CHAPTER 45 - Short Vacation. Part 4.
(Pov- Faye.)
Number 74… I still remember your smile. Everyone told me to forget you, but I can never get you out of my mind. Shadow didn't just steal my legendary ghost—he stole the love of my life, the most important person to me. I'll never forgive him.
"And that's why I made this decision… I'm sorry."
I know you'll hate me for this, and you might never speak to me again, but if I can free you from Shadow's clutches, it'll be worth it.
I want you to be free again. Please forgive me for what I'm about to do.
"Forgive me."
If only I'd been stronger… If only… No. "If only" doesn't exist. I was weak back then, but now, thanks to the Wooden Doll, my power has grown. I can stand up to Shadow, and when I defeat him, I'll kill him instantly. I won't make the same mistake Hercules did.
•
•
As the eldest son of the Fate clan, I inherited Legendary Ghost Number 74 when I turned 7.
"Now kneel before your new master!"
My personality wasn't exactly stellar. As the eldest son, and with one of the most powerful abilities, my arrogance blinded me to seeing people as people. I viewed everyone as mere insects.
Number 74 knelt without hesitation, not out of fear, but because it was all she knew: obeying her masters' orders.
After over 200 years of enslavement, her hope of freedom had vanished, and she accepted her fate. Her face showed nothing—no sadness, no hatred for having a new master and not being freed. She felt nothing.
No matter how much I insulted or belittled her, she showed no emotion, and that infuriated me.
I decided to ignore her and focus on my training.
How did I fall in love with her? I don't know… One day, while training with her, a bird landed on my shoulder, and for the first time, I felt an emotion from Number 74. She found it adorable that a bird was on my shoulder. I tried to kill it but decided not to. Why…? I don't know… My arrogance meant I had no friends; everyone avoided me, and no one talked to me. Number 74 was the only one who didn't hate me and was always willing to listen. I think I didn't kill the bird because it would've saddened her.
She was the closest thing I had to a friend, and… well… seeing her happy made me… happy. It felt strange. I can't really explain it.
I started treating her better. Why? I wanted to make her happy.
I was an immature kid, but still a kid. When I wasn't talking to Number 74, I felt lonely. My parents worked all day, and I had no friends. Number 74 was the closest thing to a friend, and she took care of me. When I realized she'd be the closest thing to a friend I'd ever have, I decided to treat her better and earn her trust as a friend. At first, I told myself I was only being nice to strengthen our bond, making it easier to use Number 74, but that was just an excuse because I didn't want to admit I wanted a friend.
Over the years, I got Number 74 to smile again. It was hard, I'll admit. Her previous wielders treated her like an object, but I treated her like a person. I gave her delicious food, taught her to draw, to play video games… I taught her to enjoy life. After many years, Number 74 felt like a person again, not an object.
After years, she saw me as a true friend, and I… I fell in love with her. It was inevitable, considering she was my only friend.
I told her how I felt, and she agreed to be with me forever… but I never got to kiss her. She was too shy and asked for time to get used to being with me. I agreed because all that mattered was having her by my side… But he ruined everything. He ruined my life.
"Yes, yes, I know you're mad I stole your legendary ghosts, but I found out you have another. You've got Legendary Ghost Number 74, so hand it over. Will it be the easy way or the hard way?"
Shadow forced his way into the organization's base, threatening to kill people in the city if the wielder of Legendary Ghost Number 74 didn't show up.
Back then, I wasn't allowed to fight him, but now, there was no avoiding it.
With an arrogant attitude, I stepped onto the battlefield, overconfident because Number 74 could protect me even from nuclear bombs, but…
"That was disappointing."
Shadow completely crushed me. My power only let me shield myself from attacks. The ghosts I controlled were easily destroyed by Shadow's legendary ghosts, and my attacks were so weak they didn't even scratch him. Despite having one of the most powerful legendary ghosts, I was no match for Shadow. His spiritual power was on another level. I couldn't even graze him… I couldn't protect her.
The other members were defeated by Number 31, and Shadow took me down. Number 74 took more damage than she could shield me from and was defeated. A mere child defeated us all. We had weapons capable of harming legendary ghosts, but Number 31 was stronger than before. Shadow's influence made her more powerful, and combined with her speed, we couldn't beat her.
"Well, excuse me, I'll take your legendary ghost."
Shadow placed his hand on my chest and stole control of Number 74. When a wielder loses their legendary ghost, they die as their heart explodes.
