Extra Information: Death
Death is not the end of life; there are three different fates for the soul.
The first and best of all: Paradise. A place where the deceased reunite with their loved ones who have already passed. The only requirement for entry is that you've done more good than evil. It doesn't matter if you've killed or committed heinous acts; if your good deeds outweigh the bad, you can enter. This means that even if a millionaire turns out to be a pedophile or a serial killer with over 100 murders, if they did enough good or their actions to appear virtuous benefited thousands or millions, they won't go to hell—they'll go to paradise. It's quite unfair, but it's reality. After all, most gods see humans as mere sources of energy and don't care much about their well-being.
The second, which most consider the worst fate: Hell. A place where the souls of sinners suffer the consequences of the evil they committed while alive. If you caused more harm than good, no matter if you're a spoiled child who hurt others because of abusive parents, you'll go to hell, and they'll show you no mercy.
The third, undoubtedly the worst fate of all: Becoming a lost soul.
Why is being a ghost worse than going to hell? For two simple reasons:
You cease to be yourself and turn into a demon without the ability to reason.
The worst part: When a ghost hunter eliminates your soul, you'll face a punishment worse than hell—ceasing to exist forever.
In hell, after a time (depending on your sins), you're released and given the chance to reunite with loved ones or reincarnate with them if they've already reincarnated.
The same goes for paradise. You can live there forever, but if you get bored, you can reincarnate.
In both cases, you lose your memories; you won't recall your previous life, but you'll continue to exist.
However, when a soul is destroyed, you cease to exist forever.
An eternal sleep from which you can never awaken.
CHAPTER 16 - The Mindset of a Widow. Part 6
(POV - Yuki)
Ahhhhh! Just remembering all that pain makes me tremble with fear! It felt like an elephant crushed me, jumping on me multiple times, breaking logic and reality just to cause me more pain while laughing at my suffering!
Saik, you liar…! But I'll forgive you because you're giving me a big, delicious reward… Ugh, that sounded wrong.
Ah… I can't stay too mad at him. After all, if we don't shake off the ghost hunters, they could eliminate me! I don't want to disappear forever!
Fufu. I'm mature enough to know it was necessary! After all, I'm 15; I'm no longer an immature little girl!
But, Saik, you know, you could've, well, you get it, right? Maybe you could've told me that, uh… that it was going to hurt so much! I wasn't mentally prepared for that kind of pain!!
You're lucky it lasted less than a second, because if it had been longer, it would've cost you an arm and a leg to buy my forgiveness, you idiot!!
Ah… Deep breaths, Yuki. It's over, it's over. Best to ignore it and move forward, head held high! I survived the ghost hunters' attack! Ghost hunters: 0. Sexy, beautiful, perfect Yuki: 1. No, 100! Fufu. Not every ghost can brag about outsmarting those hunters. For my great achievement, I deserve the 100 points!
What? Saik did all the work? No, no, no. Very bad, very bad. You're wrong, buddy. Very wrong. I was the one who suffered; I deserve the points for being the bait! Ahhhhh! Saik, you're a…!
No, no, Yuki, don't forget to stay calm.
Ah, yeah, that's true… But, well, as long as the points are mine, I won't stay mad.
Look, look, my beautiful smile on my face. I'm not angry anymore! Just a little resentful.
Fufu. One day, I'll get my revenge, Saik.
…
…
…
Ah… Hmm… So boring.
It's too quiet around here. I'm gonna liven things up a bit!
"Saik, Saik, stop being so serious. I'm not mad anymore!"
But if you wake up with your eyebrows shaved, it's not because I'm mad—it's just revenge. Muahahahaha!
Plus, no one will notice thanks to your hair. Oh, I'm so generous, I know, I know.
…
…
…
Talk!
"Seriously, I'm not mad anymore, don't worry. Look."
I gave him a little kiss on the cheek. Feel grateful; you just got a kiss from the perfect Yuki. Very few mortals can brag about being kissed by a goddess like me…! Well, I've only kissed my mom and Saik… Damn childhood traumas.
"Hey, hey. Saik, listen. Hey, Saik. Listen… Don't ignore me!"
Saik sighed. Finally, a reaction!
"Ah… Yuki, has anyone ever told you it's not normal to talk to yourself while walking down the street?"
"But there's no one around!"
"But there are security cameras."
Well… I guess that's true. If they catch Saik talking "alone," the ghost hunters might suspect him again.
Ah. So boring.
