Chapter 3: Reason for not Running

Wh-What is that monster?

A Hollow. I hope you're ready.

I feel it. I feel something...

...that reeks with the stench of a super dangerous spirit!

Now I understand! You're that other spirit's evil lord, and you've come here seeking vengeance!

Nice try, jackass.

Roooooaaarrrr!

Here it comes!

You should run, Kan-

Run, boy!

Come on, you bad spirit!

Don Kanonji, the premier spiritualist of the century, is ready!

What are you doing?!

Kid, why didn't you run?

Hey, look. You're the one who should be running!

Huh? Me, run? What are you saying?

Roooooaaarrrr!!!

Let's go!

Urg, ehh, ahhhh?!

Wait! Why are we running away, kid?!

Because I heard some idiot say we should run!

I know, but I was talking about you, kid! Not me! Kanonji runs from no one!

All right, can you explain this one to me? Why should I run away and you stay behind to fight?

Well, I... I have to stay because...

...because after all, I'm the hero.

Huh?!

Listen, little man. Do you have any idea the ratings my show pulls in for the network?

What the hell do I care?

I'll tell you why you should! I've got 25%! One in every four households is watching my show!

*Sigh*

And many of those viewers are children.

Hm?

Those children watch my adventures, and their hearts are inspired. They see me stand up to evil spirits, and learn what true courage is.

So, don'tcha get it? With all those kids out there watching my show, running isn't an option. Understand?

Don Kanonji, you're right.

You bet I am. Now, let's get out there and crush that monster.

Think, you idiot! You can't do that! What if the audience gets mixed up in it?!

You said you were a hero. Don't you think it's a hero's job to protect your fans too?

That thing is going after people with high levels of spirit energy, like you and me!

There's no question it's gonna come after us, but we need to fight it in here, so no one in the audience will get hurt!

Kid...

...I am amazed. For you to have thought things through like that in the heat of battle.