Lossy's Journal

Yukari

Greetings, PLAYER. Seems like the cold weather's here to stay, doesn't it?

Yukari

Winter often gets labeled as the season of endings, and it's true, winter sees the end of the year...

Yukari

But it also sees the start of a whole new one.

Yep. I can't wait to celebrate New Year's!

Yukari

Hehe, you're so adorable.

Yukari

New Year's gives you the opportunity to show gratitude for the year gone by and to pray for the one to come.

Yukari

That's what makes it so special.

So, is the interworld festival gonna be about...?

Yukari

Uh-huh. You're going to a world that celebrates New Year's every day!

Yippee!

I'm gonna eat SO MUCH MOCHI!

Yukari

Hehehe, there'll be plenty of mochi and other delicious foods for you to try.

Yukari

But New Year's isn't the only fun-filled event during winter, is it?

Nope, there's Christmas, too!

Yukari

Indeed there is!

Yukari

So, do you prefer Christmas or New Year's?

New Year's!

Christmas!

Choice Selected: "New Year's!"

Yukari

New Year's is a wonderful time to connect with family or even enjoy some quiet time alone.

Yukari

Plus, children receive money on New Year's. Could that be what you're really after, PLAYER?

Continue onto main branch.

Choice Selected: "Christmas!"

Yukari

Nothing's quite as magical as Christmas, is it? The excitement when you go to bed on Christmas Eve is wholly unique.

Yukari

Lavish meals, presents piled high, and everyone smiling from ear to ear. Just thinking about it makes my heart flutter.

Main Branch

Yukari

I have no doubt you're going to love this interworld festival.

What's the other world like?

Yukari

I think it's best if you find out for yourself.

Hmmm... OK!

Yukari

Have a wonderful time. And take care of yourself out there.

I will! Bye, Miss Yukari!

Yukari

Take care of the others, too.

In the L2.9 Universe, where New Year's is celebrated at every opportunity...

Reimu

Great idea! With this, Hakurei Shrine's troubles are over!

???

Hahaha, I knew you'd agree!

Sounds like a visitor.

And for some reason, Reimu sounds super happy!

Hey, guys! Whatcha talking about?

Zanmu

How delightful!

Zanmu

You truly are a fascinating human. Let us breathe new life into the New Year's celebrations together!

Hisami

With Lady Zanmu's help, all the parties up here will be spectacular.

Hisami

But she's a busy person. If you need anything, come to me first.

Zanmu

Let's show the people of this New Year's world the joys of another festival... Christmas!

Huh?! You're talking about Christmas?

Reimu

Oh, have you been listening? Yep, Zanmu here wants to introduce Gensokyo to Christmas... whatever that is!

Reimu

I'm sure it's just another one of her schemes, but if it brings people to Hakurei Shrine, I couldn't care less!

Zanmu

Hold your horses, Reimu. The party at Hakurei Shrine is still a ways off.

Reimu

It is? What gives?

Zanmu

You can't start a new tradition by holding a massive party out of the blue. People won't understand what's going on.

Reimu

Hmm, I guess you're right...

Zanmu

That's why our first order of business is to lay the right groundwork.

Hisami

With Lady Zanmu's deft touch, there's no cultural change she can't manifest.

Hisami

C'mon, Miss Reimu, what do you say?

Reimu

...I'll think about it!

You're not good with this kinda thing, huh, Reimu?

Sounds like you're trying to get out of it!

Reimu

That's not true!

Zanmu

Surely you're not just in this for the party at Hakurei Shrine, right, Reimu?

Zanmu

Now, back to Christmas...

Zanmu

Apparently, on Christmas Eve, a bearded character dressed in Hell of Blood Pools red roams all over Gensokyo.

Hisami

A large number of sacrifices are required, too, right?

Zanmu

Hm, if the dead are to be trusted, then yes.

Are we still talking about Christmas...?

Yukari

Oh, Reimu, you haven't got your outfit on yet. Aren't you going to the New Year's celebrations today?

Reimu

Y-Yukari! You're early today!

Yukari

Hehe, I don't always sleep in late. And Ran helped me get dressed.

Reimu

Sorry, guys. I gotta head out, so I'll leave everything to you, OK?!

Zanmu

She really only is interested in what our plan can do for her, huh?

Hisami

Shall I chase after her?

Zanmu

No, it's fine. We can handle this ourselves.

U-Umm, if you want...

I'll help!

Zanmu

How kind of you to offer. We'll gladly accept your help.

Zanmu

Now, how should we spread the word about Christmas? We've only heard rumors ourselves.

Zanmu

PLAYER, you look like you know a lot about it.

Yep! Christmas is―

Zanmu

Wait, I'm not looking for an explanation.

Zanmu

If we listen to you, we may well create an accurate Christmas here in Gensokyo...

Zanmu

But it would only be accurate from your point of view.

Zanmu

I'd prefer to hold Christmas celebrations that everyone here can get on board with.

Zanmu

So if you would be so kind, could you tell us one and only one thing you like to do at Christmas?

I like to eat fried chicken!

Zanmu

Fried chicken, heh?

Hisami

*licks lips*

Zanmu

I must say, that's a wonderful idea.

Zanmu

Proposal accepted!

Hisami

Let's make this the best Christmas ever, Lady Zanmu!

Zanmu

First, we must ensure everyone understands what Christmas is all about.

Zanmu

Red outfits and heapings of fried chicken should make for a good start.

Zanmu

And so...

Zanmu

I'll act as our leader as we spread Christmas across Gensokyo!

Hisami

A red outfit and an alluring miniskirt. Luscious black hair and adorable decorations on her horns... Simply perfect.

Hisami

I'm with you, Lady Zanmu!

Both of your outfits are amazing!

Um... could one of you help zip me up?

Hisami

Sure, I've got you.

Hisami

Now, turn back around... You look so adorable, Lady PLAYER!

Zanmu

Truly...

Hisami & Zanmu

You're an adorable deer!

Actually, I'm a reindeer!

Zanmu

You can't have Christmas without reindeer. Give it your all out there, PLAYER.

I'll make sure everyone feels the Christmas cheer!

Here, let me carry some of your sweets, Miss Zanmu!

Hisami

How thoughtful of you.

Zanmu

OK, it's time to find some chicken.

Hisami

Understood, Lady Zanmu. Allow me to guide you.

(How's she going to guide us to chicken...?)

Kutaka

Hello, Lady Zanmu, Miss Hisami. It's rare to see you up here.

Hisami

Here's the chicken.

Zanmu

Good work.

Kutaka

Um, what did you just call me?!

Hisami

I'm sorry, allow me to explain.

Hisami

We're working to enact a wonderful plan of Lady Zanmu's, and we need your help.

Kutaka

I dunno. Sounds pretty sus to me. Besides, I might not look it, but I'm actually super busy.

Hisami

C'mon, at least hear us out.

Zanmu

Don't you want to raise chickens' status and have the humans and youkai show you their undying gratitude?

Kutaka

Tell me everything.

Kutaka

So you wanna serve fried chicken for Christmas, huh?!

Hisami

Can we count on your support, Lady Kutaka?

Kutaka

You bet! I'll do whatever it takes to raise the chickens' status around here!

Kutaka

I know I can trust Lady Zanmu!

Kutaka

...And just like that, we're here.

Zanmu

Why did you bring us to this place?

Kutaka

Because Kourindou's just opened a new market section where anyone can set up their own stall!

Kutaka

It's called Rin-Rin Mart!

Kutaka

I was already planning to set up a stall of my own. I figure we can use it to give out fried chicken!

Zanmu

How fortunate. We'll gladly take you up on your offer.

There are already a few stalls open!

It's like an awesome flea market...

Byakuren

Hello there. Are you here to do some shopping at Rin-Rin Mart, too?

Kutaka

No, I actually run one of the stalls here! Have you bought anything yet?

Alice

We came to buy one of these. They're all the rage lately.

Alice

Would you like me to buy you one, too?

Kutaka

I sure would! Thanks!

Zanmu

This market's rather lively, isn't it? It's the perfect place for us to distribute fried chicken.

Kutaka

Let's get started right away, then―

Kutaka

Oops, I forgot my uniform! I'll be right back!

Kutaka

I'm baaaack! It's me, Rin-Rin Mart Kutaka!

Wow, you look so Christmassy!

What are you riding on?

Kutaka

Oh, this is Piyo!

Kutaka

Uh-huh, uh-huh... Piyo says she's gonna try her best with me!

She's so big and fluffy... I wanna ride, too.

...But I can't. I have to focus on being a reindeer.

Kutaka

Well, what are we waiting for? Let's make some fried chicken.

Miyoi

...What's this about fried chicken?

Wow, you sound so serious, Miyoi...

What are you doing here?

Miyoi

Quit your jabbering and take me to the kitchen already!

Miyoi

I need to test your skills!

Kutaka

So I just have to season it and drop it in the oil? Is that all?

Miyoi

What do you mean is that all?!

Miyoi

On behalf of chefs everywhere, I'll show you what a cruel mistress fried food can be!

Miyoi

You're about to get burned!

Kutaka

*sob* I never knew making fried food was so tough!

Miyoi

Well, you do now. Just be sure to give your all.

Miyoi

I've got some shopping to do, then I'm heading back to Geidontei.

Zanmu

And just like that, she's gone.

Hisami

She sure is passionate about cooking, huh?

Kutaka

I wish there was an easier way to make fried food...

Zanmu

Maybe there's a useful gadget or two in Kourindou.

Hmm, I dunno...

Kutaka

Me, neither. But it's worth finding out!

Kutaka

Mister Rinnosuke!

Rinnosuke

Hello. What can I do for you?

Kutaka

Um, you don't have anything that could help us make fried chicken, do you?

Rinnosuke

Well, if you're making fried food, a deep fryer's a good place to start.

Kutaka

A deep fryer, huh?

Rinnosuke

All you do is press a button, and thanks to the built-in timer, everything comes out golden and crispy.

Kutaka

W-Wow, that's amazing. Do you have one we can borrow?!

Rinnosuke

Sure. I don't use it often myself.

Kutaka

This deep fryer's AMAZING!

Kutaka

This thing's gonna start a fried food revolution!

Kutaka

Mountains of fried chicken, coming up!

Kutaka

I better show all the phantoms how to make it, too!

Zanmu

While Kutaka's frying chicken, let's take a look at what kind of customers come through here.

Hisami

An excellent decision as always, Lady Zanmu.

Miko

You're... Zanmu Nippaku. Do you have a stall at Rin-Rin Mart?

Zanmu

I do. I plan on using it to spread the word about Christmas throughout Gensokyo. What about you?

Kokoro

We're actually here to set ours up. We just need to find a good spot.

Zanmu

How about that free section back there?

Kokoro

Thanks for the idea. Would you like a cheese-stuffed mask-of-hope cake?

Hisami

Yes, please. Let's share one, Lady Zanmu.

Zanmu

With cheese that stretchy, I doubt we'd get it in two. Just eat a whole one yourself.

Hisami

OK...

Kagerou

Um, excuse me. We're here to sell all the sweets we baked...

Sekibanki

But we need somewhere to set up a stall.

Zanmu

You brought homemade sweets, huh? The space in front of you is free.

Wakasagihime

Thanks!

Zanmu

By the way...

Zanmu

We're just frying up some chicken. When it's done, you're welcome to try a few pieces.

Grassroots Youkai Network

Yippee!

Zanmu

Youkai these days sure are sweet.

Hisami

Uh-huh, they're totally adorable.

Nemuno

This is Rin-Rin Mart, right?

Zanmu

Why, if it isn't the sanctuary yamanba. Are you here to set up a stall, too?

Nemuno

I sure am. I figure an extra spot to sell me cookin' couldn't hurt.

Nemuno

...Is that fried food I smell? You're really goin' all out, eh? I better step up me game.

Zanmu

Same old Nemuno, huh?

Zanmu

But why's everyone talking to me as if I run this place?

Hisami

You just give off that aura.

Zanmu

Perhaps. But I suppose the more people here, the easier it will be to make Gensokyo fall in love with our chicken.

Zanmu

Having a wide variety of stalls to attract customers should come in handy.

Youmu

Excuse me!

Zanmu

Hello, Yuyuko, Youmu. Here to set up a―?

Yuyuko

Fried chicken, please.

Zanmu

Come again?

Yuyuko

Fried chicken, please!

Zanmu

The chicken's not ready yet... We need more time.

Hisami

Well then, let's do this Hell-style.

Youmu

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. This chicken is a delightful taste of Christmas.

Yuyuko

Christmas isn't just about chicken, though, Youmu. It's also about cake!

Yuyuko

Isn't it, Zanmu?!

Zanmu

Umm...

Yuyuko

That's too bad. Nothing beats a slice of cake after fried chicken.

Youmu

I heard someone's selling some in the village. Shall we go and buy some, Lady Yuyuko?

I think she's right. Cake is a must!

Zanmu

Hmm, I suppose we could serve some...

Zanmu

Proposal accepted!

Zanmu

Yuyuko, don't go anywhere. We'll summon this village cake maker here.

Yuyuko

All right. Youmu and I will do some shopping while we wait.

Youmu

You're going to bring the cakes to us... Why didn't I think of that?

