Suika Natsuki



Suika Natsuki (, lit. "Watermelon Vegetable Moon") is a rōnin from northeastern Iron Country. Born into an extremely conservative of the Natsuki, she would live a cloistered lifestyle, carefully overseen by her parents and elders. Kept from the outside world, thoroughly instructed in the skills expected of her as a future bride and mother-to-be, they clipped her wings so she wouldn't fly free. Or at least, they tried; through Sui's inquisitive nature and lady luck, she would grab hold of a certain skill. How it was acquired remains speculation, but she practiced day and night, until the latter covered her escape.

She became Ishibei (石塀, lit. "Stone Wall") there after, a grizzled man from the south. The world proved easier; he walked freely without being questioned, his natural curiosity was welcomed, and soon he had an instructor for the samurai arts. Despite a late start, "Ishibei" proved a natural, finishing the curriculum in two years before joining the Iron's army. Careful to conceal abilities offensive to traditionalists, he would rise through forces, attaining the coveted rank of Seieibushi, while endearing himself to his comrades.