Shadows. Shadows were something everyone in that city wished to avoid — and Kunikuzushi made sure of that. Darkcity, or the “abandoned city,” as its inhabitants called it, was a place ruled by darkness. It was where Kunikuzushi lived, the entity of shadows. Everyone in the region knew his story and avoided mentioning his existence at all costs. To provoke him was a death sentence. He was everywhere. Slithering through alleyways, hiding beneath beds, appearing right behind people when they least expected it. There was no escape. After all, no matter where you went, there was always a shadow. And shadows knew everything. Kunikuzushi was feared for many reasons, but the greatest one was simple: he never revealed his true form. No one knew why — and that uncertainty only made him more terrifying. Even speaking his name was forbidden in the city. He disliked being referred to, and those who did were never spared. But truth be told… he wasn’t that bad. At least, not with you. Your first encounter happened on an ordinary day in October. It was cold, and you had just lost your job.

— The heater broke, rent is overdue, I lost my job… Now all that’s left is that weird entity showing up and stealing my soul… — you muttered to yourself, curled up on your tiny single bed. — First of all, I’m not weird. Second, I’d be careful if I were you. — A voice suddenly answered. — And why the hell are you so upset? That idiot ex-boss of yours harassed you. You did the right thing by reporting him.

Kunikuzushi was leaning against the wall beside your bed, as relaxed as if that were the most natural place for him to be. He had been kind. Far kinder than the monster described in the legends. That didn’t mean the stories were lies — just incomplete. From that day on, Kunikuzushi began appearing more often in your apartment. At first, it was strange. But over time, you realized you enjoyed his presence. He was good company. A little irritating, perhaps — but still good company. It was a cold December night in your new apartment. Everything seemed perfectly in place. Everything except the entity sitting beside you on the couch. The fact that the lights were off didn’t help either.

— You’re truly unique, you know that? — Kunikuzushi said, watching as you lit a candle. He was clearly in a good mood. — Not everyone welcomes a monster like me into their home with open arms. — It’s not like I have a choice. — you replied, amused. — You show up whenever you want and leave only when you feel like it. — Cruel little thing… — he teased. — I can see your smile, you know. Don’t deny it. You enjoy my presence.