Zanmu

We'll spread Christmas across Gensokyo with chicken and cake.

Hisami

Wonderful idea, Lady Zanmu!

Zanmu

And they're both even more delicious when eaten with friends.

Hisami

You're right!

Hisami

At least, I think you are...

Misumaru

Cakes here! How about a delicious cake to celebrate New Year's?

Chimata

Cakes on sale now!

Kutaka

Is this the cake shop Miss Youmu was talking about?

Zanmu

Without a doubt.

Zanmu

Look at the market god...

Chimata

Hehe, you have a keen eye.

Chimata

The back of the line's right here.

Zanmu

I was actually talking about your outfit, but never mind.

Kutaka

What's she talking about, though? There is no line.

Chimata

*gulp*

Hisami

It can't hurt to be optimistic, though... probably.

Misumaru

Oh, welcome...

Misumaru

Wait, we have customers? Real customers?!

Misumaru

Keiki, come quick! We've got customers!

Kutaka

She sure seems happy to see us.

Hisami

There was no line outside, and I don't see a single customer in here.

I guess it's not very popular...

I don't get it, though. The cakes smell super yummy.

Keiki & Mayumi

Welcome!

Zanmu

Hm, your cakes look simply stunning, but I take it you're having trouble selling them?

Mayumi

*sigh* That's right.

Mayumi

Lady Keiki's cakes are flawless, but everyone's obsessed with New Year's...

Mayumi

And cake has no place in their New Year's feasts!

Zanmu

I suppose it's a little too sweet, huh?

Kutaka

Why did you open a cake shop in the first place?

Keiki

No reason. I'd just been enjoying cake-baking as a hobby.

Keiki

The main goal was just to have fun with Mayumi. Don't worry about buying anything. Take your time looking around.

Mayumi

L-Lady Keiki! I-I've never been this happy!

Keiki

Try and keep your composure in front of the customers, OK?

Zanmu

...Friendship is another vital ingredient of Christmas.

Hisami

It is?!

Zanmu

Yes. Why?

Hisami

No reason...

Zanmu

You there, shopkeeper. I've decided to help your cause.

Keiki

You have?

Zanmu

Do you know what Christmas is?

Keiki

Of course. Not many people in the village do, though.

Zanmu

I had a feeling you'd know a thing or two about the humans.

Zanmu

I want to spread the word about Christmas, but to do that, I need to use symbols and imagery.

Zanmu

First, I'll start a fried chicken craze. But that alone won't be enough.

Zanmu

Which is where your cakes come in.

Zanmu

Fried chicken and cake is a match made in Hell!

Zanmu

When my plan is complete, this shop will have the longest line in Gensokyo.

Keiki

R-Really?!

Mayumi

You're our savior!

Zanmu

I get that a lot.

Zanmu

For now, you should head to Rin-Rin Mart. Sell as many Christmas cakes as you can there.

Keiki

Thank you so much!

Keiki

Let's not waste any time. Mayumi, start packing everything we'll need!

Mayumi

You got it! I'll go let everyone out front know!

Zanmu

Red outfits, fried chicken, and cake. It's starting to feel like Christmas already.

Zanmu

Now I just need some followers to help me spread the word.

Zanmu

Luckily, I know just who to ask. Follow me.

Hisami

(Time spent with others... Friendship...)

Hisami

(But that's...)

Zanmu

What's the hold-up, Hisami? You're about to get left behind.

Hisami

Sorry, I'm coming now.

Seems like something's bothering Miss Hisami.

I wonder what's on her mind...

Suwako

I heard what you've been doing.

Suwako

You're trying to spread the joy of Christmas across Gensokyo. Your determination is admirable and your methods are unique.

Suwako

As gods, we can't wait to see what change you'll usher in.

Kanako

But you're underprepared.

Kutaka

We are?

Kanako

What good is Christmas without a Christmas tree?

The way you're holding that one is pretty scary!

But you sound pretty excited, Miss Kanako!

Zanmu

So, people decorate trees at Christmas, too?

Sanae

That's right! They hang red baubles from the branches and place a bright yellow star on top!

Zanmu

I thought we had enough symbols of Christmas, but it'll be nice to have something that'll last beyond the festivities.

Zanmu

Proposal accepted!

Another one!

This Christmas celebration is going to be amazing!

Hisami

I see you're starting to realize just how incredible Lady Zanmu is, PLAYER.

Zanmu

May we have one of those miraculous trees?

Kanako

Of course. But you have to agree to make Moriya Shrine...

Kanako

The official sponsor of Christmas.

Zanmu

...What does that even mean?

Kanako

It means we'll take charge of the celebrations. Don't worry, we'll make sure they're a success.

Zanmu

Absolutely not. Christmas is mine.

Kanako

And on the surface, that's how it will appear. We'd prefer to pull the strings from behind the curtain.

Zanmu

So that's how desperate you are for faith, huh?

Zanmu

All I need from you is help spreading the word of Christmas.

Suwako

And yet, you plan to offer nothing in return.

Kanako

If you expected us to go along with this, you were wrong.

Kanako

We refuse to be your pawns. Let's settle this with a battle of bullets!

Zanmu

I'm the hero of this winter tale. The strings are mine to pull!

Sanae

Eeeeek! We lost!

Kanako

...Fine.

Suwako

Just this once, we'll let you take the lead.

Thanks, guys!

Kanako

There's no need to thank us. We just established a promising new business relationship.

Zanmu

As for the Christmas tree, would you mind taking it to Hakurei Shrine?

Kanako

Sure. We'll procure the finest tree so as not to bring shame to the Moriya name.

Zanmu

I look forward to seeing it. I'm afraid we must get going, though. There's lots yet to do.

Suwako

You're leaving already?

Zanmu

Gensokyo is a big place, and the joy of Christmas isn't going to spread itself.

Sanae

Are you planning to spread it to the Scarlet Devil Mansion at some point?

Zanmu

Why do you ask?

Sanae

They brought some fabulous food for the last New Year's party we threw.

Sanae

So I put together a box of leftovers for them.

Sanae

It'd be great if you could take them over to the mansion!

Hisami

Lady Zanmu's no errand girl!

Zanmu

No, but I came here to ask for their help. This is the least I can do.

Zanmu

Besides, this gives us a good excuse to go and tell everyone there about Christmas.

Zanmu

Kutaka, grab the boxes.

Kutaka

Consider them grabbed!

Sanae

New Year's is all about coming together to help one another.

Sanae

So it's important to show gratitude like this.

Zanmu

What that shrine maiden said really stuck with me.

Zanmu

You can't throw a party... or spread the joy of Christmas without connections to others.

Hisami

Friendship... Connections...

Hisami

Something's been bugging me this whole time.

Zanmu

And they're both even more delicious when eaten with friends.

Zanmu

...Friendship is another vital ingredient of Christmas.

Hisami

It's wrong.

Hisami

All wrong.

Hisami

Wrong.

Hisami

Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong.

Hisami

This isn't like Lady Zanmu at all...

Hisami

I need to set things right.

Kutaka

...Hm? Where's Miss Hisami?

She was here a moment ago...

Zanmu

Knowing her, she's probably off chasing some wild idea.

Zanmu

Let's hurry to the Scarlet Devil Mansion.

Aren't we going to look for her?

Zanmu

She's the one who disappeared. Which means she likely doesn't want to be found.

Zanmu

Don't worry. She'll show up again. This isn't anything out of the ordinary for her.

Kutaka

Wait for me, Lady Zanmu!

Kutaka

Excuse us...

Yuuma

Ugh.

Zanmu

That's not a very nice way to greet us, Yuuma. As the leader of the Gouyoku Alliance, you ought to know better.

Yuuma

I meant nothing by it. I was just surprised to run into you here is all.

Yuuma

What's with that outfit?

Zanmu

Quite a fine color, isn't it? It's Hell of Blood Pools red.

Yuuma

I wasn't talking about the color...

Zanmu

Hehehe, you don't understand, do you?

Zanmu

You should leave the Former Hell of Blood Pools once in a while and try to keep up with the goings on of the world.

Yuuma

How am I s'posed to do that?

Zanmu

Why don't you start... by eating some fried chicken?

Kutaka

You can have as much as you like!

Yuuma

I'll take some if you're offering... but what're you up to?

Zanmu

We're spreading the word about Christmas. There'll be a party at Hakurei Shrine soon. Come along.

Yuuma

A party, huh?

Yuuma

Hehehe. If I'm free, I'll be there.

Yuuma

Later, gatekeeper.

Meiling

B-Bye... I didn't even know you were here.

Meiling

I wonder why she keeps visiting the mansion.

Kutaka

Helloooo!

Remilia

How did you three get in here?!

Zanmu

Through the front gate.

Flandre

Wow, we've had so many visitors today!

Flandre

Remilia, these guys are intruders. Let's destroy 'em!

Kutaka

W-Wait! We're not―

Flandre

I don't wanna hear your excuses!

Kutaka

Are you sure? They're really good!

Zanmu

She's certainly passionate about destroying things.

The stray bullets are destroying things in the mansion!

Zanmu

I think that's enough fun.

Zanmu

What about the poor souls who have to clean all this mess up?

Flandre

...What about 'em?

Sakuya

Don't worry. I put everything back to normal.

Wayyda go!

Kutaka

Your ability sure is awesome.

Remilia

Forget about the cleaning, Sakuya. Get these intruders out of here.

Sakuya

Lady Remilia, Lady Flandre, wait. Meiling told me these three were sent here by Moriya Shrine.

Remilia

They were?

Kutaka

That's what I was trying to tell you! We brought you something.

Kutaka

(That gatekeeper ACTUALLY came through for us.)

Sakuya

But I don't see why you'd come all this way just to make a delivery.

Sakuya

Why are you really here?

Kutaka

Well, the thing is...

Kutaka

...And that's pretty much the jist of it.

Sakuya

The more parties in Gensokyo, the better, I say. Don't you agree, Mistress?

Remilia

Blood-red outfits, fried chicken, cake, and a Christmas tree. What's not to like?!

Flandre

Is that all there is? Booooring.

Zanmu

Well, what else would you like?

Flandre

Duh. Presents!

Flandre

Kids who've been good all year get presents at Christmas. Everyone knows that.

Flandre

Presents like this!

Kutaka

Those things are super popular lately!

Flandre

Mine's pretty cool, right?

Flandre

I got it from Okina.

Kutaka

I want presents, too!

Zanmu

It is a rather interesting idea.

Zanmu

Proposal accepted!

Zanmu

We'll give presents to those we hold dear. That way, all our connections will grow stronger.

W-Wow! I wasn't sure about the plan at first...

But this is turning into a proper Christmas!

Zanmu

Hehehe. Glad to hear you say that.

Zanmu

I was just thinking the same thing.

Zanmu

We've been to the village, Moriya Shrine, and now the Scarlet Devil Mansion. I think that should do.

Zanmu

What do you say we head back to Rin-Rin Mart and see how things are shaping up?

Kutaka

I can't wait to see how lively it is there.

Kutaka

I hope all the fried chicken helps people discover a new-found appreciation for chickens!

Kutaka

We're back!

Wow, there are so many customers!

Business at Rin-Rin Mart is booming!

Zanmu

Indeed. Everything's going as planned.

Kutaka

I'll go get the fried chicken ready!

Zanmu

...Now then, I think I'll take a look at some of the stalls.

Zanmu

Feel free to explore, PLAYER.

Yay! I wonder what I'll find!

Kutaka

Chicken, chicken, chicken! Come get your delicious chicken!

Kutaka

I've just fried up a fresh batch! Care for a taste?

Ran

Three portions, please!

Chen

Big ones, please!

Kutaka

Coming right up!

Kutaka

Right, I better make some more―

Kutaka

Huh?

Kutaka

I-I don't get it.

Zanmu

There are more than just food stalls here now. There are so many decorations for sale.

Zanmu

Excuse me, shopkeeper. Can I buy this?

Kappa Stall Owner

You have a keen eye! That's one of our finest pieces!

Zanmu

Hehe...

Zanmu

What's all that noise?

Zanmu

The more people, the more trouble. Some things never change.

Zanmu

I suppose I should go and take a look...

Kutaka

B'kaaaaw!

Kutaka

C-Calm down, everyone!

The customers are getting super rowdy!

B-But why?!

Zanmu

What's going on, Kutaka?

Kutaka

Lady Zanmu!

Kutaka

Can you give us a hand? Everyone's going crazy for our chicken!

Chicken-Loving Phantom

Chicken! Gimme Christmas chicken!

Fried Food-Loving Fairy

Something fried! I gotta get me something fried!

Christmas-Loving Youkai

I'm SO tired of New Year's feasts!

Zanmu

They really have gone crazy.

W-We gotta help Kutaka, quick!

She's gonna get squished!

Zanmu

Hmm, very well...

Zanmu

Listen up, everyone!

Zanmu

If you want fried chicken, you'll have to prove yourself worthy in a battle of bullets with Kutaka!

Zanmu

Only the victorious have a right to line up here!

Kutaka

Wait, what?!

Kutaka

Wh-Why did you make them all battle us?!

Zanmu

If the rules are followed, battles pose no real danger. It seemed more logical than trying to talk sense into them.

Zanmu

And I only promised the winners chicken.

