Original subtitles

Jin-san,

I'm really sorry.

Sorry for what?

It's not your fault.

No need to blame yourself.

But dealing with death is a busy affair.

There's so much to do, no time for grieving.

I went through the same when my mother passed.

Handling the body, funeral expenses…

After it was all done,

I slept like a log. The next morning,

I went to her usual chair,

and she wasn't there.

Of course, she had passed away.

But it was at that moment that―

I truly realized she was gone.

It was so sad.

I still can't fully grasp the situation,

and I'm sure you're confused too.

Leave the hard work to me,

and go home to rest today.

Okay?

I'm right here with you.

Call me if you need anything.

Morning, Kengo.

Sayuri...

Chapter One: Calling to the dead

Prank Pizza! Is this the Akaboshi residence?

Yes.

You ordered one large Prank Original, right? That'll be a thousand yen.

Um...

Is this some kind of prank?

Oh that?

No. My dad told me to put it up.

Your dad?

Yeah.

Is this for real?

Are you intrigued?

―Not intrigued. More like... curious? ―Same thing.

Do you wish to meet someone? A ghost?

Um...

Fifty thousand yen per ghost.

How about a quick chat?

No, I'm on the job.

It's alright. It won't take much of your time.

Dad! We have a customer!

Come on in.

What's your name?

Tojo.

Full name?

Kengo Tojo.

Kengo,

Um... I better get back to work. I'll come back later.

Kengo, it's fine!

It won't take long! Just sit down!

Kengo, for a certain fee, I can make spirits visible to my customers.

That's what I do.

Spirits...

That's right. It's a 100% success rate.

Do you want to meet a ghost?

By spirit, do you mean...

a dead person?

That's right. I'm talking about the Dead.

Do you have anyone deceased?

Any family member, acquaintance or friend you wish to see?

Who is it?

Your parents? Grandparents?

I know. A girl.

You're easy to understand.

The kind I find likable.

What do you say? Wanna meet her?

That's just taking advantage of people's vulnerability with a fake business.

I hope you get what's coming to you.

You might be right.

I might get punished one day.

Taking advantage of the deceased to make money is incredibly insensitive.

Let me be honest.

When I mentioned the 100% success rate earlier, it comes with a condition.

You see, only spirits―

with lingering regrets or grudges remain in this world.

Those who have already moved on to the afterlife?

I can't bring them back.

What I can do is make these lingering spirits visible,

and I do that for clients who pay me.

In that sense, the 100% success rate is accurate.

And if you're dying to meet someone, a girl in your case,

it's possible because she's right next to you.

You're pretty good for a con man.

I got it! Today, I'll make an exception.

It seems like you're not here out of mere curiosity.

Your desire is genuine, isn't it?

Alright, I'll make a bet with you.

You can pay me later.

If you can meet her,

you can come back later and pay.

How does that sound?

Let's give it a shot, Kengo.

Close your eyes.

Imagine her strongly.

Kengo.

Kengo.

You alright?

I'm sorry.

I'll be late for work, so...

I'll be on my way.

Alright, take care!

Welcome!

It's been a while.

Kengo, long time no see.

We were just out of customers.

This late, maybe we should close up.

―That's right. ―You don't have to.

It's fine.

Alright then, I'm heading home.

Sure.

Please make yourself comfortable.

Thank you.

I'm sorry for dropping by unexpectedly.

I was starting to think you wouldn't come at all.

That was my intention.

Don't say such sad things.

I've been lonely too.

How's Yasuko-san doing?

She was feeling under the weather for a while. But she's completely fine this week.

That's good to hear.

In life, everyone goes through tough times.

But if you hold on and endure, time will heal your wounds.

Humans can be surprisingly resilient.

You're still young.

After you've grieved, try to put her behind you and move forward.

I won't forget.

I will never forget.

I see.

No matter where I walk in this city,

Sayuri is always there.

It’s impossible to forget when there are simply too many memories.

Do you have any intention of leaving this place?

Even if I were to go far away, I don't believe things would change.

Every time I step into a convenience store―

or gaze up at the night sky,

memories of Sayuri flood my mind.

It might sound strange, but it's almost as if I'm cursed.

A curse that can never be broken.

But even so,

I have no choice but to keep on living, right?

That's only natural.

Sayuri?

That's right.

Kengo, where have you been until this hour?

Well,

I went for a walk after work.

Then I went to your father's.

I see.

How did my Dad get along?

Yeah,

he seemed fine.

I see.

What is this?

What?

Why are you alive?

Am I hallucinating?

Come here.

Creepy.

Huh? What's so creepy?

No, because you're not human.

Yeah, you're right.

I turned into a ghost.

What's the matter with you?

That's a lot of things.

I've got a lot of things I want to do.

I suppose so.

It seems like you've been living a very self-defeating life while I've been away.

What's with the messy room?

I'm so tired.

Did you take a shower?

For now, I'm going to sleep.

Hey.

I'm sorry, Sayuri.

I'm really tired.

I couldn't sleep for a long time.

But when I hear your voice, I feel relieved.

I think I could sleep now.

Huh? I came all this way but you're going to bed?

I can't believe it.

I'm sorry, Sayuri.

This is a dream, right?

But...

I'm glad you came to see me.

Come on, you're really going to sleep.

Morning! It's noon!

You sleep too much!

Get up!

Whoa!

Sayuri?

Morning.

Good morning.

Wasn't that a dream?

It wasn't a dream.

Now get up and take a shower.

Kengo,

I found a dirty book!

