his lie and he took her out of compound so she can relax, assuring her that Inoue himself has seen through his lie but nevertheless gave his approval for her sake. Chizuru took Iba's offer and requested for a stroll until afternoon. From their walk, Chizuru was surprised by how much concern Iba showed for her. She once again apologized for not remembering him at all even though he does. Iba assured her that he understood, revealing that she was still five years old when they played together. Iba then asked Chizuru if she remember the promise they made when they were children. Chizuru mistook his question as referring to the incident at the tea shop, but Iba didn't correct her and instead confirmed it before escorting her back to the compound.
===Chapter 3===
When the Shinsengumi was tasked to defend the shogun during his meeting at Nijo Castle, Iba came to Chizuru's rescue before Kazama, Amagiri, and Shiranui could abduct her. He fought against Amagiri and seemingly fighting on par against the demon, but his sword was then easily stopped by Amagiri when Iba saw what he believed to be an opening. Amagiri noticed that all of Iba's blows were aimed at non-vital spots, indicating that Iba didn't have any intention on killing them. This earned him harsh criticism from Kazama and Shiranui who pointed out the necessity of killing in real battle. Shiranui tried to shoot Iba, but was stopped by Chizuru who took the shot instead, injuring both of her hands. Iba and Chizuru were cornered until Hijikata, Saitou, and Harada arrived to help. While the three captains fights the demons, Iba tended to Chizuru's injuries. Iba coaxed Chizuru to show her hands when she tried to hide it and saw her injuries have already healed. Seeing Chizuru's discomfort, Iba assured Chizuru that to him, she's just a normal girl and was glad to know that Chizuru kept her promise all this time. Chizuru slowly recalled Iba in their childhood, finally recognizing him. Chizuru didn't remember Iba before because Iba was not as tall and gallant as he is now, surprising the said person. Iba shifted the conversation back to Kazama, Amagiri, and Shiranui, asking what they meant by Chizuru being one of them, but Chizuru herself didn't understand. They stopped their conversation to regroup with Hijikata, Saitou, and Harada.
Later, Iba arranged for Dr. Ryojun Matsumoto to do a health check-up for the entire Shinsengumi members. He accompanied the doctor to give information about what Matsumoto know about Kodo before Iba questioned Hijikata, Kondo, and Sannan about Rasetsu, the okuzume having been notified by the Bakufu about the experiment done by Kodo. After listening to Hijikata's explanation, Iba requested for the experiment to be stopped, fearing an outbreak. Hijikata refused to stop, wanting to find a cure for the ones who already became Furies, including Sannan. Sympathetic to Sannan's condition, Iba was unable to refute any further argument and reluctantly relent in allowing the Shinsengumi to continue the experiment.
In the middle of the meeting, Iba heard his name being called by Chizuru after she left to brew fresh tea, prompting him to follow her to find her being accosted by Takeda. He immediately guided Chizuru behind him and thanked her for calling his name. When questioned by Takeda about his presence at the compound, Iba answered that he's accompanying Matsumoto to discuss the health and condition of Shinsengumi men. Takeda didn't believe Iba's excuse, so Iba once again threatened Takeda that he will tell Kondo about what happened during their first encounter, convincing Takeda to stand down. Sannan, who followed him, warned Iba not to get into further altercation with Takeda, explaining that Takeda's foul mood was caused by his recent slump and Itou's arrival. Iba accepted Sannan's advice, but reaffirmed that it was wrong for Takeda to take out his frustration on others. Before leaving, Iba told Chizuru to be careful as well and not to be alone with Takeda.
During a whole month of his frequent visit to the compound, Iba's friendliness managed to warm up the other Shinsengumi members for exception of Takeda. He also helped in some training exercises as his skill was comparable to that of the captains. One day, Okita challenged Iba for a match, which ended with Iba's loss. Okita criticised Iba's swordsmanship has became pale and lifeless compared to back when they were still training at Shieikan, offending Iba. Before Heisuke could challenge Iba, Takeda interrupted and challenged him instead. When Iba was hesitant, Takeda indirectly threatened that he will challenge Chizuru if he refuse, forcing Iba to accept. Distracted by what Okita said, Iba at first couldn't fully concentrated on the match, but soon able to deflect all of Takeda's attacks, angering the latter that he aimed for Iba's stomach. Noticing that Takeda intentionally targeting Iba's vital point, Saitou quickly stopped the match. Takeda attempts to defend himself but is reprimanded by Saitou, Harada and Kondo.
