Chapter 061: The Stern Father and the Gentle Mother.
As he walked away, the sound of shattered porcelain and hushed conversations echoed behind him. Without looking back, Chi Shen strode out of the restaurant.
Back inside, Xu Xiuyin, in a fit of anger, threw her glass onto the table, smashing the plate and splattering the exquisitely presented dishes everywhere.
A nearby waiter initially wanted to intervene, but seeing the state of things, he held his tongue. After a few moments, seeing Xu Xiuyin regaining composure, he summoned help over the intercom to clean up the mess.
After taking a few moments to calm herself, Xu Xiuyin collected her bag and started to leave the restaurant.
The waiter, noticing her exit, quickly approached her, "Ma'am, you haven't settled the bill yet."
"Hold on!" A voice suddenly halted the waiter in his tracks.
As the waiter turned, he found it was his boss, who appeared to have rushed over hastily, even forgetting to properly button his shirt. Seeing Xu Xiuyin walk away without turning back, the boss let out a sigh of relief, whispering to the waiter, "She's from the Bai family. Don't provoke her."
With the word from the boss, the waiter dared not pursue further. Still perplexed, he responded, "Alright, but the bill..."
The boss interjected, "Put it on my tab. Just clean up."
With lingering confusion, the waiter began cleaning up the table, hearing his boss sigh as he turned away.
An elder staff member came over to help with the clean-up, whispering to the younger waiter, "When our restaurant first opened, there was an incident. The Bai family helped us out."
The waiter curiously inquired, "Was it issues with obtaining the business license or health permits?"
"Neither," the senior colleague replied mysteriously, glancing around before leaning in and murmuring, "The place was haunted."
Clearly spooked, the waiter was so startled that he didn't even notice the porcelain shard that scratched his hand. He whispered back, "Really?"
"It's true. It was terrifying back then, but the Bai family stepped in to help," the senior whispered.
"So the owner is waiving the bill out of gratitude to the Bai family?"
The elder softly replied, "Initially, the owner paid the Bai family for their assistance. It was a clear transaction. However, as time went on, they started to take more liberties, like not paying. The owner didn't dare say anything and had to accept it."
The server, puzzled, simply nodded in agreement.
At the reception desk, with a nudge from an employee, the owner properly fastened his misbuttoned shirt and began reviewing the month's bills.
Over a decade ago, he'd returned from abroad, full of enthusiasm to open a premium Chinese restaurant to showcase the pinnacle of Chinese cuisine. He'd even gone to great lengths to hire a renowned chef from another city. Everything was in place until the grand opening when someone spotted a ghost in the restroom, with the tap running blood instead of water. The initial patrons were so terrified that even the chef resigned and fled. He nearly had to shut down right then and there.
Recollecting that challenging period, the owner felt a weight on his chest. But he had made it through. He sold the house his parents left him, sought the Bai family's spiritual intervention, persuaded the chef to return, relaunched the marketing, and held promotional events to finally turn things around.
Lost in his memories, he sighed deeply.
After leaving the upscale restaurant, Chi Shen entered the subway station and took the train home.
Though he had learned of Ji Xing Chen's past connection with the Bai family during lunch, he still felt he'd wasted his noon. He already knew of the situation from the fragmented memories of the ghost girl, which had shown a face resembling Ji Xing Chen's, suggesting a link with the old mansion. The new information wasn't all that different.
Couldn't he have just spent that time at home choosing lounge chairs with Ji Xing Chen?
He resolved not to heed the Bai family's summons in the future.
There were no losses, but it did dampen his spirits.
Upon returning to Tongfu Garden, Chi Shen first grabbed a quick bite from a street vendor before heading upstairs to check on the Halloween preparations.
Ji Xing Chen hadn't joined him earlier because he was the chief coordinator for the Halloween event, briefing everyone on precautions for the evening.
Bai Wan, as a ghost experiencing her first real outing, might feel out of place, so Ji Xing Chen needed to acquaint her with the basics of modern society.
As for Gui Lian, perhaps due to his dream-entering abilities, although he couldn't recall his own appearance, he oddly understood modern times. Ji Xing Chen originally wanted Gui Lian to accompany Bai Wan as a kind of decoration on her shoulder, ready to guide her in case of unexpected situations. But Gui Lian strongly refused, hinting he'd jump off a building if pushed. Ji Xing Chen had no choice but to relent.
