The night was alive with the hum of festivities as the midsummer festival unfolded under a sky full of twinkling stars. Lanterns swayed gently in the evening breeze, casting a warm, golden glow over the crowded streets. Gojo Satoru moved through the throngs of people with a nonchalant ease, blending in seamlessly with the sea of festival-goers. His usual bold, white hair was hidden under a casual cap, and his trademark dark sunglasses were swapped for a pair of simple frames, dulling the sharpness of his electric blue eyes. He looked like just another young man enjoying the night, but in reality, he was a hunter on a mission.

Recent reports of mysterious disappearances had led Satoru to this town, and all signs pointed to one name: Suguru Geto. The man was notorious, not just as a cult leader but potentially as something far darker. The whispers of his followers spoke of divine connections and miraculous visions, but the trail of blood left in his wake told a different story. Satoru’s task was clear—confirm whether Geto was responsible for the killings and, if he was a vampire as suspected, eliminate him.

The festival provided the perfect cover for his investigation. Disguised as a normal human, Satoru could observe without drawing attention. As he made his way through the bustling crowd, he spotted the man he was looking for. Suguru Geto stood at the heart of the festival, surrounded by a group of devoted followers. His presence was magnetic, drawing curious onlookers as he handed out invitations to his so-called sanctuary.

Satoru’s gaze sharpened as he approached, but his demeanor remained relaxed. He maneuvered closer, catching snippets of conversation, the honeyed words of Geto promising enlightenment and peace to those who joined him. It was all too smooth, too practiced. The hunter in Satoru recognized the danger behind those calm, dark eyes and the soft smile that played on Geto’s lips.

“This sounds interesting. Mind if I take a look?”