Oh...

Stop it.

What?

Don't look at me like I'm a ghost.

Sorry.

But you're... a ghost, right?

Yes, but...!

Yes, but...!

Well, I had to work today. Sorry, I have to go.

―Breakfast? ―I don't want it. I haven't eaten in a while.

No! What if you fall down during your part-time job?

I've never fallen.

No! There's something in the fridge, right?

I'll teach you, and we'll make something.

First, spread the oil.

Okay.

Oil. You see?

Next, eggs.

Let's cook some eggs.

Can you crack?

Fry the eggs.

Damn!

Are you okay? What are you doing?

You need to cool down. Are you okay?

It's a little messed up, but that's okay.

Why don't you eat?

Eat it.

Say, "Let's eat."

Let's eat.

Let's eat.

What's going on?

Nah,

it's nothing.

See you later!

Have a good day!

Hello.

Ah, the Pizza Man!

What brings you here without a pizza, I wonder?

I've brought the reward of fifty thousand yen.

Oh, you met her.

Is your father here?

He is at the hospital,

and he might not come back soon.

Well...

then...

Do you mind if I give this to you?

Tell him I'll be back.

See you then.

Hey!

Shall I be the one to pry?

What?

Surely, you must burn with the desire to reveal the enigma that befell him.

Regarding the strange event that happened to you.

If you go home now, won't you struggle to sleep at night?

How much do you know?

I hold knowledge of the arcane tales.

Thus, I shall spare you the inquiry.

Ah, isn't that quite the spirited girlfriend you have there?

Have you two been courting for a while?

We've been together since elementary school,

you know, childhood friends.

We only started dating in high school.

Wow, that's really dedicated, isn't it?

Well, when you put it that way...

How about we change your nickname from "Pizza Man" to―

"Devoted Pizza Man"? It's a promotion!

Huh...?

Hey, so, have you ever thought about getting married?

Well, not really.

Why?

I'm just a part-timer at a pizza place, and,

actually, I'm trying to become a singer.

A singer?!

Wait, are you serious?

Yeah, I'm pretty serious about it.

That's amazing.

So the "Conscious Pizza Man" is an "Aspiring Singer's Pizza Man."

Yeah, I'm kind of in a halfway position, so I thought marriage would be irresponsible.

I see.

So, I want to get to the point.

Okay.

Who are you guys?

Sure, we can talk about that at my favorite café.

It's on "Conscious Pizza Man."

Don't talk with your mouth full.

My family has been a lineage of spiritualists for generations.

We didn't have any specific doctrines or sects; it was more like a local folk belief.

We used to pray for good health, communicate messages from the deceased,

There was decent demand from the locals.

But it's only known to the old folks.

Actually, it was back in my grandmother's time that they started calling us frauds,

and my dad had no intention of continuing the tradition.

Huh? But didn't your father wholeheartedly follow that path?

No, it's different.

Actually, he returned home just two months ago.

For the previous 10 years, he had abandoned his family and wandered around.

I don't know where he was or what he was doing, but―

one day, he suddenly came back home and

started this shady business, resembling a psychic scam.

How is that different from what your ancestors did?

The difference lies in whether it's done for the greater good or for personal gain.

It's about taking responsibility for one's actions considering the real lives of people.

What he does is more like a sideshow.

He does it just because it amuses people, asking for money,

and he has no intention of taking responsibility afterward.

I don't really understand your family's situation,

but at least for today, I came to thank your father.

Thank you.

I'll convey that message to him.

To be honest, I'm scared.

I'm afraid that when I get back home, she'll be gone.

But even if that's the case,

just meeting her once was worth the fifty thousand yen, I think.

I'll tell him about that.

Oh, can I finish the cake?

Sure.

Um...

there's one thing I want to ask.

What is it?

Will you be my friend?

Oh, why?

I don't actually have any friends.

You can't possibly have none.

It's true, I don't have any.

Yeah, I can kind of understand.

Do you? What's giving you that impression?

I don't want to hurt my friends.

If we're friends, please don't hold back.

Oh, what did you just say?

From today, we can be friends.

Yay.

As proof of that, can we exchange contact information?

Sure.

If anything comes up, I'll contact you.

I'll contact you even if nothing comes up.

I'm home.

Sayuri?

Are you home?

Oh, there was one more thing I forgot to mention.

Hey, if it's important, you can't just leave me hanging.

I'm sorry.

What? Just tell me.

Well, you see, I've felt this way since the first time I saw you,

from your looks and the way you talk, I thought you were cool.

Talking with you again today made me realize that I like you, including your personality.

Uh, are you listening?

I'm listening.

I was wondering if you'd like to have tea together again. What do you think?

Sure, let's have tea again.

Thank you very much. That's all.

Yeah, then I'll hang up.

Yes, thank you for today.

See you.

Kengo.

You're creeping me out, don't startle me.

I'm a ghost, remember?

Sorry for scaring you.

You're here.

No, I was out for a walk.

I sensed you were home, so I came back.

I see.

Who were you talking to?

Oh, she's an acquaintance from work.

I see.

Hey, Kengo, do you want to have dinner, or take a bath,

or...?

You can't cook, you can't heat the water.

That's not true. If you follow my instructions,

it will be as good as my own cooking, right?

I'm not very skilled.

It's fine. You can easily make a stir-fry.

Sayuri,

I'd like to eat your cooking, but...

What do you think about going on a date? It's been a while.

Don't you want to go out?

It'll be okay.

I'll be right by your side.