After the training session, Chizuru noticed Iba looked troubled, and Iba admitted that he was bothered by what Okita told him. Iba realized the truth in Okita's words, as unlike him who grew up safely in Edo until recently, Okita fought countless deadly battles with his life on the line. This made Iba determined to polish his swordsmanship so he can be prepared should he fight with his life one the line. Worrying for Chizuru's safety within the compound, Iba offered to take her with him, but Chizuru kindly refused and in exchange she will call for his help if something happens. They are interrupted by Motoyama's arrival, who scolded Iba to be more attentive to his job. Iba introduced Motoyama and Chizuru to each other, teasing Motoyama who is intimidated by the Shinsengumi that Chizuru is Hijikata's page, causing Motoyama to become afraid that he dragged Iba out of the compound immediately afterwards.
Iba met Chizuru again during New Year. He spotted Chizuru lost amongst the crowds and quickly approached her. Learning how she got separated from Okita and Kondo, Iba offered to escort her back to the compound and explain the situation. While escorting her back to the compound, Iba took her to a snack shop so she can enjoy tasting castella. Iba admitted that he purposely took the long route to cheer her up. On their way back, Iba met Sen and introduced himself as an Okuzume and Chizuru's childhood friend. When Sen questioned whether Chizuru was bullied or not by the Shinsengumi, Chizuru was reminded how the men are on edge due to the recent failed Chōshū expedition. Knowing what she was thinking, Iba assured Chizuru that he will protect her like he promised. This gained Sen's attention who questioned if Iba was serious in fulfilling that promise while warning him that the ones who after her are dreadful opponents. Iba answered that he has a reason to protect Chizuru even if she doesn't remember it.
Sen approved Iba's answer and entrusted Chizuru to him before leaving. He then explained to Chizuru that he has enough reason to risk everything he is to protect her. Chizuru thought that it was because they're childhood friends, but when Iba implied there's more than that, Iba refused to answer her question. They finally met Kondo and Okita who have been looking for her, worried that she might've been snatched by Kazama's group. Motoyama also arrived, scolding Iba for running off on his own the moment he saw Chizuru. This piqued Okita's interest, but Iba avoid the question by leaving with Motoyama for New Year's greeting.
===Chapter 4===
On the day Takeda left the Shinsengumi, Chizuru saw him stealing some things from Sannan's room and chase after him. Iba visited the compound and notified by Inoue of the situation, so Iba immediately went to follow them. He arrived just in time before Takeda could forcefully take Chizuru with him after mistaking her for a Fury. Iba attacked Takeda, easily cornering him. Takeda revealed everything that he has learned about secret of the Shinsengumi, which included Chizuru's healing ability. Iba feigned ignorance, prompting Takeda to question why he would protect Chizuru whom he referred as a monster. To prove his point, Takeda tried to attack Chizuru. This enraged Iba so much that he cut off Takeda's right arm and threaten to kill him if he dares to harm Chizuru again. Seeing Takeda heavily injured and washed away into the river, Iba told Chizuru not to chase after Takeda since he won't last long anyway and all that matters is they manage to retrieve the stolen document and potion.
Iba then soothed Chizuru who was still shaken by being called a monster by Takeda earlier. He explained that he already knew about her healing ability since they were children when she showed it to him. Iba told Chizuru that she's not a monster, but a girl that he always want to protect. From this incident, Iba realized after he lost his composure against Takeda that protecting someone the way Shinsengumi does has the flipside to it. For Chizuru's sake, Iba determined that won't hesitate to fight, even if it means killing someone. Their conversation was interrupted by Shinpachi who came to help, and they returned to the compound.
