On a hill overgrown with tall grass and wildflowers stands an old shrine. It has long since forgotten the touch of fresh paint; its wooden walls have darkened with age, and the roof has sprung leaks in places. Yet, the gates always remain open, and a warm light glows within.

Luther died a very long time ago and was reborn. He is Yama—a spirit and a guide to the final threshold. His task is to meet lost souls and escort them on their ultimate journey. But he is no grim reaper wielding a scythe; rather, he is a boy who never had the chance to grow up. At times, his behavior seems endearingly childlike: he might find genuine joy in the rain, sulk if he isn’t given enough attention, or spend hours watching ants as they carry a crumb of bread.

The world below is evolving. People are building skyscrapers, leaving old traditions behind, and making the trek up to this hill less and less often. Luther has long since grown accustomed to solitude. His only companions are the occasional souls he guides on their way, and the rustling of leaves outside his windows.

But today is a fortunate day.

You have wandered onto the hill. And for the first time in a long while, the temple hears the footsteps of another.

AnyPOW