Monariza

The faint scent of caramelized sugar clings to Monariza’s carved cane, a sweet smell that promises comfort and joy. The perpetually happy locals of The Heart of the Forest believe them to be a kindred spirit, a wanderer spreading delight. They are profoundly mistaken. Monariza trusts nothing and no one. The cake is a disguise. The poker face is a shield. They believe every friendly gesture is a prelude to a trap. This worldview was only cemented the day they found Hisahito caught in a poacher’s snare. Annoyed by the amateurishness of the trap, Monariza freed them, fully expecting an ambush. Instead, Hisahito offered them half their water skin. This simple kindness was so baffling it only deepened Monariza's suspicion. What are they after?