I survived because, with her last bit of energy, Number 74 protected my heart and kept it from bursting.
"Thank you."
"N-No…"
I passed out from the damage my body took.
Shadow stole my only friend.
Shadow stole my first love.
Number 74, no matter what I have to do, I'll set you free again.
"Just wait a little longer."
•
•
(Flashback.)
(Pov- Saik, age 7.)
"I finished my part, Shadow!"
I looked at the people around me. Yep, Number 31's crazy.
"Did Number 4 corrupt your mind, Number 31?"
"Huh? No, of course not, I feel fine. Why?"
"I see… Sometimes I forget legendary ghosts are insane."
Number 31 killed a bunch of members, crushing their heads. Their brains are splattered on the ground. So gross. Their skulls are cracked open, insides spilling out. Disgusting… Oh…
"A pregnant woman?"
"Didn't notice, sorry."
She killed a pregnant woman too. The baby won't survive unless they get it out immediately.
"Number 31, take control of that woman's lifeless body and keep the heart pumping blood."
I turned to the old man, the leader of this organization.
"Cut off the head completely and seal the wound with fire."
I forgot what that's called.
"Number 31, speed up the growth process with your speed power. Hurry before it's too late."
"On it!"
She entered the pregnant woman's body.
Well, I think the baby'll survive.
"Why?"
"Huh? Did you say something, old man?"
"Why are you doing this?"
"I'm not evil. I told Number 31 not to kill members unless necessary. I just needed her to distract them so I could fight that kid uninterrupted."
"No, I mean… why? Why are you so determined to collect all the legendary ghosts? You say you're not evil, but you kill to get them… It doesn't make sense. Why go this far? Do you really want to carry the weight of killing good people?"
"Ugh, I'm too lazy to explain my reasons and mindset. I don't have time for that. I'm hungry. Number 74, come out."
She emerged from my body, raising her hands with a big smile.
"Good evening! I'm Number 74, nice to meet you! Oh, are you my new master? So adorable! You look so cute in that black outfit!"
"I'm Shadow. Pleasure's mine."
"Can I hug you?!"
"Uh… Sure, I guess."
"Thanks!"
She hugged me tightly… Huh?
"Number 74, what are you doing?!"
"Why are you doing this to our son?!"
Oh… I think these two are the kid's parents. Were he and Number 74 really lovers? I thought they were just close friends.
Oh, right, why's Number 74 kissing me on the mouth? Her tongue in my mouth feels weird. My parents kiss like this—it's an adult kiss, right? Why's she kissing me? I'm a little kid. This makes no sense, and it's probably illegal.
"H-Hey, stop it!"
Number 31, inside the headless pregnant woman, pushed her. She's talking because she's a ghost and doesn't need a real head to speak. I'll admit, it's a bit creepy and gross seeing a decapitated woman standing and talking, but it's also kind of interesting.
"He's 7, you damn pedophile!"
Well, I gave my first time to Number 31, but since I lied about my age, I can't call her a pedophile. Number 74 kissed me without knowing my age, but it's obvious I'm a kid. Why'd she do it?
"Huh? Did I do something wrong? Aren't we supposed to kiss our master? I read in light novels and anime that spirit familiar rituals with human forms end with a kiss on the mouth. I'm kinda like a spirit familiar, right?"
"That's just fantasy. Those kisses in stories are just to add a woman to the protagonist's harem. You know, the protagonist summons a spirit, kisses her, and she falls for him. It's stupid and pointless. Plus, what kind of woman would fall for a guy who summoned her to be a slave? Makes no sense. That's why I hate those novels—they're illogical."
"Sorry, Master, I didn't know. But at least I gave you my first kiss, Master! Hehe. That gives me an edge."
"If you want privileges like days off and food, do your job well and behave. You don't need to be my girlfriend or anything. I won't take advantage of you, don't worry."
"Does that mean I can watch anime and read manga if I protect you well?! I don't have to fall for you or give you my body?!"
"Nope, not necessary. I won't exploit you."
"Yay! Master, I hit the jackpot with you! Thanks! I'd prefer freedom, but being with you won't be so bad."
"Go back."
She returned to my body.
"Tch. That girl's got a screw loose," Number 31 said, crossing her arms.
Ugh, it's so weird seeing her like this. I might puke.
"W-Why's she acting like that? S-She was never this cheerful with Faye," the boy's mother said.
