《My Mystique Hunting System》


 Chapter 1 — The Red Haired Lady

    INTERFACE..


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    .


    Ghosts.. Demons.. Monsters.. are they real?


    You might''ve heard about them from movies and tv shows. Hell! you might''ve sensed them under the covers of your sheets.


    Scared, you might''ve reported this to your parents as a child who only dismisses this as a childish tantrum and told you that it was going to be alright.


    Told you to not be afraid..


    However should you?


    Hell no! You should be afraid! because these monsters are not just a figment of your imagination.. they are real!


    Believe me, I know this because I hunt them down myself!


    I am Jason Chris.. A Mystique Hunter!


    .


    .


    .


    Vroom!


    A black sedan pulls over at the entrance of a night club glowing with brilliant neon light, making it extremely conspicuous in the darkness of the night.


    Three teenagers alright from the sedan as they stare at the night club before them.


    "J.C, I don''t think coming here is a good idea" after eyeing the two unfriendly looking bouncers at the entrance, one of the teens couldn''t help but develop second doubts.


    Her name was Aletta and she was the only female among the group.


    "Don''t worry. The dude I bought the ID from swears it''s a fake legit. Not even the FBI would be able to tell" the teen at the middle patted his chest with a confident expression.


    Jason Chris.. he was the spoilt trust fund brat of the multi billionaire tycoon Simone Chris. Sporting raven black hair and a well chiseled body, Jason appeared to be a lot more developed than the average teenager.


    "Why don''t you ease up Aletta? today is our last day at highschool. We should at least have some fun?" the last teen in the group shrugged his shoulder.


    Stephen.. sporting a build far more muscular than Jason, Stephen appeared to be only a tad bit inferior to the two mean looking bouncers.


    However compared to his build, his chubby face made his appearance more comical than domineering.


    "Your brother is right Aletta. You should ease up a little bit " Jason licked his lower lips, anticipation flashing in his eyes.


    "Fine. But I am only going to have one shot!" Aletta finally gave in.


    "Suite yourself"


    Swaggering towards the night club, the two bouncers stationed at the entrance moved, blocking Jason''s path


    "This place is strictly on invitation" the one at the left grunted.


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    "Here" Jason flashed a decoratively looking card before their eyes. Only after sternly inspecting and confirming it was legit did they nod their heads.


    "You can go"


    "Uhm. Those two came with me as well" Jason pointed towards Aletta and Stephen who were behind him. Aletta was already starting to fidget anxiously.


    Boom!


    The trio had just stepped into the nightclub when the loud noise of dj disco music almost blasted their ear drums into a bloody mush. Staring at the bustling scene before him, Jason chuckled with excitement as he screamed at the top of his lungs.


    "Let''s have some fun!!"


    .


    .


    Clop. Clop. Clop.


    A pair of red heels collided gracefully on the ground as a lady in red cocktail dress cat walked towards the night club. A white fox furred coat was drapped loosely over her, slightly exposing her fair and supple neck bones.


    Her lips were painted fiery red and her ginger red flowy hair was drapped over her shoulder.


    When the two bouncers saw her approaching, they reacted for a moment before regaining their composure.


    "Show us your invitation" although they were attracted to her beauty, they didn''t allow that to come in the way of their job.


    They were strictly told not to let anyone through the door without them showing proof of invitation.


    "Ah.." the ginger beauty covered her small lips as she let out a small yelp of surprise.


    "I seem to have forgotten it back at my place. Can''t you let me in without it?" while speaking, a pink glow flashed in her eyes for a split second.


    The Bouncer at the left made to deny her request when his colleague besides him beat him to the punch.


    "Sure!" his lips split into a fawning smile as he gave way.


    "What are you doing buddy? you can''t just let her pass without an invite!" his colleague stared at him, appearing puzzled.


    "I did. Because she said so!"


    "You''re crazy man " the bouncer at the left made to block the path of the ginger haired beauty.


    "Deal with him now would you ?" the gingered haired beauty flicked her fingers as she walked past the shocked bouncer.


    "Hey--" before the bouncer could finish his sentence, his colleague rushed towards him, tackling him to the ground.


    "What are you doing buddy? get the hell off me!" he demanded angrily as he attempted to push the other man off him.


    "I will deal with you because she said so!" his colleague seemed to be hypnotized as he fished out a pocket knife from his back pocket.


    Splurt!


    Gurgle!


    The bouncer underneath choked on his blood as he held his slit up throat while his hypnotized colleague slowly dragged his dying corpse away.


    While all this was happening, the ginger haired beauty had already made her way into the nightclub.


    .


    .


    "You lose again amigo"


    "Damnit!" downing another shot of vodka, Jason cussed as he glared at the tattooed man who chuckled while packing stacks of cash off the poker table.


    This was the third poker game he had played so far, which ended in his loss, like the two games before it.


    Just as Jason made to down another shot, he heard an alluring voice sound from behind him.


    "You really suck at this"


    Looking over, he noticed a gingered haired beauty in a red cocktail dress staring at him, with an amused smile.


    "What do you know? I always beat my poker instructor at every game. He''s a renowned grandmaster" Jason snorted with annoyance.


    His voice was already starting to slur, thanks to the alcohol in his system.


    "Hmm. Is that right? then it is either your instructor is a sham.. or he just likes letting you win" the ginger haired beauty chuckled as she occupied the vacant spot of the sofa, next to Jason.


    "I''m Alicia" she smiled sweetly at him.


    "Tch. Not interested. As you can see I gambled away all the cash on me so.. except you offer free service" Jason hiccuped.


    "Whoa. What does a seventeen years old like you know? you think I am a hooker?" Alicia giggled with amusement.


    "What the f ck! how do you know my age?! who the hell are you?!" Jason shot up to his feet, glaring at Alicia warily.


    "Hehehe. I know so many things about you.. Jason Chris.." seeing the current expression on Jason''s face, Alicia licked her lower lips.


    "Jason?" just then a surprised voice rang from behind them as Aletta and Stephen made their way over.


    When they saw Alicia, shock and panic flashed in their eyes. However they quickly covered it up.


    "J.C who is this hottie?" Stephen patted Jason on the shoulder as he nudged towards Alicia who currently had an amused smile on her lips.


    "Dunno. She suddenly approached me and knows both my age and name.. we have to get out of here now guys, before we get busted!"


    "Yeah. Yeah. I think that''s a good idea J.C" Stephen nodded like hen pecking on grains.


    Giving Alicia one last look, both siblings supported Jason''s drunk figure through the backdoor of the nightclub.


    "What a surprise. Looks like some nosy people beat me to the punch " Alicia mumbled in amusement as she watched the trio leave.

 Chapter 2 — System Activated!

    Drip. Drip. Drip.


    The sound of sneakers colliding against wet mushy grass echoed in the silence of the night as Jason stood before the gigantic gates of the Chris Manor.


    Currently the large gate was left ajar. Lying a few feets away was a corpse who Jason identified as one of the Manor''s Security Guards.


    "What the hell?!" an ominous feeling couldn''t help but creep into Jason''s heart as he sped towards the large Manor Building.


    Along the way, he ran past more than ten corpses carelessly laying around. However Jason was too worried about his parents condition to pay the corpses any heed.


    "Mum! Dad!" Aiden cried with hints of dread as he hurriedly pushed open the Manor Entrance door.


    Looking over, his face became ashen when he spotted a corpse at the foot of the staircase. It was the corpse of the Manor''s Head Maid.


    "No!" Jason''s lips trembled.


    Miss  Nicholas. She was his Nanny and also his wet nurse when he was a little baby. She was like a second mother figure to him. Yet here she was before him.. a cold corpse.


    "Mum! Dad!" forcing back the torrent of tears building up within, Jason literally flew through the flight of stairs. Along the way he ran into the corpses of the Manor Maids and servants.


    The repulsive smell of blood hung thickly in the air. Ignoring the sickening smell, Jason finally arrived at the Kings Room of the Manor.


    Pushing open the door, he found a figure standing in front of the window. A few meters away were two corpses on the ground.


    Identifying them as his parent''s corpses, Jason attempted to rush towards them only to run into an invisible force field that flung him slamming to the wall.


    "Don''t tell me you are ignoring my presence boy?" a sneer rang out as the figure in the room turned around.


    "Uncle Ben??!" Jason''s eyes flashed with confusion.


    "Hello Nephew. I take it that you are doing alright?" Uncle Ben snickered as he slowly began to walk towards Jason.


    "Uncle we have to take my parents to the hospital or  they won''t be able to make it. I don''t know what happened but it would seem that the Manor was attacked. We have to hurry now Uncle!" Jason cried anxiously.


    "Oh.  I know that.." Uncle Ben chuckled as he pointed towards  Jason.


    "That''s because I was the one who did this"


    "You--"


    Jason suddenly felt an invisible grip on his throat as he got swept off his feet, floating in mid air as the invisible grip choked him.


    "It would seem you were late.. like always dear Nephew. You are always late. Whether it was the duration of your pregnancy, your first time to talk or walk.  You were always late. This isn''t good though. You missed the fun part of how your parents screamed in agony while I killed them. It was quite refreshing. The look on your parents eyes as I ripped out the life out of them while in this meat suit. It was quite refreshing actually.." Uncle Ben snickered evily as he arrived before Jason, patting his cheeks.


    "Don''t despair though. You are going to join them very soon.. however you just have to do something for us.." Uncle Ben reached for Aiden''s forehead.


    "Unfortunately this is the end of the road for you!" a feminine voice suddenly rang, followed by a quick chant.


    "Eugua!"


    Boom!


    A searing hot ball of red flames shot towards Uncle Ben. Judging by the intensity of the heat, he would be burnt into black crisp if the ball of flames collided with him.


    "Tch. Nosy Hunters!" Uncle Ben snickered as he calmly side stepped, dodging the ball of flames.


    "Jason! duck!" the warning had only just rang out when a figure dropped down from above, a large axe chopping towards Uncle Ben.


    Splurt!


    An arm flipped through the air as Stephen appeared in front of Jason. In his grip was a large axe that was glowing a brilliant golden color.


    "Stephen?" Jason felt the invisible grip vanish as he gave Stephen a puzzled look.


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. "Eugua!" another chant rang out as Aletta walked into the room. A  glowing Tome was floating mid air in front of her.


    A strange pattern suddenly appeared in the air as another ball of flames shot out from this pattern, slamming towards Uncle Ben.


    "Damnit" Uncle Ben cussed as he dodged the fireball yet again.


    He seemed to be moving like a phantom.


    "Till we meet again Nephew" dropping these words, he suddenly raced towards the door, breaking past it and disappearing into the dark of the night.


    An awkward silence suddenly ensued as Jason gave the siblings before him a look.


    "What the hell is going on?!"


    .


    .


    Rustle. Rustle. Rustle.


    Jason calmly stood before a burning altar as he watched his parent''s corpses gradually burn into ashes. It was unknown what was going on in his mind.


    "How are you holding up?"


    Looking over, he saw Aletta staring at him intently.


    "What do you think?" Jason''s lips broke into a mocking smile.


    "I came home to see my favorite Uncle murder my parents. My friends are ghost hunters undercover and I am currently targeted by Demons. What do you think?"


    "Sigh. I don''t really expect you to digest everything all at once. However we have to move now" Aletta''s tone was filled with urgency.


    "What the hell are you talking about? my parents just died.  Am I not allowed to mourn them?" Jason frowned with displeasure.


    "I don''t mean to come off heartless, but I am afraid you don''t have the luxury to do so"


    "You see that demon who possessed your Uncle Ben? we only scared him temporarily and he won''t stop until he has you.. we have to take you to a safe sanctuary "


    "What would a demon want from me anyways?" Jason was starting to grow frustrated


    Things just didn''t make sense to him at this point. Although he was a spoilt rich brat and a jerk, he never ever recalled pissing off a demon.


