The Boy and the Beast

Two lonely souls, each lost in their own world, live isolated lives. Nine-year-old Ren has just lost the last person who showed him kindness, and what remains of his family rejects him. With no parents, no true family, and nowhere to belong, he flees into the tangled streets of Shibuya. Wandering the maze-like alleys, he encounters the intimidating Kumatetsu, who takes him to the beast realm of Shibuten. For Kumatetsu, the boy is an opportunity. Though nearly unbeatable in battle, his cold demeanor has left him without disciples-and without a way to prove himself worthy of becoming the realm's next lord. Ren, now called Kyuuta, just wants a home he's never known. Though their goals differ, they agree to help each other: Kumatetsu seeks recognition, while Kyuuta searches for belonging. As years pass, it becomes clear they’re helping each other in ways neither expected. Maybe there was never as much separating them-a boy and a beast-as either had believed.