Lossy's Journal

Joon

Hey, Reimu! I'm here!

Reimu

Oh, Joon? What are you doing here? As you can see, I'm busy right now.

Joon

I was looking for Shion, but... what's with this strange and sinister aura I'm sensing?

Reimu

Oh, that. It's coming from this mysterious box Byakuren asked me to take care of.

Reimu

Nothing good comes from opening things like these, so I've been getting ready with my purification rod and everything.

Joon

...Then why do you look so relaxed? Is it OK for you to leave such a dangerous box until later while you have a cup of tea?

Reimu

I'm just gathering my strength for the fight to come, OK?!

Reimu

Besides, I put a sign on it that says, "Danger! Don't open!" So I'm sure it's fine.

Joon

Well, if you say so.

Reimu

*sigh* Now you've gone and made me worried. Hmm, where did I put my purification rod?

Reimu

But I really doubt anyone would want to open such a suspicious box anyway―

Shion

Argh... Grrrr... Just a little more...!

Shion

*sob* It won't open! Grrrrr!

Reimu & Joon

Hey! Stop that! What are you doing?!

Shion

Huh?! What? What is it?! Wait... what is THAT?! Uaaaaah?!

Reimu & Yorigami Sisters

EEEEK?!

Aya

Now, it's finally that time of year again. Time for the Herald of Spring Cup!

Aya

This is Gensokyo's annual tournament to foretell the coming of spring by shooting bullets charged with energetic cheers.

Wow!

(Isn't this the inaugural tournament...?)

Aya

Live coverage will be provided by me, the ever-energetic Aya Shameimaru. Nitori Kawashiro will handle the commentary.

Nitori

Yes. I'm looking forward to today's events.

Aya

Yeah, so Nitori, what do you think about this strange misfortune that's been getting stronger lately?

Aya

From what I hear, Yukarin, the supercell of misfortune, was moving up across Gensokyo.

Nitori

Yukarin... It's said that it was named as such because it's just so ominous!

Aya

It seems there's also a rise in people becoming despondent all across Gensokyo, coinciding with Yukarin's rise in power...

Nitori

Yeah... The bad luck is pretty terrible, but what's worse is that spring won't come if your heart's full of doom and gloom.

Aya

That's where the Herald of Spring Cup comes in! The competitors' Cheer Power will make all of Gensokyo cheerful!

Nitori

Yes. We plan to collect everyone's cheer into the winner's trophy and then chuck it at Yukarin.

Nitori

The clockwise storm of misfortune and the counterclockwise vortex of cheer will clash and cancel each other out!

Aya

The Cheer Points will accumulate in the trophy based on how excited the crowd becomes! Isn't that right?

Nitori

Exactly. I'm sure there will be more than enough Cheer Power by the end of the festival!

Aya

And that's not all! The competitor who gets the most points will receive a lavish prize from the festival's hosts!

Nitori

Yes! They'll receive the ultimate kappa-certified energy drink! Nine months' worth of Cucumber Shiriko!

Aya

And also a subscription to the Bunbunmaru Newspaper extras, which are so popular with the truth-seeking, languid youth!

Wow! Really?! A Cucumber... Shiriko...?

Yay! Now I can read extras... whenever I want?

Nitori

Also, everyone who comes to the stadium will receive free Doll Festival arare rice cracker snacks―so come on by.

Aya

Oh yes, speaking of the stadium, it was specially made just for this event!

Aya

I'm still amazed you managed to build all this in a single day. I doubt anyone, but kappa could work so fast.

Nitori

Well, even us kappa would need more than a day if we didn't happen to find the blueprints in the river.

Aya

Wow! You're really lucky that the blueprints you needed just happened to float down the river to you! What a coincidence!

Nitori

Maybe they got thrown away when construction got canceled somewhere... Oh, it looks like we're about ready to start.

Aya

Yeah, it looks like it! Thank you for waiting, everyone. The competitors will soon make their appearance!

Hina

This has gotten pretty bad, hasn't it? Who could've guessed that such a weird misfortune would spread everywhere?!

Hina

Take a look at Lily over there.

Lily White

Spring...? That's nice...

Lily White

Tell me when it's spring... OK?

Spring will never come at this rate...

Yuuka

Yes. Lily shouldn't be like that this close to spring... This is much more serious than I first thought.

Komachi

You're telling me. The Sanzu River is even more gloomy than usual. We've gotta fix this, and fast.

Kokoro

We cannot let everyone's hope and cheer die out... Now, it's finally my turn to share MY cheer with the world!

Yuuka

You don't look all that cheerful with that expressionless face of yours. But I suppose I'm not known for my cheer either.

Hina

I really appreciate the help, everyone. I don't think I'd be able to handle all this on my own...

Rinnosuke

Hey. Good, I see that most of you are here.

Yuuka

Oh, this is a surprise. Are you also going to be competing?

Rinnosuke

Me, competing? Of course not. I was just asked by Yukari to deliver the uniforms to the competitors.

Rinnosuke

I've prepared the perfect costumes for exciting and cheering up the crowd.

Are these costumes from the outside world?

Rinnosuke

Yeah, apparently. From what I understand, they're used in competitive cheering competitions called cheerleading.

Kokoro

So we'll battle and cheer in costumes made especially for it. Then we'll blow up the misfortune with the cup full of cheer!

Hina

By making everyone happy, I'll be able to fulfill my duty in removing misfortune from Gensokyo.

Yuuka

This is quite the undertaking...

Rinnosuke

This is all thanks to the kappa, really. I never imagined they could build such a magnificent stadium in so little time.

Rinnosuke

OK, it's almost time for you all to take the stage, have you got everything you need?

Shion

Wait!

Rinnosuke

Oh, good. Shion made it. All right, I'll take my leave now, so I don't get in the way of you changing.

Let's do this, everyone!

Hyped Competitiors

Yeah!

Aya

Sorry for the wait, everyone! The performers who'll liven up this festival have arrived! It's the Five Heralds of Spring!

Everyone! Take the Five Heralds of Spring formation!

Five Heralds of Spring... Is that our group name?

Aya

First out is the spinning and twirling finger-crossing master! Watch her spin, spin, and take off! It's Hina Kagiyama!

Hina

W-Wait! I didn't know we had to make an introduction... Ummm, hello everyone! I'm the nagashi-bina, Hina Kagiyama!

Nitori

Hina agreed to advertise Cucumber Shiriko for us, so I hope she does well...

Aya

Next up is the chatty guide and counselor from the Sanzu River, Komachi Onozuka! Wait, isn't she meant to be working?!

Komachi

Hey everyone! Don't worry. I'm all out of paid leave! But yeah, I'll listen if there's anything you want to get off your chest!

Nitori

Great, she's so full of energy! And I'd like to take her up on that offer! I'm hungry and dead tired from working all night...

Aya

Well, I have good news! The earnest and expressive poker face, Hata no Kokoro has arrived with delicious bento!

Kokoro

Come take a look. These will surely fill you up! They're fun and delicious Heartfelt Bento―Edible art made from the heart!

Nitori

Wow! I didn't expect one of the competitors to be selling bento. I think I'll go buy one later...

Aya

Next is the great rafflesia of Gensokyo! She attacks with the fury of a storm and leaves nothing but ruin! It's Yuuka Kazami!

Yuuka

Aya... I will show you the true terror of flowers later.

Nitori

Aya, please don't antagonize the competitors. Her glare is going to melt my seat!

Aya

Ayaya... My bad! But now you can give a standing ovation for the final competitor!

Aya

The poverty god also has a cheerful uniform! It's Shion Yorigami! Will she use her bad luck to defeat the misfortune?

Shion

One, two... Hurray! Three, four... Hurray! Leeeeet's GOOOO! OK. I have to give it my all today...

Nitori

There's an intense aura... No, a hunger about her! She also seems a little different today, so expect some excitement!

Aya

PLAYER will be supporting the competitors and our thanks go out to Rinnosuke for providing the costumes!

I'll give everyone my full support!

This is going to be great!

Aya

Now then, before we kick off this tournament... let's give all the competitors a bit of a warmup!

Hina

I see. This does look like a good warmup. All right, let's have a little battle of bullets exercise!

Komachi

Hehe, we could've beaten them in our sleep. I do feel nice and warmed up now, though!

Aya

Wow, that was impressive. I'm sure this will be a hotly contested tournament!

Aya

Now then, it's time I explain the rules for the first match―The Cheer Up Battle!

Aya

It's simple. A group of unhappy and forlorn people will soon enter the arena... They are your targets!

Aya

The competitors will have to cheer them up before time runs out.

Yuuka

Oh, is that all?

Kokoro

This is probably one of those easier said than done sort of things...

Nitori

Exactly. The competitor who makes the most targets the happiest will be declared the winner of this match.

Nitori

You can freely choose your targets. So you could choose a close friend or someone who's usually always cheerful.

Aya

You'll first try to exorcise the target's misfortune through a battle of bullets and then try to make them happy with cheers.

Aya

Also, for this match, there's a chance to receive bonus points at the discretion of us―the commentators!

Shion

Bonus points...! I-I hope I can get some...

Hina

They're probably not something you can aim for, so it'd be better to focus on sincerely trying to help the targets.

Nitori

The points will gather in the trophy and will be used to get rid of the misfortune. So try and get as much as you can.

Aya

All right, let's get this started then, shall we? Come on in, Targets!

Aya

Look, the cheerless targets are flowing into the stadium now! Which competitor will make the first move?

Hina

I can't believe so many were affected by the misfortune... I don't know who to start saving first.

Let's just try and save them all one by one.

...I'm sure that bullets will solve everything.

Hina

Y-You're right. I can't just stand here worrying. Let's go one by one and save them properly, starting with...

Aya

Oh, Hina is the first off the blocks!

Aya

She has the most experience with exorcising misfortune, but which target will she choose? Any ideas, Nitori?

Aya

...Huh? Nitori? Where have you―?

Nitori

...

Aya

Ayayayaya. What's going on?! Nitori was sitting next to me just a moment ago, but now she's down in the arena!

Momiji

Miss Hina, please help Miss Nitori.

Hina

OK. Leave it to me.

Aya

Wh-What?! It seems Nitori is one of the targets! That's a surprise!

Aya

But what could have possibly caused this?

Hina

*sigh* It's obvious. Take a good look at Nitori once more.

Nitori

*sob* My whole body's... sore! I'm tired! I've got no energy or cheer left!

Aya

Oh... Um, Nitori?

Nitori

I feel exhausted no matter what I try! My whole body is burning up! What should I do at times like these, Hina?

Hina

...See? Now do you understand?

Aya

...Yes. I don't get it at all!

Nitori

Oh, I know! I'm sure "that" would make me feel better... I'm sure a drink of "that" will cheer me up...

