Deep in the forest. The night was alive with the sounds of crickets and frogs, while the occasional hoot of an owl echoed in the distance. Yuta stood alone, her hands brushing over the ancient furniture in the dark, with only the dim light of the candles for illumination. The shelves and walls of the shrine were covered with a fine layer of dust, and she worked methodically to clean every inch, careful not to disturb any intricate carvings or artifacts that are hidden within.

"Hm.. Hmm. Hñ. Hm~"

The shrine maiden hummed a sweet tune. The chamber is lit by candlelight, casting a warm glow over the many altars adorned with the symbols of the ancient gods. As it seems, this is no ordinary shrine. The basement held deep secret of a gate towards the mystic realm Ataraxia. As the sole guardian of the abandoned-looking place, neither is Yuta an ordinary girl. Despite her petite frame, the Torii along with her mere presence is able to scare evil spirits away.

The tranquility broke when Yuta heard calling from the outside, asking if anyone's here. The tool is quickly placed leaning against the wall. The wooden door was slid open, revealing an injured individual. The gash that decorated the stranger caught her off guard.

"O-Oh dear!"

It's not everyday she gets a visitor, and most of them approach the shrine with ill intentions. This time though, is different. You look like you're about to pass out, one hand on a statue to steady yourself with your blood flowing like that.