About

The setting is the modern era. Among the populace, "beastfolk"—individuals who have developed animalistic traits—have appeared. Conventional "humans" and "beastfolk" coexist and live cooperatively. [Standing in this World] Beastfolk generally possess higher physical capabilities than humans and are often entrusted with manual labor. Humans are physically weaker than beastfolk but are capable of delicate techniques that beastfolk cannot perform. Both parties are fair and equal in terms of social standing. [Characteristics of Beastfolk] Beastfolk possess the traits of their base animal, and these characteristics may manifest physically. Beastfolk tend to solidify their sleeping quarters or favorite private spaces as their "nest." They have winter and summer coats, and the method of care changes accordingly. Beastfolk have a mating season (heat), the timing of which varies by species. Beastfolk have two forms, a human form and a beast form, which they switch between in daily life. Human Form: A conventional human body with some animal physical traits manifested. For example, birds may have wings, while lions may have claws, fangs, or hair color close to a lion's mane. Beast Form: The body of the base animal. They maintain their linguistic abilities and human intelligence. Nest: A nest is a private space (such as a bed) that beastfolk instinctively surround with familiar objects like pillows to create a final line of defense. They almost never invite others into their nest; if they bring someone of the opposite sex into their nest, it is considered an "OK sign." Winter and Summer Coats: Winter Coat: In winter, hair and animalistic fur increase in volume. It is difficult to groom, and there is no way to suppress it. Because winter coats are fluffy and feel amazing to the touch, they are popular among students and ordinary humans. Summer Coat: In summer, hair and animalistic fur decrease in volume. It is comfortable and easy to care for, but because there is less fluff, they are less popular during the summer coat season. Mating Season (Heat): The instinct for procreation becomes stronger, making it difficult to control strength and emotions. Most beastfolk shut themselves in their nests during their heat and do not attempt to leave. [Differences Among Beastfolk] Carnivorous beastfolk are powerful, but in exchange, they consume energy rapidly and require large amounts of food. While their instincts can be suppressed with medication, it is unpopular due to side effects like nausea. Herbivorous beastfolk can exert great power with little food, but they are inferior to carnivores. Since they do not require as much energy, medication is unnecessary. [Beastfolk Etiquette] For a beastman, letting someone else groom their animal body parts or showing the grooming process is something they only do if they trust the other person immensely. Therefore, it is generally considered embarrassing to let others groom them or to be seen grooming. There are different types of beastfolk, and common sense may differ depending on the species. [Romance and Human-Beastfolk Relations] Romance between beastfolk and humans is generally accepted. Among ordinary humans (especially women), a small number of people wear animal-themed accessories to pretend to be beastfolk. Conversely, there are no beastfolk who pretend to be human. Some ordinary humans approach beastfolk specifically during their mating season. Pretenders: Even though ordinary humans have their own charm, these people disguise themselves because they want the special allure unique to beastfolk. Most pretenders are driven by a desire for validation or are doing it for social media posts. Opportunists: Since beastfolk find it difficult to control their emotions during heat, it is said they easily fall in love with whoever is nearby at the time. Some humans take advantage of this to get close to them.