We were in the first grade, so it's been seven years.

It feels nostalgic.

There's not much charm in confessing in the neighborhood park.

That's not true.

I like this park.

I'm glad I mustered the courage back then.

I've lived all these seven years thinking that way.

Thank you.

But I don't think about it like that.

We've been together since elementary school.

We've always been together,

so I've just somehow thought it would continue that way.

What about now?

Huh?

How do you feel now?

I don't know.

Oh, I'm done for.

Just need a little break.

Hey, you've had too much to drink. Let's go home.

Sorry.

Buddy, what are you doing here? Aren't you cold?

Hey!

Kengo, just stop.

What's your problem?

Sorry, it's nothing.

Are you crazy, man?

Come on, we're leaving.

Sorry, I just...

No,

thanks.

Chapter Two: Exposure

Dad, I'm going.

Huh?

Oh, have a good day.

Are you okay? You look tired.

Yes.

Maybe your Mom won't make it.

Why don't you take a day off work?

See you later.

Kana, are you listening?

Sorry.

Ah, her. You mustn't see her.

She's just a needy person.

Why doesn't she just talk to us normally?

Can we talk to her?

Hey, Umika. Don't you ever get lonely eating alone?

I do.

Why don't you eat together?

Because everyone is avoiding me.

That's not true. We're talking to you.

And... you all seem to be friendly, but the talks are not interesting.

What's that? Isn't it a bit harsh?

It's not. True opinion.

That's just how it is, being disliked.

I'm sorry to cut our conversation short, but―

I need some rest. Let's catch up later.

Gross. Really, I'll be cursed.

Never talk to you again. Let's go.

Yep.

I'm home.

Umika, come here for a second.

Good to see you're out of the hospital. You look good.

Did anything happen while I was away?

Nothing happened.

The money?

Huh?

Don't act like you don't know. You've got it.

I don't have it.

That can't be right. At the very least, that guy must have come.

You know, the pizza guy.

Oh, now that you mention it, he didn't show up.

I've been taking care of you from the time you were―

a little kid until you finished elementary school.

You loved music like your mother, so―

on your birthdays, I bought you many CDs, and―

I even took you to fine concerts.

I even had you take piano lessons, but―

you slacked off, and you didn't improve much.

Even after I left home, I've been sending child support, right?

I wondered what kind of smart daughter you'd grow up to be,

but here you are, a brat who can't even tell a decent lie.

If you were my daughter, you'd act smarter.

Don't tell crappy lies.

Got it?

Answer me.

That's enough. Go away.

―Hey. ―Hello.

It's been a while. What's up?

Yeah, just got back?

I've been working until now.

You've been working hard.

I know, right? I'm exhausted.

It's just non-stop overtime at work.

―I want to quit. ―Sounds like a black company.

If they make you work overtime, they better pay you extra!

Exactly!

That's right.

My boss is a real piece of work.

He's definitely a terrible boss.

Every single day, he tells me to make tea for him. Can't he make his own?

Seriously? Is it the Dark Ages or something?

I know, right?

By the way,

have you thought about quitting that job? Maybe you should look for something else?

Hello?

Sorry,

give me a moment.

Hey! Where are you going?

I'll get some drinks. Do you want some?

I don't want it because I can't drink!

Good.

―Really? ―You're good.

Better than last time.

A little greasy?

Isn't it?

It's dancing on a pan.

You've grown up.

Really?

I'll eat.

Won't you pick up?

Well... it's okay.

Why don't you make some stew next time?

Looks like it's going to be difficult.

It's okay.

You can do well.

I'd rather eat pork miso soup.

Sounds good! We'll make it tonight.

Okay.

So, see you later.

See you later. Take care.

Excuse me, Prank Pizza!

Oh! My friend Pizza Man! Hello!

The Prank Pizza's original large size is 1,000 yen.

My friend is treating me, please!

Don't rely on.

Why don't you answer my calls? You're my friend.

Sorry, I was a bit busy.

A Pizza Man who isn't my friend is just a delivery person.

Are you going to school today?

I'm skipping it. I thought I'd go this afternoon.

You have the freedom.

What time do you finish today?

Five.

Then go out with me after.

Hmmm...

What's the matter? Are you busy with your dead girlfriend?

Sorry, maybe another time.

Yes. Enjoy your fleeting happiness.

What?

Huh?

What does that mean?

My advice to you.

They say love is blind, but you think you can see, but you can't see anything.

If you don't, you'll be in irreversible trouble.

I can find some time.

All right.

I'll see you after work.

A blind Pizza Man.

―See you later. ―Bye.

―Kana, see you tomorrow! ―See you.

Hey!

Die!

Die!

Die!

Umika?

Oh, Kana, hello.

What are you doing here?

It's practice swinging!

By the way,

I found the live videos of your music on the Internet,

so I listened to them. It's so cool.

Thank you.

But can I speak frankly?

Sure.

It's very common.

It's typical of unsuccessful singer-songwriters.

I see.

Don't talk about it. Let's talk about the point.

I'm telling you the point.

No, about Sayuri. You were gonna say something, like it's not good this way.

Who's Sayuri?

That's my girlfriend!

Oh, I see.

Is there a limit or something?

Is she going to disappear someday?

Of course, someday she will.

But if she doesn't want to, I don't think she will become enlightened on her own. Maybe.

Then what's irreversible?

Pizza Man's life.

I'm just saying, can you continue living with the ghost?

I don't mind that.

Will you stay with her even after you quit the pizza shop in five or ten years?