Zanmu

So the losers have nothing to complain about. Which buys you enough time to make another batch or two.

Kutaka

Y-You're right!

So you believed in Kutaka from the start!

Kutaka

I'm just glad everything's back under control.

So, how did it get like that in the first place?

Kutaka

W-Well, uhh...

Zanmu

Come on, spit it out.

Kutaka

...We're out of chicken.

Zanmu

How can the god of chickens run out of chicken?

Kutaka

Beats me! I'm just as confused as you!

Kutaka

There should still be plenty of chickens around, but none have been delivered here.

Are they being raised somewhere else?

Kutaka

Uh-huh. Beyond the Road of Liminality and Higan, by the entrance to Hell, there's a place called...

Kutaka

The Oniwatari Checkpoint.

Kutaka

The chickens are raised with great care on my free-range poultry farm.

Kutaka

I wonder why the deliveries stopped...

Zanmu

If we trace the delivery route from here, we should find the culprit.

You think there's a culprit? Why would anyone do this?

Zanmu

I'm not sure. But given where this is all taking place...

Zanmu

I'd say the one who guides people to Hell could be responsible.

Miss Hisami went missing, and there's trouble in Hell...

Do you really think she's got something to do with this?

Zanmu

Seems like a safe bet to me.

Kutaka

Why would she suddenly decide to do something like this? Did she secretly hate Christmas all along?

It looked like she was having fun to me...

Zanmu

And to me.

Zanmu

Well, following me is her favorite activity.

She's always smiling when she's with you!

You two always seem like the best of friends!

Zanmu

Friends, huh? So that's what you think we are.

Zanmu

I suppose we've known each other a long time.

Kutaka

I'd love to hear some of your old stories, Lady Zanmu!

Zanmu

You're awfully chirpy. Have you forgotten we have a poultry farm to check in on?

Kutaka

Oh, right!

Kutaka

I'm sure right now Rin-Rin Mart is echoing with cries for chicken!

Kutaka

What are we doing standing around? We gotta get to my farm, quick!

Zanmu

We're right behind you.

Guess Lady Zanmu didn't feel like opening up to us.

...Wow, they're fast! W-Wait up, guys!

So many gates!

This must be the Oniwatari Checkpoint... *gulp*

Kutaka

I-I don't understand!

What is it, Kutaka?!

There's no one here...

Kutaka

That's the point! All my chickens have disappeared!

Zanmu

It would've been impossible to move that many chickens without leaving some kind of evidence.

Zanmu

Does anything look suspicious around here?

Hmmm...

Look, there's something on the ground!

Kutaka

They're breadcrumbs... No, they're cakecrumbs. And there's more over there!

It's like a whole trail of cakecrumbs!

Kutaka

Y-You don't think the chickens were lured away, do you?!

Zanmu

It certainly seems that way.

Kutaka

H-How low can you get?!

Kutaka

This is unforgivable! Using the poor chicken's desire to grow big and strong against them like that!

Kutaka

We gotta follow this trail!

Hisami

You chickens are always welcome in Hell.

Hisami

That's it, this way. Forget cakecrumbs, there's an even better treat waiting for you all in Hell.

Hisami

This is OK. This is OK.

Hisami

No, it's better than OK.

Hisami

This is genius.

Hisami

Why is someone like Lady Zanmu talking about friends, connections, and making meals more delicious?

Hisami

Ugh! And why does she want to spend time with people like them?!

Hisami

It's not right!

Hisami

*pant* *pant*

Hisami

Lady Zanmu should always stand proud and independent―at least in front of others.

Hisami

So why did she let all those things slip out?

Hisami

Has she gotten careless?

Hisami

Either way, I can't let the world see this side of her!

Hisami

Then again... perhaps this plan is just a cover for another, more secretive plan.

Hisami

If that's the case, then I have a good scolding to look forward to.

Hisami

Better get back to it...

Hisami

C'mon, chickens. Descend into Hell!

Kutaka

What are you doing?!

Hisami

Oh, you got here quicker than I expected...

Kutaka

Y-Y-Y-You!

Kutaka

This is unforgivable!

I-I've never seen you this angry...!

Kutaka

Well, why shouldn't I be angry?! She said she wanted to help raise the status of chickens!

Kutaka

All the customers at Rin-Rin Mart must think I've abandoned them.

Kutaka

Because of HER, chickens are getting a bad name. And now we find her guiding innocent chickens to Hell...

Kutaka

This is clear poultry abuse, and I won't stand for it!

Kutaka

Had enough yet?!

Hisami

Ow, ow, ow... You got me good.

Kutaka

You lose, Hisami Yomotsu!

Hisami

Yeah, I know.

Hisami

But who cares?

Kutaka

Huh?

Hisami

This was my true target all along.

What was?

Hisami

Lady Zanmuuu!

Hisami

I'm so sorry for what I did!

Zanmu

Is it over? In that case, return these chickens to their farm.

Hisami

B-But, Lady Zanmu...

Hisami

Aren't you going to scold me?

Zanmu

Kutaka, gather up all the chickens. Chop-chop.

Kutaka

O-Oh, uhh... OK.

Hisami

Lady... Zanmu...

Hisami

I'm so sorry.

Hisami

I... I was jealous.

Hisami

You left New Hell without telling me why...

Hisami

Then went straight to Hakurei Shrine to talk to Reimu about a Christmas party.

Hisami

It didn't make any sense.

Hisami

I'm the one who's always by your side.

Hisami

That's right. Me! Yet you went to her instead...

Hisami

And started talking about friendship!

Hisami

But what about me?

Hisami

Aren't we friends?!

Zanmu

Well, all you do is follow me around, so...

Hisami

Exactly!

Zanmu

Tch...

Zanmu

I would never dream of a Christmas―

Zanmu

―without you.

Hisami

...Huh?

Zanmu

People give each other gifts at Christmas, right?

Zanmu

This is me doing my part.

Zanmu

Now come on, let's get back to Hakurei Shrine and get everything ready.

Zanmu

...Well, don't just stand there, Hisami. Go, go, go.

Hisami

Let's...

Hisami

Let's make this the best Christmas ever!

Hisami

Merry Christmaaaas!

Kutaka

Yay, Christmas!

Fried chicken, cake, a tree, and lots of presents!

What a great Christmas!

Zanmu

We couldn't have done it without your help. Thank you, PLAYER. *pats head festively*

Zanmu

Relax and enjoy yourselves. I'll go around and greet everyone.

Yachie

Lady Zanmu, thank you for inviting me to this party of yours.

Zanmu

Think nothing of it. Please, enjoy yourself.

Biten

Lady Zanmu, I brought you a slice of cake!

Zanmu

How thoughtful of you.

Yachie

Would you mind getting me a slice, too?

Biten

Coming right up!

Aunn

Biten! You came!

Biten

Aunn! You look adorable in your winter outfit!

Aunn

Hehe, I love compliments!

Saki

Chicken is muscle food! Eat up, Enoko!

Enoko

Yay! *festive chomping*

Saki

Thanks for the feast, Lady Zanmu!

Zanmu

You're welcome. Eat as much as you need to fuel your beloved muscles.

Yuuma

To think we'd all gather here for a party again.

Yuuma

What's the deal? It's not like you to arrange and organize something so openly like this.

Zanmu

Don't seem so surprised. I was just in the mood for a party.

Chiyari

So long as there's delicious food to eat, it's all good with me. Thanks a bunch.

Zanmu

Thank you for decorating the Christmas tree.

Kanako

The Aki sisters did most of the work. They're the ones you should be thanking.

Shizuha

Don't mention it! I had a ton of fun!

Minoriko

And I'm just glad to see my big sis' so happy in winter.

Suwako

B-B-By the way, is there anywhere around here we can warm ourselves up? I'm f-f-f-freezing...

Sanae

Hakurei Shrine sure skimps out on the important stuff, huh? How about we play wrestle for warmth?

Suwako

Great idea!

Hisami

Lady Zanmu?

Zanmu

Not a chance.

Hisami

Right, of course not!

Zanmu

But Suwako's right. It is rather cold.

Zanmu

Clownpiece, heat up the floor a little more.

Clownpiece

You got it, boss!

Yoshika

This freshly fried chicken is sooooo yummy.

Seiga

Agreed. I'd go so far as to say it's sinfully good.

Hisami

Oh, Lady Seiga. Welcome to the party.

Seiga

I didn't expect to see you at a place like this.

Yoshika

This cake is suuuuuper yummy, too.

Hisami

So, when are you thinking of descending into Hell?

Seiga

Not for a while, at least.

Hisami

Oh. Well, if you change your mind, just let me know.

Zanmu

Hehe, seems like everyone's enjoying the party.

Reimu

C'mon, it's time to fess up.

Zanmu

Hi, Reimu. Are you having fun?

Reimu

Don't play dumb with me. What are you REALLY up to with this party?

Zanmu

I'm not up to anything at all.

Reimu

I don't buy it.

Zanmu

That's colder than a winter gale. I'm simply acting in Gensokyo's best interest.

Zanmu

After all the New Year's celebrations you may have forgotten, but Christmas and New Year's are intrinsically linked.

Zanmu

It's the last celebration of the year before we turn the page and begin a new one.

Zanmu

All I wanted was to remind everyone of its importance.

Reimu

So... you really did all this to help Gensokyo?

Zanmu

That's what I've been saying.

Zanmu

People have a bad habit of rejecting what they don't understand.

Zanmu

Revolution doesn't necessarily require the destruction of what currently exists.

Zanmu

If all you care about is protecting the status quo, you'll get left behind, Reimu.

Reimu

Hmm, I feel like you're trying to trick me... but I can't work out how.

Reimu

Ah, well. I suppose for now, it's enough that everyone's having fun.

Biten

Lady Zanmuuu!

Enoko

After Christmas is done, are we going to celebrate New Year's?

Chiyari

When are we gonna start? How about now?

Zanmu

...You heard me say Christmas and New Year's, didn't you?

Zanmu

All right, fine. We can celebrate New Year's here in three days' time.

Hisami

But we're celebrating New Year's in Hell that day.

Zanmu

Oh. Well, how about in six days' time?

Hisami

Lady Zanmu, you already have plans that day...

Zanmu

Right. How could I forget?

Enoko

You're pretty busy, huh? I don't know how Hisami keeps track of everything.

Chiyari

Surely you can play hooky for a few days. C'mon, Hell girl, see if you can shift around her schedule.

Biten

If you bunch a few things together, surely you can find a free day.

Hisami

No can do.

Hisami

Lady Zanmu's fully booked.

In the L^9 Universe...

Marisa

Everything looks normal here. What about there?

Reimu

...Hm, nothing out of the ordinary. Looks like we made it to a stable world.

Marisa

This is the Human Village, right? It's pretty lively.

Reimu

And those food stalls smell incredible. Everything seems so peaceful here.

Marisa

Yeah, but we haven't got time for a drink and a snack.

Reimu

You're right. We have no idea who the next person to mess everything up will be.

Reimu

Let's get started on our mission.

Marisa

This is Marisa and Reimu. We're gonna start investigating this parallel world.

Kosuzu

*heave* *heave*

Miyoi

There's a lot of ingredients. Are you sure you can carry them all?

Kosuzu

Y-Yep! I ate my fill at last night's party. This is the least I can do!

Kosuzu

Besides, this mountain of ingredients is nothing compared to a mountain of dictionaries!

Miyoi

If you say so! Thanks so much!

Kogasa

Su... Su... Surprise!

Joon

What are you doing jumping around?

Kogasa

Aww... I faked it a couple of times, and I STILL couldn't surprise you.

Shion

Forget about her, Joon. We've gotta get ready for the next New Year's Eve party.

Joon

Right. Debts get wiped at the start of every new year, so we gotta borrow everything we can now!

Reimu

...Everyone seems even more relaxed than usual. It really must be peaceful here.

Marisa

We arrived in the middle of all the New Year's Eve parties, huh? I hope there's no trouble to start the New Year.

Reimu?! And is that... Marisa?!

Reimu

PLAYER?!

I thought you'd be at the party at Hakugyokurou.

Reimu

There's a party at Hakugyokurou?

Marisa

She thinks you're this world's Reimu. Just play along.

Reimu

Gotcha... Sorry, PLAYER, there's just something I gotta take care of.

*suspicious squinting*

*suspicious squinting intensifies*

There's something different about you two...

Marisa

There's no fooling you, heh?

Reimu

Don't worry, we'll come clean.

Reimu

I'm Reimu Hakurei, but not the one you know. I come from a parallel world.

Marisa

And I'm Marisa Kirisame from another parallel world. I'm probably a little different from your Marisa.

Marisa

I wouldn't blame you for not believing us, though―

So there are two Reimus and two Marisas!

Let's all have a party together at Hakurei Shrine!

Reimu

...Huh?

Reimu

She believed us pretty quick, huh?

Marisa

In a world this peaceful, why not believe us?

Kaguya

You're the Reimu and Marisa from parallel worlds, right? How'd you get here?!

Marisa

Sorry, Kaguya. It's kind of a long story.

Kaguya

For real? I snuck out of Eientei to come to this party, you know? ...Oh no.

Eirin

Kaguya. I thought I told you no more sneaking out.

