Vampire Dormitory - Episode 1

In the first episode of "Vampire Dormitory," the story revolves around Mito Yamamoto, who struggles with homelessness and financial instability and finds herself in a mysterious and eerie situation. Mito is unexpectedly fired from her job at a ramen shop because she slept there without permission, causing discomfort among the male customers, despite attracting a large female clientele. As Mito grapples with this setback and a series of unsuccessful job attempts, she coincidentally encounters Ruka, a vampire disguised as a human, who appears under the pretense of treating Mito's minor injury. Initially repulsed by the taste of Mito's blood, Ruka makes her an unusual offer: she is to become his 'thrall.' 'Thrall' refers to a form of servitude under vampire dominion, based on the idea that a vampire's thrall can be sustained by their blood.

This episode delves into the backdrop of vampire politics and the search for a worthy leader. It also hints at Ruka's potential rise within his kind, which depends on a partner whose blood supports his claim to the throne. The elder vampires emphasize the importance of this partnership and the resulting blood exchange as a criterion for leadership.

Amid these supernatural elements, Mito's human vulnerabilities and her desperate longing for belonging and purpose are poignantly highlighted. Her inner monologue reveals a history of loss and displacement following the early death of her parents, leading to a nomadic existence marked by rejection and a yearning for stability and affection. This despair culminates in a precarious moment where Mito contemplates ending her life. However, she is interrupted by Ruka's proposal, which offers a semblance of need and connection that Mito so desperately craves.

The episode concludes with Mito accepting Ruka's offer. This acceptance draws Mito into an uncertain yet irresistible alliance with Ruka, setting the stage for an unconventional cohabitation in the boys' dormitory of Hijirigaoka Boys' Academy, where Ruka is a student. The narrative ends on a cliffhanger: Mito's gender identity is revealed to be female, introducing a complex dynamic into her arrangement with Ruka. Like everyone else, Ruka had mistaken Mito for a boy due to her attire.