I can't talk to Saik on the street… I hate being a ghost!
I wish I were alive. And I hate this appearance too!
My mom had big breasts! It's not fair; I was supposed to have big breasts too! All I've got are these damn flat-as-a-board 10-year-old-girl breasts. Flat, flat, like a table. Ah, life is never fair to me.
… Well, that's not entirely true. I was lucky enough to meet Saik. Thanks to him, I can leave the house, eat delicious food… Live a normal life again… Even if I can't talk to anyone else, talking to Saik is enough for me.
… My first and only friend.
•
•
(POV - Saik)
Ah, I'm at school.
I'm hungry. Really hungry. Ah, sometimes I miss being a slacker student. I know my parents weren't proud of me for being a slacker who skipped classes to sleep or eat, but my mom didn't raise a liar. I won't lie and say I didn't enjoy my life as a slacker student.
Skipping classes to sleep or eat was the best. It was so relaxing.
But, well, I've changed… A little, not much. I still love sleeping and eating all the time, but I've changed a bit. Now I'm a responsible student who always goes to class and studies until 3 a.m. to be smart.
Ah, Mom, Dad, I'll never understand you. I'm not like you; I don't enjoy studying or want to work in something complicated. I don't want to be a doctor or anything like that. I'm not cut out for it.
And what do I want to be when I grow up? After my parents' deaths, my will to live faded. It came back because I wanted to fulfill my mom's dream, and Yuki's company made me want to keep living, but… little by little, the absence of my parents and the guilt I feel inside are leaving me empty again. Yuki's presence helps me keep going, but… it's not enough.
What will become of me when I grow up? Ah, that day will never…
"Saik, look at that girl; she has the same hairstyle as you! And huge breasts. Fufu. Could she be your soulmate?"
I glanced at the girl Yuki's pointing at.
Hmm… That's weird… I feel like I've seen her before… Whatever, I don't have time for that.
I reached my classroom. Hello, hell called "school day." You have no idea how much I hate you.
No, Saik, you're supposed to be the best student; enjoy school… Or, well, at least pretend to enjoy it.
I dropped my backpack on the floor, put my arms on the desk, and tried to rest.
But it was just that—an attempt.
As a consequence of my past actions, someone now considers me their friend.
"S-Saik, are we meeting at your house to start the project?"
Ah… Socializing, my worst enemy. Seriously, I'm not made for this.
I looked up and met Sylphie's eyes, but when she felt our gazes connect, she looked away.
Ah, seriously, I don't understand people.
"That's right… Sorry, I didn't clean the house. Can we do the project at your place, Sylphie?"
"A-at my house?"
"If it's not too much trouble."
"… Y-Yes… Y-Yes, it's fine."
"Thanks, that'd save me a lot of hassle. Since I live alone, I don't care about the state of my house. It's pretty messy… Well, that's a downside of being lazy."
"Lazy…? But you're so smart, Saik."
Wow… Yuki started pretending to grope Sylphie's breasts, with fury and envy in her being. That angry expression, pretending to grope Sylphie's breasts while touching her own flat chest, confirms it. Plus, she keeps repeating "so jealous, so jealous" over and over. Why are women obsessed with breast size? Ah, I'll never understand. They're just lumps of fat.
"So jealous, so jealous, so jealous!! It's not fair!"
I need to ignore that. Why are you doing this, Yuki?
"Ahhhhh! So jealous! I'd have big breasts too! Life isn't fair! God, why can't ghosts grow or at least shapeshift?! End ghost discrimination; we have the same rights as living humans!"
Well, they can shapeshift by modifying their soul, but it can have serious consequences and isn't worth the risk.
… Ah, Yuki. You're so adorable when you're mad. I'll buy you four burgers just for you… Well, maybe pizza. Or some pasta? Ah, I'm hungry.
"You can consider me smart, but that has nothing to do with being lazy. I prefer avoiding things that seem boring to me."
"Like not giving the welcome speech," Ram said.
"Exactly."
She put her hand on my desk… Ah, this is becoming a habit. I already have enough with Sylphie; don't cling to me too, Ram.
"Hey, don't you think doing the same thing gets boring?"
"I challenge you. Whoever makes the best project wins."
So lazy.
"No, thanks."
"Why not? Scared of losing?"
Trying to provoke me, huh? A competitive girl, from what I can tell. I thought she'd be a snob who thinks she's better than everyone, but I guess she's just someone who wants to be the best or enjoys tough challenges.
… Yeah, she's a snob. What a pain.