Meanwhile, the red-dressed ghost looked down on Gui Lian's fears and made a grotesque face at him, sticking her tongue out till it almost touched the floor.
The cabinet ghost, when politely approached by Ji Xing Chen, responded with a resounding — "Bang!"
The cabinet door was shut tight, not allowing even a sliver of light to penetrate.
The red-dressed ghost continued to frolic nearby, exclaiming, "He! Can't! He's too scared to go out... He has social anxiety!"
Next, Ji Xingchen inquired with the other residents in the house. The response he got was... the woman in the kitchen shoved herself deeper into the cupboard. The teenager in the bathroom almost merged with the shadow behind the toilet. The shadow on the living room chandelier and the voice under the master bedroom bed, which Chi Shen had summoned earlier, hadn't shown up at all.
At this point, Ji Xingchen had concluded the night's outing count to be Chi Shen, Bai Wan, and Ghostface.
The Red-Cloaked Ghost kept hopping around, "What about me? Why don't you ask me? Come on, ask if I want to go out!"
Ji Xingchen adjusted his glasses and coldly stated, "You're not fit to go out."
Hearing this, the Red-Cloaked Ghost was outraged, "I want to go out!"
Bai Wan intervened, "She can come with me."
Ji Xingchen firmly refused, "No, she's unpredictable."
Just as Chi Shen returned from outside, he was greeted by the chaotic scene of the Red-Cloaked Ghost circling Ji Xingchen, fervently expressing her desire to go out, while Bai Wan sat properly on the sofa, watching a Halloween educational video on TV.
Upon seeing Chi Shen, the Red-Cloaked Ghost lunged at him, yelling, "Let's go!"
Chi Shen held her off with one hand, lifting her up, "You want to go out too?"
Ji Xingchen remained impassive, "It's a risk to let her out. She can't control herself."
"You really want to go out?" Chi Shen looked at the tearful Red-Cloaked Ghost, shaking her head slightly.
Even being held up, she nodded vigorously, "Yes! I've never been out!"
"Alright, but you have to promise me one thing: no matter what happens, you won't move," Chi Shen declared.
Ji Xingchen frowned, his expression suggesting he disapproved of Chi Shen's indulgence. Bai Wan had to stifle a chuckle upon noticing.
The Red-Cloaked Ghost eagerly agreed, "Okay!"
Ji Xingchen refrained from further comments, and informed Chi Shen of the evening's plan: They would walk from Tongfu Garden to Central Plaza to partake in the Halloween eve celebrations and then walk back. Although the walk would take about half an hour, they'd be amidst the bustling streets of the city, filled with Halloween festivities and costumed participants.
Chi Shen found the arrangement perfect, trusting Ji Xingchen's meticulous planning.
Ji Xingchen had also thought of costumes. Bai Wan didn't need any changes. Her potent aura allowed her to materialize, fitting the role of a ghost bride in a red wedding dress. To ensure safety and avoid frightening others too much, Ji Xingchen suggested she leave behind her tablet with bloody handprints, replacing it with an unlit red candle, to which Bai Wan gladly agreed.
However, there was a challenge. Bai Wan's aura was overpowering. If she appeared on the streets, everyone would feel the cold, and those nearby might even fall sick. This wasn't something she could control. For Chi Shen, the solution was simple: he gave her the faceless mirror.
Ji Xingchen planned to attach a ghastly face onto Chi Shen's clothes, capable of morphing its expressions to frighten people, lest others mistake it for a mere logo, thereby missing out on the Halloween vibe.
After hearing Ji Xingchen's plan, Chi Shen inquired, "And what about you?"
Ji Xingchen replied, "I'm not that interested. I'll just accompany you out."
Chi Shen nodded understandingly, just as not everyone is fond of celebrating the Lunar New Year, it's normal for some ghosts not to fancy Halloween.
Once everything was arranged, as the sun set, Chi Shen first warmed up the dinner he had brought. He ate it under the eager eyes of everyone present. Afterwards, he hoisted the red-dressed ghost onto his shoulder, Ji Xingchen merged into his shadow, and Bai Wan, holding a candle, accompanied him outside.
On Halloween's eve, they arrived!
