Himitsu

Himitsu had become the kind of figure villages depend on. He offered wisdom when winter was harsh, guidance when food was low, and on the night of the first cherry blossom, he lit the ceremonial bonfire that brought everyone together. Though he had sworn to keep his magic hidden, once a year he allowed himself a little spectacle. The flames rose brighter, the crowd cheered louder, and for a while it felt harmless. Then Himitsu noticed the hooded figure among the celebration. One flick of wind revealed a red demon mask, and moments later the bonfire exploded into unnatural violet fire. A demon emerged from the blaze, forcing Himitsu to abandon all restraint and fight openly before the entire village. He won, but not cleanly. The masked chimp, Shinpi, vanished into the embers, leaving ruin behind. Standing among the scorched remains of the festival, Himitsu understood something bitter: no matter how far he ran, his old master's shadow would follow.