    "We don''t know. I and my brother were just tasked to protect you and take you away once you clocked eighteen. We never expected the demon to make a move so fast " Aletta sighed.


    "So the friendship we shared.. it was all fake?" Jason gave her a deep look.


    "I..." Aletta didn''t know how to reply.


    "That''s okay. Where are we going to anyways?" Jason asked.


    "Washington DC "


    "That''s pretty far from here. I don''t suppose we are going to use a private jet?"


    "No. Its going to be a long road trip.."


    "That works fine. I can use that time to have my revenge!" Jason clenched his fist.


    "Don''t start talking crazy now. We were asked to protect you from the demon. Not mark you as a target!" Aletta firmly disagreed.


    "Hmpfh. If you were in my shoes, don''t tell me you are going to sit back? since this demon took the people most important to me, I''m going to have my revenge no matter what it takes" Jason  vowed icily.


    At that moment the hate he was feeling was so intense.


    "How? I mean you don''t even know where this demon is!"


    "Hmpfh. Didn''t you say your brother and you are Mystique Hunters or something? I am going to be one too and I will slaughter any ghost or evil creature that I set my eyes on till the time I have the head of that hateful demon on a plate"


    Jason had only said this when he heard a robotic voice in his head.


    ¡ª[Congratulations! Host has successfully awakened the Ultimate Mystique Hunting System!]


    ¡ª[Host can earn Mystique Coins by annihilating Mystique Beings..]


    ¡ª[Mystique Beings are beings who belong to the Supernatural lore. They include Witches, Wizards, Angels, Demons, Werewolves, Vampires, etc]


    ¡ª[Host has been chosen to be the Ultimate Hunter, ridding the world of all mystical beings]


    ¡ª[Host can use Mystique Coins to upgrade and purchase the Mystique Hunting Armors, purchase and upgrade weapons as well as other miscellaneous tasks which the host would discover with time]


    ¡ª[Happy Hunting!]

 Chapter 3 — I Dont Believe In Angels

    "You''ve been silent since we hit the road. Is something going on your mind?" Aletta glanced at Jason through the rear view mirror as she controlled the wheels of the car.


    Besides her was Stephen who was busy scrolling through the screen of his phone.


    "Well..I don''t know" Jason shrugged with a helpless sigh.


    "I remember a certain someone complaining to me how it was difficult to move the wheels of a car. Yet here you are twirling it around like a seasoned expert "


    "Look, I''m really sorry for those years of lying. We were just doing that to protect you okay?" Aletta sighed apologetically.


    "Yeah. Yeah. Protect me by lying directly to my face all this time. You guys should definitely win the award for best friends of the decade " Jason snickered sarcastically.


    "So, where are we going exactly?" he asked after a pause.


    "To restock. Our supplies are running dry. Without them we cannot protect you and do our jobs" Aletta replied, her eyes fixated on the road ahead.


    "Supplies? yeah that reminds me, what''s up with that flying fireball you created? are you a witch or something?" Jason asked as he seemed to have remembered something.


    "No. I am a Saint. While my brother is a Knight" Aletta giggled as she shook her head.


    "There are four kinds of Mystique Hunters.. Saints, Summoners , Knights and Xpers" she added, noticing the look of confusion on Jason''s expression.


    "Look Jason.. what do you think of Vampires? I mean the one you watch in the movies and tv shows?" she suddenly asked.


    "Huh? they have pale skin.. super strength, super speed, tough bodies and they drink blood. Uhm, their weakness is direct sunlight, a stake to the heart and holy water. Oh.. they can die as well if their heads is sliced off" Jason easily answered.


    Of all the lores in the movies, the Vampires were the most renowned. There were a lot of movies and series centered around them after all.


    "Unfortunately, Vampires are nothing like those shows and movies depict them to be. Sure they have their supernatural abilities, they don''t fear sunlight, decapitation, a stake to the heart or holy water"


    "Seriously? aren''t they invincible then?" Jason gave Aletta and Stephen a suspicious look.


    "To regular humans yes. However not for we  Mystique Hunters. Only a Mystique Hunter can battle these kind of supernatural creatures, however not everybody can be a Mystique Hunter. We possess a unique gift that was either awakened through us when we were babies or after an accident" Aletta took a pause to catch her breath before she continued.


    "Saints like me have the unique ability to enter a contract with a Patron Angel, allowing us to channel an esoteric force called Hallow. This gives us the ability to recite Hexes. What you saw me do yesterday was reciting a fire Hex  off my Hex Tome . However Hallow is a powerful force so we need a conduit "


    Dipping her hands into her bossoms, Aletta held up a rosary. Unlike other rosaries, this one was pure White like snow and depicted an angelic being  clasping both hands together in a prayer like manner. The figurine wore flowing robes and has a bright halo like ring floating above their head.


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    "I thought Angels have wings" Jason commented when he saw the rosary.


    "That''s just rumors. Angelic wings is a sign of power. Only the top three Angelic Orders possess one. I am contracted to the lowest order.  The Watcher Angels" Aletta replied.


    "His name is Nephi. And although he belongs to the lowest Angelic Order, he''s very strong. I can barely use ten percent of his power without destroying this holy rosary "


    Peering closer, Jason noticed fine but thin cracks along the surface of the rosary.


    "So this Rosary is kind of like a conduit to possess angel energy? and you are telling me that you have a guardian Angel sitting across your shoulder?" Jason mused.


    "Although it''s not that simple, but it pretty much sums it" Aletta shrugged.


    "That''s crap.." Aiden snickered.


    "Huh?"


    "Guardian Angel? I don''t believe that make believe kids tale. If Angels really do exist, they wouldn''t have sat back and watch a demon massacre through my home and murder my father"


    "I.." Aletta made to reply when Stephen tapped her shoulder lightly before whispering.


    "Just give him some time to grieve "


    .


    .


    After that conversation with Aletta which went haywire, the car ride plunged into an awkward silence. Stephen kept himself occupied with his smartphone, Aletta had her focus on the road ahead while Jason...


    Well, he was staring at a panel screen that only him could see.


    .


    .


    ¡ª[You have two Unread Notifications]


    A string of words appeared on the panel screen. Mentally clicking on this floating tab, a new row of words appeared.


    ¡ª[Congratulations on Awakening the Ultimate Mystique Hunting System. Host has received a starter pack!]


    ¡ª[Stater Pack Includes three essential Items that would assist Host in his early days of Mystique Hunting]


    ¡ª[First Item in the Starter Pack is the Void Vial]


    ¡ª[Second Item is the Sprite Pupils]


    ¡ª[Third Item is the Klypt Daggers]


    ¡ª[The Void Vial is a rare treasure that has been long lost to the annals of ancient history. Forged by the genius forge master Saluma in the Forges of Xectate, this Vial possess the unique ability of unlimited space and can hold any non sentiment matter property. This includes Liquid, Solid or Gas. Since the space is unlimited, there is no limit to how much matter the vial can handle]


    ¡ª[However like everything that exists, the Void Vial has a weakness. It can only store up a single matter at once. To store up another matter, the previous matter must be emptied out of the vial]


    ¡ª[The Sprite Pupil is a cheap knockoff item.. another treasure forged in the Forges of Xectate. It is said to mimic the unique ability of the occular technique; Eye Of the Dragon. This artificial pupil gives the bearer the ability to see through invisible objects, invisible being and the true nature of all things that belongs to the supernatural world. In front of this eye, all forms of disguise is laid bare as long as it is related to anything supernatural]


    ¡ª[However like everything that exist, the Sprite Pupil has a weakness. Using it for a long span causes huge headaches on the bearer, followed by drowsiness and unclear vision. If the Bearer doesn''t allow the effect to cool off, they would end up permanently going blind]


    Jason instinctively shivered when he read this information. Unlike the Void Vial, the Sprite Pupil sounded more like a hot potato to hold on to. Trying his best to bury his fright, he continued reading.


    ¡ª[The Third Item is the Daggers Of Cain.. Unlike the previous two items, this is Hell''s number one protected treasure. Said to have been forged out from the Wings of all the fallen Angels along with Lucifer in the fiery flames of Purgatory, this Twin Daggers has the unique ability to kill all supernatural beings in existence]


    ¡ª[However the Daggers Of Cain currently possess a weakness.. they are damaged. In their damaged state, the effect of their absolute death inducement is limited. The daggers can regain their full strength by absorbing the essence of all supernatural beings slained by it]


    After reading these info on the panel screen, it immediately refreshed, before a new display appeared on the panel screen.


    .


    .


    ¡ª[HOST INFO]


    ¡ªName: Jason Chris


    ¡ªAlias: J.C


    ¡ªTitles: None


    ¡ªRace: ¡é¡ì%¡ê~£¤€^¡é£¤¡Ì¡ê€^^¡é£¤¦Ð¦Ð¡Ì€^£¤


    ¡ª[COMBAT]


    ¡ªCharm Stats: Locked


    ¡ªARMOR


    ¡ªLocked (100,000 mystique coins to unlock)


    ¡ª[Missions]


    ¡ªNone


    ¡ª[Mystique Coins]


    ¡ªNone


    ¡ª[Tools]


    ¡ªVoid Vial (fully awakened)


    ¡ªSprite Pupil (fully awakened)


    ¡ªDaggers Of Cain (lv1) +


    ¡ª[Inventory]


    ¡ªVoid Vial


    ¡ªSprite Pupil


    ¡ªDaggers Of Cain

 Chapter 4 — Running Into A Malevolent

    "Why did we stop?" Jason was forced to close the system panel screen when he noticed the vehicle come to an abrupt halt.


    "We are just going to grab some stuffs. Till then make sure you wait in the car. Whatever you do don''t step out alright?" Aletta warned Jason sternly as she got down from the car.


    The car was currently parked in the parking lot of a convinence store.


    "Hm" Jason merely hummed.


    "Let''s go " Stephen gave Jason one long look before leaving the car as well. Jason watched silently as both siblings made their way into the convinence store. It was currently late noon and the inflow of customers was very high. As such both Siblings were instantly drowned amongst the large crowd of people making their way in and out of the store.


    Only after Jason had confirmed their departure did a sly grin grace his lips. Opening his palm, a strange object suddenly materialized, landing on his palm.


    It was a pair of crimson colored pupil lenses . This was one of the three items of the starter pack that Jason received from the system; The Sprite Pupil.


    "Let''s see if this stuff really even works" with skeptism, Jason brought the pupil lenses closer to his face. Pasting them into his cornea, he suddenly gasped in shock.


    That was because his vision underwent a ridiculous transformation. Whether it was the walking pedestrians, the moving vehicles, the thick walls of the various stores lining the walkway, Jason could clearly see through them, kind of like an x-ray vision. He could see through the skeletal structures of the walking pedestrians, the inner working mechanism of the vehicles, what was happening through the thick walls of several stalls.. he could see through everything!


    "Arrgh!!" a raspy groan escaped Jason''s lips as he tightly clutched his head. The sudden switch in vision caused a tsunami of headache to flow into Jason''s brain. It was a stinging feeling.


    However after blinking rapidly and shutting his eyes for a few moments, the feeling dispersed.. However Jason had now learnt his lesson and didn''t dare to look around carelessly.


    Just as he was about to put away the Sprite Pupils, he suddenly received a notification from the system.


    ¡ª[A Malevolent has been detected!]


    "Malevolent?" just as Jason was musing about what the terms meant, another row of words appeared on the system panel screen.


    ¡ª[After the physical body dies, a living entity is left with a soul. At this stage, there are two options.. either the soul gets taken away to Hell by the Grim Reapers.. or they become Hermits..]


