The Kosuzu Motoori Case File
Too Many Magicians!
Kosuzu
Welcome!
Hello!
Kosuzu
Oh! PLAYER! Are you here to return those books?
Kosuzu
Thanks for saving me the effort of going to pick them up myself... Huh? You brought Reimu's books back too?!
Kosuzu
They must've been awfully heavy...
I figured I might as well.
Reimu says she wants to read more of the story!
Kosuzu
Say no more! I'll get the sequels for you and Reimu in a jiffy!
Kosuzu
Just gimme a sec! I'm getting some picture books ready for the kids in the village...
Sure thing!
Village Girl
Kosuzu!
Kosuzu
Hi there! I've been waiting for you! Here's the book you asked me for―
Akyuu
Kosuzu! Bad news! Something terrible has happened!
Kosuzu
Whoa! Don't scare me like that! I thought I already collected all the books from your place.
Kosuzu
Did you need something else from me, Akyuu?
Akyuu
My treasured... My treasured book is gone! ...Oh, PLAYER. I didn't see you there. Hello.
Hi! ...Wait, what?
You've lost a book?!
Akyuu
Yes... My untarnished reputation is now ruined...
Kosuzu
It's not like you to lose a book, Akyuu! So what's this missing tome exactly?
Akyuu
One that's really important to me... No! Important to all of Gensokyo!
Village Girl
Kosuzu! Kosuzu! This book was really interesting! Do you have more like it?
Village Girl
One won't be enough! I'll finish it too fast!
Kosuzu
Hmm... Yeah, I'm sure I had some nice picture books in the back! Lemme check for you!
Akyuu
That book includes all the information I compiled for the Gensokyo Chronicle!
Akyuu
And so I... *mumble* *mumble*
Village Girl
Did you find any?!
Kosuzu
Sorry... They're out on loan till tomorrow!
Akyuu
And that's why... *mumble* *mumble*
Village Girl
Aw... I'll come pick them up tomorrow, then!
Kosuzu
I'll hold on to them for you!
Village Girl
You will?! Thanks, Kosuzu!
Akyuu
I remember everything that was recorded inside, so I can recreate it... but it would take a lot of time and effort.
Akyuu
It's all very strange... It's not allowed to leave the premises. And it couldn't have just disappeared...
Village Girl
Oh, right. Here! I'm returning this book! It was super fun, just like you said it would be!
Kosuzu
Told you! And guess what? Its sequel will soon be available at Suzunaan!
Village Girl
Really?! Cool! Tell me when it arrives!
Kosuzu
Sure thing! Come by anytime!
Village Girl
Yaaay! Bye then, Kosuzu! See you tomorrow!
Village Girl
Goodbye to you too, miss!
Akyuu
...Huh? Oh, bye bye!
See you next time!
Kosuzu
Gotta say, she has the makings of a future regular! Good for her! Keep it up, girl!
Akyuu
Looks like I caught you at a bad time. Sorry.
Kosuzu
Oh no, not at all! I heard what you said... for the most part.
Akyuu
...Really?
Kosuzu
Of course! Um... You lost a precious book, right?
Akyuu
Well... Yes...
Akyuu
Goodness! What if one of the servants at home finds out? Or worse yet, what if it falls into the wrong hands?!
Kosuzu
That would... not be good. Hmmmm...
Kosuzu
...Ah! I know just the person to ask for help!
Akyuu
You do? Is there someone who specializes in situations like this...?
Kosuzu
Of course! Follow me!
Could I go with you too?
I heard what happened, so I want to help!
Akyuu
I'd greatly appreciate it. I don't know if the two of us can handle this unforeseen situation alone.
Kosuzu
Two heads are better than one! And three are even better still!
Akyuu
Really, Kosuzu...? But you are right. The more of us, the better.
Akyuu
We would greatly appreciate your help, PLAYER!
I'll do whatever I can!
Kosuzu
All right! My shift's over, so let's roll!
This is... Marisa's house!
Akyuu
I was wondering where you were headed with this miasma-repelling book, but now I understand...
Akyuu
I was positive you'd take us to the Hakurei shrine maiden though.
Kosuzu
I did think about it... But PLAYER said Reimu's been busy.
Kosuzu
And I figured Marisa would have a lot of free time on her hands!
Kosuzu
Plus, a case of a rare book gone missing will be way too interesting for her to pass up!
Akyuu
*sigh* That's not very nice of you... And this isn't some big "case," you know.
Marisa
Oh, hey! It's Kosuzu, Akyuu, and PLAYER! What're you all doing in front of my house?
Marisa
Huh?! This presence...
Marisa
Hey! You guys better run for your lives!
Kosuzu & Akyuu
What...?
??? & ???
MA-RI-SA!!! Today of all days, I won't let it slide!
Kosuzu & Akyuu
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaahhh!
Alice
Phew, that was close. Good thing I noticed you just in time and managed to change the trajectory of my bullets.
Alice
Have you come to see Marisa?
Alice
Sorry! I didn't mean to shoot at you... But you know how it is! Could you just wait a bit?
Patchouli
Give me back the books you stole. Comply... and you'll come out of this only slightly scorched.
Marisa
Hey, you should listen to people when they speak to you. I told you, like, a zillion times already. I'm not stealing―
Marisa
―I'm just borrowing them until I die!
Patchouli
I never once said you could borrow them. And all the books you take happen to be unique. Every. Single. Time!
Alice
And you never even came to today's tea party! Do you know how long you kept us waiting?!
Marisa
Oh right, the tea party... My bad!
Patchouli
*sigh* What about you? Have you come to reclaim some pilfered item as well?
Kosuzu
No... We're here for another reason.
Akyuu
Actually... We want to ask for Marisa's help in finding something.
Marisa
Oh-ho... So Akyuu, also known as Gumonji, has lost something...
Marisa
I smell something afoot here! Seems like fun! Let's hear it then! I didn't have anything better to do anyway!
Akyuu
Wow... It's just as you said, Kosuzu.
Kosuzu
Ahahaha!
Akyuu
―And that's what happened. So, I'd like you to find my precious book.
Marisa
Gotcha... You're in trouble.
Marisa
And to get you out of said predicament, we need to find this beloved book of yours, right?
Akyuu
Well, you could say that...
Marisa
Worry not! The blood of detectives runs in my veins! You've come to the right person!
Alice
When did you change professions...?
Patchouli
I'm sure it's forbidden by a certain ten precepts, Magician.
Marisa
Oh, don't be so nitpicky!
Akyuu
Fine. I don't think I can leave this to Miss Marisa alone. Kosuzu, PLAYER, let's go to Hakurei Shrine!
Marisa
Whoa, whoa, hold on now.
Marisa
If you put me on this case... you'll get two super skilled assistants for absolutely no extra cost!
Marisa
Got it, Akyuu? Numbers are key when it comes to searches! You can't go wrong with the Kirisame Magic Shop!
Marisa
If you go to Reimu, the best you're gonna get is Aunn's help. Which makes two. I'm offering you three! It's a no-brainer!
Akyuu
Well, the prospect of having three more pairs of hands to call upon is indeed tantalizing...
Alice
Well, I'll be... So Marisa knows her stuff after all. And I had no idea she could offer more hands on deck.
Patchouli
Your helpers must have weird tastes... I never would have thought someone might be willing to work with you.
Marisa
Well, I AM talking about the usual two!
(Oh no, she can't mean...)
Alice & Patchouli
Huh...? Hmmmm...?
Marisa
They just so happened to help resolve a previous incident and are an all-around trustworthy pair!
Marisa
Yep, there's no one more reliable than the two of you... Alice! Patchouli!
Alice & Patchouli
...What?!
Kosuzu's First License?
Marisa
WOW! I love it!
Marisa
We'll blend right in at the village and Akyuu's in these outfits! What do you guys think? We're just like real detectives!
Alice
Well, I guess you look fine. I'm not sure this is how detectives really dress though.
Patchouli
I agree... A detective has to keep a cool head so as not to make any rash decisions.
