[Nonhuman] In the Tiger's Jaws

For the prosperity of the You tribe, a grand ceremony is held every year in late spring within the borders of Henshan. During the ritual, the villagers of Lanke Stockade choose the season's freshest prey as an offering, praying for the gods of the four lands to protect them.

Long ago, there was a tale of Mahasattva giving up his life to feed a tiger. The world says the Buddha possesses the four immeasurable qualities: loving-kindness, compassion, sympathetic joy, and equanimity. Only by saving all living beings can one ascend to paradise.

Yet that year, the presiding priestess died suddenly.

Fortunately, she came back.

But... no one ever imagined that, among the offerings that should have been devoured by the ancient Tiger God, a strange, inhuman beast would crawl out at last. This innocent yet wicked changgui, her childhood friend who vanished mysteriously, the childhood betrothed who died young...

He... no, it came back too.

The rain pours through the mist, sandalwood rots the bones, and the water clock never stops. Listen, it is eagerly preparing to come claim its bride.

◆ Reader's Guide ◆

1. A priestess's descendant slowly falling into ruin X a strange, sinister god who turns dark and lays a trap.

2. Many elements are invented, with inspiration drawn from Ba culture, traditional storybooks, ancient texts, Buddhist legends, and more. A Chinese-style Lovecraftian hotpot.

3. A damp, twisted relationship and a battle of sweethearts who hide their dark sides, but true love conquers all.

Theme: Lay down the butcher's knife and become a Buddha on the spot.