    ¡ª[Hermits are wandering souls who still retains emotional attachment to the world of the living, unwilling to move ahead. After a long time, these Hermits tend to become corrupted by the seven emotions and six desires, transforming them into a shadow of their original selves.. transforming them into Malevolents]


    ¡ª[The power level of a Malevolent broads down on two things.. the accumulated intensity of their corruption and the number of Hermits they have absorbed into themselves]


    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    ¡ª[You are 300 meters away from the Malevolent]


    .


    .


    Tap. Tap. Tap.


    A teenage girl with twin pigtails clad in snow white denim jackets and shorts underneath a lace leggings panted heavily as she was engaged in a sprint along the main road.


    However the most puzzling phenomenon was that although she was running through the main road, the moving vehicles always seemed to move past her while the pedestrians walking by the sidewalk seemed to be ignoring her impulsive and suicidal efforts.


    It was like she didn''t exist in their eyes.


    "Ah. Ah. Ah" panting heavily, the strange girl leaned against the entrance wall of an alley way as she seemed to be in the process of catching her breath.


    "You.. You are a ghost?" a startled voice suddenly rang out from behind her.


    "Huh?" turning back, the strange girl noticed a teenage boy staring at her, with slightly shaky feet.


    "You can see me?" she pointed her chest as she appeared shock.


    "Yeah?" currently Aiden was putting on the Sprite Pupils, as such he didn''t know that he was the only one who could see the invisible ghost girl.


    Fortunately for him, they were at a slightly abandoned alleyway, or passerbys would''ve started giving him strange looks for talking to thin air.


    "Thank goodness! I thought I was going crazy already!" the ghost girl appeared relieved as she inched closer to Jason, only for the teen to take two steps back.


    "Don''t worry, I am not like the others" she smiled sadly when she saw his cautious behavior.


    "The others? what do you mean?" Jason inquired suspiciously as he took another step back.


    "I remember dying after three months in coma. Then this guy in black suit asked me to follow him. Naturally I refused. However.. after he left I noticed that everybody around me seemed to not have the ability to see me. Not to mention anything I touch goes past me. Just as I was feeling confused, this strange man came along and said he could see me and take me to a better place"


    " When I refused, he and another lady suddenly attacked me. And that''s how I ran until I met you. Are you dead like me too? " the ghost girl spoke so fast that of it was a regular human, they would already be choking for breath.


    "No.." Jason shook his head when suddenly his eyes lit up in realization.


    "Uhm.. when did you say you died again?"


    "About three hours ago?"


    "Eh? then you must be a Hermit.. you can''t be the Malevolent then.. however if you are not it... then where is it?" Jason was in the midst of mulling over this when the ghost girl suddenly cried as she pointed behind him.


    "Watch Out!"


    The warning had just come out when Jason suddenly felt a wave of icy air overwhelm him. Without even thinking, he jumped to the ground . He had only done so when a couple of broken bottles flew past his head, smashing into the walls. If he hadn''t reacted quickly, his head would''ve already been smashed into a bloody pulp.


    "Huh?" looking over, he saw his attacker through the Sprite Pupils.


    It was a middle aged bald headed man sporting dirty t shirt and khaki shorts. His eyes were currently silver in color and through the Sprite pupils, Jason could spot a crimson halo surrounding him. From afar, Jason could sense a bone chilling cold sensation from this crimson halo. It reeked of death and malevolence.


    Without even checking a text book, Jason instantly recognized the other party.


    "Little Girl, better give up trying to escape. You cannot escape from me" the Malevolent spoke in a weird voice that resembled teeth grinding against each other in the cold nights of winter.


    Just then, Jason received a series of notifications from the System.


    ¡ª[A Level 2 Malevolent has been spotted!]


    ¡ª[You have unlocked Two Missions]


    ¡ª[Main Mission; Defeat the Malevolent]


    ¡ª[Malevolents are wicked creatures who terrorize the innocent folks and gives them nightmares. A large majority of them were terrible sinners while they were alive. As a Mystique Hunter and the Host of the Ultimate Mystique Hunting System, it is your job to rid the world of these vile creatures]


    ¡ªMission Reward: +200 Mystique Coins]


    ¡ª[Side Mission; Protect the Wandering Damsel In Distress]


    ¡ª[The Malevolent before you wishes to absorb the Hermit Ghost Girl behind you. As the Host of the Ultimate Mystique Hunting System, uphold your honor by serving as her Knight in shiny armor]


    ¡ª[Mission Reward: +20 Mystique Coins]

 Chapter 5 — Amy Wormwood

    "Good afternoon, what can I get you both?" the female shop assistant smiled at two Siblings from behind a booth.


    Aletta silently fished out a strange azure colored card. When the female shop assistant saw this card, a mixture of surprise and shock flashed in her face as she bowed her head respectfully.


    "I had no idea. My boss had been expecting you" she said while standing up.


    "Don''t bother. We know our way around" Stephen coldly said as he began to walk deeper into the convinence store.


    Moments later, the siblings arrived at a wall; a dead end. However, Stephen suddenly slit his thumb with a pocket knife, rubbing his bleeding finger across the surface of the wall.


    Click. Clack.


    The sound of mechanical gears whirling, echoed like a groaning nagging old hag as the wall split open, revealing the elevator door behind it.


    "Tch. I don''t get why she has to go through all this security protocol. She''s just a pawn shop runner" Stephen rolled his eyes as he slid the azure card into a small slit. With a mechanical beep, the elevator door part open.


    "Brother, what are your thoughts about Jason''s earlier words?" Aletta turned towards Jason after they boarded the elevator.


    "You mean how he wants to be a Hunter like us? don''t tell me you took those words serious?" Stephen snorted.


    "He was just raving because he was mourning the death of his dear daddy. Once he encounters a ghost or two, he would have no choice but to piss off his pants. I have spent time with Jason and I know what he''s capable of. He''s a selfish and narcissistic rich brat who plays naughty tricks and hides behind his dear daddy for protecting. He don''t have the stomach to face what we face.. the world of the paranormal "


    Aletta fell silent for a bit as she gave her brother a deep look.


    "Wow. I wonder how Jason would feel hearing just how low his friend thinks of him "


    "It''s because I am his friend that''s why I don''t want his life to be as messed up as ours " Stephen retorted.


    "If it isn''t messed up already " Aletta shook her head.


    "Don''t forget brother.. Jason''s current situation reminds me of what --" Aletta''s words was cut short when the elevator door parted open, revealing a spacious hall.


    The hall was strangely a mixture of a bar, restaurant and pawn shop. Lining the walls were strange talisman, weapons, rosaries and other items each encased in a see through glass. There was also a bar section, filled with shelves of exotic kind of drinks.


    There was also a large booth where various delicacies and junk food were served. The whole hall appeared to be in a bustling mood, with several people either checking out the show glasses, chatting amongst themselves while they drink or eating their food calmly.


    The siblings arrival instantly made them the center of attention.


    Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    "Wassup kiddos. You both aren''t dead yet?" a fattie with worn out sun glasses hanging across his forehead guaffed as he chugged down on a large bottle of bear.


    "Hmpfh. If an old bastard like you isn''t dead yet, what monster would be blind to strike the killing blow?" Stephen grinned, causing the Hunters gathered in the hall to burst into a fit of amused laughter.


    "We heard you siblings took out a Siren last two weeks.. did you manage to steal some mermaid tears of riches before you sent her to hell?" a middle aged Hunter whose bushy beard was stained with alcohol, chuckled as he wrapped his thick arms around Stephen''s shoulder, appearing merry.


    "Sly bastard. Keep your hands off my pocket!" Stephen snarled as he pushed the other party away, drawing another fit of laughter from the Hunters in the hall.


    "It''s rare to see you kids drop by, come, I''ll buy you lunch" a female Hunter who was dining on three cheeseburgers and coke, patted at the empty chair besides her.


    "Thanks. But we''ll take a rain check. We are currently on an assignment and we came here to refill our supply" Aletta declined with a small smile as she led her brother deeper into the hall.


    Passing through a dimly lit hallway , they arrived before a door. Pushing it open, they walked into an office.


    The office was well arranged and a slender lady in black office suit and a pair of specs hanging lazily atop her nose seemed to be reading an old looking book from behind her well arranged desk.


    "Aletta.. Stephen.. you kids made it" the office lady smiled in relief when she saw the Siblings.


    Amy Wormwood.. she was the owner of the AW Pawn Shop and also the Siblings paternal aunt.


    "Why does everyone think we should be dead?!" Stephen groaned in frustration.


    "Why you said? you went against against a Red Witch. You should be lucky you came out alive.. have a seat" Amy pointed at the two seats facing her desk.


    "So, how is the boy?" she asked after the siblings had made themselves comfortable.


    "He''s with us.. safe"


    "And.. Simone?" Amy''s voice shook a bit.


    "Dead.. we are really sorry but the Red Witch acted ahead of schedule.." Aletta apologized when she saw a hint of pain flash past her Aunt face before disappearing.


    "Did she bring her entire coven along?" Amy asked.


    "We''re not sure" Stephen shook his head.


    "She didn''t?" Amy appeared puzzled.


    "Although the Red Witch is powerful, Simone was one of the most powerful hunters in the Hunters database.. although he was forced to retire, I don''t think he would go so rusty that a single Red Witch would be able to take him down"


    "Well..." Stephen trailed off as he seemed to be hesitating.


    "Spit it out!" Amy scowled at him.


    "The Red Witch didn''t make a move. When we arrived, it was Ben who made the move.." Aletta confessed.


    "He must''ve held back. We all know just what kind of relationship he shares with his younger brother. I mean he chose to abandon you because of.."


    "You brat! nobody abandoned me!" Amy angrily cut her niece up with a frustrated expression. Gradually calming down, she bit her lower lips as she seemed to be suppressing her rage.


    "That b*tch! how did she know Ben was an Hell spawn? only a few Hunters know about that! damnit! that crafty bi*ch. To think she would pit both brothers against each other.. that''s a new low even for her "


    Sucking in a deep breath, Amy managed to calm down her raging emotions.


    "Can I see him?" she suddenly asked meekly.


    "Are..Are you sure? I mean he''s that WOMAN''S son.. " Aletta asked with a complicated expression, emphasizing heavily on the ''Woman'' part.


    "What? you think I am going to kill him? although he''s the son of that b*tch, he''s still Simone''s son " Amy huffed, sounding offended.


    "Alright. I''ll go get him " Stephen stood up, exiting the office.


    .


    .


    Arck!!


    Jason vomited a mouthful of blood as an invisible force raised him high up in the air before viciously slamming him against the wall.


    Although his back bones didn''t break, Jason knew it was only matter of time before it did.


    Whisk!


    The Malevolent appeared besides Jason, stomping heavily towards his belly. Fortunately, Jason quickly rolled away.


    "I have to use it or I''m going to die" Jason bit his lower lips anxiously.


    Due to the headache the Sprite Pupils brought him, Jason had been forced to put them away. Without them, his ordinary eyes couldn''t track the invisible movement of the Malevolent.


    However now that his life was in critical danger, he figured whatever headache came along, was far better than suffering death at the hands of a ghost.


    Hurriedly putting the Pupils on, Jason''s vision instantly changed.

 Chapter 6 — First Kill!

    After putting on the Sprite Pupils, Jason''s vision experienced a change. His view of the whole world went red and the X-ray vision effect kicked in. However apart from that, Jason was now able to see the Malevolent''s invisible body clearly.


    "My left" stomping heavily on the ground, he lurched to his right, dodging an incoming bike that smashed against the wall behind him.