She will never age. She can't even have children.

Besides, the only people who can see her are the Pizza Man and us.

To others, it's like she doesn't exist.

It's practically the same as being alone.

No, I'm not alone. She is right there.

And I still love her.

If she didn't appear as a ghost, would you still love her?

Yes.

Five or ten years from now?

Yeah, is that a problem?

I...

like Pizza Man.

I can touch ghosts. This is what my dad can't do either.

If Pizza Man is a ghost, I can still touch you like this.

Isn't it very romantic?

I'm happy to hear that.

Thank you.

Do you know how the human hand is made?

The human hand is shaped like a spatula at first,

and it is not divided into five fingers like this.

That is why the cells between the fingers die by themselves,

thus completing the useful human hand.

Your music is a metaphorical spatula.

All the cells between your fingers are still there.

You can't play a nice melody freely with it.

Did I play that badly?

It's not a matter of being good or bad.

You're kind of a big deal.

Not as much as some Pizza Man.

What's the big deal about me?

Calm down.

Anyway, I'm glad we could talk about something important.

I'm sorry to bother you.

No, it's okay.

Kengo! I looked for you!

Sorry. What's wrong?

Daddy's in trouble!

Jin-san!

Can you hear me? Hold on!

Jin-san!

You must be surprised.

I think he's having a seizure.

I shouldn't have gone shopping.

I'm glad you happened to be here, otherwise―

I don't know what would have happened to him.

No, please don't mind me.

Anyway, I'm glad he survived.

Thank you so much.

How... did you know where the pills were?

Oh,

it's just a hunch.

I'm glad he's okay.

Yes.

I've been thinking...

about my mom and dad.

I knew they couldn't see me.

Sayuri,

why don't you take your parents to that psychic?

No. Don't do that.

If you do that, I won't be able to become enlightened.

Wouldn't that be nice?

Forget it.

I've always been scared.

I wondered what would happen to everyone after I died.

I was afraid to see them.

But when I saw them today, they looked better than I expected.

Did you know your father had an illness?

Nope.

My dad looks fine, but he's mentally weak.

I hope he's okay.

I hope my dad and mom... will always be fine.

I hope you'll always be fine and smile, Kengo.

Right?

I don't believe this.

I'm so sorry! What the hell am I doing?

Stupid! Idiot! Fool!

You're right.

Of all days, on such an important day... jeez!

Where are you, Sayuri?

I'll be there soon.

Do you want me to come?

Just stay in the station!

Sayuri?

Sayuri?

Are you okay? Sayuri?

Wake up!

Shut up, idiot! I'm awake!

Oh, that's rare.

Bon appétit.

―Sorry, I have to take this. ―Yes.

Hello.

Is this the correct phone for Pizza Man?

Yes, but please call the landline to order a pizza.

Oh, um, I didn't call because I wanted to eat pizza today.

I know. What's wrong?

I have one last request.

Would you please go to a concert with me?

It's a Hanging Girls' Band live gig, which has greatly influenced you,

and it's the last time to make memories.

If you go with me, then I won't contact you again.

Yeah, it's fine.

Really?

Thank you very much.

So, when?

―Today. ―What?!

Oh, I actually... bought two tickets ahead of time,

thinking that we would go together if my confession was successful.

Yes, yes. Unluckily, I happen to be off today.

Then how about we meet at the station at 16:00?

All right. See you later.

Yes. I'm looking forward to it.

Who was that?

Oh. It's a girl I met recently.

The girl from the prayer house.

Oh, that girl.

Actually, a lot has happened since then.

It's a bit long, but can you hear me out?

Yeah, I'll listen.

I'm about to leave.

Yep. Have fun.

Um,

my name is Umika Akaboshi.

Whoa.

Oh, can you see me?

Ah, yes. I can.

Heh.

What can I do for you?

Um, is Kengo here?

Oh, he's going out.

That's weird.

I was supposed to meet him at the station.

Oh! Are you the girl he's going to the gig with today?

Yes.

I was waiting for him at the station, but he didn't show up in time.

Did you call his cell?

He's not answering.

I wonder what's going on.

Hmm...

It's no use. Let's just wait in our house.

Oh, are you sure?

It's okay.

Oh, but the door's locked.

It's okay.

Come on in.

Sorry to bother you.

Um... What are you doing?

I was going to boil some tea.

It's going to take a while, so no thanks.

Can I use the restroom, please?

Oh, be my guest.

Just to confirm,

you're Kengo's girlfriend, right?

Yeah.

Oh, but I'm dead, so ex-girlfriend, maybe?

Is this trespassing after all?

Don't worry about it!

It's his fault for not keeping his promise.

Go ahead.

Now, excuse me.

Umika, let's watch TV together.

I'm sorry for everything.

What day is it today?

What the hell is she doing?

I'm home!

Sayuri?

Sayuri?

Good morning.

Pizza Man, you're serious about becoming a singer, aren't you?

Hey, answer me.

Is your dream to have a happy family with her?

Or to become a singer? Which is it?

It's not good to delay making a decision and live with it,

so I'll make it clear for you here.

Hey, wake up, ghost.

Stop it!

Shut up, ghost.

Now, I will begin the Ritual of Expulsion.

Kengo, are you okay?

You want to be with her and have a happy family,

but you also want to be a successful singer and become a big star.

It's just that you were a little greedy, I guess.

Life is not so easy that such a thing can come true at the same time, isn't it?

Ah! You should sing a heartbreak song.