"I erased her memory. All her memories from the last 250 years are gone. If she stayed attached to that kid, her performance would suffer… Oh, look at the time. I need to sleep. My stepdad'll be mad if I wake up late again."
A lie—I don't have a stepdad, but it's a way to hide my identity.
"Good night and goodbye."
I said it in Spanish for extra flair. I'm taking Spanish classes, so I do this to show off.
I jumped to leave, but I got a bad feeling.
"Shadow!"
I turned right and took a hard hit to the face.
Number 31's warning came too late.
I rolled across the ground and crashed into a dog statue. The statue broke, and the dog's head landed on my right shoulder. I-It hurts so much. Who hit me? That strength isn't normal—not even I'm that strong.
"Sorry, Shadow, but I won't let you leave."
That strength… That white outfit… It's him.
"…I've heard stories about you. You're Hercules, right?"
I wiped the blood from my nose.
"The so-called hero."
•
•
(Present Day.)
(Pov- Saik.)
Millionaires' food is delicious. A cut of this meat costs over $1,000 because it comes from a cow living better than the average person, and I'm eating it all by myself.
Having a millionaire student has its perks. Normal Saik can't afford this luxury. I have to stick to instant meals since they're cheaper.
Okay, I'm exaggerating. I still have plenty of money, but it'll run out in a year. I need to find people who'll buy my drawings.
"Ahem… Master, they're here."
I stopped devouring the feast Nergio prepared just for me and turned to him.
A girl my age and a little boy, about 8. Perfect.
"Huh? I-Is he really Shadow? How old is he?"
"I'm 17, miss. I assume you know why you're here, so I won't repeat it. Please treat me like a normal person. Don't call me Shadow—just Saik. Don't act like I'm some monster or whatever. My name's Saik, a high school student who just wants to study. Please treat me like a normal person. Let's go."
Ugh, I hope Sylphie doesn't keep misinterpreting my actions. I really don't want her to force me into something drastic, like changing classes.
I can barely handle Naok and the others around me. If Sylphie keeps seeing me as a romantic interest instead of a friend, it'll be more than I can take, and I'll switch classes.
Sylphie will drop those feelings when I get Naima to fall for me, but I'm not sure if I can pull it off. Naima's not like Sylphie—she's outgoing and won't fall for a guy just because he's nice. How do you make someone like Naima fall for you? I don't know, but I'll try.
•
•
(Pov- Kaeyko.)
W-Well… This spirit really acts like a real dog. It behaves just like one.
I went out to the street to confirm if I'm the only one who can see it. And yep, it's confirmed—only I can. I walked among people with a floating dog above my head, and no one batted an eye.
Why's this spirit attached to me? No clue. Coincidence? Probably. I've never had pets, so it can't be a dog from my childhood. I think this spirit lived in the apartment—that's the most likely explanation, since I don't come from a special family that can see spirits, and I didn't have pets growing up.
Could the previous tenants see it? I'm curious to ask, but I don't want to sound crazy. I'll research dog spirits first.
Ugh, little dog, you're scary, but at least you're harmless.
"Should I give you a name?"
I guess so, since it started jumping and wagging its tail when I said that.
Is it male or female? I checked its private parts, but it doesn't have any. Do spirits not need genitals, or is it a genderless spirit? I'll consider it genderless.
A neutral name… Hmm… Ugh, I can't think of one… What if I give it a name close to mine? Maybe that'll make it like me more and drop any hidden plans to kill me in my sleep.
I still don't trust this spirit. I mean, who'd trust a spirit this fast? I don't know if it's good or evil, but I'm not letting my guard down.
A name close to Kaeyko… Hmm… Kaey? Yeah, sounds neutral.
"My name's Kaeyko, and your name's Kaey. Short and easy to remember. Like it?"
It started barking and jumped at my face.
…Okay… Fine, I admit, I saw my life flash before my eyes. I thought it was gonna eat my face, but it's just licking me. I hope this is its way of showing affection and not tasting its future meal.
"Alright, Kaey, we're friends from now on. Please treat me well."
I really hope you treat me well and don't kill me.
Wow, my first friend's a spirit… Am I going crazy from loneliness? I don't know. I'll keep this a secret—I don't want to end up in a psych ward.
One last test, but I'll do it on Monday.
Well… I've got a spirit pet… Doesn't sound good. Am I close to death, and that's why I can see a spirit? I'll hit the hospital later—I don't want to die so soon.
•
•
(Pov- Saik.)