Hina

Yes. Cucumbers have all the right nutrients to combat fatigue! Get rid of misfortune with Cucumber Shiriko!

Aya

Wow... I really didn't expect this! What ARE we seeing right now?! Find out after the battle of bullets!

Nitori

I really want a drink of that super happy drink... I'm sure it'll make me cheerful again!

Hina

We've got to hurry! Hang in there, Nitori! I'll give you a shot of shirikodama! CUUUCUUUUMBEEER SHIRIKO!

Nitori

Whoooooa! I feel so full of energy! The nutrients of the cucumber have gone right to my brain!

Hina

That's the power of Cucumber Shiriko! Buy one now for the low, low price of one shirikodama!

Nitori

The bullets rid me of my misfortune, and the Shiriko cheered me up. Now I can focus on the commentary!

Aya

Yeah, I was a little worried for a moment there... But really, what was all that?

Aya

In any case, Hina's bullet exorcism was magnificent! Do you have anything to add, Momiji?

Momiji

Hmm, Miss Nitori's misfortune is gone now, but she did still work an awful lot... Shouldn't she take a rest?

Nitori

No, I'm sure I can pull through. Besides, I can just get another one of those special drinks from Hina!

Nitori

Yes, the ultimate kappa-certified energy drink! A Cucumber Shiriko!

Hina

Yeah. You've just proven how effective it is. Why don't you have another, Cucumber Shiriko?!

Nitori

I'd love one. *glug* *glug*

Nitori

Aaaaaah! I felt 100 times more energetic with one bottle, but two bottles gave me 1000 times the energy!

Momiji

M-Miss Nitori?! You were so tired before, but now...!

Aya

Look at this, everyone! Nitori is at full stamina! This is the power of Shiriko!

Nitori

That's right! This is the pinnacle of kappa innovation, and its name is Cucumber Shiriko!

Hina

It relieves fatigue, prevents illness, and makes you rich! And you've seen how effective it is against misfortune!

Nitori

If you drink a whole lot, I'm sure your every wish will be fulfilled! Everything's possible with Shiriko!

Nitori

So everyone, go and get some from Hina and drink as much as you can!

Komachi

...What are we watching right now?

Yuuka

It looks to me like they foolishly made too much of that drink and are trying to get rid of it all by advertising...

Kokoro

I see... so that's a marketing ploy!

Is their plan to make a fortune or fight misfortune?

Shion

Either way, Hina's misfortune exorcism sure was amazing... I really have to give this my all...

Hina

I'll be handing these out along with my cheer, so call out if you want one, OK?!

Yuuka

*sigh* This commentary lacks all decorum. Can you even call this commentary?

Hina did great, didn't she?!

That was a pretty blatant advertisement...

Yuuka

You think so? ...Well, whatever. I'll just do what I came here to do. Now then, who shall I pick...?

Daiyousei

Hmmm... What should I do?

Yuuka

Oh, what's the matter?

Daiyousei

Miss Yuuka?! I'm fine, but... Cirno...

Cirno

*sob* I'm only second-rate...!

Yuuka

*sigh* Don't you usually always say that you're the strongest?

Daiyousei

It seems that all the pranks she's tried lately have failed...

It looks like she's lost her confidence...

Yuuka

...This is just like Lily White. Hina was correct―this misfortune is no laughing matter.

Cirno

*sob*

Cirno

I always thought that I was the best and the strongest, but now I've realized the truth...

Cirno

It took me so long to figure it out because she was always by my side... Dai is the real number one!

Daiyousei

Huh?! What?! Wh-Why me?

Cirno

*sob* I'm only the second strongest... You're number one, Dai.

Daiyousei

Cut that out, Cirno... I don't want to be number one...!

Cirno

But you're so strong and cute and smart... And you always praise me!

Yuuka

Oh? That's adorable. And those are all good reasons.

Daiyousei

Y-You really think so...? But, no, I think Cirno has got to be number one...

Cirno

*sob* And Dai's really good at singing lullabies, patting me on the back, and everything she cooks is so yummy!

Daiyousei

Stop! Please don't talk about that here! It's so embarrassing!

Aya

Wow! What a stunning revelation. I should take some notes. "Good at back pats"...

Daiyousei

Stop it!

Cirno

But me... All I can do is make ice and freeze stuff!

Yuuka

Well, you are an ice fairy, so it's normal for you to do those things, isn't it?

Daiyousei

She's right, Cirno. Let's play by freezing frogs again!

Cirno

But all the frogs thawed out and hopped away...

Daiyousei

Let's catch the frogs again, then! I'll help you look for them!

Cirno

But... my prank failed again today... and I couldn't make the drink freeze...

Daiyousei

That wasn't a failure, Cirno! Everyone said the ice-cold Shiriko was delicious―they loved it!

Yuuka

I honestly don't care which of you is stronger.

Yuuka

But this is a shame because I actually thought you were a fairy with some potential.

Yuuka

All right. I will have to beat some back-bone into this spineless ice fairy.

Aya

Whoa! Yuuka has suddenly unleashed a powerful pre-emptive attack! Is Cirno OK?

Cirno

*cough* *cough* Stop that! I'm not the strongest! I'm number two! And I'm not gonna let you change that!

Nitori

It looks like she's not hurt... but still not OK. Let's see what Yuuka does next.

Yuuka

OK, let's do this, Daiyousei. We will crush her into the ground until she stops even thinking about talking back.

Daiyousei

O-OK! I'll bring back the real Cirno!

Cirno

No matter what anyone says―Dai's the STRONGEST! I won't let you change that, and that's why I can't lose!

Aya

Amazing! I've never seen her this fast! Is this the hidden strength of fairies?! No, is this something only Cirno can do?!

Aya

The Yuuka and Daiyousei duo isn't backing down! They're closing in, and it looks like they'll shoot the final bullet!

Daiyousei

Hurry up and go back to being the strongest, Cirno! If you don't, you'll...

Yuuka

...end up eating a mighty mass of cheer.

Aya

Whoa! This energy is off the charts! They unleashed an intense attack at the same time as the warning! How efficient!

Aya

What will happen to Cirno if she gets hit by so much cheer?!

Cirno

Oh no! I'm going to lose! Even though Dai is the strongest!

Yuuka

Just admit it already. You, Cirno, the most energetic in all of Gensokyo, are the number one in her eyes... Accept it!

Cirno

Uoooaaaah! So I really am... the STRONGEST after all?!

Nitori

It seems like the fight to decide the number one in all Gensokyo has finally come to an end...

Is that what we were fighting for?!

Cirno

It seems I got really worked up over the silliest things. But I guess shouting got rid of my doubts.

Cirno

Dai IS the strongest, but so am I...

Cirno

And if Dai says I'm number one, perhaps I really am...

Daiyousei

Yeah! I'm fine with that, Cirno! You're really the best when you're cheerful and full of energy!

Cirno

You're right! I'm the STRONGEST in all Gensokyo! Yuuka, I'll prove that to you in a battle of bullets one day! Thanks!

Yuuka

Hehe, it seems you have returned to being the usual Cirno. The strongest, you say? It's certainly something to aim for.

Aya

But you should be careful... if you get too strong, you'll end up like Yuu―Uaaaah?!

Yuuka

Birds should keep quiet if they don't want to get shot.

Nitori

It looks like my partner's microphone has been sent flying by some mysterious power... Yep. A mysterious power.

Nitori

Now then, let's check in on the other competitors, shall we? Please hurry up and get back here, Aya!

Aya

Phew, that was a close one..! I thought I wasn't coming back for a second there!

Nitori

You say that, but I saw you with your camera out. You took a picture while getting attacked, didn't you?

Aya

Yes, I actually took quite a nice picture. Ahem...

Aya

Now then, let's get back to the serious commentary! Who's going to step up next after Hina and Yuuka?!

Kokoro

Hmm, Hina and Yuuka are in real misfortune-exorcising form. I'll never be able to catch up to them at this rate!

Calm down, Kokoro!

Take a deep breath...

Kokoro

O-OK... *inhale*...*exhale* All right, I've calmed down a little.

Kokoro

...But who should I try and cheer up?

Rinnosuke

Hello again. You don't seem to be faring so well.

Oh, are you also a target, Mister Rinnosuke?

Rinnosuke

Yeah, I am. I didn't realize it myself, but it seems that strange misfortune has also gotten to me.

Kokoro

Oh really? What kind of cheer are you after, then?

Rinnosuke

Cheer? Well, I do need some of that, but what I really want right now is some luck.

Rinnosuke

I've been having a real string of bad luck recently...

Kokoro

Bad luck? What do you mean?

Rinnosuke

Yeah, let me give you an example... Some of the merchandise I recently acquired disappeared when I took my eyes off them.

Kokoro

Hm? Are you dealing in goods that disappear on their own? Are they phantom tools or something?

Rinnosuke

No, of course not, but it kind of feels like they were since they vanished so quickly.

Rinnosuke

Also, each time I replace the paper for my shoji door, it gets torn by newspapers that come flying into my shop.

Kokoro

*stare*

Aya

Ayaya... It wasn't me! Well, it wasn't me this morning anyway―I was busy getting ready for the commentary!

Maybe phantoms really are to blame.

Kokoro

Yeah, I bet that's it! But you really are unlucky to get newspapers delivered to you...

Rinnosuke

I wish it was only newspapers... Let me tell you about the terrible luck I had just the other day.

Rinnosuke

I had just stepped out of my shop when a huge washtub came down from the sky and fell on me. It almost broke my neck...

Marisa

Wow, really? That's the first I've heard of that. You really are unlucky, aren't you, Kourin?

Marisa

Look, I heard about the misfortune, so I brought some salt!

Aya

What's this? Marisa has arrived at the stadium out of nowhere and appears to be carrying a washtub full of salt!

Nitori

Yes, that is a lovely golden washtub, isn't it? I bet that would really hurt if it came crashing down on your head!

Kokoro

*stare*

Rinnosuke

*stare*

Marisa

Wh-What's up with you all? Why are you all looking at me like you saw a phantom?

Rinnosuke

I didn't want to believe it, but everything points to her being the physical manifestation of the misfortune befalling me...

Kokoro

All right then, leave her to me!

Marisa

Oh? I don't really get what's going on, but if it's a battle of bullets you want, count me in!

Marisa

I see. I didn't realize you had it that rough... *munch* *munch* Sorry, Kourin.

Rinnosuke

*munch* Well, I know it was just an accident, Marisa, but you should be more careful with that washtub―it's really heavy.

Yes, we wouldn't want anyone to break their neck...

You should listen to Mister Rinnosuke... *munch*

Marisa

Yeah, OK. I'll be careful with how I use my washtub... *munch* *munch* This bento is really yummy.

Rinnosuke

I feel cheerful just from eating. *munch* munch* This may be the luckiest thing that's happened to me recently.

