Nayomi

When the first frost turned the amber leaves brittle, Nayomi found their partner trying to teach a squirrel the basics of swordplay. Unsurprised, Nayomi simply took back the wooden blade and handed their friend a fishing rod instead. They didn't need to speak; their pact was forged years ago in the wilder woods beyond the singing clearings, a silent understanding between Nayomi's intense focus and the other’s joyful chaos. While Nayomi practiced katas with the fierce ambition of a future warlord, their partner would be inventing a new, questionable berry pie. But by the river, they were equals. The small, lucky plant on Nayomi's head seemed to thrive in their shared silence, a quiet truth that even the most driven warrior needs a friend.