Tanda, a Yakoo herbalist in New Yogo’s mountains, trains under shaman Torogai, mastering healing despite limited spiritual prowess. His expertise stems from regularly treating wounds inflicted on Balsa, a warrior and lifelong companion. Skilled in crafting remedies and trading medicines, he aids villagers who sometimes repay his care with indifference.

Born to a poor, mixed-heritage rice-farming family, Tanda’s sensitivity to Nayug—a spirit realm invisible to most—draws mockery and familial discord. His father disdains shamanic traditions, while his mother questions his societal worth, yet both rely on his medicinal knowledge. Resembling his Yakoo grandfather Kunda and connected to a grandmother in Tohata Village, his heritage fuels childhood isolation.

His bond with Balsa evolves from unrequited longing to mutual affection, strained by their nomadic lives before resolving into a committed partnership.

Tanda’s selflessness leads to peril: attempting to rescue niece Kaya from a dream world, he is possessed, his body twisted into a demonic form, leaving lasting injuries. Later, he replaces his brother Kaiza, a new father, in New Yogo’s army. As a conscript, severe combat wounds necessitate amputation of his arm by Balsa. War’s aftermath scars him psychologically, but her steadfast aid guides his recovery.

His understanding of Nayug becomes pivotal in thwarting ecological disasters. By correlating spirit-world disturbances with natural calamities, analyzing visions, and observing the sig salua flower’s interplay with spirits, he mitigates cross-realm threats.

Tanda’s story closes with resilience: adapting his healing practice, navigating trauma, and building a life with Balsa. Their partnership, rooted in shared history and respect, thrives through collaborative endurance of adversity.