CHAPTER 58 - The Island. Part 1.
(Pov - Sylphie.)
The camp is so... ugly. Everything is so gray, there's stagnant water that stinks up the place, dead animals, the cabins are so old they're about to collapse... I love it!
I know it's a horrible place, but if I can complete this test and not give up, it'll mean I'm making progress! I don't want to be useless like I was in the past. I don't want to be a burden to my class.
When I got off the bus, the first thing I heard was complaints about how awful this place is. Everyone probably thought the camp would be like the ones in movies. I'll admit, I also thought it would be more cheerful and fun, but this is even more exciting.
If the camp is this ugly, I can't imagine how awful the island will be. But I know Saik will pass the test, and I'll pass it too! Alright, Sylphie, it's time to show you can be useful to the class. Let's go!
I walked toward the camp entrance without hesitating much. Only a few others, including Ram, did the same since the ground is wet. My shoes are getting dirty, but I don't care. Playing in the dirt has always been normal for me since I was a little girl, so getting muddy doesn't bother me at all.
The students come from very wealthy families, so they're elegant. They probably feel out of place. Being poor will give me an advantage here. Haha... Ha... I guess I shouldn't feel proud of being poor.
I'm a pretty sensitive girl; my eyes water just from smelling the foul air in this place, but I have to endure it. Sylphie, Saik will be proud of you if you pass the test! You can do it!
Saik has worked so hard for me. I won't let him down.
"Wow. You've changed a lot, Sylphie. You don't seem shy anymore."
"Shy...? Well... I guess... I don't feel shy."
I think I'm getting used to talking to people. I always talk to Saik at school, so I'm starting to get comfortable talking to others.
... Well... I think... I guess I used to feel shy in the past because I was afraid people would make fun of me or hit me, but now that Saik protects me, I feel more confident. My insecurity is slowly fading.
But relying so much on Saik is also a bad thing. I won't always be able to count on his help. If I always depend on him, I'll become useless.
"I see... Saik has had a big influence on your life. That guy is pretty mysterious, but interesting at the same time. I'd love to know what he's really thinking... I guess you know about his past, Sylphie. Why did he change so much?"
"Huh? Change? What do you mean?"
"You don't know? I guess you haven't looked into it. I'll leave it as homework for you."
She walked away from me... Did Saik change? What does she mean by change?
... No... I shouldn't care about his past. I won't look into it. His past shouldn't matter to me, and if Saik hasn't talked about it, it's because he doesn't want to.
If I investigate, Saik might think I'm nosy. I won't do it. I won't.
•
•
After welcoming us to the camp, they assigned us our rooms. They're divided into three sections: low class, high class, and luxury class. For now, we'll all sleep in the low-class rooms, but with the tests starting tomorrow, we can move up in class, which will improve our lifestyle here, giving us better bathrooms, better food, and allowing us to use our phones. In the luxury class, students will be allowed to use their phones and have internet access.
But honestly, I'd be fine with just the high class. I don't think I can make it to the luxury class.
The beds look very uncomfortable; they're just mattresses on the floor with no sheets, so we'll be sleeping cold.
I'm sure there'll be a test today to earn sheets, so I need to prepare.
For now, all we're doing is exploring the place... Ah... Being without Saik is boring.
•
•
(Pov - Kaeyko.)
My break started, so I went to the staff lounge to eat a burger. I'm allowed to have one burger and a drink per day, for free. I've never gone hungry in my life since my family has enough money to use as toilet paper, but now that I've started living on my own, I'm experiencing hunger. I prefer to eat twice a day and save the money for dinner. My parents still pay for school, so I don't worry about that.
"Phew! Being a worker is harder than I thought, bro. At least I got the numbers of three girls! Dark-skinned girls are the best!"
"Ether, you know those girls only gave you their numbers because you told them, and confirmed, that your parents are millionaires, right?"
"Ugh, Kaeyko, buddy, you're so naive. Nowadays, romantic guys with good feelings aren't valued by women anymore. What they want are men who can give them the luxuries they desire! I give them money, and they give me their butts. A win-win."
"That's basically prostitution."
"It's not like I'm interested in falling in love with anyone. I just want to enjoy my teenage years!"
Ugh, let him do whatever he wants with his life. But if he keeps living like that, he'll probably end up with some incurable STD.
Sex... Honestly, yeah, I'm pretty curious about it and want to try it, but I hate people in general. I'd rather wait and meet a woman in college. College women are more mature than teenage girls.
"Oh... Wow, that was fast. Look, Kaeyko, someone already quit."
"Quit?"