Before they even left Tongfu Court, Chi Shen spotted groups of residents in makeup, ready for Halloween. Although there were many young residents he didn't recognize, seeing them all dressed up sparked friendly greetings as they all left together.
Several street-side shops had lit up plastic pumpkin lanterns. Convenience stores advertised new pumpkin pastries, dessert shops rolled out Halloween-themed treats, and children with baskets adorned with bat wings sought candies. Those without candies on hand would cheerfully buy some from the nearby convenience store.
If someone didn't offer candies, the most a child would do is pull a face and move on. After all, Halloween isn't a traditional local festival, and most people were just soaking in the festive atmosphere without strictly following its original customs.
Soon, two children in wizard cloaks approached Chi Shen, looking up and chanting in a childish tone, "Trick or treat!"
Forewarned by Ji Xingchen, Chi Shen was well-prepared. His pockets bulged with candies. Handing a handful to one child, he listened to the joyous exclamation, "Thanks, mister!"
The other child, however, stared intently at Bai Wan, eyes filled with curiosity.
Bai Wan also seemed to be subtly observing him.
Chi Shen leaned down and said, "Little friend, she's with me. Since I've given you candy, that should be enough, right?"
The child kept his gaze on Bai Wan, making her visibly uneasy. The red candle in her hand trembled slightly, casting a tense atmosphere.
"Let's go find that pretty lady! She looks beautiful!" the other child exclaimed, tugging at his companion.
As the child was being dragged away, he shouted, "This lady is the prettiest! I want to wear clothes like hers!"
Chi Shen chuckled, thinking that children often perceive what adults cannot. He wondered if the child had noticed something, but it turned out he simply admired Bai Wan's attire.
Bai Wan seemed relieved and replied cheerfully, "When you grow up, you can wear one like that."
The children waved goodbye, "See you, miss!"
Bai Wan hesitated for a moment and then extended her hand, waving it slowly as Ji Xingchen had taught her. "Goodbye."
The two children laughed as they scampered away, and Chi Shen continued walking forward with Bai Wan by his side.
The red-robed female ghost on Chi Shen's shoulder tried to raise her head as if wanting to speak, but he held her down, causing her to remain silent and look rather dejected.
They hadn't walked far before a man, adorned with a grim reaper's face paint, a long black cloak, and a scythe, stopped them. Bai Wan seemed visibly anxious. The man politely asked, "May I take a picture with you? That bridal gown is exquisite!"
Bai Wan turned to Chi Shen, looking unsure. He nodded with a smile, "Just stand still, and that'll be fine."
The man dressed as the grim reaper quickly beckoned his friend over to take the photo. After glancing at the picture, he noticed that the image of the bride next to him was somewhat blurred. However, he felt that the eerie effect suited Halloween perfectly. Not wanting to impose on Bai Wan for another shot, he decided against retaking the photo. He even contemplated asking for her contact information but was declined by Chi Shen. Apologetically, he left with his friend, laughing.
Before they could reach Central Street, countless people had already asked to take pictures with them. Compared to Chi Shen, Bai Wan's attire was a more popular choice. The red-robed ghost on Chi Shen's shoulder resembled a carelessly placed mop, making Bai Wan, in her detailed bridal dress, the star attraction of the evening.
Initially, Bai Wan seemed overwhelmed, being surrounded by so many strangers wanting to converse with her. Chi Shen would give her reassuring glances, and with time, she began to warm up to the festive environment, even appearing to enjoy the compliments.
Soon, Bai Wan became the center of a photography circle, while Chi Shen stood in the shadowy outskirts. As he waited for the photo sessions to conclude, two young girls approached him, their eyes lighting up, asking if they could take a picture with him.
Chi Shen agreed. After taking the photo, one of the girls curiously pointed to the 'mop' on his shoulder and asked, "What's that?"
Lifting the red-robed female ghost for display, Chi Shen explained, "I intended to dress as someone haunted by a malevolent spirit, but it seems I might have missed the mark."
The terrifying visage of the ghost startled the girls. The sight was so bone-chilling that they instinctively stepped back, thanking Chi Shen before making a hasty retreat.
Chi Shen mused to himself, "Am I really that off-putting?"
From within the shadows, Ji Xingchen chided, "You scared them."
