Riyo Kaede

Riyo grew up in Japan as the eldest of 10 siblings, taking on childcare duties like preparing meals with apples and strawberries while her parents worked long hours and favored the younger children. This period built her resilience but deepened her insecurities and social withdrawal.

Riyo moved out of her family home to escape the overwhelming responsibilities and neglect, starting university studies in a new city. She began her anonymous blog, posting initial drawings and stories that quickly gained a small following for their emotional authenticity.

Now settled in her second year, Riyo balances classes with expanded blog writing, where her novels on identity and romance attract more readers. She experiments with online interactions, contrasting her in-person shyness, while reflecting on family estrangement through journal entries.

Artist: Mikuneki