Number 31's in position. Ugh, this was supposed to be a peaceful, trouble-free vacation, but fate keeps trying to ruin my normal life.
I just want to be a damn normal student, that's all. Goddess of Ghosts, stop screwing up my quiet life.
I just… I just… Ugh, I really just want a normal life and to kill myself when I graduate. My only goals are: graduate top of my class and get a girlfriend.
I recently learned teens have a strong sex drive. I'm starting to get curious about it, so I think that's normal. I'll add an extra goal: lose my "human virginity." I'll do it with my future girlfriend, and if I don't get one, I'll do it with a prostitute. I could do it with Number 31, but I want to try with a living woman. I want to see if it feels different or the same as with a ghost.
If I ask Sylphie for that favor in the future, given her dumb mindset of feeling like a burden, she'd probably agree. That's so stupid.
Sylphie, don't worry, I won't take advantage of you or let others do it. I'll make you an independent woman. It's a hassle, but I promised your dad, and my family taught me to keep promises… Well, I think I promised Yuki… Whatever.
Sylphie, as long as you don't betray me, I'll keep protecting you… But if you ever betray my trust, you'll force me to make a drastic choice.
"Huh?! Saik, you turned into a pervert!"
Yuki, lying on my lap, showed me her phone screen.
"What's wrong with it?"
"I thought you only drew cute stuff!"
"+18 content gets more attention."
I used to draw random things—kissing couples, cute animals, even monsters my mind made up.
I tried drawing Number 31 naked (obviously changed a lot of her features), and I think it came out… decent? I guess.
The important thing is I got new male followers.
They asked me to draw her having sex, but I refused. I don't have references, and if I ask Number 31 for help, she'll use it as an excuse to ask for sex.
I think I'll stick to drawing nudes and monsters.
"We're really broke, huh? Please don't sacrifice your humanity and draw furry stuff."
What's furry? And what's it got to do with my lack of humanity? I have a feeling I shouldn't ask.
"I won't, don't worry."
Because I don't even know what it is. I'll look it up later. If it's something that'd make me a lot of money, maybe I'll do it.
"And yeah, we're broke. I'm desperate and don't want to work at a convenience store or supermarket. I'd rather draw. I hate to admit it, but people who draw this stuff make good money."
After buying all the furniture for my house, I had enough money to survive one or two years, but that shrank because I have to feed Yuki too.
"Well… At least it's honest work… Can you draw me?!"
"Sure, but I won't post it online."
"Why not?! That's not fair—I want people to call me cute too!"
"You want some ghost hunter to figure out I could see you? Too risky."
"Oh, right."
Better safe than sorry… This feeling…
"Cancel."
"Cancel?"
"No, it's nothing, Yuki."
Ugh, I don't get why life won't let me have a normal life… Huh?
"Wow…"
Ugh… This is… How should I react?
"Hey, Yuki, what are you doing?"
"Raising money to donate to an orphanage."
"Huh? Seriously? I'd give something, but I don't like donating money. Can I donate clothes? I've seen firsthand how donations get diverted and pocketed by politicians and big shots. That's why I never donate money."
"Obviously I'm kidding! It's super obvious I'm rubbing your abs…! And is that money thing for real?"
Oh, a joke… Now that I think about it, it makes sense.
Yuki's rubbing my abs with her hand. Does she like muscles? I'm pretty proud of my body, so it doesn't bother me.
"Yeah, it's true. My mom volunteered at a cancer clinic, and the higher-ups were skimming donations."
"Those bastards!! And no one did anything?!"
"I think they got found out because they died. They were found dead. My theory is some kind-hearted millionaire got pissed when they learned their donation was stolen and had them killed."
"…Hey, Saik, I'm scared of rich people."
"Don't worry, Yuki, we'll be fine. No millionaire would care about someone like me, so we'll live in peace. You don't need to worry about anyone wanting to kill me."
A huge lie—lots of people want me dead, but I won't tell Yuki.
"What about Nergio?"
"He's a special case. He was my mom's friend, that's all."
"I see."
I was the one who killed those people. When I found out the money my family donated was used to buy a beach house, I got mad that they exploited my parents' kindness. So I altered their wills before killing them to ensure all their money and assets went to charity.
No one screws over my family and gets away with it.
"Hey, Saik, you shouldn't wear contacts too long. I read online it's bad for your eyes."
"I know. I need to wear my glasses. You coming to the crater?"