"Well, they were the ones who asked first..."
While conversing, Chi Shen's gaze scanned the crowd, landing on a person with zombie makeup, who was following two girls. From this 'zombie,' a faint stench of decay and a dark aura emanated.
Bai Wan also turned her attention to the same individual.
Ji Xingchen stated, "You enjoy the night; I'll handle this."
Chi Shen replied, "It's Halloween after all; let's do it together."
The two girls wandered to a secluded spot to touch up their makeup, intermittently discussing the individuals they had encountered. Suddenly, the man with the zombie makeup entered their vicinity. One of the girls excitedly exclaimed, "His makeup looks incredibly realistic! Hey, can I take a photo with you?"
The 'zombie' stiffly turned to face them.
The girl exclaimed, "My friend, you're so dedicated! That turn of the head was pure artistry!"
The zombie stiffly turned and began walking towards them, his movements rigid and unnatural. The girl continued, "How did you create those wounds on your body? Is it special effects makeup? Aren't you cold dressed like that?"
A faint, repugnant odor reached them, and her friend finally sensed something amiss. She tugged her away, saying, "Let's leave; it's too secluded here. Not safe."
"But first, I want to take a photo with this zombie friend..."
She turned, and the zombie was almost nose-to-nose with her. Now, she could confirm the source of the foul stench—it emanated from this 'actor' portraying a zombie. Up close, the odor was overwhelmingly putrid.
A piercing scream sliced through the night, but amidst the festivities, no one took notice.
The girl gazed in terror as the zombie approached. Her friend frantically hit the zombie with her bag, to no avail. The trapped girl felt an icy chill enveloping her. Was she going to die tonight?
"So cold," her friend muttered, trembling. "Why is it so cold?"
"Let her go," came a melodic voice, ethereal and ghostly. The ghost bride they had posed with earlier stood nearby, a red candle in her hand, its flame a ghostly blue.
The zombie froze, as if confronted with something terrifying. He dropped the girl and fled.
Meanwhile, Chi Shen was outside, on the phone, "Yes, Central Street, next to No. 45, in the alley. You handle the aftermath."
On the other end, Xu Jiayuan's voice was filled with exasperation, "Another incident?!"
Chi Shen hung up swiftly and signaled to Bai Wan, "Let's go."
As Bai Wan turned to leave, the two girls grabbed her, one sobbing and repeatedly thanking her.
The other girl clung to her hand, pausing a moment as she felt the cold emanating from Bai Wan, "Miss, are you cold? Let me buy you some milk tea!"
Bai Wan looked a bit flustered. She quickly extinguished her candle, waving her hands to downplay the situation.
Chi Shen's gaze followed the fleeing ghostly zombie, sensing something peculiar about the direction it had taken.
*
Author's Note:
Please support my friend's novel!
Title: "The Aloof Underworld King Breaks the Seal Online."
Author: Lanyang Xingping
Synopsis: Originally titled "Walking into Science", this story is now known as "The Handsome Underworld King Debunks Feudal Superstitions Online".
Inside the eerie, ancient castle, Xun Min clung to Yu Tu's back, almost as if she was glued to him.
Yu Tu abruptly halted, casting a complex glance over his shoulder, "Did you hear any clicking sounds?"
Without opening her eyes, Xun Min dismissed her trembling legs, which felt like they were clashing against each other, "No, you're just hearing things."
Yu Tu: "..."
Amidst Xun Min's terrified screams, Yu Tu stepped forward and yanked off a ghastly mask, revealing a mechanical body beneath.
Xun Min: "...?"
Yu Tu gazed at Xun Min with a mixture of disappointment and exasperation, "How many times must I tell you? Ghosts don't exist in this world!"
Xun Min discreetly retrieved her frightened leg bones and obediently responded, "Right, right, right."
One day, to Xun Min's astonishment, she saw her boss's boss's boss bowing respectfully to Yu Tu, addressing him as "Your Highness, the Underworld King."
Xun Min: "..."
The story features a poor-looking, science-believing Emperor of the Underworld vs. an ultra-strong, easily scared Grim Reaper.
PS: The narrative contains significant creative liberties. The aforementioned Grim Reaper is a newly established role within the Eastern Underworld system. The Emperor of the Underworld is the sole ruler and the most powerful boss.