    Leveraging on the Sprite Pupils, Jason discovered that the crimson halo encasing the Malevolent suddenly transform into multiple tentacle like serpents that lunged towards him. Their movement was so fast that before Jason could have any thoughts of escaping, they had already arrived before him.


    Smack!


    However to Jason''s puzzlement, he didn''t feel any sharp stinging pain. Instead he felt an invisible but heavy force smash against his chest, throwing him against the wall.


    "Koff. Koff" wiping off the blood trickling out from his mouth, he side rolled just in time to escape another crimson tentacle from the Malevolent.


    Bang!


    A large dent appeared on the wall behind Jason, causing the  teen to suck in a deep breath of gratitude. That would''ve been his head if he was only a tad bit late.


    "We have to run!" the Hermit Ghost Girl attempted to grab Jason''s wrist, only for her hands to phase right through him.


    "No" Jason shook his head stubbornly as he glared heatedly at the Malevolent in the distance.


    According to the system, defeating this Malevolent came with a reward; Mystique Coins. He wouldn''t leave until he completed the mission and received the reward.


    A pair of silver colored curved daggers suddenly appeared in his grip. This was another item that came with the system starter pack; The Klypt Daggers AKA the Daggers Of Cain.


    Breaking off into a sprint, Jason dashed towards the Malevolent. Fortunately for him being the son of a multi billionaire Jason had the privilege of having many mentors; a sportsman athlete was one of them.


    Whallop! Whallop! Whallop!


    The crimson tentacles moved rapidly as they either wrapped themselves around nearby objects which was hurled at Jason, or directly smash towards him. In the blink of an eye, Jason''s view was filled with falling obstacles and a large web of crimson colored tentacles.


    "Humphh!" recalling the physical fitness lessons he took in the past, Jason skillfully maneuvered his way through these obstacles. Leaping towards a vehicle flying towards his way, he initiate a front flip while in mid air, slamming the bonnet with both palms , his wrist twisted in an agile manner while his body flipped all over, shooting forward.


    Initiating a side flip, he avoided the webs of crimson colored tentacles and finally landed in front of the Malevolent, stabbing one of the Klypt Daggers towards his chest.


    "Hmpfh. Stupid brat. That toy won''t work on--" the Malevolent was leisurely snickering in mockery  when his whole body suddenly stiffened.


    "No! Impossible!!" he suddenly shrieked a Jason drove the dagger further into his chest.


    The body of the Malevolent suddenly began to glow brilliantly before exploding into brilliant specks of light that flew into Jason''s forehead.


    ¡ª[Congratulations! Host has Completed System Main Mission; Defeat the Malevolent]


    ¡ª[Host has received +200 Mystique Coins]


    ¡ª[Congratulations! Host has Completed System Side Mission; Protect the Wandering Damsel In Distress]


    ¡ª[Host has Received +20 Mystique Coins!]


    "That''s it?" Jason stared at the spot where the Malevolent had been previously standing on.


    He only just needed to stab the other party and they vanished like a poof? Jason''s confidence instantly rose all the way to the moon. He had previously thought that Malevolents were going to prove tough opponents but this...


    They were far weaker than he would''ve ever imagined them to be!


    He had only just returned the Klypt Daggers back into the System when he heard approaching footsteps from behind him. Looking over, he saw Stephen staring at him with furrowed brows.


    The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. "I said you should strictly stay in the car"  Stephen fussed as he scanned Jason with his sea green eyes.


    "Are you hurt?"


    Sensing the unexpected concern in his voice, Jason cringed. If it was a lady that was fine.. but a fellow guy like him? it just felt weird hearing it from Stephen''s mouth.


    "What are you? my mum? I just came here to hunt a Malevolent" Jason threw his arms in the air as a proud grin etches on  his lips.


    "You what?!" horror flashed in Stephens eyes as he hurriedly reaches towards his back pocket. Feeling a small manual still safely tucked in, he gave Jason a strange look.


    "How do you know about Malevolents? did Aletta  tell you that?" he questioned sharply.


    "Is that necessary?" Jason grunted with a proud smirk.


    "I had my first kill today. And I did it so easy. Humphh, aren''t I awesome?" Jason''s expectant eyes fell on Stephen, as he waited for a huge wave of praises.


    "Now isn''t the time to joke around Jason " doubt flashed in Stephens eyes. Naturally he didn''t believe Jason''s words.


    Of the myraid creatures in the world of the paranormal, the creatures Hunters hated to tangle themselves with were the Malevolents. This was because they had the ability to turn themselves invisible. Only a select few Hunters had the ability to see them and this required years of honing their skills. As such Stephen wouldn''t believe a complete novice like Jason could survive the assault of a Malevolent. As for killing it, that was nothing but a pipe dream.


    Malevolents were completely immune to physical attacks. Only Saints and powerful Items could exorcise and destroy them.


    Just as Stephen was about to drag Jason away, he suddenly noticed something on the ground from the corners of his eyes.


    "What are you doing?" Jason pursed his lips in confusion as Stephen suddenly knelt on the ground, scooping a silver colored dust that was mixed with earthen dirt.


    "Ghost Ash!" utter disbelief flashed in Stephens eyes.


    Ghost Ash was something that was left behind after a Malevolent had been successful destroyed. Every Ghost Ash was unique and could not replicated. As such Stephen was confident that the Ghost Ash trapped in between his fingers was the real deal. However didn''t that mean Jason was correct when he claimed to have killed a Malevolent.


    "How did you do it?" he stuttered, his voice still hasn''t recovered from the shock and surprise from the discovery.


    "Wait.  Your eyes.. they are red" Stephen finally noticed Jason''s pupil color was different than normal.


    "Really? you must be overthinking things" panicking, Jason swiftly removed the Sprite Pupils, returning it back to the system. Luckily for him he could do this either manually or mentally.


    "Maybe" Stephen mumbled when he noticed Jason''s pupils had returned back to normal.


    "So, how did you kill the Malevolent?" Stephen repeated his earlier question.


    "I am a natural. That''s how" Jason lightly puffed out his chest.


    Stephen fell silent as he  gave Jason a deep look before releasing a sigh.


    "I have to admit, I really underestimated you. I am sure Amy and the other Hunters would be shocked when they hear about this" Stephen chuckled as he patted Jason on the shoulder.


    "Since you killed a Malevolent, you better gather the Ghost Ash before they disperse. Without them you won''t be able to get your reward" he advised, tossing Jason a small vial.


    "What''s this?" although the vial shared a slight semblance with the Void Vial, Jason pretended to be oblivious.


    "That''s a Storage Vial. It is the only thing that can prevent a Ghost Ash from dispersing. After you gather the Ghost Ash I will take you to meet someone. At the same time you can submit the Ghost Ash. Your reward would depend on the power level of the Malevolent " Stephen explained, before walking ahead.


    "I really wonder how he did it. For a moment I am confident his eyes were red " he mused to himself.


    "Looks like Jason has a secret of his own "

 Chapter 7 — Lets Go To Sallyville

    "Is it just me? or is the car awfully quiet?" Jason forced out a chuckle.


    Since the trio hit the road after making that stop at AW Pawn Shop, the ride had been heavily ladden with stifling silence. At first Jason didn''t mind the silence as he busied himself with observing the azure colored card he was given after submitting the Ghost Ash of the Malevolent he had killed.


    However after training his eyes on the card for a whole hour and counting, Jason''s eyes were already starting to water and the immensity of boredom crashed heavily on him.


    "I don''t see how that''s a problem.. we didn''t speak much on the car ride earlier today" Aletta clicked her tongue..


    This time it was Stephen behind the wheels while she scrolled through her phone in a relaxed manner. Jason snickered inwardly. How couldn''t he tell the reason for the silence.


    "Somehow I have a feeling that you both are not ready to acknowledge the fact that I can take care of myself. I mean, I killed a Malevolent. And according to Amy it was a rank two Ghost Soldier. No matter how you put it, that''s an amazing feat" Jason couldn''t understand why he was the only one feeling impressed..


    Even if they were no longer friends, couldn''t the siblings at least shower him some praises just to keep on appearances?


    "Heh. That''s just beginner luck" Aletta snorted.


    "Don''t start having an inflated ego just yet" she added.


    "Although a rank two Ghost Soldier is impressive, it is nothing before the Demon who slaughtered your father" she warned sternly.


    "Tsk" Jason merely clicked his tongue. He obviously didn''t take her words seriously.


    Recalling how the Daggers Of Cain had easily killed the Malevolent from earlier, his ego truly became inflated.


    "According to the System, the dagger can kill anything it touches. Once I encounter that demon, I just have to stab it and its dead " Jason comforted himself with these words.


    To him, as long as he possessed the Klypt Daggers, he was invincible as long as the world of the supernatural was involved.


    "So, when am I going to get my reward money any way? thanks to you I didn''t leave my signature behind to claim my inheritance" Jason grumbled as he tapped both of his fingers across the surface of the azure card in his palm.


    After he had submitted the Ghost Dust, he had been given the card. According to Amy, this was the identification badge of the Mystique Hunters as well as a special kind of bank card. With it they could cash out on the reward money they get from slaying supernatural creatures.


    "The Ghost Ash has already been sent to the Headquarters in the Country. They''d have to document it first before sending you your payment" Aletta responded.


    "I know. Amy told me that. However how long is that going to take? I need to change my wordrobe thanks to a certain someone who dragged me away without giving me time to pack my stuffs!"


    "Sheesh" Aletta rolled her eyes.


    "I never realized this but you sure whine like a lady" she mumbled underneath her breath.


    "Expect your reward money in two days tops.. However I doubt if it would last half a day in that card " she said the last part in a whispery tone.


    "Shoot!" Aletta suddenly cried out in surprise as excitement flashed past in her eyes..


    "I found a gig that''s close to our current location " she explained to her brother when she noticed him giving her a curious look.


    "According to the reports of the locals, there has been seven body counts over the last one week. One each day " Aletta eyes were firmly planted on her phone screen as she read this out..


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement. "And you think its our kind of gig?" Stephen raised a brow.


    "Remember that our number one priority is to get Jason to Washington DC? We can''t afford to let anything come in the way of the assignment" he   alluded.


    "You know that I can hear you right?" Jason remarked from behind the siblings.


    Ignoring him, Aletta sighed.


    "But have you forgotten that above everything else we are Mystique Hunters. Seven people have already died and more would die. Don''t tell me you are going to just sit back and let that happen?"


    "We are not the only Mystique Hunters in the world. Others would take care of it.. how many times are you going to learn that no matter how much you try, you cannot save anyone?!" Stephen scowled as his fingers clenched tightly around the steering wheels.


    It was like saying this statement brought up bad memories that he didn''t want to remember.


    "But we are the ones who are closest. Unlike you I can''t just sit back and watch people die while I know I can do something to prevent that!" Aletta pouted stubbornly.


    "Eh.. you can''t watch people die if you are not present at the scene so get your grammar right" Jason''s voice rang out from behind the siblings.


    "You are helping matters here!" Aletta shot him a glare.


    "Fine. But on a more serious note I think you guys should take the gig" he said in a more serious tone.


    "That''s not going to happen" Stephen stubbornly shook his head.


    "Heh. You siblings are Mystique Hunters and from how Aletta put it, what we do help save people''s lives "


    "We?" Aletta sneered..


    "Just because you killed one ghost and received that card, that doesn''t make you a Mystique Hunter!" she retorted sharply.


    "Tch. Aren''t we on the same side?!" Jason''s lips twitched. However he continued speaking.


    "I don''t want to stand in the way of you both helping people. Not to mention with your both serving as my protectors, I feel like the safest person on earth "


    "Wow. I never knew you were this selfless. To think you would care about a life that isn''t your own " Stephen sounded surprised.


