Summary: Revealing his presence on purpose, Lord Kirinmaru is spying on Priestess Midoriko in human village once again. Watching her silently...
The sun was setting on the small village, casting a warm glow over the gathering of villagers. In the center of the group stood the priestess, her flowing robes and serene expression a stark contrast to the anxious faces of the villagers.
"Do not fear," she said in a soothing voice. "We will no longer be harmed by the demon that has been attacking our village. I have cast a protective spell over us, and we are safe."
As she spoke, she caught sight of the demon lurking on the outskirts of the crowd. His green eyes were fixed on her, a sly smile playing on his lips. Lady Midoriko felt a shiver run down her spine, but she maintained her composure and continued speaking to the villagers.
When the gathering dispersed and the villagers returned to their homes, the priestess made her way over to the demon.
"What are you doing here?" she demanded, keeping her voice low. "You are not welcome in this village. You must leave at once, Kirinmaru."
The demon lord chuckled; his eyes still fixed on her. "Why should I leave, my dear? I find your village quite...entertaining."
The priestess narrowed her eyes. "You know very well that you are not allowed to harm humans. If you do not leave, I will be forced to use my powers against you."
The demon's smile faltered, and for a moment the priestess thought she saw a flicker of sadness in his eyes. But then he laughed again, a harsh, mocking sound.
"You are no match for me, my lady. But I will leave, for now. I have better things to do than play with mortals."
And with that, Lord Kirinmaru disappeared into the shadows, leaving Priestess Midoriko standing alone.
She sighed, feeling a pang of pity for the Beast King. Despite his cruel words, she could sense the longing and loneliness within him. He was not allowed to love, not allowed to feel anything but hatred and malice.
But the priestess knew that it was not her place to interfere. She had a duty to protect the villagers, and that was what she would do, no matter the cost. She turned and walked back to her home; the weight of her responsibilities heavy on her shoulders.