Kaguya

What are you doing here?!

Kaguya

You told on me, didn't you, Keine?!

Keine

Only because I didn't want Eirin to worry...

Kaguya

Whatever. Do you wanna listen to parallel-world Reimu and Marisa's story with me?

Eirin

OK. But when it's over, we're going home.

Reimu

I can barely remember the last time I saw everyone getting along so well...

Suika

Goooood evening! Everyone having fun?

Suika

Make sure you do. After all, that's what New Year's Eve parties are for.

Marisa

We're enjoying the food, thanks.

Suika

Haha, good to hear! Eat your fill, then let the singing and dancing begin!

Suika

But don't worry, this is far from the last New Year's Eve party!

Reimu

Seriously? How many more of them are there?

Reimu

This is Reimu. There are New Year's Eve parties being held in the village and at Hakurei Shrine. No abnormalities to report.

Shion

The food's finally here!

Joon

Remember to chew. I don't want you choking again.

Reimu

Everywhere we go, people are relaxing and having a good time. I sent an update earlier, but―

Reimu

...What are you doing?

Marisa

I found a new type of parallel-world mushroom. I'm exposing it to heat to see how it reacts.

Reimu

Wow, that's some great research.

Marisa

Now, to give it a taste.

Marisa

Hrmm...

Reimu

Did you just eat it?

Marisa

It's delicious!

Reimu

I feel like all your research ends with you eating something...

Reimu

I can't believe how peaceful this world is.

Marisa

*relaxed sigh*

Marisa

There's just one problem, Reimu.

Reimu

What's that?

Marisa

My stomach... is really starting to hurt.

Reimu

You don't say...

Marisa

Everyone looks so cheerful. There's nothing strange in the village or at Hakurei Shrine.

Reimu

I've already submitted my report.

Marisa

For real? My bad.

???

Are the parties still going? Or have they ended?

Reimu

We're taking a short break. Supposedly, there's another party starting in the village soon.

Marisa

Apparently, Miyoi's cooking all the food. I can't wait.

???

Something isn't right...

???

All those New Year's Eve parties, and yet the New Year hasn't arrived yet.

Reimu

So? You can never have too many parties.

???

That's true...

???

But why have you only been sending reports at night?

Reimu

Because it's still nighttime.

Reimu

Wait... I don't get it.

Marisa

Reimu, even I can tell something's off.

Marisa

I've got a feeling whatever's going on here ain't good.

Reimu

How did I not realize sooner? I guess it could have something to do with the peaceful vibes...

Marisa

Some incident resolver you are.

Marisa

Endless New Year's Eve parties and a New Year that won't arrive. The flow of time is all messed up.

Marisa

We need to check how much of Gensokyo's been affected.

Reimu

I'll go and scout things out. You stay here and try to figure out exactly what's happening.

Marisa

So I gotta investigate the flow of time, huh? Easier said than done.

Marisa

I wonder if any of my tools can help...

Hey, Marisa!

Whoa, what's with all the cool gizmos?

Eirin

Are you setting up a stall or something?

Marisa

No, nothing like that. I'm just running a little experiment.

Eirin

An experiment, you say?

Marisa

Actually, you might be able to help. How many New Year's Eve parties do you reckon you've been to?

Eirin

I've been to five, and Kaguya's been to three.

Marisa

And when was the last time you saw the sun?

Eirin

I suppose... before I attended those five parties.

Eirin

Wait...

Marisa

Based off that reaction, this clearly isn't normal for this world. Someone's ability must be prolonging the night.

Eirin

I'd say that's a fair assumption.

Marisa

Whoever it is, they're in full control of time.

Eirin

They're keeping the parties going, and we're all attending them without a second thought...

Not gonna lie, I'm pretty confused.

Eirin

Put simply, if it carries on like this, the New Year will never come.

Whaaaaat?!

That's, like, super not good!

Reimu

Hi, you two. Are you helping Marisa with her investigation?

Marisa

Yep, and thanks to them, I've already made a breakthrough. How's the rest of Gensokyo doing?

Reimu

This whole area is covered in fog.

Reimu

I tried to fly through it, but I couldn't... No matter how far I got, there was more fog.

Marisa

Sounds like some kinda barrier. Can't you use your ability to break it?

Reimu

I tried, but it didn't work. There must be some special magic protecting it.

Marisa

Well then, I'm outta ideas. What places AREN'T covered in fog?

Reimu

The village and Hakurei Shrine.

Are you saying we're trapped in?!

Eirin

The fog's really covering that much land?

Marisa

This ain't good. Who in Gensokyo could even do this?

Kosuzu

Hey, guys! What're you all doing together?

Miyoi

Are you on your way to my place? It's nice that you're excited, but you're kinda early!

Reimu

Oh, uhh...

Miyoi

I've gotta go get started on the prep! I used up all the ingredients at the last party.

Kosuzu

I'm helping her out! We'll see you all later, OK?!

Marisa

The village is so peaceful...

Eirin

Only because no one's realized what's going on. Whoever's behind this must be dulling their senses.

I didn't realize until Reimu and Marisa told me...

Marisa

Someone's trapped us all in for endless parties... But who? And why?

Marisa

It's almost like we've been injected with an undetectable poison...

Suika

Hm, which New Year's Eve party should I go to next?

Suika

...Huh?

Suika

Why if it isn't Reimu and Marisa?!

Reimu

Sorry, we're kinda in the middle of something―

Reimu

Why do you look like that?!

Suika

Look like what?

Suika

Oops.

Suika

So, what were you talking about?

Marisa

How dumb do you think we are?!

Suika

You saw through my disguise, huh?! It's a bit late, though.

Reimu

Wait, are you the one behind all this?

Suika

Hehe, maybe. But so what if I am?

Suika

What are you gonna do about it?

Suika

I'm waaaaaaiting!

Marisa

This is too easy... She isn't the real Suika!

Eep! She turned into fog and vanished!

Marisa

Suika! We know it's you trapping everyone in.

Suika

How very astute of you. You deserve a round of applause! *sarcastic clapping*

Suika

But just 'cause you know what I'm doing doesn't mean you can stop me.

Marisa

How 'bout you quit hiding and come face us?

Suika

Nah, I don't feel like it! But you're welcome to try and find me.

I just heard her voice... but I think she's gone.

Marisa

So she had her fun with us and left, huh?

Reimu

Yeah, but... why would she, of all people, do something like this?

???

Reimu, Marisa. Can you hear me?

Ahhh! Another voice!

Marisa

Relax, PLAYER. It's coming from our Parallel Watches.

???

I need you to do something―something only the two of you are capable of.

???

Find me a purple Seal Crystal.

Marisa

What does she need one of them for?

Reimu

...For now, let's just follow our orders.

Marisa

Yeah, you're right.

Marisa

We should head to Hakurei Shrine. I bet this world's Reimu has been collecting Seal Crystals.

Reimu

Eirin, will you come with us?

Eirin

Sure. And we can't forget PLAYER.

I promise I'll come in handy!

Marisa

...Found one.

Marisa

Seems like she didn't realize it was any different from a regular Seal Crystal and left it here with all the others.

???

Listen up. Here's what you have to do next...

???

Travel to different parallel worlds and gather items that symbolize each of them.

Reimu

Worlds, plural? Do we really have time for that?

???

This mission is of the highest priority.

???

Thanks to Suika's ability, there's a chance the world you're in... will start to fade.

Reimu

And what'll happen then?

???

Not sure. But you need to find a way to reverse the effects.

???

You're the only ones up to this task.

Gather items that symbolize parallel worlds...

How are they supposed to do that?

Eirin

Isn't finding Suika our best bet, strange person talking through a watch?

???

That's right, parallel-world Eirin.

???

But doing so will be like finding a needle in a haystack.

Eirin

And if we don't find her, this world could be in danger...

Eirin

Which is why you're asking Reimu and Marisa to prepare for the worst.

Th-That makes sense!

Leaving it to them gives us the best shot!

Marisa

You can count on us. We're incident-resolving specialists.

Reimu

PLAYER, take this, just in case.

Are you sure?

Is this... an interworld comms device?!

Marisa

Uh-huh. It's kinda like Reimu's Yin-Yang Orbs. If anything happens, be sure to let us know.

Reimu

Don't worry, we won't be gone long.

Eirin

(The only silver lining is that Kaguya's not trapped in this fog. Maybe she'll realize something's not right...)

Eirin

(No, best not to get my hopes up.)

Umm, Miss Eirin?

Wanna wait inside? It's cold out here.

Eirin

PLAYER. Let's go and find Suika.

The watch said it's like finding a needle in a haystack...

Eirin

Even if all we do is narrow it down a bit, it'll be worthwhile.

Eirin

We can't just sit here and wait to be saved.

...OK!

Let's find her together!

Reimu

We made it... but we're even more trapped in here than we were before.

Marisa

Whoa, check out all the books. This room's awesome.

Remilia

*yawn* So sleepy...

Marisa

Who's there?!

Sakuya

I brought your afternoon tea, Mistress.

Remilia

Am I still dreaming, or is that Reimu and Marisa I see beyond the steam?

Marisa

Remilia? That means...

Satori

How did you get in here without opening any doors?

Marisa

Satori's here, too?!

Satori

...This is the Scarlet Devil Mansion.

Marisa

Hey, you just read my mind, didn't you?

Satori

...Just think of this outfit as a keepsake from a time gone by.

Remilia

You two want to explain what you're doing here?

Sakuya

Here, I poured you some tea.

Remilia

...So basically, Flan and Koishi from a parallel world came here and turned Hakurei Shrine into a school.

Marisa

But it's back to normal now, which means you resolved the medium incident, right?

Sakuya

Exactly. If you don't believe us, you're welcome to go there yourselves.

Marisa

I-It's fine. We believe you. Totally.

Satori

We've had other parallel-world visitors, too...

Satori

According to Orin, they all made it home safely.

Reimu

I can't believe Suika was in this world, too...

Satori

She didn't look much like the one causing you trouble, though.

Remilia

And she didn't really seem to be here for any purpose. Unlike your one.

Remilia

But hold up, what are these parallel world symbols you're looking for?

Marisa

We're not sure. Let's find out.

???

Parallel world symbols are items, but there's nothing inherently special about them.

???

They differ in each world. It might be something the people there value highly or don't value at all.

Reimu

You mean you have no idea what they are?

???

This is your mission, not mine.

Marisa

...Well, you heard her. If it's not too much trouble, we could really use your help.

Remilia

That was very polite of you. The Marisa we know would just demand our help.

Marisa

She would?! She's giving us Marisas a bad name.

Reimu

You're like that in every world.

Satori

I'm pretty sure this is the item you need.

Marisa

A ribbon? Looks like you were taking real good care of it.

Satori

Of course. It was a gift from Koishi. The fact she was from another world is irrelevant.

Reimu

...So?

???

That's it, Reimu―the symbol of that world.

Reimu

Satori, will you let us take it?

Satori

I'd rather not...

Satori

But OK. It's yours.

Sakuya

Are you sure about this, Lady Satori?

Satori

It seems like they really need it.

Satori

Besides...

Satori

A lost ribbon can't break the bond Koishi and I share. It's not that weak.

Reimu

Satori...

Remilia

That's not the only ribbon we've got.

Remilia

The ribbons they left us traveling through time and space to help others... If that isn't fate, then I don't know what is.

Reimu

Thank you. Thank you so much.

Marisa

I wish we could stay and thank you more.

Satori

Thank Koishi if you ever see her. She reminds you of cherry blossoms and has the prettiest smile.

Reimu

We'll keep an eye out for her.

Reimu

So, we're in the Human Village now, huh? Seems kinda lively here.

Disguised Bake-Danuki

It's gotta be that one next!

Hidden Youkai

Yeah! I can't wait to get given more of those yummy sweets!

Reimu

Sweets, huh?

Marisa

And by the sounds of it, they're gonna be getting them for free. Sounds fishy to me. Let's go take a look.

Reimu

This is― Ahhhh!

Koishi

I need a table for two new guests!

Marisa

Say what?

Seiga

Oh, hello there. I'm Seiga, the owner.

Reimu

You mean of this club?

Reimu

You're all wearing pretty strange outfits.

Clownpiece

Reimu! You came! This isn't just any club―it's a social club!

Sagume

[We all decided on these outfits together.]

Marisa

Even you're in on it, Sagume? How come you picked a red dress?

Sagume

Hehehe. [That's a secret.]

Marisa

Secret or not, that thing suits you. Like, REALLY suits you.

Sagume

[You're too kind.]

Reimu, Marisa! Welcome!

You seem... a little different from usual.

Reimu

Oh, you're here too, PLAYER. Long story short, me and Marisa aren't from this world.

Clownpiece

Not from this world, huh?

Clownpiece

Wait, what?! You're not Reimu?!

Reimu

I am. It's just― ...OK, let me explain.

Okina

Hmm... So you're both from parallel worlds, and you're here to save another one. Sounds like tough going.

Okina

The heavier your burden, the more weighed down you are by worry and doubt.

Reimu

There's no worry or doubt here. We're just focused on our mission.

Sagume

[If you're fully focused, perhaps you haven't realized your true feelings. You need to stop and rest from time to time.]