"It's just a hole from a meteor, no big deal! I'd rather go to the aquarium!"
"Well, it wasn't caused by a meteor."
"Huh?"
"María caused it when she fought a demon."
"What?! For real?! Tell me the whole story, please!"
"Alright."
I don't like hiding things from Yuki. I was the one who fought that demon, but I'll hide that and say it was María.
…Ugh…
"Cancel."
"Huh?"
"Nothing. Alright, I'll tell you the story."
Stop messing with me, idiot.
•
•
(Pov- Goddess of Ghosts.)
"Well, well. Your control is simply beautiful. No surprise you could defeat Legendary Ghost Number 100—something even I couldn't do."
You won't let me look at you, huh? Shame. I'll say it again, I'm not interested in you romantically. I love shy boys—they're cuter. You're too cold and blunt. I just want to know more about your power.
A mere 8-year-old kid did something I couldn't.
A mere child became Shadow, a being who captured the legendary ghosts.
You really intrigue me. With you by my side, we'll become true gods. People will have no choice but to obey and worship us. We'll do whatever we want with them.
"We could even take over more worlds."
And take over hell itself.
"Hehe. Endless adventures await us, Saik."
I hope you're not dumb enough to reject me.
•
•
(Pov- Saik.)
I met up with Sylphie to visit the crater together. I have a little theory I want to confirm there, which is why I'm going.
I didn't inherit anything from my parents, just some looks because my mom was beautiful… or so women I know tell me.
Beauty means nothing to me. I'm not attracted to beautiful women. I could fall for a morbidly obese, bald woman as long as she meets my one requirement: she's not easily intimidated and won't betray me. If she meets that, she could win me over.
So far, the only ones who meet that are Naima and Number 31, but Number 31's out since she's a ghost. That's why I want to win Naima.
Anyway, as I was saying, I only inherited some of my mom's beauty, and that feels unfair. Why didn't I inherit her intelligence or personality? My parents were incredibly talented people, highly respected in their fields. I wanted to be like them, but I wasn't born with the talent.
My mom, especially, was a kind woman with a pure heart. She gave free medical consultations to the poor and even gave away expensive medicine to those who needed it. She was so kind that it's weird that I, her son, am so selfish. I don't care about being selfish, and that's the problem. I don't care. Why am I like this? I've confirmed I'm really her son, not adopted. Why am I so different from my parents? I'll never understand.
But now that I'm more mature, I can test if my selfish personality is true. In the past, I felt nothing when people died because of me, but now I'm a teen, not a little kid. Will I feel even a bit of sadness or guilt? I hope so, because that'd mean I'm a little like my late mom.
I just want to be someone like her… Someone worthy of being her son.
"Sorry for keeping you waiting. I was finishing a drawing."
"N-No worries, Saik… Oh, here!"
She offered me a ring.
A black ring, huh? Why's she giving me this? She already gave me a light novel for my birthday. Why this? Well, at least it'll match my black bracelet.
Wait, Saik, don't you realize what a ring means? Is Sylphie skipping steps and proposing? Oh… I think normal students don't get married. College students do, but not high schoolers.
Sorry, Sylphie, I'm too young to marry.
"Sorry, Sylphie, I'm too young to get married. I have to decline the ring, sorry."
"Huh…? N-No, you're misunderstanding! I-I just thought it'd look good on you!"
"Oh, I see."
Is this one of those random gifts friends give each other for no reason? The only random gift I've gotten was a lollipop from Rossy in middle school. Though she later called me a perverted idiot and slapped me. I didn't hit back because I was visiting her mom that day and didn't want trouble.
Oh, wait, that's right, I did the same thing Tanya did. That lollipop Rossy gave me—she'd already licked it. I put it in my mouth without caring, and she got mad because she thought it was gross.
Oh… I get it… Now that I understand women's feelings better, I realize she hit me for being gross… Well, it's her fault for offering me the lollipop.
"I'll gladly accept it then… Oh…"
She has an identical ring. Are these really not engagement rings, and she's tricking me into accepting a marriage? Nah, I don't think so. Sylphie doesn't have the malice for that.
"You've got one too. So we'll match, huh?"
"T-They're… friendship rings. I-I hope you don't mind."
…Friendship rings…? What's that? Does it mean our friendship gets stronger by wearing them or something?
Sounds weird… Anyway, ignoring that, I'll buy two more rings for Yuki.
"No problem, don't worry. Thanks a lot."