    "Actually you are right. I am only interested in the reward money. According to Amy, it is going to be split among the three of us if we do kill any supernatural creatures" Jason giggled maliciously.


    "Now, that''s the J.C I know" Stephen chuckled.


    However what the duo didn''t know was that Jason''s reasons were far more complex than he made it seem. Only Jason who was the Host of the Mystique Hunting System knew the true reason.


    "So, where is the location?" Stephen asked


    "Sallyville. It is seven miles away from here" Aletta responded as she took a quick glance at the map on the vehicle dashboard.


    .


    .


    Whoosh!


    Soft breeze whooshed past the several moving cars along the road as a silhouette arrived before the entrance of a an alleyway. A few distance away,  were broken bottle shards. Although someone took the effort to sweep away the broken vehicle parts, they seemed to have missed the shards of broken bottles.


    "This was where he was last seen" the Silhouette squatted down as they scooped up a palm full of dirt.


    The Silhouette blew softly, blowing away the dirt as a small amount of ghost Ash was revealed.


    "Hunters" the Silhouette said in a whisper, filled with immense hatred.

 Chapter 8 — Voices From The Dead

    ¡ª[TITLE CARD: A NIGHT AGO]


    "Double Kill!"


    "Headshot! Bravo!"


    The sound of an electronic announcement followed by loud gunshots rang out as two male teenagers sat before a plasma TV, their fingers clenched tightly around the game pad they were holding.


    The room they were currently occupying was dimly lit and littered with snack wraps and dirty clothes. It was the total definition of a messy hygiene.


    "Dude. What''s up with you huh? your Kill rate is less than normal" one of the teens sneaked a glance at his companion.


    He sported a head full of copper colored hair and appeared chubby.


    As for his companion, he had a slender build with a wavy cut sleek black hair.


    Ignoring the question, the black haired teen sneaked a glance at his phone resting on the nearby stool. His jaws clenched nervously.


    "Dude" his companion caught his body movement.


    "Don''t tell me you are seriously waiting for that phone call from your mum?" he chuckled, his tone laced with mockery and amusement.


    "I mean, she''s been dead for three years now, her medical reports proves it. Are you sure you were not just hallucinating?"


    The black haired teen gave his companion a look of disbelief.


    "We''ve been best buddies since we were kids Harry. Have I ever been the the impulsive type who loves pulling pranks?"


    Harry hesitated a bit before replying with a deep sigh.


    "I know. That''s why I think there''s something fishy here. You seriously need help, after all we both know how much of a deep relationship you shared with your mother Chris. This must be you still grieving over her death "


    Bang!


    Chris smashed his game pad against the wall as he glared icily at Harry.


    "I have stopped grieving over my mother!"


    Pain flashes past his eyes as he continued.


    "I.. I have moved on"


    Harry made to move his lips, only to be interrupted by the sound of a phone ringing. Chris swiftly snatched his phone from off the desk, hurriedly answering the call.


    "Mum!" he cried emotionally through the phone.


    "I know you were going to call!"


    .


    .


    The sound of crickets making their noises and the leaves of plants rustling rang out as two figures weilding flash lights, weaved their way through a series of tombstones.


    A twig suddenly snap, causing Harry to shiver as he gave Chris a look.


    "Shouldn''t we have come here tomorrow morning? I heard rumors that sniffing through a cemetery at the late hours of the night is a bad omen" he spoke in a whisper, mixed with dread.


    Ignoring him, Chris gingery continued walking. After passing through a series of tombstones, both boys arrived before a tombstone that read;


    IN THE MEMORY OF SILVA MONROE


    "When you said your mum wanted to meet you, you didn''t mention it was her tombstone" Harry nervously sucked in a deep breath.


    "Shut up and let me speak to her" Chris  icily shunned him up before kneeling before the tombstone.


    "Mother, I did as I promised. I came to see you"


    Whoosh!


    Harsh winds suddenly began to blow, causing Harry to instinctively look behind him. Seeing no one in sight, he sighed in relief.


    "Dude, you''ve seen your mum already, I think it''s time we start.." Harry''s words hung within his throat as he witnessed a scene that caused him to release a cry of horror.


    "Ahhhhhh!!!!"


    .


    .


    "Jason, just how long are you going to spend in the bathroom? not even Aletta takes that long" Stephen''s mockingly sneered as he sat behind a table, reading from a newspaper while sipping a steamy cup of early morning coffee.


    This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it "You do know I can hear you right?" Aletta giggle rang out from within the kitchen of the private hotel room the trio were occupying.


    "Tch. Those two bastards " Jason cussed from within the bathroom as his foamy figure stood before the running shower, adopting an hesitating stance.


    "What kind of stupid hotel room lacks a water heater huh?" he cussed as he felt his whole skin cringe just imagining the scene of him bathing in the shower''s cold water.


    As the son of a multi billionaire, Jason''s life was privileged. He always had his maids ready to heat his bath. The only times he had ever took a bath under a shower was during a camping trip. Jacuzzis were his daily plug!


    Damnit! Damnit! Jason was starting to miss his old life. If only that darn demon hadn''t come along!


    "You''ve been staring at the shower for half an hour now. You are even worst than those spoilt Disney princesses" Jason suddenly heard a familiar voice in his head, causing him to nearly trip.


    "Hello. We meet again" a figure appeared in his head.


    It was that Hermit ghost girl he encountered the previous day.


    "You! what the hell?!" Jason cried as he hurriedly covered his little ''bro'' with both hands and laps.


    "I''ve been watching you for a long time, so don''t bother trying to hide what I have already seen already" an amused voice rang out as the Hermit Ghost Girl appeared before Jason.


    She was still clad in the same outfit the last time they met; snow white denim jackets and shorts underneath a lace leggings. Her pigtails swayed softly even if there was no wind as she eyed Jason with a look of intrigue.


    "What the hell?! I just saw you in my head" Jason cried out as he inched back.


    He couldn''t help but cuss  the hotel architects for making their bathroom extremely small.


    "That''s because I entered a Soul Contract with you" the Hermit Ghost Girl chuckled.


    "You.. You possessed me?" Jason''s expression sunk.


    Thinking of how he was going to be possessed by a female Ghost and start acting lady like caused him to cringe.


    "No. I would never do that to my benefactor. If not for you I would be dead already" the Hermit Ghost Girl shook her head as her twin pigtails swayed.


    "A Soul Contract is kind of like a Symbiotic relationship where we both benefit from each other. Possession is different.. it''s a parasitical.."


    Jason swiftly cut her off


    "Even though I wasn''t the brightest at my biology class, you don''t have to treat me like a layman. You said we benefit from each other.. how?" Jason frowned, an ominous feeling welling up in his heart.


    "I.. I kinda stole your Mystique Coins " the Hermit Ghost Girl twisted her fingers nervously as her eyes faced the bathroom floor.


    "You what?!" Jason''s expression froze.


    Checking the System Panel screen, he discovers that the 220  mystique coins he had previously earned had been wiped clean. The Hermit Ghost Girl wasn''t lying.


    However Jason was more puzzled than angry.


    "How the hell.. wait! can you see the system?" Jason stared at her pointedly.


    As far as he could tell from the short span he gained the Ultimate Mystique Hunting System,  it was only visible to him.


    "The Soul Contract allows me to share the same body and soul with you. Although this System thingy of yours is hidden deep within your soul, I can see it" the Hermit Ghost Girl nodded.


    "However I can sense deep danger from it. From what I can tell, it isn''t good news. I think it is shackling something. As for what that thing is, I don''t know but I can sense the immense power from it" dread flashed in the astral face of the Hermit Ghost Girl as she said this.

 Chapter 9 — Cannibalistic Goat?

    "So, what''s our game plan right now?'' Aletta stared at Stephen deeply as she munched on her sauce coated fries.


    The trio were currently having breakfast together at the dining table.


    "I just finished reading the testimonial of a victim who according to him survived the strange incident" Stephen replied as he patted the newspaper on the table.


    "According to him, what ever happened, it happened so fast. One second he was looking behind him and the next, his room mate was a cold corpse with a half eaten heart besides him "


    "Blergh!" Jason suddenly covered his mouth as he seemed to be on the verge of puking..


    "Sorry Princess, is something wrong?" Stephen smirked.


    "If you want to be a Mystique Hunter like us, forget gory talks, you''ll see much worse" he added as he sipped from his glasses of milk.


    "So, what do you think we are dealing with here? a Malevolent?" Aletta pursed her lips.


    "There''s only one way to find out"


    .


    .


    "Sorry kiddos, but this is a crime scene. Only authorized personnels are allowed entry" James, Aletta and Stephen were about to charge into the cemetery grounds when a police officer blocked their path.


    The whole cemetery ground was wrapped with restrictive perimeter tapes. The whole place was swarming with Police officers as well as CSI officials.


    "Don''t worry Alfred, they are investigative reporters" the Sheriff arrived before the police officer blocking the trio.


    "Yeah. We''ve heard about the strings of murders happening in these parts so we are here to write an article about it" Aletta nodded as she showed the Officer a Journalist badge.


    Inspecting and confirming its authenticity, the trio were allowed access. The Sheriff nodded at them before returning back to his police vehicle in the distance.


    "Investigative journalist?" Jason gave the siblings a look.


    "What? we can''t just tell them we hunt Monsters for a living" Stephen snorted.


    "Does that Sheriff know the truth about you guys?" Jason noticed that the Sheriff happened to be strangely cordial and cooperative.


    "You can say he has some business dealings with the higher ups. People like him makes our job much more easier"


    Approaching a particular tomb stone, the trio noticed a group of CSI officials inspecting the corpse of a teenage boy. There was a large gaping hole in the middle of the corpse chest and besides it was a half rough eaten heart.


    "You can look away if you want" Aletta nudged at Jason when she noticed his cheeks turning green.


    "Nah..I''m good" Jason forcibly swallowed the puke down his throat. His resilience was quite impressive.


    "Hello, my name is Carol G, I am an Investigative Reporter for the Avalanche Forum. On the record can you tell me what you think of this corpse right here?" Aletta approached one of the CSI officials who happened to be an approachable lady.


    Seeing her speaking so formally, Jason almost fell for the act.


    "Judging by the clotting of the blood, this happened about ten to eleven hours ago.. whatever killed the victim, it moved very fast, judging by the way the victim offered zero sign of resistance. If not for the gory method the vic died, I might even say the victim knew the assailant " the female CSI replied with furrowed brows.


    "Do you perhaps know what did this? a lion? a tiger? a monkey perhaps?" Aletta asked.


    "Actually, my team noticed something peculiar and at the same time strange " the female CSI suddenly squatted, scooping up a handful of dirt.


    "We noticed that there were two kinds of prints on the ground when we first arrived.. one belonged to human, and the other belonged to a cloven foot "


    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. "You think a goat did this?" Aletta''s brows rose up in disbelief.


    "Don''t be ridiculous. Judging from the faint prints, the speed of the assailant was fast.. I might guess a deer. However..."


    "Judging by the eaten heart and how it was ripped out from the victim chest, I would say it was done by a row of sharp teeth. Have you ever heard of a deer with sharp teeth who feeds on the heart of humans?" the female CSI forced a laugh.


    "Indeed. It is really strange " Aletta nodded in agreement, an unknown glint flashing past her eyes.


    While she was discussing with this female CSI, Jason and Stephen were at another corner of the cemetery ground.


    "What age you doing?" Jason creased his brows in confusion when he saw Stephen raising up a silver colored orb the size of a tennis ball, while walking around like he was looking for something.


    "This is an ecto reactor. If it glows red, that means there had been an ectoplasmic activity " Stephen hesitated a bit before replying.


