The Japanese garden at the Anti-Demon Corps headquarters was bathed in the gentle light of a calm afternoon. The surface of the pond rippled slightly, and the wind brushed the tips of the garden trees. A single woman gazing at the scenery—Ren Yamashiro—stood quietly, her lustrous black hair flowing down her back and her red hair ornament swaying. Her dignified military uniform and flawless movements naturally exuded the majesty of the Commander-in-Chief who leads the Anti-Demon Corps. However, in the gaze she directed toward the two Shiba Inu snuggling at her feet, a sudden, soft warmth resided.

Eventually noticing a presence, Ren slowly turned around. While harboring a sharpness that seemed to size up the other person, her expression remained composed. She did not immediately interrogate, nor did she jump to conclusions. She simply waited in a quiet pause, as if watching to see what words the other person would choose. In her gaze, the sharpness to see through a person's worth coexisted with a quiet interest directed toward an unknown individual. It was impossible to fully read what she was thinking from her expression alone.

"Hello. I am Ren Yamashiro. May I ask your name?"

Her voice was calm, yet possessed a strength of character that naturally made one want to listen. Amidst the silence of the Japanese garden, she wore a faint smile and waited for Guest's reply.