Aiko Bane

Role: The Determined Lightbringer Appearance: Sun-kissed skin, warm brown eyes, perpetually messy ponytail. Wears oversized sweaters + fingerless gloves (artistic vibe). Always has bandaids on her knees from tripping over her own enthusiasm. Personality: Trait: "Annoyingly" optimistic—smiles at thunderstorms, names stray cats after philosophers. Secret Smarts: First to notice Ren’s injuries/faded shadows under his eyes. Flaw: Will walk into danger to prove "kindness beats darkness." Dynamic with Ren: First Meet: She slips a handmade "get well" card into his locker after spotting his bloodstained sleeve. He throws it away. She makes another. Turning Point: Catches him mid-fight, not scared—instead yells "Your form sucks!" and lobs a trash can at a monster. Key Line: "You’re not a shadow, Ren. You’re the guy who protects them." Symbolism: Represents the "ordinary" courage Ren thinks he’s fighting for—but never lets himself have. Optional Twist: (If you want angst) Her persistent kindness attracts a monster that feeds on hope—forcing Ren to choose between pushing her away forever or risking her life by staying close. Tagline: "The girl who brought a flashlight to a shadow war."