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Prince Shoutoku Chronicles: An Oh-So-Cheesy Affair

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Whispering
Chimata
All the black markets and shady dealers have shut up shop. Now I want to open a new market everyone can enjoy.
Chimata
Hmmm... If only there was a big occasion or some festival I could use─
???
Why, if it isn't Miss Chimata. Is there something on your mind?
Chimata
I know that voice...!
Tsukasa
Heh heh heh. If you're looking to start a new business venture, then I am at your service.
Chimata
Tsukasa... Working with you sounds like nothing but trouble. Sorry, but please just stick with Iizunamaru.
Tsukasa
Hey, wait! I have a reaaaaaally good idea this time!
Tsukasa
But Lady Iizunamaru said she doesn't want anything to do with it... Tch, such a waste!
Chimata
Iizunamaru said that? This is sounding shadier by the minute...
Tsukasa
Don't let that bother you. Lady Iizunamaru is always overly cautious.
Tsukasa
If my plan succeeds, I guarantee you'll have a bustling market! At least hear me out. No harm in that, right?
Chimata
Hmmm... Fine, if you insist.
Tsukasa
That's more like it! I knew you'd come around!
Tsukasa
I'll get straight to it. Have you heard of the Prank Festival?
Chimata
Is that the one where people dress up and offer sweets to ward off evil spirits? Now you mention it, it's coming up soon.
Tsukasa
It sure is! That festival is the reason why sweets and costume sales skyrocket this time of year.
Chimata
That's true. Especially for sweets.
Tsukasa
Some people aren't into costumes, but almost everyone buys sweets or the ingredients to make them.
Chimata
Oh, I get it! I can use the Prank Festival to set up a sweets market!
Tsukasa
You'll make a TON of money― ...No, I mean, your market will be a ton of fun!
Tsukasa
But the same old sweets won't cut it. You need to offer something more... unusual.
Chimata
What did you have in mind?
Tsukasa
Take a look for yourself... This book's from the outside world.
Chimata
Hmm... Cakes and puddings made using "white cheese"? That does sound like it'd attract lots of customers!
Chimata
But what exactly is this white cheese?
Tsukasa
Hmmm, if it's not just regular cheese, then the only other thing I can think of is "so."
Tsukasa
It's pretty similar to normal cheese, and it's white. Why don't you sell sweets made with that?
Chimata
Hm, most people are already familiar with it... I'll bet some even know how to make it!
Chimata
All right, it's settled! I'm going to set up a market for sweets made of "so" for the Prank Festival!
Chimata
Thanks for the idea, Tsukasa!
Tsukasa
I knew she'd be up for it. Hehehe, good thing I whispered the idea in her ear.
Tsukasa
I better make sure to get stocked up on the ingredients...
A New Craze
Lively Shop Clerk
Welcome! Try our new "so" dorayaki!
Western Sweet Shop Owner
If you're looking for the famous "so" cakes, you've come to the right place! Come get 'em before they're all gone!
W-Wow! This place is packed!
I gotta do my best to get everything Reimu asked for!
Aunn
Miss PLAYER, Miss Reimu, these sweets are delicious!
You said it! They taste a bit like cheesecake!
Um, what are they made with, again?
Reimu
"So" cheese. But yeah, it's pretty similar to regular cheese.
Reimu
Everyone's been going crazy over "so" cakes and "so" youkan. I was a bit skeptical, but these are pretty good.
Aunn
And this "so" sauce is great too! It makes everything taste delicious!
Aunn
Hmph! But how come they have cat-shaped "so" manju but no komainu ones...?
I think I saw some dog-shaped ones in the village.
Not sure if they were komainu, but they were cute!
Aunn
Really?! I gotta check those out!
Reimu
We need to buy stuff anyway, so if we find them, we'll get you some. *munch* Now we need more "so" rice crackers too.
OK then, I'll go to the village!
Can you two prepare the tea for when I return?
Reimu
Yeah, but are you sure you don't need me to go with you?
No, that's OK! I'm used to shopping in the village!
Reimu
Hmm, I'm not sure about this... But all right, I'll leave it to you.
Aunn
Just call for us if something happens! We'll come running!
Reimu
Yeah, but by the time we get there, won't it already be too late...?
Japanese Sweet Shop Owner
Here's your "so" imagawayaki! Thirty of them, just like you ordered!
Customer
Thanks! "So" sweets are the best!
Cheerful Taiyaki Shop Owner
Why don't you also try some of our "so" taiyaki?
Wow, there's so much more variety now!
Hm, I got the rice crackers and manju. What else?
???
How about some of these?
Mike
Buy in bulk for better value! I'll even throw in a special discount just for you!
Mike! I didn't know you were working here today.
I don't see any customers... Whoa, you've sold a lot!
Mike
I can use my ability to attract money or people to do business. The last customer bought a bucketload.
Mike
So I'm chillin' right now. But of course, I'll still serve anyone who shows up.
Mike
You're looking for some "so" sweets, aren't you? Why don't you try one of these?
Is this tofu...? No, it's more like cheese.
What exactly is it?
Mike
It's pure "so"─the key ingredient in all the sweets everyone's going mad for. People used to eat it as is.
Mike
Simply put, it's Japan's version of cheese. The old noble families used to love eating it.
Mike
Wanna know how far it dates back? Let's just say the people of the Divine Spirit Mausoleum have eaten their fair share.
Mike
So what will it be? Are you gonna buy some authentic "so"?
Mike
I'll even throw in some of our delicious new product─"so" honey!
O-OK! I'll take some!
If you say it's delicious, then I'm sure it is!
Mike
Hehe! Thank you!
Mike
I know I'm the one selling the stuff... but do you really want this much?
Y-Yeah! I want Reimu and Aunn to try some!
I also want to give some to Miss Miko!
Mike
Got it. Just be careful not to drop it, OK?
Mike
See ya! Come back any time!
A Familiar Flavor
Futo
Wow, PLAYER! Wherefore hast thou brought sweets for Lady Taishi?! Art thou finally converting to Taoism?
N-No, nothing like that...!
I just wanted you all to try these sweets!
Tojiko
Did you hear that, Futo?
Futo
Then I shall tell thee all about the greatness of Lady Taishi over a cup of tea with these sweets!
Tojiko
Please ignore her, PLAYER.
Futo
How dare thee, Tojiko!
Miko
Oh, hello, PLAYER. I was wondering what all the commotion was about.
Tojiko & Futo
L-Lady Taishi?!
Miko
What's all that you've got there?
Miss Miko! These are some gifts for you all!
Miko
Hmm, "so," huh? The maneki-neko was right. We used to eat this all the time.
Miko
I remember me and my beloved horse used to sit and chat while indulging in it.
Futo
*nom* *nom* 'Tis most wondrous that there are still people who can maketh this! 'Tis quite delicious! *nom* *nom*
Tojiko
Hey! Stop hogging, Futo! Leave some for Lady Taishi!
Miko
Hahaha, it's OK. It's not something you can eat a lot of anyway.
I'm glad you guys like it!
I'll go buy some more if you run out!
Tojiko
More? Is it that easy to come by?
Miko
I heard about the sweets craze in the village, but I didn't know it was about "so"―or rather, "so" sweets.
Futo
Hm... OK, then Tojiko and I shall go and purchase some later!
Miko
That'll be great. But I must say, whoever thought of making sweets using "so" was quite ingenious.
Futo
I can understand "so" honey, but "so" cookies and cakes...! Tojiko, let's offer people "so" sweets as an incentive to join us!
Tojiko
Yes! Anything for Lady Taishi!
Futo
But we should make something different... something better. Hast thou any good ideas?
Miko
Hmm... How about daigo?
Tojiko
Hm, daigo is similar to "so"... The people might take a liking to it.
Daigo? What's that?
Miko
Oh, right. You're not familiar with it. It's an ancient dairy product made from butter, but it's sweet and creamy.
Saki
I'm gonna go check out what's happening above ground! I hope I run into someone strong!
Yachie
Geez, is that all you think about?
Saki
Hey, Kicchou! What're you doing here? Don't tell me you're going out too?
Yachie
No. I came here to check on something, but I'm about to head back to the Animal Realm.
Saki
Oh... Why don't you come for a run with me?
Yachie
I'll pass.
Saki
Why?!
Yachie
How many times do I need to tell you I'm never going to get along with a musclehead like you?
Yachie
Besides, aren't you wearing new clothes? Are you planning on getting them all dirty by running around up there?
Saki
I'm wearing them BECAUSE they're new. Running around in them is bound to feel great!
Yachie
You're a musclehead through and through, huh? Well, whatever. I'm not going with you.
Saki
Tch. You don't know how to enjoy life!
Saki
OK, first I need a warm-up. Kicchou, let's have a battle!