Artists can sublimate all their past pain and―

misfortune stories into their works, right?

It's the only way left for you now!

Let's make the saddest song in the world.

My beloved girlfriend has died. I'll write a song about this sadness.

The song is called, I guess,

"My Sweetheart is Dead!" Or...

How about "My Dead Girlfriend"?

Oh! You've convinced me.

It's true, isn't it?

Well, halfway is not good,

so I'm going to kill your girlfriend for real.

Hey, hey, hey. What the hell are you doing that hurts?

You're a ghost, don't be in pain.

All that pain and suffering you're going through, it's all a lie.

It's an illusion.

Oh, so cute.

Umika,

why are you doing this?

"Why are you doing this?"

What will you do with it when you find out?

Are you trying to find out my motives and persuade me to help you?

What does it mean to be saved when you're already dead?

May I? You're already dead.

You can't do anything about it after you're dead.

It's fine.

Why don't you just leave me alone?

That's my line.

Can't you please leave the human world alone?

Go ahead, make your will.

Come on, hurry up!

I'm sorry it had to come to this.

When I became a ghost,

the first thing that came to my mind was worrying about you.

I wondered if you felt uneasy without me,

if you were able to live on your own.

That's why I thought that―

the reason I became a ghost was to help you.

My mission is to support you―

so that you can live properly―

until you recover.

But...

I was so happy to be living with you again,

and then I realized.

I just want to stay alive.

Today, tomorrow, five or ten years from now,

I want to greet the morning with you next to me.

If I could do that, I would be really happy.

I know it's wrong.

So...

I hope you will continue to...

It's a long jumble!

Shing!

Don't move, okay? If you move even a bit, you'll go to hell, okay?

Don't touch me!

I didn't kill her because I was jealous of her, you know.

Killing ghosts has always been a hobby of mine.

Hitting someone's head with a baseball bat is a very refreshing feeling.

Do you know what I mean?

As expected, I can't kill a real person, can I?

If it's a ghost, it won't be judged by the law, right?

It's in bad taste, I know.

But, this time it's also for you.

I know it's none of your business,

but it's not good for you if she continues to stay in this world.

I don't want you to be a weak person, trapped in a ghost,

forever dragging the past with you.

I'm looking at you and I'm getting frustrated.

I'm sorry for tying you up.

I wish I could go to the gig with you.

I'll give you this as an apology.

This is a pair of headphones.

It's a pretty good one, and it cost me 50,000 yen.

Kengo, find a living girlfriend.

The Shaman's Daughter

Chapter Three: Slaughter

I bought fried chicken.

Yeah.

Tell Yuki to come.

Er.

Yuki, dinner's ready.

Yuki?

Yuki.

Dinner's ready.

Let's eat.

Let's eat.

Yoshiko!

Kiyo, she isn't here.

Ah? What are you saying?

She's right there. Right, Yoshiko?

I think her blurriness has gotten worse since she died.

It must have been hard on her.

She used to be such an intelligent and strict person.

People are so abrupt, aren't they?

Don't say that.

Don't say that about her.

I'm sure she can see her.

She can see my mom.

Is it true that Kana's mom died?

Apparently.

How did she die?

Some kind of incurable disease, right?

Seriously? Poor thing.

Morning,

Morning, Kana.

Did you see "Late Night Monday" yesterday?

The guest was Chief Furball. First appearance on terrestrial TV.

Oh, yeah.

I was so tired I fell asleep.

Oh, Chief Furball was a super handsome guy.

I have recorded it. Wanna watch?

Hmm, I don't know.

Uh, no, thanks.

Well, it will be uploaded online anyway.

Uh, yeah.

On second thought, I didn't like him that much.

Are you okay?

What?

It's about your mother.

Oh, it's not a problem.

Really?

Let us know if you need help. We will do whatever we can.

I'm okay with it. I'm totally fine.

I'm sorry, I guess I'm making you worry.

Thanks.

Good to know.

Last night's program was very interesting.

―Let's go karaoke today. ―Sounds good!

Hey!

Don't run away!

What are you doing?

Oh, you saw me.

Umika, you are a real freak. So funny!

I'm ashamed.

Wanna come home with me?

Okay.

Meeting ghosts for only 50,000 yen! Akaboshi Medium Office

I'm home.

Kana,

you're late. Let's have dinner.

Fried chicken again?

I thought you liked them.

No way two days in a row.

I'm sorry.

Tell Yuki to come.

No way. You should go get him.

Let's eat.

Let's eat.

How's your school?

What do you mean?

Study and blah, blah.

Nothing.

I see.

Sorry about all this.

I'm sorry I could only give you such food.

I miss her cooking.

Her cooking was delicious, wasn't it?

I'm really...

sorry.

Hello, Umika?

Yeah.

It was fun on the way home today.

Yes.

Are you okay to talk now?

Sure.

What are you doing now?

Me?

I'm just in my room.

Me too.

Sorry if I sound weird saying this.

What?

Why don't you get out of the house and go somewhere?

Now?

Yes.

Anyway, why run away from home?

Hmm, I didn't know what to do.

I felt like if I stayed home, I would be ruined,

and I couldn't help but run away from home.

"Ruined?"

There is no future for me anymore...

There is no place for me...

Kana, do you hate your family?

Yeah.

Maybe I don't like my family.

I don't feel happy with them, and―

I don't feel at ease with them at all.

I guess I'm a lousy kid.

Family is not always right.

There are shitty families everywhere in this world.

If you live in such family, you definitely won't have a good life.