He showed me an email the school sent. The student from Class C, Kevs, dropped out of the test.
"Wow..."
Kaey started whimpering sadly. Yeah, it's pretty sad. He's probably depressed over his girlfriend's supposed cheating. Tanya, you really have my admiration and hatred. You managed to weaken Class C in a single day by breaking the vice president's heart.
I know depression; I've been through it. I'd like to support him, but I'd rather not get into trouble with Tanya and just ignore the issue.
Poor guy. I bet he's crying his eyes out right now.
•
•
(Pov - Kevs.)
Poor Kevs, your tears won't stop flowing from your eyes. Poor thing, you're crying... Of course I'm crying, these Elves are crazy!
"Move your ass, idiot! I didn't order you to lie on the ground!"
"Then stop crushing me with your foot!"
"Don't talk back to me so rudely, you disgusting human!"
She kicked me hard in the stomach. D-d-d-d... Damn crazy woman!!! Aren't Elves supposed to be kind?! Elves are insane!
This Elf is kicking me just because I "took too long" packing my humble belongings into my suitcase. Argh! Kevs, you need to calm down, or they'll kill you if you mistreat her!
"Tch. Why did she choose you? At least she could've left me with a handsome human instead of a disgusting, ugly human like you."
Stop complaining, I'm the one who should be complaining! I was forced to take care of you! If it were up to me, I'd let the government capture you for painful experiments!
Ugh. A lot of guys have a foot fetish, but not me. I prefer girls with small breasts. This Elf is putting her disgusting foot in my face!
"At least I hope your mansion is nice, human."
"Kevs."
"What did you say?"
"My name is Kevs, not human. If we're going to live together, at least call me by my name."
"Tch. I'll call you whatever I want!"
She tried to jump on my stomach, but I rolled to the side. She crushed my arm but slipped and fell face-first. Hahahahaha! Well done, Kevs! She deserved it!
Argh! Idiot! Kevs, you're an idiot! Now she'll hit you even worse!
But, Kevs, look on the bright side. Her fall hurt her, and from this angle, we can see her underwear and her butt. If we're going to die, we'll die happy.
I'd rather stay alive!
I covered my eyes and got up from the ground as fast as I could.
"It was your fault!"
"Argh! Damn you!"
She got up and grabbed me by the neck.
I'm seeing my life flash before my eyes, and it's so boring! I don't want to die yet!
"Your Majesty, don't harm the human. We need him alive, at least for now."
What do you mean "for now"?! They promised me I'd live! Keep your word, it's the only payment I'm getting for this!
"Tch."
She let me go, and I sighed in relief. Phew, Syln, you arrived just in time.
"I've gathered basic information about this world. We can leave."
With the devices they have, they look human, except for their clothes, but Syln already took care of that. She went to get normal clothes from this world and information. She used some kind of magical object that made her invisible, so she avoided being seen by security cameras. As expected from a warrior... I think she's a warrior or something like that.
Ugh... Why doesn't Syln take care of the princess? I hate that they keep secrets from me, but I'm too scared to ask too many questions, or I might die.
Syln has to deal with some things in this world, so I guess that's the main reason she's not taking care of the princess. I wonder if it's about a Demon King or if she's just looking for Shadow. Syln asked me if I knew him, but I have no idea who he is. Is it some kind of demon? They won't tell me anything, so I guess I'll never know. As long as they don't kill me, I'll be satisfied.
"Your Majesty, what name will you use in this world? I got a list of the most common ones."
"Any recommendations?"
"I recommend the name 'Emily Leah.' It suits your appearance perfectly."
"Hmm... It sounds weird, but I guess it'll work."
Emily Leah? First time I've heard that name. Leah... Leah... Where does that name come from?
"We'll get the IDs at the bus station. Let's go."
Ugh... Who did she ask for them? Are there more Elves in this world? Are there more magical beings? Argh! I don't understand anything anymore!
I grabbed my suitcase and opened the door. Complaining won't help, so I'd better accept my fate.
I hope my grandpa understands the situation.
Stupid Elves. Kevs, what if we abandon them and escape far away?
Idiot, these Elves have the support of some secret organization of fantasy beings or something. They'd find us easily, kill us, and make my death look like a suicide.
Oh, right, Kevs. I'm an idiot.
We're idiots. We're the same person.
Oh, yeah, that's right... Are we going crazy?
"Definitely."
•
•
(Pov - Saik.)
Ugh... Ugh... Ugh...
With nothing to do... Boring... Naima is avoiding me, Hanako went to sleep... Ugh... I have nothing to do.
