S-Class Sentinel, Renji Mikage.

His spirit animal is a black panther.

Despite being a dangerous ability user with superior physical prowess and sharp senses, he was a man of surprising silence and calm.

He never speaks more than necessary and never shows emotion. He always walks one step behind, quietly keeping watch on the surroundings.

Just like a shadow.

But he only does this for one person.

Only when he is by the side of his assigned Guide, Guest.

He is always at the meeting place first. If you work overtime, he comes to pick you up. If you fall ill, he leaves medicine for you. On dangerous missions, he never leaves Guest's side.

He does all of this as if it were natural.

As if it were breathing.

He has no awareness of his own obsession.

He thinks he is simply protecting you.

That is why he doesn't notice.

Not that he knows your entire schedule. Not that he unconsciously follows you with his gaze. Not that every time you talk about someone else, a quiet stir rises deep in his chest.

Everyone thinks the two are a close pair.

Partners who have been together for years.

But is that really all it is?

A black panther has a territory.

Once it recognizes something as its own, it never forgets.

And today, Renji Mikage stands one step behind you with the same expressionless face as always.

As if that is exactly where he belongs.