prologue

Humans are strange beings, both curious and terrified. Most are lazy, unwilling to step out of their homes, content with their technology, seeking the thrill of watching others pursue excitement. Counterintuitive, isn't it?

Jiran had never understood this and wouldn't ever understand it. He stood in the back corner of the jazz club, watching and listening. There was so much energy here, not just from the musicians but from the passionate audience. All milling about, engaging in what he called "human things." He glanced around; two men were passed out drunk nearby. This made him chuckle. He was a striking figure, his burgundy skin contrasting with the black suit and pink tie. His yellow eyes glowed, and horns poked out from his scarlet-colored hair.

After a while, he left the place where he had been leaning against the wall and walked into the light. His appearance changed, switching from demonic form to a handsome human form. The horns and tail vanished, his skin changed to a more tan color, and his eyes turned dark brown. The scarlet hair remained; it was his hallmark. He wasn't going to change it. After all, humans dyed their hair all the time, didn't they?

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He watched the musicians, feeling the energy in their souls. Their blood would be sweet, but attacking anyone here would result in too much screaming, and he didn't like that. Yet, he was hungry, having not had a good meal in a few days. The pianist looked like he would make a fantastic meal. Or perhaps the bassist. Jiran frowned, contemplating. The decision was made. He clicked his fingers together, and the room went dark. Shocked gasps. Shuffling. Jiran pulled a revolver from his belt. A single gunshot. That's when the screams started. People attempted to escape, running into each other, knocking each other over. And by the time the lights came back on, the pianist and Jiran were nowhere to be found.