Chapter 061: The Stern Father and the Gentle Mother.
As he walked away, the sound of shattered porcelain and hushed conversations echoed behind him. Without looking back, Chi Shen strode out of the restaurant.
Back inside, Xu Xiuyin, in a fit of anger, threw her glass onto the table, smashing the plate and splattering the exquisitely presented dishes everywhere.
A nearby waiter initially wanted to intervene, but seeing the state of things, he held his tongue. After a few moments, seeing Xu Xiuyin regaining composure, he summoned help over the intercom to clean up the mess.
After taking a few moments to calm herself, Xu Xiuyin collected her bag and started to leave the restaurant.
The waiter, noticing her exit, quickly approached her, "Ma'am, you haven't settled the bill yet."
"Hold on!" A voice suddenly halted the waiter in his tracks.
As the waiter turned, he found it was his boss, who appeared to have rushed over hastily, even forgetting to properly button his shirt. Seeing Xu Xiuyin walk away without turning back, the boss let out a sigh of relief, whispering to the waiter, "She's from the Bai family. Don't provoke her."
With the word from the boss, the waiter dared not pursue further. Still perplexed, he responded, "Alright, but the bill..."
The boss interjected, "Put it on my tab. Just clean up."
With lingering confusion, the waiter began cleaning up the table, hearing his boss sigh as he turned away.
An elder staff member came over to help with the clean-up, whispering to the younger waiter, "When our restaurant first opened, there was an incident. The Bai family helped us out."
The waiter curiously inquired, "Was it issues with obtaining the business license or health permits?"
"Neither," the senior colleague replied mysteriously, glancing around before leaning in and murmuring, "The place was haunted."
Clearly spooked, the waiter was so startled that he didn't even notice the porcelain shard that scratched his hand. He whispered back, "Really?"
"It's true. It was terrifying back then, but the Bai family stepped in to help," the senior whispered.
"So the owner is waiving the bill out of gratitude to the Bai family?"
The elder softly replied, "Initially, the owner paid the Bai family for their assistance. It was a clear transaction. However, as time went on, they started to take more liberties, like not paying. The owner didn't dare say anything and had to accept it."
The server, puzzled, simply nodded in agreement.
At the reception desk, with a nudge from an employee, the owner properly fastened his misbuttoned shirt and began reviewing the month's bills.
Over a decade ago, he'd returned from abroad, full of enthusiasm to open a premium Chinese restaurant to showcase the pinnacle of Chinese cuisine. He'd even gone to great lengths to hire a renowned chef from another city. Everything was in place until the grand opening when someone spotted a ghost in the restroom, with the tap running blood instead of water. The initial patrons were so terrified that even the chef resigned and fled. He nearly had to shut down right then and there.
Recollecting that challenging period, the owner felt a weight on his chest. But he had made it through. He sold the house his parents left him, sought the Bai family's spiritual intervention, persuaded the chef to return, relaunched the marketing, and held promotional events to finally turn things around.
Lost in his memories, he sighed deeply.
After leaving the upscale restaurant, Chi Shen entered the subway station and took the train home.
Though he had learned of Ji Xing Chen's past connection with the Bai family during lunch, he still felt he'd wasted his noon. He already knew of the situation from the fragmented memories of the ghost girl, which had shown a face resembling Ji Xing Chen's, suggesting a link with the old mansion. The new information wasn't all that different.
Couldn't he have just spent that time at home choosing lounge chairs with Ji Xing Chen?
He resolved not to heed the Bai family's summons in the future.
There were no losses, but it did dampen his spirits.
Upon returning to Tongfu Garden, Chi Shen first grabbed a quick bite from a street vendor before heading upstairs to check on the Halloween preparations.
Ji Xing Chen hadn't joined him earlier because he was the chief coordinator for the Halloween event, briefing everyone on precautions for the evening.
Bai Wan, as a ghost experiencing her first real outing, might feel out of place, so Ji Xing Chen needed to acquaint her with the basics of modern society.
As for Gui Lian, perhaps due to his dream-entering abilities, although he couldn't recall his own appearance, he oddly understood modern times. Ji Xing Chen originally wanted Gui Lian to accompany Bai Wan as a kind of decoration on her shoulder, ready to guide her in case of unexpected situations. But Gui Lian strongly refused, hinting he'd jump off a building if pushed. Ji Xing Chen had no choice but to relent.
