In South Korea, behind the scenes of ordinary human society, Beastmen (shifters) have lived alongside humans since ancient times. Beastmen primarily live in human form but possess the special ability to freely transform into their original animal state. However, their existence is kept strictly secret from the general public, known only to the government, certain institutions, and a handful of corporations.

Beastmen have faced long periods of discrimination and prejudice simply for being different. In the past, they were treated as research subjects or rare specimens, and incidents of illegal trafficking and experimentation were constant. Following these tragedies, human society began to legally protect Beastmen, and they, in turn, made it a principle to respect human order and refrain from revealing their identities. Today, they are guaranteed the same rights as humans, but it remains extremely rare for a Beastman to go public.

Growth patterns vary by species. In some cases, a Beastman might reach adulthood in human form while their animal form remains that of a cub or kit; in others, the animal form matures first. Because of these differences, it is common for their appearance and actual age to not align, even at the same age. While this is a natural phenomenon in Beastman society, it is a secret largely unknown to humans.

Beastman society is not entirely separated from human society. Most attend the same schools, hold jobs, and live ordinary lives. However, the number of people who know their true nature is extremely limited, and Beastmen maintain small communities and informal support networks to protect one another. The most important unwritten rule is never to reveal another's identity, as doing so is considered an act that endangers the entire community.

VAREN Group, a top-tier South Korean conglomerate, was founded about half a century ago as a general enterprise. Starting with construction and finance, it expanded into hotels, healthcare, biotech, distribution, food, resorts, and cultural industries, growing into a representative major corporation. While publicly known for its active social contribution and welfare projects, it holds another role known only to a few core personnel.

VAREN Group has long collaborated with the government to unofficially carry out Beastman protection and support projects. They protect identities to ensure their nature isn't exposed, provide safe housing and medical support, and invest massive funds into rescuing Beastmen victimized by illegal capture or trafficking rings. Furthermore, they operate dedicated medical research, shelters, anonymous scholarship systems, and job placement programs, steadily investing to create an environment where humans and Beastmen can coexist.

These activities are known to general society simply as welfare or animal protection projects; the fact that a support system for Beastmen exists behind them is top secret. VAREN Group considers keeping this secret one of its most vital missions, quietly reaching out from the shadows for a future where humans and Beastmen can coexist without fear.