Akki Kodomo
“They call her Akki Kodomo, for demon child. It is said that she was killed a long time ago, and will murder any who come into her house until she has revenge.”
Bara giggled. “Do you believe everything you hear, Ejiki?”
“If you’re scared, we can go home.” Ejiki said.
“No,” Bara said, “I’m ready to prove this rumor false once and for all. If you want to, you can go. I’m prepared to go alone.”
Ejiki wrapped his arms around her, “I’m going.” He said seriously. Bara nodded and together, they walked to the house.
The old, iron door creaked open. The two walked in, and the door slammed behind them. They jumped, and Bara turned around. “Tasteful joke, Ejiki,” she muttered, her voice shaking, “I’m staying.”
“It wasn’t me.” Ejiki said earnestly.
“I’m sure.”
She marched up the creaky stairs, Ejiki close behind her. They walked down a narrow hallway until they came to a halt at a plain looking wooded door. A sign was on it, in childish writing. Youma Otome’s Room. Keep out!
“So Youma was her name?” Bara asked curiously.
“It would appear.” Ejiki said tonelessly.
Bara grasped the doorknob, and then yanked her hand away with a cry, “It’s hot!”
Ejiki slowly reached his hand toward the doorknob, hen cautiously gripped it. “It feels normal to me,” he said playfully, “Are you sure you’re not making excuses?”
“Just open the door.” She muttered, rubbing her hand. Ejiki opened the door and they cautiously entered the room.
The room had pale pink walls, with one window draped with purple curtains. The room was empty, and the widow was open, causing the curtains to move. Bara shivered then moved to shut the window. Pulling it closed, she said, “See, there’s no one-“
The door slammed shut, and Bara whirled around, expecting to see Ejiki with a playful smile on his face. Instead, she saw Ejiki in the far corner of the room, staring wide-eyed at the door.
By the door there was a little girl. Black hair covered her eyes, and there was a grin on her face.
“W-What are you d-doing here?” Bara asked.
“I’m gonna get you.” The little girl said in a sweet voice. Bara shivered.
“Who are-“
The little girl began to hum an unfamiliar tune. As she did, her eyes began to glow red under her bangs. She took a step toward the two.
“Stay away from us!” Ejiki warned. The girl kept humming the strange tune.
There was only time for two short screams. The walls were suddenly splattered with a brilliant scarlet.
Then the room was empty except for two bodies dripping red on the floor.
