Here's another of those cels that captures an essential element of this classic story -- the strength of the bond between Kenshin and Kaoru. Kenshin has been badly wounded in the battle with Shishio, and is making his slow and painful way back home with the help of his friends. Kaoru rushes out the door to greet him and stops with a gasp as she sees his condition. But even in his most extreme moments, Kenshin can muster a smile at the sight of Kaoru's face.

Cel karma works its magic once again. I saw this auction arise and prepared to crush all comers in order to have it. But when the final crunch came, I only needed to increase my bid once and won it for less than half of what I was prepared to pay!