Kotose

The elders in The Heart of the Forest have a saying: “A quiet spirit can hear the world turn.” Kotose once embodied that quiet. They were a guardian whose tranquility was their greatest strength, channeling the vibrant life-magic of Aki to mend broken branches and soothe frightened creatures. Their combat pole was used more often as a walking staff on long, peaceful patrols beneath the amber-leaved canopy. But that was before the mercenaries came, cloaked in promises of trade, leaving a trail of fire and betrayal. The scars they carved across Kotose’s face were a harsh lesson. These days, their spirit is still quiet, but it is the focused silence of a hunter. Their squinting eyes no longer watch for beauty; they watch for threats.