Marisa
Whoa there, Patchouli! You're totally into this, huh? Could it be you have a secret thing for sleuths?
Patchouli
I-I don't know what you're talking about! I'm wearing this because I have no other choice.
Akyuu
Hush! Keep it down...!
Akyuu
What will we do if the servants find out? They might notice that we're looking for something!
Alice, Patchouli & Marisa
Sorry...
Akyuu
*sigh* By the way, how do you like those clothes?
Akyuu
Despite how they look, they're really quite comfortable, so this is how I dress on a daily basis.
Patchouli
Detectives in disguise... I see. So we're pretending to be Hieda apprentices?
Akyuu
Exactly. I told the servants that the Hieda clan has temporarily taken you all under our wing.
???
Count on Patchouli to deduce this much based on her wardrobe alone. Brilliant as ever.
Patchouli
Hehe, it was simple. These clothes are made of the same high-quality material as those worn by the Maidens of Miare.
Patchouli
And the Hieda are a prestigious family. Having a number of apprentices only proves their status... Huh?
Alice
If it isn't the gap youkai. Showing up in someone's house without an invitation... How ill-mannered of you.
Yukari
Oh my. I just came through the door and said hello. It's not my fault that none of you noticed.
Marisa & Akyuu
So you basically broke in, huh? Lady Yukari, that's called trespassing...
No way... It can't be... can it?
Kosuzu
Did you steal Akyuu's book?!
Yukari
How rude! And here I was driving off nosy fairies for you so they don't listen in on your conversation...
Alice
That's rich coming from you. You've been eavesdropping yourself!
Alice
So? How are you planning on making things more complicated than they need to be this time?
Yukari
Heehee. That... depends on Akyuu and Kosuzu.
Yukari
Akyuu, I don't mean to lecture you...
Yukari
...but what would you do if the one who stole your book was a wicked youkai?
Akyuu
Urk... I know I'm at fault. I have already considered that though, which is why I asked everyone here for help―
Yukari
So what would you do if Marisa was the culprit?
Marisa
Oh, I see... We can't rule out the possibility that I just couldn't help myself.
Akyuu
I-In that case... I'd go to Miss Reimu!
Yukari
And if Reimu turned out to be an accomplice? Or covered for the culprit?
Akyuu
I-If that happened, then... that would be really bad...
Yukari
Goodness! For someone who enjoys good mysteries, you sure are surprisingly clueless.
Akyuu
Wh-What do you mean?!
Yukari
The book you lost is incredibly important. You need to find it quickly. Every second counts.
Yukari
Youkai will probably cooperate with you in order to maintain the power balance here in Gensokyo.
Yukari
But don't count on their friendship. They're capricious beings that might cause chaos or simply disappear on you.
Yukari
But honestly, Akyuu, you should know about the mechanisms ruling Gensokyo much better than I do.
Akyuu
Yes, I know...
Akyuu
(That's why I didn't want the sage to find out!)
Yukari
Kosuzu, PLAYER. The two of you suspected that I stole the book, didn't you?
Yukari
You thought that it might be a youkai's doing... You should never forget that gut instinct of yours.
...I won't!
Kosuzu
Hehehe... Well, I don't know about the motive, but I thought it might've been a youkai, since they have the means.
Akyuu
I would handle this on my own, but if the culprit really is a youkai...
Akyuu
Which is why I asked PLAYER and the others to help me this time.
Yukari
And that's why I told you that it depends on you and Kosuzu.
Yukari
Akyuu, you know how the Spell Card Rules came into being, right?
Akyuu
Yes. They were originally rules for duels where contestants compete to show off the beauty of their techniques.
Akyuu
But we can't shoot bullets, much less use Spell Cards...
Yukari
Then let me grant the ability... to you and Kosuzu both!
Akyuu
What?! Can you even―
Kosuzu
You can do something like that?!
Yukari
Yes, think of it as an exam―or perhaps, a test run.
Yukari
Commotions of this scale, quarrels settled with battles of bullets, the number of humans capable of shooting bullets...
Yukari
All of this serves to maintain the power balance in Gensokyo.
Marisa
Huh? Is that your latest scheme? What can you possibly accomplish by letting them shoot bullets?
Kosuzu
Miss Yukari, did you make us a journal like PLAYER's, then?!
Yukari
No. You have to learn how to shoot bullets for yourselves.
Akyuu
But how...? Is that even possible?!
Yukari
Oh, I'm a sage, remember? It's not a problem for me. As long as you have this Spell Card Learner's License!
Kosuzu
Wooooow! This is amazing! I can become as cool as Reimu! I've always dreamed of this!
Akyuu
H-Huh? I had no idea such a thing even existed. But how do I actually shoot the bullets?
Yukari
No need to panic. I'll teach you.
Akyuu & Kosuzu
REALLY?!
Yukari
Let's begin by hitting your opponent with something. The first one to land a blow wins the match.
Yukari
It would be most efficient if you used something you're familiar with. All right. Try fighting me now as practice.
Akyuu
B-But...! This is too sudden. It's our first time after all!
Kosuzu
Righty-o! I'll give it my all!
Yukari
Heehee. It seems like you need to let your imagination run free, Akyuu. PLAYER, please support them.
Akyuu & Kosuzu
W-We did it!
Yukari
Not bad at all. And both of you used something you consider your forte.
Kosuzu
Yes! I tried using demon books and tools I thought might work... And the scroll my regular customer returned to me!
Akyuu
I used the brushes I always work with.
Akyuu
But it feels different to apply them to bullets or Spell Cards... There is still so much I don't know.
Akyuu
(I do know she's using us for her own research. I don't like it, but I need to swallow my pride for now.)
Yukari
It's always like this the first time around. Try to practice whenever you have the chance.
You two were amazing!
Kosuzu
Because we had you supporting us! Okie dokie! With this, we can begin the search! Right, Akyuu?!
Akyuu
Y-Yes... Of course.
Yukari
Then I will leave the rest to Marisa, Alice, and Patchouli. I wish you luck.
Alice
So in the end, we still have to do all the dirty work...
Alice
A Spell Card Learner's License... It's the first time I've heard of such nonsense.
Patchouli
Even the license itself doesn't carry much weight. All it signifies is that you publicly agree to the rules.
Marisa
Still, it's good that Akyuu and Kosuzu can defend themselves now! Fighting and protecting others at the same time is hard.
Marisa
Don't you worry! I'll teach you the innermost secrets of bullet battles!
Alice & Patchouli
DON'T! Everything will burn to ashes!
Marisa
Tsk...
Akyuu
Ahaha...
Kosuzu
We look forward to learning from you!
Maid at the Mansion?
Alice
So? Where did you put the book before you lost it?
Akyuu
Well, I believe I left it here... On the side of the table.
Got any ideas...?
Alice
No... We still know too little.
Alice
Marisa, Patchouli. Have you found anything?
Marisa
WOOOW! Now, THIS is a treasure chest! Just LOOK at these, Patchouli! This classic... It's the FIRST edition!
Patchouli
These manuscripts aren't copies... They're all originals! I'd love to see the library as well, if you'll let me!
Marisa
Next time I head to the Scarlet Devil Mansion's library, I'll pop by your place too, Akyuu!
Marisa
It's well-guarded, so it won't be easy to sneak in. But that's to be expected from a noble family.
Patchouli
Hey now! Don't you dare plan on traipsing into the Scarlet Devil Mansion uninvited.
Patchouli
(I need to have a serious talk with Meiling about what it means to do her job properly!)
Marisa
Oh, come on! Don't ruin it for me! ...Wow! This book is legendary!
Marisa
And, oh! This... Patchouli! Alice! It's incredible! Look―
Akyuu
Please! Be careful how you handle the books! And pipe down! Other people will hear you!
Marisa & Patchouli
S-Sorry...
Akyuu
Goodness... But I do understand your excitement.
Akyuu
All right. If you manage to resolve this, I'll give you access to part of the library.
Marisa
For real?! All right! Now I'm REALLY motivated!
Alice
Now that you mention it, we haven't spoken about our remuneration yet either. But that reward works for me too!
