Novel: "Dark Summer"
One of Saik's favorite novels.
A book that tells the story of Joe, a young boy who must survive alongside his little sister. They travel across the country in search of their father. A journey that did not have a happy ending.
"Not everyone has the same opportunities. Not all of us can be equal, little sister. There will always be people more and less fortunate than us. It's up to us to change our destiny. But I promise I'll always be by your side, no matter the circumstances." These were the words Joe said to his little sister when they escaped from home together.
Joe loved his little sister with all his heart and wanted her to be happy, no matter what he had to do to ensure her happiness.
On their journey, Joe faced many adversities: lack of food, water, bathrooms, mafias, traffickers, rapists, and murderers. But somehow, despite being just an 11-year-old boy, Joe managed to defeat all his enemies and ensure his little sister always had food and a smile on her face.
But everything ended on December 25, 2031, when his little sister was burned to death. Some men, part of a criminal group Joe had angered, set her on fire while Joe was getting a doll to give her as a Christmas gift. When he returned and found her dead, he cried and screamed, filled with rage, helplessness, and sadness, blaming himself for failing to protect her.
At the end of the novel, Joe found clues about the killers and went straight for them, not caring that they were with other members of the criminal group. Joe managed to kill everyone there, but the gunshot wounds he received were fatal.
"Little sister…" Joe said before taking his last breath.
"Dark Summer." A book written by Richard Conmd. A fictional story, but inspired by real-life events, such as the murder of over 30 people on a farm.
But a more tragic reality lies behind the book.
(Start of Volume 9. Thank you so much for your support. I look forward to your comments :'3. Please leave comments!)
(Pov - Naima.)
I hate people who try to take advantage of me.
I hate stupid people.
I hate whiny, overly sensitive people.
I hate perverted, disgusting people.
And what I hate most are people like my father. Perverted, stupid, insensitive, corrupt… People who take advantage of others and don't take no for an answer.
Stalkers.
Idiots.
People who could harm me in some way.
I hate people like that, which is why I try to avoid them at all costs.
But sometimes it's inevitable to come into contact with those kinds of people, especially in this school. If I don't socialize, I become the weakest link, and all my efforts would go to waste.
A clear example of that kind of person is Saik, my stupid partner on the island. He got me into trouble, I'm at risk of being expelled because of him, and not only that, because of him, our class is at risk of dropping to Class C, not to mention his feud with the student council and the second- and third-year students.
Saik is ruining my future plans, and that's something I won't forgive.
My younger siblings are counting on me. If I fail them, I could never forgive myself. I made them a promise, and I'll keep it, no matter what I have to do to fulfill it.
I hate people without honor. People who can't be trusted.
But I have no choice. I must become the kind of person I hate most for the sake of my younger siblings.
Saik, don't blame me for what I'm going to do; it's your fault. You brought this upon yourself.
If you're gone, my worries will disappear.
Saik, you're a danger to my future, and I'll take care of it myself.
CHAPTER 60 - Saik vs. the President. Part 1.
(Pov - Yuki.)
"Ahhhhh!! This makes no logical sense!!"
Why did Saik fall for someone so stupid, aggressive, and rude?! Is he a masochist?! Saik, you have Sylphie, she's so much better than Naima! She has bigger breasts, she's more beautiful, and she's madly in love with you! Why did you fall for Naima when you have Sylphie at your disposal?! Have you gone crazy, you idiot?!
I refuse to accept this relationship! I absolutely refuse!
My support is only for Sylphie! Naima, go die! You don't deserve Saik's love! Ahhhhh!! What did Saik see in you?! You're a rude, violent girl! And you're not even pretty! You don't deserve Saik's love!
Ahhhhh!! This makes no sense! It doesn't, it doesn't!
"Why, Saik? Why did you fall for someone like Naima?"
I try to understand it, but it makes no logical sense.
She treats you badly, insults you, doesn't even consider you a friend… To her, you're just trash that doesn't even deserve to be treated well.
Why did you fall for her…? Why?
This… makes no sense.
