Waking up as a Lesser Spirit felt… underwhelming.
No dramatic power surge.
No glowing aura.
Just me.
Floating.
Still dead.
---
> Status: Lesser Spirit (Evolving)
Spirit Core: Stable (Low Grade)
"…That's it?"
> [Clarification: Expectation unrealistic.]
"Wow. Thanks."
The system ignored me.
---
The watch no longer pulled at me.
Instead, I felt something inside.
A steady pulse.
My core.
It wasn't strong—but it was mine.
---
> [New Function Unlocked: Skill System]
Oh?
Now we're talking.
---
A blue window opened.
> [Skill Acquired – Passive]
Name: Emotional Resonance (Lv.1)
Effect:
• Sense strong emotions within range
• Gain minor spirit energy from emotional interactions
Note: Negative emotions provide higher yield
"…So I get stronger from feelings?"
> [Correction: From unresolved emotions.]
"That's worse."
---
I tested it.
Focused.
The store lit up—not visually, but emotionally.
Loneliness behind the counter.
Stress from passing customers.
Regret clinging to the watch.
"…This city needs therapy."
> [Agreement: High.]
---
Ethan arrived for his shift.
He stopped when he saw the watch.
"…Feels lighter."
He smiled faintly.
That small reaction sent a pulse into my core.
> Spirit Energy Gained: +Minor
"…Huh. It works."
Helping people made me stronger.
Who would've thought.
---
> [Warning: Over-attachment may limit growth.]
"So I shouldn't become a therapy ghost full-time."
> [Recommendation: Correct.]
---
I drifted higher.
Testing movement.
No leash.
No anchor radius.
Freedom.
"…I can finally leave."
---
But as I passed through the wall—
I felt it.
Something watching from afar.
Cold.
Patient.
---
> [Threat Level: Unknown]
> [Observation: Hunter network expanding.]
So the peace wouldn't last.
Of course it wouldn't.
---
I hovered above the street.
Neon lights below.
Dark sky above.
"…Alright."
"If I'm going to live again," I murmured,
"then I'll do it my way."
---
> [Path of Return: Ongoing.]
---