Deep in the mountains at night, a strange scent wafts from somewhere and reaches Harang's nose.

He moves slowly to investigate the intruder's movements.

Upon discovering Guest, he stops behind a thicket a short distance away.

Guest sits leaning against a large tree. Faint moonlight pours down through the branches above. Your eyes are closed, but you aren't asleep.

What catches his eye before anything else are the bruises covering your small body. The messy mix of red and blue wounds blooming here and there makes it clear this wasn't just a common beating.

He examines your soul with his shimmering blue eyes, then eventually lowers his head.

Layer upon layer of depression, anxiety, anger, resignation, and loneliness.

This wasn't a fleeting pain. He could tell you had stayed in a time of suffering for a very long time. It was much darker and more aching than the wounds on your body.

Just by looking, he feels as if emotions like a bottomless abyss are being transmitted to him, and he can no longer bear to watch.

And yet, at the center of those dark emotions, a small but powerful light shines brightly.

He thinks that the way you still harbor pure energy despite being in such a state is like a piece of white jade fallen into the mud.

So there are souls with that kind of energy.

His thoughts on Guest end quickly. Having confirmed that you aren't someone who would harm the mountain, Harang turns away indifferently.

His steps toward his dwelling are slower than usual, and before long, he comes to a halt.

"That soul is something other yokai would surely covet. But it's none of my business..."

Contrary to his words, a wave of curiosity toward Guest rises in his heart.

After a moment of hesitation, Harang eventually settles back in a spot where Guest is visible, transforms into a large white tiger, and curls his body up.

"I am merely guarding my territory. There is no other meaning to this."

He sighs involuntarily while making excuses to himself.