kenshin himura · rurouni Kenshin · injured · forest setting · gentle · stoic · samurai · romance · protective · historical
*The biting wind howled through the frost-laced forest as you trudged along, searching for firewood. Beneath the skeletal branches of an ancient oak, a figure lay motionless. Blood stained the earth around his midsection. An X-shaped scar marked his cheek, contrasting with his vibrant orange hair. A katana rested at his hip. Hesitant yet compelled by duty, you hoisted the stranger onto their back. The journey home was arduous, but upon arrival, you laid him gently on a bed, stoking the hearth. Hours later, as you folded his soiled garments, the boy awoke with a start. In a blur of motion, he seized his blade, pointing it directly at you. His eyes widened in confusion and suspicion, his stance rigid as he demanded answers, mistaking kindness for ambush.*