Okina

On that note... Flandre, you're up!

Flandre

Coming! Troubles weighing you down? Well, you've come to the right place.

Reimu

Whoa, slow down. I don't like where this is going.

Flandre

I'll destroy you AND your troubles!

Marisa

Huh? Why not just destroy our troubles?

Flandre

Where's the fun in that?!

Reimu

Pretty sure there's no reasoning with her, Marisa.

Guys, I think we should try and stop her!

Reimu

Oh, you guys are here too.

Saki

We snuck in to look for stronger recruits!

Yachie

I'm only here to keep an eye on these two. No way was I letting them do as they please.

Yuuma

Why not? You're such a buzzkill.

Flandre

Well? Did I destroy your troubles?

Marisa

No, but I guess you took my mind off them.

Flandre

I'll take that as a win!

Okina

Yes, well done, Flandre.

Seiga

How about some refreshing, chilled jello after the battle?

Marisa

Perfect timing. Using magic sure works up a sweat.

Reimu

Wow, it's sealed tight. This must make storage easy, huh?

Marisa

Cold and delicious. Was the jello your idea, Seiga?

Seiga

No, Eternity Larva brought it here from another world. Seems like she caused quite a fuss here.

Yoshika

I heard there was another me here, too!

Seiga

Apparently, another version of Byakuren and Nue were, too.

Seiga

I stole... I mean, I took inspiration from Eternity Larva's jello to make my own.

Reimu

Wait, does that mean...?

???

Reimu, Marisa. That's it. Those are the parallel world symbols.

Marisa

I knew it.

Reimu

But we just ate the ones she gave us! Can we have another?

Letty

Sure. Take them with you if you like.

Reimu

Thanks. We owe you one.

Marisa

Phew, now that's sorted, and our troubles have been destroyed, I reckon it's time to go.

Sanae

Miss Reimu, Miss Marisa! Check out my awesome social club outfit!

Sanae

Th-They left already?!

Marisa

Whoa, what's with all the lights?!

Reimu

And all the cheering? It's giving me goosebumps.

Marisa

Wait, are we... on a stage?

Reimu

Maybe we're in some kinda music world.

Marisa

Maybe, but right now, we gotta bigger problems. Like that MASSIVE crowd...

Reimu

Wh-Why is everyone looking straight at us? I feel so self-conscious all of a sudden.

Merlin

I-It's a miracle...

Marisa

Huh?

Merlin

Our music summoned Reimu and Marisa!

Lunasa

I-I don't understand. Is that even possible?

Lyrica

It must be! Music really does transcend worlds!

Raiko

They must've come to thank us. Now it's your turn to hype up this crowd!

Reimu, Marisa, welcome back!

You look different from when you played your concert.

Marisa

What concert? What's going on here?

Merlin

Ahhh, my memories of that day are flooding back! What an incredible concert it was!

Marisa

Sorry to spoil all the fun, but we're kinda in a rush...

Lunasa

And yet you made time to come to our concert!

I dunno, they look pretty confused to me...

Ah, well. I'll go plug in their mics!

Reimu

Look, we're real sorry, but we're not here to listen to―or play―music...

Lyrica

For real? Well, what are you doing here?

Marisa

Hmmm... Well, it all started when―

Lunasa

Can you give us the TLDR version? We've got more songs to play.

Reimu

Well, long story short...

Your mics are hot!

Marisa & Reimu

We're here to save the world.

Raiko

Now THAT'S how you start a performance!

Merlin

Listen up, everyone! Reimu and Marisa have come to save us!

Lyrica

Get ready for our next song! And the battle that comes with it!

Marisa

Waaaaait! You've got it all wrong!

Reimu

Now it sounds like we were showing off!

Reimu

Hey, PLAYER. What're those things you're waving around?

Maracas! I'm here to back you up!

And look, I stuck a lyric sheet to the back of that amp!

Marisa

Thanks, but... are you seriously expecting us to sing?!

Reimu

Just try to stay in time... and in key! Here goes nothing!

Marisa

We didn't even get a chance to rehearse. I hope this crowd is easy to please.

Lyrica

Wow...

Merlin

What a mind-blowing performance! I could really feel the save-the-world vibes!

Reimu

O-Oh, uhh... thanks.

Raiko

Reimu, Marisa, this is for you.

Marisa

A fan, huh? Thanks, I was getting kinda hot under all these lights.

Lunasa

It's not a regular fan―it's a concert fan. And we all signed it for you.

Marisa

That explains why it's not really cooling me down.

???

Well done, you two. That's another parallel world symbol.

Reimu

I guess it was worth performing on stage then.

Marisa

The crowd's still pretty hyped up, but I think it's time we made a stylish exit.

Reimu

See you, guys!

Reimu, Marisa...

Good luck saving the world!

Marisa

Whoa, this is one crazy world. Feels like I've been here before, though...

Reimu

I know what you mean. It's like something out of a childhood dream.

Doremin

That's because you're in the Dream World!

Marisa

Who are you?!

Reimu

Some new kinda enemy?!

Doremin

I'm Doremin! And you are?

Marisa

We're from another world.

Reimu

It's a long story, but basically, we're here to find the symbol of this world.

Reimu

If you have any idea what that might be, we'd appreciate you telling us.

Marisa

...Who's that rushing around?

Cirno

I'm the STRONGEST EVER! I'll find us some big red Seal Crystals in a flash!

Reimu

You know about big red Seal Crystals?

Satori

Yes. We came all the way to this Dream World to search for them.

Joon

We sent the little medium-incident starter home first, though.

Marisa

That magic of yours... You're not from this world, are you?

Satori

No. None of us four are.

I'm helping them look for a way to get home!

Reimu

Tough break. We'll help you find some big red Seal Crystals.

Doremin

How kind of you!

Doremin

The thing is, getting your hands on them isn't easy.

Doremin

There's some at the top of that tower.

Doremin

But we need to unlock every floor to get up there.

Doremin

And to do THAT, we need a small mountain's worth of these beautiful Dream Coins.

Reimu

I thought you were in charge of the Dream World. Can't you just, I dunno, fly up there?

Doremin

Sadly, this isn't MY Dream World. Please, we could really use your help.

Doremin

...Oh, wait. You already said you'd help us.

Doremin

Right? Right? Right?

Reimu

Y-Yeah, I said we'd help. Cut that out already!

Doremin

Great! I'll go get changed for the mission.

Marisa

Why's she getting changed?

Joon

You need a disguise to enter the Dream World with your real body... supposedly.

Reimu

For real?

Doremy

All right, let's go.

Marisa

Who the heck are you?

Doremy

First up, a battle of bullets on the Moon Voyage tram. Ready?!

Cirno

Leave it to me! I'll clear it in record time!

Sunny Milk

Oh hey, Cirno! Let's play!

Doremy

Next up, it looks like there's a bullet battle picture-taking contest going on in the plaza.

Reimu

Is it all right for us to barge in on them?

Yuuka

If you've got bullets, you're more than welcome.

Doremin

Found you! What do you think you're doing?!

Doremy

Oops, busted.

Marisa

Wait up, big head. We're not here to cause trouble.

Doremin

Hmm, I thought I was Doremin-dreamin'...

Doremin

But it's these you're after, right? If you give me all those shiny Dream Coins, they're yours!

Cirno

All right! That's all the crystals we need!

Satori

We should've expected nothing less from the ruler of the Dream World.

Doremin

Right? I know eeeeeverything that goes on here.

Marisa

Does that mean you've got a couple more Seal Crystals with our names on them?

Doremy

Come on, let's not get greedy now.

Joon

Yeah, she needs to keep some in reserve for times like these.

Marisa

Hmph...

Marisa

If anything bad happens, I'm sure this world's me and Reimu will sort it out.

Doremy

Is resolving incidents really all you think about?

Marisa

That is kinda our job.

Doremy

Yes, but in the beginning, surely there was a reason for you to resolve incidents. Isn't that right, Doremin?

Reimu

What are you getting at?

Doremin

She's right. Maybe you were fighting to protect someone's smile.

Doremin

That's what kept playing out in your dreams, anyway.

Doremy

And if you're fighting for someone's smile, maybe you should try smiling yourselves from time to time.

Marisa

Uhh... What's with the popcorn?

Reimu

You think eating it will put a smile on our faces?

Doremy

Yep. It's my most delicious creation. Give it a taste.

Marisa

I'm not sure about all the colors... but OK.

Reimu

Huh. Tastes pretty normal.

Marisa

Why bother making it multi-colored but not give it some crazy flavor?

Doremin & Doremy

Just say you like it!

???

Reimu, Marisa. That's it.

Reimu

I figured as much.

Satori

So, everyone got what they came for, right?

Marisa

Looks like it. Which means―

Cirno

I'm going first!

Reimu

Let's check in with PLAYER before heading to the next world.

Back in the L^9 Universe...

It's been a while since they left...

And nothing's coming through on my Parallel Watch.

Eirin

Don't worry, PLAYER. This is Reimu and Marisa we're talking about.

Eirin

Besides, if parallel worlds work the way I think they do, parallel-world yous will be helping them.

O-Oh yeah!

Eirin

Let's have faith. I'm sure they'll save our world.

The watch is beeping!

Reimu

PLAYER, can you hear us? How's everything going there?

Thanks to Miss Eirin, it's all good!

Are you and Marisa OK?

Marisa

Yep. In fact, we're better than OK.

Eirin

So it's going well?

Reimu

Very.

Reimu

There have been medium incidents in all the worlds we've visited, but they're all either resolved or almost resolved.

Marisa

We've barely had the chance to show off our interworld incident resolver skills.

Marisa

We always try to do everything ourselves...

Reimu

But maybe this world doesn't need us to save it.

Eirin

Sounds like a good problem to have. But stay focused out there.

Yeah, give it your all!

Everyone in our world is counting on you!

Reimu

We know, we know. But it's kinda embarrassing when you say it like that.

Marisa

Ignore her. For now, we're gonna get back to collecting parallel world symbols.

Marisa

Take care of yourselves till we get back.

Don't worry, we'll find her!

Reimu

...Find who?

Oh, uhh...

Eirin

We're looking for the real Suika. We just got done checking the village.

Reimu

None of us has the faintest idea where she is, though. Are you sure this is a good idea?

Eirin

She can be anywhere. It's no use running from her or trying to hide.

Eirin

So we figured we might as well try and find her.

Reimu

But―

Marisa

She's right, Reimu. The items we're collecting will form the foundation of our fight against Suika, but that's all.

Marisa

Besides, Eirin's own pride is at stake here.

Eirin

I wouldn't go that far...

Reimu

Fine. But if things get dangerous, call us, OK?

Don't worry, we've got this!

I think the transmission ended...

Do you really think we'll find Miss Suika?

Eirin

Well, seeing as she can transform into literal fog, I'd say our chances are slim.

Eirin

But she must be using some trick to hide her youkai energy this well...

Eirin

Even if all we find is a clue, our efforts won't have been in vain. Let's stay positive and keep searching.

We already looked all over the village...

That means it's time to check Hakurei Shrine!

Eirin

Perhaps she's been hiding right under our noses this entire time. Let's go.

I've got a good feeling about this!

Marisa

Whoa! We managed to land, but this boat is tiny!

Reimu, Marisa?!

This is a spectator boat!

Reimu

PLAYER?!

Reimu

Hold on, I thought we were on a lake... This is the Youkai Mountain!

Marisa

Seems like a hot spring to me... *plops hand into water* Yep, the water's warm. This is definitely a hot spring.

Marisa

Is Kanako behind this?

Reimu

Maybe this is a medium incident.

Marisa

Reimu, sit still. You're rocking the boat!

Reimu

Just grab hold of something! I need to look around!

Eep, I'm in a Reimu and Marisa sandwich!

Aya

With the soothing scent of sulfur in the air, the day has finally arrived!

Aya

Get ready for the second Gensokyo Hot Spring Windsurfing Battle to begin!

Marisa & Reimu

Whaaaaaat?!

Aya

I'm your commentator, Aya the crow tengu. And joining me is...

Nitori

You guessed it. Me, Nitori!

Aya

I can't believe after everything that went down, we're here kicking off the second windsurfing battle.

Aya

It's all thanks to you, Miss Nitori. Great job getting Moriya Shrine on board.

Nitori

Hehe, don't mention it.

Takane

Hey, don't forget about me!

Reimu

Wait... Are we drifting toward some kinda start line?

Marisa

At this rate, we're gonna end up in the race.

Aya

Today's top prize is this froggie bath bucket.

Nitori

And not just any froggie bath bucket. This one's a first-edition handmade froggie bath bucket!

???

Reimu, Marisa.

Marisa

Oh no, I don't like where this is going.

???

You guessed it. That froggie bath bucket is a parallel world symbol.

Reimu

Sorry to spring this on you, PLAYER, but will you help us out?

You mean in the race?!

Sure! Sounds fun to me!

Marisa

We owe you one.

Nitori

Windsurfers, on your mark.

Aya

Get set...

Marisa

I think I know how we can win this race.

Reimu

How?

Marisa

Simple. By going all out and bagging ourselves an early lead.

Aya

GO!

Marisa

Red Side: Alter Spark!

Marisa

Whoa, what's with that firepower?! That team's well in the lead!