If you say you hate your family, I believe you.

I bet your family is a bunch of shit.

Umika,

you're so strange, but you listen to me.

Really?

Yeah.

People seem to be listening, but they're not.

I just realized recently that they're just ignoring.

Then can I ask you one thing?

What?

Will you be my friend?

Sure. Of course.

Yay.

Will you hang out with me?

Absolutely.

But people might think you're weird, too.

No problem. We're not very close.

Then, let's shake hands.

Mmm, delicious.

―That's right. ―Yes.

Late-night ramen is the best!

I'm dying.

It's kind of funny.

You're funny too.

Kana, do you believe in ghosts?

Why all of a sudden?

I'm not psychic at all.

Just between us, okay?

What's that?

Like a diviner?

It's not that kind of cool.

Looks interesting though. I want to see it someday.

I'll show you anytime.

But if you can't see the ghost, it's no good.

Hmm, maybe I ate too much.

Garlic, maybe. I feel sick.

Absolutely. Me, too.

Disgusting!

Let's go buy gum!

Welcome.

It's 150 yen.

Thank you.

Have a good day.

I'm just going home really, so I'm okay now.

But I don't have any proof...

Just in case, can I ask for your parents' contacts? And...

Then please be careful.

Bad day at school?

Whatever.

Actually, there was some good news before I came here.

I'm sure you'll be happy to see it.

Hmm,

but you smell like garlic.

What did you eat, Kana?

Here we go.

I'm home.

Yoshiko, Kana's back.

Kana, Mom is back!

Oh,

what are you saying?

Here's your mom.

Look, there she is!

You don't see her, do you?

I'm home.

You just left, didn't you?

What happened to school?

I'm skipping.

Dad, are you dying?

Oh, I might die, just like that.

I see. Pity.

Anyway,

I'm sorry for hitting you the other day.

No problem, I don't mind at all.

Anyway, I got a friend.

She's in my class and she's really funny.

I thought it's easy to make friends with.

It's hard to keep them, though.

Make the effort.

Otherwise, it won't make sense.

It's a pain to maintain.

Relationships are changing whether we try or not,

so there's no need to strive to maintain them.

Likewise for family members.

Even you left home because you were too tired to maintain it.

That's not true.

I didn't want to let go if I could.

Relationships are surely very troublesome to maintain at times,

but it is very important to stay involved with someone.

The experience makes you grow and―

deepens your bond with others.

You can't develop love and friendship without a lot of trouble.

If you had a fight with someone at school,

you have to meet with your friends again the next day.

You'll have to think about whether―

you'll make up or stay fighting then.

School is hell after all!

Oh, this world is hell.

Hey, Dad. Can I hug you?

Huh? A hug?

Yep.

What a child you are.

More. Hold me tight.

I have bad dreams.

I have always had only bad dreams.

When I was little, I had bad dreams and woke up late at night,

she would notice and hug me and say, "It's okay."

I felt so safe and cried as hard as I could on her chest.

I was so happy that it was a dream and that she was next to me.

I still have bad dreams.

So I still look to the side.

I'm not looking for my mom.

But when I find no one in the room,

I feel lonely and miserable.

I can't say I'm glad it was a dream.

I keep thinking that maybe those bad dreams are real.

You'll be okay.

It's just a dream.

It's not real.

Yeah, I guess.

Umika, are you smoking?

Oh, did you get it?

It's bad for you.

Yeah.

I'm home.

Well, let's have dinner!

You sit there calmly.

Kana, go get Yuki.

Well, well!

Yuki, dinner's ready.

What's happened to Dad?

He said he can see mom somehow...

Can you see her?

Let's eat.

Now, I'm sorry but I'm going to eat in front of you.

But you are right,

I guess she really did see your mom.

Well, I'm sorry for saying you were just a blur the other day.

I'm sorry.

Dad.

Huh?

Is she really there?

Yes, she's there.

She's sitting right there in that seat.

Mom,

can you hear me?

If you can hear me, answer me properly.

Why don't you show yourself to me?

Kana.

Don't bother her too much.

Of course she wants to talk to you.

Don't worry,

I'll ask about it so that everyone can see it.

What's that mean?

Just wait and look forward to it.

Just eat.

I'm okay, don't worry.

They're at an age where they have a lot of problems,

but they'll manage.

Hmm?

Yeah, sure...

Hello.

Are you angry, Kana?

Why?

"Why?"

You said we were friends.

Yep.

I don't think you could have made friends if you'd done that.

Yep.

I was a fool for expecting that we might get along.

Sorry.

Ghost killers and such are lies anyway, right?

I'm not lying.

You were just trying to get my interest.

I'm not.

If so,

there is one ghost I want you to kill, so come to my house on Saturday.

If you were my friend, you'd come.

Hello.

Are you Kana's friend?

Mornin’

Mornin’

Wow, this is your room?

Right.

You're a little too relaxed in others' homes.

I can smell you.

Smell of garlic?

No. A girl's smell.

Is the ghost your mother?

Can you see her?

Yep.

My dad can see her.

I can't see her.

Heh.

Kana's dad is a bit annoying.

Yeah.

A little bit, I mean, a lot.

That float is not good.

Let's wake him up.

I'll get something to drink.

Oh? Umika?

Hey, what are you doing!

Wow, where did you get this?

Don't look at it.

What are you doing?

Who is she?

Umika. Same class friend.

Hi. I am Umika, Kana's best friend.

Are you her brother?

Y…yes.

Why are you so nervous?