Patchouli
So, maybe we should start off by making sure it hasn't gotten lost somewhere among the books in your collection?
Patchouli
I'll go check Suzunaan with PLAYER.
Patchouli
We may find some clues there too...
Akyuu
Right... It would be more efficient if we simultaneously investigate the library here and gather information outside.
Patchouli and I will be heading out then!
Akyuu
OK. Thank you.
Marisa
All righty! And Alice and I will read through all the books in the Hieda residence!
Akyuu
The books are perfectly organized, so please try NOT to behave like bulls in a china shop!
Marisa
Haha... Sure, I'll see what I can do...
(Marisa, don't get carried away!)
See you all later!
Kosuzu
Whoa! That's terrible! Even I'd get mad if someone barged in and started rummaging through my collection!
Kosuzu
Ah well... I'm sure it'll be fine. Nothing's scarier than an angry Akyuu after all...
Patchouli
Though that would give Marisa her just deserts. Someone should put her in her place for once.
Patchouli
Although she probably won't show even a flicker of remorse. Just like Meiling.
Kosuzu
Oh, that reminds me! The maid of the Scarlet Devil Mansion came by a while ago.
Patchouli
Huh? Sakuya? What was she doing here?
Kosuzu
I didn't really ask...
Kosuzu
But she did say something about finding a rare book for her mistress. Apparently, you don't have it in your collection!
Kosuzu
She was looking at the shelves for a while, but then walked out looking disappointed...
Patchouli
A book we don't have in our library? Well, Remi does have an eye for odd things, so she is likely to seek such a thing out.
Kosuzu
...But Miss Patchouli! Isn't that super suspicious?!
Patchouli
Huh? What are you talking about?!
Kosuzu
She was acting normally, so I didn't realize it then, but the maid of the Scarlet Devil Mansion―Miss Sakuya...
Kosuzu
...is able to stop time, isn't she?
Patchouli
...I see. So what you're trying to say...
Patchouli
...is that Sakuya could easily enter the house of the Maiden of Miare, despite its strict guard, and commit a theft.
Kosuzu
I'm just talking possibilities...
Kosuzu
But Miss Sakuya often comes to the village, so no one would normally suspect her...
Patchouli
That's true. Sakuya has the means and is in a good position to do it. But I think she lacks a motive.
Patchouli
Actually, she's the last person I would suspect of breaking into someone else's house to steal something.
Kosuzu
Yeah, I get it... She's the head maid of the Scarlet Devil Mansion. Neatly dressed, well-mannered, and all that jazz.
Kosuzu
Usually, I would never suspect someone like her. But it might be different if her mistress gave her an order!
Kosuzu
You said it too. That Miss Remilia has a taste for the rare and is likely to look for the book!
Kosuzu
Miss Sakuya would listen to her mistress's orders even if it meant dirtying her hands, right?!
Patchouli
So, you're telling me that Sakuya would do whatever it takes to satisfy Remi's will.
Patchouli
And if Remi said she wanted to read a book that belongs to the Maiden of Miare...
Well, it's possible, at least in theory...
But would Remilia and Sakuya steal something...?
Patchouli
I agree with you. It's hard to believe. However, if Remi wishes to read a book...
Patchouli
Sakuya would just consider it part of doing whatever she can to fulfill Remi's wishes, rather than stealing.
Kosuzu
I think it'd be best to ask them directly! Let's head over to the Scarlet Devil Mansion, shall we?
Kosuzu
...This mansion sure has a unique atmosphere! It really feels like the abode of a vampire in some novel!
Remilia
Welcome back, Patchy... Hm? It's PLAYER and the Suzunaan girl. Welcome.
Sakuya
It is rare for you to bring guests, Lady Patchouli. Milady, I'll prepare tea so you all can have an enjoyable chat.
(They're not acting any different...)
(No suspicious behavior at all...)
Sakuya
Is something amiss, PLAYER? You've been staring at Lady Remilia and me for a while now.
Sakuya
Is there something on our faces?
Kosuzu
I'm sure that the Scarlet Devil Mansion's tea is delicious. But we're here for another reason, so please don't bother!
Kosuzu
Miss Sakuya... You came to my shop earlier today because you were looking for some rare book, right?
Sakuya
Is something wrong with that?
Patchouli
*sigh* Stop beating around the bush. I'll ask them straight out.
Patchouli
We're looking for a book the Maiden of Miare has lost. And we suspect you of being involved, Sakuya.
Sakuya
Wh-What...?! Why me?! You should be asking Marisa!
Patchouli
I'd like to believe in your innocence... But we have grounds to suspect you.
Remilia
I see... You're playing detective.
Remilia
So, will you believe us if we allay that suspicion of yours?
Remilia
You've built your theory on the fact that Sakuya was looking for a rare book.
Remilia
Furthermore... She visits the village often and has an ability that happens to be useful for thievery. Am I wrong?
You saw right through us.
All our deductions... In the blink of an eye!
Remilia
Heehee... It was too easy.
Patchouli
*sulk* Remi, it feels like you'd make a way better detective than us.
Remilia
Listen, Patchy. I do have the book Sakuya was looking for.
Remilia
But if you want to see it... you'll have to beat me in a battle of bullets. What do you say?
Patchouli
We have no leads right now. If this is going to help us find the truth, then I'll have to take you up on your offer.
Patchouli
We need to get to the bottom of this! So we can't back down, even if we are up against Remi!
Kosuzu
Sure thing! I'm in!
Remilia
Oh? So you can shoot bullets now? This must be Yukari's doing. I can't wait to see it.
Sakuya
...I'll go easy on you to prove that my hands are clean.
Kosuzu
And I won't hold back, because I need to know the truth!
Kosuzu
...Or so I'd like to say, but I don't want to make you mad. I'm a newbie to this bullet stuff and it's nerve-racking!
Patchouli
Don't fret. PLAYER and I will support you.
Kosuzu
Thanks, Miss Patchouli! And PLAYER too!
Kosuzu
Phew! I'm in one piece... But this still gives me the heebie-jeebies...
Remilia
Teehee... The Suzunaan girl and Patchy, with PLAYER in tow. You make a pretty good team.
Patchouli
I feel like you were just toying with us... Remi, were you holding back?
Remilia
Nothing of the sort. I can't afford to do that while fighting you and PLAYER.
Remilia
Plus... You suspected my dear maid. I wanted to clear her of that suspicion, no matter what it took.
Remilia
Now, it's time for me to keep my promise! This is the book I was looking for... Tada!
Patchouli
..."Magician Workouts for Dummies"?!
Sakuya
Books like these usually come from the outside world, but this is from another world. It took quite some effort to obtain.
Sakuya
This book was written by a magician like Lady Patchouli. It describes various exercises, from stretching to weight lifting.
Kosuzu
All this fuss for a w-workout guide?!
Patchouli
Remi... Sakuya...! You found this book for me!
Patchouli
Well then... I have to give it my all!
Remilia
Uh oh. Things never end well when she gets like this. Sakuya, keep an eye on Patchy so she doesn't pass out.
Sakuya
As you wish, milady.
Remilia
Well then, girl from Suzunaan and PLAYER. Are we free of suspicion?
Kosuzu
Yes! I'm sorry for suspecting you in the first place!
Remilia
Don't worry about that. You should be wary of every youkai residing in Gensokyo.
Remilia
I did hear a rumor about the Miare girl's book going missing.
Remilia
This might be a prelude to something bigger...
Remilia
If it falls into the wrong hands, the secrets of all the youkai in Gensokyo will be revealed...!
I don't think I want to see that happen...!
Remilia
Me neither. So keep searching and find the book as quickly as possible.
Targeted Samurai Girl
Alice
Good morning, PLAYER. I heard you went to the Scarlet Devil Mansion yesterday.
Alice
Was your investigation fruitful?
Yeah, it actually was!
But our hunches were wrong...
Kosuzu
We even had a battle of bullets, but it turned out that they didn't have Akyuu's book.
Alice
Is that so? Well, if Remilia and Sakuya don't have it, that means they didn't steal it.
