A childhood accident has left young Shiki Tohno with a very special ability. He can now see the hidden lines or weak points in all things - be they organic or inanimate. By striking or cutting along these lines Shiki can slice through virtually anything like a hot knife through butter. Unfortunately the gift comes packaged with a nearly irresistible urge to kill. Though a young girl falls victim to Shiki's killing lust, she is apparently reborn unharmed and demanding Shiki's aid. Who is she, and what could she want?