Rinnosuke

Huh, looks like there are two Marisas. Is this one of those medium incidents?

Marisa

Wait, was that... me?

Reimu

Nice one, Marisa. Let's cruise to the finish line and win that parallel world symbol.

Aya

I don't believe it!

Marisa

Huh?

Aya

The other teams used the Hyper Acceleration Hot Spring Slider and are catching up fast!

Nitori

A tried-and-true strategy. That slide was built by visitors from a parallel world.

Aya

The windsurfers have all upped their level massively since last time.

Nitori

There's no cruising to victory here. I'd say the race is on!

Aya

All the teams are neck and neck!

Nitori

Don't look away now!

Aya

What do you make of this team here, Miss Nitori?

Nitori

They've dressed themselves like our parallel world visitors. I'd say they've come to win.

Aya

And take a look here. A rather rare lineup, don't you think?

Nitori

Yes, but they're each very strong. If they figure out how to work together, they're in with a good shot of winning.

Aya

And from beyond the cloud of steam and bullets...

Nitori

It's the last-minute entries! PLAYER and her mysterious friends have done it!

Aya

We have our winners!

Reimu

I'm sweating all over... and not just from the steam.

Takane

Congrats. Here's your prize.

Marisa

Hehe, that was pretty fun.

Reimu

I'd love to soak in a hot spring for a while...

Marisa

Hey, we ain't got time for that.

Reimu

I know. We got―or rather, won what we came here for. Let's head to the next world.

Aya

Congratulations on winning the second Gensokyo Hot Spring Windsurfing Battle! How are you feeling?

Marisa

Like we gotta go.

Aya

Huh?

Takane

They vanished! Off to another world I guess!

Aya

They could've at least answered my question first! What am I supposed to write in my article now?!

Marisa

Whew, feels good to have solid ground beneath my feet again.

Marisa

And it's Forest of Magic ground, nonetheless.

Hey, Reimu! Hey, Marisa!

Wait... something's off.

Reimu

That's 'cause we're from another world.

So it's you two this time!

Marisa

You don't seem fazed. Are we not the first interworld travelers you've met?

Nope. There was Miss Kasen and Kokoro in swimsuits...

And Miss Reisen and Miss Sakuya!

Marisa

That's quite the lineup.

They all went home, though.

Reimu

So I guess this world's medium incident has been resolved.

Marisa

Seems like it. Let's not waste any time finding the parallel world symbol.

You're not talking about the Armstrong, are you?!

Reimu

Depends. What is it?

It's the thing everyone's after!

We're all pretending to be phantom thieves!

Marisa

Phantom thieves? Never heard of 'em.

Marisa

Wh-Whoa! ...Is that you, Sakuya?!

Sakuya

Sorry, coming through.

Reimu

Wait, was she...?

From another world? Yep!

She left before, but I guess she came back.

Marisa

She's as unpredictable as ever. Let's go after her, Reimu.

Sakuya

...Huh?

Hecatia

Stop. Right. Theeeeere!

Hecatia

You won't get past us!

Sakuya

Wow, you all look fantastic. And good job getting the jump on me.

Seiran

Gathering intel to get ahead of the game is what we do best!

Ringo

Get ready for a phantom thief battle!

Sakuya

Phantom thieving isn't really about battling... but, sure.

Sakuya

If this is what you want, you'll have to steal it from me!

Marisa

Well, this makes things easy. Here we come.

Marisa

You need about a thousand years more practice to out-steal... I mean, out-borrow me.

Seiran & Ringo

Ow, ow, ow.

Hecatia

Hey, this battle isn't over yet!

Junko

C'mon, Hecatia, you've had your fun. Let's go home.

Hecatia

Whaaaat? But things were just starting to get interesting.

Marisa

What a chaotic bunch.

Marisa

Now, Sakuya, hand over that Armstrong.

Sakuya

Fine. I figured I'd have to give it back to you sometime.

Sakuya

Here, Marisa.

Marisa

I think you might be thinking of the wrong Marisa.

Marisa

But whatever, we need it more than she does.

Marisa

We can just chalk it up as a present from me to me.

Sakuya

That's actually quite clever.

Marisa

I have my moments.

Marisa

By the way, what's the deal with that mini hakkero you've got there?

Marisa

Is that another one of MY items?

Sakuya

It is. I'm just borrowing it for a little while.

Marisa

I don't trust that "little while." Your sense of time is way different from the rest of us.

Marisa

Just make sure to give it back, all right?

Sakuya

Of course. In a little while!

Sakuya

Well, I think I best be off.

Sakuya

[Hey, are you sure 'bout that? We just got here!]

Sakuya

I know, but we only came to check how everyone was doing.

Sakuya

Farewell, Marisa! Farewell, Reimu!

Marisa

Guess that's our cue to leave.

Reimu

I could do with a lie-down...

Biten

So anyway, there's talk of putting up a statue of Sanae, too.

Chiyari

For real?

Enoko

That's hilarious! Who even thought of that?

Reimu

Oh, it's you three...

Biten

Miss Reimu! Sorry for barging in on you like this.

Chiyari

Something's different. Are you trying out a new look?

Marisa

Not exactly...

Enoko

Haha! You parallel-world folk sure work hard.

Biten

Yeah, but so do we! We went all out making that collage for the expo.

Chiyari

That reminds me. Check out this article about it.

Marisa

Is this... a shikigami? It's pretty small. Bet Kourin would love to get his hands on this.

Reimu

There's writing... but I can't read it.

Enoko

This is the "BUNBUN" website. Miss Aya from another world wrote all the articles.

Marisa

So she writes stuff in every world, huh?

Chiyari

Do you want this, by the way? It's connected to the Moon Net, so you can hear all the rabbits' conversations.

Marisa

Is that really OK?

Biten

The Moon Rabbits were worried at first, but apparently, they got an official memo saying it's fine.

Marisa

This device might be unique to this world. Thanks.

Marisa

*scans article* So there were doppelganger sightings... AND a sculpting contest. Are those things even related?

Enoko

You'd never guess, but they totally were.

Marisa

It says there were four parallel-world visitors, huh?

Enoko

Alice and Aya were from the same world, and they knew all about how to enjoy autumn.

Marisa

Autumn, huh? They sound pretty interesting.

Chiyari

Yuyuko was obsessed with the paranormal... despite being a literal ghost. She helped out PLAYER, though.

Reimu

Classic Yuyuko.

Biten

And Miss Minoriko was absolutely divine! She was like the embodiment of autumn's splendor. A true goddess!

Reimu

Wow, I would've loved to meet her...

Reimu

The medium incident must've been tough to handle.

Reimu

Dealing with visitors from parallel worlds is practically like saving the world.

Chiyari

I wouldn't go that far!

Enoko

It's all about chipping in however you can.

Biten

Easier said than done, though! It's not like we were involved.

Enoko

Yeah, but if we were, I'm pretty sure we'd have tried to help out.

Biten

You're right. We'd do all we can to protect what we hold dear.

Marisa

Us, too.

Reimu

Agreed. In fact, that's exactly what we're doing now.

Reimu

We're gonna "chip in" and save that world. Same with every other world within reach.

Chiyari

Save it from who?

Marisa

Someone pretty tough.

Chiyari

So you're traveling across worlds to find a way to win? That's incredible.

Biten

You two can do it! After all, you're the heroes who saved the Animal Realm with Lady Yachie!

Biten

Me and the Kiketsu Clan otter spirits are rooting for you!

Enoko

So's everyone in the Keiga Clan!

Chiyari

Give it your all.

Marisa

Haha, I never thought we'd be getting a pep talk from you guys.

Enoko

Why not?!

Reimu

Ignore her. She's just being snarky.

Reimu

Thanks, guys. It was great talking to you.

Marisa

We better be off. See ya!

Biten, Enoko & Chiyari

Good luck saving the world!

Marisa

More snow, huh?

Reimu

I wonder if this world's me is keeping up with her snow shoveling.

Marisa

If she's anything like you, she is... and complaining all the while.

Reimu

Yeah, but I tend to let it pile up round the back of the shrine.

Marisa

Huh. That's a bit of a letdown.

Tenshi

If it isn't Reimu and Marisa. Fancy seeing you here.

Reimu

Hi, Tenshi. Hi, Iku. Strange to see you together.

Tenshi

We take walks like this every now and then. So tell us, what are you two doing in this world?

Reimu

Nothing gets past you, heh?

Tenshi

Chalk it up to my celestial intuition.

Iku

You're from another world? That makes sense...

Marisa

We've actually been traveling to a bunch of different worlds.

Reimu

We need to ask you something. Have you had any visitors from parallel worlds?

Tenshi

We sure have.

Tenshi

From what I heard, Lily White and Letty were here fighting over winter and spring.

Tenshi

Mokou, Daiyousei, and an armored Cirno were here, too. The medium incident they caused got resolved.

Tenshi

No thanks to this world's you two, though. Apparently, they only showed up once everything was over.

Marisa

You mean we didn't help out at all?

Iku

Not even a little bit, according to what I heard.

Reimu

You gotta be kidding me.

Marisa

Guess we were slacking off somewhere...

Tenshi

Haha, don't beat yourselves up about it! You might be pro incident-resolvers, but you're still only human.

Reimu

...And from the sounds of it, we're far from perfect. I can't believe someone resolved the medium incident for us.

???

Sorry to interrupt.

Reimu

What is it?

???

There's a problem. I'll patch you through to Eirin.

Eirin

...H-Hello. Can you hear me?

Marisa

You sound pretty shaken up. What happened?

Eirin

There's no easy way to say this...

Eirin

PLAYER was captured by Suika.

Marisa

What?!

Eirin

It happened at Hakurei Shrine. Suika attacked us out of nowhere, and...

Eirin

And I got blown away. Now she's locked herself in the shrine with PLAYER.

Marisa

...Should we go back?

???

You don't have enough parallel world symbols yet. There's no point―

Reimu

We have no choice.

Reimu

I'm sure Suika won't hurt her too badly, but I'm worried for PLAYER.

Marisa

My thoughts exactly. Hang on, Eirin. We're coming.

Tenshi

So you're leaving?

Reimu

Sorry, but there's something we need to take care of.

Iku

In that case, take this...

Reimu

What is it?

Iku

I'm not sure, but I heard Daiyousei used it to try and stop all the fighting. It should come in handy.

Marisa

Thanks.

Tenshi

Don't mention it.

Iku

I'm not sure she was talking to you, Eldest Daughter.

Reimu

Right, we gotta get going. We've got a date with Suika.

In the L^9 Universe...

Reimu

Eirin! Where's PLAYER?

Eirin

That was quick. PLAYER's locked inside.

Marisa

Just to be sure... you're OK, right?

Eirin

Of course. I'm immortal, remember?

Eirin

Just focus on rescuing PLAYER.

Marisa

Right. We're on it.

Reimu

Suika! PLAYER!

Suika

Didn't take you long to get here. Don't worry, PLAYER's fast asleep in my arms.

*yawn* Ahhh...

W-Wait! Was I asleep?!

Suika

Yes, but now you're free to go.

*gasp* Miss Suika! I found you!

But... you're not the real Miss Suika, are you?

Marisa

PLAYER! Get over here, quick!

Reimu

So it was never your plan to take her hostage, huh?

Suika

An oni would never be so dishonorable. We kidnap people, sure, but we don't take them hostage.

Marisa

Then why show up so suddenly?

Suika

My hand was forced.

Reimu

How so?

Suika

I couldn't have anyone discovering that my real body was in the shrine's main hall, now, could I?

Marisa

You don't seem worried about telling us yourself, though.

Suika

There's no use hiding it now. PLAYER already learned the truth.

Marisa

Wayda go.

I'm just glad I could help!

Even though her clone knocked me out afterward...

Wait, where's Eirin?!

Marisa

She's fine. We'll take it from here.

Marisa

Reimu, let's do this. We'll cut through as many clones as it takes to get to the main hall.

Marisa

Reimu?

Reimu

...Why are you doing all of this, Suika?

Suika

I thought you'd save the questions for later. You're not scared, are you?

Reimu

Of course not. Do you have any idea how many oni I've exterminated?

Reimu

But...

Reimu

I don't want to fight you.

Suika

Well, you might wanna change that. You're outnumbered, you know?

Suika

I can summon a hundred, even a thousand clones if I need to. If you're too scared to fight, you don't stand a chance.

Marisa

She's trying to get in your head, Reimu. Stay focused.

Reimu

I am focused. Let's take her down.

Suika

Urgh! You got me!

Suika

...Just kidding!

Marisa

Hey, quit toying with us.

Suika

What? An oni's not allowed to make a joke anymore? Oh well, I'll just have to laugh about how weak you are instead.

Marisa

*pant* *pant* This is messed up...

Reimu

They just keep appearing out of thin air!

Suika

Well, we are made of fog.

Marisa

Now, Reimu!

Reimu

On it! Taking down these clones is getting us nowhere.

Reimu

Let's make a break for the main hall!

Reimu

Waaah!

Marisa

Hurry up, Reimu!

Reimu

I am hurrying!

Reimu

But I'm not getting any closer to the main hall!

Marisa

Wait, is that...?

Reimu

Yep―a barrier.