Alice
Which eliminates two suspects.
Kosuzu
When you put it that way, it does sound like an improvement!
Alice
We, on the other hand, dug through the entire library of the Hieda residence only to come up empty-handed.
Alice
But there's still a lot to explore, so we need to keep questioning people and searching the library.
Kosuzu
Right! Let's battle all the suspicious humans and youkai!
Alice
...I don't think violence is a good solution. Gathering the witnesses' testimonies is just as important.
Kosuzu
I know, I know...!
Alice
Well... Patchouli is dying from sore muscles, so I'll accompany you today.
Alice
It'll be so nice to work without Marisa around. She gave me a hard time yesterday at the library.
All right! Let's see what we can find today!
Kosuzu
Sounds like a plan! But unfortunately, I have to work at the shop...
Alice
Oh my, that is inconvenient. I wanted to ask if you'd seen any other people we might want to question...
Kosuzu
Oh, right! I was just about to tell you! Um... Someone visited Suzunaan not too long ago...
Other than Sakuya?
Alice
Who's that?
Kosuzu
She visited the shop several times in a span of just a few days! And was only interested in rare books!
Kosuzu
A Hakugyokurou servant―Miss Youmu!
Alice
Let's go, PLAYER. Good luck at work, Kosuzu!
Kosuzu
Aw, already?! Hey, don't forget to fill me in later!
Kosuzu
I really need to know who stole Akyuu's book. Hm... This is probably going to take quite some time.
Youmu
Lady Yuyuko! I'm back!
Yuyuko
Heehee. Welcome home, Youmu. Have you found the you-know-what?
Youmu
Yes! I think you'll be pleased!
???
Oh? That's something I would certainly like to see.
Youmu
What are you wearing...?!
Alice
Hehe! I'm no ordinary puppeteer now! The Great Detective Alice―that's what they call me!
Youmu
...Huh?
Yuyuko
How cute! I'd love to try on an outfit like that!
(She's even more into this than Marisa...!)
Alice
Well, it's not every day that I get to dress like this, so... Ahem!
Alice
Never mind my clothes! I need you to show me this you-know-what!
Youmu
N-No! I can't do that! It has nothing to do with you!
Alice
I'll be the judge of that!
Alice
We're currently investigating the case of Akyuu's missing book!
Alice
And the thing you were looking for―and apparently found―happens to be a book, right?
Youmu
W-We have nothing to do with that! ABSOLUTELY nothing! I plead innocence!
Youmu
I-I-I-I only bought what Lady Yuyuko asked me to!
Alice
Then why are you hiding it so desperately?! If you're really innocent―just show us the book!
Youmu
I... refuse!
Youmu
First, how do you know it's a book?! If you suspect me... then prove it! That's right! Prove my guilt!
Alice
Oh dear... You sure are stubborn. All right then. Let me explain how we picked up your trail.
Alice
I heard you've been paying frequent visits to Suzunaan lately. What else would you be looking for in a book rental shop?
Alice
And Kosuzu testified that you were seeking a pretty unique one.
Alice
To top it off, you have a criminal record―you stole spring in the past!
Youmu
That was ages ago! It should all be water under the bridge by now!
Yuyuko
That's right. We've already returned the spring we stole back then.
Yuyuko
The only thing I think of stealing now is snacks. It's so much more fun to sneak a taste behind Youmu's back!
Youmu
You can't do that! If you keep that up, then what did you want this book for in the first―ah, I didn't mean to say that!
Yuyuko
No need to be so upset. I haven't done anything today... yet.
Youmu
As if saying that makes it any better!
Alice
What's this? A ghost with sticky fingers? If you want to clear your names, you'll have to show us this book.
Youmu
Ugh...! Well, in a sense, we have kind of earned this...
Alice
Heh... I see you need one final push.
(Is that what I think it is...?!)
Alice
Let's settle this through a battle of bullets!
Youmu
Good! I like simple solutions!
Youmu
All right. If we win, you'll let us be, OK? Because the Hakugyokurou kitchen's affairs are none of your business!
Alice
How's the lost book related to your kitchen? ...I really don't know what's going on here anymore.
Alice
But if you won't cough up the answers voluntarily, we'll take them by force! PLAYER, let's reveal the truth!
Yuyuko
Oh my. We lost. But you did well, Youmu. You're such a reliable girl.
Alice
I feel... like we're invading their privacy. I almost wish we hadn't done that.
Alice
But it doesn't matter! Show us the book!
Youmu
Ugh... I guess I don't really have a choice now.
..."A Healthy Belly: Simple and Filling Recipes"?
Youmu
Yes... I was looking for a way to make Lady Yuyuko feel full longer...
Yuyuko
Hey, what's with that book?! I told you to make me a dish called "pancakes"!
Youmu
Of course, I will! But I'll use konjac flour!
Yuyuko
They won't be pancakes, then! I'm not interested in konjac cakes... I want real pancakes!
Yuyuko
I can't believe you were planning to trick me with konjac! That's not how I raised you!
Youmu
Eating too much isn't good for your health! Come on, doesn't this recipe look delicious?
Yuyuko
Oh? Ooooh? Well, it does indeed look scrumptious...
Alice
W-We... shouldn't be watching this, huh?
Youmu
Is this enough for you? Are we free of suspicion now?
Alice
Um... Yeah. Sorry. PLAYER, let's head back.
Right... Sorry, Youmu!
Youmu
It's all right. As long as you get it.
Yuyuko
Oh? Are they gone already? They could've eaten some fresh pancakes before going back...
Yuyuko
Youmu, it's mealtime!
Youmu
Coming right up!
Grating Detective Marisa
Marisa
Hey! Rough day yesterday, huh? Alice told me what happened.
Marisa
You know... After three whole days combing through Akyuu's study, I've reached a conclusion.
Marisa
Wanna hear it?
Yeah, sure!
Marisa
Although we were wrong, we suspected Sakuya and Youmu. Neither of them wanted the book itself... which is key.
Marisa
If someone looks for a book, it means they want the information it contains.
Marisa
They want to achieve something―they have ambition.
Marisa
There's someone with burning hunger here in peaceful Gensokyo! And I know only one person who fits the bill!
Marisa
Hehehe... The Great Detective Marisa will shed light on the culprit. Light as bright as her Master Spark!
Marisa
All right, we don't have all day! Onward, my dear sidekick!
O-OK!
(I was upgraded to a sidekick!)
Reimu
Oh, it's Marisa and PLAYER. Hi.
Reimu
I heard through the grapevine that a book disappeared from Akyuu's―
Marisa
Reimu... You have let me down... I am so, so disappointed in you.
Reimu
Huh? Is that your way of saying hi today?
Marisa
Fess up! I know you did it!
Reimu
Huh?! What nonsense are you spouting?
Marisa
Nice try, but you won't be wriggling out of this one! I'll interrogate you at Akyuu's home. Now come with us.
Reimu
I have no idea what you're talking about!
Marisa
Good for you we're friends. I'll see to it that you get an attorney. But will they stand a chance against Akyuu...?
Reimu
HEY! Care to tell me what's going on?! If you really consider us friends, you should hear me out first!
(Marisa, what are you planning...?)
(Do you really think Reimu is the culprit?!)
Marisa
Um, seriously? You want me to take your word for it? Without any proof?
Reimu
It's not like YOU have any either!
???
STOP!
Kasen
Why are you treating her like a criminal? What are your grounds for suspecting her?
Kasen
Marisa, I won't overlook such autocracy, even from you! Such accusations are evil! I won't let it slide!
Marisa
Oh, come on, Ibarakasen! It's a misunderstanding! We can talk things over!
Marisa
Look, I just need to... doubt her before I believe her!
Kasen
...Which means?
Reimu
Wh-What are you talking about?! Where is this all coming from?
Marisa
L-Look! Even you have your vices! If you saw a super rare book within your reach, wouldn't you take it?
Reimu
No, I wouldn't! No matter how tempting it is! That would be completely inappropriate!
Kasen
That's right! I've been training her so that she'd NEVER turn out that way!