Yachie
Huh? What sort of logic is that?!
Saki
Beats me. All I know is―
Saki
―it's always good to train!
Yachie
*sigh* I'm gonna teach you a lesson!
Yachie
Gosh... You don't know how to have a civilized conversation, do you?!
Saki
HA HA HA! That was some good training!
Yachie
*sigh* Can I go now?
Saki
What? Are you seriously not coming with me?
Yachie
Obviously, not. As a leader, I can't just go above ground whenever I feel like it.
Saki
Stop being so uptight. Even leaders need a break once in a while, you know?
Saki
Lady Taishi used to say that all the time! But suit yourself.
Saki
I'll bring back something for you. If I remember, that is!
Yachie
That Kurokoma is never gonna change, is she?
Yachie
But I suppose it's OK as long as "those two"... don't start any trouble up there. Anyway, I better head back.
Haniwa Helpers
Keiki
Wow, you can buy so many different types of sweets up here!
Mayumi
You can say that again. I didn't know "so" could be used in so many ways!
Keiki
Look, Mayumi. The "so" over there looks like haniwa.
Mayumi
Oh, my... They've molded it into little sculptures. How adorable.
Keiki
You are most definitely the superior haniwa, but they have done a rather good job.
Keiki
I was a little worried that sweets wouldn't work as sculptures, but after seeing this, I'm glad we came.
Mayumi
I'm happy to see you so inspired by all of this.
Keiki
...
Mayumi
What's wrong, Lady Keiki?
Keiki
Mayumi... I want to take some "so" sweets─no, some "so" sculptures back home. Will you help me?
Keiki
I want a closer look at them. Let's also get some "so" sweets for everyone in the Primate Spirit Garden.
Keiki
Oh, and we'll buy enough for you and your haniwa army too.
Mayumi
Really? You'd do that for us?
Keiki
Of course. You're all as important to me as any human spirit. I want to show my appreciation.
Mayumi
L-Lady Keiki...!
Mayumi
I, Mayumi Joutouguu, will buy enough "so" for the entire haniwa army, the human spirits... and you, Lady Keiki!
Keiki
Heehee, that's the spirit.
Mayumi
There are so many different shops selling "so" sweets.
Mayumi
These horse-riding haniwa are so cute! ...Gah, I don't have time for window shopping!
Mayumi
I need to find beautiful "so" sculptures for Lady Keiki and "so" sweets for everyone in the Primate Spirit Garden!
Mayumi
Excuse me, I was hoping to buy some of these "so" sweets.
Japanese Sweet Shop Owner
Welcome! How many do you want?
Mayumi
All of them.
Japanese Sweet Shop Owner
Huh?
Mayumi
I want to buy all the "so" sweets you have. Although, that still might not be enough...
Japanese Sweet Shop Owner
Uh... OK. I'm not sure why you need so much, but... thanks!
Mayumi
Hm, I definitely need more.
Mayumi
Hey, you two over there! Please give me all the "so" sweets you've got!
Cheerful Taiyaki Shop Owner
O-OK! Give me a moment to wrap them up for you.
Western Sweet Shop Owner
I'll see how much I have left out back!
Mayumi
Ugh... I don't think me and the corp will be able to carry any more than this!
Mayumi
I suppose I'll head back to Lady Keiki for now.
Keiki
I see you've bought all you can carry.
Mayumi
I'm sorry, but could you please create more haniwa?
Keiki
Of course. I'll make a few extra to be on the safe side.
Mayumi
Thank you, Lady Keiki! I'll go get more sweets!
Mayumi
Let's take the rest of the "so" sculptures and sweets to Lady Keiki!
Mayumi
Huh? Some haniwa aren't carrying anything...
Mayumi
Oh, no! We don't have enough sweets for all the new haniwa. I'll go check out the other shops and buy more!
Mayumi
But I'd better ask Lady Keiki to create more haniwa first, just in case I buy too much again!
─Around the same time, PLAYER was on her way back from the Divine Spirit Mausoleum.
I had fun with Miss Miko and the others!
Huh? Who's that coming this way?
It's Miss Mayumi... and a whole army of haniwa!
O-Oh no, I'm going to get swept away!
???
Grab on to me!
Saki
Phew, that was close. Are you hurt?
No, I'm fine. Thanks to you, that is!
You saved me!
Saki
Hahaha, don't mention it! I'm just glad you're all right!
Saki
If you stick around here, you'll get in their way again.
Saki
Animal spirit attacks don't work on haniwa... but I can kick 'em out of the way to make a path through!
Saki
Hold on tight, PLAYER. I'm going full throttle!
Shopping Dash
Saki
Those haniwa finally left.
Saki
But what were they doing up here anyway? It couldn't be...
Saki
Hmmm, I've got a bad feeling about this.
Oh, look. I found some "so" sweets!
The haniwa you kicked away must've dropped them.
Saki
Did you say "so"? Wow, that takes me back. I used to eat that stuff when I thought no one was watching!
Lately, everyone's going crazy over "so" sweets!
Saki
Oh, so that's what the rumors in Hell were about.
Saki
But, I totally get it. Even Lady Taishi was a fan of this stuff!
Saki
All this talk about "so" has made me hungry. I'm gonna go buy some!
Saki
Hey, PLAYER, why don't you come along?
Saki
I could run around the village on my own, but it'd be nice if you showed me around.
Sure, I'll go with you!
(Besides, I don't think it's safe to let her go alone!)
Saki
Great! C'mon, let's go!
Saki
Whoa, what's this?! It's sold out everywhere!
Saki
Ugh! I would've given all my carrots for some "so"! Hmm, those people seem to have plenty. I'll go give 'em a kick―
H-Hold on! Just calm down!
Mike's shop might still have some!
Saki
R-Really? Then what're we waiting for?!
Mike
MEOOOW...! Everyone, please calm down!
Saki
What's all this commotion?!
Mike
Oh, hey! Can you two please help me out here?
Mike
Customers are flooding in to buy authentic "so"! I need an extra pair of hands. Human or horse, I don't care which!
Saki
What?! This is bad!
Saki
We better hurry, or there'll be no "so" left!
Is that really your main concern here?!
Saki
I'll kick my way through before it sells out!
Mike
Phew, thanks for chasing them away.
Mike
Having lots of customers is good, but I can't handle that many at once. Your next purchase is on the house!
Saki
Well, what I'm really after is some of your "so"...
Mike
Sorry, but I'm all out.
Mike
The customers you drove away were badgering me for more, even though I told them I didn't have any.
Saki
You've run out too?! I'll never get to eat any at this rate...
Mike
You came at a bad time... Aside from the regular customers, the Haniwa Army Corps were buying all the "so" in the area.
Saki
Huh? Did you say haniwa?!
Mike
Yeah... Why?
Saki
Those haniwa finally left.
Saki
But what were they doing up here anyway? It couldn't be...
Saki
Hmmm, I've got bad feeling about this.
Saki
I knew it! This is all Keiki Haniyasushin's fault!
Saki
C'mon, PLAYER! We're going after her! How dare she hog all the "so"!
W-Wait a minute!
Mike
Whoa... She sure is fast!
In Hot Pursuit
Chimata
Heh heh heh! The "so" sweets have been selling like hotcakes! This is the best market ever!
Tsukasa
See, I told you it was a good idea. Apparently, people are buying all the "so" they can get their hands on.
Chimata
What? Won't that disrupt the marketplace balance? Maybe I should step in.
Tsukasa
No way. I think a little imbalance adds to everyone's fun, human and youkai alike!
Tsukasa
Besides, it's Prank Festival season. The more intense things get, the better!
Chimata
Hmmm, I suppose that makes sense─
???
My goodness. I didn't think you'd actually go ahead and open up a market... You never learn, do you?
Tsukasa
L-Lady Iizunamaru?!
Tsukasa
Um, I just whispered a little suggestion in Lady Chimata's ear when I saw she was having a hard time.
Megumu
This "so" market was your idea, wasn't it?
Megumu
Tsukasa, I already told you your plan is bound to fail. That's why I rejected it.
Chimata
But the market is a hit!
Megumu
What about the hoarders and the rioters?
Chimata
Grrr...!
Chimata
That's it, I'm gonna make this market an even bigger success!
Chimata
Just you watch, Iizunamaru. I'll make you regret not getting in on this. Hmph!
Megumu
As stubborn as ever, I see.
Megumu
Well, don't say I didn't warn you. And Tsukasa, you'd better quit your scheming. Got that?
Tsukasa
I-I wasn't scheming. I was only whispering!
Megumu
*sigh* That's the problem.
Saki
Wait!
Keiki
Huh? What does the leader of the wolf spirits want from me?
Saki
I want you to hand over all the "so" your haniwa army is carrying!
Why do you need all of it?!
Can't you just ask for some of it?