Kokoro

Yes, they're delicious, aren't they?! You should both eat a whole lot and fill up with cheer.

Marisa

Thanks. This bento is so yummy! I think I'll take another to have for dinner!

Kokoro

Marvelous! But be careful not to overeat, OK?

Aya

Wow, this is an interesting development, isn't it, Nitori? But how should we judge this?

Nitori

Hmm, I'm not sure they exorcised any misfortune, but Kokoro's expressions were cute... So she gets a bonus point!

Aya

That makes sense, and Rinnosuke is smiling again, so... OK! A bonus point it is!

Komachi

Wow, everyone's really going at it. I can feel myself getting more cheerful and energetic just from watching.

You seem more relaxed than energetic to me...

How have you been faring, Komachi?

Komachi

Yeah, I'm just taking it slow and steady like always. I'd just be wasting energy if I rushed out for no reason.

Komachi

Oh, good timing. I think I've found someone in a spot of bother... How's it going, you two?

Yuyuko

Oh my, we were waiting for you. Youmu really needs your help―It's an emergency.

Youmu

I'm not really sure what I need help with... I'm only here because Lady Yuyuko insisted that I come with her.

Komachi

I see... So what's this emergency, then?

Yuyuko

You see, Youmu hasn't been as cheerful lately. I'm fairly sure she's been affected by some weird misfortune.

Youmu

There's nothing to worry about, Lady Yuyuko. Look, I'm the same as I always am.

Komachi

Hmm, yes, you don't look all that unhappy to me... Could you try expressing how cheerful you are a bit more, just in case?

Youmu

A bit more cheerful? Umm... How about this?

Was that... cheerful?

Yuyuko

She's not, right? Youmu needs to have her misfortune exorcised! Please, can't you do something?

Komachi

Hmm, I think you might be overacting a little. She doesn't seem all that different from normal.

Yuyuko

Wait! There are more signs that she needs help! She has only been eating a single bowl of rice for breakfast recently!

Youmu

No, that's about what I normally have. Though I do admit that there's usually a difference in the amount we both eat...

Yuyuko

I also saw Youmu take a break and drink tea after practicing her sword swings. She must have less endurance than normal!

Youmu

That's my daily routine. Besides, didn't you drink a cup of tea with me, Lady Yuyuko?

Yuyuko

There's more... Look at Youmu's phantom half. It looks more transparent!

Youmu

Wh-What? Hmm, maybe it is a little... Wait, no! It's always this transparent. I'm pretty sure!

Aya

What's this? Komachi is being forced to watch a comedic skit between a mistress and her servant! How will she respond?

What should we do?

Komachi

...I've got no idea! But I'm gonna put an end to this one way or another!

Komachi

I'll exorcise the misfortune out of the both of them! That'll sort things out!

Yuyuko

M-Me too?!

Aya

That's a surprise! Komachi says she will exorcise both parties! Is this a reckless decision or a stroke of genius?!

Yuyuko

Oh no. Wh-What should we do?! All right, Youmu, let's fight back!

Youmu

OK. I will cut down anyone who endangers Lady Yuyuko―no matter who they are!

Youmu

Urk, I wasn't strong enough... I'm so sorry, Lady Yuyuko...

Yuyuko

...No. You did well. In fact, it seems that I may have been the one who needed to open her eyes.

Youmu

L-Lady Yuyuko...?

Komachi

Ahaha, I wasn't sure that would work, but it seems it did. Youmu wasn't the one affected by misfortune, after all.

Yuyuko

*sigh* They do say worrying makes you sick, but it seems like the opposite is also true.

Youmu

It didn't even cross my mind that Lady Yuyuko could be the one affected by that weird misfortune...!

Komachi

Everyone makes mistakes, so you can't just take everything your mistress says for granted―you've gotta think for yourself.

Youmu

Yes, you've really opened my eyes. Thank you so much.

Yuyuko

My eyes have been opened too. I can't believe I was so worried about all that. I'm sorry for all the fuss I caused.

Komachi

Don't be sorry. That's why we're here, after all―to make you all cheerful again!

I guess that's sorted then. Problem solved!

Yuyuko

Yes. Now we will return the cheer we have received from you with our own cheers from the stands.

Youmu

Yes! I'm not sure if this will be enough to return the favor, but we'll give you our full support. Please give it your all!

Komachi

You bet I will! And you two, make sure you don't get caught by that misfortune again, OK?!

Aya

That was a shocking twist, wasn't it?! I never would have guessed that Yuyuko was the target!

Nitori

Komachi wasn't swayed by preconceptions and listened with an open mind... Brilliant! She taught us all a valuable lesson!

Aya

Yeah, it's just as you say, Nitori! When in doubt―shoot bullets! I can't wait to see what happens next!

Shion

Urgh... I can't make any progress no matter what I try... But I can't give up now...

Aya

Checking in on Shion now―she seems to be struggling. Maybe this was too difficult a task for a poverty god, after all.

Nitori

Yes, she's more suited to spreading misfortune. It'll all come down to how determined she is.

Shion

*sob* I know that already! But... what can I do...?

Don't worry. Calm down and focus!

You just have to seize your chance when it comes!

Shion

O-OK... I have to calm down and seize my chance... my chance...

Akyuu

Hmm... It's no good, I can't think of anything, but I'm almost out of time!

It looks like Akyuu is also a target.

Shion

She seems even more stressed out than me... Maybe she'll tell me what's wrong if I ask...

Aya

It appears that Shion has chosen Akyuu! She looks incredibly stressed... will Shion's cheers be able to reach her?

Shion

Uh... U-Umm...

Akyuu

Wha?! A-Are you talking to me? I can't really talk right now...

Shion

Umm, uhh, I want to help, so... could you at least tell me what's bothering you...?

Akyuu

Sorry, but I really don't have the time. I'll miss the deadline if I don't hurry!

Shion

A deadline...? Are you worried about a book you're writing?

Akyuu

Uhh... No, I'm not writing anything! No, umm, I mean, I have a friend who is really worried about this book...

(She's talking about herself!)

Akyuu

My friend is struggling with writer's block. She cannot come up with any good ideas, and there's no time to check references.

Akyuu

So she came here to watch the competition for a change of pace, but it has just made her tired, and nothing's working...!

(She is definitely talking about herself!)

What should we do, Shion?

Shion

Yeah... I get that! I really understand how she feels! Because I feel the same way right now!

Akyuu

M-Miss Shion?!

Shion

It makes you feel so helpless when you don't know why you keep on failing no matter what you try! That's what I feel too!

Shion

Once this starts, you keep trying to find a solution, but you can't, and then you start thinking more negative thoughts...

Akyuu

Yes... Yes, that's it exactly! I know I have to think of something, but no ideas come to mind...

Shion

Yeah, I know! It's just like that! Umm, PLAYER, how do we fix this?

Akyuu

Miss PLAYER, please teach us!

What? You're asking me?!

Akyuu & Shion

Please! How do we come up with a solution?

Umm... Maybe you should try exercising!

An idea might come to you after moving around.

Akyuu

I see! That might actually work! All right, then―

Shion

It's worth a shot. Yeah... Let's do this, Akyuu! I-It's time for some battle of bullets exercise!

Akyuu

*huff* *huff* Physical exertion isn't bad once in a while...

Shion

Yeah... S-So did it work?

Akyuu

Hmm... The tension in my back and shoulders is gone, but no ideas came to me...

Akyuu

I give up! Even though I exercised so much, I didn't come up with anything... It's over. It's all over...

Shion

Let's go. Let's go. Let's go, Akyuu! You can do it! Write that book!

Aya

Wow! Shion hasn't given up! She's covered in sweat, and tears and snot are streaming down her face, but she's still cheering!

Akyuu

That's kind of beautiful... Oh! I noticed this earlier, but that stance of yours...

Shion

A-Akyuu...?

Akyuu

That style makes you look strong yet also weak and brave! I get it now! Being weak but courageous is true strength!

Akyuu

Readers have always loved this sort of thing! This is just what the story needs―a weak yet brave protagonist!

Aya

It seems she's come up with a fantastic hook for the story!

Aya

Wait, an idea for the protagonist? Has her friend not started writing yet? I'm not so sure this problem is solved!

Nitori

Yes. It seems she's busy patting herself on the back and has forgotten that she still hasn't done any work. It happens a lot.

Shion

Thank goodness! I don't really get it, but I'm so glad I was able to help!

Hina

Are you OK, Shion? It looked like you were struggling a little...

Shion

Oh, H-Hina? Yeah... It wasn't going so well at first...

Akyuu

It's thanks to that struggle that you were able to help me. A masterpiece is forming in my mind at this very moment!

Aya

No! It's no good in your head! You have to actually put pen to paper and write! You have to make it a book!

Akyuu

But... I'm so tired. I feel like I'm going to lose consciousness before writing... no, I mean before telling... my friend...

Shion

Hang in there! You can do it, Akyuu! Wake up! Oh no... I'm tired too... I can't stay awake any longer!

Hina

*sigh* Are you OK? No, you're not, are you? All right. Here, drink this.

Akyuu

Oh, thank you. I'll have a sip... *gulp*

Shion

Aaaah... I feel alive again! This is great! How are you feeling, Akyuu?

Akyuu

Phew... Yes, I feel strong! I can clearly picture your brave cheering in my mind once more!

Akyuu

I can't stay here. I have to hurry to put this into words! No, I mean to tell my friend! I'll see you all later!

Shion

Oh... She's gone. Did that.... go OK?

Hina

I think that went pretty well. From what I can tell, it seems you exorcised the misfortune.

Shion

Thank goodness... Now, all that's left is the scoring...

Aya

All right! That does it for the first match!

Aya

We'll now begin to calculate how cheerful each of the contestants made their targets!

Aya

OK, thank you for your patience, everyone! It's finally time to reveal the scores! It was quite the spectacle, wasn't it?

Nitori

Yes, the first match certainly had its ups and downs. I wonder how many Cheer Points everyone got?!

Aya

It looks like there is quite a lot in the trophy―it might even fill up before the end of the final match at this rate...

Aya

Now, let's reveal the current leader... It's only by the slimmest of margins, but Hina scored the most points!

Hina

Me?! I'm glad, but I never thought I'd be in the lead!

Nitori

It should be noted that helping Shion out actually made a slight difference to her score!

Aya

In second place and third, we have Yuuka and Komachi! They both got an incredible amount of technical and Cheer Points!

Nitori

The roar from the crowd when Yuuka and Daiyousei hit Cirno with that massive ball of Cheer Power was something else.

Aya

Komachi's clever conversational skills were also impressive. Who could've guessed that Youmu was the same as always?!

Yuuka

Well, I suppose I'm happy with that. Hina is more experienced with handling misfortune, after all.