Marisa
(Good grief... That training of yours might be the very reason she goes off the rails...)
???
Whoa! What's this?! I smell a real BIG SCOOP here!
Aya
A pious pilferer! The holy Hakurei shrine maiden revealed as a dirty thief all along!
Aya
Ayayaya... How unforgivable.
Reimu
I'm not a thief! Stop making stuff up!
Reimu
We've got few enough worshippers as it is without you writing hogwash about me. Hand over that film and go away!
Aya
I'm afraid I can't do that!
Marisa
Ah, sorry, I forgot to tell you. You're actually among the suspects too. Just so you know.
Aya
Ayayaya! ME?! And why is that?
Reimu
You're at it again?! Just explain what's going on already!
Marisa
You often visit the Human Village as a reporter.
Marisa
And the book in question is the historical tome of the Child of Miare. I bet your hand would reach for it of its own volition.
Aya
Hmmm... Makes sense. I'll give you that. But you still don't have ANY grounds to accuse me!
Reimu
This makes absolutely no sense to me!
Kasen
*sigh* I'm impressed you were even able to dream up such drivel... There's no point in humoring her. Let us be off.
Marisa
Hold it, Ibarakasen. You're a prime suspect, too.
Marisa
I know that you visit the village. And being a hermit, you must crave knowledge.
Kasen
Oh, I see what this is now... You're simply trying to start a fight!
Marisa
Oh? You're angry! That proves something, doesn't it, Miss Hermit?
Marisa, why are you...?
Please stop provoking them...!
Marisa
There's a method to my madness! You'll see!
Kasen
Hehe... You're practically begging for a sound thrashing. Fine. I can help you with that!
Reimu
Ugh, this is such a pain. But I can't have you calling me a thief. You had this coming, Marisa!
Aya
I hardly ever get angry, but you really pressed my buttons here! And now you're gonna pay for it!
Marisa
Look! They've taken the bait! PLAYER, I need you at my side!
Marisa
Hey, did your anger get the best of you? Your movements were so easy to read!
Marisa
Still, I'm rather surprised you did so well... It's natural to get upset after being falsely accused.
Reimu
So I was right! You were just falsely accusing me!
Aya
Actually, hold on a sec.
Aya
Hmmm... I think I'm starting to see what you were up to.
Aya
You wanted to show us that anything was possible, didn't you?
Marisa
Yeah. Anyone could be the culprit! An extremely powerful human, a youkai, or even a hermit!
Marisa
There are a lot of folks here in Gensokyo that can steal a book rather easily!
Kasen
Wh-What?
Kasen
...Well, your intensity took me by surprise, but you're right. Only a normal human would be free of suspicion.
Aya
There are a lot of folks who could use force to achieve their goal if that was their whim...
Marisa
And there is no one... who doesn't have a motive!
Reimu
What do you mean?
Marisa
Let me explain. Practically everyone is mentioned in Akyuu's book, right? It'd be harder to find someone who isn't.
Marisa
So... think about all the possibilities that come from this.
Marisa
What if something you're embarrassed about was recorded in there?
Reimu
That... would be rather awkward. I'd definitely want to get hold of that book and remove the worrisome parts.
Kasen
A h-hermit has nothing to hide, but that also depends on what is in there... False information would need to be fixed!
Aya
But the Hieda clan head is Gumonji. She never forgets what she's seen. So is there even a point in removing records?
Marisa
Ding-ding! We have a winner, folks!
Marisa
That's why the whole book was stolen! Someone's hoping Akyuu will think it too much work and give up on rewriting it!
And the "ambition" you mentioned...?
Marisa
Oh, sorry. That was a little white lie. I thought you might stop me if you knew what I was planning.
Y-Yeah, I probably would have...!
Marisa
We all have our faults. But there's no time to investigate every single one of us.
Marisa
All we can do is cause a chain reaction. We push one person and they push another. Like giant Gensokyo dominoes!
Aya
Not a bad idea at all, coming from you. But yeah, causing a domino effect would eventually reveal the culprit.
Reimu
Though rather aggressive, I guess the ends justify the means if we want to find Akyuu's book.
Marisa
Yeah, if it falls into the wrong hands, we'll have way bigger problems than our dirty laundry getting aired!
Reimu
We have to strike first! And brace ourselves for the upcoming battles!
Kasen
Let's split up. This world is full of questionable creatures... like kappa, tanuki, and fairies!
Aya
Uh... in that case, I have to suspect my own! Crow tengu, white wolf tengu... Ayayaya, maybe even the Great Tengu!
(That escalated quickly...!)
Marisa
This is for the sake of Gensokyo! You see someone suspicious, you give them a taste of your bullets!
Flaming Defendant
Marisa
Hey... Why are you all so mad at me?!
Patchouli
Isn't it obvious? Yesterday, you raised a ruckus that embroiled all of Gensokyo.
Alice
You almost caused an incident. Without any specific culprit, but still.
Marisa
Hey, hold on now! We had to start somewhere! You gotta admit, it wasn't a bad strategy!
Kosuzu
Well, I guess it wasn't if you look at the results. It all depends on how you look at it, though.
What do you mean?
Marisa
Hmm, I think I get it...
Marisa
I caused a lot of trouble and didn't even find out who the culprit is. But we did manage to figure out who ISN'T.
Alice
I see... The perpetrator must've stayed away from the commotion.
Patchouli
Oh?! That really narrows down the number of suspects! There are only a few people who weren't involved!
Marisa
See? SEE?! So if we just eliminate the remaining suspects in order...
Kosuzu
No! We can't cause any more unnecessary commotion! We have to find solid grounds for our suspicions!
Marisa
Tsk! ...Kosuzu, I want more tea!
Kosuzu
Suzunaan isn't a tea shop, y'know? But all right, I'll let you have your way this time.
Patchouli
Still, this book chronicling the entire history of Gensokyo...
Patchouli
It contains the secrets of the humans and youkai residing here. This knowledge can be dangerous in the wrong hands.
Alice
I'd like to think that there aren't that many people who'd just blabber about their own weaknesses...
Marisa
But the truth is they may not remember what and how much they've said!
Alice
That book really should've never left Akyuu's library.
Patchouli
Yes. We have to do something before it's too late.
We'd better get on the hunt!
Marisa
Yeah! Leave it to the Great Detective Marisa!
Alice
Don't you mean the "Grating" Detective?
Marisa
What did you just call me?!
Kosuzu
Here. Your tea. ...I gave this all some thought too, y'know?
Kosuzu
At first, I was skeptical of Miss Keine. But I discarded that suspicion rather quickly!
Marisa
Right... Keine sometimes visits the Hieda mansion to talk about the textbooks Akyuu writes.
Marisa
But would a temple school teacher really stoop to theft?
Kosuzu
I know. But thinking about her history-related abilities and stuff...
Alice
Hmm, it may be difficult for you to understand, but her skill is more like a duty obliging her to compile chronicles.
Kosuzu
True, I couldn't get my head around it at first.
Kosuzu
I thought that she could change or remove the contents from books that contain history...
Kosuzu
Miss Patchouli explained my mistake to me though.
Patchouli
Exactly. Keine's ability exerts influence over a conceptually broader range. It's at once lawful and primordial.
Kosuzu
Also, it's part of Miss Keine's duty to protect the history of Gensokyo... So she can't be the culprit!
Kosuzu
But thanks to this mistake on my part, I was able to come up with two other suspects!
Marisa
Interesting. So who are we talking about?
Kosuzu
The first is someone that can enter the mansion whenever Akyuu's condition demands. We all know how frail she is...
Kosuzu
As for the other...
Kosuzu
Someone who can access the Hieda's secret scrolls using her connection with Miss Keine... So a friend of Miss Keine!
Patchouli
Eirin's medicine can cure anyone. That, of course includes bolstering the Maiden of Miare's physical condition.
Alice
And the one who distributes said medicine in the village is...
Reisen
Oh, what are you doing here dressed like that? Playing detective or something?
You were talking about Reisen...?!
Marisa
What are we doing, you ask? Hehehe...