Yuki went off somewhere, probably to see the ship.
Ugh... So relaxing and boring at the same time.
What do teenagers my age do when they're bored? I hear they talk to their friends, but I don't have friends. Play games? Nah, I don't feel like playing.
Cristal invited me to play, but I'm not in the mood.
What can I do to entertain myself...? What would a teenager do?
... Masturbate? I don't know... It's a very common activity among teenagers, but I don't think I'd like it... Well... I guess trying it wouldn't hurt. If I want to be normal, I should at least masturbate once a week or once a month. How often do teenagers do it? I don't know. My parents talked to me about masturbation, but it was such an awkward topic that I don't remember much of what they said. I barely remembered they even talked to me about it. Hmm... I think they said there's nothing wrong with it as long as it doesn't become an addiction. Is masturbation addictive? Well, I shouldn't worry about that; I'm immune to addictions.
I'm alone in my cabin, and there are no security cameras. There's a small window on the door, so I'll cover it with something.
I got up and covered the window with a towel. Good, perfect.
Now, alright... How do you do it? I lay on the bed and unbuttoned my pants... Ugh... This is awkward.
I pulled down my pants and slipped my hand under my underwear.
"... I think I'm regretting this. Masturbating seems kind of gross."
Yeah... It's grossing me out. I don't understand why teenagers love masturbating. Isn't it better to have sex than to touch your own private parts? Oh, right, sex could be dangerous because of pregnancies and diseases.
"I'd better not do it."
"Argh! Don't leave me hanging!"
"Huh?"
Number 31 landed on me and put her butt on my crotch... Ugh, I'm so weak I didn't sense her presence. Being weak makes me feel very human, but it's also dangerous, considering the enemies I have.
"Masturbate or let me do it for you!" Number 31 said as her butt started moving, rubbing my crotch with her movements.
Oh... I have to admit, this feels weird, but not bad weird—strange and pleasant weird.
I think I'm becoming a normal person because I'm getting an erection.
If Number 31 were alive, I'd make her my girlfriend, but since she's a ghost, I can't have a relationship with her because normal people only date living people. Although, I've heard that Otakus are attracted to women who only exist in anime. Isn't this kind of similar? I don't think so.
"Number 31, while this is an interesting experience, I have to ask you to stop. It's not normal for a ghost to do this to me."
"I don't want to! You got me all hot and bothered, so take responsibility!"
"I didn't ask you to spy on me, so it's not my fault."
Number 31 grabbed my hands and brought her face too close to mine... Wow, she looks angry, though I think she's just desperate.
... Oh... This scene reminds me of an NTR story. A husband didn't have sex with his wife because he came home tired from work, and his wife sought comfort with another man.
Well, Number 31 isn't my girlfriend, so if she decides to go with another man, it shouldn't affect me.
"At least let me touch it!"
Hmm... Touch it? Well... I guess that's normal. Normal ghosts usually spy on people but can't touch them. But Number 31 is a legendary ghost; she can touch anything she wants. Letting her touch a little probably won't affect my normal life. As long as she doesn't try to go too far, I guess it's fine.
"You can touch, but if you try to masturbate me, I won't let you out for a long time."
"It's a promise!!"
No need to shout. Ugh, I'm already regretting this. Why am I so nice to Number 31? Oh, right, because of her loyalty... Ugh, you're lucky I'm a grateful guy, Number 31.
I sound like someone evil, but I'm not. If I were evil, I wouldn't give any legendary ghost free time, and this world would be my bitch. Ugh, world, you're so lucky I'm a lazy guy who just wants to finish high school and then kill himself.
"S-s-so hard... A-and it's bigger than I remembered."
Huh? Big? I guess that's good, though I wish it were smaller.
According to my research on normal things, the average size is 13 centimeters. Ugh, I wish I had that size.
Unfortunately, when my soul improved, it also enhanced my body in every way—my strength, reflexes, sense of taste, hearing... my entire body. Basically, it turned me into a superhuman. That's way too unfair in my opinion, but I didn't know. When I started researching normality, I realized my body is far from average or normal.
Oh... Should I be a porn actor? If I weren't planning to kill myself, I think I'd be a porn actor. I read online that they make a lot of money. I have the perfect body and member for it. I'd live comfortably without any trouble. Plus, my legendary ghosts could help me become the best porn actor and make millions.
A former bearer of a legendary ghost was a porn actress, and from what I learned about her, she lived a life of luxury.
Easy money... Though I think my parents wouldn't approve of that job.
Ugh... I just realized my member feels weird... Is Number 31...?