Komachi

Third, eh? I guess that means I don't have to worry too much about catching up.

Aya

Then finally, not too far behind are Kokoro and Shion. They both scored quite a surprising number of points!

Nitori

I expect that how Kokoro will fare in the next match will largely depend on how many bento she can serve!

Aya

Shion has a lot of hopeful fans in the crowd who were inspired by her endearing performance earlier!

Nitori

It's still anyone's game to win!

Shion

*sigh* I guess I still have much to improve on before getting even close to the others...

Kokoro

Nonsense! You just need to make up the difference in the next match! Our battle has only just started!

Aya

How will these results affect the competitors in the next match?! Let's find out, shall we?!

Aya

The second match is on a whole other scale! It's the Gensokyo Battle of Bullets Relief Race!

Nitori

As you may have guessed, it's a race to see who passes through all the checkpoints and returns here the fastest!

Aya

It starts here, goes through the Human Village, then Kourindou, the Bamboo Forest of the Lost, and Hakurei Shine!

Hina

This sounds more like a marathon than just a race...

Nitori

You don't just have to be fast, OK? You'll get bonus points for exorcising misfortune and helping people along the way!

Kokoro

Great! That means I'll have plenty of chances to serve my bento!

Shion

...Hmm, this doesn't look good. I doubt PLAYER will be able to stick with me the whole time...

Aya

Don't worry, Shion! Miss PLAYER will be watching over you via the stadium's screens along with the crowd!

Nitori

Yeah! The Kappa Camera Crew will show us what you're up to, and you'll be able to hear us through the loudspeaker!

I'll be cheering you all on from here.

That's the loudspeaker from the Airsoft Festival, right?

Yuuka

I see. That is reassuring, isn't it?

Shion

Y-Yeah, I'll give it my all...!

Aya

All right then, let's get this race underway! Competitors, take your places on the starting line!

Aya

All the competitors are ready! Begin the countdown!

Aya

On your mark―Get set―GOOOO!

Komachi

All right, I guess it's time to show my boating prowess! Later!

Hina

Oh no you don't! Don't think you can get a lead on me that easily!

Aya

Komachi is hot off the blocks and dashes out of the stadium! What?! She's traveling by boat! Wouldn't it be faster to fly?

Aya

Out next is Hina, who is hot on Komachi's heels!

Yuuka

That's quite an impressive speed. But from back here, I can monitor your every move...

Shion

I was too slow off the start! But I'm sure I can still catch up... Hopefully.

Aya

Yuuka and Shion are off as well! They've got their eyes on the leaders and are looking for any opportunity to overtake them!

Nitori

Oh? I can't see Kokoro anywhere. Where is she...?

Kokoro

Thanks for waiting, everyone! Dig into your delicious Heartfelt Bento!

Aya

Wh-What?! Kokoro started selling bento instead of starting the race!

Nitori

*munch* *munch* This is so yummy! I didn't expect a rush of people lining up to get bento to be the first race we'd see.

Kokoro

Phew, business is booming. I guess this is what they mean when they say the customer always comes first...

But you're going to get left behind...

You won't be able to catch up if you don't hurry...

Kokoro

Oh, whoops. I got sidetracked...! Ch-Charge!

Nitori

Phew, that was delicious. Bento are important, but you shouldn't forget about the tournament you're in.

Aya

Anyways, all of our competitors have now left the stadium. Let's check in on them through the Kappa Camera Crew.

Nitori

It looks like the competitors are starting to arrive at the Human Village. Who's in the lead?

Yuuka

Hehe, I have already caught up. Are you both planning on earning your points at the Human Village?

Komachi

You bet I am! It looks like there's a whole lot of people here who could use a hand!

Hina

You're right... But I don't want to stay here for long! I think I'll pass through as fast as I can.

Aya

Yuuka has caught up, and there are now three competitors vying for the lead! But wait, Hina has danced out ahead!

Nitori

Hina probably wants to keep on going. But since she's in the lead, it means she'll be the first to encounter any obstacles.

Hina

H-Hey, Kappa! Get out of the way!

Kappa Camerawoman

Ack!

Hina

*sigh* I can't afford to lose my lead here, so I'll just have to sweep them aside with bullets!

Hina

Phew, I made it through them all. Now I can hurry on ahead!

Aya

Hina! You don't get any points for beating kappa!

Hina

Oh, is that right? Is there a penalty then...?

Nitori

The cameras and the kappa are tough, so I'm sure they're fine! ...But I feel bad for them, so please stop!

Aya

Now, I wonder what the competitors are doing at the Human Village?! Kappa Camara Crew, please get back to filming!

Aya

Hina swept aside the Kappa Camera Crew and has cleared the first checkpoint! But it looks like Yuuka is in a spot of bother!

Yuuka

This is annoying. Why are there phantoms in the Human Village?

Nitori

It's rare for phantoms to appear in the village. Perhaps this strange misfortune is to blame.

Aya

Meanwhile, Komachi has headed toward the village center. It looks like she's listening to the villagers' troubles.

Komachi

Spring-themed sweets other than cherry blossom mochi...? What about sweet yet sour plum mochi? They're in season.

Komachi

Your soba noodles aren't selling because of the cold wave? Hmm, why don't you just serve them hot in a noodle soup?

Kosuzu

Umm, can you please give me some advice too?!

Komachi

Sure, no problem! What do you need help with?

Kosuzu

Thank you. I think it's because of the cold wave or that strange misfortune, but I haven't been getting many customers...

Komachi

Yeah, it's not that easy to go outside and visit a store when it's so cold.

Komachi

So why don't you try bringing your store to them? You could start a home delivery service.

Kosuzu

Right, I could deliver books! That's a great idea!

Komachi

Yeah! Home delivery isn't all that new or innovative―I'm sure a book rental store could do it too!

Aya

Komachi is hearing each person out and giving due consideration to their troubles. She's gaining a lot of points!

Even more people have started to crowd around her!

Komachi

Sure, everyone's welcome. You can talk to me about anything!

Kokoro

In that case, can you please listen to my problem?!

Komachi

Wh-Why are you here?! W-Well, I guess it's fine. Go ahead, tell me!

Kokoro

OK. I was planning on serving my bento here in the village...

Kokoro

But no human customers came to buy any... I can't serve my bento if no one comes...

Komachi

Your bento have a reputation for being delicious, right? So there's probably another reason. Any ideas?

Kokoro

Hmm, I don't really know what the problem is. I've gotten plenty of phantom customers...

Komachi

W-Wait, hold on! That's the problem! Who would go to a bento store surrounded by phantoms?!

Kokoro

Oh... I see! You're right. The phantoms were making my bento go cold. So that was the problem!

Komachi

Y-Yeah... That's not quite it... but whatever. Leave this to me! Phantoms are my specialty!

Aya

What an exciting development! It seems Komachi is going to deal with the phantoms on Kokoro's behalf!

Nitori

Perhaps it was the bento that lured these mysterious phantoms here. They're pretty yummy, so it makes sense.

Komachi

Hey, Kokoro! It's fine now! I sent all the phantoms to Higan!

Kokoro

I knew you could do it, Komakoma! You're the best bullet battler in Higan!

Komachi

Ahaha, you flatterer! So, how are the bento sales going?

Kokoro

Thanks to your help, I sold all the bento I prepared for the Human Village! I think I'll sell some at the shrine next!

Komachi

That's great! I'm sure you know this already, but be careful in the bamboo forest, or you'll lose your way!

Kokoro

Thanks! OK, I'll be going now then! See you later!

Komachi

See ya! I'm just gonna take my time and follow when I'm ready, so don't wait up for me!

Aya

Kokoro is heading toward the next checkpoint, but Komachi is showing no sign of going anywhere.

Nitori

We really got to see how genuinely kind Komachi is just then. I'm looking forward to seeing how this will play out.

Aya

Phantoms delayed Yuuka, but she's now at the Bamboo Forest of the Lost after passing through the village and Kourindou.

Nitori

It looks like all the competitors are struggling to find a route through the forest. It's not called "of the Lost," for nothing!

Yuuka

*sigh* I've left it behind now, but I never expected Kourindou to be in such a state.

I-I'm sure it's still not that bad!

There was a sign out front that said, 'Supply Point'...

Rinnosuke

W-Wait! What did you say?! What's happened there in the short time I've been gone?!

Yuuka

Oh? Did you not see...? Well, it was just a bit of bad luck―Nothing to worry about.

Marisa

Really?! That sounds like fun! I'm gonna go check it out before you get there, Kourin!

Rinnosuke

Wh-Whaaat?! PLAYER, I have to go, so can I leave the rest to you?

Don't worry. I can handle this!

Go, Mister Rinnosuke! Hurry!

Rinnosuke

Thanks. I knew I could count on you! ...Hey, Marisa! Wait for me!

Yuuka

All right. There's no use worrying. I just have to think of a way to get through here without getting lost.

Yuuka

It would be easy if I could find a guide...

Reisen

Oh no... What should we do, Tewi?! If we don't find the ingredient in time, we'll...!

Tewi

No, we can't give up yet, Reisen. Let's just calm down, OK?

Reisen

How can I be calm?! If we don't find it, Master will...! I'm done, Tewi. I can't keep living anymore.

Tewi

Huuuhh? *sigh* You're overreacting. I'm sure we'll find the medicine ingredient in no time at all, so don't worry so much.

Reisen

Yeah, you're right. *sigh* I was worried over nothing. I'm going to sleep, so wake me when you find it, OK?

Tewi

Whoa! Now you're too calm! You can't fall asleep here, Reisen! Listen to me!

Yuuka

Oh? It looks like you need some help.

Reisen

Help? We don't need any help. I was just starting to lie down and relax. *sigh* This ground is so nice and cool...

Tewi

Yeah, she's been acting funny like this ever since this morning... I think she ate something she shouldn't have.

Yuuka

No, I'm fairly sure this is because of that strange misfortune going around.

Tewi

Oh, yeah, that's right. She did take a whole bunch of different medicines to try and ward off misfortune or something.

Yuuka

I see. Then the combination of those drugs is probably to blame.

Tewi

Either way, I'd like her to return to normal already. It was fun for a while, but I'm over it now...

Reisen

I get it now, Tewi. You've been with me through all this hardship and suffering... Yeah, in sickness and in health...

Tewi

Whoa?! She's started something again!

Reisen

Master won't forgive me if we don't find the ingredient, so I beg you, Tewi! Please, run away with me to the moon!

Tewi

No way!

Yuuka

Sorry to interrupt whatever it is you're doing, but I wanted to ask for your assistance.

Reisen

Eeek?! Who's that?! D-Don't tell me she's an assassin Master sent after us?!

Yuuka

Huh? ...How in the world did you come to that conclusion?