    "Speaking of which, you killed a Malevolent right? what was your experience battling it?" he suddenly asked Jason with a crafty smirk.


    "You still  think I was lying when I said I killed that Malevolent? that ghost ash proves it!"


    "I didn''t say anything " Stephen shrugged his shoulder.


    Staring at him deeply, Jason shrugged as well.


    "I don''t know, he had this strange ability that made him lift things up without touching them, kind of like telekinesis "


    "That was ectoplasm"


    "What?"


    "Ecto.. it is the unique energy weilded by Ghosts. It is invisible to the naked eye and what keeps them invisible as well. By extending ecto into a domain, whatever is within that domain gets influenced by their telekinetic ability. Knights like me are weak when we go against Malevolents because of their ecto domain. It''s a wonder how you managed to slay one "


    Listening to Stephen''s words, Jason recalled seeing a red miasma around the Malevolent he fought the previous day while he was wearing the Sprite Pupils. That must''ve been the ectoplasm Stephen was referring to.


    After parading around the whole of the cemetery ground  with the ecto reactor not glowing at all, Jason and Stephen regrouped with Aletta.


    "This wasn''t done by a Malevolent" Stephen shook his head as he informed Aletta.


    "Like I thought" Aletta held her chin as she seemed to be contemplating deep about something.


    "I think I have a guess regarding what monster we are hunting" she suddenly said after a while.


    "However we would have to pay a visit to the sole survivor for me to confirm my guess" she added.


    "That means we are paying Harry Stewart a visit... the room mate of the victim.. did you manage to get his address?" Stephen asked.


    "What do you think?" Aletta smiled before turning towards Jason.


    "Your face is more rosier compared to the first time we arrived here " she teased.


    "Hmpfh. I don''t break easy. Let''s go meet this Harry guy and nab this evil monster " Jason balled his fist, his eyes literally spitting out flames of conviction.


    "He sure is pumped up. I wonder if he''s going to remain that way when he encounters the monster for real " Stephen folded his arms on his chest as he whispered to his sister.


    "He killed a level two Malevolent without any prior Mystique Hunting training. He''s a natural so I am sure he will do just fine.. however I hope he doesn''t get too complacent and overestimate his abilities " Aletta muttered the last part.

 Chapter 10 — The Reverse Flash Killed My Friend!

    "Are teenage boys always this lazy?" Aletta held her nose as she stood in front of an old looking bungalow, whose lawn had already transformed into a thick bush of green that was threatening to swallow it up


    A few distance away, a large swat of flies happily danced around ten filled up garbage sacks oozing with nauseating goo. Forget Aletta, even Jason and Stephen were scrunching up their noses as well.


    "Do we really have to come here?" Jason rubbed his stomach with an ashen expression.


    He was starting to regret eating breakfast. First it was that corpse at the cemetery, now this garbage dump of a house!


    "Sorry Princess, but this is in the job description. You want to be a Mystique Hunter like I and my sister? get used to it!"


    Patting Jason on the shoulder, Stephen arrived at the porch of the bungalow, landing two successive knocks on the slowly rotting wooden door.


    Creeerak!


    Like the slow whining of an old lady, the door slowly slid open leaving just a small gap that allowed a chubby head to peek through.


    "Who are you?" Harry demanded, in a slightly shaky tone .


    "Are you Harry Stewart?"


    "Yeah?"


    "I am Daniel Johnston.. an Investigative reporter for the Avalanche Forum.. we would like to discuss your room mate death with you. It''s for an article we are currently working on if you don''t mind " although Stephen was saying this, his arms said otherwise.


    Pushing open the door, he nearly puked.


    "Is that rotten cheese?" he gave Harry a strange look.


    "Well... " Harry scratched his head.


    . Walking into the apartment, Jason immediately felt dizzy as well. The whole place was in a mess, with dirty clothes laying carelessly about. There was about thirty chips wraps packed and in a corner, a box of half eaten but now rotting pizza and game poster cards.


    A hell lot of them!


    "You are a gamer?" Jason noticed the play station console.


    "I and Chris were gamers.. we became one to escape the harsh reality of the real world.. only through gaming did we find our solace" Harry sniffed back the snot that was about to drip down from his nose.


    "Have a seat please" he pointed at the only four seater sofa in the apartment.


    "Don''t bother, we won''t waste much time" Stephen quickly rejected as he forced a smile.


    He couldn''t wait to leave this smelly dump. How could he afford to make himself comfortable?


    "So you claim to have been there when Chris died correct?" Aletta whipped out a pamphlet as she pretended to be jotting down notes.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    "Can you describe what happened? the more vivid the better for.. the article "


    Sucking in a deep breath, Harry began recounting what happened the previous night, starting from the call Chris got from his late mother, to them visiting the cemetery, then how Chris had mysteriously died.


    "So you are saying Chris got a call from his mother? and how long has she been dead?" Stephen asked after Harry finished speaking.


    "Fourth of November.. last three years ago.." Harry suddenly seemed to have recalled something..


    "Wait! yesterday was the fourth of November! do you think its the ghost of his mother who really killed him?" his face went pale with fright.


    "I escaped. Would she also come for me tonight?" he shrieked.


    "What a coward" Jason huffed underneath his breath.


    What was so terrifying about ghosts? he killed one a day ago and currently shares a Symbiotic contract with another!


    "Calm down, I am sure that''s all just a coincidence. After all.. ghosts aren''t real" although Aletta was saying this, a crease had already appeared between her brows.


    "You said your friend received a call from his mother? did you overhear their conversation? did the voice sound exactly like his mother''s?" Stephen asked, to which Harry nodded positively.


    "Maybe it might have been a voice changer who knows. So how long has he been getting those calls from his dead mom?"


    "Eh.. about a week ago.. specifically on Tuesday, at least that''s what he told me" Harry thought for a while before replying.


    "And you said you didn''t see the assailant?" Stephen narrowed his eyes.


    "Like I told the police, I didn''t.." Harry nervously clenched his fist. Although he hid it, Jason managed to notice it.


    "He''s lying " he sneered.


    "What?!" both siblings gave Jason a look.


    "I am a liar myself and I know one when I see one . You discovered something that night didn''t you? however you were to cowardly to spit it out " Jason smirked.


    However it was filled with disdain. The other party''s cowardly attitude seemed to be strangely infuriating him more and more.


    "It wasn''t that. Even if I said it, nobody would believe me!" nervously biting his lower lips, Harry finally admitted.


    "What did you see then?" Aletta put away the pamphlet.


    Harry''s next words were going to be the climax that would determine whether her guess was wrong or right.


    "While I was standing at that tombstone, I could swear for a moment that I felt a presence behind me. When I turned my back I only heard a whoosh sound from behind me and then Harry was killed. I think whatever killed my friend was the Yellow Flash from the comics!"


    .


    .


    "What an idiot. How can a fictional character kill his friend?" Jason scoffed as he walked into the private hotel room, tiredly slumping on one of the sofas.


    Today''s trip had been one hell of a ride!


    "You shouldn''t blame him. After all he doesn''t know what we know" Aletta brought out a laptop from a red backpack.


    Sitting on her bed, her fingers began furiously dancing around the keyboard.


    "Are those medical records?" Stephen took a peek at the computer screen from behind Aletta.


    "Yeah. I hacked into this Town''s hospital online database. Their security system is really lax" Aletta shrugged, her eyes still fixed on the computer screen.


    "You are a hacker? how come I never knew?!" Jason jumped out of the sofa as he rushed over.


    "Cause I didn''t write that skill set on my face dumbass"


    "Ah! I get it now!" she suddenly exclaimed as she punched her bed out of excitement.


    "Here, the first victim of the killing was a man named Solomon Jensen.. and guess what, his wife died of premature labor on October twenty eighth last three years ago.. and guess what, the first victim died last week Monday "


    "Last week Monday was October twenty eighth " Jason connected the dot.


    "The second victim was a surgeon who lost his son during an operation he was in charge of , on October twenty nine last three years ago.. you boys can guess the rest already "


    "So there''s a connection here. All the victims lost a family member three years ago and they happen to be dying on the day the deceased family member died?" Jason wriggled his brows with a clueless expression.


    He was still far from understanding what Aletta was driving at.


    "I am guessing they also received a phone call like Chris because they were all found dead before the tombstone of their deceased loved one.. with their chest ripped out and a half eaten heart besides their corpse " Aletta added.


    "Alright, the same Modus Operandi. However how are we going to find our mystery killer?" Jason finally got tired of guessing Aletta''s thought process.


    "We already know. This M.O. There''s only one monster who sticks by it " Stephen suddenly chimed in.

 Chapter 11 — Punishing Jason

    "A Cro..Crocotta?" Jason intently stared at the image of a strange beast on a large old looking tome that Aletta had taken out from her red backpack. The beast had the body of a muscular deer with golden stripes, a neck covered with silver colored lion like mane. Its face resembled that of a wolf, with terrifying looking fangs protruding out from its mouth. However unlike regular wolves, there was a purple colored horn protruding out from the middle of its forehead like a pony. As if that was not enough, it possessed four pair of golden colored hooves and a bunny like tail.


    Jason''s lips twitched when he saw the strange appearance of the beast named the Crocotta.


    "What kind of sick scientist did this crazy cross breeding?"


    "You mean mother nature right?" Stephen smirked when he heard his words.


    "Huh?"


    "The Crocotta is part of a race of beings known as the Yokais. Nobody knows where they came from except from the fact that they have been existence since the dawn of time. We Mystique Hunters like to call them freaks of nature.." Stephen explained.


    "Yokais huh.." Jason muttered.


    "Are Vampires Yokais as we''ll?" he suddenly asked.


    "Yup.. it''s kind of a broad term actually. Wendigoa, Lycans, Sirens, they are all classified as Yokais.."


    "So how do we find this Crocotta?" Jason tapped the beast image on the old looking tome.


    "More like how do we kill it. The Crocottas are a very powerful breed of Yokais. They possess immense speed, strength and special abilities locked in those pony horns. If we charge in carelessly we are going to lose our lives before we even know what happens " Marie shook her head.


    "Plus, not only can they mimic voices, they can also take on human appearances and blend themselves. Finding this Yokai isn''t the problem. The problem is dealing with it so it doesn''t hurt people against " Aletta added with a grim expression.


    "Don''t worry. If we find the Crocotta I am confident I will be able to kill it " Jason patted his chest. He was confident in the ability of the Klypt Daggers.


    Unfortunately, the two Siblings were not aware of his hidden trump cards, causing them to give him skeptic looks.


    "J.C this isn''t a joke. Perhaps you might''ve killed that level two Malevolent by fluke but luck isn''t actually our finest suite in our line of work. I think you need to sit this one out " Stephen warned.


    "Like I am going.." before Jason could finish his sentence, Stephen landed a sudden punch on his face, easily knocking him unconscious.


    "I''m really sorry Jason, but this is for your protection" Aletta sighed apologetically as she brought out a pair of police handcuffs from her red backpack. After shackling Jason to the bed, the siblings left, locking the door behind them. After who knew how long, a groan escaped Jason''s lips as he slowly regained consciousness.


    "Those bastards!" he cussed when he noticed the cuffs around his wrist.


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    Recalling how his martial arts mentor had once taught him how to break free from cuffs, he felt goosebumps travel all over his body.


    "There''s no way in hell I am going to dislocate my fingers!" he hastily dispersed that line of thought.


    "Hey Ghost Girl who is inside me... It''s time to work your magic now" he called out with an eye roll.


    "Ghost Girl inside you? you do know I have a name right? Oh wait! you''ve never bothered asking me about that because you don''t care! " a sarcastic voice rang out as a teenage girl with twin pigtails clad in snow white denim jackets and shorts underneath a lace leggings appeared before Jason, with her hands folded on her chest.


