Summary

The story begins four summers in the past. Vaedan, a young Ayin, discovers a serene and vibrant forest near the border of the Strigs. Accompanied by Quul, his loyal wolf companion, he feels a deep connection to the land, believing it to be blessed by the Earth Mother. He decides to claim the unoccupied territory as his home, despite its proximity to the Strigs, with whom the Ayins have a fraught history.

While preparing his shelter, Vaedan stumbles upon a magical trap near a riverbank that binds him with ghostly chains. Struggling to free himself, he prepares to confront whoever set the trap. Unexpectedly, a clumsy yet strikingly beautiful woman, Uni, enters the clearing. Vaedan immediately recognizes her as a Strig and grows suspicious of her intentions.

Uni reveals she accidentally ensnared Vaedan while conducting research on the local flora and fauna. Despite her...