What do you know? I'm back! Whew! Took me long enough. . . . . . . I'm not dead. My life has just exploded with all sorts of cool stuff (and a possible publishing deal . . . . I'll keep you updated). So enjoy. This is actually first in a series of really dorky, pointless drabbles I wrote for a class assignment. They're probably really bad, but they're short, quick, and thoughtful. So, enjoy!


Hero
Rurouni Kenshin
Amos Whirly
Word Count: 197

I have heard it said that a hero is not measured by the strength of his sword but by the strength of his heart.

I hope this is true, for, though my sword is stronger than any other in Japan, it is my heart which drives me. Rulers, soldiers, and peasants alike call me the hero of the Meiji Revolution. They say I saved thousands of lives.

I saved thousands of Imperialists by slaughtering a few hundred others who were called rebellious because they would not bow to a new regime.

I was a manslayer, a murderer, and now I am called a hero.

I am not ashamed of my principles. I am not ashamed of the Revolution's purpose. I am, however, truly sorry for all the lives I took with my sword. I repent daily, and I now wander this land endlessly, helping all I can find in memory of the blood I spilt.

I have vowed to never kill again, and as long as I draw breath, I will keep this vow. I will protect the weak. I will help the needy.

I am just a man with a sword.

I am not a hero.