"Ah, I'm not scared; I'm 100% sure I'd lose."
"Huh?"
"That's why I'd rather avoid a competition. You already won. Congrats."
I stood up and pulled a lollipop from my pocket.
"Here, the prize. Hope I win next time."
"Tch. You're weird."
She walked away from me, annoyed. Hey, you won fair and square; I didn't let you win.
Ah, women are so complicated.
"You forgot your prize."
"I don't want it!"
… Why does she keep approaching me? I guess she's mad because I'm the top student in class and she's number two.
But, in theory, she's number one, and I'm one of the worst.
I'm only the best because I cheated. For now, I'll consider Ram the best in class, but I promise I'll catch up to her genuinely soon… Ah, I really hope I can. I have three years to do it. Beating a genius in three years… Everything's stacked against me.
"Ah, I'm sleepy."
What a heavy schedule I have today.
School Schedule - Wednesday:
7:00 AM - 8:30 AM: Fundamental Mathematics
8:30 AM - 9:10 AM: Break (40 minutes)
9:10 AM - 10:40 AM: Integrated Sciences
10:40 AM - 11:00 AM: Rest (20 minutes)
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Global Economics and Politics (Economic Theories and Geopolitics)
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Lunch
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Foreign Language
3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Physical Education
Ah… Fundamental Mathematics, Integrated Sciences, Global Economics and Politics, Physical Education, Foreign Language, World History, Advanced Programming and Technology, Humanities.
Eight subjects total. Ah, so lazy.
And why do we have programming? Ah, so unnecessary. I guess it's just a filler subject to teach us how to make websites or something.
Ah, let the hell begin.
•
•
The first classes ended, and we went to eat. Nothing notable happened; it was all boring. Well, something happened, but it's not that important. During the first break, Yuki woke me from my nap to defend some kids being beaten by a third-year. She wanted me to step in, but I refused; I don't want to get into unnecessary trouble. She even went as far as investigating the guy to find his weaknesses, but I still refused. Let him beat whoever he wants; as long as it doesn't affect me, I don't care.
Yuki got tired of insisting, so that topic's done.
Lunchtime started, and as usual, I went to eat on the school rooftop, but something completely ruined my plans.
"They locked the door, Saik!"
"Ah. They caught us."
Resigned, I went back to my classroom to eat.
Now I have to deal with my classmates' voices.
I'd eat outside, but that'd be worse. The voices of so many people would be more annoying.
… Ah, right… Yuki. Well, sacrificing my peace to feed Yuki is totally worth it. Don't worry, Yuki, you'll eat today.
I left my classroom.
Where can I eat…? Ah, I know.
Behind the art room.
I'm sure no one's there for two reasons:
It's far from the school cafeteria where students eat. No student with an active social life would come here.
There are other places to eat at school, like the garden, courtyard, or classrooms. This would be the last place loners would go.
Even loners eat in their classrooms.
We'll have that space to ourselves.
"Why'd they lock the rooftop?! It's so nice eating there."
"Student suicides are common, especially in strict places like this school. They'd rather avoid the risk of some idiot jumping off. It'd be bad PR for the school."
"Ugh, I don't think you should call them idiots."
"Sorry, force of habit."
I arrived, sat down, leaned against the wall, and opened my food.
I always bring two meals—one for me, one for Yuki. I'd bring more, given our appetites, but that'd be suspicious. Best to eat one lunch each and fill up at home.
She took hers and started eating. Hey, Yuki, at least wait for me; I want to eat with you.
"This is delicious as always, Saik!"
Seeing Yuki's smile makes all those hours studying recipes and the trial-and-error to replicate them worth it.
Yeah, definitely worth it.
I'm useful for something, huh…? That feels… really good.
"Tha…"
I shut my mouth.
Someone's coming. I hear their footsteps.
"Yuki, stop eating."
"Yeah, I heard it too."
Someone's getting closer. Ah, Sylphie, I know you're desperate for friends, but this is too much. I have my own life; don't cling to me so much.
5… 4… 3… 2…
"Oh… Hi."
Wow. I thought it was Sylphie, but it's another girl. Her voice is a bit more… feminine? I don't know how to describe it.
I looked into her eyes.
Well, well. Unlike Sylphie, this girl isn't adorable—she's beautiful. Sylphie's cute, but I consider her more adorable than beautiful because of her innocent face, though I don't find her shy side adorable; who'd call a psychological issue adorable?