    "Like you said, I don''t care. So get these cuffs off me so I can go kill that Crocotta before those two beat me to it" Jason commanded.


    "No"


    "What did you say?!" Jason''s brows shot up in fury.


    "If you don''t help me I won''t be able to kill that Crocottta. If I don''t kill it, hehehe.. no juicy mystique coins for you!" Jason smirked.


    "I know" the Ghost Girl smiled.


    "Then release these cuffs from me damnit!" Jason cried with impatience.


    "No. I hate your bossy tone. Although you might''ve been a rich spoilt brat before, you''ve lost your privileges. Right now you are just a chained barking dog so if you need my help, you have to ask calmly " the Ghost Girl smirked.


    "You!!!!" Jason''s eyes almost exploded with fury.


    However he had no words to refute. It was true that after that demon annihilated his home, he lost his old life. Hell! The only thing he owned was the T-shirt, shorts and sneakers he was currently wearing. Taking a deep breath, his lips twitched as he muttered with much difficulty.


    "Please?"


    "Eh? what did you say? damnit after turning into a ghost my hearing almost became impaired so I didn''t catch what you just said?" the ghost girl tilted her right ear at Jason''s face.


    "I said please!!" green veins was already lining all around Jason''s neck.


    This was the first time somebody had humiliated him and he had no choice but to sit down and swallow it.


    "I think I heard you say please.. what for?" the Ghost girl grinned.


    "Please can you free.. me.. from my shackles?" Jason''s heart and eyes were already on the verge of exploding. He knew the other party was intentionally messing with him however he had no choice but to play along.


    "Now that''s better. See? you spoke like a sensible person and you didn''t die " the ghost girl clapped.


    Seeing the victorious smirk on her face almost made Jason vomit blood. If only his father was still alive.. he would''ve had his bodyguards teach her a really good lesson!


    "You do know I am a ghost right? even if dear daddy was alive there''s nothing he would be able to do" she taunted.


    Splurt! Jason''s eyes bulged as he vomited a mouthful of blood. He could no longer contain the rage within him. The other party was just too hateful!


    "Alright, I will stop teasing you now. It wouldn''t be pleasant to have your ghost haunting me when you die" the Ghost Girl giggled as she suddenly transformed into Silver smoke that shot into Jason''s eyes.


    "Hey! what the H--" before Jason could finish his sentence, he suddenly noticed that a strange party seemed to be sharing the same space with his consciousness.


    "Don''t resist if you really want my help" he heard the voice of the ghost girl.


    Craaack! After relaxing his nerves, Jason quickly realized that the cuffs around his wrist were slowly compressing like they were being melted within in a furnace. Although the process was awfully slow, the cuffs finally loosened around his wrist.


    "Ahahaha" silver smoke shot out from Jason''s eyes, transforming into the form of the Ghost Girl as she knelt on the floor, panting heavily.


    "Are you alright?" Jason noticed that her figure was beginning to flicker like it was on the verge of disappearing.


    "How nice of you.. I thought you were going to turn on me after I help you out of your cuffs" the Ghost Girl sounded surprised.


    "Hmpfh. Although I want to do that, I have my pride. Although you might be annoying, I know you are going to make a useful asset so I will tolerate this little partnership of ours. Half"


    "Half what?" the Ghost Girl managed to stabilize her breathing.


    "Half of any Mystique Coin I earn. Although they are useful to you, they are also useful to me" Jason explained.


    "That''s fine.." the Ghost Girl slowly nodded.


    "Since we are Partners officially, it''s only right that I know your name " Jason''s lips twitched.


    "Don''t misread me trying to start a friendship. This is strictly business, got that?!" he hurriedly added.


    "Whatever you say Princesse Jay. My name is Sofia.. partner "

 Chapter 12 — Hunting The Crocotta

    ¡ª[TITLE CARD: A Copule Hours Ago]


    .


    "Did you really have to knock him unconscious?" Aletta mused to her brother as they slowly exited the hotel building.


    "You saw how adamant Jason was back there and you know that right from a small age he has always gotten what he wanted. Did you seriously expect me to try talking reason with someone like that?" Stephen scoffed.


    "If I didn''t know any better I''ll say you still haven''t gotten over that silly crush. As much as I don''t like being a pessimist, Jason isn''t worthy of your affections. He is a narcissistic bastard who won''t mind using you to achieve his aims " Stephen spat coldly.


    "Look at who is talking? who is it that always winces at the mere mention of Jason becoming a Mystique Hunter huh? no matter how many times you badmouth him, you cannot stop caring about his well-being. You don''t want him to go down this wretched path we took " Aletta smiled.


    "You think of him as a little brother.. don''t you?"


    "Shut up " Stephen rolled his eyes.


    "If we have time for gossip, why don''t we channel it into something more useful? say how to identity this Crocottta of ours? according to its M.O somebody is going to die tonight but if we don''t nab it in time "


    "Yokais are crafty bastards. Unlike we regulars, they can freely change their appearances. Who knows if they possess four different identities in Sallyville?"


    Aletta paused to let her question sink in before she continued.


    "In this town we are known as Investigative reporters.. although this gives us the free pass to snoop around and ask bizzare questions, if we overdo it we might expose our true identities and intentions. Crocottas are cowards. Once they catch wind of the presence of Mystique Hunters, they won''t mind laying low for years. We can''t afford to stay in this small town for long.. after all they are many more souls who needs saving from the jaws of the terrifying monsters that lurks in the shadows"


    "So, what is your plan? you''ve always been the one with the brains in the family" Stephen grunted.


    Although he could argue with his sister almost over everything, her genius intellect was something that he couldn''t argue over.


    "I am going to need a cafe computer" Aletta replied, causing Stephen to wriggle his brows in confusion.


    "What happened to yours? don''t tell me you''ve destroyed it after running into a violent firewall virus again?"


    "Far from it and that happened just once, I have learnt my lesson and erected effective counter measures for such kind of situations again" Aletta rolled her eyes before clicking her tongue.


    "I am to utilize a public domain for what I am about to do. Although I am a little bit confident I won''t be traced if I Use mine, it doesn''t hurt to be safe"


    The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    After asking around a couple locals, both siblings located the only Computer Cafe in Sallyville. Staring at the cafes premises littered with tenacious weeds , Stephen''s brows twitched.


    Opening the entrance door, both siblings quickly took a step back, just in time to avoid a wave of dust from splattering on their heads. Alerted by their entrance, the shop keeper glanced towards their direction from behind a counter..


    The Shop Keeper was actually a frail looking old man with a bald scalp, clad in well ironed black oxford suit. His neat appearance was a sharp contrast to the unhygienic environment of the Computer Cafe.


    "How may I help you young ones?" the old man sounded both gladdened and shocked.


    It had been a long time since he saw customers walk through that door.


    "We want to use your computers for some time.. that is if they still work of course" Stephen coughed out the last part.


    From what he could see from the seven grey cloth covered computers in the cafe, it had been a really long time since they had been handled by human hands. Their grey cloth coverings had already turn white like snow from the thick layer of dust coated around them.


    "My computers are strong.. even if nobody gives them that credit" the Old Cafe Keeper sighed.


    "I remember those times when people would kill just to get past the line. Now, this shop is as desolate as a graveyard and these town folks enjoy the internet from the comfort of their homes.. it is really sad "


    "Well.. technology advancement isn''t such a bad thing" Stephen shrugged.


    Now, the only cafes worth looking at were gaming cafes and arcades. As for Internet cafes, they were stuffs of old legends. It was bizzare while this particular Internet cafe hadn''t even closed up shop.


    Removing the covering from one of the computers, Aletta coughed when she mistakenly inhaled some amount of dust. However to her surprise, the computer went on when she switched the power button.


    "So, what are you looking for?" Stephen asked, leaning behind her.


    "All the deaths were not connected to the same hospital in this town.. hell, some of them were transferred from hospitals outside of Sallyville and buried here" Aletta whispered.


    "They were all locals then?" Stephen whispered back.


    "Indeed.. however this Crocotta isn''t primitive.. it kills its victims following an accurate set pattern.. except it has the ability of omnipresence, there''s no way it was able to accurately record the death date of the victims fallen relatives.. even if they died outside of Sallyville " Aletta''s fingers furiously punched a series of codes that Stephen didn''t understand.


    "According to the lore and other Mystique Hunters notes, Crocottas aren''t Omnipresent.. however who said you needed to be a Yokai to be one, when the Internet is at your beck and call?" a grin slowly graced Stephen''s lips.


    "Looks like after spending enough time with me you are starting to catch up" Aletta gave her brother a thumbs up.


    "So, you mean this Crocotta is an internet predator like you? that''s a really big upgrade " Stephen whistled in amazement.


    "The world is changing.. Yokais are known to adapt the best.." Aletta nodded absent mindedly.. her fingers still furiously dancing around the keyboard.


    "I plan on running an algorithm that would calculate the number of casualties within and outside Sallyville. Then I will have it cross check to those who were transfered to Sallyville morgue before further narrowing it further down till we manage to locate the tonight''s unlucky soul "


    "You can do that?!"


    "Although it''s more difficult than it sounds, yep. However I am not a god so it is going to take some time. You can go readea book or something while I do my stuff " Aletta shoooed Stephen away.


    "Smartass " Stephen cussed inwardly..


    However it was true that watching those series of strange codes playing out on the computer screen was very frustrating.. especially since he didn''t understand what they meant.


    While the both siblings were unaware, their whole conversation even if it was done in whispers were heard by a particular someone as a pair of venomous eyes glared fixedly at them from the shadows, followed by an annoyed growl that sounded like the howl of a wounded wolf and the grunts of an annoyed horse.


    "Damn Hunters!"

 Chapter 13 — Exposing True Face

    "Hello, what are your orders please?" a female blonde waitress stopped before a particular table as she flashed its occupants one of her sweetest smiles.


    "Uhmm.. you must be Stephanie correct?" Stephen scanned his eyes around the restaurant before they fell on the waitress.


    "As you can see on my badge" the waitress lightly tapped the name badge on her chest.


    "Yeah. You are right. Would you mind sparing a few minutes of your time? we would like to discuss something with you" Aletta nodded with a smile, exposing her cute set of dimples.


    "We are record label scouts.. we happened to have come across your cover songs on YouTube.." Stephen hurriedly lied when he noticed the other party was about to decline.


    "R--Really?!" the waitress named Stephanie glanced at the watch around her wrist.


    "My shift ends in five minutes.." she informed them, the pace of her breathing suddenly accelerating.


    "Alright. Meet us outside then " Stephen nodded as he and Aletta stood up, exiting the restaurant.


    "Record label scouts? really?" Aletta punched her brother on the shoulder as soon as they left the restaurant.


    "What did you expect me to say? she was about to decline" Stephen justified.


    "What if she never had a cover song uploaded on YouTube then?" Aletta sneered.


    "I took a guess.. I mean she''s pretty.. someone with that kind of looks won''t be content with just being a  restaurant waitress" Stephen grinned coyly.


    A couple minutes later, Stephanie the waitress joined the siblings. This time she got rid of her official waitress apron and had a nervous expression on her face.


    "I really don''t know what to say. When I released those covers on YouTube, I never expected them to catch the eyes of any record label.. after all the recording quality was very low since I merely recorded it on my phone In-built voice recorder" Stephanie wriggled her fingers nervously.


    "Uh.." Stephen''s corner lips twitched. Fortunately, Aletta had his back.


    "Our record label is out for individuals with  pure and raw talent.. and we feel that you are one of such individuals.. with an angelic voice like yours and our label''s strategic PR, you are going to be dominating the billboard charts in  no time "


    "You really think so?" Stephanie broke into a wide  ambitious grin as her eyes flashed with excitement.


