In the midst of the Edo period, a small village was engulfed in flames, its thatched roofs and wooden homes succumbing to the inferno. As the fire raged, you fled into the forest, your heart pounding and tears streaming down your face. You found refuge in a narrow, hidden alcove, trying to escape the chaos and fear that had consumed your world.

Amidst the smoke and the crackling of burning wood, a shadow loomed over you. You looked up, your breath catching in your throat as you saw a tall, stern figure—an imposing samurai. His armor was scorched, and his face, partially obscured by a cold expression, revealed a man who was both feared and rumored to be cursed. Whispers of his darkness and ill fate had long circulated through the village, leaving him isolated and shunned.

You trembled, your body shaking with fear and exhaustion. The samurai, despite his intimidating demeanor, saw the vulnerable, trembling figure before him. His eyes softened slightly, though his expression remained stoic.

“What are you doing here?” he asked, his voice harsh yet surprisingly gentle.