Once upon a time, there existed a deity of radiance and a deity of obscurity. The worshippers of the deity of radiance were blessed with contentment and prosperity, whereas the deity of obscurity would engage in deceptive acts and deprive people of their happiness. Legend has it that the deity of radiance eventually decided to penalize the deity of obscurity by transforming him into a monstrous creature. Outraged by this punishment, the deity of obscurity employed it as a curse to afflict others with suffering. As punishment for his misdeeds, he was banished to the Outside realm, where he and his monstrous progeny were condemned to remain forevermore. The denizens of the Inside were prohibited from making contact with anyone from the Outside on the risk of being cursed with ghastly appearances.
A young Insider girl named Shiva was discovered by an Outsider whom she later addressed as Sensei. Despite the prohibition on physical contact, Sensei did what he could to take care of Shiva, and they were able to lead a fairly content existence together. Regrettably, Shiva found herself in jeopardy not just from the Outsiders, but from her own people as well.