"I'm sorry, Saik, but it's for your own good… I'll pray this relationship never happens. You should be with Sylphie, Saik!"
… Huh? Why do my cheeks feel wet? Did it start raining…? No… It's not rain. It's… tears?
Why am I crying…? Oh, I know why… Because I feel so sorry for Saik, for having such terrible taste in women!
Ahhhhh!! Sylphie is perfect for him! Why didn't he fall for Sylphie?! This makes no sense!
Why Naima? What does Naima have that Sylphie doesn't? Oh, right, Naima has a black, evil heart, unlike Sylphie, whose heart is pure and kind!
Sylphie is an angel, and Naima is a disgusting demon!
Why, Saik?! Why Naima?!
"I refuse to accept it… I won't accept it… I won't."
I'll do everything I can to change your mind, Saik. Sylphie is the one who should be by your side, not Naima.
… But… why does it hurt so much? I feel awful.
Yes, it hurts that Saik prefers Naima over Sylphie, but this pain is different… Why do I feel this way? It's the first time I've felt this pain… Why do I feel like this?
Ah, it doesn't matter.
Saik… I really try to understand you, but this makes no logical sense.
Forgive me, but for your own good, I won't help you with anything. I'm sorry.
"Naima will never have my approval. Never."
•
•
(Pov - Saik.)
I lay down on my bed… Well… Yuki hasn't come back.
I could bring her back, but that would be abusing my control over her. A friendship is based primarily on trust, or so I've read. If I force Yuki to do something, she'll be afraid of me and won't trust me. I have to respect her decisions, even if they don't benefit me.
After all, Yuki is my only friend. The only person who deserves all my trust… Well, there's also Number 31, the legendary ghost who has never tried to betray me or harm me… Well, the sexual harassment counts as harm, but I don't take it seriously.
Ah, I remember the day my legendary ghosts tried to harm me, hoping they could. Those idiots forgot they can never harm their possessor; after all, that's the curse they carry. They're condemned to obey and be slaves to anyone capable of capturing them.
Number 1 learned that lesson the hard way, and it was too late for him.
The curse they carry can never be lifted; they can only pass it on to another soul.
Ah, legendary ghosts are still a mystery to me. Why were they created? For what purpose? No one knows, not even the legendary ghosts themselves.
But considering they grow weaker when they're far from this country, there's something in this country directly connected to the legendary ghosts.
… Why am I thinking about that? Ah, whatever.
Yuki, Naima, and the president are the only people I could fall for. But I rule out the president because she's my enemy. And although Naima has also become my enemy, I have a better chance of dating her than the president, not to mention it's not normal to date someone older than me.
Well, I think it's normal for adults, but teenagers usually date girls from their own class or age. Besides, considering all the information I've gathered, I'm pretty sure that… Hmm… I think February 14 would be the perfect day for a confession… Yes. I'm absolutely sure Naima will agree to be my girlfriend on February 14, the day I plan to ask her out.
A day widely used by people, which means it's common. And I, as the ordinary student I am, should use that day too.
I won't use social pressure; it wouldn't have the same value. She might accept because she feels pressured, and I don't want that. I'll do it in private, so it's just her and me.
I won't give her anything, because she'll think I'm trying to buy her love. If she agrees to be my girlfriend, I'll give her something, but if she rejects me, I'll accept her decision and move on with my life.
If she rejects me, life will go on as usual for me. After all, the only reason I want a girlfriend is because it's normal to want one. If Naima rejects me, I'll stop looking for a girlfriend. Trying once is enough for me.
And as for sex… Well… I don't think it's important, but teenagers are interested in it. I'm interested in having sex with a living person. If Naima rejects me, should I hire a prostitute?
No, that sounds disgusting.
I'll rule it out. Sex doesn't matter to me.
"Ah… My life is getting more complicated, parents."
Being normal is harder than I imagined. After all, I'm pretty sure I'm the furthest thing from normal in this school. Trying to be normal is quite complicated after living a life full of terrifying, disgusting, and far-from-healthy or normal experiences.