I put the ring on my right ring finger… Hmm… I don't feel anything magical or anything… Are these just regular rings? Sylphie, I think you got scammed.
I won't say more, but these rings aren't special… Oh, maybe they have some metaphorical meaning? I don't know, and I don't care to find out.
"It's almost 2 p.m. Let's start walking."
"Yeah, let's go."
Sylphie and I began walking toward the crater.
It's about a 10-minute walk, not too far. I hope we don't run into too many couples—it'll be awkward.
"By the way, Saik, y-you look really nice in casual clothes. Seeing you with glasses is kinda rare, but I guess contacts can be a hassle."
"Thanks, Sylphie, though I'm too lazy to bother styling my hair."
I'm wearing a casual outfit Nergio picked out for me. He said it'd make me look more normal. Not sure if I should feel offended or grateful.
A red shirt, black pants, and white shoes. I think it's pretty standard. I prefer all black, but this is fine.
Oh, right, friends support each other. She said I looked nice, so it's my turn.
I'll be honest… Hmm… Her short black hair, large breasts that stand out, paired with that black dress… Black… Is she copying my style? Lately, she's been wearing a lot of black. Black nail polish, black heart-shaped earrings… Nah, I'm probably imagining it. She's not crazy enough to be obsessed with me. Just a coincidence.
"W-What's wrong, Saik?"
Oh, she noticed I was staring too long. Wearing glasses and styling my hair has its downsides.
I made her nervous—she probably thinks I'm sexually harassing her. Don't worry, Sylphie, I'm just looking to say something nice about your outfit.
"You look beautiful in that dress, Sylphie. Black suits you."
…Ugh… This… She stopped walking and just stared at me. Did I say something weird? No, I said something nice. My mom taught me to treat women with respect—I didn't say anything wrong.
Sylphie's face looks weird. She's not trembling with nerves, just staring intensely. This got awkward.
"Uh… Did I say something wrong, Sylphie? Sorry, I just said what I thought."
"Uh… T-This… Uh… D-Do you really think I'm… b-beautiful?"
"As someone of the opposite sex, I think you're beautiful, though beauty doesn't matter to me personally. Your appearance is beautiful, but your kindness and goodness are what matter most. And judging by your reaction, you don't see yourself as beautiful, do you?"
"I… Well… I… You… You…"
…"You"?
"Saik… I… I-I…"
What? Why's she acting so weird…? Oh, is she on those sensitive days women have? I read online that women act strange during their period. That's what it's called, right?
Sylphie's probably having those symptoms—that's why her face is red and she's so nervous. Didn't she put on a pad?
But I don't smell blood. Is it something else?
Sylphie took a deep breath and stepped closer. She seems determined to say something, her nervousness no longer showing. She's controlling her nerves to speak. What's she gonna say…? Oh, shit, I've got a bad feeling.
"S-Saik, I'm…!"
"Saik?! Is that you?!"
Phew, thank god, that was about to get super awkward. What Sylphie said sounded like a confession. I don't have experience with that, but I read a similar scene in Number 31's novel.
The Shadow Paradise members arrived.
A girl my age and an 8-year-old boy are perfect for my plan.
"Uh… Hi? Sorry, but I don't know you."
"I'm Hana, and this is my brother, Yurem. Don't remember me? Not surprising—it's been over 5 years. I was a patient of your mom's."
"Oh, I see. Hi."
"How's your mom?"
"Dead."
"Huh?"
"I'd rather not talk about it."
I glanced left. That bad feeling wasn't about Sylphie—it's something else. Negative energy… So much negative energy in 68 different spots around the city… 68 is too precise… Hercules? This has to be tied to that idiot.
Ugh, what's she planning?
(Extra - Legendary Ghost Number 6, Ghost of Friendship.)
(Pov- Saik, age 6.)
Ugh, elementary school, such a boring place, but comfy for napping in class. Can you blame me for sleeping? Blame the teacher for being so dull.
"This has to be a joke. Get up, idiot!"
Who's shaking me?
Oh, it's this crazy girl.
"Hey, Rossy, people usually wake me up gently. Don't wake me so roughly, you lunatic!"
"You fell asleep in class again!"
"No, no, no, I wasn't asleep. My brain was resting, that's all. The rest of my body was working normally."
"Stop playing dumb and move your ass! My mom's waiting!"
"Us? I can go home alone."
The last idiot who tried to kidnap me got killed by Number 4 in such a gruesome way I'd rather not think about it.
