Mysterious Awakening

Chapter 118: The Red Candle

Miles gazed quizzically at the gleaming, rectangular golden box that sat on the table. The shimmering container attracted his attention, and with a furrowed brow, he pondered, What is this?

Just as he questioned the mysterious boxs contents, James, accompanied by Build and Sun, walked back over. They had come back because the price previously quoted for a certain transaction had been exorbitantly high, so much so that it seemed laughable. Recognizing the need for direct intervention, James decided to personally step in and negotiate the terms. Miles couldnt help but feel this was the opportunity he had been waiting for.

Opening the box with a flourish, James started, This is a groundbreaking innovation from my laboratory. He paused momentarily before continuing, I genuinely believe this will be invaluable to you, especially when you face otherworldly phenomena. In exchange for Frank, this is my offering. Trust me, you wont feel shortchanged.

Miles leaned over to catch a glimpse of the boxs contents, expecting some sort of priceless artifact. But to his astonishment, nestled within the golden container was but a simple candle. This wasnt just any candle, though. Its intense, deep red shade looked as though it had been crafted from the essence of fresh blood.

Recognizing Miless surprise, James confirmed, Yes, its a red candle.

Miless voice dripped with skepticism. A candle? Are you seriously suggesting that this mundane object is a worthy trade for Frank? At a glance, it looks like its worth mere pennies.

Undeterred, James explained, This is no ordinary candle. Its intrinsic value is akin to possessing the strength of five spirits. As of now, only my laboratory has the technology and expertise to produce such a marvel. Its scarcity means its not available in the open market, regardless of how wealthy one might be. Ive christened it the ghost candle.

Piqued by the unusual name, Miles pressed on, Thats a captivating name, but what makes it so special?

On the surface, the candle appeared unremarkable. But given Jamess insistence on its value, Miles was eager to fathom its deeper significance.

James clarified, The utility of the ghost candle is straightforward. When lit, as long as its flame remains undisturbed, it promises to shield anyone enveloped by its light from malevolent apparitions.

For a moment, Miles seemed taken aback. That sounds like pure fantasy.

James acknowledged the doubt in Miless voice and said, Your skepticism is expected since this is your initial interaction with the ghost candle. I wont dally with extensive details, but know this: the candle has been deployed in three major paranormal disturbances, and each time, its efficacy was undeniable. If my word isnt enough, then Im afraid theres little more I can offer. This is the pinnacle of what I can provide.

With that, Miles found himself in deep contemplation, staring at the glowing red candle. The promise of such a powerful tool was tantalizing.

Was it truly possible for a candle, no matter how unique, to offer protection from vengeful spirits? And while James was known for his scientific prowess, he wasnt a sorcerer. Could such an artifact truly originate from a lab?

If, by some chance, Jamess claims about the ghost candles powers were accurate, then the possibilities were staggering. What could the future hold with such an item in ones possession?

James detailed the capabilities of the unique item, saying, Once ignited, the ghost candle offers its protection so long as its flame remains untouched. The person within its sphere of influence is assured absolute protection from harm.

The gravity of Jamess statement was not lost on Miles. To him, this seemed like a miraculous safeguard, potentially life-saving for anyone plagued by hostile supernatural entities.

His skepticism evident, Miles probed, Are you certain about its effectiveness? Have you rigorously tested this?

With unwavering confidence, James responded, Through extensive trials, weve found that even spirits of the highest menace, which we classify as A grade level, are rendered powerless within the range of the ghost candles light. The protection remains in effect until the flame goes out. If, after using it, you find my claims to be false, you have every right to seek retribution. I stand firmly by the fruits of my scientific endeavors.

Miless gaze briefly shifted to the decapitated head of Frank resting nearby and then back to the ghost candle. Weighing the situation, he deduced that James wouldnt risk lying at such a pivotal juncture. The ghost candle must indeed possess the remarkable capabilities that had been described.

Eager to know more, Miles asked, How long can one expect a single ghost candle to burn?

James answered cautiously, Its not easy to provide an exact duration. The candles burning rate is influenced by the intensity of the supernatural threat nearby. The greater the malevolence of the spirit, the quicker the candle consumes itself. But, as a baseline, you can expect at least thirty minutes of protection.

Raising an eyebrow, Miles countered, Half an hour seems rather brief for such a unique item. Would you consider providing an additional one?

James clarified, Producing the ghost candle isnt simple. The one I possess is specifically reserved for my personal use. If you desire an extra, it would necessitate a special request. I dont hold the power to casually distribute them. And mere association with HQ doesnt guarantee access. Youd need a significant promotion. For perspective, even Build, standing right here, doesnt possess the required clearance.

Build, who had been silently observing the exchange, scratched his nose in slight discomfort. He hadnt been privy to information about the ghost candle, let alone the procedure to acquire it.

After some reflection, Miles finally said, Very well, weve reached an agreement. Take Frank.

