Lossy's Journal

Hello, Miss Yukari!

Yukari

Hello, PLAYER. You're full of energy again today.

Yukari

I, on the other hand, am not. My troubles are weighing me down, you see!

For real?!

Can I do anything to help?

Yukari

Your support is all I need!

What do you mean?

Yukari

I mean I need you to cheer for me!

Go, go, go! You can do it!

Yu-ka-ri! Yu-ka-ri! I-I mean, Miss Yu-ka-ri!

Yukari

How adorable! I feel better already!

R-Really?!

Yukari

Emotional support is extremely important to us youkai.

Yukari

Some youkai can be exterminated with a single word, while others may be spurred on to save an entire nation.

Yukari

Which brings us to the next interworld festival. I have a question for you, PLAYER.

Yukari

Would you prefer to be on the supporting side or the supporting side?

The supporting side!

The supporting side, I suppose...

Wait, both options were the same!

Yukari

That's because this time, you don't have a choice!

Yukari

Now get out there and support those youkai with everything you've got!

In the L2.11 Universe, where all kinds of sports festivals are held...

Like ball game festivals.

Spectator

Wow, oni throws are something else!

Spectator

You can really hear the ball ripping through the air!

And track and field festivals.

Spectator

I can't believe she cleared a bar that high!

Spectator

The way she twisted her body to get over it was amazing! I think I'm in love!

And gymnastics festivals.

Spectator

She moves with such grace! Just look at that ribbon twirl!

Spectator

Each move is more captivating than the last... I can't take my eyes off of her!

Bunbunmaru Newspaper

Magnificent "Mountain Leaders" Win Again! Can Anyone Stop Them?!

Momiji

Wow, the Mountain Leaders won again.

Aunn

Hello there, Miss Momiji.

Momiji

Miss Aunn? I didn't expect to run into you here.

Aunn

I was just collecting some mugwort on my way to Moriya Shrine. I use it to make colored mochi, aka yashouma.

Momiji

With all the sports festivals lately, I'm sure everyone wants a little mochi to help them recover their strength.

Aunn

They sure do. I actually brought some with me to snack on. Would you like a piece?

Momiji

That's very kind of you. Thanks...

Momiji

About the sports festivals...

Momiji

Don't you think it's a little strange how the Mountain Leaders always win?

Aunn

I hadn't really thought about it.

Aunn

I've been so busy with my stall that I haven't been able to watch much. What sort of team are they?

Momiji

It's a bunch of youkai from the Youkai Mountain. They don't really have a set roster.

Aunn

Yeah, everyone just plays when they feel like it.

Momiji

To tell you the truth, I actually competed for them once!

Momiji

And naturally, I won!

Aunn

That's amazing!

Momiji

Nah, it was nothing special.

Momiji

Whoever plays for them, the Mountain Leaders always win. It doesn't make any sense...

Aunn

You don't think someone's fixing the matches, do you?! It wouldn't be the first time!

Momiji

That can't be what's going on... can it?!

Aunn

Well, I hope you enjoyed the yashouma! I hope we see each other again soon.

Momiji

It was delicious! See you around!

Momiji

Match-fixing, heh? Nah, it couldn't be...

Momiji's Imagination

I'd never do that.

Momiji's Imagination

All that matters is the advancement of tengu society.

Momiji

Hrmm, I have no way to know what they really think...

Momiji

But if someone IS up to no good, it'll be us white wolf tengu who have to deal with the consequences...

Right knee up to my waist, wave my pompoms...

Then shout... LET'S GO, TEAM, LET'S GO!

Hi, Momiji!

Momiji

Whatever happens, I don't want us to get stuck cleaning up someone else's mess...

Um, Momiji? ...Gensokyo to Momiji!

Momiji

*gasp* PLAYER?! How long have you been here?!

Ages! I said hello and everything!

Momiji

What are you doing here? Don't you know it's dangerous?!

I'll be fine!

I'm here practicing my cheering!

Momiji

Shouting support for the teams from the stands and hyping up the crowd. That kinda cheering?

Yep, but it's more than that.

There are different routines for each team!

Momiji

There are?!

Uh-huh. And we're free to cheer for whoever we like!

We all split up into different groups on the day!

Momiji

Wow, I had no idea.

Momiji

Wait, do cheerleaders get to spend time with the teams? If they did, they'd be in a great position to gather intel...

Momiji

If I find out how the Mountain Leaders always win, it might lead me to whoever's pulling all the strings.

Momiji

Then again, maybe no one's pulling any strings. Either way, it's in my interest to find out...

Momiji

That settles it, PLAYER. I'm gonna become a cheerleader!

