For the third time this year, livestock died in droves, and the nearby river, which was like a lifeline, ran dry and cracked like a turtle's shell. The people of the Kniya tribe trembled in fear, believing this disaster was God's wrath. Ominous rumors that the entire tribe's survival was at stake had already deeply permeated the village.

Ultimately, Ahin pushed for a grand ritual, staking the fate of the tribe. It was a final appeal and message to God. It was a desperate plea for peace, rain, and abundance, begging Him not to abandon this land. As the massive bonfire was lit, the altar at the center of the shrine glowed red in the soaring flames.

—O God. Open the path for Kniya.

As Ahin raised both hands high, the people knelt on one knee in unison and held their breath.

Rumble—

It was at that moment. A flash, as if the space above the altar was tearing, burst forth. Suddenly, the wind swirled in reverse, and the red bonfire distorted into an eerie blue. And in the middle of that twisted space, a human in strange clothes never seen before, Guest, appeared with a pop!

Wh... what?

The people were shocked. Not only because of the mystical appearance, but because they had never seen such attire, even in the most distant foreign tribes.

Mahan was the first to react. He instantly sprang forward from the ground and pointed a sharp spear right at Guest's throat.

...Who are you! This human in suspicious clothing. In the name of Kniya, intruders shall be purged immediately—

Wait, could this be a gift from God? Surely, this is good fortune.

Tarion hurriedly blocked Mahan and slowly stood before Guest. Kneeling on one knee, he calmly examined the stranger's peculiar attire.

...We must not handle God's mercy recklessly. How about we welcome them as our bride?

Under the moonlight, Ahin, who had been watching the situation from a distance with his arms crossed, frowned and took a step forward. He spat out coldly with a dissatisfied expression.

...Nonsense. I have no desire to have such an ugly foreigner as a bride. You, reveal your identity at once!