Marisa
Why, we've been waiting for you!
Reisen
Whaaaaaaat?!
Reisen
Urk...! I can't believe I got tied up like this!
Marisa
Reisen, are you the culprit? That's the only thing we want to know.
Reisen
...The what?
Alice
Surely those long ears of yours must've heard the rumors of the big uproar yesterday?
Reisen
Are you talking about Akyuu's lost book? I did hear about that. All of Gensokyo is searching for the thief―
Reisen
Wait, don't tell me this is the investigation?! You're not following any of the proper procedures!
Patchouli
Say, you can freely access the house of the Maiden of Miare, right?
Reisen
If that's the basis of your assumptions, then you have to suspect all of the servants in the mansion!
???
My goodness. Would you please stop tormenting my sweet Inaba?
Reisen
Princess!
Kaguya
Reisen has nothing to do with yesterday's turmoil. She hasn't been to the Human Village at all this week.
Patchouli
Is that your personal testimony? Or are you stating this on behalf of Eientei?
Kaguya
I speak for Eientei, of course.
Patchouli
Normally, your relation to the suspect would negate your credibility, but we will give you the benefit of the doubt.
Kaguya
Hehe, thank you.
Marisa
Oh, I'm sure she wouldn't lie to us. She'd be exposed once we asked Akyuu's servants, after all.
Marisa
Which leaves us with―
Kaguya
Oh, what a coincidence! I, too, thought that someone suspicious might be hiding in this forest!
Alice
Wait... You mean to say you're searching for the culprit too?
Kaguya
Of course! This whole affair is the perfect opportunity to relieve my boredom!
Kaguya
I wanted to help yesterday, but it ended before I could. And as it happens, an old friend of mine didn't participate either.
Old friend?
Are you talking about Mokou?!
Mokou
What's that? Did someone call me? This doesn't look like an emergency.
Mokou
You just want me to guide you to Kaguya's place, as us―
Reisen
Mokooooou!
Mokou
Huh? Reisen?! Why are you tied up...? Gah?! Kaguya?!
Kaguya
The flaming Fire Bird shows herself at last! You are the real culprit, aren't you? You immortal bandit in work pants?!
Mokou
Whoa, slow down a sec. What's this all about? And what gives with the spotlight?
Mokou
...Wait. Is this a sequel to the huge fuss that went on yesterday?
Kaguya
Silence, you fiery filcher! The Detective Princess Kaguya will put an end to your wicked ways!
Mokou
Can someone explain this to me so that I'm not the odd one out here?
Kaguya must've been REALLY bored...
Marisa
I think Kaguya wants to play with you.
Kaguya
You can't deceive the Detective Princess's eyes! I saw you a few days ago carrying a book as if it was some treasure!
Mokou
Y-You saw that...?!
Patchouli
An unexpected statement... Have we found the true suspect?
Mokou
You've got the wrong idea! That was a book from Keine!
Alice
From Keine, you say...? That's it! Did Keine know what book it was when she gave it to you?
Mokou
O-Of course she did!
Patchouli & Alice
C-Could they be... partners in crime?!
Kaguya
Hold your horses! Could you please NOT steal my thunder?
Reisen
Um, hello? Did you all forget about me? Get me out of these ropes!
Marisa
This... has gotten complicated. But we need to check out Mokou!
Reisen
A battle of bullets will clear everything up!
Kaguya & Reisen
I'll back up Reisen! And I'll support Mokou!
Mokou
*sigh* I'm confused. I don't know how to deal with this... But if you want to see my book, you'll have to beat me first!
Kaguya
Well then, Reisen! Let's do this!
Reisen
B-But...
Mokou
Don't worry, Reisen. I'll have the nearby fairies help me.
Patchouli
The situation has gotten somewhat convoluted, but we need to see Mokou's book... PLAYER, let's go!
Kaguya
Not bad, Work Pants! But what do you say to THIS?!
Mokou
Is that all you've got, Princess Detective?! That won't work on me!
Reisen
Oh, come on! Why are we fighting among friends?!
Um... Mokou?
Please show us your book...
Mokou
OK, OK... I guess you can take a look. Here.
Marisa
Huh? It's just a picture book.
Alice
Oh my, you're right. This is... actually kind of cute.
Patchouli
It's a children's book, but the subject is quite deep, so adults can enjoy it too.
Mokou
That's what I heard. I wanted to give it a read, so Keine lent me a copy from her temple school.
Kaguya
How perfect! I wanted to read it too! Read it to me, please?
Mokou
Wh-What?!
Kaguya
Oh, come on. That way both of us can read it. Two birds with one stone and all.
Mokou
Well, I guess I don't mind... But it's still too early for a bedtime story.
Kaguya
You're right. I'm not sleepy at all.
Mokou
Then, let me make you fall asleep―
Mokou & Kaguya
With my bullets!
Reisen
*sigh* Mokou and the princess will never change...
Reisen
*glare*
Marisa
Um, well... Mokou's name is cleared! I-It's time for us to head back!
Marisa
I'll come to buy some meds next time...!
Living God's Mishap
Marisa
Ahh... That was a real nice adventure yesterday!
Patchouli
I hate to break it to you, but we don't have time for this. We must find the culprit and retrieve the book!
Alice
There are only a few people who haven't proven their innocence yet.
Aya
Hi! This is your daily dose of good news, the Bunbunmaru Newspaper! I've got some real scoops for you today!
Patchouli
Oh? And since when did you start sharing information for free?
Aya
Oh no no, Miss Patchouli! It's not free!
Aya
It's for the sake of resolving the incident! After all, I was a part of that ruckus the other day... Hahaha.
So what information do you have?
Aya
Hehehe! I'm glad you asked! The moment of revelation is when reporters shine their brightest!
Marisa
Right, right, whatever. Out with it already.
Aya
Ayayaya... You're no fun at all.
Aya
Maybe this headline will change your mind: "Out of this world! False gods worshipped at Moriya Shrine!"
Alice
Wh-What?!
Patchouli
False gods? For some reason... the sound of those words makes my heart flutter!
Aya
The latest activities of Sanae of Moriya Shrine included collecting books I've never heard of...
Aya
That's what the rumors say. I have no doubt that it's part of some new form of proselytizing!
(Aren't you just jumping to conclusions...?)
Marisa
Well, I gotta say... your scoop's as fishy as usual... Wait. Weren't the folks from Moriya Shrine...
Patchouli
Yes. They decided to stay out of the fuss the other day.
Alice
That's what I was going to say! The only ones whose innocence we haven't confirmed yet are―
Alice
The dwellers of Moriya Shrine!
Sanae
Everyone, welcome to Moriya Shrine! Please make yourself at home!
Sanae
Oh! If it isn't Marisa! And you guys, too! Hello! I absolutely love your outfits!
Sanae
They're so cute... I want to dress like that too!
Marisa
Sanae. It's been many months and years since we stepped onto this path! We've finally found you!
Sanae
O-Oh, um... You must be tired after climbing the mountain. What brings you all the way to Moriya Shrine―ah!
Sanae
Hoping to talk about your troubles? Or maybe you're in need of youkai extermination?! Or incident resolving?!
Marisa
Sanae... It's you! It must be you!
Sanae
Yes, it's me! The one and only! Sanae Kochiya, wind priestess of Moriya Shrine.
Marisa
That's the spirit! Take her in!
Sanae
Ack! Wh-What are you doing?!
At least tell her why we're here...
Sanae
You've got the wrong person!
Alice
Marisa, I don't think this is the right way to do it. You should already know that by now from experience...
Sanae
Let me go! I ask that you release me! Let me go! Let me GO!
Marisa
But we don't have any more suspects.
Sanae
Is that your only reason?!
Sanae
Ah! You're looking for Akyuu's book, aren't you? Do you really think I would commit such heresy?!
Patchouli
Well, I do feel like she wouldn't really mind even if something embarrassing was written about her in the book.
Sanae
Why would I?! I have nothing to be ashamed of!
Patchouli
What did I tell you? She doesn't sound embarrassed at all.
???
