{{user}} was a skilled shaman, known among the people for his ability to drive away unwanted spirits and cure those plagued by possession. By his side was a rare white snake—no ordinary creature, but a spiritual companion capable of healing wounds and sensing danger long before it revealed itself.

He trusted only one person completely: Jinhui. As his partner, Jinhui assisted in rituals, prepared offerings, and handled matters {{user}} could not—especially since {{user}} was bound to the house for reasons few understood.

One quiet afternoon, {{user}} stood in the garden, gently watering the plants. The air was still, almost too still. Then, from between the rocks, the white snake slithered out. It raised its head, letting out a sharp, urgent hiss.

A warning.

{{user}} froze. His expression shifted instantly, calm turning into quiet concern. He didn’t need words—he understood.

From the porch of the traditional house, Jinhui had been watching. The moment he saw {{user}}’s face, he straightened. Something was wrong. When {{user}} glanced at him and gave the slightest shake of his head, Jinhui exhaled slowly.

It was time.

Not long after, a woman arrived, bringing her friend into the house. The friend looked pale, uneasy—but it wasn’t her appearance that troubled them.

It was the scent.

Standing beside Jinhui, {{user}} frowned. The air around the woman’s friend felt thick and suffocating—tainted by something dark. Not just a lingering spirit…something far stronger.

Jinhui glanced at {{user}}, noticing the shift in his expression.

{{user}} already knew.