This girl is beautiful, like an actress or singer. I don't know much about that, but I at least have the basic knowledge to recognize a beautiful girl.
Long blonde hair down to her waist, blue eyes, rosy white skin, large breasts almost as big as Sylphie's, smooth legs from my perspective, and slightly thick but healthy thighs… Why do the girls at this school wear such short skirts? Even Sylphie, who's super shy, wears a short skirt. I'll never understand women's fashion or women in general.
What's she doing here?
She's clearly a popular girl. I doubt she's a loner. After all, she's a walking beauty. Is she like Sylphie? Ah, please, no.
"Hi."
I returned the greeting out of basic politeness, but I'm not talking to her. A beautiful loner girl isn't normal, so if I get involved with her, I'll be getting into unnecessary trouble again.
I ignored her and kept eating.
"Can I eat here?"
I'd say no, but this is a public place; I have no right to refuse.
"I guess so. I don't own the place."
She laughed a little.
Did I say something funny? Maybe she laughed out of awkwardness or something.
"Thanks," she said, smiling.
Wow… She's really beautiful. Her smile reminded me of my mom, and she was a very, very beautiful woman.
I'll say it again: What's she doing here?
I'm not handsome or popular, so she's not a girl in love with me like in the romantic novels I read.
That leaves one option: she wants me to help her study.
She definitely wants to use me.
I won't allow it. I already have enough with Sylphie; I don't want another burden in my life.
"Wow. Saik, look at her. Is she foreign?"
Blonde hair isn't common in this country, so it's possible, but she doesn't have a foreign accent. Maybe her parents are foreign.
Yuki sighed and rested her head on my back while floating.
"It'd be rude to leave just because she's here, and we've already lost a lot of time. Let's eat here, Saik."
Don't worry, Yuki; once I refuse to help her, she'll leave.
Do I look like a charity, random girl? I have enough problems; don't drag me into yours.
•
•
… Ten minutes passed, and she didn't say anything.
We're just eating in silence… Wow… Did I judge her wrong? Ah, my mom would be so disappointed in me for judging someone without knowing them. Mom, understand me: Sylphie's annoying, Saoto feels like he'll be a snob trying to befriend everyone, and Ram's probably the type obsessed with being the best. It wouldn't be surprising if someone else tried to mess with my normal life.
But, well, I'm almost done. Don't worry, Yuki; I'll eat faster so we can leave and find another place for you to eat… Ah, I got a notification.
I pulled my phone from my pocket… Perfect. The new event's finally available. Time to collect those gems.
I opened the game, and the game's classical music started playing. I like the melody; it's sad and epic at the same time.
"Oh, you play it too?" she said, hearing the music.
Does she play, or is it just an excuse to talk to me? Mom, I won't disappoint you this time. I'll confirm her intentions before jumping to conclusions.
She came closer and sat next to me.
So close… It's uncomfortable. Hey, random, didn't they teach you about personal space? Well, at least she smells nice, like… floral perfume? Something like that.
"What level are you?"
"I'm barely level 35."
"You must be really good! I'm only level 17."
Wow, that's good. Levels in this game are hard to grind. It took me four years to reach this level, though I only play occasionally, not much. She's probably been playing for at least a year.
She's not lying about the game to talk to me… I hope.
Well, she's the first person I've met in person who plays this game. Yuki plays too, but not much.
Talking to her about the game could be nice.
"Ah, I see. Have you collected all the chests and keys from yesterday's special event?"
"Fufu. I did it in under an hour," she said proudly, puffing out her chest.
She really seems to like the game.
"Ah, wow. It took me two hours."
"Hey, would you help me beat the water flower? I need its materials to upgrade my character, but I can't defeat it."
I was planning to play the event, but helping her sounds more fun. Plus, playing with others is more fun.
"Sure, give me your player ID."
"Thanks!"
She opened the game and gave me her player ID.
I added her… Crystal? Don't girls usually pick cooler names?
"Fufu. Your name's 'AlucardFire'?"
"Yeah. Sounds bad?"
"No, sorry. It just seemed a bit weird."
"And what does Crystal mean?"
"Oh, it's my name."
Crystal, huh? Crystal… Weird name.
"I see… Well, we still have a few minutes. Let's kill that flower."
"Yes!"
•
•
(POV - Yuki)
I'm starving! And I can't eat because she's here.
It's not fair!
Well, at least Saik's socializing a bit.
Though I suspect that girl has ulterior motives. It's super suspicious that a girl that beautiful is in a place as lonely as this.