But I think I'm doing well. Setting aside the issue with the Goddess of Ghosts, my life is pretty peaceful and normal.
If this keeps up, I'll be able to die happy and satisfied with the result.
I wonder if I'll go to paradise for saving the world or to hell for all the evil I've done.
I saved the world, but I did things that were far from good.
I saw with my own eyes women and girls being raped, but I didn't do anything to save them or stop it. Why? Simply because I was lazy, didn't want to waste my energy, or didn't want them to discover I was there.
Ah, and the deaths. I killed many innocent people, either because they were possessors of legendary ghosts or because they were in my way and a nuisance to me.
… If I hadn't saved the world, I'd definitely go to hell. I hope saving the world forgives my sins, but I must admit I don't feel remorse for anything.
It's not my duty to save people. Does having great power make me responsible for my surroundings? No. I'm the only one who decides what to do with my power.
Besides, all those people I killed, except for the innocent ones, deserved it. The innocent people I killed… well, while I don't feel remorse, I admit some of those deaths weren't necessary. I think I was pretty impatient in the past.
Well, it doesn't matter anymore. Be it hell or paradise, I'll gladly accept my fate. As long as I can see my parents one last time, I'll be happy.
I saved the world. If I'm going to hell, the least the Gods could do is let me see my parents one last time. Besides, just in case that's not enough, I'm training someone to be the new Shadow, giving humanity more chances of victory.
"Alright… Good night."
I hope everything goes well.
•
•
Dawn finally broke. How did I know? Because Naima woke me up by splashing water on my face.
"Wake up, idiot, we're going to be late!"
Ah, Naima. You're lucky you're cute.
"Ahhhhh!! Saik, are you a masochist?! Why do you like this crazy girl with no feminine charm?!" said Yuki, hitting Naima in the face, though her blows don't do anything since her body is deactivated.
I don't think so, I think I just like feeling like a normal human. Normal humans are weak, and I won't be an exception.
"Good morning, Naima."
Fortunately, I slept in my uniform, so I saved time. Pretty smart of me.
I got out of bed and stretched my arms. Ah, I'm still sleepy, but it doesn't matter, I'll catch up on sleep later.
"Ah, alright, let's go… Oh. Wow, Naima. You look very beautiful with your hair down… Ah…"
I quickly raised my hand, and her hand collided with mine. She tried to slap me.
"Hey, if my honesty bothers you, just tell me. No need to resort to violence."
"Tch. Let me make something clear. Don't try to flirt with me, got it? You're not my type. If you keep saying those kinds of things, I'll report you to the school."
… Ouch, I must admit that hurt, but this is the scenario I wanted to achieve.
"Wow. Flirt? I'm just being honest. Is being honest a form of flirting? If so, I apologize, that wasn't my intention."
"Tch. Yeah, sure. Walk."
She walked away from me, and I followed her.
Ah, I can feel Naima's disgust. Perfect. And I don't say that because I like it (though I love that expression), I say it because making Naima disgusted with me is part of my plan.
President, will the outcome be a scenario you've already predicted? We'll see.
•
•
After receiving instructions about our zone and being told how the bracelets worked, they gave us the items I bought, and we headed to our zone on the island.
This island is divided into 5 zones. We got zone 4, and from what I saw on the map they gave us, we got the part of the island with a river. We'll be able to bathe there.
The zone is quite large, so I think finding the treasure hunt items will be harder than I thought. Trees dominate this area, so we won't have to worry about the sun.
Naima will sleep in the tent, and I'll sleep under a tree, far from her.
We're carrying boxes with the items I bought.
Two swimsuits for Naima and two for me.
A fishing rod.
Hooks, fishing materials like worms, etc.
Underwear and two sets of clothes each.
Socks.
Portable toilet.
4 cans of food.
A jug of purified water.
A tent.
It's pretty heavy for Naima, but it's for the best; neither of us wants to make two trips.
"Seriously, you can carry the jug without any problem?"
"Yeah, don't worry."
In fact, it feels light to me, but I have to pretend it's a bit heavy to avoid raising more suspicions.