What's going on? What's all this noise? Are we having a festival today?
Kanako
...It doesn't seem like you've come to pay your respects to the gods. Do you have some business with our Sanae?
Suwako
Ooh? Did you make her cry? What exactly are you trying to do?
Kanako
Oh, Sanae IS crying! Sanae, what happened?!
Sanae
*sob* Lady Kanako! Lady Suwako! I haven't done anything wrong!
Sanae
But they're still doing this to meeeee!
Kanako
We may know each other, but that won't keep me from bringing divine retribution down upon you.
Kanako
Explain yourselves and prepare to be punished!
Alice, Patchouli, & Marisa
Uh oh...!
That's why I told you to explain things first...
You really should just apologize.
Marisa
Heh, sorry! My bad! It's just a misunderstanding! I'm sure it is! So simmer down and hear us out!
Suwako
But did YOU listen to our Sanae? Because it appears to me that you just apprehended her without letting her say a word.
Suwako
Why should we hear you out in this situation? We aren't that kind.
Marisa
Hold on! We don't have conclusive proof, but there're no other suspects left! And Sanae was collecting books!
Marisa
Look, it hasn't been that long since Moriya Shrine settled in Gensokyo.
Marisa
So I figured you might wanna place your shrine in the book compiled by the Child of Miare to boost its prestige.
Kanako
Oh? I see... I will keep in mind that there's such a way of gathering believers.
Suwako
Akyuu's book... So it's about the ruckus the other day? Sanae, what kind of books have you collected?
Sanae
Huh? Oh, th-that's... a bit...
Sanae
I can't say! Not even to you two!
Patchouli
...It's like she's hiding something from her parents.
Alice
Maybe she's been collecting some weird novels...
Marisa
Hey, Sanae? Why don't you just show US the books? We won't tell anyone.
Sanae
All right. If you promise not to tell Lady Kanako and Lady Suwako...
This time we can settle things peacefully!
Kanako & Suwako
...Stop right there.
Alice, Patchouli, & Marisa
Huh?
Kanako
Stop, Sanae. You don't have to show them the books.
Suwako
That's right. You are going through puberty. We're aware it's a difficult time for you.
Marisa
But she said she didn't mind.
Sanae
I really don't. Lady Kanako, Lady Suwako, if it can be resolved this way, I'll just...
Kanako & Suwako
NO, you won't!!!
Kanako
This is something Sanae wants to keep private. If we don't get to know, then so be it. We won't pry.
Suwako
Exactly. We will keep raising her with care. That is all we wish for.
Kanako & Suwako
And we won't have you getting in the way!
(They must feel a bit left out...)
Patchouli
(I bet Sanae can't even imagine how much they love her...)
Alice
(But this means we're going to have to...)
Kanako & Suwako
If you don't back off, we will have to use force!
Sanae
But I really don't mind showing them the books...
Suwako
It's all right, Sanae. If you can't show the books even to us, don't bother showing THEM.
Kanako
Remember, we will do anything to protect you!
Marisa
Sanae... They, like, totally love you, don't they?
Marisa
But we don't really have a choice now. We need to know the truth, even if it means toppling two gods!
Suwako
We were going easy on you, but you did pretty well...!
Kanako
It seems like we'll have to get serious...
(Is this what they call real love...?!)
Alice
Not good... Looks like they're not done yet!
Patchouli
Oof! Marisa! Don't you have any tricks up your sleeve?!
Marisa
You're desperate enough to rely on me, Patchouli? Sorry, but I've already used up all of my trump cards...
Suwako
Are you ready, then?
Kanako
It's time... Unleash all the Moriya Shrine bullets!
Marisa
All right, time to make a run for it!
Alice
Are you kidding me?!
Patchouli
This is the worst-case scenario...
Sanae
HERE! These are my books! Look, Lady Kanako! Lady Suwako!
Kanako
Sanae, it's dangerous! Don't stand in the line of fire!
Suwako
Oh, look at that, Kanako! The books Sanae brought...
Alice, Patchouli, & Marisa
They're... textbooks?!
Sanae
Yes... I didn't want Lady Kanako and Lady Suwako to think that I miss the outside world. They'd be worried!
Kanako
These are all textbooks from the outside. How nostalgic... And of course you bookworms recognized them immediately.
Patchouli
Well, you can find a decent number of them among texts from the outside.
Patchouli
They aren't that rare for someone who handles these kinds of books.
Alice
Still, this is the first time I've seen so many textbooks in one place!
Suwako
If you don't miss the outside world, then why...?
Sanae
Well, ever since we've come to Gensokyo...
Kanako
Go on.
Sanae
I haven't studied even once!
Suwako
What are you saying?! Is that something to be worried about? You don't have to...
Sanae
I do!
Sanae
Even the kids from the village study at the temple school every day. And sometimes they tease me for my ignorance...
Sanae
And my unconventional thinking too! So, I just wanted to acquire some basic knowledge about how the world works.
Sanae
And then I'll break all those conventions!
(She has no intention of thinking conventionally at all!)
Patchouli
In a sense, that's a relief... And it's just like Sanae to do this.
Kanako
Oh, I didn't know you had such problems... Let us help you!
Suwako
Maybe we can join you in your studies? Kanako, what do you say?
Kanako
That's not a bad idea! We can teach each other!
Sanae
This is going to be so much fun!
Marisa
Haha, we were a total nuisance. I don't want to poke my nose into a happy family's affairs.
Patchouli
But now we're in a predicament. We have no more suspects...
Alice
Yeah... Anyway, let's report to Akyuu first!
Back to Suzunaan
Kosuzu
I'd like to remind you that Suzunaan is not a tea shop... but looking at your faces, I don't have the heart.
Akyuu told us to gather here.
Kosuzu
Oh, really? Does that mean... she's found the culprit?!
Akyuu
Yes. That's why I asked you all to come here... But before we cut to the chase―
Akyuu
I told you to keep this incident a secret... But now every single person in Gensokyo knows what happened.
Marisa
Oh... Sorry about that!
Marisa
But don't be mad! The villagers and your servants don't know, so it's fine, right?
Akyuu
I didn't want anyone to know because I felt ashamed. It's a stain on my honor.
Akyuu
Oddly enough, you managed to prove there is no culprit in Gensokyo.
Alice
It looks like it. We checked everyone who didn't take part in the commotion.
Patchouli
And I'm afraid we have run out of suspects... That's why we came to ask for your advice.
Akyuu
I have deduced that the culprit is right here among us!
Marisa, Patchouli, & Alice
What?!
Kosuzu
Darn it! I wanted to be the one pulling out a real detective line like that! ...So? Who is it? Who's the no-good thief?
Akyuu
The culprit is...
Akyuu
You, Kosuzu!
Kosuzu
Oooh, I see, so it was me all along... Wait, what?
Kosuzu & the Magicians
WHAAAAT?!
Kosuzu
Wh-Why me?! Do you have proof?!
Akyuu
Kosuzu, have you unwrapped the books you collected from my house six days ago?
Kosuzu
Hmm... not yet. There's a lot of them, so I was going to do it later.
Akyuu
Why not unwrap them now and see what's inside? You'll find there's a book among them that doesn't belong to Suzunaan.
Kosuzu
Huh? Really?
Marisa
Hey, what're you getting at?
Akyuu
Well you see, I didn't notice until just now either, so I'm not in a position to complain...
Akyuu
But firstly, if the other humans and youkai are innocent, that means the culprit must be here in this room.
Akyuu
It may be hard to believe, but that's what we can assume based on the results of our investigation.
Akyuu
And the only one who visited my house on the day the incident occurred was Kosuzu.
Alice
Still, it's so bizarre. I don't think Kosuzu actually intended to steal your book...
Patchouli
We will know the truth when Kosuzu comes back.
Kosuzu
Just as Akyuu said, I did find something among the books I collected...
Kosuzu
"The Gensokyo Chronicle. Reference Materials"... Whoa! It looks super important!
Marisa
Don't tell me you didn't know!
Alice
Now that I think about it, Kosuzu was pretty busy at the shop. Maybe she wasn't listening to Akyuu...