Don't worry, Saik; I'll keep an eye on her! I won't let anyone take advantage of you!
I'm the only one who can mess with you!
… They're distracted.
Fufu. I'll take the chance and eat a bit.
I grabbed some food and started eating.
I need to watch out so I don't get caught. Eat slowly, very stealthily.
Ah, I look like a cat eating like this… It's not fair!
•
•
(POV - Saik)
Well, we need to head back. Lunch is over.
I'll admit, playing with someone else is pretty fun. Playing solo gets boring after a while. It's more fun to see lots of characters fighting on screen than just one.
"Thanks so much for helping me! Phew. It was so hard to beat, but thanks to you, it was super easy!"
"No problem."
"Let's play again sometime. Bye, see you later."
She left… Good…
I sighed and turned to Yuki.
She was eating super slowly while Crystal was here, but now she's eating way too fast. So fast, I doubt she's even tasting the food.
"Yuki, food is meant to be savored and enjoyed. Enjoy your food. Eat slowly."
"But we need to head back."
I patted Yuki's head.
"Eat well. I'll skip a class so you can eat more comfortably. Plus, I have things to think about regarding Sylphie's mom."
"You sure?"
"Yeah, don't worry. Enjoy your food."
"Thanks…! Though skipping a class is kinda…"
"Don't worry; skipping one class a month won't hurt me. Just enjoy the moment."
"Then I'll take your word for it!"
She kept eating, but this time, she eats slowly, savoring every bite.
So adorable.
Ah… I'm sleepy.
•
•
I skipped a class to eat with Yuki, but also for another reason.
I need to think about what I'll do with Sylphie's mom.
I'm going to her house today, so I need to plan my actions carefully.
Obviously, skipping a class will affect my grades, but I don't care right now.
For now, all that matters is achieving my plans and keeping my promise.
I have three years to become the top student, but only a month to help Iris before it's too late… Maybe less.
Time's running out, and I don't want to stay stuck.
•
•
While Saik reflected on what he'd do at Sylphie's house, Iris was losing her mind.
Sitting on her bed, she slapped herself over and over, each slap harder, trying to silence the voices in her head.
Voices that kept repeating her life's mistakes and how horrible she was as a person and mother.
Tears streamed mercilessly from her eyes, and the sounds of her sobbing and pain filled her room.
Reliving her past over and over, re-experiencing the pain and suffering that had stayed in the past but returned to torment her again.
Iris had a tough childhood, and her adoptive family forced her to work in a restaurant, paying her nothing under the excuse that they covered her studies. They treated her like a slave until Noel pulled her out of that life.
Iris was like Cinderella, treated like garbage and rescued by her prince charming… And that doomed her to become useless.
Noel always took care of her, protected her, and worried about her well-being… But he never taught her to be independent. Maybe because he thought it wasn't necessary, assuming he'd always be there, or he simply didn't realize how vital it would be.
After Noel's death, Iris didn't know what to do. Since meeting Noel, all she did was stay by his side and be a housewife; she hadn't worked since leaving the restaurant.
Iris was in a tough spot, having to raise her daughter alone and support her on her own, but Iris is a woman who doesn't even know how to support herself, let alone her daughter.
The stress of that sudden change in her life ended up breaking her. Alcohol became her best friend, as it made her forget the pain, at least temporarily, and during that brief time, she felt like she was back in the past, not suffering or worrying about the future.
But since those voices appeared in her head, she hasn't touched alcohol, because the guilt of her actions is consuming her.
Those voices remind her of the failure she is as a person and as a mother.
"I know, I know, I know!" she repeats to herself, slapping her face.
Noel is a good person, that can't be denied, but by overprotecting Iris, he turned her into a useless woman.
•
•
(POV - Saik)
Class ended, and I went to Physical Education.
Ram and Sylphie gave me weird looks, but I don't care.
I sat in my spot and pulled out my PE uniform.
Yuki went to keep an eye on Crystal since she's suspicious of her. I'm suspicious too, honestly. It's wrong to judge her without knowing her, but better safe than sorry.
I hope she's not planning anything bad against me; it was fun playing with her, and I'd like to keep playing with her in the future, but only in the game. I don't want to hang out with her in real life—so lazy.
Everyone headed to the changing rooms to get ready.
Well, for me, this class is a piece of cake since I work out every day. I'll use this class to relax a bit and keep thinking.
I glanced at Sylphie, who's walking beside me but keeping her distance.