Saki
Nope! I want it all! "So" is delicious, and I wanna share it with the Keiga Family.
Saki
You should've left some for me to buy!
Mayumi
We only bought what we needed. Just enough for the human spirits, the haniwa army, and the new haniwa.
Saki
New haniwa?! Why'd you make more of them?!
Keiki
We needed a few more to carry everything. So what?
Keiki
The reason you couldn't buy any "so" is because Mayumi beat you to it.
Keiki
You have no right to complain. And I don't plan on giving you any of our "so."
Saki
I shouldn't have bothered asking so nicely. I'll just take what I want by force!
M-Miss Saki, please calm down!
Remember, your attacks don't work on haniwa!
Saki
I can't back down now, it would set a bad example! At least let me get one good kick in!
Keiki
What a beastly thing to say... Well, all right. If you want a fight, you'll get one. Mayumi!
Mayumi
Got it! I'll defend our "so" for you, the human spirits, and all the haniwa!
Saki
Bring it on! I'll kick you all the way down to the Hell of Blood Pools!
Saki
It's not over!
Keiki
You really are stubborn. Give it up already.
Satori
...
Satori
I can't believe they're fighting for sweets here... Can't they take it somewhere else?
Koishi
Saaaaaaatoriiiii!
Utsuho & Rin
Lady Satori!
Satori
*sigh* Looks like I'll have to step in.
Making a Ruckus
Utsuho
Lady Satori, what's going on out there?!
Koishi
Urk... I can't sleep. Everything's shaking!
Rin
It's so noisy, and it doesn't sound like it'll stop anytime soon. Are the oni having a party or something?
Satori
Not a party per se...
Koishi
Saaaatooooriii! I wannaaaa sleeeeeeeeep!
Satori
It's loud now, but it'll only get worse if we ignore it.
Satori
Plus, PLAYER seems to be with them, and I'd hate for anything to happen to her.
Satori
Orin, Okuu, there's something I want you to do.
Saki
Damn it! That didn't settle anything... I need to get ready─
Rin ＆ Utsuho
Hey!
Utsuho
Quit making such a ruckus! ...Huh?
Saki
Why, if it isn't the Palace of the Earth Spirits pets. What are you doing here?
Rin
We came to ask you that exact question.
Rin
Lady Satori told us to stop all the fighting.
Utsuho
We thought PLAYER might be in danger. Hang on... Where did Keiki and the others go?
Saki
They ran off to the Primate Spirit Garden... Something about not wanting their "so" to go to waste.
Saki
But I'm not gonna let this slide. I'm gonna go back to my place and prepare for an all-out battle-to-end-all-battles!
That's some name...!
Aren't you taking this too far?!
Rin
That sounds dangerous... Why are you fighting anyway?
Utsuho
Lady Koishi's sleep─I mean, Former Hell's safety is at stake here!
Saki
OK, I'll tell you all about their dirty tricks!
Rin ＆ Utsuho
...
Saki
Well? Isn't what they did horrible?!
Utsuho
Um... So their dirty trick was to buy up all of the "so"?
Rin
Looks that way... but you gotta admit, what Keiki did was totally selfish.
Saki
I know, right?! Come on, PLAYER! Let's go to the Keiga Family hideout and prepare for battle!
Rin
W-Wait a minute! It's not safe to take a human to Hell... let alone the Animal Realm!
Saki
Hm, you've got a point. All right then, PLAYER, this is where we part ways.
Rin
Okuu, she might get into trouble if we leave her here. Can you take her up to the surface?
Rin
And while you're at it, check out what's going on up there. I'll keep an eye on Saki and Keiki in the meantime.
Utsuho
Got it! If anything happens, I'll let you know!
Saki
Hey! What're you two whispering about over there?
Rin
N-Nothing. I was just asking Okuu to escort PLAYER to the surface.
Saki
Oh, I see! Sorry I can't do it myself. Take good care of her!
Utsuho
C'mon, PLAYER, you'll be home in no time! Grab on tight!
O-OK! Thank...YOOOOOOOU!
Rin
I hope she doesn't drop her...
Miko to the Rescue
Utsuho
Whoa, this place is packed... Wh-What's going on here?!
Western Sweet Shop Owner
W-We're sold out! Please be patient till we get more!
Violent Customer
Quit lying and bring out the "so" cake!
Poor Customer
You've more than doubled your prices! I can't afford that!
Japanese Sweet Shop Owner
I'm sorry, but making "so" takes a lot of time and effort. I'm not running a charity here.
Wealthy Customer
I'll buy it! If money isn't enough, then I'll trade you for whatever ingredients you want!
This is getting out of hand!
"So" is all anyone's talking about!
Utsuho
They're like broken records...
Utsuho
Take my hand before we get separated─
Utsuho
Uh-oh. I lost her already!
Oh, no. I lost sight of Okuu.
Maybe I should ask someone if they've seen her...
Ill-Mannered Youkai
Hey, Missy! Are you lost?
Suspicious Youkai
Or are you running an errand? Perhaps to buy some "so"? Hehe.
(I-I don't like the looks of these two...!)
(I hope they're not kidnappers. Or worse, "so" thieves!)
Ill-Mannered Youkai
Give us all your "so," NOW!
Suspicious Youkai
If you play nice, we won't have to hurt you!
???
Get away from her.
Ill-Mannered Youkai
Wh-Who said that?!
Futo
Silence! We do not tolerate insolence directed toward Lady Taishi!
Tojiko
And how dare you try to steal from little PLAYER. You deserve a shock!
Miko
I shall not allow the weak to be mistreated. The people are mine to protect.
Ill-Mannered Youkai
I dunno what you're on about, but if I don't get any "so" soon, I'm gonna lose it.
Suspicious Youkai
I know! We'll take our frustration out on you guys!
Miko
Only a fool would resort to violence so readily. ...Fine. I'll put you in your place!
Ill-Mannered Youkai
Argh! There's no "so" left in the village. Guess we gotta go check the Youkai Mountain...
Suspicious Youkai
Yeah, they say that's where this craze started. Maybe there's even a market there. C'mon, let's go!
Miko
...I can't believe they left without a single word of apology.
Miko
Are you OK, PLAYER?
Y-Yes! Thanks to you guys, that is!
Thanks for rescuing me!
Miko
I was just doing my job. It's my duty to put an end to this unrest.
The whole village has gone crazy...
By the way, what's with the costumes?
Futo
Heh heh heh, I got them for everyone. We have to look our best when Lady Taishi's plan gets underway!
Futo
After this, I'm certain we'll gain more followers.
Tojiko
How come mine and yours have to stand out so bad, Futo...?
Don't worry. You all look great!
By the way, what exactly is Miss Miko going to do?
Miko
Nothing spectacular. I'm simply going to get this "so" situation under control─
Miko
─by introducing the people to something better... Daigo!
A Spoonful of Daigo
Futo
Behold, Lady Taishi's daigo! Here, taketh one!
Thanks! So this is the stuff you mentioned earlier.
It's wrapped up kinda weird... Oh, wow. It's cold!
Miko
Daigo is supposed to be chilled. It melts otherwise.
Tojiko
We got an expert to make this special, low-temperature packaging. The design was their idea...
Miko
Go on. Try it before it melts.
Utsuho
Aha! I finally found you!
Futo
Aren't ye the Hell raven from the Palace of the Earth Spirits?
Miko
Found whom? Are you talking about PLAYER?
Utsuho
Yes. We got separated in the crowd. Thanks for keeping her safe!
Utsuho
What are you holding, PLAYER? Is that chocolate? Or maybe youkan?
Miko
Neither. Here, you can have one, too. There's plenty to go around.
Utsuho
Mmm, yummy! It's cold and sweet... It's like I'm eating milk.
(How do you "eat" milk...?)
(It does taste familiar though...)
Miko
What do you think, PLAYER? If you don't like it, we can make some adjustments for the next batch.
No, it's delicious!
But what do you mean, "next batch"?
Miko
We're going to give all this daigo away.
Utsuho
Like, for free...?
Miko
Right now, this "so" craze is causing chaos in the village.
Miko
Some shopkeepers are working nonstop to fulfill orders while others have been jacking up their prices.
Miko
There's a shortage of "so," meaning very few actually get to eat it. Soon, the people will start to lose hope.
Miko
That, in turn, could potentially shroud Gensokyo in darkness. This isn't something we can afford to take lightly.
Utsuho
Uhhh, aren't you being a tad melodramatic? I agree all this "so" stuff has gone overboard, but they're just sweets...
Tojiko
A tiny spark can set the prairie ablaze. Besides, sweets have been at the center of civil unrests since time immemorial.
Futo
Thus, Lady Taishi took it upon herself to make daigo and save the people!
So that's the plan you were talking about.
Is there anything I can do to help?
