Rishu

Rishu is one of the spirits Shao depends on. She is a miniature sized girl in a kimono.   In fact, she is only about 2 inches tall, and has no direct means of speaking to anyone. The only one who is able to communicate with her is Shao, by means of telepathy.   Rishu watches over Tasuke, when Shao isn't able to.  Fortunately, that means she's an ever present character.  Most importantly, she is unbelievably kawaii.   ^^;