I was out shopping over the weekend, and I couldn't help but notice that fall has all but officially begun. The weather is cooler, and the summertime humidity seems to be breaking. More importantly, however, early signs of the Halloween season are popping up in shops and department stores.

Maybe it's just me, but it seems to come earlier every year. While I'm happy retailers aren't already playing Christmas jingles, I can't help but wonder how Halloween parties and trick-or-treating will play out during the coronavirus outbreak. At least everyone will be wearing a mask.

Nevertheless, the experience put me in the mood for some scary stories. A horror aficionado, frightening tales and suspenseful movies are by far my favorite part of the holiday.

That said, manga artist neko neko (neko_to_kosodate) recently published a piece on her Instagram feed. The story recalls a jarring situation that the author experienced as a child. Enjoy!

Reading the story, you can't help but wonder what Maru saw. An intruder? A ghost? Was there really something lurking in the shadows, or was the dutiful dog just reacting to her owner's unease over being in the creepy and dimly lit tatami room?

Readers were impressed by Maru’s resolve noting how brave it was of her to protect her family members. Indeed, neko neko remembers the pup fondly and holds nothing but gratitude in her heart for all she did.

If you liked this manga, you can find more like it on neko neko’s Instagram page. Check it out!