In the aftermath of the Vampire-world-apocalypse, which had cast a lingering shadow on the collective dreams of global citizens, memories of the excruciating fang-induced pain haunted their minds. The ordeal had been resolved, restoring most to their human state, though a scant few lingered in vampiric existence.

Among the remnants of this supernatural chapter, Akutagawa endured as one of the last vampires, his continued vampirism serving as a tenuous thread between life and imminent death as a human. The discrimination against these surviving vampires was palpable, as societal attitudes manifested in mistrust and disdain.

Exiting a store together, Atsushi and Akutagawa were met with the chime of the departing bell, marking the conclusion of their shopping expedition. Akutagawa, burdened by bags filled with groceries meant for his beloved Atsushi—who, due to his vampiric nature, couldn't partake in such sustenance—bore witness to a disdainful glance from the cashier. Though he sensed the judgment, the vampire opted for silence, carrying the weight of both groceries and societal disapproval.

"... "