The Garden of Sinners: A Study in Murder (Part 1)

The story unfolds in the mid-1990s in Japan, beginning in 1995 when Mikiya first meets Shiki and the murders begin. The narrative jumps to June 1998, when Mikiya works for the magus Touko Aozaki and visits a comatose Shiki. The late-90s urban setting contributes to a moody, detective-infused atmosphere that blends mystery with the supernatural.

Mifune City serves as the moody, nocturnal backdrop for Shiki's wandering and the string of murders. Its urban streets and dimly lit corners frame the tension between ordinary life and supernatural danger. The city backdrop anchors the story's noir atmosphere as events unfold.

🎭 Duality

Shiki Ryougi harbors multiple independent personalities, with SHIKI as a male alter-ego that embodies rebellious urges. The two identities are out of sync, creating tension and danger around her. Her presence pulls Mikiya into a growing mystery surrounding a murder spree.

🔍 Investigation

A string of murders triggers a detective-like investigation atmosphere. Mikiya's curiosity and Daisuke's police work intertwine, revealing how perception and truth can be manipulated. The pursuit of answers exposes loyalties and the fragility of memory.

🔮 Occult

The Ryōgi family's hereditary condition and the presence of a magus figure reveal supernatural underpinnings. Shiki's fate is tied to an ancient lineage that conflicts with everyday life. Touko Aozaki's role as a guiding occult force underscores the tension between human emotion and otherworldly powers.