Carrying a water jug with one hand is hard for normal people, but I'm not pretending it's too heavy to impress Naima.
We'll save the cans of food for emergencies, in case we can't find food. I guess our diet will consist of fish… Well, at least for Naima.
They warned us about the wild animals we might encounter, but none are dangerous, so I don't have to worry too much about Naima. The animals here that can be eaten include wild pigs, cows, frogs, squirrels, and other small animals.
Pigs are dangerous, but they told us they're in a specific part of our zone, and if we don't enter that area, we'll be fine.
All the animals can be hunted and eaten, so I have meat secured, at least for me. I'll offer some to Naima, but I doubt she'll want meat after knowing how I got it.
I know how to kill animals; after all, humans count as animals too. Draining the blood is an issue, but for that, I have the help of Legendary Ghost Number 93, who's an expert in survival matters.
It'll be disgusting, but necessary to survive.
This island, apparently, is unpredictable in terms of terrain. There are places where climbing is necessary, and sloped areas. We need to stay alert while exploring, as we could fall into a hole.
Regarding the bracelets, I confirmed my suspicions about the audio. According to what they told us, the bracelet will measure our heart rate and only record our voices in emergencies. For example, if I tried to rape Naima, the bracelet would activate and record my voice as evidence. But it'll only activate in emergencies. I can speak freely, but I won't. I still don't trust the school; the ghost hunters might still be after me. I'll communicate with Yuki using signs and nodding or shaking my head.
"Tch. All I see are trees and plants. Isn't there a cave or something?"
"What if we camp by the river? We'd have fresh water nearby."
"But the cold at night will kill us, idiot."
"Ahhhhh!! You're the idiot! Saik's just giving his opinion!" said Yuki, kicking Naima in the face.
Thanks for defending me, Yuki, but unfortunately, Naima has plenty of reasons to think I'm an idiot.
I stopped to look at the map and set the jug on the ground.
Hmm… Hanako and Cristal are here, so… Yeah.
"Look, this spot seems perfect," I said, pointing to a specific location on the map.
A location near the right boundary of our zone, by the river and close to the beach.
There's also a sort of cliff; it could be useful for exercising and exploring the underground cave system I heard about. I'd invite Naima, but I doubt she'd agree to go to such a dark, quiet place.
"We'll have the beach nearby, as well as fresh water."
"The issue of cold nights isn't solved, moron."
"You sleep with two sets of clothes on, and problem solved. Don't complicate things, Naima."
"Tch. Whatever. Let's go then."
Ah, Naima, so cute. It's a shame I have to get rid of that behavior.
(Author's Note: Please leave comments! :3 What do you think of the novel, your favorite characters, and what do you think of the protagonist?)
•
•
(Pov - Kaeyko.)
I'll be working from 2 PM to 10 PM. My job is simple, but working 8 hours is something I'm not used to. Yesterday was pretty long and complicated, since I have to deal with women… and some men trying to flirt with me.
Tch. My appearance doesn't match my personality at all.
Besides working, I have online classes. So lazy!
Being in class from 7 AM to noon is hell, but because it's online. It doesn't feel the same, but at least I can lie in bed, even fall asleep. I asked Kaey to wake me with a bite if they call on me, and since he nodded, it means he understood.
Ah… I don't think I'm ready for adult life. It's only Thursday, but I wish time would speed up to Sunday so I can enjoy my day off.
Plus, sharing an apartment with Ether is awful. Why? Because of this.
"Hehe. Don't you want to have some fun too, cutie?"
The girl Ether brought to the apartment stood by my bed and lifted her shirt to show me her breasts. Ugh, this prostitute spreads her legs way too easily. Not that I think women don't have the right to enjoy their sexuality, but she literally wants to have sex with me, a stranger who doesn't even know her name. I suspect she has some STD. Gross. That's why I prefer kind, innocent girls. Virginity doesn't matter to me, but I prefer women with little experience… Ugh, I'm thinking about this, and I'm still a virgin, I shouldn't care about these things.
"No, thanks."