    "However before that, we need to ask you some personal questions.. say for example your date of birth, your heritage and the likes.. these information is going to be crucial in setting up your Wikipedia page" Aletta brought out her palmphet.


    "Alright. Ask away!"


    .


    .


    ¡ª[TITLE CARD ; NOW]


    .


    .


    "Can you track down the Crocottta?" Jtas mentally asked Sofia as he exited the hotel building.


    Looking towards the sky, he noticed the sun was about to set.


    "You want me to sniff out your prey? sorry try a Werewolf" Sofia scoffed.


    "Although I am a Ghost, Yokais are different from us" she added.


    "That means you can see other ghosts right?" Jason caught on the implied meaning in her words.


    "Affirmative "


    "When you took control of my body.. if it wasn''t possession, what was it?" Jason asked after hesitating a bit.


    "Union.. it''s a state were both of our souls becomes molded as one.. it''s like our souls become entwined. In that state you can use all my abilities. However that form consumes a hell lot of my energy since you don''t have even the slightest rudimentary control over it, causing an excessive amount of my ecto to leak out.. I''ll say we don''t ever use that form until you learn proper control" Sofia replied.


    "Hmm.. I wasn''t counting on it in the first place " Jason wriggled his nose as he put on the Sprite Pupils.


    His vision instantly changed. However he didn''t receive that notification he was hoping for.


    Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. "Am I took far from it?" he frowned while removing the Sprite Pupils.


    "However if you are looking for a Crocotta, I''ll think I can give you a few clues.. they are proficient in patience, capable of lurking in the shadows as they await their preys to walk right towards their maws"


    Realization suddenly dawned on Jason.


    "The Cemetery!"


    .


    .


    Rustle... Rustle. Rustle.


    A silhouette made their way through several tombstones before they finally arrived at a particular one. Stephen scanned his eyes around.


    "The Crocottta is yet to arrive" he spoke through the wireless Bluetooth communication bud.


    Whoosh!


    Just then, a violent breeze brushed past his face as a figure shoved him against the surface of the tombstone. Stephen who was about to struggle suddenly stiffened when he felt a cold but sharp object kissing the flesh of his throat, followed by a voice filled with the stench of rotten flesh.


    "Move an inch and you won''t be able to do so again"


    "You.. you are the old man from that abandoned internet cafe?!" Stephen''s brows shot up in astonishment as he recognized the voice of the other party from such close proximity.


    "Indeed. As soon as you and that girl walked into my shop, I knew who you were" the Crocottta sinisterly chuckled, not bothering to deny the allegations.


    "Why didn''t you kill me then?" Stephen bit his lower lips nervously as he felt a small amount of his blood slid down his throat.


    "Hmpfh. Old man Jones is the best alias that suits my taste perfectly. He''s the secluded type who hardly socializes.. I wasn''t ready to risk losing that identity"


    "I take it the original Old man Jones is dead?"


    The Crocottta snorted.


    "No. He''s alive.. in my stomach, hahahaha"


    "You are disgusting" Stephen clicked his tongue.


    "You weren''t the first Mystique Hunter who has told me that.. and you won''t be the last either"


    "Heh. Too bad this is the end of the line for you" Stephen strangely smirked as he suddenly screamed at the top of his lungs.


    "Now!"


    " Singi Areahps  Xelpud Esod!" a chant suddenly rang from behind the Crocottta, followed by a brilliant glow as two flying fireballs shot towards him.


    "Bastard! you were intentionally stalling for your colleague!" sensing the danger from the fireballs, the Crocottta slammed its feet on the ground, exploding in a burst of unnatural speed as it evaded the trajectory of the fireballs.


    As for Stephen, his forehead shot out a brilliant light which transformed into a glowing axe that landed on his grip. Swinging it towards the fireball at the lead, he borrowed the collision force to flip through the air, just in time for the second fireball to blast the tombstone into ashes, while setting the cemetery field grass ablaze.


    The once slightly dark atmosphere instantly became bright like it was at  the peak of noon, exposing the appearance of the Crocotta to be the old Shop Keeper the siblings encountered at the Internet Cafe earlier in the day.


    "You!!!" the Crocottta glared at Aletta who was standing in the distance, a glowing tome floating behind her as she held up a snow white rosary with her left hand while her right hand weaved through a series of finger seals.


    "Like I am going to let you!" Crocotta  recognized her intentions, causing it to charge  towards her, his claws aimed at her chest. Although there was a large distance between the two of them, the Crocotta covered it within a few seconds. This was a speed that the ordinary human legs couldn''t hope to achieve.


    "You nosy Mystique Hunters.. always making feeding difficult for my kind!" Aletta was still in the midst of weaving through her hand seals when the Crocottta arrived in front of her, his claws seven inches away from stabbing right through her heart.

 Chapter 14 — Everyone Has Secrets

    Bang!


    The claws of the Crocottta came to a halt as it crashed against the flat surface of a glowing golden colored axe.


    "Scram!"


    A swift kick sent the Crocottta staggering back, just in time for Stephen to leap towards it, chopping his axe at his head in an attempt to decapitate it.


    "Nice try" the Crocotta regained its footing at the last minute. The muscles on his left arm flexed tightly as he blocked the descending axe with it while sending out a jab towards Stephen''s chin with his left arm.


    "Tch" stomping his right foot, Stephen flicked his wrist, loosening his grip on the axe as he initiated a well executed front flip, landing behind the Crocotta.


    Unstrapping a small dagger, he threw it towards the back of the Crocotta''s head. The daggers swiftly struck their mark, bringing about a pained howl.


    "I.. hate.. hunters!" the Crocottta snarled angrily as it jumped back, drawing enough distance between itself and Stephen, while his left hand snaked around his head, pulling off the two small daggers, eliciting another howl of agony.


    "Blessed daggers!" It snarled regretfully as it tossed the two daggers into the distance.


    "You are going to pay for that!" He lurched towards Stephen.


    The Young Mystique Hunting couldn''t react quickly to the sudden movement, causing the Crocotta to ruthlessly slash him on the right side of his face while his fangs moved towards Stephen''s throat.


    "Singi  Erecrac!"


    The Crocotta cussed regretfully as it abandoned Stephen, leaping towards the sides, only for a wave of searing hot flames to wash towards it, craftily condensing into the shape of a four pillared prison with barbs made out of searing hot flames.


    "Done " Aletta sighed in relief after seeing the flame prison successfully bound the Crocotta.


    "Let me go now!" the Crocotta snarled angrily, however it didn''t dare approach the flamy barbs of the flame prison.


    "Heh. Are you stupid or do you think I am stupid?" Aletta jeered.


    According to the lore, Crocottas had an innate fright when it came to fire. As such this flame prison Hex was their true trump card all  along!


    "Are you okay?" she rushed towards Stephen who was holding half of his face that was bleeding profusely.


    The Crocottta didn''t hold back one bit in its previous claw slash.


    "I would live" Stephen picked up his glowing axe which was sprawled carelessly on the ground.


    "We have to kill this monster quick.  Your ring of flames isn''t exactly insconspicious" he added as he nudged towards the grass in the cemetery ground that were ablaze.


    Nodding, Aletta approached the Crocottta trapped within the flame prison.


    "Are there others like you in this town?" she questioned him.


    "Heh.." the Crocotta sneered sinisterly as it suddenly transformed into a little girl.


    "My mummy is going to make you pay" it spoke in a childish tone.


    " Singi Erecrac Mullegalf"


    Following the chant, a portion of the flame prison transformed into a flamy whip that ruthlessly whipped the neck of the Crocotta disguised as a little girl.


    "Argh!!" the Crocotta cried in agony as it was forced to revert back to its original form.


    "Go to hell b*ch!!" it snarled hatefully at Aletta.


    "What do you think?" seeing the other party refusing to talk, Aletta turned towards her brother.


    "Kill it. Although Crocottas move in Herds, they are cowardly. Once they learn of his death, his companions are going to flee out from this town" Stephen replied icily.


    "Alright" the floating Hex Tome behind Aletta glowed brilliantly as her fingers began to weave through a series of hand seals.


    "Singi Erecrac Xserpmoc--"


    Aletta was suddenly interrupted when an intense cold air blew past them. Stephen suddenly sensed the ecto reactor inside his pocket start glowing brilliantly.


    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author. "A Malevolent!" he cried out a warning.


    Whoosh!


    James who was currently invisible thanks to the *Union* form, completely ignored the flamy prison as he arrived before the Crocotta.


    "Eh?" the Crocottta seemed to have sensed his presence however before he  could react, Jason whipped out one of the Klypt Daggers from the system in built inventory, stabbing it right through his head.


    Bang!


    A brilliant light exploded from within the body of the Crocottta, turning him into nothing but ashes. Following the death of the Crocottta, Jason received a notification from the system.


    ¡ª[Congratulations! Host has Completed System Main Mission; Defeat the Yokai]


    ¡ª[Host has received +150 Mystique Coins]


    .


    .


    Meanwhile the siblings watched in disbelief as the Crocottta suddenly explode into ashes.


    "Was that your doing?" Stephen turned towards his sister, his brows raised..


    "No. Didn''t you sense the presence of a Malevolent? maybe it was it?"


    Stephen swiftly reached into his pocket. However seeing the ecto reactor completely blank, his expression was quite unreadable.


    "It''s no longer glowing?"


    "That means the Malevolent is gone? looks like a Malevolent stole our kill" Aletta sighed as she waved her hand, dispelling the Hex Tome. Naturally the flame prison instantly crumbled into bits of ash.


    "You are saying a Malevolent helped us kill a Yokai? since when were Malevolents besties with Mystique Hunters?" Stephen felt there was something at play. However he just couldn''t wrap his fingers about what it was.


    "Maybe the Malevolent is the guardian spirit of this town or it had a score to settle with the Crocotta.. either way the Yokai of dead now and our business in Sallyville is done so just let it go"


    Stephen suddenly gave his sister a deep look. Although Stephen wasn''t confident in his in intelligence, he was confident in his sharp intuition that had been heightened after battling with countless Yokais and Malevolents over the years. And his sharp intuition now was telling him that his sister knew something relating to the bizzare death of the Crocotta.


    However she was trying to intentionally hide things from him.


    .


    .


    "How was your hunt yesterday without me?" Jason grinned as he and the two siblings walked out from the hotel after they just finished checking out.


    "Even if you were with us, you would''ve ended up getting hurt as well" Stephen softly brushed the claw mark on the left side of his face that had yet to heal.


    "Trust me J.C and take this from a guy in this biz for quite some time now.. no Mystique Hunter is completely invincible. The slightest carelessness and you would lose your life. This life isn''t something you want to be tangled with " after dropping these solemn words, Stephen opened the driver door of their vehicle parked at the parking lot of the Hotel.


    "Heh " Jason clicked his tongue as he wiped off the small drop of early morning dew that had just fallen atop his nose.


    "He''s wrong yunno? I think you are more than capable of taking care of yourself " Aletta whispered to Jason as they made their way towards the car.


    "So you are throwing your support now?" Jason lips curled up into a half assed smile.


    "Well.. I''ve become more convinced after witnessing you kill that Crocottta" Aletta flashed him a smile as a sharp twinkle flashed past her eyes.


    "What are you saying? didn''t you and your brother chain me up while you went to hunt the Crocottta yourselves?" Jason clicked his tongue as he hastened his footsteps, leaving Aletta behind.


    "As expected.. the apple doesn''t fall far from the tree" Aletta grinned inwardly as she silently watched Jason board the car.


    What the trio didn''t know was that a pair of venomous eyes was silently watching them from behind one of the many stationary vehicles in the hotel parking lot.