Ah… Seriously, so complicated.
•
•
Classes ended, and I can finally leave. PE was easy—just some basic exercises and running. I took it easy and ran slowly, not overdoing it, unlike some classmates who treated it like a challenge, running as if there were a prize for the fastest. If it were a competition, I'm 100% sure I'd win without issue, but since it wasn't, I took it calmly.
Also, I just noticed Sylphie has terrible physical stamina. She couldn't handle running for a minute, and I had to help her, teaching her how to breathe while running and warm up her muscles better beforehand.
At least that class helped me get closer to Sylphie.
Ah, and her breasts bounced a lot while running. Big breasts are so unnecessary. Why is Yuki jealous of big breasts? They're uncomfortable and pointless. Women are so weird.
No wonder Sylphie got tired so fast. Running with those big breasts must be torture, having to be careful not to lose balance and fall because of those kilos of fat called breasts.
I waited for Sylphie, and we headed to her house together.
Ah, the first group project. I can't force the class nerds to do it for me anymore, so I'll try to deliver something decent to not drag Sylphie down.
"Ah, it's a cloudy day. So refreshing."
"Y-Yes… I-It's a nice day."
I keep my distance to avoid making her uncomfortable.
I don't look at her and just look straight ahead.
I guess this way she won't feel uneasy around me.
•
•
(POV - Sylphie)
"I like days like this. I feel more comfortable. It's not cold or hot. Perfect weather for walking. Do you prefer cold or heat, Sylphie?"
"C-Cold…"
"I like both. I like heat because it lets me wear comfier clothes. And I like cold because it lets me enjoy cloudy, refreshing days."
Saik is… a kind person.
I can tell he's keeping his distance and avoiding looking at me to make sure I don't feel uncomfortable.
Unlike other guys, I don't feel scared when I'm with him… Why do I feel like I can trust him?
Honestly… I don't know.
I barely know him, and I trust him… Why?
I don't know… I don't know.
… Maybe… it's because… he's like me.
I have my mom, so I can't compare myself to him, who lost his parents and is alone in life. But I feel like Saik is someone who could understand me.
"… Saik, can I ask you something?"
"As long as it's not about math, sure."
"… Why don't you like combing your hair?"
I'm an idiot.
I wanted to ask about his life and if he's happy.
He lives alone. That must be so lonely for him. He helped me, and I want to be able to return the favor. I want him to know that I'm… I-I'm his friend, and he's not alone anymore.
"Mostly laziness. If I comb my hair, I'd have to keep combing it because the wind would mess it up. I'd rather avoid that, so I don't bother."
"I-I see."
Just looking at his face and body, I can tell he has a great physique and a nice face.
When the wind moves his hair, I can see his face for a second, and it's pretty nice.
He'd definitely be popular with girls if he showed his face better.
His personality is… weird… He's a strange guy, but kind… He doesn't have ulterior motives with me. He doesn't look at me with lust… He's definitely a kind person… I think that's why I trust him so much.
…
…
…
I don't want to lose my only friend.
What if my mom's drunk again? I don't want him to see me as the daughter of an alcoholic… But there's no turning back… Or… Maybe…
"S-Saik… W-Would you like to go to a café to work on the project? I-I don't want to bother my mom."
"Sure, that's fine. I think showing up unannounced wouldn't be good… Alright, let's go."
I only have enough money for a coffee, but it'll be enough… I-I hope.
•
•
(POV - Saik)
Ah, I knew this might happen. Sylphie's embarrassed about her mom again… Well, I knew this was possible, so I've got something planned.
We arrived at a café Sylphie recommended. It looks a bit cheap but cute. The only annoying thing is the waitresses dressed as maids, but I'll ignore it.
We sat at a table, and a waitress came over.
"What would you like to order?"
"I… just want a coffee."
"Anything to eat?"
"N-No, thanks."
I see…
"I'll have two chocolate milkshakes and two burgers with fries. Thanks."
"It'll be ready in a few minutes."
The waitress left, and I pulled out my notebook from my backpack before Sylphie could open her mouth. Sorry, Sylphie, but I won't take no for an answer.
"Like any good project, planning is the most important part. We need to gather key information and organize it, then split the work and build on that, and finally put it all together."
"Y-Yes."
•
•
After 10 minutes, the waitress returned with our order.
"Enjoy."
She left, and I placed a milkshake and a burger in front of Sylphie, who started trembling with nerves, unsure how to react to this situation.