Following the ambush by Kazama's group, the Shinsengumi decided to move their headquarters. Iba discussed with Kondo and Hijikata about Ryoma Sakamoto whom the Shinsengumi is interested in apprehending. Iba requested to be informed if the Shinsengumi learned of Ryoma's location for fear that there will be civil unrest if Ryoma is killed. From Yamazaki, they learned that Mimigawarigumi is targeting Ryoma, so Iba and Motoyama hastily made a move. Unfortunately, they were too late and Ryoma was killed. While Hijikata investigating the case, Iba escorted Chizuru back to the compound. Stopping at Kamo river, Iba recalled what the Satsuma and Chōshū have done while wondering how many vassals would come to the shogun's aid since the shogunate's influence has weaken. Chizuru assured Iba that the Shinsengumi will fight together with him, something that Iba agreed. Iba told Chizuru to leave Kyoto before it became a battlefield, but Chizuru stubbornly refused.
===Chapter 5===
Before the battle of Toba-Fushimi, Iba discussed with the Shinsengumi about the condition of the upcoming war against the Satsuma-Chosu alliance. Before departing, he admitted to Chizuru that he's still against leaving her with the Shinsengumi, but respect her wishes as he knew she would regret it if she leave her comrades now. He and Chizuru then promised each other that they will survive and meet again.
During the battle, Iba got separated from the his comrades while on his way to Osaka Castle. Coincidently, he met Chizuru on the way, who to his surprise was chased by her own father, Kodo, and Takeda who is still alive. Iba once again fights Takeda, but unlike before, he's proven to be no match for him as not only Takeda has became a Rasetsu, he also replaced his missing right arm with a demon arm. As a revenge for his previous humiliation, Takeda severely cuts Iba's left arm. Despite incapable of using his left arm, Iba still determines to fight to protect Chizuru. Fortunately, they are saved by Sen and Kimigiku, who takes them to Yase Village to tend Iba's injuries. After a whole night resting, Iba overhears Sen revealing to Chizuru that Iba won't be able to hold sword again because the injury in his left arm is too severe to be healed. For a moment, Iba was dispirited, but quickly recollected himself and resolved to continue fighting even without his left arm. 
 
Sen explains that Kodo and Takeda had stolen the right arm of a demon that was protected by her clan, which significantly strengthened Takeda's prowess. Knowing Iba doesn't stand a chance against Takeda even if he switch weapons and fighting style, Sen gives Iba an offer: become a Rasetsu and then replace his left arm with the other demon arm enshrined in her village in exchange Iba won't be able to interfere with human history. Chizuru is against the idea of Iba becoming a Fury, not wanting him to suffer the same fate as the other Shinsengumi members who became one. Iba privately talks with Chizuru and reminds her of how he promised that he will protect her no matter what happens and he is willing to do so even if it means abandoning his humanity. They are interrupted by Kodo and Takeda who once again breaks through the village. Having Chizuru's approval, Iba drinks the Water of Life and attached the demon left arm, successfully stopping Takeda and forces them to retreat.
===Final Chapter===
Iba and Chizuru goes to Osaka Castle where they are welcomed by the Shinsengumi and Motoyama who are relieved to find them alive. Before then, Iba requested Chizuru to keep the fact he became a Rasetsu a secret from the others for the time being. Hijikata reveals that Tokugawa Yoshinobu has abandoned them and left for Edo, meaning they must leave Osaka Castle and go to Edo as well, shocking Iba and Chizuru. Nevertheless, Iba decides to continue fighting on the Shogunate's behalf, citing to Chizuru that "a lord can only rule as well as his vassals can serve him", meaning that no matter how much Yoshinobu has strayed from his path, he must honor his work as an okuzume. Iba then requests Chizuru to stay with him for a bit longer before she leave, admitting that he actually doesn't want her to leave. He cheered up once Chizuru asks him to meet again in Edo.