"I don't want to look at what you're doing, but tell me it's not what I'm imagining."
"Hmmph?"
Yeah, she's got something in her mouth... Oral violation.
I didn't let her keep touching my body, and she passed through my body and the bed.
"At least let me finish what I started!"
I pulled up my pants and got out of bed.
"On your knees."
"Of course!"
She got on her knees in front of me, closed her eyes, and stuck out her tongue.
"Give it to me, give it to me!"
... What does she think I'm going to do? Ugh, Number 31, why are you such a pervert? I prefer your outgoing and fun side; your perverted side makes me uncomfortable.
"10,000 push-ups and 10,000 sit-ups."
"Huh? I thought you were going to give me your...!"
I covered her mouth and looked into her eyes.
"10,000 push-ups and 10,000 sit-ups. That's your punishment for abusing me."
I removed my hand, and she crossed her arms, indignant and pouting. This time, your cute expressions won't work on you, violator.
"It's not fair, I couldn't help it!"
I yawned and lay back on the bed.
"You're forbidden from talking until you finish."
"Hmmph!"
She started doing the push-ups quickly. Hmm... I think she'll finish in four hours. I'll sleep in the meantime; I have nothing else to do.
"Excuse me, Master, is the romantic moment over? I need to give you my report."
Oh, Numbers 4 and 30, I forgot I sent you two as well.
"Don't worry, Number 30. Besides, it wasn't a romantic moment. It would've been if Number 31 had hugged me or taken the chance to kiss me on the lips or cheek, but no, she wasted her opportunity and abused me."
"Hmmph?!"
"Yeah, I might've given her a kiss on the cheek, but she missed out, being a violator."
"Hmmph!"
Ugh... Is sex and everything related to it really that interesting and addictive? I don't find it interesting. My member still feels weird. Does it taste good? In all the NTR stories I had to read for my manga's plot, women licked the members of fat men or tanned, blonde men, and they seemed to enjoy it. I know it's fantasy, so I also researched the topic online, and it's pretty normal for women to do that with their partners.
Does it taste good, or why do women like doing it? Though I've also heard men are the ones who enjoy it.
Ugh... This world is full of mysteries and enigmatic things. Being normal is getting harder and harder for me.
"Hahahahaha! You looked like a desperate woman, Number 31! You should've seen yourself when you were sucking it. It looked like you were really going to eat it! Hahahahaha! Even I felt the suction," said Number 4.
"Ugh... Let's stop talking about it. What happened—will it ruin my normal life?"
"The twins, the servants of the Ghost Goddess, killed the magical familiar of the former Elf Queen," said Number 30.
"I see... Anything else?"
"They threatened to kill you if you help Nergio or the ghost-hunting organization."
"Oh... That means I'm safe. Whatever they do doesn't concern me. Well, I'll sleep like a baby. Good night."
"But, Master, shouldn't we investigate why there are Elves in this world?"
"As long as they don't ruin my normal school life, I won't do anything about it."
"Alright, Master."
They returned to my body, except for Number 31, who was still serving her punishment.
Elves in this world... Well, they have powerful magic, but compared to Nergio's powers and the leader of the ghost-hunting organization, that magic won't do them any good against them. Yeah, I won't get involved in those matters; they shouldn't concern me at all.
I closed my eyes. Alright, time to sleep.
•
•
(Pov - Kevs.)
The Elves, disguised as humans, are looking out the window at the scenery. Goodbye, Capital. Kevs, we didn't even get to enjoy our trip.
True, Kevs. We couldn't enjoy the cruise because we found out our girlfriend cheated on us, and now we couldn't enjoy the Capital because a magical cat forced us to take care of a stupid Elf. This makes no sense, and it's not fair... Huh?
What's that?
Now that I notice, Syln has a book hanging from her waist. Could it be some kind of grimoire...? Is that what they call magical books? I don't know.
What catches my attention about the book is the cover. White feathers? Yeah, feathers. The entire cover is decorated with white feathers. What's it about?
"Excuse me, Miss Syln, could you tell me about that book? It looks very interesting."
"Tch. Here, don't talk to me."
She threw the book at my face. Ouch, that hurt, but my pride hurts more because people laughed at me.
We're at the back of the bus to sit together and avoid any human making the mistake of bothering them. Syln paid for the extra seats. Where did she get the money? I don't care, and I don't want to know. The three seats next to us are occupied by our suitcases.
