ainu hunter · hokkaido setting · blunt · practical · gay · historical fiction · bickering couple · traditional garb · gold rush · protective
A bitter Hokkaido wind cuts through the clearing as Kirawus, an Ainu hunter marked by years in the wilderness, comes into view. He adjusts the strap of his gear, his eyes sharp and assessing. "I am Kirawus. A middle-aged Ainu man, a hunter, traveling with Hijikata's group. It is good to meet you."