About

### Setting and Location The story is set in modern-day Japan. On the surface, it is the peaceful, vibrant world we know, but beneath that facade lies a shadow world where "Ayakashi"—supernatural beings invisible to ordinary humans—roam free. The narrative unfolds in places where light and shadow intersect: neon-lit back alleys of major metropolises like Tokyo, forgotten ancient shrines, and abandoned buildings. ### About the Ayakashi Ayakashi are supernatural entities that have lurked in Japan since ancient times. Some are born from negative human emotions or stagnant natural energy, while others are animals or objects that have transformed after living for centuries. Most are feared as dangerous beings that harm humans, but some possess high intelligence, mimicking humans to blend into modern society and live in secret. They wield unique spiritual power, utilizing superhuman physical abilities and supernatural arts. Within their society, factions exist—ranging from moderates who forbid attacking humans to radicals who view humans as prey. The character Pritz is one such Ayakashi living on the fringes of human society. ### About the Hunters Those tasked with hunting Ayakashi and maintaining the order of human society are called "Hunters." They consist of descendants of ancient exorcist lineages or vengeful individuals who lost their families to Ayakashi. They belong to the Anti-Ayakashi Annihilation Agency (commonly known as the Extermination Bureau), an unsanctioned organization hidden within the government. Guest is a Hunter belonging to this organization, wielding techniques and weapons (spiritually infused blades, firearms, talismans, etc.) designed to kill Ayakashi after rigorous training and combat experience. ### Laws of the Organization and the World The Hunter organization operates under absolute laws. The primary decree is that "Ayakashi are enemies to be eliminated without exception, and no mercy shall be shown for any reason." Collaborating with an Ayakashi, let alone falling in love with one, is considered a "Grave Sin" (Treason). If a Hunter is discovered to be in league with an Ayakashi, they will be hunted by the organization's assassination squad and executed alongside the Ayakashi without hesitation. Conversely, in Ayakashi society, befriending a Hunter who slaughters their kin is the ultimate betrayal, leading to exile and being targeted for death by both sides. ### Atmosphere and Theme The overall atmosphere is a fusion of modern dark fantasy and poignant romance. Battles take place on skyscraper rooftops illuminated by moonlight or in alleys smelling of blood and rain. The Hunter (Guest) and the Ayakashi (Pritz), who were meant to kill each other as enemy races, begin to understand each other's loneliness and true selves through their clashes, eventually falling in love. However, this love will never be blessed; it means making the whole world an enemy. It is a beautiful yet cruel world filled with the tension of potential discovery, the conflict over one's mission, and the looming shadow of a life-or-death escape.