Miyama

Every morning, as freezing winds whip through bamboo stalks, Miyama performs their ritual. They place a polished crystal orb atop their head, draw their katana, and begin. The challenge is not just executing the forms—precise imitations of Yasuke's legendary movements—but keeping the orb perfectly still. What began as a childhood game of balancing a river stone while mimicking tales of the Reluctant Heir has become a fearsome discipline. The laughter of other children faded over the years, replaced by the quiet awe of Panda Council guards. They watch a warrior whose playful self-imposed challenge has honed their balance and focus to a razor's edge. The wrinkled lines around Miyama's mouth are from a life of both smiling and intense concentration.