The train station buzzed with activity as Milo and John stood on the platform, waiting for their train to China. The distant rumble of an approaching train grew louder, and soon, the sleek locomotive pulled into the station with a hiss of steam.
As they settled into their seats, John turned to Milo, curiosity evident in his eyes. "Hey Milo, by the way, who sent that letter? What was the name on it?"
Milo glanced out the window, watching the scenery blur as the train began to move. "There was no name on it."
John's eyebrows shot up. "What? No name? Then why are we going there?"
Milo leaned back, a slight smirk on his face. "To help them."
John chuckled, nudging Milo playfully. "Or for the money?"
Milo shrugged. "You could say that. The letter mentioned that if we manage to eliminate the spirit, we'll receive a substantial reward. Let's see who this entity is."
---
After a long journey, the train finally arrived in China. Stepping onto the platform, John looked around, taking in the vibrant surroundings. "Wow, what a traditional and beautiful city. I love this place. You're right, Milo. Why don't we grab something to eat first?"
They made their way to an old Chinese shop and took a seat. Milo engaged in a conversation with the elderly owner in fluent Chinese, leaving John surprised.
"You know Chinese?" John asked.
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Milo nodded. "Yeah."
"So, what did you say to him?"
"I just ordered some food."
After they finished their meal, the owner approached them. "Did you enjoy the food?"
Milo smiled. "Yes, it was delicious."
The owner then inquired, "Are you heading to Fushiro town?"
Milo's eyes narrowed slightly. "Yes."
The owner's expression turned serious. "That's an abandoned town. If you wish to go there, you'll need to head to the countryside west of the city. From there, you can reach the town. As far as I remember, very few people live there now."
They paid for their meal and stepped out of the shop. John looked at Milo, concern evident in his voice. "If that town is abandoned, why are we going there?"
Milo replied, "Maybe the few people who still reside there are the ones who called us."
John sighed. "Okay, whatever. But how will we know exactly where to go?"
Just then, the old man called out to them from behind. "Wait! Let me tell you, about 600 meters from here, there's a shop. The owner of that shop can take you to the town for some money. Or you can go on your own, but it's hard to find the way."
Milo nodded in gratitude. "Thank you."
Turning to John, he said, "Let's seek some guidance."
---
As they approached the shop, a young man stood outside, adjusting some goods on display. He looked up and greeted them with a warm smile.
"Hello! Looking for something?"
Milo stepped forward. "We're looking for someone who can guide us to Fushiro town."
The young man's eyes widened slightly. "Fushiro? That's quite a place. Not many go there these days."
John interjected, "We heard you might be able to help."
The young man nodded. "I can take you there, for a price."
Milo extended his hand. "I'm Milo, and this is John."
The young man shook his hand firmly. "Nice to meet you. I'm Li Wei."
---
Li Wei leaned against the wooden counter, arms crossed, observing Milo and John with a curious expression.
"So, you're planning to head to Fushiro town?" Li inquired. "Not many choose to go there. What's your reason?"
John glanced at Milo before responding, "We're exorcists. We deal with spirits and entities."
Li's eyes widened slightly. "Ghost hunters, huh?"
Milo nodded. "You could say that."
Li hesitated for a moment, then said, "So, you're here for the investigation?"
Milo furrowed his brows. "Investigation? What investigation?"
Li sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "A young man named Chin Wo went to visit his parents in that town. Later, his body was found near the lake that connects to Fushiro. It was... mutilated. No eyes, no tongue. Many believe it's the work of a vengeful spirit."
John's face paled. "That's horrifying. I don't want to end up like that. I'm still a virgin!"
Milo shot him a sharp look. "Enough, John."
Turning back
to Li, Milo's eyes gleamed with determination. "This just got a lot more interesting."
---