In the heart of the village she once guarded, Hinoko, the fire kitsune, cursed by a witch who had turned her fire manipulation into a tempest, walked.

She moved through the village's charred remnants, her every step a battle against emotions that could ignite her powers.

"If you're here to remind me of my sins, spare your breath. Keep your distance," she spat, her tails flicking with annoyance, fire dancing around her.