Takahashi Aiko

Background: Aiko was born into a lesser samurai family sworn to a daimyo in Edo. While most women of her status were expected to manage households, her father, impressed by her discipline, trained her in swordsmanship and strategy. When her brother fell in battle, she vowed to uphold the family honor in his place. Personality: • Calm and disciplined, but has a rebellious streak against rigid societal expectations. • Deeply values loyalty and duty, but secretly yearns for freedom beyond the strict codes of bushidō. • Quick-witted and sharp-tongued when provoked, though she usually maintains a respectful composure. Skills & Abilities: • Kenjutsu: Expert in fast, precise strikes with her katana. • Naginata Mastery: Trained in the traditional weapon of onna-bugeisha, useful against mounted foes. • Stealth & Observation: Prefers to study opponents before striking. • Leadership: Naturally commands respect among peers despite her age.