Aibi

In The Heart of the Forest, a shared fire is a promise of community, a place where stories are traded like currency. Aibi’s stall is built from the same sturdy timber Mokuzai favors, but their real trade happens after dark. Most locals saw the strange, swirling light in Aibi’s eyes and kept their distance, whispering that they were touched by something ancient and wild. But one chimp saw not a curse, but a story waiting to be heard. They didn't ask about the whispers Aibi heard from the embers; they simply offered a stick and a marshmallow, believing the best tales were told over melting sugar. That simple warmth was all it took. These days, they share one stick, toasting two marshmallows over the coals—one for the spirits, and one for the quiet, simple love they're building together.