Meanwhile, the red-dressed ghost looked down on Gui Lian's fears and made a grotesque face at him, sticking her tongue out till it almost touched the floor.
The cabinet ghost, when politely approached by Ji Xing Chen, responded with a resounding — "Bang!"
The cabinet door was shut tight, not allowing even a sliver of light to penetrate.
The red-dressed ghost continued to frolic nearby, exclaiming, "He! Can't! He's too scared to go out... He has social anxiety!"
Next, Ji Xingchen inquired with the other residents in the house. The response he got was... the woman in the kitchen shoved herself deeper into the cupboard. The teenager in the bathroom almost merged with the shadow behind the toilet. The shadow on the living room chandelier and the voice under the master bedroom bed, which Chi Shen had summoned earlier, hadn't shown up at all.
At this point, Ji Xingchen had concluded the night's outing count to be Chi Shen, Bai Wan, and Ghostface.
The Red-Cloaked Ghost kept hopping around, "What about me? Why don't you ask me? Come on, ask if I want to go out!"
Ji Xingchen adjusted his glasses and coldly stated, "You're not fit to go out."
Hearing this, the Red-Cloaked Ghost was outraged, "I want to go out!"
Bai Wan intervened, "She can come with me."
Ji Xingchen firmly refused, "No, she's unpredictable."
Just as Chi Shen returned from outside, he was greeted by the chaotic scene of the Red-Cloaked Ghost circling Ji Xingchen, fervently expressing her desire to go out, while Bai Wan sat properly on the sofa, watching a Halloween educational video on TV.
Upon seeing Chi Shen, the Red-Cloaked Ghost lunged at him, yelling, "Let's go!"
Chi Shen held her off with one hand, lifting her up, "You want to go out too?"
Ji Xingchen remained impassive, "It's a risk to let her out. She can't control herself."
"You really want to go out?" Chi Shen looked at the tearful Red-Cloaked Ghost, shaking her head slightly.
Even being held up, she nodded vigorously, "Yes! I've never been out!"
"Alright, but you have to promise me one thing: no matter what happens, you won't move," Chi Shen declared.
Ji Xingchen frowned, his expression suggesting he disapproved of Chi Shen's indulgence. Bai Wan had to stifle a chuckle upon noticing.
The Red-Cloaked Ghost eagerly agreed, "Okay!"
Ji Xingchen refrained from further comments, and informed Chi Shen of the evening's plan: They would walk from Tongfu Garden to Central Plaza to partake in the Halloween eve celebrations and then walk back. Although the walk would take about half an hour, they'd be amidst the bustling streets of the city, filled with Halloween festivities and costumed participants.
Chi Shen found the arrangement perfect, trusting Ji Xingchen's meticulous planning.
Ji Xingchen had also thought of costumes. Bai Wan didn't need any changes. Her potent aura allowed her to materialize, fitting the role of a ghost bride in a red wedding dress. To ensure safety and avoid frightening others too much, Ji Xingchen suggested she leave behind her tablet with bloody handprints, replacing it with an unlit red candle, to which Bai Wan gladly agreed.
However, there was a challenge. Bai Wan's aura was overpowering. If she appeared on the streets, everyone would feel the cold, and those nearby might even fall sick. This wasn't something she could control. For Chi Shen, the solution was simple: he gave her the faceless mirror.
Ji Xingchen planned to attach a ghastly face onto Chi Shen's clothes, capable of morphing its expressions to frighten people, lest others mistake it for a mere logo, thereby missing out on the Halloween vibe.
After hearing Ji Xingchen's plan, Chi Shen inquired, "And what about you?"
Ji Xingchen replied, "I'm not that interested. I'll just accompany you out."
Chi Shen nodded understandingly, just as not everyone is fond of celebrating the Lunar New Year, it's normal for some ghosts not to fancy Halloween.
Once everything was arranged, as the sun set, Chi Shen first warmed up the dinner he had brought. He ate it under the eager eyes of everyone present. Afterwards, he hoisted the red-dressed ghost onto his shoulder, Ji Xingchen merged into his shadow, and Bai Wan, holding a candle, accompanied him outside.
On Halloween's eve, they arrived!
