I stared blankly at the black-and-white Clock Tower in the sky. I still remember the first time I played hide-and-seek—because I didn’t understand the rules, the other kids scolded me. I sat on the edge of the rooftop, quietly watching everything below.
It’s clear now. Back then, when it came to hide-and-seek, I was always watching from a distance, wanting to join in. But because of that ghost, and all the spirits I saw before I understood things, I could never truly fit in with the crowd.
I overlooked the simplest thing, only wanting to find Coexistence as quickly as possible. There are still more than ten hours left—this isn’t the time for a final showdown. Ghosts can only unleash their full power at night.
Suddenly, I stood up. I think I’m starting to understand why Coexistence wants to play hide-and-seek with me.
Once again, I returned to that little girl’s home, and I looked at her seriously.
"Little sister, can you tell me any tricks for hide-and-seek? Uncle is on the hiding side now."
"Hey, that’s easy! Since your hide-and-seek covers all the neighborhoods, do you know this place well? You have to be familiar with the area, think about where the ghosts will come to find you, and where you’ll hide. When I play with my friends, I always get to know the place really well before the game starts."
I nodded and left the little girl’s home. Time sped up again, but now I was full of confidence. I began darting through the streets, relying on my ability to phase through walls.
This place, just like where the ghosts live, has only six streets. The buildings aren’t orderly, but the streets are neat. I haven’t seen Coexistence—he’s probably also familiarizing himself with the area. I finally understood why he wandered around when he first arrived; he must have asked the locals about the layout too.
There are six hours left until nightfall. I need to get familiar with every part of these streets as quickly as possible.