Getting something for free from a classmate is weird, and you might feel guilty or bad about it, but we're supposed to be "friends," and friends do this… I guess. Personally, I don't consider you a friend, but to help you become independent, this is necessary. Thanks to Yuki for making me do this; thank her.
"Here."
"W-What? N-No. I-I can't accept it."
"If we want our project to be good, we need to do it right. Sylphie, you need energy. Eat, please; coffee won't give you the energy you need."
Unable to refuse, she nodded shyly, looking down, feeling a bit sad or guilty.
I know your financial situation, Sylphie; don't worry, I won't take advantage of it… Well, at least not of you. Your mom's a different case.
"I-I'll pay you back tomorrow."
"No need… Let's make a deal."
She got even more nervous when I said that.
She probably misunderstood me… Ah, do I really seem like a pervert?
"In exchange for the food, you'll let me copy tomorrow's homework."
"Huh? T-The math one?"
"Yeah."
"But… It's so easy."
"Yeah, it's an easy assignment, but I'm too lazy to do it. Deal?"
"…"
Sylphie nodded even more shyly than before, nodding so fast it's like she doesn't know what she's doing.
Realizing what she's doing, she stopped and looked away to avoid eye contact.
"Y-Yes… Thank you so much… Thanks."
"You're welcome."
Good…
Wow… She is approaching the desired point. It was faster than I thought.
I need all my power.
"I need to use the bathroom."
I pulled my glasses from my backpack and went to the bathroom.
Good, no one's here.
I looked in the mirror… This will be cruel, but necessary.
I removed my contact lenses, and my eyes turned gray.
"Ghosts Number 13 and 14… Ghosts of Sadness… Maximum power."
That'll be enough.
My eyes returned to their natural color, and I sighed.
I can't wear contact lenses for a few hours; it's bad for my eyes.
I put on the glasses and washed my hands.
Ah, wearing glasses with my hair covering my eyes is uncomfortable… I need to comb it.
•
•
(POV - Sylphie)
… Saik knew I didn't have money, so he bought me food. And the math homework is so easy that even I find it easy. He only did it so I wouldn't feel bad… He's definitely a kind person.
One day, I'll return the favor.
"Alright, let's get started."
Huh…? Saik's back… And he looks so… nice.
He put on glasses and combed his hair a bit. It's still messy, but now I can clearly see his eyes… They're so nice… Light brown eyes… They're… beautiful.
He'd definitely be popular with girls if he wanted.
"S-Saik… I-I didn't know you wore glasses."
"I wear contact lenses, but I don't like using them for too long. And since we'll be here for an hour or two, I'd rather wear glasses."
"… And you combed your hair."
"I feel uncomfortable with hair covering my eyes when I wear glasses."
"I-I see… Y-You look nice."
"Thanks. Alright, let's continue… By the way, have you called your mom? So she doesn't worry."
"I-I'll call her now."
•
•
(POV - Iris)
My head hurts so much. I haven't felt well lately.
Nightmares keep me from sleeping. The nausea won't go away… Why do I feel so bad…? Why…? I don't know… I don't know.
And the voices… Those damn voices won't leave my mind.
"Ah… Everything's spinning…"
Huh…? My phone's ringing.
Someone's calling me… It's my daughter.
P-Please, let it not be bad news.
I answered the call.
"Is something wrong, Sylphie?"
"Mom, I'll be home a bit late. I'm meeting with a… f-friend to work on an assignment."
"A… friend?"
"Yes… A friend… B-But he's a kind person, he doesn't have ulterior motives! You don't need to worry about me! I'll be home in two hours."
"… Yes… Alright."
She hung up… My daughter… has a friend.
"And it's not thanks to you!"
"Your presence only hurt her!"
"You're no longer useful to her!"
"She can survive without your help!"
"Disappear from her life!"
"You're just a burden in her life!"
"A burden to society!"
"A burden to everyone!"
… Damn voices in my head… Huh?
"A-Am I… crying?"
… Yes… Those voices are right… My daughter has a job… She's self-sufficient… She doesn't need me… I'm just a burden to her… I'm the worst mother… I don't deserve to live.
She'd be better off without me.
•
•
(POV - Saik)
The two hours passed, and we finally finished the first part of the project.
I asked the waitress for the bill so we could leave.
"Here you go."
… Wow, I ordered a lot. Well, I was ordering every 30 minutes, so it's obvious this would happen. I did it so they wouldn't kick us out, but I might've overdone it.
