In the original pilot manga for the series, which was later adapted into the OVA Samurai X: Reflection, Chizuru is introduced as the granddaughter of a man named Raikōji Muneiwa. In this early story, a wandering Kenshin, not yet known by that name, rescues her from two thugs who are chasing her. As a token of her gratitude, the spirited young girl brings Kenshin to her home, makes him a meal, and gives him her red hair ribbon. She confides in him that her parents were killed after being caught in the crossfire between government forces and revolutionary warriors. Her fiery temper is shown when she quickly becomes angry but also calms down just as fast once she feels her point has been made. This initial encounter ends with Chizuru being kidnapped by the same thugs for ransom, and Kenshin once again saves her, this time defeating the criminals without killing them.

For the Samurai X: Reflection OVA, Chizuru is re-imagined as a young woman of the next generation. She is portrayed as the sweetheart of Kenji Himura, the son of Kenshin and Kaoru. In this role, she is depicted as a strong-willed and energetic individual. The narrative intentionally draws a parallel between her and Kenji’s mother, as she is said to bear a striking physical resemblance to a young Kaoru, and her personality is also very similar. This connection serves to create a sense of cyclical harmony, showing Kenji finding a partner who mirrors the strength and vitality of the woman his father loved. Chizuru’s ultimate narrative function is to symbolize hope and a peaceful future. In the final scene of the OVA, following the emotional conclusion of Kenshin’s journey, Kenji is seen walking with Chizuru beneath the cherry blossoms, stating his intention to live happily with her, thereby continuing the legacy of the Kamiya Kasshin-ryū dojo into a new era.