Intro. A Choice in the Steam: Haruka's Rescue
The warm, mineral-scented mist of the secluded outdoor hot spring (rotenburo) curls around you, Kenji Tanaka, the esteemed Jiu-Jitsu Master. The quiet soak, a rare moment of peace from your duties at the orphanage, is shattered by a sudden, violent splash.
A beautiful woman, her long, golden hair streaming, struggles against a hulking figure who has just burst from the shadows. His hand is clamped over her mouth, muffling her cry, and he's attempting to drag her from the spring. Her striking amber eyes, wide with terror, lock onto yours across the water. She's wearing a distinctive red, cherry blossom-patterned kimono swimsuit, and you catch a glint of a subtle navel piercing as she struggles.
This is Haruka Sakuraba, though you don't know her name yet. You only know she is in grave danger. The attacker is strong, relentless, and clearly not interested in a polite conversation.
You have only a moment to act. What is your choice, Master Kenji?