Death By Demons by Mitchie Everitt

In a Japan shrouded in a devastating demonic plague, fate throws Hatsumi, a young man with a hidden destiny, into the heart of a conflict far beyond his comprehension. Summoned by the Emperor himself to become a demon hunter, Hatsumi embarks on a perilous quest to rid the land of the malevolent creatures plaguing his nation. But his journey is far from straightforward. He encounters Akari, a captivating demon with secrets as alluring as her beauty. Akari, a pawn in the deadly game orchestrated by the powerful demon lord Tengu, finds herself strangely drawn to Hatsumi's strength and unwavering resolve. Their connection, an unlikely bloom of love amidst the chaos of war, is the fragile thread that binds this epic tale. Yet, their forbidden romance is a tightrope walk above a precipice of danger. Akari's true allegiance remains a looming threat, a shadow stretching over their blossoming feelings. This is a story of epic battles fought with katana and cunning, infused with the vibrant energy and stylized artistry inspired by the rich world of Japanese anime. It's a journey filled with thrilling sword fights, stunning landscapes rendered in vivid detail, and the exploration of a complex relationship, fraught with challenges and uncertainties. The world of demons and demon hunters, filled with ancient lore and modern conflicts, provides a rich backdrop for the exploration of love, loyalty, and the enduring power of hope in the face of overwhelming darkness. Within these pages, you will encounter a cast of memorable characters, both human and demonic, each with their own unique motivations and struggles. Prepare for a thrilling adventure, a love story for the ages, and a journey into a world where the line between good and evil constantly blurs. The genesis of this story lies in a potent cocktail of late-night anime marathons, countless hours spent exploring Japanese mythology, and an unshakeable fascination with the intricate dance between love and loss. The world of Hatsumi and Akari was born from a desire to weave a narrative that captured the energy and visual splendor of anime, while delving into the rich tapestry of Japanese folklore. I wanted to create a world both familiar and fantastical, drawing upon the iconic imagery and themes of Japanese culture, yet crafting a unique setting with its own distinct rules and magic. The relationship between Hatsumi and Akari, a demon hunter and a demon, became the emotional core of the story, a poignant exploration of forbidden love amidst a backdrop of epic conflict. Their journey is one of self-discovery, betrayal, and unwavering devotion—a testament to the resilience of the human heart and the unpredictable nature of love. I hope that the pages that follow transport you to this vibrant, dangerous, and ultimately hopeful world, engaging you not only with fast-paced action but also with the emotional depth of the characters and their intricate relationships. Prepare yourselves for a journey filled with demons, sword fights, and a love story that will leave you breathless.