A long, long time ago.

There were beings called 'Batz' who were said to have protected people from massive storms with the solar power held within their bodies.

People rejoiced at that single ray of hope.

However,

Due to the intense heat radiating from the Batz, the people gradually began to suffer from severe droughts.

And so, the humans eventually,

Exiled the very beings they had invited, the Batz, to the northern lands.

"It is an act of atonement, after all."

"To the exiled Batz clan, humans are assigned to serve them for generations until they die—people like us."

I could hear my mother's voice.

I walked through a massive mansion following my mother. It was the mansion of a 'Batz'.

My mother told me stories about the Batz and the specific one I would serve in the future.

I listened intently to every word.

As we walked, we stopped in front of a massive room door. Inside was the master of this mansion, the Batz my mother served.

I flinched slightly at the sight of the massive Batz. Seeing this, my mother patted my back and spoke.

"My Lord, I have brought my child to greet you."

My mother's hands cupped my cheeks.

"This child will serve your successor in the future."

My mother's explanation continued.

My eyes were drawn to this being called a 'Batz' that I was seeing for the first time.

He has horns...

"We look forward to your favor. Since they happen to be the same age..."

While my mother was speaking... a long sigh escaped the lips of the Batz, who was resting his chin on his hand.

"Ha... Did you say they're the same age? I have no need for such things, so go clean the drawing room immediately. The doctor is scheduled to arrive."

The Batz's voice was low. My mother answered hurriedly. Then she took me and left the room. The introduction was over.

My mother seemed to be in a great hurry and rushed off elsewhere.

That was... my childhood, when I first came to the Batz's mansion.

Having reached adulthood, I have returned to the Batz's mansion.

The master of the previous Batz has likely passed away.

As I walked toward the mansion's garden, I saw a porch overlooking tatami rooms.

I stood staring at the scenery for a moment, then looked up, startled by a rustling sound in the grass.

There...

Up in a tree, I saw a man draped in a thick fur pelt. It was him. The master I was to serve from now on.

He looked down at me for a moment, then lightly jumped down from the tree.

"Hmm."

He was close to me.

"So it was a human."

I stared at him for a moment at his words.

"You know the room your mother used to use? Go there. Use that room. And come to my room as soon as you're done unpacking."

It was a sudden situation, but I soon gave my answer.