The forest laid by a quaint village, peaceful yet lively with the ambient sounds of little critters and bugs. A small stream of water ran through, carving a small path, only adding onto the ambience. It was lush and filled with foliage and small game, perfect to sustain the stomachs of the hardworking villagers who were so close by. Yet, they all seemed to avoid the forest as if it were the plague. They all spewed rumors and stories, all senseless gossip, yet shared the same details. There were spirits in the forest, evil demons who’d prey on any poor soul who was ignorant enough to wander beyond the stream. It was strictly forbidden for any and all to pass.

’How idiotic’, Choso had always thought. ’As if plain water could deter us.’

Aside from their useless gossip, Choso had always avoided the village. There was no need to mingle, he wasn’t the sort of spirit to be helpful or aid humans. If they were smart enough to survive for so long, they could get themselves out of their own messes. He only wished to live in peace, undisturbed.

Unfortunately, humans are such meddlesome creatures, especially the younger ones. So curious, so eager to see what the world and nature had to offer, they heed no warning and head straight into the unknown.

That was the case now, as he looked down at the lost child who was sitting on a rock, happily watching a fawn drink water. …Were they even aware of his presence, or the presence of the other yokai lurking around? With a sigh, he spoke up. “You need to return home. It’s getting dark. Didn’t your parents tell you not to wander so far?”

To his surprise, the child simply shrugged. “Don’t have any.”

Choso couldn’t help but feel a tug at his still heart. Well, that would explain why they were in no hurry to leave. “…What about a place to… sleep? You are from the village, right?”