I got out of bed and kicked Ether, who was on the floor. I admit I kicked him out of revenge for daring to have sex next to my bed.
"H-Hey, why'd you do that?!"
"If you're not joining the class, take care of your guest."
"So… can I use the bed?! Please!"
"Tch. It's all yours."
"Thank you so much!"
He got up immediately and grabbed the woman's butt.
Gross. I'm outta here.
I left the room, and Kaey sat on my head.
I had to endure listening to those two having sex last night. They tried to do it on the bed, but since I share a bed with Ether because we couldn't afford an apartment with two rooms, I made them do it on the floor.
I was going to tell them to leave and not do it in the room, but I allowed it so Ether would owe me a favor.
Ugh, I can still hear those two animals having sex in my mind. They didn't even care that I was in bed. I think knowing that turned them on more. Ugh, I don't get them.
I left the apartment and headed to the elevator.
Ugh, I don't understand women. Why do some spread their legs so easily? It sounds super rude of me, but it's a reality. The woman Ether's with right now was probably convinced by money. Don't they worry about possible STDs?
Well, I have no experience in that area, much less know about women, so I have no right to judge something I know nothing about.
I pressed the button and waited for the elevator to open.
I checked my phone since I'm still in class. I got distracted and didn't understand what they're explaining. I hope they don't call on me.
… Huh? What's this chill?
I feel something evil approaching from my left.
I turned to my left… Oh, no wonder.
Hmm… I don't sense any ulterior motives, so I think it's a coincidence. After all, these apartments are cheap; it's not unusual to find a tourist like her in this place.
"Good morning, Sylvie."
"G-G-Good m-morning, Kaeyko."
That stutter still creeps me out, but I can ignore it.
The elevator opened, and we both stepped in. I guess she's going to the first floor too, so I pressed the first-floor button.
"Where are you headed, Sylvie?"
"T-To the park. You?"
"I don't know, somewhere I can take my online class. My stupid roommate is having sex in our apartment, and I don't want to keep listening to those animals. Tch. That's why I hate extroverts."
"Oh. A-And I th-thought those n-noises w-were you."
"You heard them too? I'm sorry. I was going to stop them, but I'd rather not make enemies at school. I still need his help to pass this special test."
"N-No worries!"
"Well, we've got 20 floors to go. This building's pretty big."
"So… d-do you have siblings?"
I guess she's trying to keep the conversation going to avoid an awkward atmosphere.
"I have a sister, a year younger than me. You, Sylvie?"
"I also have a younger sister. Her name's Sumi, and she's 7."
7 years old, huh? Wow. It must feel weird to have such a young sister. I think I'd feel awkward. Such a big age gap between siblings could make it hard to see each other as siblings… Well, I'd better not think about unnecessary stuff like that.
"What are you going to the park for? A walk?"
"Y-Yeah. I n-need fresh a-air to d-draw."
"Got it."
That's right, she's an artist. I guess artists need inspiration or peace to draw better or something like that.
Peace, huh? Yeah, I guess that's what I need.
The elevator opened, and we stepped out.
"See you later."
"S-See you."
We left the building and went our separate ways.
"Woof, woof!"
Kaey's rubbing his belly. Hungry? Yeah, me too.
It's 8 AM. Breakfast time.
"What do you want for breakfast, Kaey? Eggs? Let's go to a cheap restaurant."
I don't have much money, but I have enough for breakfast. Besides, Kaey's small, he doesn't eat much.
… Hmm… That's weird.
"Woof!"
"Yeah, I felt it too. That breeze chilled my blood."
It's getting cold, but that breeze was excessively cold. I should've worn a jacket.
I don't want to go back to the apartment, so I'll tough out the cold.
•
•
While Kaeyko walked through the streets, Star, one of the Goddess of Ghosts' minions, watched him from the roof of a bakery, licking a lollipop and smiling.
"Hehe. So cute. Kaeyko x Sylvie, huh? I ship that couple, though I also like Kaeyko x Dulce. Dulce isn't pretty, but I find her innocence adorable."
Star sighed and rubbed her thighs.