Sylphie got super nervous seeing the total, but even though it's a lot of money, it's nothing to me. I can pay this without issue.
"Alright…"
I pulled out my wallet and paid with my card.
"Thank you very much."
The waitress left.
"Well, I guess that's it. We'll continue tomorrow. I need to go buy something."
"Saik… Do you work?"
"No, but I plan to get a job in the future… Sorry, I gotta go."
"I-I need to go too… T-Thank you for everything, Saik… Thank you so much."
"You're welcome. See you tomorrow."
"Y-Yes… See you tomorrow," she said… smiling.
She smiled at me. Very shyly, but she smiled. Big progress, huh?
We left the place and went our separate ways.
Everything went perfectly; now I need to wait a week for the final result.
Or maybe less.
•
•
(POV - Yuki)
Ah… That girl wasn't planning anything bad. She's smart and sociable. Also kind. No one hates her… Why did she eat in such a lonely place?
Someone like her always eats surrounded by friends.
Something's off… I'm curious, but I doubt I'll find anything without Saik's help. And that idiot won't help me since he gets no benefit from it.
"Ah…"
A big sigh escaped me, and I put my face on the table, though it passed through since I don't have my body activated.
"Something wrong, Yuki?"
"Nothing, Noel… I'm just a bit curious about a girl from Saik's school."
"What happened?"
"Well…"
I told him about what happened at school today. He was a professor, so he might help. Maybe he had experience with a similar student.
"Hmm… I think it's most likely she just wanted a moment of peace and quiet. Being surrounded by people all the time can get annoying."
"Yeah… I guess you're right."
So… Is that girl like Saik?
She doesn't seem like it. She's very sociable, and Saik is… Well, Saik is… a Saik.
A guy who only cares about himself and always wants to be alone.
And, of course, never smiles!
One day, I'll see a genuine smile from him… One day!
But, well, Saik has everything to be popular but wastes it because he prefers being alone.
Is that girl like Saik? Does she prefer being alone over socializing? Pretty people are so weird.
Yeah, I'm beautiful, but I'm not weird… right?
"I'm back."
"Saik, welco…! Saik? Is that you?"
My heart started racing faster than it usually does when I see Saik… So cute!
Why don't you wear glasses every day, idiot?! Now you actually look like a normal person!
"Wow… Saik… I thought you were just a regular guy, but you're… cute… Not handsome… Cute."
"… Thanks, Noel… I guess."
"Hmm… I've got it. Saik, would you like to marry my daughter? I want cute grandkids, and you'd be the perfect husband for Sylphie. You're the first guy I feel would make my dear Sylphie very happy."
"No, thanks. I don't plan to marry anyone. Sylphie and I will only be friends, nothing more."
"Such a shame. But remember, you'll always have my approval."
"Though I'll never need it… Yuki, stop staring at me like that; it's uncomfortable."
Saik with glasses… His eyes are so nice… He looks so cute!
He's totally my type…! Ah… I'm dead, that's right. And I look like a 10-year-old girl… Life's not fair!
"It was a long day. Sylphie's a good girl. I thought she'd be shyer, but I think I've earned her trust."
"You're a good guy, Saik. You can earn anyone's trust," Noel said.
"… Though I don't consider myself a good person."
Saik placed a bag of ingredients for dinner on the table.
"We're having homemade pizza tonight."
"Yay! Pizza! Let's make it with lots and lots of cheese!"
Huh? S-Saik's patting my head.
"Of course, we'll make it with lots of cheese."
… My heart raced even more.
He's so cute!
I wish he'd always wear glasses and comb his hair.
So much wasted potential!
•
•
While Saik and the others prepared dinner, 91 was staring at a photo of Shadow—a small 6-year-old boy with black bandages covering his eyes and gray hair.
They called him Shadow because a black aura surrounded him, and he vanished without a trace. Well, that's what the rumors say. The truth is, Shadow named himself Shadow simply because he thought it sounded cool.
"One day, I'll find you, Shadow… I want to meet you… And destroy you… You took our legendary ghosts that cost us so much effort and lives to obtain. You won't get away with it."
That's her personal goal, but the main objective behind the search for Shadow is far more important—so much so that they're willing to risk angering a being who could kill them without issue if they keep bothering him.
They know their pursuit could enrage him, but the risk is worth it, considering what they want from him.
•
•
(POV - Saik)
While kneading the dough, I felt a chill.
I feel like someone's planning something bad against me.
Ah… More problems. Can't I have a normal school life?