Utsuho
Hold that thought! I'm supposed to drop you off at Hakurei Shrine...
Utsuho
But Lady Satori didn't mention anything about daigo...
Utsuho
Oh, I know! I'll help too!
Everyone
Huh?
Utsuho
I'll stay with PLAYER and help. Then when we're done, I'll drop her off at the shrine!
Utsuho
And this time, I won't lose her!
Miko
As you wish.
Miko
Greetings, "so" fans! I have an announcement to make!
Violent Customer
What's going on...?
Miko
I will restore hope to you all by offering you not "so," but daigo! And in doing so, I shall put an end to this unrest!
Futo
Come forth, and savor the delicacy Lady Taishi graciously prepared for you all!
Poor Customer
A-Are you sure it's not too expensive...?
Tojiko
Fear not, for Lady Taishi is most generous. All the daigo you see before you is free of charge!
Utsuho
But don't be greedy! All right, everyone, form a line!
Poor Customer
Y-Yummy! It's not quite the same as "so," but it's still delicious! I can't believe it's free!
Wealthy Customer
I know, right? "So" is tasty and all, but it's not something worth fighting over!
Futo
Lady Taishi, your plan's working!
Miko
Yes, I'm glad to see they're enjoying the daigo.
Seiran & Ringo
Whoa, whoa, whoa!
Seiran
How can you just give something like that away?!
Ringo
Our "so" dango were the talk of the town!
Seiran & Ringo
How dare you steal our customers! You'll pay for this!
Miko
I'd prefer to talk things out... but I know a lost cause when I see one.
Tojiko
I won't allow you to get in Lady Taishi's way! Show me what you've got!
Seiran & Ringo
*sob* We lost!
Futo
Lady Taishi...?
Miko
Here, take some daigo, you two.
Ringo
Huh, why would you do that?
Miko
The people are all equal in my eyes. Go on, have a taste.
Seiran
If you're sure it's OK...
Seiran & Ringo
Y-Yummy!
Seiran
I just got an idea to boost my sales―chilled "so" dango! I better get back and start making them!
Ringo
H-Hey, that's no fair! I'm gonna make them first!
Utsuho
They'll never change, huh?
Miko
Well, there's nothing wrong with working hard to create delectable sweets.
Sour Milk
Miko
No need to panic, there's plenty to go around. Forget about "so." Come give this daigo a try!
Futo
Liketh the taste? Then thou shouldst join the Divine Spirit Mausoleum─
Tojiko
Will you give it a rest? Now's not the time for a recruitment pitch! Besides, people are starting to look at you funny.
Futo
Argh, sorry... I couldn't help myself.
Miko
All those who haven't tried our daigo yet, there's no need to be shy. Come forth, and eat your fill!
Chimata
I was wondering why the "so" market had died down... Tsukasa was right.
Chimata
Creating a rival product to "so," then giving it away... What utter disrespect for the laws of the market!
Chimata
I can't turn a blind eye to this. I know what I have to do.
Miko
Giving away all that daigo certainly helped calm things down in the village, but now we've got another problem...
Futo
We need milk to make daigo, but the price has just skyrocketed!
It's just like when the "so" craze started.
People ran around buying as much as they could.
Tojiko
Buying up "so" makes sense, but why milk? I've never seen it in such high demand.
Futo
We'll either have to give up on making daigo, or say farewell to our savings.
Miko
Hm, we need to do something before the people's craving for "so" returns...
Um, Okuu... do you have a moment?
Can't we just ask Miss Saki to provide milk for us?
Utsuho
The leader of the wolf spirits?!
Tojiko
What are you two talking about?
Utsuho
N-Nothing!
Utsuho
Are you seriously thinking of asking Saki Kurokoma for help?
Utsuho
I don't know what she'll say... but I suppose it's better than doing nothing. I'm coming too!
Utsuho
Hey, guys! We may be able to get you some milk!
Futo
R-Really? How?!
Utsuho
We can't explain right now, but PLAYER and I are on the case!
Utsuho
Just give us some time to figure it all out, OK?
Miko
All right, we're counting on you. In the meantime, we'll see if we can't solve this ourselves.
Utsuho
Good luck! We'll try not to take too long!
Chimata
Heh heh heh! Now Toyosatomimi no Miko is powerless!
Megumu
That's great, but what's with all this milk? Don't tell me you bought it yourself?
Chimata
I sure did. I bought every drop I could find! Now with the price of milk soaring, they'll have to give up making daigo!
Tsukasa
But what are you gonna do with it all? ...Hang on, isn't "so" also made from milk?
Chimata
I'll sell it off one pint at a time. The "so" craze might have taken a hit, but the milk craze is about to begin!
Tsukasa
I get it. Buy it for cheap, sell it for more! You're a genius, Miss Chimata!
Megumu
Oh, my. This can only end badly...
A Shrine Under Siege
So-Starved Youkai
Got any "so"?!
Reimu
How many times have I gotta tell you?! We're a shrine, not a sweets shop!
Aunn
What's with all these visitors asking for "so"?
Reimu
I don't know. Maybe something's happening in the village.
Reimu
But we can't go investigate with all these people constantly showing up! We can't even go look for PLAYER!
Aunn
I'm worried about her. Let's get rid of our unwanted visitors!
Reimu
There's no end in sight. They just keep coming!
Aunn
I wanna go look for Miss PLAYER!
Milk-Deprived Human
Anybody there? Please give us some milk!
Reimu
Ugh. Go away! We're a shrine, not a shop! And if you're gonna show up like this, at least make an offering!
Aunn
Miss Reimu...
A Battle of Kindness
Mayumi
You pesky horse! As soon as we made it to the Primate Spirit Garden with the "so," you chased us back out again!
Saki
You're mine. There's no way you can out run me. I'm the head of the Keiga Family!
Mayumi
Who's running?! And quit your blabbering. You know your attacks don't work on haniwa...
Mayumi
That's why you're getting your spirits to target the "so." I have to admit, that's pretty smart for a beast like you.
Mayumi
You've chased us round every corner of Hell.
Saki
If you're tired, why don't you hand over the "so"?
Mayumi
As if. The Haniwa Army Corps never surrender!
Rin
STOP!
Rin
*huff* *huff* I finally caught up. Are you fighting in front of the palace again?!
Rin
...Aaaand no one's listening!
Rin
Fine. I'll head inside and report everything to Lady Satori... Huh?
Utsuho
Hey, Orin! Are these guys fighting again?!
Rin
Okuu! Huh...? Why is PLAYER still with you?!
Sorry, but there's trouble on the surface again!
I need Miss Saki's help!
Rin
The head of the Keiga Family? I don't know what you need from her, but as you can see, it's dangerous here.
Saki
She's right. Now, get yourself back to the surface!
B-But we really need your help!
And violence never solves anything...!
Saki
...
Saki
Hey! Listen up, you crazy haniwa. We're gonna put this dispute on hold for now.
Mayumi
Fine... I was about to suggest the same thing. We're going back to the Primate Spirit Garden.
Utsuho
They stopped fighting just like that...
Rin
Yeah, but things are still pretty tense.
Saki
Didn't I tell you to go back to the surface?
But I need your help!
And besides, I'm worried about you!
Saki
Does it look like I care? Shut up and leave, you three. Or else─
Saki
―I've got some bullets with your names on them!
Utsuho
Mayumi and the haniwa left already! How come you're attacking us?!
Saki
Because you're annoying me!
Rin
...Do you really mean that?
Saki
Would I attack you if I didn't?
Rin
Let's see... First, you took your fighting far from the palace. Then, when you ended up back here, you sent Mayumi away.
Rin
And now you're trying to get rid of us too... I think you're doing all this to keep PLAYER out of danger.
Rin
I'm right, aren't I?
Saki
...!
Utsuho
I don't know what's really going on here, but can't you just be straight with us?!
Utsuho
You can quit the tough-guy act. We don't want anything to happen to PLAYER either!
Rin
Yeah. Besides, you've already dragged all of us into this mess!
Rin
If you're so worried about PLAYER, don't you think it'd be better to fill us all in?
Saki
Gah, fine. Looks like I can't get rid of you as easily as Kicchou!
Saki
You guys are right. It's not safe for PLAYER to be around when bullets are flying all over.
Saki
Weren't you supposed to take her above ground? What happened?
We came back to ask for your help!
We need you to get us milk... Lots of it!
Saki
Milk? I didn't see that coming...
Utsuho
Right now, milk is just as hard to come by on the surface as "so" is.
Utsuho
We were using it to make daigo so people would stop fighting over "so," but we've run out.
Saki
Hmm... So you need milk to make "so" and this daigo stuff, huh?
Saki
(If the Keiga Family controls the supply of milk, we'll make a fortune...!)
Saki
(And we'll have unlimited access to "so"!)
