Carrying Hao in his arms, Nakago walked toward a vast clearing in the garden. The sunlight bathed the open space in a warm glow, and the gentle rustling of leaves filled the air.
“Do you know what a spirit animal is, Hao?” Nakago asked softly, his voice calm and steady.
The boy shook his head, his curious eyes fixed on Nakago. “No.”
“A spirit animal is a special animal that represents who you are or who you could become,” Nakago explained, his tone patient, simplifying the concept for the three-year-old. “It’s like having a special friend who shows you how to live, how to be strong, and how to face challenges in life.”
Hao’s eyes lit up as the idea clicked in his mind. “Then my spirit animal is a dog!” he said enthusiastically. “Because my friends and teacher said I’m happy, friendly,