Before they even left Tongfu Court, Chi Shen spotted groups of residents in makeup, ready for Halloween. Although there were many young residents he didn't recognize, seeing them all dressed up sparked friendly greetings as they all left together.
Several street-side shops had lit up plastic pumpkin lanterns. Convenience stores advertised new pumpkin pastries, dessert shops rolled out Halloween-themed treats, and children with baskets adorned with bat wings sought candies. Those without candies on hand would cheerfully buy some from the nearby convenience store.
If someone didn't offer candies, the most a child would do is pull a face and move on. After all, Halloween isn't a traditional local festival, and most people were just soaking in the festive atmosphere without strictly following its original customs.
Soon, two children in wizard cloaks approached Chi Shen, looking up and chanting in a childish tone, "Trick or treat!"
Forewarned by Ji Xingchen, Chi Shen was well-prepared. His pockets bulged with candies. Handing a handful to one child, he listened to the joyous exclamation, "Thanks, mister!"
The other child, however, stared intently at Bai Wan, eyes filled with curiosity.
Bai Wan also seemed to be subtly observing him.
Chi Shen leaned down and said, "Little friend, she's with me. Since I've given you candy, that should be enough, right?"
The child kept his gaze on Bai Wan, making her visibly uneasy. The red candle in her hand trembled slightly, casting a tense atmosphere.
"Let's go find that pretty lady! She looks beautiful!" the other child exclaimed, tugging at his companion.
As the child was being dragged away, he shouted, "This lady is the prettiest! I want to wear clothes like hers!"
Chi Shen chuckled, thinking that children often perceive what adults cannot. He wondered if the child had noticed something, but it turned out he simply admired Bai Wan's attire.
Bai Wan seemed relieved and replied cheerfully, "When you grow up, you can wear one like that."
The children waved goodbye, "See you, miss!"
Bai Wan hesitated for a moment and then extended her hand, waving it slowly as Ji Xingchen had taught her. "Goodbye."
The two children laughed as they scampered away, and Chi Shen continued walking forward with Bai Wan by his side.
The red-robed female ghost on Chi Shen's shoulder tried to raise her head as if wanting to speak, but he held her down, causing her to remain silent and look rather dejected.
They hadn't walked far before a man, adorned with a grim reaper's face paint, a long black cloak, and a scythe, stopped them. Bai Wan seemed visibly anxious. The man politely asked, "May I take a picture with you? That bridal gown is exquisite!"
Bai Wan turned to Chi Shen, looking unsure. He nodded with a smile, "Just stand still, and that'll be fine."
The man dressed as the grim reaper quickly beckoned his friend over to take the photo. After glancing at the picture, he noticed that the image of the bride next to him was somewhat blurred. However, he felt that the eerie effect suited Halloween perfectly. Not wanting to impose on Bai Wan for another shot, he decided against retaking the photo. He even contemplated asking for her contact information but was declined by Chi Shen. Apologetically, he left with his friend, laughing.
Before they could reach Central Street, countless people had already asked to take pictures with them. Compared to Chi Shen, Bai Wan's attire was a more popular choice. The red-robed ghost on Chi Shen's shoulder resembled a carelessly placed mop, making Bai Wan, in her detailed bridal dress, the star attraction of the evening.
Initially, Bai Wan seemed overwhelmed, being surrounded by so many strangers wanting to converse with her. Chi Shen would give her reassuring glances, and with time, she began to warm up to the festive environment, even appearing to enjoy the compliments.
Soon, Bai Wan became the center of a photography circle, while Chi Shen stood in the shadowy outskirts. As he waited for the photo sessions to conclude, two young girls approached him, their eyes lighting up, asking if they could take a picture with him.
Chi Shen agreed. After taking the photo, one of the girls curiously pointed to the 'mop' on his shoulder and asked, "What's that?"
Lifting the red-robed female ghost for display, Chi Shen explained, "I intended to dress as someone haunted by a malevolent spirit, but it seems I might have missed the mark."
The terrifying visage of the ghost startled the girls. The sight was so bone-chilling that they instinctively stepped back, thanking Chi Shen before making a hasty retreat.
Chi Shen mused to himself, "Am I really that off-putting?"
From within the shadows, Ji Xingchen chided, "You scared them."
