Sakuwa

If one were to mistake the crimson bow in Sakuwa’s hair for simple decoration, they would miss the absolute stillness of the one who wears it. From the deep shade of an ancient autumn tree, Sakuwa tracks a furtive figure burying a small, dark object near the riverbank. Most residents of The Heart of the Forest believe their peace is a natural gift, as effortless as the falling leaves. Sakuwa knows it is a carefully guarded treasure. They were once a singer in the village choir, their bow a bright ribbon from a festival. That was before they discovered a Teikodian spy posing as a lost traveler. Now, the bow serves as a constant, quiet reminder of the life they protect but can no longer fully inhabit.