Some idiots tried to sit next to us to talk to the Elves, but I stopped them by saying we paid for the extra seats and to sit somewhere else. Some insulted me and threatened to hit me, but I didn't show fear, mainly because I suspect the police officer who got on the bus is an ally of the Elves, as he's kept those idiots from harming me.
The Elves are beautiful, so a lot of people are staring at them. I warned them this would happen and to ignore the looks because if they do something stupid, it'll draw attention, and that's something we need to avoid. They have to act like humans, not Elves.
And how did they thank me for the advice? They kicked me in the crotch and yelled, "I know!"
Stupid Elves, I'll betray them at the first chance I get. Generic villains, come on, I'll hand over the Elves in exchange for my freedom.
Ugh, Kevs, I highly doubt those villains would let you live. My life is ruined. At least I'll try to enjoy it.
I'm going to die, I'm sure of it. I'm in a situation as weird as it is dangerous. Elves, giant cats, secret organizations... Ugh... I'd better enjoy the time I have left.
I'll get a girlfriend, have sex, visit new places, and have fun. Hahahahaha! No one will stop me from enjoying what's left of my life!
... Hey, Kevs.
What's up, Kevs?
Are you forgetting you have to take care of the shitty Elf?
Oh, right.
And I highly doubt she'll give us any free time.
Y-yeah, you're right... We're basically her slaves.
Exactly. Plus, do you really think we'll get a girlfriend? We're ugly and not even charismatic. We're boring, ugly, and lonely. I highly doubt any girl would look at us and think, "Ugh, that boring, ugly guy is so hot. I want him to split me in two with his huge..." Ugh, we don't even have a big one.
I-I get it! Stop insulting me. Besides, we're above average.
But not big.
What's the point of having a big one? What matters is how long it stays erect!
Yeah, you're right... Well, it's clear it's impossible for us to get a girlfriend. Oh, and we don't trust women. I think we're doomed to be cheated on.
What if we hire a prostitute? It doesn't count as a girlfriend, but it could satisfy our sexual curiosity.
We won't get any free time, and we don't have money.
Oh... I hate being poor.
Hey, our grandpa doesn't bust his ass working for you to insult him!
Oh, don't worry, I love our grandpa, I just hate our poverty. I'm not ashamed of him. Don't worry.
You'd better not be, or I was about to punch you.
But... We're the same person, idiot.
Oh... Right... I think we're going crazy.
"Ugh... Yeah, crazy."
Whatever, I'd better read the book. Maybe it has weird drawings of creatures from another world.
I opened the book... Huh?
[Text or video?]
... I-I was about to scream in fear, but my inner self yelled at me not to, as it would draw attention and only bring me pain.
S-some kind of hologram or magical screen appeared in front of me with that message. C-can everyone see it?
"M-Miss Syln. C-can you see the text floating there?"
"Tch. Only you can see and hear it. The others won't know what you're seeing."
"Oh... Can I select the video option without worrying?"
"Yes. And stop talking to me, your breath stinks."
"S-sorry."
Oh... I see... I'll be able to enjoy the magic of this book without fear of being discovered.
Ugh... But staring forward for so long would look suspicious... Can I move it?
I moved my finger toward the magical screen... Oh... I can touch it like it's a real object.
Yeah... I can position it wherever I want. I'll put it on my lap and pretend I'm watching a video on my phone so no one suspects.
Alright... Time to see the content.
I tapped the "video" option.
[Content suitable for adults or censored?]
... Oh... Will it contain nudity or blood? I'm underage, but I don't think anyone will notice what I'm watching. Hehe.
I tapped the "adult" option, the magical screen grew a bit larger, and it started playing a video. Wow... What's it about? Will it be tales of Elf legends? Wow. I hope I learn a bit more about Elf culture.
[The Legend of the Hero Angel and His Reincarnations.]
The Hero Angel? Oh, no wonder the cover has white feathers. A real angel... Awesome, paradise really exists! I'm sure I'll go to paradise; I haven't done anything wrong in my life!
But... The Hero Angel... What kind of hero will he be?
... Huh?
The video is showing a modern city. W-wait, that city doesn't look like a city from a magical world. Do magical worlds look too much like this world? What a disappointment, I was expecting something more medieval.
["P-please, stop!"]
Wow... A little boy being beaten by three other kids. They're kicking him, while a fourth kid is destroying the poor boy's notebooks and books. Does bullying exist in magical worlds too? But those kids are humans, not Elves. This is weird.
["No!"]
The boy is crying and bleeding. Poor thing... Huh?
... A-are they urinating on him? That's disgusting! I want to vomit! I'm pretty sensitive to gross things.
["Hahahahaha! Next time, don't go crying to the teacher."]
