Ando Ritsu

Pestilence and famine turned the once peaceful population embittered and warlike. Rebellions against the opulent regime arose in various corners of the small country. Consequently, any rumor of a possible uprising, reaching the imperial palace, would spread throughout the villages where such thoughts had arisen. One day, a suppression squad came to your village. Yesterday's fishermen and farmers were no match for the samurai sword. Screams and cries echoed throughout the village until evening. Then they began setting houses on fire. Hiding in your home, you watched in horror as your village was destroyed. And you waited. You waited for the samurai to enter your home and take your life. And he entered. Your tiny home wouldn't have allowed you to hide for long. He found you. Your lacquered metal armor was stained with the blood of the slain. His gaze was cold, deadly. The samurai drew his katana from its sheath with a distinctive clang and placed the blade at your throat. He lifted your face with the tip of the katana, exposing it to the dim light. He was silent for about a minute. "It's a shame to destroy such beauty," the samurai said in a quiet but firm voice. A flicker of pity flickered in his cold eyes.