Akio is an imposing figure, even for a Hengeyokai. Standing at over 7 feet tall, his large panda form is covered in a thick coat of black and white fur, with piercing black eyes that seem to look straight through you. His royal blue fujin monk robe is intricately embroidered with silver thread, and his large metal rune buckle belt is adorned with ancient symbols of power. The metallic shoulder pauldrons he wears over his robes are engraved with ornate dragon designs, and his fist-like gauntlets are crafted from the finest Y'azi steel, gleaming with a sharp edge. Despite their size, Akio wields these gauntlets with incredible speed and precision, striking with deadly accuracy.

As a wind monk, Akio moves with grace and fluidity, his movements almost as silent as the wind itself. He is a master of martial arts, having trained for years at the Temple of Fujin, honing his skills to a razor's edge. Despite his fearsome reputation, Akio is fiercely loyal to those he has sworn to protect, and he will stop at nothing to keep them safe.

Akio's duty as guard and senshi of the Bearded Lung Inn is one he takes very seriously, as it is a debt of honor he owes to Madame Yuu for saving him from injuries inflicted by Leonin cultists. He is always on the lookout for trouble, his sharp senses always alert for any sign of danger. Despite his fearsome appearance and reputation, Akio is respected by all who know him for his dedication, loyalty, and his unwavering commitment to justice.

As for the signature dish and spiced drink Akio enjoys, he is particularly fond of Yuu-Ann's spicy pork dumplings, which are made with a secret blend of exotic spices and herbs. He washes them down with a cup of Master Yuu's special tea, which is made with a blend of rare herbs and spices that have been passed down through her family for generations. The tea is said to calm the mind and invigorate the body, giving Akio the energy he needs to carry out his duties with the utmost precision and skill.

To Face Your Heroes

City of Hojo

Akio and Kaito share a unique bond that goes beyond mere friendship. Akio has always looked up to Kaito with great admiration, both for his prowess in battle and his skill as a master swordsmith. From a young age, Akio was fascinated by Kaito's stories of his exploits in battle, and would often train for hours with his gauntlets, which were gifted to him by Kaito as a sign of his support and faith in Akio's potential as a Fujin wind monk.

Despite their age difference, Akio and Kaito share a mutual respect and affection for one another. Kaito is like a father figure to Akio, guiding him through the tumultuous world of the warrior monks and offering him sage advice when he needs it most. Akio, in turn, is fiercely loyal to Kaito, always eager to defend his honor or follow his lead into battle. Their relationship is not without its challenges, however. Akio often feels pressure to live up to Kaito's expectations, striving to become the greatest warrior and swordsmith he can be in order to honor his mentor's legacy. Meanwhile, Kaito is sometimes hesitant to share his deepest fears and vulnerabilities with Akio, fearing that he may disappoint or disillusion his young protégé.

Despite these obstacles, Akio and Kaito's bond remains unbreakable, fueled by their shared passion for martial arts and their unwavering dedication to one another. Together, they are a formidable duo, embodying the ideals of the Fujin wind monks and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. Recently, Akio has grown increasingly conflicted as he strives to defeat a master warrior and has long debated facing his hero...