"No way. Let's go. It's your childhood friend's duty to protect you!"
…What's a childhood friend? Better not ask—I don't have the energy.
"Hehe. You looked so cute sleeping, Saik."
Number 4's back.
"Walk!"
"Ugh… Fine."
I took her hand and closed my eyes.
"W-W-What are you doing?!"
"I don't have the energy to use my eyes. Be my guide, and I don't promise to share my homework."
"Deal!"
Heh, she misheard.
We started walking.
"Guess what? Know who has Legendary Ghost Number 6?"
I shook my head.
"A porn actress! Hahaha!"
…Oh… I recently learned about this thing called "sex." It's something adults do to have kids, but also for pleasure… Ugh, I think my parents still have sex… Gross!
B-Better not think about it… A porn actress is a woman who gets paid to have sex. Legendary Ghost Number 6 is a mystery to me. What's its power?
•
•
"You can open your eyes now."
I opened them and saw Rossy's mom in front of me.
"Oh, Saik, are you growing out your hair? It's pretty long."
"Yeah, I don't like people seeing my eyes."
And because I learned I'm the only one who can see ghosts. I can't let people find out about my power—it'd put my family in danger. I stopped talking to the ghosts at school and started growing my hair long so ghosts won't know I can see them.
"Get in, I'll take you for pizza."
"Yay! Pizza!"
Ugh… My diet bans that kind of food. My mom'll be mad if I don't accept the invite… Well, a little won't hurt… I guess.
•
•
We arrived at a fast-food place. Wow, tons of video games and machines. There's even a green bear singing on stage. A robot or something? Whatever. I've got a mission. I'll hit the bathroom and ditch this place. I've got 5 legendary ghosts under my control—I think I can take the wielder of that legendary ghost.
"Let's play!"
Huh?
Rossy grabbed my hand and ran toward the machines.
She's not letting me go easily, huh?
"Come on, I'll crush you!"
Ugh, make it quick.
We played video games for over two damn hours! Two hours!
Even I get bored of playing, but Rossy kept insisting and bugging me to play together.
Well, at least we got a ton of tickets. This should be enough for that sword. I know it's a toy, but it looks real.
Though it won't be easy to get.
"No fair, half the tickets are mine! We're getting the doll that can eat! Your mom's rich—she can buy you the sword later!"
"I got more tickets, so we're getting the sword! A doll's too girly for a tomboy like you!"
"Who're you calling a tomboy, idiot?!"
She started shaking me. I hate when… Oh…
"Hey…"
I grabbed the arm of the kid who took my tickets off the ground.
"Where you going? Those are mine."
Rossy let go, and we looked up at this guy. High schooler? He should be ashamed of stealing from a little kid.
"I found them on the ground, so they're mine now."
A girl snatched the tickets Rossy was holding.
"Hey, those are mine!"
"They're mine now."
"Come on, babe, I'll get you that cute…"
I kicked the guy's legs, and he hit the ground.
"Huh?"
I put my hand on his chest and raised my fist.
"Saik?"
"No one steals from me."
I started pounding his face with all my strength, ignoring his cries of pain. 4… 9… 13 hits. I got 13 punches in before Rossy stopped me.
"T-That's enough."
"I see."
I took back my tickets and grabbed the ones the girl stole from Rossy.
"Tch. Let's go."
"H-Hey, you're bleeding! Your nose is bleeding!"
He ran off, and his girlfriend followed.
"…Hey, Saik, you're… changing."
"I just defended myself, that's all. I wasn't gonna let them steal my tickets."
I handed her all the tickets.
"Go get that doll. You win. I'll hit the bathroom."
"Y-You sure?"
"Yeah, don't worry. I'll ask my mom to buy me the sword later."
"…T-Thanks a lot."
I went to the bathroom… Nope, nothing. No security cameras, and no one's inside.
I activated my Shadow form and left. No one can see me, so I'm good.
I slipped out and started running. According to Number 4, the wielder's at a party, in a bar or… club? Something like that, I don't remember.
•
•
Five minutes later, I arrived… Hmm… It's getting dark. I need to hurry.
A guy's guarding the entrance, not letting just anyone in. A bunch of people are in line. Weird. Is this some big party?
Oh, a couple's going in. I slipped in with them… Ugh…
"S-Sorry."
I feel eyes on me. Is the illusion failing?
"The wielder's power is stopping us from hiding."
"Why?"
"No clue… I feel like I can't lie to her."