== In Hakuōki: Edo Blossoms ==
===Chapter 1===
For a few months, Iba exchanged letters with Chizuru before finally meeting her again by visiting the new Shinsengumi headquarter. Iba laments that he is not seeing eye-to-eye with his higher-ups and colleagues who prefer to surrender and continuously stall a meeting requested by Hijikata. Wanting to distract him from his depression, Chizuru asks Iba to accompany her to her old house to look for clues about her father's research. After gaining Sannan's approval, they go to her house to look for any document concerning the Water of Life or Rasetsu. While looking for them, Iba suddenly makes advances towards Chizuru before finally realizing what he is doing and stops himself before he could kiss her. Iba quickly apologised for his sudden strange behaviour. He is then attack by his bloodlust, prompting Chizuru to offer her blood to sooth him before returning to the compound.
Following new orders from the shogunate, Hijikata entrusts Chizuru to Iba's care for a while. Iba and Motoyama welcomes Chizuru at the former's house. Iba is frustrated by the way the shogunate conducting their affair, a sentiment shared by Motoyama who tries to cheer him up by optimistically reminding that Hijikata believes there will be plenty of opportunities for the bakushin to join the war. This doesn't assure Iba in the slightest as he remembers that he's bound to his vow with Sen of never directly involving himself in human history. Chizuru changes the topic by offering to make Iba's meal in return for letting her stay with him. Motoyama encourages Iba to accept her offer while teasing them to think of it as having a honeymoon, much to their embarrassment.
The next day, Iba accepts Chizuru's suggestion to allow her manage all of his minutiae so that he won't overwork himself considering Fury can't handle sunlight. After dinner together with Motoyama, Iba received a letter that tells the Shinsengumi's forces were crushed by the Imperial Army at Kofu and currently regrouping their remaining forces at Aizu, so Hijikata requested Iba to keep Chizuru's stay a little longer until further notice. Iba, with Chizuru following him, ran off to the Hatamoto mansion where the Shinsengumi had lived recently, only to find it empty. Unable to hold his anger, Iba swings his sword wildly to vent out his anger at the shogunate for essentially sending the Shinsengumi to a war while knowing full well they would lose so that once the Edo Castle was finally surrendered to the Imperial Army, it would be done non-violently. Iba feels that he's partially responsible by being complicit, which Chizuru disagrees since the Shinsengumi would never blame him. Once returning to his house, Iba declines Motoyama's suggestion to fight in the Yugeki Unit as Iba is intent on keeping his promise with Sen despite his own desire to fight together with the Shinsengumi. Chizuru convinced him to go under pretext that he go as her bodyguard until she's reunited with the Shinsengumi, so he'll be able to join the Yugeki unit without directly interfering with human conflict.
===Chapter 2===
Arriving at Odawara Domain, Iba holds a negotiation with the ruling Okubo Family to give them support. After much deliberation, Iba informed his men that the Okubo finally agreed to help. The news delighted the whole unit, though Iba still laments the fact he can't fight together with them because he can't break the Demon Code. Their moment is short-lived when a soldier reported to Iba, forcing him to order them to head out to Hakone Sekkisho immediately because the Imperial Army is marching towards Edo. As Iba suspected, all soldiers and weapons at Hakone Sekkisho were nowhere to be found, meaning the Odawara Domain has betrayed them. Iba, Chizuru, and the Yugeki Unit who are with them goes to the remaining soldiers behind them, finding them in the middle of skirmish against the Odawara Domain forces and the Imperial Army. Unable to bear watching his comrades being slaughtered, Iba broke his vow and begin fighting against the enemies. Thanks to the demon arm, Iba easily deflect all the bullets coming at him.
Before Iba could attack, Takeda and his Fury forces arrived, annihilating the Odawara soldiers and feeds on their blood. To both Iba and Chizuru's shock, Takeda quickly gains the upper hand against Iba. Much to Iba's disgust, Takeda reveals that he feeds on human blood to make himself stronger. Iba is quickly incapacitated by Takeda, and his condition is worsened by gunshots from Takeda's Furies who are using silver bullets, preventing Iba's wound from healing. Iba tries to attack Takeda again after hearing his intention to mate with Chizuru, but is swiftly defeated. Before Takeda's Furies could kill Iba, Motoyama and the surviving Yugeki Unit soldiers attacks them, allowing Iba and Chizuru to escape by jumping from the cliff. By evening, they're reunited with Motoyama who escorted them to their ship.