Reisen

Yeah... Yeah, of course. These are just the kind of obstacles that happen in all invisible love stories!

Tewi

So, can't you do something to fix this? ...Or is she gonna be like this forever?

Yuuka

*sigh* Don't worry. I'll sort her out. But in return, you're going to lead me through this bamboo forest.

Tewi

OK! It's a deal!

Reisen

You're trying to tear Tewi and me apart, aren't you?! I must exterminate this homewrecker!

Yuuka

You are the one who will be exterminated... But I do feel sorry for what you'll experience once you regain your sanity.

Reisen

Huh? Wh-What was I just thinking until now...? Wh-Whaaaaat?!

Yuuka

Phew, that should have calmed her down, even though she doesn't seem very calm at all...

Aya

It seems she has been fully cured...

Aya

By the way, you should know that everything you said earlier was heard by a whole stadium full of people...

Reisen

Noooo... I can't believe I said something so embarrassing! I'm done, Tewi. I can't keep living anymore.

(Be strong...!)

Tewi

*sigh* It's good she's back to normal. All right, I'll show you to the exit.

Yuuka

Oh, yes. Weren't you talking about searching for something earlier? What was it?

Tewi

We were looking for bamboo pollen, but we haven't been able to find any bamboo flowers.

Yuuka

Oh, I saw some near the Human Village. If you're after the pollen, please help with the pollination while you're there.

Reisen

What? There's a bamboo flower that close by?! Thank you so much for telling us!

Tewi

See, I told you it wouldn't be that hard to find! Come on, let's get going!

Aya

It's been a while since the first competitors entered the bamboo forest, but no one has reached the other side yet!

Nitori

I didn't expect everyone to get so lost. It's anyone's guess as to who will find the exit first!

Shion

*sob* Where am I...? Where's the exit?

Hmm, yes. Everyone is lost.

Shion

N-No way! Isn't this where I came from?

Hina

Oh, Shion! Great, you've caught up!

Shion

H-Hina?! C-Caught up...? What do you mean?

Hina

Yes. I was the first to enter the bamboo forest, but I've been wandering around lost all this time...

Hina

I've just found the path to the exit.

Shion

The exit?! Do you know the way out, Hina?

Hina

Yeah. I just met Tewi, and she told me. Come on, let's get out of here together!

Shion

Th-Thank you... but are you sure that's OK? Aren't we, umm, rivals...?

Hina

Don't worry about that. When someone truly needs help, you have to help them even if they're not on your side.

Shion

You're amazing, Hina... I wish I could help people as well as you...

Hina

No, I'm not amazing at all. I'm sure you could do this too.

Hina

In fact, I'd actually say I'm not really cut out for helping people.

Shion

...What do you mean?

Hina

Well, I'm a misfortune god, aren't I? I'm usually surrounded by an aura of misfortune, so I can't get close to most people.

Hina

But there are exceptions, like people who can handle the misfortune or are unaffected by it.

Shion

Th-That's true...

Hina

So while it's important to recognize what you're naturally good and bad at, sometimes things just work out anyway.

Hina

I think the most important thing is to act according to what you want to do and what you want for the other person.

Shion

Yeah... Yeah, you're right. I'm sure it will work out even for me if I try!

Hina

Yeah, so let's both try our best!

Aya

Look! Kokoro has passed through to the other side of the bamboo forest! She's taken the lead!

Nitori

Yuuka is a little behind on the same path that Kokoro took. It seems they've made up for the time lost at the Human Village.

Hina

Oh no. We should get going too. We've got to catch up!

Shion

Y-Yeah! Let's go!

Hina

Great. It took a while, but it looks like we've now got a clear path to the exit!

Shion

Yeah, we're gonna make it...

Aya

Yuuka has just left the bamboo forest! Will she be able to catch up to Kokoro at Hakurei Shrine, the next checkpoint?

Nitori

Komachi, in last place, has finally entered the bamboo forest. Will Hina and Shion be able to maintain their lead on her?

Hina

...You heard that commentary right now, didn't you? Let's hurry, Shion!

Shion

Yeah, I know, we've gotta catch up to first place...! I've got to!

Aya

Kokoro has reached the final checkpoint! She's the first to arrive at Hakurei Shrine!

Nitori

All she needs to do now is head back to the stadium... What?! She stopped and has started to set up her bento store!

Kokoro

...How strange. There's an event going on, but no one's here. I thought there would at least be a stall or two...

Well, it is Hakurei Shrine...

It's generally like this unless a party is on...

Kokoro

N-No way... Is there no one here even though it's a checkpoint? I can't believe this!

Kokoro

Hakurei Shrine is something else! I could never have dreamed that there would be so few visitors with an event going on!

Aya

It seems Kokoro was intent on selling the rest of her bento at the shrine but is taken aback by the desolate scene before her.

Nitori

Kokoro has probably only visited when a party or a festival is held there, so it's a big hit to her morale and her bento sales!

Kokoro

What should I do? Should I hurry back to the stadium? But it would be rude to leave without at least looking for customers!

Yuuka

I finally caught up to you... And all that I find is you grumbling to yourself.

Aya

Ayaya. Kokoro was standing around confused for so long that Yuuka managed to catch up!

Kokoro

Y-Yuuka! I know you're the competition, but I can't pass up my chance to serve a tasty bento while it's still hot!

Yuuka

What are you talking about? There's a reason why you're serving those bento, and it's not to give one to me, right?

Kokoro

But they'll go off if they don't get eaten... I don't want to waste food―It would be disrespectful to the farmers!

Yuuka

In that case, you will have to serve them in a place with more people. Can't you just sell the rest after finishing the race?

Kokoro

Hmm... Yeah, I guess there's no point in waiting for customers where there aren't any...

Oh! The phantom customers are back!

A host of phantoms are gathering!

Kokoro

Urk, when did they get here?! And aren't they heading toward us?!

Yuuka

Perhaps they're after your bento. Let's get rid of them!

Kokoro

Yeah, these aren't meant for phantoms. Sorry, but I'm gonna have to ask you to keep your phantom hands off them!

Kokoro

Phew, we somehow managed to protect the bento... And it looks like we also opened the way to the finish line!

Kasen

Oh? It's rare to see you two together. Is there some sort of special event going on?

Yuuka

You came at the perfect time, Kasen. Help out, Kokoro, would you?

Kokoro

Yeah! I'm selling bento at the moment. Would you like one? They're Heartfelt Bento―Edible art made from the heart!

Kasen

Oh my, these bento look so colorful and fun. Sure, I'll take one.

Kokoro

Yay! Enjoy your healthy and hearty, Heartfelt Bento! I put my whole heart into making it!

Yuuka

All right, we should start heading back to the lake. Hina and the others should be catching up soon.

Kokoro

OK! We're in an event held at the big stadium down by the Misty Lake. You should come by if you're interested!

Kasen

Hehe, thank you for the invite. Take care, you two!

Shion

*huff* *huff* We finally... made it...

Hina

Wait, that bento you're holding... Kokoro has already passed through here, hasn't she?

Kasen

Oh, are you two selling the drinks? I am a little thirsty―I'll buy one off you.

Hina

OK, here you go... Wait, we don't have the time to stand around selling drinks.

Hina

Let's hurry, Shion!

Aya

The competitors are coming down the homestretch! Who will be the first to cross the finish line?!

Nitori

Yuuka and Kokoro are neck and neck for the lead, but Hina and Shion are close behind!

Kokoro

I can see the stadium...! Hello everyone! We're back!

Yuuka

I knew this was the case, but you really are unrelenting, aren't you?

Hina

Don't forget about us! Come on, Shion. Let's finish this!

Shion

Y-Yeah...! I'm not gonna lose!

Aya

Hina and Shion are slowly but surely closing the gap! Will they be able to overtake the two leaders?!

Nitori

Wait! There's something else approaching at incredible speed. Is that a boat?!

Komachi

Sorry, everyone. I'm a little late. I hope the ride's not too bumpy for you, Kasen.

Kasen

It's fine. Don't worry about me―Make this boat go as fast as you can! It looks like you can still take first place!

Komachi

Hehe, all righty then! You heard the lady! Super Komachi is coming through!

Aya

Komachi's arrived on her boat! She's closing in fast, but there's still a big gap to first place. Will she get there in time?!

Keep going, everyone! You can do it!

Hina

Hehe, this has gotten pretty interesting! But I'm not going to let anyone win, but me!

Kokoro

I can't lose this fight! If you're gonna overtake me, I'm just gonna have to overtake you back!

Shion

Argh! I don't wanna lose... The finish line is so close. I just need to hang in there a little longer!

Yuuka

Hehe, words are no longer necessary this close to the end. All that's left is to empty the tank!

Aya

It's Yuuka's stamina against Kokoro's determination! Hina and Shion are trying their best, but can they keep going?!

Nitori

Komachi isn't out of the race either! Will the winner be Yuuka?! Kokoro?! Or someone else?! It's too hard to tell!

Aya

Th-They've crossed the line!

Komachi

*huff* *huff* ...Who won?

Yuuka

It looks like it's a photo finish... Let's wait and see...

Aya

The results are in! Wow... You won't believe this, but Yuuka and Kokoro tied for first!

Nitori

And that's not all! Hina and Shion tied for third! And unfortunately for Komachi, she came in fifth place.

Aya

But Komachi earned a landslide victory in terms of points! And with a much lower total in second place is Kokoro.

Yuuka

I was a little worried, but it seems I got there in the end.

Shion

Third?! I didn't win...

Hina

But we both really gave it our all. That was such a great race, everyone.

Komachi

Yeah, I thought I might have made too many detours, but I guess it turned out all right. I think...

Kokoro

I'm really happy with how many Heartfelt Bento I sold.

Nitori

Now then, it looks like enough Cheer Points have been gathered, so let's start counting the final tally!

Aya

Thank you for your patience, everyone! We're about to start revealing the final scores!

Nitori

Who will be crowned the first... Wait, what? Hang on.

Aya

Oh? What's wrong, Nitori?

Nitori

A report just came in... It seems an error occurred in the counting of the scores.

Aya

An error?! OK, let's send Momiji to investigate.

Nitori

Yeah. Sorry, but please be patient for a little while longer, everyone!

Komachi

What's going on? This doesn't look good.

Kokoro

What could have happened?

Yuuka

Who knows... Hopefully it isn't anything too serious.

Aya

Huh?! Slow down, Momiji! Did the trophy really get stolen?!

Aya

How are we going to deal with Yukarin, the supercell of misfortune? WHAT?! Yukarin is almost here?!

Nitori

Aya, your microphone's still on! Calm down and turn it off!

Hina

Th-The trophy's gone?! Does that mean the Cheer Points for the misfortune exorcism got stolen too?

Reimu

Hehehe... It seems someone was discerning enough to notice. But there's nothing you can do about it now.