Damn them. I hope the "+18" is for blood and that those kids get killed by some monster.
This looks like a movie. Did it really happen? Is it a recreation of the hero's legend?
... Hmm... I'm moving forward without any issues...
...
...
...
Ugh... This... Where's the action?
I've been watching this for five minutes, and it's just showing the boy crying as he walks home.
Is that boy the protagonist? Why are they bullying him? That boy is... well, a normal kid. He's not fat, not too ugly... Why are they bullying him? I doubt it's because of his appearance. Is he shy? That would make him the perfect prey... Wow!
["Huh?"]
Huh? What?! A black circle appeared under him, and arms came out of it! T-they grabbed him!
["Help!!"]
I-it swallowed him... The circle ate that boy! Do carnivorous circles exist in the other world?! So cool and terrifying! The monsters in the other world are scarier than I thought... Oh... He was taken somewhere else.
It didn't eat him; it took him to another place. Is it like a teleportation platform?
The scene changed. That circle took him to a dark place. A forest? Wow, wow. What's going to happen now?
... Oh... S-shit. Some humanoid beings are approaching him.
The boy, scared, started screaming again, and the humanoid monsters captured him.
Are they going to eat him?
...
...
...
Ten minutes passed, and nothing happened. They're just taking him somewhere while the boy cries and screams. This is boring. Are they going to tell the hero's story without skipping any details? That's boring!
"Can it be fast-forwarded?"
[How much time would you like to skip?]
Oh, it can be done.
Hmm...
"Two hours."
Yeah, that's enough time for them to reach their destination, I guess.
The scene changed, and...
"Huh?! That's disgusting! Cancel, cancel!"
I closed the book as fast as I could, and the video disappeared.
Everyone turned to look at me. Ugh, I couldn't help it!
"Hey, idiot, don't shout!"
"S-sorry. I saw something gross."
T-that boy was... nine years old? Something like that.
A-and that boy was being... He was being...
Ugh... So disgusting... Those monsters were sexually abusing him... This book contains pedophilia! What's wrong with the Elves?! Why do they have that kind of content in their magical books?!
Argh! I won't be able to get that disgusting image out of my mind! Poor boy.
"Hehe. Yeah, what happened to the Hero Angel is disgusting. Not everyone can handle seeing everything he went through, much less a stupid human from this sensitive world," said Syln.
"Who directed this movie? It's too realistic."
"It's real. What you saw really happened."
"Huh? W-what?"
"All of that is real."
"D-did the Hero Angel exist?"
"Yes."
"Oh... I see."
Hero Angel, I'll never complain about my life again.
Extra - Legendary Ghost Number 16, the Ghost of Eroticism.
(Pov - Saik, 6 years old.)
"Ugh..."
A long sigh came from Hanako. I-is she bored? I-I thought this was fun.
"S-sorry, Hanako. I don't play much, so I don't know any more fun games. Forgive me for boring you."
"N-no, I'm not bored! It's really fun playing with you, Shadow! I-I was just thinking that they'll never let us play in peace."
Phew. A huge sigh of relief came from me. I thought I was ruining it! Thank you for being honest with me, Hanako! I promise to be the best husband in the world...! Well, if you accept my love, I'll be the best husband. I have to wait until we're older!
And yeah, the ghost hunters really don't let us play in peace. They're pointing their weapons at me while I play with Hanako.
It's been like this for two months. They never let me play with her without supervision!
Ugh... These ghost hunters are so troublesome. And powerful!
They have more than 24 legendary ghost bearers, or so I've counted. And they're much stronger than me.
How have I avoided getting killed? Easy. I stole a bomb from the government and hid it in the city. If they try to kill me, I'll set it off. Of course, they didn't believe I was capable of that, so when they tried to attack me, I set off another bomb I stole, which completely destroyed hectares of crops, and I warned them that was the first and last warning. If they try to kill me again, I'll set off the bigger bomb.
Thank you, politician who tried to blackmail my mom. Thank you for giving me the bombs in exchange for sparing your life. Well, Number 4 ended up killing him anyway.
Ugh, being a scary being has its perks.
I also have a bomb in my chest in case they find the one I hid. I'll use my spiritual power to detonate it if I need to, so I'm not afraid to die. They're waiting for me to let my guard down, but that'll never happen. Hanako's beauty distracts me a lot, but I won't lower my guard!
I've kept those bearers at a distance since I don't think I can defeat them. But I've got my eye on one of them.
The bearer of legendary ghost Number 16.