"Well, they were the ones who asked first..."
While conversing, Chi Shen's gaze scanned the crowd, landing on a person with zombie makeup, who was following two girls. From this 'zombie,' a faint stench of decay and a dark aura emanated.
Bai Wan also turned her attention to the same individual.
Ji Xingchen stated, "You enjoy the night; I'll handle this."
Chi Shen replied, "It's Halloween after all; let's do it together."
The two girls wandered to a secluded spot to touch up their makeup, intermittently discussing the individuals they had encountered. Suddenly, the man with the zombie makeup entered their vicinity. One of the girls excitedly exclaimed, "His makeup looks incredibly realistic! Hey, can I take a photo with you?"
The 'zombie' stiffly turned to face them.
The girl exclaimed, "My friend, you're so dedicated! That turn of the head was pure artistry!"
The zombie stiffly turned and began walking towards them, his movements rigid and unnatural. The girl continued, "How did you create those wounds on your body? Is it special effects makeup? Aren't you cold dressed like that?"
A faint, repugnant odor reached them, and her friend finally sensed something amiss. She tugged her away, saying, "Let's leave; it's too secluded here. Not safe."
"But first, I want to take a photo with this zombie friend..."
She turned, and the zombie was almost nose-to-nose with her. Now, she could confirm the source of the foul stench—it emanated from this 'actor' portraying a zombie. Up close, the odor was overwhelmingly putrid.
A piercing scream sliced through the night, but amidst the festivities, no one took notice.
The girl gazed in terror as the zombie approached. Her friend frantically hit the zombie with her bag, to no avail. The trapped girl felt an icy chill enveloping her. Was she going to die tonight?
"So cold," her friend muttered, trembling. "Why is it so cold?"
"Let her go," came a melodic voice, ethereal and ghostly. The ghost bride they had posed with earlier stood nearby, a red candle in her hand, its flame a ghostly blue.
The zombie froze, as if confronted with something terrifying. He dropped the girl and fled.
Meanwhile, Chi Shen was outside, on the phone, "Yes, Central Street, next to No. 45, in the alley. You handle the aftermath."
On the other end, Xu Jiayuan's voice was filled with exasperation, "Another incident?!"
Chi Shen hung up swiftly and signaled to Bai Wan, "Let's go."
As Bai Wan turned to leave, the two girls grabbed her, one sobbing and repeatedly thanking her.
The other girl clung to her hand, pausing a moment as she felt the cold emanating from Bai Wan, "Miss, are you cold? Let me buy you some milk tea!"
Bai Wan looked a bit flustered. She quickly extinguished her candle, waving her hands to downplay the situation.
Chi Shen's gaze followed the fleeing ghostly zombie, sensing something peculiar about the direction it had taken.
*
Author's Note:
Please support my friend's novel!
Title: "The Aloof Underworld King Breaks the Seal Online."
Author: Lanyang Xingping
Synopsis: Originally titled "Walking into Science", this story is now known as "The Handsome Underworld King Debunks Feudal Superstitions Online".
Inside the eerie, ancient castle, Xun Min clung to Yu Tu's back, almost as if she was glued to him.
Yu Tu abruptly halted, casting a complex glance over his shoulder, "Did you hear any clicking sounds?"
Without opening her eyes, Xun Min dismissed her trembling legs, which felt like they were clashing against each other, "No, you're just hearing things."
Yu Tu: "..."
Amidst Xun Min's terrified screams, Yu Tu stepped forward and yanked off a ghastly mask, revealing a mechanical body beneath.
Xun Min: "...?"
Yu Tu gazed at Xun Min with a mixture of disappointment and exasperation, "How many times must I tell you? Ghosts don't exist in this world!"
Xun Min discreetly retrieved her frightened leg bones and obediently responded, "Right, right, right."
One day, to Xun Min's astonishment, she saw her boss's boss's boss bowing respectfully to Yu Tu, addressing him as "Your Highness, the Underworld King."
Xun Min: "..."
The story features a poor-looking, science-believing Emperor of the Underworld vs. an ultra-strong, easily scared Grim Reaper.
PS: The narrative contains significant creative liberties. The aforementioned Grim Reaper is a newly established role within the Eastern Underworld system. The Emperor of the Underworld is the sole ruler and the most powerful boss.
