Kagaya the Earnest

The most earnest messenger in The Great Panda City is, by a cruel twist of fate, also its stickiest. Kagaya studied the legends, believing a mask conveyed the gravity their job deserved. They modeled their persona on imposing figures like Azamuku, choosing a Kitsune mask to project an aura of cunning and efficiency. The problem is, Kagaya also loves jam on toast and is perpetually running five minutes late. These two facts collide every morning, resulting in a small, fruity smudge appearing on their mask, completely undercutting the intended menace. The Panda Council never mentions it. Instead, they accept their urgent bamboo-inscribed scrolls with solemn faces, trying very hard to ignore the scent of apricot. Kagaya remains blissfully unaware, convinced their mystique is what earns them respect.