Shibasaburou

The rich scent of pork broth and boiling noodles often announced Shibasaburou's arrival before they were even seen. They were a diligent trainee in The Heart of the Forest, but their dedication to sword practice was matched only by their devotion to a perfect bowl of ramen. One afternoon, lost in the savory bliss of their meal, they failed to notice Aki watching from the treeline. The forest spirit, charmed by such simple, honest delight, offered a quiet blessing of good fortune. Startled by the sudden warmth that bloomed in their chest, Shibasaburou fumbled, and the entire bowl tumbled onto their head. The locals gasped, but Shibasaburou just laughed. The noodles, touched by Aki's magic, never fell off. They wear the bowl like a helmet now, a charming, messy crown and a story they love to tell.