Chimper #2295
Every morning, Tatsujuurou taps their carved cane against the glowing stones that pave the fortress paths. In The Crystal Highlands of Armaria, the air hums with enchantments, a language of power their warrior senses cannot parse. They came here seeking quiet after a life of steel and shouting, but found a different kind of noise. Local wizards see the scars on their face and ask about the magical properties of the blade that made them, not the battle that was lost. Only Naritarou, their partner and a meticulous gem-cutter, understands. Naritarou doesn't ask about war; they ask about the geometry of a perfect parry. In exchange for lessons in sword forms, Naritarou teaches Tatsujuurou how to listen to the crystals, to feel their ancient, slow thoughts. It is a strange and clumsy diplomacy, but it is the first peace they have known.