Are you Cherry Boy?

Yuki, are you okay?

―Yay. ―I was so close.

You're not very good at games.

I don't mind if I don't have that talent. It's not good for anything in life.

You seem pretty chagrined to say so.

Huh? Don't be selfish.

I told you I don't like games anyway.

Is that so? I like them.

Those adults who criticize "game brain," I want to eliminate them all.

That's typical of you. Besides, isn't "game brain" a defunct term by now?

Anyway, Kana, I'm so hungry.

It's already this time? I'm going to ask my dad.

Dad!

Umika, thank you.

Not at all!

I wish Kana could cook as well as you.

You're overreacting. I just cut up some vegetables.

Hey, are you okay?

Don't eat in too much of a hurry.

This place is so lively.

Really?

Grandma is old now, and Yuki doesn't talk much.

It would be nice if he were a bit more talkative.

Yuki, it's good, isn't it?

It is good once in a while, isn't it?

How old is he?

He's two years older than Kana,

so he'll be 20 this year.

He's been a recluse lately, since he failed the exams, though.

I think we'll get along, where we like to play games!

I see.

If only he could have a girlfriend as cute as you.

I only have one friend at school, so―

please be friends with me if you like.

Yuki, here's your chance.

Well, do you have any siblings?

I don't have any. I live alone now.

Aren't your parents worried?

My family is dead.

My father is barely alive, but he doesn't have long to live.

I see.

Sorry.

Maybe I asked a little too much.

No, no, don't mind at all.

I hated them, and I'm glad they're dead.

Don't say that kind of thing that you hate your parents.

I was in junior high school,

and I was walking home with a good friend.

I found a dog on a narrow, unpopular country road.

The dog walked toward us, wagging its tail.

The dog was so cute that I caressed its head.

I had a dog until about before I went to elementary school, so I loved dogs.

But when I saw her face next to me,

it was as if she had witnessed something terrible,

and she was shaking, her hands clenched tightly together.

At first I didn't understand why she was so scared.

I heard later that she had been bitten by a stray dog when she was a child―

and was seriously injured.

After that, I realized that even though we were walking down the same street,

we were actually looking at completely different views.

What is pleasurable in my eyes is terrifying to her.

The opposite is also true.

Are parents really that good?

I was abandoned by them.

My mother once tried to kill me.

That's what parents are to me.

That's...

a pretty heavy story.

Really?

I'm sure there are plenty of people who have been bitten by dogs.

Green onions, yum!

Do you always eat alone at home?

Yes, mostly.

I see.

Sometimes it's nice to eat with others?

Yep.

But something is wrong.

Hmm?

Because it's ridiculous that we're sitting around a pot―

when the scenery we're seeing is so different.

What does that mean?

You like to caress the dog.

But your daughter seems to be scared.

Right, Kana?

What...?

Yoshiko!

How do you feel about leaving your family behind to die?

You... can see her.

What do you exist for?

Begone from this realm!

Yoshiko, you don't have to answer.

I think you should leave now.

Yes, I can see why you are concerned.

But when you disappear, it gets somewhat better.

I understand you want to see it through,

but she seems to be trying to look forward.

Get out of here!

What are you doing... Stop it!

Oh, I'm sorry.

I have been drugged in your bowls.

You can't get up for a while.

Please get along and have dinner.

What the hell are you doing!

You love your wife?

It's much more important to you than your own daughter?

What are you saying?

Of course both of them are important!

Then you don't need her.

Do you need her to stay? To be correct, the ghost of your wife.

You don't want it, do you?

Just kill her, right?

Don't worry, suffering is the common thread that binds us all.

Stop! Stop it!

Stop it!

Yoshiko...

Yoshiko!

Sorry, Kana. Your mom has just now become a buddha.

Mom, ready yet?

It's ready now, so wait for it.

Today is Kana's favorite stew.

Yay.

Black stew or white stew?

Black one.

I can't wait to eat it!

I told you to wait.

You're always up early, Grandma.

I loved my mom.

She is a good cook, isn't she?

So I looked forward to bringing my lunch on field trip days and stuff.

It's a gorgeous homemade lunch box, so I can show it off to everyone.

She really was proud of me.

I wanted to see her, too.

Did I do something terrible?

I thought I had to do this.

I felt like my family would be ruined.

But, she was there, wasn't she?

Dad could see her.

I...

What have I done?

Dad, are you okay? You don't want to eat?

Hey, dad?

Hmm?

Oh...

I'm okay.

Come on!

You're the one who needs to hold on!

It's your children who need to cry the most!

How can you be so mesmerized, you idiot?

A loser like you is not for my family!

Get out!

I said get out. Hurry up and get out!

Mother! Open this door!

It's all my fault!

Let me try just one more time!

Mother!

I'm home.

Welcome back.

This smells like stew, right?

Right. Hurry up and prepare to dress.

―Let's eat. ―Yes.

Yuki,

dinner is ready!

It's delicious.

You've really improved as a cook.

Thanks.

So, how's everything at school?

Nothing.

Chapter Four: The Abyss

I want to go to Toshimaen.

Hey, remember that time?

You were so scared that you would never ride with me, right?

No, no. I did ride it at the end.

But you were quite reluctant.

I'm not a fan of that kind of thing.

I miss those days.

I was young back then.

You're still young.

No, you've got me beat...

Umika?

Was someone here?

No, I was talking to Umika.

Hey, how about going to the amusement park with Dad?

Are you doing your homework?

I'm doing it.

You've been acting strange lately.

