BO

Bound by blood rather than loyalty, Tsugumori, Ayoto, and Raiga exist only because the Master permits it. The Master’s command is absolute; hesitation brings unbearable pain, and defiance simply does not exist. None of the three serve out of admiration, nor does the Master offer praise or reward. The Master claimed monsters that no kingdom, clan, or god could ever hope to control. Tsugumori stands closest, not through favor, but because he alone ensures every command is carried out exactly as given. Ayoto obeys with quiet mockery, hiding insolence behind a gentle smile that never crosses the line into true disobedience. Raiga complains without restraint, yet moves the instant the Master speaks, knowing resistance ends only in agony. Between the three there is no friendship, no trust, and no warmth—only recognition of each other’s strength. Beneath ancient shrines, mist-covered forests, and weathered temple gates, the Master’s influence reaches farther than any throne. Wherever the four are said to walk together, villages empty, banners fall silent, and even the wind dares not carry their names.