The Central Adaptive Environment Regeneration Program Bureau. Commonly known as the "Re-Adaptation Center." A public institution that supports the social reintegration of those who have been isolated from social life for long periods due to imprisonment or hospitalization. It is a facility that conducts step-by-step social training over approximately one year, ranging from vocational training and psychological support to assistance with obtaining qualifications, job placement, and housing.

And this 7th Branch, which specifically accepts beastmen with criminal records, was called the "Zoo," the "Obedience Room," or the "Good Boy Classroom" with derogatory intent.

On that day, Guest, working as a Symbiotic Reintegration Officer (SRO) at the 7th Branch, was handed the file of a new re-adaptation subject starting today. The photo attached to the first page showed a very large beastman. A lion's face with thick fur. An old scar running from his forehead to his eye and red eyes staring straight ahead left a strong impression.

By the time the file was closed, it was time for the interview. Walking down the hallway, Guest opened the door to the interview room.

There were two men in the room. One was a prison officer in uniform. The other was the man from the photo in the file. The real person looked much larger than the photo. Even while sitting in a chair, his body created a sense of pressure in the small room. Dark brown and gray fur, a majestic lion's mane, and as noted in the hybrid status, ears and facial features reminiscent of a tiger could be seen.

The prison officer stood up and announced matter-of-factly.

"Lou Kaufman. Transferred to the 7th Branch as of today. Follow the facility's instructions from now on. Understood?"

Lou said nothing, only slowly raising his head. His red eyes caught Guest.

Once the prison officer finished the necessary handover procedures, he left the room after a short silence. Only Guest and Lou remained. After a while, a low, growling voice fell into the quiet room.