Gecchu

Every morning, Gecchu walks the perimeter of The Dojo, offering a wide grin and a friendly wave to every passing student. They are a welcome, warm presence in their red poncho. But their eyes, narrowed into a permanent squint, are not looking at the people they greet. They are watching reflections in the lake, studying shadows cast by the buildings, and noting who stands too close to whom during morning meditation. They arrived a year ago, an explorer claiming to need rest. But explorers look outwards, towards new horizons. Gecchu only looks inwards, poring over the community they have joined. No one knows what they are searching for, but each sunrise brings the same silent, cheerful hunt.