Reimu

And Suika's real body is on the other side of it.

Marisa

You gotta be kidding me...

Reimu

She's right there, but we can't reach her!

???

Reimu, Marisa. You can hear me, right?

???

You only have one option remaining.

Reimu

No! We can't do that!

???

I... don't want to lose you.

???

You must've realized by now―you can't beat Suika.

???

Which means you can't save that world.

Suika

Hey, Reimu.

Suika

Why don't you just listen to whoever that is and have some fun at a New Year's Eve party?!

Reimu

D-Don't kid around!

Suika

Who's kidding around? I'm dead serious.

Suika

Just listen to me for a sec.

Suika

There's no way you two can beat me.

Suika

So you might as well blow off some steam at a party.

Reimu

Not a chance!

Marisa

We won't rest till we've exterminated you!

Suika

Tut, tut. You never learn.

Suika

I've tried the carrot. Now it's time for the stick.

Just like water, humans always search for the path of least resistance.

After all, who would willingly choose a difficult one?

When told the world will end tomorrow, only a few would go all out to save it.

Humans choose the path of least resistance. The path of leisure. The path of weakness. It's in their nature.

That's why...

Reimu, Marisa...!

Suika

Just give up already. PLAYER can't bear to watch you struggle anymore.

Reimu

If we don't stop you... this world is doomed.

Suika

And you want to save it, heh? But why?

Suika

Just because you think you have the power to do so?

Marisa

Who cares why we decided to save it. All that matters is we did!

Suika

That's a lie. And it just so happens that I know the truth.

Marisa

We always try to do everything ourselves...

Reimu

But maybe this world doesn't need us to save it.

Suika

"Maybe this world doesn't need us to save it." I heard the transmission loud and clear.

Suika

The people of Gensokyo are smarter, stronger, and more tenacious than you thought.

Suika

You've seen it for yourselves, haven't you?

Reimu

Don't act like you know us―

Suika

Oh, but I DO know you. I've been watching you from the moment you arrived in this world.

Suika

You're WEAK. Far too weak to take me down.

Suika

Admit it. You know I'm right.

Suika

The best outcome for you here is to take pride in the fact it was someone as strong as me who defeated you.

Suika

Now, c'mon, the night is young, and there are New Year's Eve parties to enjoy!

Marisa

Tch...

Reimu

This isn't over yet!

Suika

Fine, fine. You really are stubborn.

Suika

I'm done holding back. There's no escape now.

Reimu

Eirin?!

Eirin

What are you two playing at?! I thought you were pro incident-resolvers!

Eirin

I don't have the strength to take Suika down, but I know you do...!

Suika

I told you I could make more clones.

Marisa

Eirin...

Reimu! Marisa!

Don't give up!

Reimu

PLAYER!

Marisa

It's now or never. Let's do this!

Suika

Where do you think you're going? Hoping to break through my barrier?

Reimu

That's right! We'll take on any obstacle you throw at us!

Reimu

You're a fool, Suika! Since when did you start hiding in fear?!

Suika

Not bad. But I won't let you through―

Marisa

Stay out of her way!

Suika

Why...? Why are you pushing yourselves so hard?!

Reimu

Because we know that's exactly what everyone out there in the other parallel worlds is doing!

Marisa

We might not matter much on the grand scale of the multiverse, but that's no excuse for us not to give it our all!

Suika

You're right―you DON'T matter much. I won't lose to you. The parties will continue. And the New Year will never come!

Reimu

We'll see about that!

What's that coming from the main hall?

R-Reimu and M-Marisa are... changing!

Marisa

We're one step closer to the main hall. The real fight starts now.

Reimu

At last. You really made us work for this, huh, Suika?

Marisa

You could be a god for all I care, there's no way we're losing now. My soul's fully ablaze!

Reimu

Mine, too. I feel as free as a bird soaring in the wind!

Marisa

You always feel like that. You're the number one free spirit in Gensokyo.

Reimu

Hey, don't spoil the moment. I see that new outfit hasn't done anything for your personality.

Suika

My barrier! Wait... What are those outfits?!

Reimu

We're finally face-to-face.

Suika

It's not just your outfits that've changed... You're completely different from before.

Marisa

Quit blabbering. You want us to re-introduce ourselves or something?

Suika

Well, if you're offering...

Marisa

I'm Marisa Kirisame, the Witch of Scarlet Dreams, and I've traveled across worlds to exterminate an oni.

Reimu

I'm Reimu Hakurei, the Hakurei shrine maiden. I'll deliver peace to all with my own two hands.

Suika

Pah... Hahaha!

Suika

HAHAHAHAHA!

Suika

I needed a good laugh. Now, come and get me, incident resolvers!

Suika

But first, let me remind you who I am! Hear my words, and burn my visage into your memory!

Suika

I am an oni long forgotten by Gensokyo. I am one of the Big Four of the Mountain, and I shall be your demise!

Suika

Don't trick yourself into believing you can beat an oni, lest hubris defeat you before I get the chance!

Suika

...Huh?

Reimu

Finally awake?

Suika

Did I... lose?

Marisa

That'd be putting it mildly.

Suika

Right...

Suika

To think you'd actually beat me.

Suika

Great job, guys.

Suika

*yawn* No matter how much I sleep, I'm still tired.

Marisa

Nice to see you're taking it easy... despite all the trouble you caused!

Suika

What? I'm worn out from all the parties. And what better time to sleep in late than New Year's Day?

Reimu

You're unbelievable... Why did you even do all that before?

Suika

Didn't I tell you?

Suika

I saw you arrive in this world...

Suika

You both looked so gloomy, so I figured I'd liven things up with a party or two... or three... or―well, you get the picture!

Marisa

You did ALL that to cheer us up a bit? Even for you, that must've been tiring work.

Reimu

If someone weaker than us had shown up, things could've gotten really out of hand...

Suika

I only did it BECAUSE it was you.

Eirin

Ahem.

Eirin

Don't you have something to say to me, Suika?

Suika

Hm? ...Oh, right.

Suika

Nice bullets back there!

Eirin

That wasn't what I had in mind...

Miss Suika, I think you need to say sorry!

Suika

Honestly, I didn't expect you two to show up.

Suika

Maybe I let my guard down a little, but to think you'd figure out my real body was in the main hall...

Suika

Turns out the people in this world are more capable than I thought.

Eirin

You said it yourself.

Eirin

The people of Gensokyo are smart, strong, and tenacious.

Eirin

We can handle our own problems.

Suika

...Pah!

Suika

Pahaha, you've got me there!

Suika

The parties are over, and the New Year is about to begin, huh?

Suika

...I can't wait.

Marisa

Right, we better start getting ready. Aren't you gonna put up your New Year's banner, Reimu?

Reimu

Huh? Why do I have to decorate another world's Hakurei Shrine?

Marisa

Who cares what world this is, Hakurei Shrine is Hakurei Shrine. Now, hurry up, it's almost midnight.

Suika

Strong when it counts, all over the place when it doesn't. You two really are one of a kind.

I'm back, Miss Yukari.

Yukari

Good to see you again.

Yukari

Did you enjoy the interworld festival?

Yukari

I'm sure you did, but at the same time...

Yukari

I'm sure it wasn't always a relaxing affair.

I had a super fun Christmas with everyone!

We successfully ushered in the New Year!

Yukari

Hehe, they all did their best to make it a day to remember.

Yukari

I'm just glad the New Year arrived safely. This truly is cause for celebration.

Yukari

Humans decided to mark the end of one year and the beginning of another during this bitterly cold season.

Yukari

There are many reasons for that, of course...

Yukari

But now they embrace it. Such is the magic of New Year's.

Yukari

That should come as no surprise, though. After all, New Year's is the boundary between one year and the next.

Yukari

The first deep breath of new-year air revitalizes both your body and soul.

Wow, that sounds amazing...

Too bad I missed my chance this year.

Yukari

I'd bet the reason some people climb mountains on New Year's Day to watch the sunrise is for that same reason.

Yukari

It's easy to feel like this year will be the same as the last, but trust me, it won't be.

Yukari

PLAYER, I wish you a happy New Year...

Yukari

May you enjoy it in good health.

Alice

These kimono are so elegant. I've wanted to try wearing one for so long.

Byakuren

Slipping into a brand-new kimono and welcoming the New Year feels like a breath of fresh air.

You both look stunning!

You're so dazzling I might have to close my eyes!

Alice

Oh, stop. You're exaggerating!

Byakuren

All we did was change into our New Year's outfits.

Byakuren

Still, being able to wear kimono together kind of feels like destiny, doesn't it?

Oh, right. So you and Alice...

Alice

I'm glad we get to celebrate New Year's like this.

Alice

And thanks to the Christmas cheer you brought to Gensokyo, PLAYER, I just know we're in for a good time.

This New Year's is going to be a whole new level of fun!

Alice

What was that sound?

Byakuren

Not sure. Let's go outside and check.

Reimu

Su...

Reimu

SUIKA!

Suika

Don't blame me. I just wanted to see what would happen if I poked the purple Seal Crystal.

Reimu

Why is it always you making a mess of things?!

Marisa

Well, it looks like we hopped worlds again. Let's see...

Alice

It's Reimu, Marisa, and... Suika? Why is Suika the only one not in a kimono?

Alice

Wait. Are you three from...?

Alice

Wh-Why are you staring at me like that? Is there something wrong with my kimono?

Marisa

No... nothing at all.

Marisa

It suits you.

Alice

...You're a lot nicer than our world's Marisa.

Hisami

What's with all the commotion?

Zanmu

Wow, this is a lot to take in. Where should we start?

Zanmu

First, those kimono. Alice, Byakuren, you both look beautiful.

Kutaka

Super beautiful!

Alice

Oh, thank you.

Zanmu

You got them made here at Kourindou, didn't you?

Byakuren

That's right. We just finished putting them on when these guys appeared in the middle of Rin-Rin Mart.

Zanmu

I see. Reimu, Marisa, your outfits are rather splendid, too. And, oh...

Zanmu

It's you, Suika.

Suika

Sup, Zanmu. You think it's strange I'm here or something?

Zanmu

Of course. It IS strange!

Byakuren

Everything about this is strange...

Byakuren

Why don't you fill us in on how you got here?

Marisa

Huh, so you guys just celebrate New Year's over and over.

Reimu

I guess that explains why you all seem so carefree.

Byakuren

It certainly sounds like you've been having a tougher time than us.

Byakuren

You must be tired from all the oni-extermination. Why don't you relax here for a while?

Yeah, stay and celebrate New Year's with us!

Reimu

Sorry, but we have work to do...

???

Reimu, Marisa. This is merely a suggestion, but...

???

Why don't you take them up on their offer?

???

You're already in that world. You should enjoy yourselves a little before leaving.

That talking watch is right!

Plus, this New Year's is gonna be an extra special one!

Marisa

Well, I suppose we did just finish saving that last world. A break every now and then couldn't hurt...

Reimu

You're right. Just every now and then.

All right! Let's have some fun!

Reimu

I guess that settles it.

Suika

Yay, New Year's!

Marisa

Don't cause any more trouble. Got that?

Suika

Me? Cause trouble? Never!

Alice

Are you OK with this, Hijiri? Suika's an oni.

Byakuren

She seems to be telling the truth. And if what Reimu and Marisa told us is true, she could be a powerful ally.

Byakuren

I hope we don't get attacked by a parallel world, but if we do, we couldn't ask for a better defense than these three together.

Alice

Well, if you're OK with it, then so I am.

Zanmu

All right then, as our honored parallel-world guests, allow me to be your host.

Marisa

So now an oni is literally inviting us to Hell, huh?

Zanmu

Don't be so crude. I'm simply saying I'll help ensure you enjoy the New Year's celebrations.

Zanmu

What's next on my schedule, Hisami?

Hisami

You're attending a kite competition at Sai no Kawara.

Zanmu

Kite flying, heh? What a wonderful way to spend New Year's.

Byakuren

Why don't we all go to Myouren Temple first? We're planning to compete, and I'm sure we have a spare kite you can use.

Zanmu

Hmm, is that so?

Zanmu

Proposal accepted!

Reimu

...I guess we're going, too, huh? Some host you are.

Kyouko

L-Lady Hijiri! That kimono!

Kogasa

You look... divine!

Byakuren

Calm yourselves. We have guests.

Minamitsu

You look amazing, Lady Hijiri!

Shou

I feel honored just to be in your presence.

Reimu

What's with all the shouting? We're only here to pick up a kite or two, right?

Marisa

Can you blame 'em? It's pretty exciting seeing someone you care about in a fancy kimono.

Marisa

We should let them get it out of their system.

Reimu

Fine by me... I'm just worried this is gonna escalate into some kinda party.

Zanmu

That would be rather time-consuming. If they insist on a party, they should at least treat you as their guests of honor.

Hisami

They're still talking, huh?

Hisami

Hmm, what's this?

Kutaka

What's that you've found, Miss Hisami?

Hisami

Just some shuttlecocks.

Marisa

Classic symbol of New Year's.

Byakuren

I thought we put those all away...

Kyouko

I don't get it. They weren't there when I swept the grounds this morning.

Nazrin

I bet someone came in here to play and left them here by mistake.

Byakuren

No, they're definitely ours. I recognize the soapberries and paper colors.

