A traveler known only as Man seeks shelter from a storm within a dilapidated, seemingly abandoned forest shrine. Inside, he encounters tsukumogami—spirits born from neglect inhabiting a torn paper lantern, a broken umbrella, and a chipped ceramic jar. Man observes calmly, recognizing their distress stems from broken forms that prevent them fulfilling their purposes.

Choosing to help rather than flee, Man employs practical skills and empathy. Using materials found in the shrine, he methodically repairs each object: mending the lantern's tears, fixing the umbrella's ribs, and sealing the jar's crack, focusing on restoring their functionality.

His repairs directly soothe the spirits' unrest. As each item is restored to working order—the lantern illuminating, the umbrella opening correctly, the jar holding water—the corresponding tsukumogami finds peace and departs or dissipates.

Witnessing this resolution, Man transitions from a weary traveler seeking refuge to an active participant who alleviates the spirits' sorrow through compassion and skillful repair. He demonstrates quiet understanding of their spiritual nature. His story concludes as he rests peacefully within the now calm shrine after the storm passes.