Saki
OK. If it's milk you need, it's milk you'll get.
Utsuho
Really? You don't wanna argue about it first?! Thanks!
Saki
Heh heh heh! Kicchou and Toutetsu will be so jealous when I get rich selling milk to people on the surface!
Being a Leader
Keiki
Mayumi told me you put your fight on hold...
Keiki
What's gotten into you?
Saki
It's simple. I don't have any reason to fight you right now. You can keep all your "so."
Keiki
I don't know what you're up to, but don't think for a second that this is over.
Saki
What do you mean?
Mayumi
You attacked us unprovoked. We're the victims here. You seriously expect Lady Keiki to just forget about that?
Keiki
Exactly. And who's to say you aren't trying to trick us?
Saki
Huh?! No one from the Keiga Family would stoop that low!
Mayumi
Look at how you get worked up at the drop of a hat. We'd be fools to trust you!
Keiki
This is getting us nowhere... Let's settle this with a battle of bullets.
Saki
Couldn't have said it better myself!
How did it come to this?!
Isn't there a peaceful solution? ...Guys?
Utsuho
It's useless trying to reason with them.
Rin
They have a history. We should stay out of it.
Saki
C'mon! Let's do this!
Keiki
That's bold of you when you very well know your attacks won't work. Although, I suppose you are just a beast.
Mayumi
Bring it on! You'll regret ever getting in our way!
Keiki
That's enough... We accept your temporary truce.
Mayumi
What?!
Saki
Well, better late than never, I suppose.
Keiki
But you have to agree to two conditions.
Saki
Tch. I should've expected as much. Gone on then, spit 'em out.
Keiki
First, you have to provide us with the ingredients for "so."
Mayumi
Hm, I see. If we can make it ourselves, it'll save us the trouble of going to the surface to buy it.
Saki
Heh, that's no big deal! I accept!
Keiki
Good. But there's a second condition.
Keiki
You have to apologize for all the times you've harassed us, including this time.
Rin & Utsuho
What?!
Utsuho
There's no way the head of the Keiga Family would apologize!
Rin
It sounds like we're in for more trouble...
Saki
I'm sorry for my actions and how I caused you to lose some of your "so."
Saki
I, Saki Kurokoma, head of the Keiga Family, apologize to you on behalf of my entire clan.
Mayumi & Keiki
...?!
D-Did that just happen?!
Um, why did you apologize to her, Miss Saki?
Saki
Etiquette is an important part of being a leader.
Keiga Family
B-Boss...!
Rin
Well that was unexpected.
Utsuho
Her entire clan is close to tears!
Keiki
Why...?
Saki
Why what?
Keiki
Why did you apologize? You pride yourself on being the leader of beasts...
Saki
I told you why. But maybe there's another reason...
Saki
Back when I belonged to a prince, I saw them apologize in a similar situation.
Keiki
...
Keiki
I'm sorry, too. As the leader of the haniwa and the Primate Spirit Garden, I apologize for buying all the "so."
Mayumi
L-Lady Keiki? Wh-Why?!
Keiki
For the same reason as Saki Kurokoma.
Saki
...
Keiki
Although I never expected to be following her example.
Utsuho
Soooo... everything's settled here, right?
Rin
Looks like it. We finally have some good news to report to Lady Satori.
Different Paths
Utsuho
I know we said we need milk but isn't this kinda a lot?!
Rin
Even I'm having trouble carrying all this!
Saki
Really? It's a piece of cake when you're as strong as me!
Saki
Train with me some time and I'll give you some pointers! The most important muscles for lifting are─
Rin
A-Anyway! How did this "so" craze even start?
Rin
I heard "so" sweets are all sold out in the village. Any idea what's going on, PLAYER?
Hmm, what about those scary youkai from before?
They said something interesting...
Ill-Mannered Youkai
Argh! There's no "so" left in the village. Guess we gotta go check the Youkai Mountain...
Suspicious Youkai
Yeah, they say that's where this craze started. Maybe there's even a market there. C'mon, let's go!
Saki
So if we head to the Youkai Mountain, we might find the person behind all this.
Saki
OK, I'm gonna go look for them!
Saki
I won't feel right till I've given 'em a good kick!
Saki
Good luck carrying the milk to the village!
Utsuho
What?! We can't carry yours as well!
Saki
HA HA HA! Think of this as part of your training!
Rin & Utsuho
HOW WILL THAT HELP?!
Saki
If you have the energy to be screaming at me, you have the energy to carry milk!
Saki
I'm gonna scour the mountain from top to bottom and find our culprit! See ya!
Rin
Ugh! Just when I thought I'd have time to report to Lady Satori! Why did Saki have to run off like that?!
Rin
Hold this, Okuu. I'm gonna go after her!
Utsuho
Not you too?! I-I can't carry any more milk!
Miko
You all have been a great help. I just handed over the milk to Nitori. We should have more daigo soon.
I didn't know it was made by kappa!
I guess the packaging kinda gives it away though!
Futo
Indeed. Only they have the technical know-how required to produce it!
Tojiko
She charged us extra to get it done quick. Her business sense is on par with your follower recruiting skills, Futo.
Futo
Tch. Don't make me laugh!
Miko
Sorry to interrupt, but we have a lot to do before the daigo gets here.
Utsuho
Like what?
Miko
Stopping the person behind all this unrest.
Futo
What?! Thou already knowest who the culprit is?!
Miko
I have an idea. Let's go over what we know about them.
Miko
Firstly, they know about "so"―
Miko
―which means they must be familiar with the aristocratic era from our nation's past.
Tojiko
That's true. So I suppose we can rule out all the Western youkai.
Miko
Yes. But an even bigger clue lies in how fast the "so" craze took hold, and how they managed to manipulate the market.
Miko
There was a shortage, but it never vanished altogether. Then came the shortage of milk and the spike in its cost...
Miko
Which happened just after we started giving away daigo.
Miko
It's like they knew what we were planning.
Futo
So we're looking for someone capable of pulling all that off.
Utsuho
PLAYER, didn't you say you heard this all began on the Youkai Mountain?
Yep. Apparently, that's where the "so" craze started.
There might even be a market there...
Miko
If that's true, then the person we're looking for has got to be─
Miko
─the god of markets from the Youkai Mountain. She may not be the sole culprit, but she's certainly involved.
Tojiko
That makes sense. But don't you think we're jumping to conclusions?
Futo
Tojiko is right! There's nothing wrong with thy deduction skills, Lady Taishi, but...
Futo
...maybe we should investigate further before making our move!
Miko
Your concerns are valid. However, sometimes decisive action is the key to victory.
Miko
I was once saved by the swiftness of my beloved horse. Speed has the power to turn the tides in your favor.
Futo
Very well, Lady Taishi. Tojiko and I shall accompany thee to the Youkai Mountain!
Utsuho
I'm guessing you won't listen if we tell you not to go, right, PLAYER?
We've come this far. I want to see it through!
Utsuho
Haha, I knew you'd say that!
Utsuho
And I agree. Let's finish this!
The Culprit
Chimata
The market's booming with everyone scrambling to buy "so" and milk! Time to take things up a notch!
Tsukasa
Miss Chimata seems to be enjoying herself. ...Huh?
Tsukasa
It's the troublemakers who were giving away sweets in the village. I can't believe they've already sniffed us out...
Tsukasa
Looks like Lady Iizunamaru was right, after all. I better get outta here.
Miko
Aha! I knew you were behind all of this, Chimata Tenkyuu!
Chimata
You...! You're the scoundrels who were giving those sweets away!
Futo
How darest thou disrespect Lady Taishi!
Tojiko
And don't go pointing fingers at us when you're the one who created this mess!
Chimata
What mess? There's nothing wrong with a bustling market!
Chimata
The shop owners and the customers are both loving it, so quit your meddling!
Miko
Do you seriously think that?
Chimata
Why wouldn't I?
Miko
The market might be making some people rich, but their happiness is only superficial. It won't last.
Miko
Soon they'll all lose hope.
Chimata
...!
Miko
The "so" craze has divided people into the haves and the have-nots. And now, they are fighting among themselves.
Chimata
Th-That might be true, but...!
Miko
If this continues, the rift between rich and poor will continue to grow, leading to chaos and, eventually, despair.
Miko
Markets are not just about making money. They should also bring people joy.
Miko
Harmony is of utmost importance.
Chimata
Y-You think I don't know that?!
Miss Chimata, there's still time to fix this...!
Please! Return the market to normal!
Chimata
Argh! I'd rather just get rid of all of you and put an end to your disrespect for the market!
Miko
So you've chosen violence... So be it. But know this―
Miko
You, the god of markets, are the one disrespecting them!
Chimata
You don't need to tell me... I already know I've taken this too far.
Futo
Then why didst thou not cease?