Yippee! We get to practice cheering together today!

It might be tricky at first, but let's try our best!

...Momiji?

*poke* *poke*

Wow, she's really out of it...

Momiji

*gasp*

Momiji

Sorry, I felt like I was gonna faint for a second. It must be this new outfit... and knowing everyone's gonna see me in it!

For a second, I thought you HAD fainted...

Try and relax! You look great in that outfit!

Momiji

D-Don't say that. You'll just make me even more embarrassed!

Momiji

By the way, I thought there'd be other cheerleaders... Are we early or something?

Nope. The others have started arriving late recently...

Sannyo

Well, hello there. What an adorable new member to our cheer group.

Miss Sannyo!

Sannyo

Fix those postures! This is cheerleading, not cheer-lazing!

Momiji

Y-You're a cheerleader, too, Miss Sannyo?!

Sannyo

What? Something about that strange to you?

Momiji

N-No, it's just I imagined you as the one being cheered for, seeing as you normally take charge of things...!

Sannyo

Well, sometimes it's fun to cheer for others.

Sannyo

Forget that, though. What's going on with you? You seem jittery.

Momiji

Th-This is all kinda new to me...

Sannyo

Relax! You're here 'cause you wanna support the players, right?

Sannyo

And there's NOTHING embarrassing about that!

Momiji

Wow, that's so... inspirational! I wish I could be like you!

Momiji

All right, I'm ready to give this cheerleading thing a go!

Sannyo

Don't just give it a go. Give it your all! You're here for all the right reasons.

Momiji

Oh, uhh...

Momiji

(I can't afford to raise any suspicion. Better keep my investigation to myself for now...)

Momiji

Y-You bet I am!

Sannyo

Hmm, I hope you're not just saying that.

Momiji

Of course not! C-C'mon, let's start practicing already!

Momiji

Cheerleaders need to dance, right? Why don't we start with that?

Our dancing is called cheer dancing!

Sannyo

If we didn't move in time, we'd be no different from regular spectators, so we plan our routines beforehand.

Sannyo

We do everything in sync, so we have to know when to shout, which direction to swing our arms, and even how high to jump.

Momiji

Th-That's pretty intense!

Sannyo

Sports are battles between the players' spirits. But we can give them strength with our cheering.

Sannyo

When they see our perfect cheer dancing, their spirits soar.

Momiji

Huh... I think I'm starting to get it now.

Momiji

You can count on me. I'm used to working as part of a team!

Sannyo

In that sense, tengu are pretty suited to being cheerleaders, huh?

Sannyo

But a cheerleader has more to do than just cheer dancing...

Sannyo

Organizing practices! Bringing the players water! Providing homemade food! Helping players stay calm before a match!

Sannyo

Cheerleaders have to support the teams in every way possible AND pull off a perfect cheer dance on the big day!

Momiji

I heard about that from PLAYER, but it sounds like so much work!

Sannyo

Just try and pick things up one at a time. But what to start with...?

Sannyo

Oh, I know. Hey, Nemuno. Teach the newbie how to cook, would you?

Momiji

Miss Nemuno's a cheerleader, too?!

Nemuno

We got a newbie, heh? It's been a while.

Momiji

Oh, you're wearing a chef's outfit.

Nemuno

Yep, I run a little cooking stall.

Sannyo

Nemuno supports the players with her food.

Momiji

She supports them... with food?

Sannyo

That's right. Every cheerleader needs to be able to cook.

Sannyo

Let's see if we can trust you to make cheer bento boxes.

Momiji

What have bullets got to do with cooking?!

Sannyo

You're too weak to be called a cheerleader. Run to that waterfall and back... a hundred times.

Momiji

Eek!

Momiji

*pant* *pant*

Nemuno

Nice runnin' out there.

Momiji

Being a cheerleader sure is tiring...

Komachi

Miss Sannyo made you run, huh? Feel free to take it easy for a while.

Hina

You look great in that outfit. You fit right in.

Momiji

Y-You're all cheerleaders, right? ...N-Nice to meet you!

Kogasa

So, c'mon, why did you decide to join us?

Momiji

There was something I wanted to―I mean, I wanted to do something different for a change...

Shion

That's some rotten luck, signing up at a time like this.

Momiji

What do you mean?!

Shion

You don't know? Figures.

Shion

The players have decided they don't need anyone cheering for them.

Shion

Can't say I blame them, though. No matter how much we cheer, the Mountain Leaders always win.

Hina

Neither the players nor the crowd care about us anymore.

Momiji

I had no idea...