Joon

Thanks for collecting all the cheer, everyone. I'm honestly surprised you managed to get so much.

Kokoro

R-Reimu and Joon?! Why are you two here?!

Shion

Oh no... Joon! You're here because of "that," aren't you...?!

Hina

That?! Do you know what's going on, Shion?

Shion

...Yeah. I didn't want to cause a fuss, but...

Shion

Wow... What is this box? There's a really tasty smell coming from it!

Shion

The sign says, "don't open," but that just means it must be valuable... Now I want to taste what's inside even more!

Shion

Argh... Grrrr... Just a little more...! *sob* It won't open! Grrrrr!

Reimu & Joon

Hey! Stop that! What are you doing?!

Shion

Huh?! What? What is it?!

Joon

Shion?! Why are you here, of all people?!

Reimu

Oh no! The lid's about to...!

Shion

Wait, what is THAT?! Uaaaaah?! Something came out! LOOK!

Misfortune Manju

*jiggle*

Misfortune Manju

*jiggle* *jiggle*

Misfortune Manju

*jiggle* *jiggle* *jiggle* *jiggle* *jiggle* *JIGGLE*

Trio Scared of Manju

EEEEK?!

Shion

I-It's a manjuuuu! A-And it's angry!

Reimu & Joon

...

Shion

Huh? Joon? Reimu?

Reimu & Joon

Hehehe... Muahahaha...

Shion

H-Hey? What's gotten into you both all of a sudden? A-Are you sure it's OK to touch that manju? I-It's not, right?

Reimu

Hehehe... I understand. I understand everything now... MANJU! That is the meaning of everything!

Joon

Muahahaha... This is amazing! Absolutely marvelous! Sh-Shion... Look, Shion... it's a manju.

Shion

S-Stop that! You're scaring me! I-I'm sorry! I won't try to steal food anymore, so please stop!

Misfortune Manju

*jiggle* *jiggle*... *jiggle* *JIGGLE*... *jiggle* *jiggle* *jiggle* *jiggle* *jiggle* *JIGGLE* *JIGGLE*

Shion

EEEEEEEEEEK?!

Shion

That's how they both got possessed by a manju... The manju was really, really scary!

Komachi

That's the stuff of nightmares. It's lucky that Shion only fainted and wasn't harmed in any way...

Hina

This is absolutely crazy... But at least now we know the cause of that strange misfortune.

Kokoro

Who would have guessed that Yukarin was actually a manju covered in misfortune?!

Yuuka

And so now this greedy and conniving duo is possessed by that manju.

Reimu

Hmph, say whatever you want. All I hear is the whining of fools absorbed in a foolish tournament.

Joon

Yeah, we couldn't care less about all that.

Reimu

Money! Money is all that matters! And money that isn't being spent is worthless!

Kokoro

What...?

Reimu

Are festivals held to be fun and make people happy? No! They're to make money! You can't fill your pockets with cheer!

Reimu

I'll manipulate the festivals to get ALL the money and customers! People will line up to visit Hakurei Shrine!

Komachi

Whoa, are you planning on monopolizing all the money between you both? That's no good. I'll be out of a job.

Kokoro

(But there weren't any visitors at Hakurei Shrine...)

Joon

Hehe, why would we stop there? If we use this great vortex of misfortune, we can rule all of Gensokyo!

Shion

R-Rule Gensokyo?!

Joon

Yes. The manju's resentment, anger, and loneliness... has been tainted by misfortune and become a mass of desire.

Joon

And the accumulated Cheer Points are an embodiment of positivity, which has the same nature as prosperity.

Joon

By combining so many Cheer Points and so much desire, we can convert them into as much cold hard cash as we want!

Hina

Th-That's crazy...

Joon

I call it the Calamity Spiral! We'll sweep up all the money with a tumultuous vortex of calamity! That's our plan!

Reimu

...Huh? Clam Spaghetti? That's the first I'm hearing of all this! Aren't we just going to make a killing by selling the trophy?

Joon

What?! How could you even think of doing something so wasteful?! No, Reimu. You need more ambition!

Joon

Boundless ambition is the power to bind dreams and fantasy to your will―it's the ultimate power in all Gensokyo!

Reimu

Again, why am I hearing about this now?! You should have explained this beforehand!

Komachi

...I don't really get what they're saying, but it looks like they're having a falling out.

Kokoro

I don't fully understand either, but there's one thing that's certain. They're trying to use the cheer we gathered for evil!

Yuuka

Yes, there's no doubt about that.

Hina

This is a perfect opportunity to cleanse some misfortune. Let's exorcise all of Reimu and Joon's misfortune together!

Shion

OK! I can't leave Joon like this! I may not always act like it, but I'm her big sister―I have to help her!

Joon

Wow, that's rich coming from you, Shion. Give it your best shot!

Reimu

I doubt that good cheer of yours will last because I'm not going to let you get in the way of me and my money!

Shion

Please, Joon! Please don't lose yourself to such senseless desires!

Joon

Wh-What's going on?! How can Shion...? No! It can't be...

Reimu

Is she absorbing our ambition along with our luck?! Hey, how come you didn't see this coming?!

Hina

Don't you know that the villains always lose? Your greed―that altered form of misfortune is a perfect target for Shion.

Hina

Besides, you'd never win with such base motives. Now, cross your fingers and shout "engacho!"―It's time for an exorcism!

Reimu

Wha...? What was I doing until now? For some reason, it feels like I got really worked up over something trivial...

Joon

Me too. But it's strange... I also kind of feel refreshed, like I've finally returned to being the real me.

Reimu

Yeah. It must've been that manju's doing. Our minds got half taken over by that resentful manju.

A resentful manju...?

Your minds got taken over?

Reimu

Yeah, that manju was really angry and bitter over not being eaten.

Joon

The resentment caused it to eat a whole lot of misfortune, which gave it the strange power to control people's minds.

Hina

I see... This may be similar to why you shouldn't leave dolls for the Doll Festival on display all year and forget about them.

Yuuka

We exorcised the misfortune from the ones who stole the trophy, so I suppose everything's all right now, correct?

Komachi

...Huh? Yeah, we exorcised Reimu and Joon... but where did the manju go?

Kokoro

...Oh no! Look! The audience stands are in chaos!

Momiji

Aaarrrgh! All forces! Advance on the Youkai Mountain! Follow me!

Daiyousei

YES! I really am number one, Cirno!

Cirno

Th-That's my line, Dai?! What should we do? Now Dai's the one who's gone all strange!

Kasen

I'm hungry... I'm so, so, so, so, so hungry for MANJU! Someone! Give me manju!

Komachi

Yikes?! It's a full-on riot. This is the manju's fault, isn't it?

Shion

Y-Yeah, it has to be...! That crazy manju has possessed them!

Aya

Umm, sorry for the long pause in commentary, everyone! There seems to be some confusion and panic in the stadium...

Nitori

This isn't the time for keeping up appearances! Everyone, calm down and focus on trying to defend yourselves!

Yuuka

Tsk, they've begun to attack everyone around them in their rampage. Let's quiet them down before anyone gets hurt!

Hina

Yeah, that looks like our only option. Let's go, Five Heralds of Spring! Defend the audience!

Aya

Ayayayaya, the chaos just continues to spread... Is everyone all right?

Nitori

L-Look over there, Aya! The competitors are trying to bring the crazed audience members under control!

Momiji

Hey! What are you trying to do?! I won't hold back if you get in my way!

Hina

No, what are you trying to do, Momiji?! Please, snap out of it!

Shion

You're going to cause trouble for the other people in the audience, so we can't afford to pull any punches!

Momiji

Grr, they're showing no signs of backing down. And I'm outnumbered... Miss Kasen, I require your assistance!

Kasen

Assistance?! I've got no hands to spare right now!

Komachi

That's right. We're dealing with this hermit. I have to take responsibility for carrying her all the way here.

Kokoro

I don't have any manju, but I do still have some bento left! Please make do with one of these for now!

Kasen

Your bento truly was delicious! But bento are no replacement for manju!

Kokoro

Wh-What?! But these are yummy Heartfelt Bento! That cursed manju! How dare it think it's better than my bento!

Kasen

We're definitely fighting an uphill battle! How's Daiyousei faring?!

Daiyousei

Cirno... I'll defeat you here and now to prove that I'm the STRONGEST!

Cirno

D-Dai... You're not meant to be like this! You're scaring me!

Yuuka

*sigh* You shouldn't frighten your best friend like that. If you want to fight someone, I will be your opponent.

Aya

Would you look at this! The competitors are defending against all the crazed members of the audience!

Nitori

Thanks to that, we've identified who's possessed! Watch out for Momiji, Kasen, and Daiyousei!

OK! Be careful, everyone!

Hina

All right! We won't let them touch anyone else in the audience!

Momiji

Grrrr, we're at a disadvantage if we stay here. Troops, go around and head for the mountain!

Kasen

Fine... It doesn't look like I'm going to get any supplies at this rate, so I'm going to retreat as well.

Daiyousei

Yes, let's fall back. We need to settle this, Cirno! Follow me to the battlefield!

All three of them retreated!

Shion

Let's follow! We have to finish this!

Hina

OK, you're not going any further! We'll exorcise your misfortune and the manju!

Momiji

Urk, you're so persistent...! Fine. If it's a battle you want, it's a battle you'll get!

Hina

I didn't think you'd be so tough... But this is the final exorcism!

Momiji

Urgh! Curse you, curse you, CURSE YOUUUUUU!

Aya

Th-They did it! Hina's exorcism cleansed the misfortune from Momiji and the rest―and split the manju in two!

Nitori

Nice work, Five Heralds of Spring! You are all heroes of Gensokyo!

Aya

Well done, everyone! Who would have thought that this was all caused by a manju?! I would never have guessed!

Momiji

Yes... I'm sorry for causing so much trouble, everyone.

Nitori

It was just one thing after another, wasn't it? But it seems that most of that strange misfortune has gone now.

Hina

Yeah. I thought Yukarin would get us, but it all worked out thanks to everyone's help.

Shion

Joon and Reimu are back to normal as well... So everything's settled!

Reimu

I guess so. But I lost my chance to gain a huge profit...

Joon

Well, Shion actually saved me for once, so I suppose I'll give up this time.

Reimu

You're awfully quick to change your tune, Joon... But I guess you're right. We did cause a lot of trouble for everyone...

Komachi

Come on, you know what they say, "money saved is money wasted." You're better off with empty pockets!

Yuuka

I think that only applies to you. Everyone else should at least save enough for the fare across the Sanzu River.

Well, either way, everything's back to normal now!

Kokoro

That's right! Mister Rinnosuke has even brought something to celebrate!

Rinnosuke

Yeah, I'm sorry I'm late. Cleaning up my shop took a lot longer than I thought it would...

