Chapter 119: Return to the City

Chapter 119: Return to the City

This novel is translated and hosted on bcatranslation

On the citys primary thoroughfare, workers began the process of dismantling the security barricades that had previously blocked off the road. Once these barriers were removed, traffic was allowed to flow freely once more. Vehicles of all kinds cars, trucks, and motorcycles began moving in every direction, gradually dispersing from the area.

Within a short period, the majority of individuals who had been present at the location had departed. Only a handful of observers remained. Their task was to closely monitor the remnants of what used to be Yellow Hill Village, ensuring that no unforeseen incidents occurred again in the wake of its mysterious disappearance.

While looking for a way back to the city core, Miles was offered a lift by Stretch. Grateful for the gesture, Miles accepted and soon found himself in Stretchs car, heading towards the heart of the city.

As they drove, Stretch, his voice tinged with uncertainty, broached a topic that had been on his mind. You know, Ive been scheduled for an appointment at that research company tomorrow. If all goes well and quickly, I might soon have the capability to control a second ghost. Im hoping this will give me more time and maybe prevent the re-emergence of the malevolent spirit thats haunting me. Im curious, though. Why did you decline their offer when they approached you?

Miles took a moment before responding, The procedure they offer has a success rate of less than 20%. Its too risky for my liking. Youre brave to give it a shot, but I wanted to give it more thought. I believe that over time, they might refine the process and increase the success rate. Thats when Ill consider it.

He continued, I have the luxury of waiting for a while longer. Besides, the offer stands, and I trust James to keep his promise. Let me know how your experience goes, and depending on where I am with my situation, Ill reconsider.

Stretch looked paler than usual. I understand your cautious stance, he murmured. But time isnt on my side. Im not sure I can endure long enough to control another spirit. He seemed to wince, hinting at some hidden pain.

Miles noticed Stretchs discomfort. You dont seem in the best shape. Youre sweating profusely. Its almost like youre suffering from heat exhaustion. If it gets worse, maybe you should lie down in the trunk. If something were to happen to you, dealing with your internal spirit would be quite a hassle for me, he half-joked.

Stretch grimaced, No, its not that. During our confrontation with the ghost, it managed to injure me. Theres a gash on my back, and Im losing blood. I need medical attention soon.

Miles raised an eyebrow, That explains your state. I was half-hoping Id get to perform some last-minute rites for you.

Ignoring Miless dark humor, Stretchs mind wandered to a previous incident. He remembered seeing Miles betray Frank for a profitable outcome. It made him wonder if Miles was growing fond of turning on his friends.

After a brief pause, Stretch, driven by curiosity, finally asked, By the way, is that rumor about the ghost candle actually true?Updated from novelbIn.(c)om

Miles stared at Stretch with evident astonishment. Ghost candle? What on earth are you referring to? Did we have a conversation about this earlier that Im unaware of?

Stretchs expression became noticeably darker, a hint of frustration evident. Im not plotting to snatch away your ghost candle. Why are you suddenly on edge about it?

Miles leaned in, lowering his voice to a mere whisper, Be careful! We cant be certain whos listening. The fewer individuals aware of this item, the safer it is. Remember, Spear City isnt just our domain. Even though a significant number of the Cockroach Club members met their end, there are undoubtedly other ghost tamers in the shadows. What if they overhear our conversation and are tempted by the allure of this coveted item?

River was momentarily taken aback, struggling to find a suitable comeback.

Just reached the city, Miles continued, shifting to a more serious tone, Ill ping you my coordinates shortly. Make your way here. Theres something I need you to deal with later.

Rivers irritation vanished, replaced with enthusiasm. On my way! Expect me soon.

Miles, disconnecting the call, seemed lost in thought. What made River so eager to see him? Was there a hidden agenda?

Stretch, trying to make conversation, inquired, Dropping you off here? You live in this neighborhood?

Not exactly, Miles responded, Ive got a craving for some decent food. That packed sustenance in Yellow Hill Village was dreadful. Its heavy, bland, and leaves you feeling overfull. Remember, I shared my contact with you. Buzz me if anything arises.

Stretch responded hastily, No, scratch that. If anything pops up, Ill ring you. But please, dont initiate contact. Lets be clear, we arent buddies.

Stretch contemplated inviting Miles for a shared meal. But given the awkwardness that had transpired, he dropped the idea.

Miles quipped, Until next time.

With a perplexed expression, Stretch allowed Miles to alight from his luxurious sports car, accelerating away without any delay.

Miles, eyes gleaming with admiration, murmured to himself, What a sleek vehicle. Someday, when Im flush with cash, Ill get myself one.

He then proceeded to a fast-food outlet in a neighboring plaza, eager to indulge in some greasy comfort food. However, beneath the citys luminescent streetlights, a singular, chilling shadow trailed Miles. Regardless of the direction of the light, this solitary shadow loomed intense, elongated, resembling a stretched-out silhouette of a tall figure lying prostrate on the pavement. Disturbingly, this shadow was decapitated.

Ever since the incident in Yellow Hill Village, this eerie, headless silhouette had become a persistent, disquieting companion to Miles, symbolizing peril and dread.

The fleeting shadow that trailed Miles was unlike any other. Pedestrians, unaware of its unique nature, would inadvertently step on it. While no physical harm was done, they experienced an unexpected cold shiver as though a winter draft had momentarily caressed the underside of their feet. This peculiar sensation would vanish the moment they lifted their foot as the shadow continued to glide along with Miles.

Excuse me, Miles called out, the rumble in his stomach urging him on, Im terribly hungry. May I jump ahead in line?

The young lady he had addressed turned, a look of shock evident on her face. She seemed to be weighing whether Miles was joking or genuinely out of his mind.

Realizing his approach might have come off as odd, Miles hurriedly clarified, Im sorry, I didnt phrase that well. What I meant was, could I possibly move ahead in the queue? Ive been without proper food for days, and Im starving. My apologies for the abruptness.