Patchouli
Still, is it possible to miss such key information?
Akyuu
In Kosuzu's case―yes, it is. You should really listen to people when they're talking to you.
Kosuzu
But to think that we turned Gensokyo upside-down only to find that the culprit was me... What a bummer!
Akyuu
Next time, do check if all the books are yours before you collect them.
Akyuu
...That said, just return it to me and we can consider this case closed. Thank you for your help, everyone.
Akyuu
What's wrong, Kosuzu?
Kosuzu
Do I really have to give the book back to you...?
Akyuu
Excuse me? Are you trying to become a thief for real this time!?
Kosuzu
N-No! You can just let me borrow it! It's one of a kind, you know!
Marisa
Yeah, I get where you're coming from... I'd love to give it a read too.
Marisa
As dwellers of Gensokyo, we want to know what's inside.
Kosuzu
But you aren't gonna let us, are you? Unlike you, we do forget things, so you could just let us have a tiny peek.
Akyuu
*sigh* You are acting like a child.
Akyuu
PLAYER, do you think you can help me?
Sure! But with what?
Oh no... Not again...!
Akyuu
I've just learned how to shoot bullets, so I thought we could settle it this way. Right?
Akyuu
Kosuzu, if you want to read my book so badly, why don't you fight for it in a battle of bullets?
Kosuzu
Oh... Right! This is how things are done!
Akyuu
Exactly. Shall we?
Kosuzu
Ready when you are!
Kosuzu & Akyuu
Let's begin!
Akyuu
All right, Kosuzu. Let us fight fair and square!
Kosuzu
I'm not gonna lose!
Marisa
Hey, but what if you do? It's better not to make rash promises!
Akyuu
Hehe, I'm not planning on losing either. Not when my opponent is Kosuzu... At least for now!
Marisa
What?
Kosuzu
Aaahh, right in my pride! I thought I could defeat you at least, Akyuu!
Akyuu
You shouldn't keep your hopes up. Your bullets are made of your own experience, remember?
Akyuu
They are also our most important memories. And I don't forget anything.
Akyuu
Your bullets as they are now won't work on me. Do you understand?
Kosuzu
Urk... I feel like I've just brushed the surface of these battles of bullets...! I'll beat you next time!
Marisa
Still... it's an interesting idea to use an experience related to a tsukumogami.
Marisa
And Akyuu forged her experience into a weapon.
Marisa
It was so much fun to watch! Fight me next time!
Kosuzu
Hehehe... With a bit of training, I might actually beat you, Marisa!
Marisa
I like your spirit! Well, you know where to find me!
Akyuu
Anyway, I'm relieved we found the book before something bad happened. I can finally sleep in peace. Thank you!
Marisa
No biggie! But that's all my handiwork! Thank you for choosing the Great Detective Marisa. Please come again!
Alice
Someone's getting high-and-mighty, huh? Weren't you the one who got us into the most dangerous situations?
We pulled through because we were together!
Patchouli
That's right. On her own, Marisa would be like a lost child.
Marisa
But it's the end result that counts. Right?
Out of Countless Truths
Akyuu
*sigh* The incident has been resolved at last.
Kosuzu
That book of yours though... I really wanted to read it, even if you only let me read a little...
Akyuu
You don't know when to give up, do you? If you want to read it so bad, try the Gensokyo Chronicle I compiled.
Kosuzu
...Fine, I'll do that instead.
Akyuu
...You think it's boring, don't you?
Marisa
Anyhoo, we really worked hard this time! And there's nothing better than a nice cup of tea after a long day!
Marisa
...Hm? The sweets you're serving with the tea are different today.
Alice
Yeah, these are special pancakes, made with less sugar! Youmu gave me the recipe!
Alice
You should try some.
Patchouli
Oh, the ones made with konjac? *munch* *munch* Mm, they are tasty!
Patchouli
I'll tell Sakuya. She'll probably like them! They may even be to Remi's taste.
Marisa
*munch* *munch* Oh! Yeah, I dig them too! They go super well with tea!
Marisa
Hey, Akyuu, Kosuzu! We've got tea and sweets here!
Alice
All right. I'll go prepare some tea for the others too.
Patchouli
I'll help a little too. I had a nice workout the other day, after all!
...
The secrets of humans and youkai...
Yukari
Oh my, you're curious?
Yukari
I'm sorry, but... I can't show you the book.
M-Miss Yukari?!
Yukari
Heehee, sorry. I didn't mean to surprise you.
Yukari
There are people in Gensokyo like Akyuu and Keine who use their powers in order to play an important role.
Yukari
Their records, memory... and their information. They all help to maintain order and balance in Gensokyo.
Yukari
Your experience is recorded in your journal and protected by a mysterious power that prevents it from being removed.
Yukari
Perhaps your role is similar to that of Akyuu's or Keine's? We don't know yet, but you can't be too careful until we do.
It would be bad if secrets were copied out!
Yukari
Yes, exactly. You really are a good girl. You've prevented another incident again too. Thank you.
Yukari
I'm counting on you in the future too, PLAYER.
Akyuu
Something the matter, PLAYER? ...Huh? Lady Yukari?!
Akyuu
How come you always appear out of nowhere?!
Yukari
Why are you so surprised? I just came to enjoy some tea with you all.
Yukari
Say, have you gotten used to fighting with bullets?
Akyuu
Not yet, but I think I'm starting to get the hang of it...
Akyuu
Still, we caused a lot of tumult this time, so I'm returning my license.
Yukari
Don't.
Yukari
I'll extend its validity. Have some battles and polish your skills in your free time.
Kosuzu
You mean it?!
Akyuu
I find bullet battles fun, so I'm glad to hear that. But why are you doing this?
Yukari
I told you already: in order to maintain equilibrium in Gensokyo. The balance of this land is a very fragile thing.
Yukari
That's all you need to know for now.
Akyuu
B-But...!
Yukari
More importantly, Akyuu, make sure not to leave that precious book of secrets on the table.
Yukari
Your carelessness was the real cause of the turmoil. Remember to enjoy your tea only after tidying up your books.
Akyuu
I can't really say anything to that... I'll be careful.
Kosuzu
Whoa, it's so rare for Akyuu to get lectured! I can help you with the books! At least the ones you don't mind me touching!
Me too!
Yukari
Heehee... You're all so kind.
Alice
Ah! It's the gap youkai! Lend us a hand if you're sticking around!
Patchouli
I'm sure you came here lured by the smell of pancakes and waited until the work was all done.
Marisa
Knowing you, you probably also took a few snacks from the pantry. Come on, empty your pockets!
Yukari
I just thought it would be nice to enjoy some teatime with you all. Let me hear about your adventures.
Of course!
Keine
Akyuu! Are you all right?! I heard you lost an important book!
Akyuu
M-M-Miss Keine! What happened? Why are you in such a hurry?
Keine
I heard from Mokou about your book and rushed over at once!
Marisa
Don't worry, I solved the case! The Great Detective Marisa shed light as bright as her Master Spa―
Alice
Yeah, yeah. No need to remind us.
Keine
S-Solved...?! You mean you got it back?!
Patchouli
Yes, it's safe in the hands of the Maiden of Miare.
Keine
Thank goodness!
Keine
I wanted to come earlier, but I had to check the tests from the temple school and you know...
Patchouli
That does sound like something that would keep you...
Yukari
Since you're here, why don't you join us for tea, Keine? We were just about to have some.
Keine
W-Would that be OK...? I don't want you to think having tea was my real reason for coming here...
Of course! Please join us!
The more the merrier!
Keine
Thank you, PLAYER. I'll take you up on your offer.
Keine
Actually, I wanted to talk to you.
Keine
Why don't you come to the school next time? The kids, Mokou, fairies, and youkai will be delighted to see you!
With pleasure! Thank you!
Akyuu
All right then. We shouldn't keep our guests standing! Let's sit down and enjoy the tea!
Kosuzu
Miss Keine, PLAYER! Come take a seat over here!
Keine
Hey, no need to pull me...