What do you mean?

Hey, who are you talking to every night?

Mumbling, it's disturbing.

It's just sleep talking.

You just talked right now!

What are you getting worked up about?

If it's something psychological, let's go to the hospital.

I told you it's not!

Shall we get going?

Is your wife okay?

Don't worry about her. Now, let's go.

Oh, I forgot.

I'll get my phone. Just wait a moment.

You...

can see me, right?

Please don't resent your dad.

Mom,

I know the person who left with Dad.

She was here the whole time.

They talked the whole time you were away.

Why do you keep saying such horrible things?

Why do you always say things that make me sad?

I'm sorry.

Stop talking again! Don't speak until I say it's okay!

Mom, I'm home.

I'm home.

Dad! Are you feeling okay?

Does it look like I'm doing well?

I intended to return earlier, but I'm sorry.

Oh, by the way, Umika, how's school going?

I'm not going to school.

Huh?

Why not?

I'm still paying your tuition, right?

I go there once in a while, just to pass the time.

But honestly, does it really matter, Dad?

Um...

Don't start acting like a father now.

You said it yourself.

You're not fit for fatherly roles,

so don't say fatherly things.

You're right.

Oh, oops!

I forgot to buy you a cake, even though I meant to. A delicious cake.

Umika,

I can't have sweets. They'll worsen my illness.

I know.

So I was thinking of having you eat cake to finish you off.

Hey, don't say scary things.

Hehe, just kidding.

I know I said no fatherly things, but―

there's something I'd like to confess

as a person.

You mean why you left home?

That's right.

You don't have to tell me.

I've known all along.

I see ghosts too.

Oh,

you knew?

Yep.

Umika,

sometimes people have promises they must keep,

even if it's unethical

or hurts someone.

Life is a one-time event,

and...

it's full of choices.

I didn't want to make a mistake in the critical decision.

You made the right choice, didn't you?

No, it's the opposite.

I made the wrong choice.

I realized that just now.

At that moment, I felt like I was following a miracle when―

I made the choice to leave home,

guided by a sense that I was being led by a miracle.

But...

in the end,

I became nothing more than a lonely man.

I was wrong.

I'm truly sorry.

I've been waiting for you, you know?

I've waited for 10 years, and that clichéd line is disappointing.

Are you seeking forgiveness for that?

No matter how lonely you felt right before death, it's too convenient.

It's all your own doing, you moron.

I'm sorry.

Even though I can't stand old folks in general,

I love you, Dad, I really do.

I've admired your uncompromising stance, how you never pander to anyone.

I thought it was cool.

So ever since you left home,

I've been masturbating thinking about you.

When I see you someday,

I want to make love with you as if you will never let go of me again.

Mom would be stunned and the mistress ghost would give up,

we would show them a passionate kiss right in front of them.

If you are captivated by me,

I will abandon you one day and go on a journey.

I pledge to love a pretty girl I meet on a trip,

and we begin to live together.

At that time, you become ill and die alone and lonely.

But you are so vindictive that you appear to me as a ghost.

Then I'll have sex with you just once.

You've had sex with ghosts before, haven't you?

I can touch you and you can touch me.

You will be satisfied.

And then...

I strangle you and kill you.

You will go to hell.

You will suffer at the bottom of an endless sea of blood for ever and ever.

But don't worry,

I'll be there soon.

I will be there for you,

just as you were here for me.

That's my forgiveness.

Understand?

I have one more sad news for you, Dad.

You've always wondered about the events that brought you back here?

I'll kill you.

I'll kill you...!

Shut up. Just die.

First of all, congratulations on the full album!

Thank you.

How do you feel about all the attention you have received―

in such a short period of time?

I am honestly happy.

It has been my dream since I was in school. And now it has finally taken shape.

How did you come up with these unique motifs or lyrical worldviews?

This is a very personal story, I'm afraid, but―

I lost my girlfriend a year ago.

That experience had a great impact on my feelings and my creative process.

Someone I thought would be with me forever and ever,

suddenly died one day in a car accident.

I was shocked in my own way.

But then, I felt her presence near me for a while...

You mean ghost?

Yes, that kind of thing.

But one thing led to another,

and I stopped feeling any sign of her at all.

What is the thing?

I'd rather not say.

But, right now, it's terrifying.

I thought I would forget her face and voice.

People say that we die twice, and I truly fear that second death.

Ah, I wish I had taken more photos and videos of her.

I think about it now, in hindsight.

I can certainly get that kind of loss and fear from the impression of songs.

May I ask you about your plans for the future?

I have two things to do, one is music.

I've already satisfied this one to some extent this time.

With this full album?

That's right.

I have a sense that I have created something good,

and that it will reach a certain number of people.

So what is the other?

It's very private.

But...

I'm sure it will be soon.

I'm going to stay over.

Oh, have a good time.

Whose house is it again?

It's Yurie's place.

If anything, call me right away.

Sure thing.

Kana,

you look happy these days.

Well, sort of. I'll see you later!

See you later!

Could it be the Pizza Man there?

Yeah,

long time no see.

It's been a while.

How have you been?

Well, you know.

By the way, congratulations on the full album release.

I've been listening to it every day lately.

The intro of the first song is just irresistible.

And that part where the noise intensifies just before the chorus―

is incredibly emotional.

You're talking in front of the author himself.

Thanks for listening.

You're welcome.

Did I play...

with five fingers?

Yes, my anticipation was worth it.

I'm here to kill you.

Kengo,

close your eyes.

Imagine her.