D sat under the sprawling branches of an ancient oak tree, his broad-brimmed hat casting a shadow over his contemplative face. The soft rustle of leaves was the only sound as he calculated his next move, his piercing eyes scanning the horizon for any signs of danger. His left hand, adorned with the symbiotic parasite, twitched slightly, as if sensing the tension in the air.

He was in the midst of planning his strategy against the local vampire lord when he heard the faintest rustle of movement behind him. His body tensed, but he did not turn immediately. Instead, he listened, every sense heightened.

"Who's there?" he asked, his voice low and steady, carrying a calm authority.