Her bearer is a woman who's always in her underwear. I don't know if it's to better use her legendary ghost or if she's just a pervert.
Anyway, I already know how to kill her, but there's a problem.
The beauty in front of me.
Hanako... I don't want her to hate me; I want to keep being her friend, but my dream is much more important. I plan to collect all the legendary ghosts, no matter if I have to kill to get them.
"B-by the way, Hanako, here. I brought you a gift."
I took a box of chocolates out of my little backpack. My dad told me that flowers and boxes of chocolates, while very typical gifts, still work as romantic gifts. I was going to give her flowers too, but that would be too forward of me. I have to take it step by step! I don't want her to think I'm annoying.
Yeah, I know, we're too young for this kind of thing, but we're both very mature for our age. Me because I had to give up my childhood to survive, and Hanako because, since she was little, she's been forbidden from acting like a little girl since her family is an elite ghost-hunting family. She has to train and not waste time on childish things like games.
That hurt me. Hanako should enjoy her childhood; don't decide her life for her, idiots!
Ugh... Well... I-I hope she accepts them.
"My grandma told me friends give each other gifts. Here, I promise they're delicious."
"T-thank you so much!"
Yes, she accepted them...! Huh?
Who dared to snatch my gift?!
"Don't accept them, Hanako, they might be poisoned...! Uwaaah!"
Number 4 came out of me and held a knife right in front of that idiot's right eye.
"That gift is for the lovely Hanako."
"L-lovely?" said Hanako.
S-shit, I hope I didn't make her uncomfortable! The words just slip out.
"If I wanted to kill her, she'd already be dead. She's my friend; I'd never hurt a friend. Now, idiot, give me those chocolates and get out of my sight."
"Hehe. I think he deserves a punishment!"
Number 4 ripped out his eye with her hand... Ugh... Argh!
"Idiot, what are you doing?! I didn't order you to do that!"
"Sorry, I couldn't help it. That idiot dared to bother you."
The man fell to the ground and started screaming as the others approached me with their weapons, ready to fight.
"You ruined everything! Hanako, this wasn't my fault! Number 4 is crazy!"
"D-don't worry, I know Number 4's story. I know she's crazy."
"Tch. Only Shadow can call me crazy, brat..."
"Don't make it worse and come back!"
Number 4 returned to my body, and trembling, I picked up the box of chocolates from the ground.
"P-please, let's forget this happened. W-would you accept my humble gift?"
"O-of course!" said Hanako with a beautiful smile.
So adorable! Hanako, you're gorgeous! This is the first time I've felt this way about a girl! You make a boring guy like me feel so happy! God, thank you for letting me be born in the same era as Hanako!
She took the box with her hands while the man beside me lost his life.
Ugh... I think I'd better move the plan forward. Hanako is used to seeing corpses and blood, but it'd be best if we forgot about what just happened. I'll replace this memory with a more shocking one.
"Huh? W-what?! What's that?!" Hanako shouted.
Time to act.
"Ugh... I think it's a giant water monster. It might be a legendary ghost! Shit, it's in the sea. I don't know how to swim... Well, I'll try fighting from a distance. Sorry, Hanako, I'll be back tomorrow. That legendary ghost will be mine!"
"W-wait, it's dangerous! Do you really not know how to swim?!"
"I haven't had time to learn, but don't worry, I'll be fine...! I guess. I'll stay away from the sea just in case. I can't hold my breath. See you tomorrow!"
I turned invisible and escaped from that place.
Of course, that legendary ghost is Number 7, the water ghost.
The sea is next to the city. I asked Number 7 to grow as huge as possible. I understand the organization prevents things like this from being seen by normal people. Hanako told me she still doesn't know how, but it's possible to hide paranormal events from normal people. No wonder the people in the city aren't scared; they can't see it.
The organization's leader tried to get answers from me about my life and my purpose with the legendary ghosts, but I followed Number 1's advice and didn't tell him anything, not even Hanako. Number 1 told me to just be friends with Hanako and not let the ghost-hunting organization get too close to me, as they could kill me at any moment. I can't trust them.
They don't know I have Number 7 under my control, and I'll take advantage of that by creating a villain.
"Everyone must kneel before me, the great Dianney!!" shouted the water giant.
Dian journée was the first name that came to mind. She'll take the credit for what I'm about to do because I don't want Hanako to hate me.
I reached the beach, and in the distance, I can see the ghost hunters fighting the water. Idiots, Number 7 can control water from a certain distance. She's at the bottom of the sea, far from you.
Now, alright, time to act.
"Hey, I saw it first...! Uwaaah!"