Chimata
Because someone kept whispering ideas in my ear... Huh? Wh-Where'd she go?!
Tojiko
It looks like we still haven't caught the main culprit.
Rin
*sigh* She's not here either!
Utsuho
Orin! What're you doing here?!
Rin
We found the culprit at the foot of the mountain! But she was too quick, so we split up to look for her!
Utsuho
Really?! That must've been the person Chimata's talking about!
Rin
For real?! OK, let's check by the river!
Miko
So you've already had a run-in with the main culprit?
Rin
Yeah, but we haven't managed to catch her yet.
Miko
Sorry, but can we leave that to you? We need to make sure Chimata returns the market to normal.
Utsuho
No problem! Good luck with Chimata!
Tojiko
Don't worry, we can handle her. If she tries anything, I'll give her a taste of thunder!
Futo
I shan't hold back, either! My plates should beest enow to teach her a lesson!
Chimata
EEEEEEEEEEEEEK!
Rin
I kinda feel bad for her... Anyway, we better hurry!
The Other Culprit
Tsukasa
Phew, I think this is far enough. I can't believe they actually came after me.
Tsukasa
I thought I'd be able to pocket some cash, but the market started collapsing... Maybe I took things too far.
Tsukasa
I better run before they catch up.
Saki
I finally found you, you conniving kuda-gitsune!
Tsukasa
Th-The leader of the Keiga Family?!
Tsukasa
Um, what could you possibly want from me?
Saki
I'll get straight to the point. You're the one behind the "so" craze that started on the Youkai Mountain, aren't you?
Tsukasa
I don't know what you're talking about! I haven't done anything. Wh-Where's your proof?
Saki
I have none. But I don't need any to know you're guilty!
Saki
Give yourself up!
Tsukasa
(Hmm, I should be able to talk myself out of this, but it might not be easy...)
Tsukasa
Fine. Punish me however you see fit.
Tsukasa
...Just kidding!
Saki
Tch, so I'm surrounded by youkai now, huh? I suppose this was your doing?
Tsukasa
Guilty as charged. A little whispering goes a long way on the Youkai Mountain. What will you do now?
Saki
...Do you hear that?
Tsukasa
Hear what?
Saki
Oh, nothing. Just the sound of a bunch of meddlers coming this way.
Tsukasa
What on earth are you─
Rin
Whoa! That's a lot of youkai!
Utsuho
I dunno what's going on here, but it looks like we made it just in time!
Miss Saki! We're here to help!
Saki
I don't remember asking for any. But it's strange...
Saki
Despite being outnumbered, I feel like there's no way we can lose!
Tsukasa
*chuckle* This is your last chance to back down.
Tsukasa
If you don't, you might not live to see another day!
Saki
And then there was one.
Tsukasa
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEK!
Saki
Don't you dare do anything like this again. The next time you cause trouble for the Keiga Family, I'll─
Tsukasa
N-No!
Tsukasa
I-I'm sorry! I won't do it again, I promise!
Utsuho
She got away!
Rin
Pretty sure she got the message. Her scheming days are over... for a while, at least.
Utsuho
I was worried Miss Saki might beat her senseless.
Saki
I wanted to give her a good kick, but something didn't feel right. I guess violence isn't ALWAYS the answer.
Saki
As they say, harmony is of utmost importance.
A Celebratory Party
Reimu
Oh, wow. I never imagined your little shopping trip would turn into such an adventure...
Aunn
I knew I should've tagged along! I'm sorry, Miss PLAYER!
Don't worry, I'm OK!
I even brought back some gifts!
Reimu
So this is daigo, huh?
Reimu
And I see you've brought everyone with you. A little warning might've been nice...
Sanae
Maybe, but this daigo was specially made by Miss Miko! It'll be more fun if we all eat it together!
Futo
'Tis ready!
Tojiko
Whoa, so that's why you're the head maid of the Scarlet Devil Mansion!
Sakuya
I prepare meals and clean the entire mansion every day. Serving daigo is a walk in the park.
Miko
It looks like everyone's got some. Let's eat!
Everyone
Yay!
Remilia
Oh, my. This is actually quite scrumptious.
Reimu
I feel like I've had it before.
Sanae
Yeah! It definitely tastes familiar.
You think so, too?
It's sweet and refreshing, a bit like... Umm...
Sakuya
Hmmm...
Sanae
Like ice-cream! The creamy texture, the packaging... everything!
Miko
That's right. I prepared it in the same way you would ice-cream.
Miko
Making "so" is very time-consuming, but for daigo, you only need to wait for the milk to thicken.
Miko
Daigo tastes much better than "so," but it wouldn't have won people over if we'd sold it as is.
Miko
We decided to sell it like ice-cream because, well, who doesn't like ice-cream? Plus, no one was selling any in the village.
Reimu
That sure was smart.
Remilia
This special packaging makes it easy to carry around. Do you mind if I take some for my sister?
Miko
Go ahead. We just want everyone to enjoy daigo!
Reimu
Wow, it's already so late.
Sanae
Time flies when you're having fun! I hate to say it, but I'd better get going.
Miko
We should head back as well.
...
Miko
What's wrong, PLAYER?
Um, I just wanted to get some fresh air!
Miko
Hm, I see. It's dark out, so don't wander off too far.
Saki
Whoa, what're you doing out so late at night? Don't you know it's dangerous?
Miss Saki! I knew you'd come!
You should join the party!
Saki
Nah, I'm good. It looks a bit too lively in there for me.
Saki
And anyway, the leader of the wolf spirits can't be seen mingling at these sorts of events.
Then why are you here?
Saki
Just out for a run like always. But I'm headed back now. Go enjoy your party!
Saki
Maybe I'll join the next one... Maybe.
Unfinished Business
Tsukasa
Hello, everyone. Long time no see.
Tsukasa?!
Pretty sure it hasn't been that long!
Tsukasa
Guess not! That Keiga Family leader sure was scary though.
Tsukasa
I had no choice but to run for my life!
Tsukasa
It's a shame things didn't work out with the market after you guys stopped me and Miss Chimata.
Huh? What are you talking about?
Tsukasa
You don't know what happened? OK, I'll fill you in.
Mike
*sigh* Where are all the customers? I could always use my ability, but still...
Mike
Now the craze has ended, I've got loads of "so" but no customers... I'm boooored!
Seiran
Come get some deliciously chilled "so" dango!
Ringo
Buy one get nine free!
Seiran & Ringo
Somebody... Anybody! Please!
Tsukasa
I suppose that was bound to happen after Miss Chimata put everything back to normal.
Tsukasa
You guys teamed up with the Keiga Family to acquire tons of milk, right?
Tsukasa
At first, everyone was happy using it to make more "so," but...
Saki
H-How can this be happening? Why is there so much milk left over?!
Saki
All this milk was supposed to make us rich and powerful... I don't understand!
Yachie
The "so" craze was never going to last, and neither was the milk shortage. You've only got yourself to blame.
Tsukasa
─Pretty sure they started arguing after that.
Reimu
So... are you gonna tell us why you called us out here or not?
Tsukasa
Oh, right. I have a proposal for you guys.
Tsukasa
I've found a solution to the surplus milk problem in the village.
Reimu
Oh, really? And what's that?
Tsukasa
A tasting party! We can use the milk to make sweets for everyone to try!
Tsukasa
And since the goal is to use up all the milk, we won't have to charge people to take part. I'll handle any costs.
Tsukasa
I'm the one who caused the unrest, so this is my way of making up for it. Plus, Miss Saki gave me a real fright...
Nemuno
A tastin' party, ya say? That's perfect for me new dish I wanted ter try out!
Yuyuko
So there'll be lots of delicious food, huh? So long as I don't stuff myself, I should be able to keep it a secret from Youmu.
Tsukasa
I'm glad to see everyone's excited. But for this to work, you'll have to─
Tsukasa
Oops, there I go whispering again...!
Miko
None of us want to see all the milk go to waste.
Miko
I like your idea, but are you sure you aren't up to something shady again?
Tsukasa
I already told you I'm just trying to make up for what I did.
Megumu
Well, Tsukasa does have a reputation, so I don't blame you for doubting her.
Megumu
But I can assure you she's been working hard making arrangements for this tasting party.
Megumu
I think we should give her the benefit of the doubt this time.
Tsukasa
L-Lady Iizunamaru...!
Miko
If the Great Tengu is on board, then I suppose we are too.
Futo
Thou best not betray Lady Taishi's trust! Else thou shalt not get off easy!
Tojiko
I'll electrocute every bone in your body!
Tsukasa
EEK! OK, OK, I get the point!
Reimu
Well, I don't mind taking part, but what's in it for us?
Tsukasa
Um, I don't think we can afford thank-you presents for the participants...
What if we make it a competition?
