Oh My Ghost! | Ghost Hunt

Chapter 7: File 1- Invisible Joker Part 7

Everyone but Shibuya-san, Lin-san, and her uncle were in shock. 

"Why is this here?" Kana couldn't help but ask while pointing at it.

On the coffee table in front of them was a small tanuki statue that her Uncle Koji got for her. It was a realistic looking tanuki wearing a straw hat. Holding in both hands was a paper lantern and a clay water jar. It was a cute gift she received.

"Hisakawa-san, you did say you were out that night on the 16th sending off your brother correct?"

"Yes that's correct."

"That also was the night the first poltergeist occurred," Shibuya-san states as everyone was starting to realize what he's going to say. "I believe that Yamamoto-san must have given Hashimoto-san a haunted statue."

"That actually makes sense," Bou-san says adding on. "In Japanese folklore, tanukis have a reputation for magic and mischief. These yokais rarely cause serious harm to humans, but they do cause a lot of pranks and surprises."

"It must be why all their items were being switched around like a game," Ayako says crossing her arms.

"And Kana being targeted specifically as she was the one to receive the statue," Bou-san puts out.

"So are tanukis not evil?" Mai asks. 

"Not necessarily, they are more devious per say," Shibuya-san says. "Tanukis used to be praised as gods, like how foxes and snakes are. But after Buddhism spread in Japan, tanukis just now represent bumbling tricksters with laughable powers."

"So, you're saying all this hauntings are caused by that little statue?" Ami questions in disbelief.

"Yes," Shibuya-san nods. He turns to Kana's uncle. "Hisakawa-san, is it possible to get in contact with your brother to retrieve this? I don't believe an exorcism is needed as the yokai is contained in this statue."

"Yes I can, but I don't believe he will be able to retrieve it anytime soon since he recently just left for China for a case."

"I see. Hashimoto-san, if you don't mind, SPR can take this statue out of your hands until your uncle comes back to retrieve it. At least that will stop all the hauntings from occurring in this building," Shibuya-san offers.

"Please do! I guess my uncle accidentally gave it to me... hehe. Who knew he gave me something haunted." Kana decides to stand up and bow. "I'm sorry everyone!"

Uncle Haru also followed her actions. "Yes, I apologize for the inconvenience my older brother has caused. I will immediately notify him of the situation. Shibuya-san and everyone, thank you for solving this case. You guys are also welcome to stay for another night since it's late, and I hope you all are willing to stay for breakfast as well."

 "We would like that Hisakawa-san, thank you," Shibuya-san says. 

"Since you guys are done, did you want to hang out on the fifth floor?" Kana offers specifically to Mai, Bou-san, and Ayako. The three seemed like they really wanted to play in the entertainment room during the tour she gave them.

"Oh yes! Naru please!" Mai quickly turns to her boss clasping her hands. "I promise we'll wake up early to break down the equipment!"

"You should let them Shibuya-san. These kids here don't even bother to go up there anymore. That floor is basically collecting dust," Uncle Haru suggests. He turns to the three, "I can also make you guys some midnight snacks as well!"

"Yes please!" Bou-san shouts. 

Now it was Shibuya-san's turn to reply. "... I guess I'll allow it. I do expect the equipment to be packed and placed in the van after breakfast though."