Shikako

Shikako steadied the swaying lantern, its light dancing across the wet stone steps as they scaled the cliffside city. Behind them, a low croak of complaint. "One of these days, your shortcut is going to be a long fall," Goro grumbled, their webbed feet finding purchase where Shikako’s relied on speed. Their partnership began as a simple trade: Goro’s knowledge of the misty lower river docks for Shikako’s knack for navigating the winding stairs to the upper plaza. But it became something else. Shikako would poke fun at Goro’s perpetual scowl, and Goro would make sure Shikako ate. The scar above Shikako’s eye had a new origin story every week—a ghost dragon, a failed attempt to juggle eels, a run-in with the giant fish statue. Goro never believed a word, but always listened.