Rinnosuke

Now then, I brought these for you all. They're wagashi provided by the school.

Shion

S-Sweets?! A-Am I allowed to eat them...?!

Rinnosuke

Yeah. We wouldn't want any to go uneaten and gain a grudge like that manju, right?

Reimu

That's considerate of you, Mister Rinnosuke! They're great for the party since eating wagashi is said to ward off misfortune!

Aya

Yes! Take some Doll Festival arare, too! They're for everyone who participated in the event.

Nitori

Oh, right! Speaking of participation, what happened to the final standings?

Aya

Yeah, we weren't able to do the final count with everything going on... Let's just share the grand prize out at the party!

Yay! Cucumber Shiriko!

Now I can read newspaper extras whenever I want!

Kokoro

That's a great idea! Cheer and tasty food and drink should be shared with everyone―that goes for my Heartfelt Bento too!

Hina

Hehehe, nice. I think I'll take one.

Shion

Wow... My tummy and heart feel so full and satisfied right now!

Cirno

You're overreacting, Shion. I'll come and share some sweets with you from time to time if you want.

Daiyousei

We know you're not a bad poverty god, so you're welcome to some of mine too.

Shion

*sob* Joon... *sniffle* I-I'm so happy!

Joon

I don't think I've ever seen Shion get this emotional... This spring is shaping up to be warmer than I thought.

Kasen

Oh, look, everyone! The Fairy Herald of Spring is back in action!

Lily White

Sorry for the wait, everyone! It's SPRING!

Hina

You're right. This year's spring is going to be great!

Kokoro

Now, since we're having a party, why don't we all go to Hakurei Shrine to view the first cherry blossoms?!

Yuuka

That's not a bad idea. I think I'll join you in admiring their beauty.

Aya

Excellent! Then I'll keep being the MC for the party!

Reimu

Why would we need one of those? Everyone's just going to get drunk, make merry, and do whatever they want like usual.

Nitori

What's the problem, Reimu? You don't want to be in charge of the party, do you?

Rinnosuke

Perhaps you should listen to Nitori. You've had a rough day today, so you shouldn't have to worry about being in charge.

Reimu

Hmm, well, if you say so, Mister Rinnosuke... I guess I'll let loose just this once!

Byakuren

It's an emergency!

Byakuren

Are you here, Miss Reimu?! Something terrible has―

Reimu

I refuse!

Byakuren

Whaaaat?! I haven't told you what the problem is yet...

Reimu

Nope! I'm not helping! I refuse!

Byakuren

Wh-Where is your compassion?! At least hear me out! Please!

Reimu

There's no point listening to you―My mind's made up! I haven't forgotten what happened last time with the manju!

Byakuren

Yes, the manju! That's what the emergency is about...

Don't tell me the manju has returned?!

Reimu

Nope! I'm not listening! I can't hear whatever it is you're talking about.

Hina

What's going on? I heard a lot of yelling... Has something happened again?

Shion

Manju?! Did I just hear someone say the manju's back?

Byakuren

Oh, I'm sorry for making so much noise... But I learned something very distressing about that manju!

Hina

So something is going on. All right, what did you learn?

Byakuren

You see, that manju... was actually from Makai.

Byakuren

And you won't believe this, but even though it's just a manju, it has its own will and can move.

Hina

W-We already know about that. Well, I guess we didn't know about the Makai part.

Byakuren

And that's not all. These manju seem to have an incredibly strong grudge against people...

Shion

We know... We had to perform an exorcism together to get rid of that grudge along with the misfortune...

Hina

Hm? Wait a second? Did you just say "these" manju...?

Byakuren

Yes... You may already know about this, too, but there are still four manju left...

Hina & Shion

(I didn't want to know that!)

Byakuren

Who could have expected moldy uneaten manju could turn out like this...?

Reimu

...So, have you finished talking yet?

Byakuren

Please help. I will, of course, reward you appropriately!

Reimu

Whoa, hold it right there! I'm not gonna deal with such troublesome manju no matter how much extra you give me!

Byakuren

How about ten times as much?

Reimu

Hmm...

Reimu

Argh! I've had it with these manju! Is everyone ready? Hurry if you're not, 'cause we're going to deal with them right now!

Hina

Wh-What?! W-Well I guess I'm ready... So is that where the Makai manju are then?

Shion

They seem to be stored in that box, but this box doesn't seem to have as strong an aura as the last one...

Byakuren

Umm... This is a little embarrassing, but...

Komachi

...Right. OK. So that's why we've all been called here then?

Kokoro

Yay! The Five Heralds of Spring are back together!

Reimu

I can't believe she let some of the manju escape... This isn't going to be easy...

Yuuka

So do you have any leads as to where we should start looking for them?

Reimu

Of course. I would have downright refused to look if there wasn't.

Reimu

There are four manju left.

Reimu

Fortunately, one of them is still in the box, so we can use it to find the others.

Makai Manju

*jiggle*... *jiggle*...

The Makai manju's become a manju detector?

The manju is jiggling ever so slightly...

Hina

Yeah. I don't know why, but for some strange reason, these manju are attracted and react to each other.

Reimu

So all we've got to do is gather each manju in turn and then float them down the river like nagashi-bina at the end!

Shion

What're we gonna do if someone's mind-controlled or strange things happen like last time...?

Kokoro

If there's anything like that, we'll deal with it!

Yuuka

It looks like our cheering skills that worked so well in the tournament are needed once more.

Komachi

I agreed to help last time, so I'm not gonna abandon ship on you all now! We'll find these manju together!

Reimu

Thanks, I really appreciate it. And don't worry, I've borrowed everyone's costumes, so they're here ready for you all.

Five Heralds of Spring―Transform!

Hina

All right! With all the Five Heralds of Spring together, there's nothing we can't handle!

Shion

I wouldn't go so far as to say there's "nothing," but I do feel more confident with everyone here.

Reimu

OK, it looks like everyone's in agreement. Let's start looking for these manju, shall we?

Hina

*sigh* I can sense some misfortune around here, but I can't see anything out of the ordinary.

Jiggling Manju

*JIGGLE* *JIGGLE* *JIGGLE*

It does look like a manju should be close...

Shion

Has anyone else noticed that it's kind of cold here, even though it's spring now...?

Komachi

It can get colder than normal when phantoms gather, but this doesn't feel like that sort of chill...

Yuuka

Oh? There's a frozen field mustard flower... I see... I'm fairly sure that I've figured out who our culprit is.

Kokoro

Look over there! Isn't that the cause of all this?!

Lily White

It's meant to be spring! Spring! Not whatever this is!

Daiyousei

Slow down, Cirno! Wait for me!

Cirno

Kyahahaha! I'm gonna freeze the whole lake! I'm a prank GENIUS!

Komachi

It's great that she's got her cheer back and all, but isn't she a little too cheerful now?!

Yuuka

She may not be the strongest, but this might be the most cheerful and coldest natural disaster I've seen...

Cirno

Oh? What are you guys doing here? You're all in the same getup as the other day―Is there another event going on?

Daiyousei

Hello! Thanks once again for helping Cirno and me out the other day!

Daiyousei

Uh, umm... you can probably tell, but Cirno's really cheerful now...

Lily White

Yeah. She's so cheerful that the spring everyone worked so hard for could turn back into winter!

Yuuka

Yes. It seems she's grown tired of freezing frogs and has started to freeze anything and everything.

Shion

Um, by the way, you haven't seen any strange manju around here, have you? Like maybe, a manju that moves...?

Cirno

A moving manju?! Why are you looking for something like that?

Daiyousei

It wasn't a manju, but didn't you say that you found something earlier, Cirno?

Cirno

Yeah, I did. I've been super lucky lately, and I managed to find a cool rock!

A cool... rock?!

Daiyousei

Yeah, from what I heard, she found a strange stone that's always freezing cold.

Lily White

Yeah... Spring has gone so far away because of that rock!

Cirno

With that rock, I'm always super cool and always the STRONGEST! It's my precious rock of cheer!

Reimu

Hmm... Maybe it's a type of Weather Stone? Where is it now?

Cirno

All right, I'll let you take a look! Just wait a sec, OK? I've hidden it away 'cause phantoms gather around it!

Kokoro

Phantoms gather around it?

Yuuka

That doesn't sound good... I'm not so sure it is a stone.

Cirno

*SHRIEK*

Komachi

I knew this would happen... Is Cirno OK? We should go check on her.

Cirno

M-My rock... it's MOVING!

Frozen Manju

*shiver* *shiver*

Hina

I knew it couldn't just be a stone... It's a frozen manju! And look...

Lily White

Oh no! Th-There are phantoms!

Shion

They're here just like Cirno said... Maybe Cirno isn't the sole cause of this cold after all.

Reimu

Argh! Don't just stand there gawking. Let's get rid of them already!

Cirno

*sob* I thought I found a super cool rock!

Yuuka

Sorry to interrupt your grieving, but since you're here, you're going to help us deal with this.

Cirno

Sure! Leave it to me! I'll show you the power of the STRONGEST!

Cirno

Hah, that was easy! Stray phantoms are no match for me!

Yuuka

So it would seem. With so much power, I guess you do deserve to boast a little.

Cirno

I know, right? I'm the STRONGEST in all Gensokyo, after all!

Reimu

There's nothing wrong with being confident, but don't let it get to your head. You don't want to turn spring back into winter.

You could get scolded by the Yama.

Komachi

Yeah, that's true. Lady Eiki's lectures go on forever, so you better be careful, Cirno.

Yuuka

You should listen to Komachi. I miss the warmth of spring, and I'd much rather spend my time admiring the seasonal flowers.

Lily White

I also don't want to fight with Cirno. It's spring now, so let's think of a game to play that's more suited to the season!

Daiyousei

Y-You're right! It won't be spring forever, Cirno, so let's try playing a prank that doesn't involve freezing things!

Cirno

OK! Then let's start right now! Let's GOOOO!

Daiyousei

W-Wait for me, Cirno!

Lily White

Umm, good luck with getting rid of those manju, everyone!

Yeah! Good luck with your pranks!

Reimu

*sigh* I know I should be used to it by now, but those fairies really are noisy.

Shion

Yeah... Oh, that's right, we've got to collect the frozen manju.

Hina

I've already put it in the box. Come on, let's look for the next one!

Komachi

Those who got affected by the manju were really unlucky, weren't they? Especially Reisen... I feel so sorry for her!

Hina

Yeah. It's bad enough to lose your cheer but to have your personality changed... I'd say that's more than just unlucky.

Reimu

In my case, the bad luck has continued even after the manju's control over me was exorcised...

Um... I'm sure it'll get better, Reimu.

Reimu

If things just got better, no one would need shrine maidens! Let's gather these manju and throw them in the river already!