The giant's huge fist hit me, and I crashed into the sand. S-shit, she overdid it, idiot. That hurt a lot.
I investigated the bearer. She's an outgoing, kind, and fun girl. In other words, a good person. I'm a little kid. If Number 7 does this, I'm sure she'll try to save me.
"Hahahahaha! You have lots of legendary ghosts! They'll be mine!"
Water tentacles came out of the sea and grabbed me.
"S-shit..."
They submerged me and dragged me to the bottom of the sea.
... Oh... It worked.
The woman and another member dove in to save me.
No... They dove in to kill me and take my legendary ghosts. How aggressive! And here I thought you were a good person.
This is going to hurt.
I pretended to be desperate, and all the air in my lungs came out of my mouth.
Number 1, now.
Number 1 lowered my heart rate until I was almost dead. The only reason I'm still alive is my connection to my legendary ghosts. As long as my heart stays intact and they're alive, I'll stay alive. I can only do this for 10 seconds, but it's enough time.
The bearer put her hand on my chest and tried to steal my legendary ghosts. Did she really fall for my trap? Wow, wow.
Numbers 4 and 30 came out of my body. Number 30 slit the bearer's throat with her claws, and Number 4 bit the man's neck so hard she tore off a huge chunk.
My heart rate returned to normal, and I placed my hand on one of the woman's breasts.
She looked at me with a terrified expression. Yeah, you never imagined I'd be capable of tricking you like this, did you? I don't care about playing dirty as long as I get what I want.
She was running out of energy, so she couldn't resist. I absorbed her legendary ghost, and her heart exploded, finally killing her. I also destroyed her soul to prevent her from returning as a ghost... Or that was the plan.
"What?! I became a ghost?!"
Ugh... I'm running out of oxygen. Sorry, woman, but I need to get some air.
I turned invisible and got out of the water. I ran away. In about two minutes, Number 7 will make that monster disappear and return to my body. In other words, I won.
But there's a problem.
After running for over 20 minutes, I reached my house and lay on the floor of my room. I returned to my normal form; I don't need to keep using my Shadow form anymore... My body hurts so much! Argh! The consequences of obtaining legendary ghosts are getting worse. I can't even move. I used my legendary ghosts' energy to get home, but that came with severe consequences, like going almost blind. I can't see anything. My vision will return in a few hours.
Ugh... The ghost hunters are always communicating with each other and listening to everything I say. They keep a close watch on me when I'm with Hanako. "Shit, it's in the sea. I don't know how to swim." "I'll stay away from the sea just in case. I can't hold my breath." Saying that worked. Don't they have lie detectors? No, I think legendary ghost Number 10, the ghost of trust, is more useful than I thought. I managed to fool the ghost hunters. If I hadn't said that, I doubt the bearer would've tried to kill me in the sea.
I defeated them today.
"Ugh... Come out."
My new legendary ghost came out of my body, grabbed me by the shirt, and started shaking me.
"What did you do to me?!"
"Don't look at me. I only tried to steal your legendary ghost, but for some reason, your soul and that legendary ghost ended up fusing. Or so Number 1 told me."
The bearer ended up becoming the legendary ghost. What did she do? I don't understand anything.
"Now, I order you. Tell me, what did you try to do?"
"Argh! I just wanted to prevent my soul from being destroyed by expelling it from my body before dying, but for some reason, my stupid legendary ghost trapped my soul!"
"Oh... I don't understand anything."
Number 1 came out of my body.
"Her legendary ghost forced her to take its place as a legendary ghost."
"Is that possible?"
"Yes, but it only works with bearers who expel their souls. This woman..."
"My name is Elizabeth!" said the woman, angrily.
"Yeah, whatever. Elizabeth made the mistake of expelling her soul from her body, which gave Number 16 the chance to be free by passing its position as a legendary ghost to Elizabeth."
"Oh..."
I'll never use that legendary ghost in front of Hanako or the members of that ghost-hunting organization.
"Argh! I don't want to be a legendary ghost! I had a date today!"
"Oh, sure, go to your date. Say hi to your boyfriend for me."
"... Huh?"
"I'll just give you certain orders, you know, to prevent you from betraying me. You're mine, Number 16, and you'll do everything I order. Understood?"
"I refuse to...!"
"I'm not asking, I'm confirming. You're mine, whether you like it or not. Now shut up and listen."
"Damn you!!"
I need to make sure the ghost-hunting organization thinks Dianney was the one who captured Number 16, not me. That way, I'll avoid Hanako hating me.
Well, 17 legendary ghosts under my control, 83 to go.