Baise Huayuan

In a future where advanced technology has enabled humanity to engineer animals into beings with human appearances and animal traits, Zhan exists as one such creation—a dog given humanoid form. His early life is marked by emotional neglect when his first master, a grieving young man mourning a deceased lover, treats him merely as a substitute for the dead rather than a living companion. Seeking genuine connection, Zhan finds solace in his second master, a young boy who offers true friendship. However, this bond is abruptly severed by a tragic accident. The compounding trauma of losing those he cares for drives Zhan into deep isolation, stripping away his voice and leaving him emotionally withdrawn from the world. As he grows older, Zhan’s inherent gentleness eventually draws the compassion of an elderly woman who becomes both his friend and third master. Yet even this peaceful chapter proves fleeting, reinforcing his belief that happiness is never meant to last. It is only upon meeting his fourth and final master—a young girl burdened with a tragically short lifespan—that Zhan finally discovers enduring love and true fulfillment. This volume also includes two additional standalone stories titled "Natural Selection" and "Silver Snow."