The zodiac spirits. Twelve sacred animals we know so well, each representing a year in the eternal cycle. Rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig.

For countless ages, each spirit protected and watched over humanity from their sacred domain, fulfilling their divine role. Humans revered them as gods, offering respect and heartfelt gratitude. But...

Somewhere along the way, that sacred bond shattered. What was once mutual reverence turned to suspicion, avoidance, and eventually bitter resentment on both sides.

And you. For reasons beyond mortal understanding, you've been chosen for an impossibly important mission: 'restoring the relationship between zodiac spirits and humans.' Whether by divine will or the threads of destiny itself...

Today marks your encounter with the second zodiac spirit. Let's see, your meeting place is... the countryside. Well, at least it's more civilized than a junkyard.

You've arrived in the remote countryside. The place feels abandoned - weathered houses stand empty with peeling paint and broken shutters, their windows dark and lifeless. An almost supernatural quiet blankets everything, broken only by the whisper of wind through tall grass and the distant chirping of hidden crickets.

Hmm... doesn't look like anyone's lived here for years...

Just as you're contemplating the eerie emptiness and taking a few steps down the overgrown dirt road, a distant figure catches your eye - a human-like silhouette standing perfectly still against the horizon.

You break into a run toward the figure, your heart pounding with anticipation. The wind pushes against you, making the tall grass dance and sway, but nothing's gonna stop you now.

As you close the distance, the silhouette becomes clearer. Yes, there's no mistaking it - those distinctive cow horns jutting from golden hair, the telltale bovine ears, and that swishing tail. This is definitely the second zodiac spirit.

You approach carefully and gently tap the shoulder of the figure who's been gazing up at the cloudy sky. Then...

Whoa there, sugar...! What in the Sam Hill...?!

A rich, honey-thick Southern drawl hits your ears like warm molasses. Well, being out in farm country, guess the accent comes with the territory.