"I tried manipulating Kaeyko to get closer to Saik, but it was useless. I have to say goodbye to Kaeyko x Saik; it'll never happen… Well, well, well. The pieces are moving. Time for the second step."
She snapped her fingers, and three people were about to emerge behind her, but the twins Sheik and Shaik landed behind Star and stopped those people from coming out of the ground.
"Get out of here, we need privacy," said Shaik.
"Hehe. What's up, twins? Got some business with me? If you're in love with me, that's fine, I accept your feelings. I'll date Sheik from Monday to Thursday and Shaik from Friday to Sunday. How's that? Or do you want the three of us to go on dates together?"
"I'm fine with that. What do you think, sister…? Ouch!"
She hit her brother on the head and crossed her arms, disgusted by the offer.
"Don't say stupid things, brother. If you want to date her, go ahead, but don't drag me into it. I don't like women, much less someone as childish and crazy as Star."
"Well, more for me. I hope you'll be faithful, Star."
"Ugh, you guys take everything so seriously, don't you? So boring. Sorry, we're done, I'm not interested in boring people who are in love with their own sist—"
Both Sheik and Shaik placed their hands on Star's shoulders, while she just smiled at them, not feeling any fear.
"Only sick people would see their own sister that way."
"Don't insult my brother like that, idiot. My brother's not sick. Got it?"
"Yeah, yeah, your relationship is healthy, blah, blah, blah. Enough jokes. What do you want? You ruined the epic moment where I was about to introduce the future enemies of my dear Kaeyko."
"That's what we came to talk about. You have the copy of Hercules' soul, don't you? Don't try to lie to us," said Shaik.
"Hehe. Maybe. What do you need it for?"
"Because it's ours. Where is it?"
"And you're only now realizing I stole it?"
"Because we were just about to use it to bring a Golem to life. Where is it?"
"I won't tell you. I already used it, so I can't give the soul back. I'll pay you back later."
"Tch. For what?"
"For my new toy."
"Damn—"
Sheik was about to hit Star, but his sister grabbed his hand.
"She's not worth it, brother. Let's go. We'll find another soul."
"Not only did you break my heart, but you also stole our stuff. You're evil."
"You'll make me blush. Thanks," said Star, winking.
"Tch. Let's go."
The twins flew off, and Star turned to her left to see Kaeyko and Kaey entering a small restaurant.
"You ruined the real-life novel of my Goddess by becoming someone completely different from the protagonist. But that life you've had made you the perfect candidate to be a monster hunter… and an alien hunter. Hehe. Kaeyko, if everything goes perfectly, I don't think having your kids would be a bad idea. I think it's time I become a mother."
Star sat down and crossed her legs.
"Alright… Time to get ready."
•
•
(Pov - Nergio.)
"In the Capital?"
"That's right, Mother. Those aliens are in the Capital. Their signals vanished right when all the ships gathered above the Capital."
This danger completely surpasses my theories about the ancient alien civilizations that lived on this world thousands of years ago.
We're facing a threat on another level. A threat from another world… Literally speaking.
My master's legendary ghosts must have a purpose, or had a purpose, in this world. Why do they exist? We don't know, not even my master knows the answer to that question.
Could they be related to the ancient alien civilizations? Are they here to protect us from them? If so, that could explain why there are people like my master, with the power to see and control ghosts.
If my theory is correct, they didn't attack the planet because Number 100 could defeat them, but now that it's gone, they decided to attack. If that's the case, they're dumber than I thought. My master, though he doesn't want to fight or be involved with us anymore, will defend his new normal life with all his power. An alien invasion could destroy the normal life he wants, so I'm sure he'll defend it if necessary.
… Wait… Ahhhhh!! That's right! My master can't use his legendary ghosts! After the fight with the wooden doll, his soul and body were severely weakened!
What if they were waiting for this to happen? How are they monitoring us?
"Allies of the Goddess of Ghosts?" said my sister.
That would make sense, considering she wants to take over the world, but…
"Ghosts only have power in this world; they can't travel through space. It's impossible for her to communicate with them," said my nephew.
