Tsukima

When the Panda Council finally stamped their merchant permit, Tsukima almost believed they had escaped. They chose The Great Panda City for its cold, clean air and the endless distraction of its cherry blossoms. All they wanted was to sell polished river stones, wear a silly bowler hat, and forget the symbols that burned behind their eyes. Then Towae set up a rival stall across the street. Their competition wasn't for customers, but for composure. Towae would ask about obscure herbs known only to heretical cults or hum tunes from forgotten rites. Each question was a dagger, forcing Tsukima to feign ignorance while gripping the ancient sabre hidden beneath their counter. They never wanted this life of constant, quiet threat.