===Chapter 3===
A month after escaping from Odawara, Iba is recuperating under Matsumoto's care. Even after a whole month, Iba's injuries doesn't show any sign of regenerating. Matsumoto deduces this was caused by the silver bullets used to shot him, which is a weakness to all Furies. Motoyama then reports that the remaining Yugeki Unit have joined Enomoto on his expedition to the North and there's a resistance faction called the Northern Alliance who stand up against the Imperial Army. However, after the Edo Castle was handed over, Imperial soldiers have been roaming all around Edo. To make things worse, Takeda and his Furies are using their authorities to commit murders on the civilians to feast on their blood. After Motoyama left, Iba admits to Chizuru that he's having the same amorous and carnal dream about her like Takeda did. This explains Iba's strange behaviour months ago at Yukimura Clinic. Not wanting to subject Chizuru to his insatiable demonic desire and no longer has any confidence in protecting her, Iba asks Chizuru to leave. Chizuru insists on staying, prompting Iba once again to be controlled by his demonic impulse, but able to recover due Chizuru's lack of resistance and ask her to leave him alone.
Sen and Kimigiku visits Iba, who apologised for breaking his vow. He then asks Sen to take Chizuru under her protection, explaining about how the demon arm is affecting him and Takeda. While Sen understands his concern, she can't do much since Takeda and Kodo once have broken into her village before. Returning Chizuru to the Shinsengumi is also the same since the Shinsengumi are practically cornered, and would have no chance should Takeda and his army attack. Sen then suggests for Chizuru to speak alone with Iba. She questions his reason for continuing to fight against the Imperials despite the odds, to which Iba answers because he's a bakushin himself and doesn't wish to tarnish the bakushin's name by refusing to fight for the shogunate. Sen points out that the extent of Chizuru's wish to be with him is similar to his loyalty to the bakushin. Alone with Chizuru, Iba is shocked by Chizuru's love confession. Feeling how much Chizuru believes in him despite the risk, Iba happily reciprocated Chizuru's feeling and they kissed. 
At the same time, Iba no longer hear voices in his head. When he told Sen about this, Sen deduces the demon arm has acknowledged Iba's emotional resolve in protecting Chizuru and will entirely bend to his will. Hearing the Shinsengumi and several Domains who are still loyal to the shogunate are still fighting, Iba and Chizuru decides to go to Ezo.
===Chapter 4===
Arriving at Ezo, Iba and Chizuru meets the remaining Shinsengumi warriors. They are saddened by the news of their friends' death, which includes Kondo and Okita, and how Harada and Shinpachi left the Shinsengumi due to differing opinions. Iba then speaks privately with Hijikata and Chizuru, revealing to him how he became a Fury, receiving a demon arm, and that Takeda is targeting Chizuru. Seeing Iba and Chizuru's mutual love for each other, Hijikata gives them his blessing. Iba also adds that he can't fight together with them due to the Demon Code after receiving his new left arm. Hijikata accepts Iba's decision and tells him to hold onto their memories in return. Hijikata also warns him not to use Fury power recklessly since it'll shorten his lifespan. Iba promises that Takeda would be the only person he'll use his Fury power against. Motoyama ends their conversation, inviting them to a party. After the party, Iba invites Chizuru to spend a night his room. While laying together on his bed, Iba senses Chizuru tearfully remembering their deceased friends and comforts her.