The person who makes the best sweets wins!
Reimu
Wow... you always come up with such good ideas.
Reimu
All right then! Time to show everyone what the Hakurei shrine maiden is made of!
Reimu
We can hold the tasting party at the shrine. We've even got some drinks left over from the last party.
Tsukasa
Whoa! Thanks, Miss Reimu!
Tsukasa
It's settled, then. We'll hold the Grand Hakurei Tasting Party tomorrow at Hakurei Shrine!
Chef ＆ Starving Taste Tester
YEAH!
Reimu
I don't remember saying she could use Hakurei in the name. But I guess it's good advertising...
A Taste of Home
Tsukasa
Welcome to the Grand Hakurei Tasting Party! I'm your host, Tsukasa Kudamaki.
Reimu
Whoa, what a turnout.
Aunn
It sure is packed! Maybe because everyone knows all the best food comes in autumn!
Reimu
I doubt it. Free food will always attract a crowd.
Tsukasa
First up we have Nemuno Sakata! How's everything going?
Nemuno
I just got done with me prep. Now I gotta let it stew before I can serve it up.
Tsukasa
Wow, it looks like you've put in a lot of effort!
Nemuno
I wanted ter make somethin' delicious for everyone, so I got freshly picked onions, carrots, mushrooms and freshwater fish.
Tsukasa
Those are some amazing ingredients! Where did you learn how to make this?
Nemuno
It was in a cook book from the outside world I got from one of me customers. I've been wantin' to make it fer ages.
Nemuno
The recipe be tellin' me to mix milk with flour and let it thicken up... and then I gotta add this for the finishin' touch!
Tsukasa
I-Is that "so"? Is that your secret ingredient?!
Nemuno
Yeah, it ain't a bad idea to use up the leftover "so" neither.
Nemuno
It's gonna be delish!
Tsukasa
It sure sounds like it! I can't wait to try it!
Nemuno
C'mon! Ya better dig in while it's still hot!
Reimu
W-Wow! This looks amazing. Way to go, Nemuno!
Aunn
It smells yummy!
Starving Taste Testers
Let's eat!
Yuyuko
Mmm, it's delicious! I've got to get Youmu to make this sometime.
Shion
It really hits the spot! I wonder if the grass I always eat would be this delicious if I stewed it like this!
Momoyo
This is sooo delicious! I'm glad I listened to Iizunamaru when she said I should come along!
Megumu
Hahaha! I told you it'd be worth it. There's a lot more to come. And thanks to Tsukasa, it's all free.
Momoyo
For real?! Then I gotta get some more!
Tsukasa
M-Miss Momoyo... please don't overdo it! The other two have already eaten most of the food!
Tsukasa
Why don't you try and be more like Miss Chimata?!
Chimata
*sigh* I think I need to lie down...
Megumu
What's wrong, Chimata? You haven't eaten much at all.
Nemuno
Ain't to yer taste...?
Chimata
No, it's very delicious. I was just thinking that Miko was right about what happened. I'm not fit to be the god of markets...
Megumu
What's done is done. And since then, you've been doing everything you can to stabilize the market.
Megumu
Don't you think it'd be better to start your next business venture after a delicious meal?
Chimata
Iizunamaru...
Momoyo
Hey, Chimata. If you're not gonna eat that, then I will!
Chimata
Hands off! I'm going to stuff myself and prepare to open my next market!
Tsukasa
*sigh* Now I have to feed Miss Chimata, too...
Chimata
This time, the market will be bustling with happy customers!
Sanae
This cream stew is yummy! It tastes like home!
Kanako & Suwako
Huh?!
Suwako
Oh, no, Kanako! Did you see that smile on her face just now?! I've never seen her so happy!
Kanako
I hate to admit it, but I think we gotta learn how to make this.
Kanako & Suwako
For Sanae!
Remilia
That was scrumptious. Not as good as Sakuya's cooking, but still very good.
Rumia
I didn't know fish flesh could taste so good! Maybe I'll get Cirno to catch some for me.
Tsukasa
Ahem. I know everyone's enjoying Nemuno's dish, but I'm going to have to interrupt...
Nemuno
Huh? What's goin' on?
Tsukasa
I don't deny it was delicious... but the theme of this tasting party is "sweets."
Everyone
Oh, yeah.
Starving Taste Testers
*nom* *nom* *nom* *nom* *nom* *nom*
Reimu
I completely forgot about that. I was gonna serve up milk miso soup or something.
Ew, milk miso soup?!
Reimu
What? Milk miso soup is actually pretty good, you know?! I reckon it's just as delicious as this!
Everyone
...
Reimu
Whatever! If you don't believe me, then I'll just have to convince you... with my bullets!
Reimu
Grrrr! I'll force you all to drink it if I have to!
Aunn
C-Calm down, Miss Reimu! I like your milk miso soup!
The name just took me by surprise...
But I remember trying it before, and it wasn't bad!
Reimu
Aww, you guys...
Reimu
OK... I'll prepare some proper milk sweets for everyone.
Everyone
Phew...
Reimu
But you better get ready for the Grand Hakurei Milk Miso Soup Tasting Party!
Everyone
EEEEK!
Starving Taste Testers
*drool*
A Top-Secret Ingredient
Tsukasa
Next up, we have Tewi Inaba! What's with that huge box though...?
Tewi
Tada! It's filled with special sweets made by all the rabbits!
Tsukasa
Whoa, cream puffs! And so many of them! It just shows how hard the rabbits must've worked!
Yuyuko
Oh, my. They look delicious!
Shion
There must be hundreds of them! Can we start eating already?!
Momoyo
Nemuno's dish didn't fill me up. I gotta stuff myself with this one, too!
Tsukasa
C-Calm down, everyone! They'll all get squished!
Tsukasa's right!
Don't harm the cream puffs!
Yuyuko
I guess we need to calm down a little.
Tsukasa
Miss Tewi, why don't you serve these on a plate?
Tsukasa
I'm sure you have other preparations to make as well... right?
Tewi
Oh, yeah. Thanks for reminding me...!
Tewi
OK, I'll be right back!
Reimu
I hope they aren't up to something.
Megumu
I'm surprised to see them getting along so well.
Tewi
Hehehe, thanks to Tsukasa, my cream puff prank is better than ever.
Tewi
Every cream puff needs a little wasabi! Hm, these ones look like they could do with a little more!
Tewi
And my Super Spicy Special Cream Puffs are ready! This is going to be the best prank ever!
Tewi
Huh? Someone's coming...!
Yuyuko
I can't wait for those cream puffs! I wonder how long it'll be.
Shion
Tewi's not done preparing them yet. I just want to eat something.
Momoyo
I smell something sweet... Huh?
Momoyo
Hey, rabbit over there! What's that in your hand?
Tewi
Oh, no! They'll eat all the cream puffs before anyone else gets to try them!
Yuyuko
Can I have one of those?
Shion
What about two? Or three?
Momoyo
Or a whole plate's worth... Wait, wasn't there a whole box full of these? I wanna eat 'em all!
Tewi
U-Um... I was about to serve these up. Why don't you guys go wait with the others?
Yuyuko
Hmm...
Tewi
(Wow, maybe they'll actually listen to me.)
Starving Taste Testers
We want them now!
Tewi
Welp, guess not!
Tewi
*wheeze* *wheeze* I'm back with the cream puffs!
Tsukasa
Why are you out of breath? Are you OK?
Tewi
I'm fine! But I was ambushed by three hungry taste testers.
Tsukasa
Oh, so that's where they ran off to.
Tewi
You can dig in now!
Megumu
Eek!
Tewi
(Teehee, the prank worked! Soon they'll all have a mouthful of wasabi!)
Megumu
This is delicious!
Tewi
Huh?!
Tewi
Wh-Why didn't it work?! I made sure to mix the wasabi in with the cream so no one would suspect anything!
Tewi
I know. I'll try one myself! *chomp* *chomp*
Tewi
...WAHHH! IT BURNS!
Reimu
Tewi is making weird faces. I knew she was up to no good.
Ringo
Maybe it's because of these wasabi cream puffs.
Reimu
Huh? I didn't know there was wasabi in them!
Sanae
Now you mention it, it does have a peculiar taste. I think I want another one...!
Sakuya
Me too. It's different... but the taste grows on you.
Seiran
I wasn't busy at the shop, so I helped mix everything. Maybe the cream cancels out the wasabi flavor.
Tewi
*cough* *splutter*! C-Cancels out?!
Shion
Now I get why you were being so protective over the cream puffs.
Momoyo
You wanted everyone to try them because you knew how delicious they were. I have newfound respect for you!
Yuyuko
Now I feel bad about attacking you.
Shion
Me too. Can we have some please? We promise we won't take too many.
Tewi
S-Sure...
Momoyo
Yay! Thanks!