Proceed with Frank to the laboratory. From this point forward, Manager Sun will be in charge of organizational matters. Ensure that trivialities dont reach me, James directed his security detail.

Without delay, the team, equipped with a body bag containing Franks severed head, swiftly exited the premises, with Captain June overseeing their movements.

Pausing to reflect, Miles mused aloud, A ghost candle

He scrutinized the crimson-hued candle briefly, then secured it for safekeeping. If it truly held the power James claimed, it would be an invaluable asset when confronting formidable supernatural adversaries.

Suddenly, an afterthought struck him, and he exclaimed, Hold on! My bags worth a whopping 20 million But I suppose its a bit late to bring that up now.

The roar of the transport vehicles indicated that James and his team were already on their way, leaving behind a slightly regretful Miles without his valuable bag.

With a wry grin stretching across his face, Build began, Miles, you have a knack for diving headfirst into complicated situations. Betraying a fellow comrade, no matter the scenario, treads on murky ethical grounds.

Expanding on his point, Build added, Even if you disregard the broader implications, its vital to cultivate and maintain positive relationships with your colleagues. Its not just about being altruistic its also strategically wise. Remember, the world is round, and youll inevitably encounter them again.

Miles, not one to be easily chastised, countered, In a world rife with deceit and backstabbing, my approach is relatively tame. While some might engage in covert plots against their allies, my recent maneuvers have been open and transparent almost divine-like in their benevolence.

Builds face contorted in a mix of amusement and disbelief, searching for the right words. Lets hope your divine benevolence doesnt run rampant, he teased, Otherwise, Ill have a tough time defending your actions to our superiors. Do it for old times sake, will you?

With a sly smirk, Miles replied, Of course. But who couldve predicted that Frank would become such a valuable asset? I mean, trading him for an artifact as unique as the ghost candle? That was an unexpected jackpot.

He continued, musing, For me, the value of Frank pales in comparison to the ghost candle. Sure, capturing a ghost might fatten my wallet a bit, but no amount of wealth can shield me from supernatural threats like the ghost candle can. Its a no-brainer where the true value lies.

Shifting gears, Build asked, Have you thought about joining HQ and starting your assessment soon? I can facilitate the application process for you once Im back.

Miles took a moment before responding, Its perhaps best to hold off for now. I want to thoroughly understand Jamess methodology for reviving malevolent entities. You wouldnt want a ghost tamer whos on borrowed time, right? And since Spear City recently gained a new City Head, I think the city is in good hands for now. Joining HQ might be overkill. Im a local at heart and dont feel the urge to explore unknown terrains just yet.

Miles had managed to tame two ghosts, but he chose to keep the specifics of his techniques, especially the use of the human skin parchment, from Build. If word about the parchment got out, it could pique Jamess curiosity, maybe even prompting a shift in his title to Professor Skin. Keeping the parchments existence under wraps was paramount for Miles.

Build, sensing some of Miless reservations, nodded. I see where youre coming from. Now that youve brokered a deal, ensuring the successful revival of the second ghost is indeed paramount. The risks are considerable, and Im sure youre well aware. But let me be clear, I genuinely hope you navigate these challenges safely.

He then added somberly, You should know that the laboratorys procedures are notoriously treacherous. Failure rates are shockingly high with a mortality rate that could reach up to 80%.

The gravity of Builds words hit Miles. I hope for the best too, he murmured. Your guidance and support have been invaluable, Captain Build. I trust youll have my back in the future challenges as well.

With a genuine warmth lighting up his face, Build replied, Always here to help. Its what I do.

Build, being deeply entrenched in the intricacies of their world, was well aware of the evolving relationship between HQ and Miles. Initially, joining HQ seemed to be a purely strategic choice for Miles, hoping to tap into its vast resources to further his experiments on prolonging the lives of malevolent spirits.

But the situation had shifted.

Given the current turn of events, Miles found himself in a relatively advantageous position, allowing him the luxury of time to contemplate his next move. Committing to HQ now would mean immersing himself headlong into a continuous stream of supernatural challenges. This constant exposure was somewhat misaligned with Miless preference for selective engagements that offered tangible rewards.

Seeking clarity on one of his pressing queries, Miles asked, Speaking of the past, once I become a part of HQ, all my previous involvements in handling supernatural cases will be recognized and credited, wont they?

Build affirmed with a nod, Without a doubt. Your interventions in the Wealth Mall and the mysterious occurrences at Yellow Hill Village will be acknowledged and documented in your official records.

Miless eyes gleamed with ambition. Good to know. I have my sights set high. Once Im part of HQ, I dont intend to be a mere pawn. I want to move up the hierarchy.

He recalled his earlier interactions with James, which hinted at a structured ranking system within HQ. Ghost tamers were categorized and accorded privileges based on their achievements and ranks. Ascending even a couple of levels could unlock invaluable resources, much like the ghost candle. And beyond the allure of these tangible assets, a higher rank would inevitably bestow more authority, influence, and respect within the organization.