True… I feel more honest… Well, at least my Shadow disguise is holding.
I walked through the crowd. The music's loud, people are dancing and drinking, and I'm getting a lot of looks.
"Hey, the costume party's not 'til Halloween! Hahaha!"
"Hey, shorty, come have a drink with us!"
A drink? Sounds interesting. Hope they've got apple juice.
I sat at their table, and they offered me something that smells weird.
"What's the costume for?"
"To hide my identity."
"Huh?"
"That voice… You a little kid?"
"Yeah. By the way, I'm looking for a woman named Hinawa. Seen her?"
"Oh, yeah, I know her. She's in the VIP room, upstairs."
"Thanks."
I took a sip but spat it out. This tastes awful.
"Think I'll pass. Bye."
I left and headed for the stairs, or tried to. Two guys grabbed my arms.
"Hey, who let you in?"
"Number 1."
Number 1 came out of my body and stabbed their eyes. They let go, and I kept going.
While they screamed in pain from their destroyed eyes, I reached the VIP room. Yeah, Number 1 overdid it—he really wrecked their eyes.
"Was that necessary?"
"It'll buy us time."
"I see."
We entered the VIP room… Ugh… Oh…
"You like that, slut?! You love my big dick, don't you, bitch?!"
"I love it! Punish this bad girl!"
…Oh… Is this sex? It's grosser than I imagined. I avoided internet videos because it grossed me out, but now I'm seeing it… Disgusting.
Do I really have to put my dick in that thing someday? Yuck.
"Huh? Hey, kid, who let you in?!"
Number 4 appeared behind him and… Huh?
"Hahaha! So fun, he's wriggling like a fish out of water!"
Number 4 cut off his dick with a knife… He'll die… Ugh… I didn't plan to kill him… It wasn't even necessary… Number 4's crazy. Better not say anything.
"Kya!"
The wielder of Legendary Ghost Number 6 fell to the ground, crying.
"Y-You can see ghosts too?"
"I've got a question. Why do you sell your body? I'm 6, and this seems gross. Do you really enjoy it? I wonder if I'll enjoy it when I grow up."
"I… I just wanted easy money. I-I like sex and money. T-There's nothing wrong with working at something I enjoy!"
"I see. Don't worry, I respect you doing what you love. Oh, yeah, if you don't want to die, give me the ghost inside you."
"Y-You'll let me live if I do? Promise?"
"Sure."
"…Okay. Will it hurt?"
"I don't think so. I don't know."
I put my hand on her face and absorbed her legendary ghost. That was easy. My body hurts all over, but at least I didn't get physical wounds. I can't lift my left arm, but it's temporary.
"Huh?"
She vomited blood and collapsed… Huh?
"She dead?"
"Forgot to tell you—wielders who lose their legendary ghosts die because their hearts explode," Number 1 said.
Oh… Sorry? I didn't know. Mom, I know I broke a promise, but I really didn't know.
"Better get out before…"
"Boss! Alert, a midget killed the boss!"
Shit.
•
•
"Did you have fun today?"
"Yeah! And I got a doll!"
"That was sweet of you to give Rossy your tickets, Saik."
"Thanks…"
"You okay? You look tired."
"Just sleepy."
The light turned red, and a bunch of cop cars sped by.
"Wow. Wonder what happened, Mom?"
"No idea."
…Hold on, Saik… Hold on.
•
•
I got home and went straight to my room. I took off my shirt and checked my stomach. S-Shit, it's still inside.
"You got shot, Saik. It was tough keeping the blood in," Number 1 said.
"I-It hurts…"
"Don't cry, tough it out. I'll get the first aid kit."
He left, and Number 4 turned on the TV.
"Hmm… Let's see…"
She searched for news online… Ugh, what's she looking at now? I'm bleeding out, and she's watching news.
"Hahaha! 34 confirmed dead, and you only took one bullet! You should be proud, Saik."
"You killed them."
"Nope, I killed 32. You killed two. Tell me, how's it feel to kill again?"
"It hurts."
"Hurts? Aw, and here I thought you were a heartless monster. Did killing a human hurt you? Poor thing. Hahaha!"
"No, the wound hurts. Killing someone didn't make me feel anything."
"Huh? For real?"
"Yeah, I felt nothing."
"…Wow… You're definitely a weird one."
"I think… I'm gonna… pass out."
I collapsed on the bed.
Six legendary ghosts under my control. 94 to go.