Starving Taste Testers
Yummy!
Miko
Yes, these are truly delicious.
Yuyuko
Can I have some more?
Tewi
S-Sure. Have as many as you like... *sigh*
Tsukasa
Poor Miss Tewi. She doesn't know whether to be happy or sad.
Pudding for All
Tsukasa
And now for our final chef! What dish will she serve?! I sure hope it's not milk miso soup!
Reimu
I've made some of that too, so don't forget to try it!
Everyone
Uh...
Reimu
But here's a very special sweet dish prepared by yours truly, the Hakurei shrine maiden!
Tsukasa
Wow, it's loaded with mandarins and peaches! It's all wobbly and shiny...
Reimu
It's agar milk jelly!
Sakuya
Did you say agar? Seaweed's not easy to come by in Gensokyo. Did Tsukasa get it for you?
Tsukasa
No, I only gave her the fruits and the honey to coat them in.
Reimu
I got the agar myself. I wanted to treat everyone to something super delicious!
Aunn
Wow, Miss Reimu! I've been with you all along, but I never noticed how much you cared!
Me neither! I mean, you're usually just...
...nibbling on rice crackers without a care in the world!
Reimu
How rude. I have a heart, you know?
Yuyuko
This jelly looks great. It reminds me of Youmu's phantom half.
Momoyo
It's got a crystal-like sheen! I don't know how much it's worth, but I know quality when I see it!
Shion
I wonder if something made with such a rare ingredient will fill us up!
Starving Taste Testers
Let's dig in─
Reimu
Hold it right there!
Reimu
Didn't you hear Sakuya? Seaweed is hard to come by, which means it's expensive.
Reimu
And I've used a ton of it...
Reimu
So you better make some offerings before you start eating!
Everyone
Huh?!
Remilia
I thought you made it for us because you cared.
Chimata
That Hakurei shrine maiden is always out to make a buck, huh?
Megumu
I don't think it has anything to do with her being a shrine maiden. Her business sense is actually kinda impressive...
Shion
*sob* I can't eat it if I have to pay for it first!
Joon
Don't worry, Shion! I'm here!
Shion
Joon?! When did you get here?
Joon
I possessed that kuda-gitsune over there. I knew you'd come to this tasting party!
Tsukasa
So that's why I was so willing to spend all that money on the ingredients. It was the pestilence god's fault... *sob*
Megumu
That sure was unlucky, what with you doing this to make amends and all.
Joon
C'mon! Let's eat as much agar milk jelly as we can!
Shion
Yeah!
Futo
Those two sisters art most wondrous. Tojiko, why don't we try to be more like them─
Tojiko
What did you say, Futo?
Futo
Oh, nothing.
Miko
I know she used a special ingredient, but I don't think it's appropriate to charge people for it at a free event.
Reimu
Heehee, I've never seen the offering box so full. We should have more of these tasting parties.
Flandre
Woooooow, this is yummy! I'm glad I tagged along with Remilia!
Yuyuko
This dish is exquisite. It almost feels like a waste to eat it all in one go.
Momoyo
Yeah, munching it down doesn't feel right. But it's just so good! I can't stop eating it!
Megumu
I'm the one who's paying for this, you know? So please take it easy, or I'll run out of money.
Shion
I'm just glad to eat something so exquisite!
Joon
Yeah! Now let's have some more!
Futo
Lady Taishi... what's wrong?
Miko
Hm, there's something not right about this agar jelly.
Tojiko
What do you mean?
Patchouli
I see you've noticed it as well. This doesn't contain any agar.
Koakuma
It doesn't?!
Meiling
That's news to me! Is this really not agar?!
Patchouli
It melts too easily, and there's no bite to it. It's also packed with nutrients not found in agar.
Patchouli
This must've been made using an agar substitute―gelatin derived from animals.
Miko
So it's fake.
Aunn
M-Miss Reimu...?
Reimu
Y-You already ate it, so your offerings are mine! I won't give them back without a fight!
Reimu
F-Fine! I'll give your offerings back!
Miko
Tch. This only happened because you tried to trick us.
Reimu
*sigh* I could've made so much money─
Patchouli
Listen up, Reimu.
Reimu
Wh-What do you want now?
Patchouli
Although you used gelatin instead of agar, you did go through the trouble of soaking fruits in honey.
Patchouli
You basically made fruit milk pudding. Only the agar part was a lie.
Chimata
Oh, so if she'd been honest from the start, she might've still made some money.
Miko
I can't forgive what she did, but thanks to her, we did all get to eat some delectable milk pudding.
Megumu
Yep, and it was free too.
Starving Taste Testers
More, please!
Reimu
Argh... Why didn't I just say it was pudding?! I would've been rich by now!
Tsukasa
You gotta hand it to Miss Reimu. This stuff sure is delicious.
After the Feast
Tsukasa
Now it's time to announce the winner! And the title goes to─
Tsukasa
Miss Tewi Inaba!
Tewi
Me?!
Miko
Your idea to use wasabi in a sweet dish was inspired! We all loved your cream puffs!
Miko
And by making a ton of them, you not only used up a lot of milk, but you also made the participants happy!
Miko
This title is rightfully yours. Thank you, Rabbit of Eientei!
Tewi
Th-Thank you...
Yuyuko
All of the dishes were so good. I ended up eating way too much!
Shion
I'm stuffed! By the way, can we take some of this with us?!
Momoyo
Feasting together with everyone is kinda fun once in a while!
Tewi
I should've used more wasabi...
Tewi
Next time, I'll add more and get Reisen to try them!
Seiran
That Tewi is never gonna change.
Ringo
I just had an idea! What if I sold wasabi dango?! I gotta go make some, quick!
Seiran
Ringo, wait! That's no fair! I'm gonna make them first!
Seiran & Ringo
AHHH!
???
Whoa, are you guys OK?
Ringo
Ow-ow-ow... We were in a hurry so we weren't looking where we were going.
Seiran
We're fine. Sorry for bumping into you.
???
That's good. Now be careful on your way back.
Seiran & Ringo
We will!
???
Is the tasting party over already?
Megumu
Why, if it isn't Komakusa-dayuu!
Sannyo
The Great Tengu, the god of the markets, the two pillars of Moriya, and the devil sisters... Literally, everyone is here.
Reimu
Are you here for the tasting? We have some left over if you wanna try.
Sannyo
Wow, I'm in luck! I came to find ideas for gambling snacks.
Megumu
Then you better hurry before Momoyo gobbles everything up.
Sannyo
Good idea. I see her appetite's as big as ever!
Tsukasa
Phew... Almost everyone's left. I better start cleaning this place up.
Hey, Tsukasa, can you come here for a sec?
We need to talk to you about something...
Tsukasa
What is it?
Tsukasa
I swear I didn't have any ulterior motives! I was just trying to make up for what I did─
Miko
Here's your share of the sweets. The tasting party was a huge success, so this is our way of saying thank you.
Tsukasa
But I don't deserve all this...
Megumu
Sure you do. Look at it this way. If you do bad things, bad things will happen to you. Like getting scolded by Saki.
Megumu
But if you do good things... You get the picture.
Tsukasa
I-I guess...
Megumu
Sometimes doing things for selfless reasons can end up benefiting you the most.
Megumu
You worked hard to organize the tasting party for us, and now you're being rewarded.
Tsukasa
I-I see... Well, I guess I'll dig in then!
Yachie
What's wrong? It's not like you to be so quiet.
Saki
And it's not like you to poke your nose into someone else's business.
Yachie
Don't you think you let the kuda-gitsune off the hook a bit too easily?
Saki
You think? I forgave her. And anyway, I'm pretty sure she got the message.
Yachie
You say that, but she'll be back to her tricks in no time. You're just asking for trouble.
Saki
I guess... But I'll take care of it when the time comes! Everyone's capable of change.
Saki
A prince can become immortal, their horse can become the leader of a clan in Hell... All things change.
Yachie
Whoa, you really are in an odd mood...
Saki
Hey, Kicchou... Do you mind chatting with me for a while?
Yachie
I don't have time to listen to you ramble on.
Saki
OK, then I'll just speak to myself out loud.
Yachie
...
Saki
With everything that happened, I realized how strong everyone is. And I don't mean just physically.
Saki
Even the god of markets, who helped the kuda-gitsune...
Saki
She led the market astray, but she kept it from collapsing. It wasn't her power as a god that let her do that...
Saki
...it was some other kind of strength, but I can't quite put my finger on what.
Yachie
...The strength of kindness.
Saki
Hm? Did you say something?
Yachie
No, nothing. And anyway, shouldn't you be talking to HER about these things?
Saki
You're right! But with her being like she is, I'd probably just end up getting mad at her...
Saki
I should still try to talk to her though... That's what Lady Taishi would do.
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