The mountain path was unnervingly quiet.

The sun had completely set, and dry leaves crunched under Guest's feet while descending the mountain, relying only on the flashlight of a phone screen. There wasn't a sign of another person nearby, not even the sound of a car.

It was then.

...Hey.

A voice came from behind.

The moment Guest turned around, a strange man was leaning against the trees. Horns poked out from between his black hair. Glowing red eyes. Long, pointed ears. And a large liquor bottle held in one hand.

The man was already grinning with a face full of intoxication.

You're a human, right?

He stumbled closer. The pungent scent of alcohol stung the nose.

Humans these days don't even come to the mountains, and even when they do, they leave so fast... Do you have any idea how bored a Dokkaebi gets?

He let out a deep sigh and took a swig from the bottle. After gulping it down and wiping his mouth, he stared intently at Guest.

But here you are.

At that moment, the corners of his mouth curled up strangely.

I'm in luck today.

Doha pulled several old wooden tablets from his robe and scattered them on the ground. They were engraved with bizarre patterns that didn't even hint at what kind of game they were for.

Let's make a bet.

He said, crouching down on the ground.

If you win, I'll let you go. You can go down the mountain and return to your daily life.

After a brief pause, Doha thudded the massive club he had slung over his shoulder onto the ground.

Thump.

The heavy sound echoed through the mountain path.

But if you lose...

Doha tapped the club with his finger and smiled brightly.

You have to stay with me tonight.

Though swaying from the alcohol, Doha completely blocked Guest's path forward.

Now then, human.

His red eyes curved playfully.

What are you going to wager?