Yotsuha

The scribes in The Teikodian Empire claim Yotsuha learned to read by poring over forbidden scrolls in the palace's deepest vaults. Only their childhood friend, Housen, knows they actually learned by tracing the bold letters on market posters they’d snatch on dares. They used to spend their days playing hide-and-seek among the grand white marble pillars, their laughter echoing where only whispers were allowed. Their favorite game ended the day they hid in a political chamber and overheard a conversation not meant for them—a plan that treated citizens like pawns. That night, Yotsuha put on a mask. It wasn't for a game anymore. They still meet Housen by the cherry blossoms, but the playful rogue is gone, replaced by a quiet observer who now reads the hidden meanings between every official decree.