Months later, Iba and Chizuru received a word that the Imperial Army has reached the Miyako Bay, so Hijikata leads an attack on their ships. Unfortunately, the mission ended in a failure with many casualties, Nomura included. Soon, the Imperial Armies breached through Ezo. Iba keeps his promise of not fighting directly together with the Shinsengumi, but instead is assigned to medical duties along with Chizuru. When Chizuru admits that she now beginning to understand why people fought a losing war, Iba confirms that even though surrender would save countless lives, doing so would kill the very principle they believe in and betrayal to those who willingly fought to the death. When Chizuru questions if he would fight alongside them if he could, Iba admits part of him wants to, but he has chosen the path to protect her and defeat Takeda, and nothing would change that. At June, the Imperial Army finally reached Goryokaku. Souma reveals that Hijikata and Motoyama have been killed and Hijikata appointed Souma as the next chief. Shimada then reports that Takeda and his Furies have been sighted. Iba and Chizuru departs to the forest where they finally confront Takeda. Having full control of his demon arm, Iba easily overpowers Takeda. In desperation, Takeda uses Chizuru as a meat shield. Iba is hesitant for a moment until Chizuru encouraged him. Iba stabs through Takeda's heart without injuring Chizuru, finally killing his nemesis.
===Final Chapter===
Right after killing Takeda, Chizuru falls into a coma. Iba takes her to a secluded location and carries her while walking around a meadow. He tells her about how the blue sky reminds him of the Shinsengumi haori when Chizuru finally awakes. He assures her that Takeda is dead and no one would stand in the way of their happiness. His bloodlust has disappeared, but his demon arm has permanently became part of him, meaning he must apologize to Sen because he can't return it like he originally intended to do. Since they're now lovers, Iba asks Chizuru to call him by his first name, Hachiro, which Chizuru does. Iba expresses his happiness that now the war is over, they can live together in peace.
==In other routes==
===Hijikata's route===
Iba appears in Chapter 1 to warn Hijikata that the shogunate official he had planned on meeting had canceled, prompting Hijikata to rush off to see the bakushin and attempt to change his mind.
By Chapter 5, he has been appointed as Infantry Head of the Yugeki Unit. However, his left hand has been injured in combat against the Imperial Army. He praises the Shinsengumi as the epitome of true samurai and offers his unconditional support to Hijikata and Chizuru.
In the Final Chapter, Iba is revealed to have taken his own life prior to the battle at Goryokaku using a bottle of morphine given to him by Enomoto Takeaki after he was fatally injured.
===Souma's route===
Iba appears in Chapter 4, eavesdropping the conversation between Hijikata, Souma, and Chizuru. Learning Souma and Chizuru have started a relationship, Iba accepted the pair, but warn Souma that if he mistreats Chizuru, there will be hell to pay. The next day, Iba spread a rumour about Souma and Chizuru often having intimate moments as a way to tease Souma. When Souma revealed that he and Chizuru have not yet kissed despite being in a relationship, Iba flirted with Chizuru, which is quickly stopped by Souma. In Souma's DLC, during a party, Iba subtly bullied Souma by pouring a strong liquor for him. Despite this, Souma doesn't hold a grudge against Iba as he understands Iba's feeling since they both love Chizuru.
==In Hakuōki: Tsukikage no Shou==
3 years after the Shinsengumi's defeat, Chizuru and Hachirou live in a house in Ezo, while officially both of them died during the war. Hachirou's demon hand has slowly transformed back into a human one. Since Chizuru fell into a deep slumber after the battle between Iba and Takeda, Hachirou keeps worrying over her well-being. One day, they receive a letter from Sen that informs them of the amnesty for all those who fought for the Bakufu. Hachirou reveals to Chizuru that right before they escaped Enomoto entrusted him with hidden funds to help former allies in case of need, so now that the old Bakufu army has been pardoned Hachirou intends to go back to Kyoto and Edo in order to help his former comrades. Before doing so, he places a wedding veil on top of Chizuru's head and proposes to her. She cries from happiness and agrees, asking to join him on his new adventure as his wife.
== Trivia ==
* Iba has a weakness for sweets, particularly castella.
*In some Drama CDs in which he appears, Iba has a rivalry with Kazama due to their respective feeling for Chizuru.
Category:Characters
Category:Main
Category:Shinsengumi
Category:Rasetsu
Category:Visual Novel