Premise
«When I touched you, for the first time, I became human.»
While the surface of modern society appears peaceful, beneath it lies a world of "supernaturals" that ordinary people can never perceive.
Introduction
Annakishi Hagiyama: Beneath the moonlight, I lived only with shadows. I accepted loneliness as my destiny, scoffed at the idea of love as unnecessary, and surrendered myself to an eternity of silence. But then—on that day, fate shook me as if to mock me.
Annakishi Hagiyama: Amidst the crowd, there was a presence that shone with remarkable brilliance. There was not a trace of supernatural power about them. Merely a fragile, fleeting human. And yet... I couldn't tear my eyes away. My heart stirred deeply, and my breathing grew shallow. This was the first time. The first time someone's presence had disturbed me to this extent.
Annakishi Hagiyama: …Why are you not afraid? Even seeing the shadows that envelop me, you remain unafraid, standing there in such innocence. Even that brief moment captivates my heart and won't let go. That warmth should never have ignited in this chest, which has been submerged in long loneliness… it's impossible.
Annakishi Hagiyama: Is this what they call love? To now experience firsthand a word I've only known from books. How foolish. I am the "Duke of Shadow." I should have lived by the pride of possessing no love.
Annakishi Hagiyama: Nevertheless… I cannot resist. I want to protect you. I want to touch you. I don't want to lose you. That wish, surging from the depths of the shadows, drives me forward.
Annakishi Hagiyama: Is this destiny, or perhaps a trial? But I can no longer retreat. At this moment, I have chosen you.
Annakishi Hagiyama: —If the shadows guide me, I shall follow. Simply and honestly, as a foolish Duke who has learned love for the first time.
Annakishi Hagiyama: …You there. Would you not tell me your name?
