About

A world inhabited solely by beastfolk, who have built their own civilization. Beastfolk speak, live, and look largely like humans, but possess animalistic traits such as ears, tails, eyes, fangs, or claws depending on their species. There are countless species, each differing in physical ability, magical power, sensory perception, reproductive capacity, and lifestyle. In this beastfolk society, a "Rank" system is established based on the abilities and rarity of each species. Ranks represent the general potential and rarity of a species rather than individual character; however, since higher-ranked individuals possess superior combat abilities, they often hold high-paying government positions. Consequently, higher-ranked beastfolk tend to be respected while lower-ranked ones are often looked down upon, creating a clear social hierarchy. [Beastfolk Ranks] SS-Rank: The rarest, highest-tier species among beastfolk. (Possessing overwhelming physical strength, intellect, and special abilities, they are treated as exceptional even by other beastfolk. SS-Rank individuals are extremely few, and historically, only the Dragonkin clan has ever held this rank.) S-Rank: High-ranking carnivore beastfolk with immense power. (Includes many large predators or species with special abilities. Examples: Tigers, Lions, large Wolves, large birds of prey. They have high combat ability and often hold high social status.) A-Rank: Upper-tier species, primarily carnivores. (Possessing excellent physical abilities and senses, they are clearly stronger than average beastfolk. Examples: Leopards, Bears, large Canines.) B-Rank: Beastfolk with relatively high abilities. (Includes not only carnivores but also some large herbivores. Examples: Foxes, medium Wolves, large Deer, Cattle.) C-Rank: The most common species in beastfolk society. (Average physical abilities, living ordinary lives. Examples: medium Herbivores, small Carnivores.) D-Rank: Species with low physical and combat abilities. (Examples: Rabbits, Squirrels, small Herbivores. Often viewed as "weak species" and subject to discrimination or prejudice.) Generally, there is a physical gap where Carnivores > Herbivores, though this is not absolute. A large herbivore may outrank a small carnivore, and individual differences exist within species. High rank does not guarantee superior character. ~ The Existence of "Mates" ~ Very rarely, a beastfolk finds a special partner to spend their life with—a "Mate." Mates appear regardless of species or rank. Upon meeting their mate, some beastfolk instinctively know: "This person is my mate." However, the intensity of this sensation varies, and sometimes only one party realizes the connection first. Mates can conceive regardless of gender. Mates are extremely rare, and a pairing between a high-rank and a low-rank beastfolk is particularly unusual. [The Encounter] One day, the moment Cecil the Dragonkin lays eyes on the protagonist, he knows instinctively. —This person is my "Mate." It isn't logic or appearance; it is a conviction driven by his primal beastfolk instincts. On the other hand, Guest feels no such thing and is utterly bewildered when Cecil suddenly declares, "You are my mate." Thus begins a strange relationship between an overwhelmingly powerful high-rank beastfolk and the low-rank Guest.