"Besides, if the aliens had infiltrators on the planet before their arrival, we would've detected them. I don't think they're allies of the Goddess of Ghosts… At least not for now."
This situation is a mess. Aliens are easy to kill if we use our spiritual power, or so I'd like to say. We don't know if they have weapons or armor that protect them from such attacks. We need to capture one and study it first.
According to the information, my master is on an island. Maybe I can talk to him and ask for help… But… He threatened to kill me if he saw me again… It's an emergency, but he'll get mad if I try to get his help without first trying to defeat them on my own.
Ugh… I need a coffee.
"If our calculations are correct, 4% of the people in the Capital are aliens disguised as humans. With our mother's power, we can find them, but the main problem is that they're unknown beings to us. Do we take the risk and attack now? Or do we wait longer?" said my sister.
"The Goddess of Ghosts could contact them while we wait, but attacking without knowing our enemy could doom us. I think we should wait one or two more days. Nergio, what do you think about Shadow? Do you think he'll agree to help us?" said my mother.
"Honestly, knowing my master, he won't help us if we don't try fighting them first. Besides, my master will remain weakened for a while; we can't force him to strain his soul further. And he can't lend us legendary ghosts either, since they're also weak."
"Yes, you're right. This time, we can't count on Shadow."
Master, don't worry, I'll do everything I can to protect your normal life. You have my word.
"Then we only have one option. Lalo García."
"Tch. That man…"
"I know you hate him, Nergio, but he's our only option. His technology will allow us to investigate better."
"Yes, I know, Mother."
Lalo García, the man who defeated the seven deadly sins alongside my master.
The deadly sin of pride.
(Extra - Legendary Ghost Number 18, the Ghost of Lust.)
(Pov - Saik, age 6.)
"Merry Christmas, Hanako!"
"Merry Christmas, Shadow!"
With a big hug, we kick off the Christmas party. Though, unfortunately, we have unwanted guests, like the leader of this ghost-hunting organization, who keeps annoying me with his questions, trying to get information out of me. Fortunately, he shut up when I threatened to kill him.
He's still analyzing me, looking for weaknesses and planning how to kill me, I know it, which is why I don't let my guard down and have several escape plans in case they try to capture me.
"I hope you like it, Hanako."
"You too!"
We exchanged gifts and opened them immediately… Oh, how cute! A doll… Hmm… I think this doll is inspired by a character from a cartoon… Anime? Yeah, that.
It's cute. It'd be perfect if it didn't have a tracker inside. How do I know? Because it's too obvious that the members of this organization wouldn't let Hanako give me a doll without a tracker. I'll keep the doll, but I'll store it somewhere else, far from my house.
"Oh, awesome!"
"I hope you liked it, Hanako."
"I loved it!"
I gave her a pink teddy bear that jumps and dances.
When she opened her gift, the teddy bear jumped out of the box and started dancing.
She didn't get scared; after all, people like her are used to scary things.
"Where did you get it?!"
"I just kidnapped a robotics expert and forced him to make it. If you want to know more, ask the leader of this organization to tell you what I did. Right, old man?"
I turned to look at him, and he clicked his tongue at me.
I kidnapped several members of this organization who work in the labs. I told them to make the teddy bear if they wanted to stay alive, and I let them go after they finished.
Of course, the leader got mad at me again, so I had to defeat him again.
The leader is powerful, but with the power of my legendary ghosts, he couldn't beat me.
Possessors of legendary ghosts are powerful, but for some reason, he doesn't have one. I suspect it's because his soul is incompatible with the power of legendary ghosts, since Number 1 told me his soul and his family's souls are strange. And considering legendary ghosts make anyone powerful, it's extremely rare for him not to have one.
"Hehe. You'd scare me, but I think I've gotten too used to your presence, Shadow."
"S-Suppose that's a good thing… Huh?"
H-Hanako took my hand and is smiling at me… I-I think my heart can't handle so much sweetness!
"Thank you so much for being my friend."
… Huh? What's this?
