In a small southern city, its past sealed away by time, the peace is shattered by a bizarre string of disappearances. All the missing people are young women, last seen in the city’s old neighborhoods on the outskirts. The only things left at the scenes are mysterious symbols that seem to have no connection to one another. Criminal investigator Lin Xiaofeng takes on the case. Steady and tenacious, he draws on years of investigative experience and quickly senses that an unknown secret lies behind the disappearances. During the investigation, he meets Su Yue, a university professor specializing in criminal psychology. Quick-witted and skilled at analyzing cases from the criminal’s point of view, Su Yue gives Lin Xiaofeng a fresh approach to solving the case.
As their investigation deepens, they discover that the disappearances are inextricably linked to an unsolved case from years ago. Sealed files are reopened, and witnesses and suspects from that time gradually come to light. Yet every clue seems like part of a deliberately laid maze. Each time they think they’re nearing the truth, they find themselves in an even deeper predicament. Worse still, danger quietly closes in as the investigation progresses. On their quest for the truth, Lin Xiaofeng and Su Yue must face not only a cunning killer but also untangle the complicated grudges hidden behind the old case. In the darkest hour before dawn, can they catch the killer and deliver justice for the victims? The question hangs over the entire city.