Yuyuko

Oh my, the misfortune exorcising professionals are all out here together. Thank you again for the other day.

Komachi

Yuyuko and Youmu, eh? How've you been? Your worries aren't back again, I hope?

Yuyuko

Yes, everything's back to normal now, thanks to your help. It feels good not to worry about every little thing.

Youmu

...

Is that normal...?

Hina

Umm, Yuyuko? Youmu seems a little... different today.

Yuyuko

Really? I think she's the same as normal. Isn't that right, Youmu?

Youmu

...Myon.

Reimu

Hmm? ...Ummm, is that normal, everyone?

Yuuka

*sigh* There is so much wrong that I don't even know where to start...

Kokoro

She does look cheerful... but she's a little―no, she's very different from normal!

(She seems much more maid-like today!)

Youmu

...Myon? Myoooon?!

Hina

Yeah, she's definitely acting strange... Particularly, umm, her way of speaking...

Shion

Yeah... All she's saying is "myon"...

Youmu

Myooon! Myooon!

Yuuka

It sounds like the cry of an animal... Did the manju cause this as well?

Yuyuko

Hmm? Are you sure? I think you may be exaggerating a little. She's as cheerful as normal, and the food she cooked for me...

Youmu

Myooo! Myooo!

Komachi

It sounds like she disagrees with you!

Shion

Yes. The other manju are also reacting!

Yuyuko

Really? Hmm... I guess there is something different. She hasn't been frightened by my scary stories since yesterday...

Youmu

Myooooon...?

Shion

Either way, it looks like we should perform an exorcism on her.

Yuyuko

Hmmm... All right, you've convinced me. Please do.

Youmu

Myo-myo-myo-myo-myo-myon?!

Kokoro

All right... this Heartfelt Bento will cheer you up!

Youmu

Myo... Myooon!

Youmu

Myoon... Oof.

Hina

Oh, she said something other than "myon"! It looks like we managed to cure her!

Kokoro

That's good... I was worried that she'd be like that forever. I'm so glad that she's back to normal now.

Youmu

...Huh? What was I doing just now...?

Yuyuko

Thank goodness, Youmu. You're back to your normal self!

Stretchy Manju

*stretch* *stretch*

Hina

There it is! I knew a manju was to blame!

Reimu

...Her clothing's also back to normal, was that the manju's doing too?

I don't think anything can surprise me anymore...

Youmu

It stole my ability to speak and took control of my mind and form... That is one truly terrifying manju...

Komachi

That's a manju from Makai for you! It's impossible to predict what will happen when one's involved.

Yuyuko

In any case, thank you for returning Youmu back to normal. We should be more careful.

Reimu

Yeah, you can never be too careful. You better not leave any manju uneaten, OK?!

Yuyuko

How rude! I eat manju every day and never leave any on my plate!

Youmu

Yes... We'll watch out for any grudges involving food! You all watch out too, OK?!

Reimu

Phew, we're finally mid-way up the mountain... There's not long to go now.

Hina

Yeah. We still have to find one more manju, but we're getting close...!

Komachi

...Hm? Hold up. It's not usually this noisy around here, right?

Aya

Extra! EXTRAAAA! The Bunbunmaru Newspaper has a pure, righteous, and cheerful extra!

Kokoro

An extra...? What could it be about?

Aya

Ayaya, fancy seeing you all here! And those costumes...

It's just what it looks like.

The Five Heralds of Spring are back together!

Aya

Oh ho, so you're all still cheering even though the festival's over, are you?! Would you like to take a read of my extra?

Yuuka

Yes, I'll take one. Though I can already guess what it's about...

Shion

Um, it says... "Herald of Spring Cup Profits!" and "Beware of Manju! Spring Comes With an Exorcism!"

Reimu

"Joon and Reimu Bankrupt! All Our Problems Solved!"... You've certainly got a lot of material out of that one event...

Aya

I did indeed! I'm so happy that I can deliver such great news to everyone!

Komachi

I see... So I take it you've handed out quite a few copies then, right?

Aya

Of course! ...By the way, I couldn't help but notice that you seem to be holding that box rather carefully...

Kokoro

Umm... I don't want to alarm you, but you know that scary manju from the other day...?

It seems there was more than one...

There's a second helping...

Aya

...Huh? Does that mean the trouble is still far from over?!

Hina

I'm sorry to tell you this, especially after just reading your articles, but yeah, it's not over...

Aya

No way... Is my news false? Did I spread misinformation with my newspaper?!

Last Manju

*shuffle* *shuffle*

Aya

Eep?! There's a WALKING manju!

That must be the last one.

Hina

Yeah, looks like it. Let's catch it.

Aya

It's over... If this news gets out, the public will lose all trust in the Bunbunmaru Newspaper!

Yuuka

Calm down, OK? We found all four of them, so you still have a chance to turn this around.

Aya

Right. I have to cover this up... That's my only option! My news won't be false if no one hears about this, right?!

Shion

No, umm, I think you're missing the point... Actually, are you even listening to us at all?!

Hina

All right, we're pretty much done now that we've got the last manju. All that's left is to cleanse their misfortune in the river!

Aya

I-In the river...?

Komachi

In other words, we're gonna make what you wrote in your newspaper true. So you've got nothing to worry about.

Aya

Th-Thank you! There's no time to waste, then!

Aya

I'll come with you, so let's hurry and put these manju in the river to get this over with as quickly as possible!

Reimu

You always are quick to recover... And yeah, I guess we are in the same boat, so come with us, and we'll get this done.

We should hurry, shouldn't we?

Yuuka

Yes. We're on the homestretch now, so let's keep up the pace until we finish this.

Hina

Phew, we finally made it. OK, now let's float the manju down the river along with nagashi-bina.

Aya

Oh, so this is the river you usually use, is it? This is the perfect chance to take some photos!

And she's off...

Reimu

I'm sure you've gotten used to that by now. Forget about the tengu, and let's toss these manju in the river!

Shion

It'll all be over once they're in the river, right? O-OK, here goes!

Hina

Wait! You can't just put them in like that! We have to make the proper preparations before floating them down the river!

Kokoro

Preparations? Are we going to make a manju bento or something?

Komachi

I'm pretty sure she means they need a boat. If we just drop them in, they'll get all banged up and lose their fillings!

Hina

Komachi's exactly right. I have to make the nagashi-bina, so can you all make boats for the manju, please?

Yuuka

Good. I expected something like this. That's why I brought a few bamboo leaves from the bamboo forest with me.

Komachi

Nice! Good thinking! If anyone's got any questions about boat-building, just ask me, all right?!

Kokoro

Yay, we managed to build the boats for the manju! Are these OK, Hina?

Hina

Let me take a look... Don't worry―they're perfect.

Yuuka

It looks like you're all ready too. Now we can start floating the manju down the river, correct?

Reimu

OK, I'm going to open the box with the manju now... I'll go slowly, so they don't escape...

Makai Manju Four

*jiggle* *shiver* *stretch* *shuffle*

Aya

Ayaya... What an eerie sight. The moldy manju are creepily moving around.

Hina

At least they're more docile than the one at the tournament. Exorcising them of their misfortune shouldn't be too hard...

Reimu

Yeah. If we carefully and respectfully float each one down the river, they shouldn't cause any chaos like the other one.

Shion

That's good... *nom* *nom*

Is that... chewing I hear?

Komachi

...Shion? Are you eating what I think you're eating?

Shion

Urk?! U-Umm, well...

There used to be four, but now there are only three!

Reimu

What?! W-Why are you eating them?! They're Makai manju! We were just about to float them down the river!

Shion

S-Sorry... I was hungry, and they were there, so... I couldn't help it!

Yuuka

That's really an urge you should be able to contain, right? Are you feeling OK? You're not sick, are you?

Kokoro

Urk! O-Oh no! The other manju are―!

Shion

Wha?! *choking noise*

Aya

Ayayayaya?! They're all jumping into Shion's mouth! It's like they're trying to get eaten!

Hina

Oh no! Why did you have to eat one now of all times?!

What do you mean?

Hina

The reason why these manju contain so much misfortune is probably because they have a grudge from not being eaten...

Komachi

So when they saw that there was someone actually willing to eat them, they jumped at the chance...

Kokoro

I-Is Shion going to be OK? They're not going to control her mind from inside her stomach, are they?

Reimu

I don't know... But we need to be prepared for the worst. They might combine in her stomach to form a giant manju.

Shion

*nom* *nom*... *gulp* W-Wait! *cough* I almost choked...

Aya

S-She ate them all... Does that count as an exorcism?

Hina

...No. That did get rid of their grudge, but she merely absorbed the misfortune they had into herself.

Reimu

I thought so... This dreadful amount of misfortune is the same as when she was in her super mode!

Shion

W-Why...? My stomach's full, but I'm in pain... M-My throat! There's manju in my throat!

Komachi

R-Reimu... Is that super mode thing true? Are you sure she doesn't just want some tea to wash them down?

Hina

Just look at the amount of misfortune in her. We have to perform an exorcism on her right now!

Kokoro

All right! That's what our Cheer Power is for! Don't worry, Shion. We'll save you!

Shion

Uuaargh! *cough* *cough*

Reimu

Good, she spat out the misfortune inside her. Finish this, Hina!

Hina

Leave it to me! This will complete the exorcism! EEEEENGACHO!

Shion

Uhh... H-Huh? Where am I...?

Shion! You're awake!

Shion

Oh no... I caused trouble for everyone again, didn't I?!

Reimu

That wasn't just a bit of trouble. I'm not sure how we would have explained it to Joon if things went south.

Hina

It looks like you're all right now. But just to be sure, how does your stomach feel?

Shion

...I'm hungry. But my tummy doesn't hurt or anything...

Kokoro

Thank goodness! I was worried you got possessed by the manju.

Komachi

Yeah, that's a relief! Phew, I feel a little hungry too, now that I'm not worried anymore.

Reimu

That's only natural after all we've done today. Why don't we head back to the shrine and have some tea?

Reimu

I've got plenty of sweets left over from the last party, and I'd rather not have any of them come back to haunt us...

Yuuka

Oh, that's as good an excuse as any. Let's go to the shrine and have a party while watching the cherry blossoms.

Hina

Sounds good! I also have to finish handing out all of the drinks I got from Nitori!

Kokoro

Don't forget about my delicious Heartfelt Bento!

Shion

*GROWL*

Reimu

Wow, I've never heard a stomach grumble so loud!

Shion

*sob* It's 'cause I still haven't had anything tasty to eat today. I could eat anything now, as long as it fills me up!

Oh, I just remembered! There's a manju in my pocket!

Do you want it, Shion? You can eat it if you want!

Shion

What?! A manju?! I've had more than enough manju to last a lifetime!

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Hina's Cheering Saga

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Hina's Cheering Saga