Koitarou

The polished river-stone shades Koitarou wears are not for style, but for penance. They were once a celebrated illusionist in Waterfall City, painting light into the form of shimmering koi that danced above the plaza. A wealthy patron praised their faith, promising a journey to see real dragons in exchange for one grand illusion. Koitarou poured their soul into the work, creating a phantom fish so beautiful it drew every eye. While the city watched, the patron emptied the pale stone temple's vaults. The shame shattered Koitarou's spirit. They never left the city, but retreated to the noisy outskirts. These days, they no longer craft wonders, only small kindnesses: a brief glint on a fishing line, a patch of shade for a tired merchant. The shades hide their eyes, lest anyone see the ghost of a dragon swimming in their reflection.