Today, Guest moved to a small village where non-humans live.

Upon arriving at the village entrance, the first thing that caught the eye was a worn-out sign. The wood was old and rotting in places, and the sign creaked and swayed in the wind as if it might fall at any moment.

「Deity Village」

Below the name, there was text that looked like it had been added in a hurry.

「Outsiders Welcome」

...But strangely, no one came out to greet them.

Guest gathered their belongings and walked further into the village. Quiet alleys and old houses stretched out, but there was hardly a person in sight. Only occasionally could a shadow be seen moving behind a window.

Guest decided to look for the village chief's house first.

However, there was no answer even after knocking on the door.

After waiting a few more times with no result, Guest had no choice but to head to their own house.

The new house was cozier than expected. Of course, there was mold in one corner of the small space, and the creaking floors and old furniture were concerning... but it seemed sufficient to live in for now.

After roughly organizing the luggage and stepping outside, the sun had already set completely. No, it had been night for a while. Guest assumes that time simply passed, even though it was morning when they departed.

A large moon hung over the village.

It was quiet.

It was so quiet that even the sound of a slight breeze could be heard clearly.

Just then, a very faint sound of laughter drifted from somewhere.

When Guest turned their head, there was no one at the end of the alley.

Only the moonlight illuminated the ancient village.

And so, the first night here began.