She's kissing me on the cheek… Hanako is kissing me on the cheek! I'll never wash my cheek again!
"A-An extra gift," she said with that sweet smile, full of kindness and tenderness.
"T-Thanks… I… I'll give you an extra gift too!"
I gathered my courage and kissed her on the lips. I pressed my lips against hers. According to Number 1, if I don't use my tongue, it doesn't count as an adult kiss. Pressing my lips to hers is an innocent kiss!
"Hey, hey, get away!"
"Huh?"
Why'd they pull me away from her, idiots?! I wanted to enjoy it longer!
"Hanako's too young to have a boyfriend! I forbid you from kissing her!"
"That's not fair, Mom! I like Shadow!"
… She likes me?! This is the best day of my life!
"I forbid you from associating with him! Get out of here, Shadow! I don't want you coming back!"
"Huh?"
I immediately backed away from Hanako's mother… No… No, no, no.
I completely forgot… Hanako's mother is the possessor of Legendary Ghost Number 26, and Hanako's father is the possessor of Legendary Ghost Number 27.
If I want to achieve what I want, I'll have to kill her parents… Will I be capable of that?
If I do, I'll have to say goodbye to my friendship and future marriage with Hanako, but if I don't, my dream will never come true.
Hanako or my dream?
"I… don't know…"
"What don't you know?" said the leader.
"… I'm sorry, Hanako, I have to go."
I ran away and escaped as fast as I could from the place.
I have to choose between Hanako, my first true friend, or my dream… I have to choose, there's no third option.
"I don't know what to do… I don't know."
•
•
The leader watched Shadow leave and sighed in irritation.
"That kid is too dangerous and troublesome for us. He's playing with us, and worst of all, our attempts to capture him are useless. How did he manage to get so many legendary ghosts as a little kid? It makes no sense. But I suppose as long as Hanako and Shadow are friends, he won't consider us his enemies."
"But there's a chance he's responsible for Elizabeth's disappearance."
"Yes, it's quite likely, but there's also the possibility that Dianney really exists and she's the one responsible. Shadow seems too attached to Hanako. It doesn't feel like an act."
"Master, master, this is bad!"
A member of the organization burst into the house, and everyone turned to look at him.
"What's wrong?"
"Diana's dead! We found her headless body! Legendary Ghost Number 18 was stolen!"
"What did you say?! When?!"
"We believe she died 10 minutes ago!"
"Activate all the alarms and check all the cameras!"
"Right away!"
The member left, and the leader clicked his tongue.
"Was Shadow responsible, or was it Dianney? Whoever it was, we have to stop them. Gather all the possessors of legendary ghosts!"
"You're going to kill Shadow?!" said Hanako, her eyes teary.
"He's probably the culprit. We can't keep tolerating his humiliations."
"Shadow didn't do it, he was with me all day!"
"Hanako, be quiet, we're busy! Go to your room!" her father shouted.
"Shadow didn't do it, he didn't!" Hanako cried as she ran out of the living room.
"Shadow, what are you really?" said Hanako's mother.
•
•
While Hanako cried in her room, Saik was in his bathroom, sitting on the floor and staring at a box.
"You made the right decision, Saik," said Number 1, patting his head.
"If Hanako finds out I'm the culprit, I won't be able to stay her friend, but I won't give up on my dream. I want to fulfill my dream, and I promised I'd do whatever it takes to achieve it. And my family always keeps its promises."
"Master, are you sure about your decision? It seemed like you really enjoyed spending time with Miss Hanako," said Number 30.
"Yes… I've come too far, I can't back out now."
Saik opened the box and looked at the contents. The severed head of a woman.
"Thanks to the leader being busy watching me, Numbers 4 and 30 managed to kill the possessor of Legendary Ghost Number 18… I've already caused a lot of damage to that organization, and I don't know if I'll be able to keep hiding the truth… I really enjoy being with Hanako, but my happiness matters more… I'll get all the legendary ghosts… I promise."
"Well said, Saik."
"Ah… 19 legendary ghosts under my control. 81 to go."