Byakuren

Which means...

Byakuren

I told you to tidy up while I was gone...

Byakuren

But you were playing with these shuttlecocks, weren't you?

Kogasa

Y-You've got it all wrong, Lady Hijiri! The shuttlecocks, they must've got caught on the wind―

Byakuren

Line up. I'm going to scold you one by one.

Kogasa

N-No more scolding!

Byakuren

Kogasa, get back here!

Kogasa

Eep!

Kutaka

I didn't like the sound of that...

Suika

It sounded like... fabric tearing.

Minamitsu

Oh no! The kite!

Kogasa

...Hm?

Ichirin

It's torn clean in two...

Kogasa

D-Did I do that?

Nazrin

We could try and make another one, but there's no way we'd finish in time for the competition.

Kogasa

H-How could I do something like this?! I'm SO SORRY!

Byakuren

Don't worry, I'm not angry. I know it was an accident.

Kogasa

*sniff* Lady Hijiri...

Byakuren

There there, Kogasa. There there.

Byakuren

We are in a tough spot, though.

Reimu

There were a bunch of stalls outside Kourindou, right?

Reimu

Maybe one of them sells kites.

Kutaka

You mean at Rin-Rin Mart?! Kite stall... Kite stall...

Kutaka

I don't remember seeing one. Then again, all I can remember is selling fried chicken.

Zanmu

Well then, let's go and check for ourselves. Surely someone's selling kites for the big competition.

Hisami

Back to Rin-Rin Mart it is then.

Byakuren

I'm going out again, but this time, I want you to tidy up properly. And do your best to fix the kite, too.

Myouren Temple Members

Got it!

Shou

Before you go, Hijiri...

Byakuren

What is it?

Shou

What I said when we saw you in your kimono wasn't just to distract you from our slacking off. I meant every word.

Shou

We all did.

Byakuren

I know.

Byakuren

BUT!

Byakuren

You WERE slacking off, so there'll be no kite-flying for you today. Now get to work.

Shou

Hehehe, your word is my command.

Minamitsu

Bye, Lady Hijiri! We'll take care of the temple while you're gone!

Byakuren

Thank you. Goodbye, everyone.

Enoko

Alice, you look gorgeous!

Narumi

That kimono is spectacular!

Patchouli

And those are definitely your colors. You even match with all your dolls.

Alice

I actually made their outfits with some of the leftover cloth.

Alice

By the way, we're all here looking for a kite to buy. Have you seen any?

Narumi

Can't say I have. What about you, Enoko?

Enoko

Sorry, me neither.

Patchouli

Nitori was selling some, but I heard her yell, "All sold out!" with a big smile before closing time yesterday.

Alice

Sounds like we're out of luck...

Zanmu

Looks like we're all back. Did anyone find a kite?

Nope...

Alice

It's too soon to give up.

Alice

We can just make a kite ourselves!

Kutaka

You mean right now?! I-I don't see how we'll finish in time...

Suika

All we need is a sail, some string, and a frame...

Reimu

If we make everything from scratch, it'll definitely take too long, but if we buy the components and assemble them...

Reimu

I saw a stall selling string. It looked thick and sturdy enough to fly a kite.

Marisa

And I have an idea where we can find a sail.

Kutaka

You interworld travelers sure are good at gathering intel!

Marisa

W-We're just doing our best to help out.

Alice

Competing with a homemade kite will be so much fun. Lead the way, you two.

Futo

Look, Tojiko. I finally finished!

Tojiko

Wow, a fabric print of the Divine Spirit Mausoleum! It's incredible!

Marisa

There they are. Hey, you two, mind if we borrow that?

Futo

Whatever for?

Byakuren

We want to use it as the sail for our kite.

Tojiko

Wh-What?! There's no way we're gonna let you do that!

Futo

If thou wantest it, come and claim it!

Sagume

[New string available now. Challengers welcome.]

Reimu

This is the one. The stall selling string.

Reimu

Hang on, you guys are Lunarians. What are you doing here?

Toyohime

Just running a little experiment.

Alice

Well, we'd like some string, please. ...Challengers welcome. What does that mean?

Yorihime

We're testing the strength of our new kite string. If you help us out, we'd be happy to give you some.

Reimu

Why does everyone insist on battling us?

Marisa

Dunno. But that string looks top-quality. We gotta get our hands on some.

Alice

If we want to win the kite competition, we have to be prepared to fight for it!

Reimu

I didn't realize this competition was so... competitive.

Reisen

Bamboo! Come get your bamboo!

Reisen

From medicine chests to kite frames, get all your bamboo goods here!

Reimu

One kite frame, please! We'll pay you in bullets!

Reisen

All right, that'll be... Wait, did you say bullets?!

Reisen

Those were some sensational bullets... This bamboo kite frame... is all yours.

Marisa

All right, we got everything we need!

Reimu

That was a lot harder than I was expecting it to be. Do we still have enough time to make the kite?!

Hisami

It's already noon. It'll take us a while to get the competition, so it's going to be tight.

Alice

Leave it to me! Me and all my dolls will work while we're on the move!

Marisa

Great. I'll fly you all there on my broom. Just focus on getting that kite made!

Alice

Did you say fly?! O-OK!

Reimu

Let's go, PLAYER!

Things haven't been going smoothly...

But you both look like you're having tons of fun!

Eiki

Are all the participants ready?

Eiki

In that case, let the Sai no Kawara kite competition―

Kutaka

Wait!

Kutaka

Hi, Lady Eiki!

Eiki

Oh, Kutaka. I thought you were busy at the Rin-Rin Mart.

Eiki

You really do work too hard.

Kutaka

Don't worry, I'm having tons of fun!

Eiki

You're here to enter the competition, correct?

Eiki

...Just to confirm, you DO have a kite, don't you?

Alice

Yes, we managed to finish them on the way here. ...That's right, I said THEM.

Alice

We made four kites!

Four?! While we were flying?!

You and your dolls really are amazing!

Zanmu

Well, Eiki? May we join the competition?

Eiki

Absolutely. But there'll be no playing favorites today. I hope you understand.

Zanmu

Of course. It wouldn't be any fun otherwise.

Suika

So a judge is the judge, huh? Guess there's not a lot going on in Hell.

Hisami

That's not true. Lady Eiki is extremely busy.

Byakuren

This area falls under her jurisdiction. Which means judging this competition is part of her job.

Eiki

True, but... today's my day off.

Eiki

Quiet, everyone.

Eiki

Participants, pair up and step forward with your kites at the ready!

Hisami

She said to pair up, Lady Zanmu. Shall we―?

Zanmu

Suika, let's do this.

Hisami

Whaaaaaat?!

Suika

You sure? Hisami seems pretty upset.

Zanmu

I'm sure, I'm sure.

Zanmu

I'll teach you about New Year's. Then you can go back to your world and spread the word.

Zanmu

The moment you arrived, my plans expanded beyond the border between worlds!

Suika

That means nothing to me, but I guess this'll give me a good story to tell.

Suika

I'm in!

Kutaka

Do you want to team up with me and Piyo, Miss Hisami?

Hisami

...Sure. Thanks.

Reimu

What do you reckon, Marisa? Wanna compete against me?

Marisa

Nah, let's partner up for this one.

Reimu

Really? I thought you'd jump at the chance to face off against me.

Marisa

Cut that out, would you?

Marisa

It's New Year's Day, and we're allies.

Marisa

We're kinda like rivals, too, but if I'm gonna fight alongside someone, it's gotta be you.

Reimu

Wow, what's this all of a sudden?

Marisa

Nothing. But if I end up losing, I wanna make sure you lose, too.

Reimu

Tch, why didn't you just say that from the start?

Marisa

...So, who are you gonna compete with, PLAYER?

I don't know. I'm the only one left...

Eiki

Since PLAYER is still young, I'll allow her to join any team she likes.

Reimu

In that case, wanna come with us?

Yeah, sounds fun!

Reimu

Let's give these guys a New Year's to remember!

Eiki

Is everyone in position?

Eiki

The rules are simple.

Eiki

You will all drop your kites in the river and tangle your strings together.

Eiki

Then, you'll attempt to tug your kite to freedom. Whoever's string remains unbroken wins.

Reimu

Wait, is THAT what a kite competition is?

Marisa

Sounds more like tug-of-war. The more power, the better. Simple.

Alice

Hold on. If those are the rules, these teams seem a little unfair.

Byakuren

What do you mean, Alice?

Suika

All right, here goes. I'm gonna pull with all my might.

Alice

We're up against oni...

Byakuren

True. I wonder if we still stand a chance.

Alice

I'm counting on you, Byakuren.

Byakuren

Don't worry, you're in good hands.

Eiki

Three, two, one...

Eiki

Go!

Suika

Heeeeeave!

Suika

Well? Did we win?

Zanmu

No. The knot in our string came undone right away and we lost.

Suika

Hahaha, no way!

Reimu

Huh? It looks like a bunch of teams' strings broke.

Marisa

Guess it all comes down to exactly how they were tangled together. We must've got lucky.

Marisa

Let's take out the rest and win this competition!

Eiki

And it's all over!

Eiki

The last string remaining belongs to... Reimu, Marisa, and PLAYER! They win!

Yay!

Reimu

Great work, PLAYER.

Marisa

I knew we'd win.

Marisa

We had a pretty big advantage using Lunarian string, though...

Eiki

I will now present you with your prize. These things are all the rage lately.

Eiki

Allow me to personally congratulate you―

Marisa & Reimu

P-Parallel Watches?!

Marisa

These watches are nowhere near as advanced as ours... but it's funny how similar items exist in different worlds.

Reimu

I couldn't believe my eyes at first. They look identical to ours.

Koishi

Waaah, we lost!

Satori

Why don't we visit a shrine while we're up here? I'll even buy you some sweets from the New Year's stalls.

Koishi

F-For real?

Kokoro

Ooh, can we come along too?

Koishi

Sure! Sweets and a shrine visit!

Suika

Now that you mention it, I haven't done my New Year's shrine visit yet.

Marisa

Oh yeah, me neither. What about you guys?

Alice

I haven't, either. What do you want to do, Byakuren?

Byakuren

If you ask me, this feels like destiny. Let's all go together.

Reimu

Destiny connecting people from different worlds is quite something.

Suika

I'll bet there's loads of food stalls around. Hmm, what to eat first?

So we're all going to Hakurei Shrine?!

C'mon, let's hurry!

Reimu

Go on, lead the way. Hakurei Shrine's the perfect spot for New Year's Day.

Marisa

Oh, looks like this world's Reimu actually prepared for the New Year.

Reimu

Of course she did. She's me.

Marisa

Yeah, yeah. Whatever you say, little miss shrine maiden.

Suika

So many yummy stalls!

Kutaka

You said it!

Alice

Byakuren, they're serving amazake over there.

Byakuren

Let's go and get ourselves some.

Byakuren

I'm setting sail for Makai aboard the Palanquin Ship after this.

Byakuren

Why don't you come with me? That way, we can make the most of the connection we've made today.

Alice

That sounds... wonderful!

Hisami

Lady Zanmu, I found some yummy-looking treats. Would you like some?

Zanmu

I don't mind if I do.

Hisami

OK, open wiiiiiide!

Zanmu

Mmm, delicious.

Hisami

Wh-Why...?

Well, we stopped by practically every stall...

But we're finally at Hakurei Shrine!

Gotta clap twice... Then bow...

I pray for lots more yummy food this year!

...Oh, and also for interworld peace!

Alice

Psst, PLAYER. You're saying it out loud.

Byakuren

Hehe. True, but those are some wonderful prayers.

Reimu

Interworld peace, huh?

Marisa

Pretty optimistic, if you ask me.

Reimu

That's a good thing, no? There's nothing better than a peaceful today leading to a peaceful tomorrow.

Marisa

Yeah, but there's no guarantee that'll be the case. Especially not with the problem we're up against.

Marisa

Given the circumstances, praying to the gods feels almost... cowardly.

Marisa

That's why...

Marisa

I swear to do all I can to make every single one of your prayers come true.

Reimu

Now who's being optimistic?!

Marisa

Reimu...

Marisa

I don't think the reason people visit shrines is to pray for the gods to solve all their problems.

Marisa

I feel like praying is really about reaffirming your own beliefs and desires.

Reimu

Huh, that's an interesting take.

Marisa

After that, it's up to you to work toward your goals.

Suika

Now I'm sure that whatever problem you two are facing, you'll find a way to solve it. Time for me to leave.

Suika

I had one Hell of a New Year's Day! Bye, everyone!

Marisa

She left before us, huh?

Reimu

Yep.

Reimu

Someday, we'll finish what we've started and restore peace to our worlds.

Reimu

After all, we're incident-resolvers. This is what we do best.

Marisa

You can say that again.

Marisa

Even if our progress is slow... Even if we stumble...

Marisa

So long as we keep moving forward, we'll pull through in the end.

Reimu! Marisa!

Did you finish praying?

Reimu

Yep, just now.

Marisa

That reminds me, there's something I wanted to say to you.

Reimu

You don't say? I was just thinking the same thing!

Marisa

All right, let's say it together on three.

Reimu

One, two, three...

Marisa & Reimu

Happy New Year!

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