Hina

At first, everyone loved us. The players said it was great being cheered for even when they were behind.

Hina

But after a while, they started taking us for granted...

Komachi

Those first few festivals were so much fun...

Momiji

Just listening to all that has really bummed me out...

Momiji

*sigh* There's no way I can investigate things properly like this...

Why don't you say something to CHEER them up?!

Momiji

That's... a great idea!

Momiji

I'll be the cheerleader's cheerleader!

Nemuno

The cheerleader's cheerleader?!

Sannyo

I like the sound of that! Consider it your first official duty!

Momiji

You got it!

Momiji

My first duty as a cheerleader... Get ready to be cheered for!

Shion

Say what?

Momiji

You can do it!

Nemuno

The newbie's really cookin'... I better get me stove fired up, too!

Momiji

How's that for cheering?!

Nemuno

Not bad, newbie, not bad!

Nemuno

Hey, cheerleaders, come getcha grilled chicken cheer bento boxes! Fill them bellies then get back to cheering!

Shion

These are for us?! Yippee!

Momiji

Miss Nemuno?! What's that outfit?!

Nemuno

This? I had it tucked away in me locker. I figured I wouldn't need it...

Nemuno

But it looks like it's time 'as come.

You look amazing, Miss Nemuno!

Nemuno

Fer real? I don't usually pay too much attention to me clothes, but I love a good compliment.

Shion

*yummy noises* *more yummy noises* Thank you, kind chef. Thank you...

Kogasa

These spring onions go so well with the grilled chicken... I'm starting to feel better already!

Momiji

That's amazing! Now you can cheer your hearts out!

Aya

Well, well. You all seem... cheerful.

Momiji

Miss Aya? What are you doing here?

Aya

I saw you running by the Waterfall of Nine Heavens earlier.

Momiji

Y-You did?!

Aya

In that outfit, it was hard not to notice you.

Aya

But I must say, it suits you. Say cheese!

Momiji

Hey, cut that out.

Aya

To think you'd sign up to be a cheerleader without telling anyone... You must be up to something.

Momiji

A-Am not!

Aya

Don't worry, it's fine with me.

Aya

I just hope you don't do anything you'll regret...

Aya

The next festival is a long-distance relay race on the Youkai Mountain!

Aya

I'd say it's gonna be another win for us Mountain Leaders.

Aya

Especially since all the other teams are full of competitors who've done nothing but lose to us!

Kogasa

A long-distance relay race, huh?

Aya

Four players from each team will take it in turns to carry a sash as they run all over the mountain.

Komachi

Whoa, that sounds tiring...

Aya

I don't know which team you cheerleaders are gonna be rooting for...

Aya

But I hope the competition doesn't get too ugly. We wouldn't want to scare poor Momiji off. Hehe.

Aya

See you at the race.

Momiji

What...

Momiji

What's with her attitude?!

Momiji

Is she trying to say the Mountain Leaders are gonna win no matter who I cheer for?!

Momiji

I gotta prove her wrong and shut her up!

Meanwhile, in the L^11 Universe, in the Hieda residence...

Miko

Thanks for letting us use this place, Child of Miare.

Akyuu

I'm happy to have you here. Besides, I like to stay on top of all the latest goings on.

Miko

Seems like Myouren Temple's been pretty crowded recently.

Miko

And not just with youkai. I heard there have been children from the village showing up too.

Byakuren

We decided to hand out yashouma at this time of year.

Byakuren

With their healthy little appetites, the children come back time and time again, claiming to have not received any yet.

Miko

Hehe, how adorable.

Byakuren

Is it true that you've acquired some new disciples at the Divine Spirit Mausoleum?

Miko

Uh-huh. But I suppose that's only because of the state of the world.

Miko

With how fickle everything's become, some people want to find a way to stay true to themselves.

Akyuu

I understand where they're coming from. It's all too easy to be swayed by the prospect of your wishes coming true.

Byakuren

Yes, those big blue Seal Crystals have been causing a great deal of trouble.

Akyuu

Have you two given any thought to what you'd wish for?

Miko

Heh, can't say I have. After all, we're the ones who make wishes come true.

Byakuren

Wishing simply isn't in our nature.

Akyuu

You're right. I'm sorry for asking such a foolish question.

Akyuu

Shall we take a break? I'll have some teacakes brought to us.

Akyuu

Is this...?!

???

So you guys make people's wishes come true, huh?!

???

But with the people in danger...

???

How many can you save?!

Aunn

Ahh, there's not a thing to do...

Reimu

All's well in the world.

Reimu

...But with all this free time on our hands, it'd sure be nice if someone paid us a visit.

??? & ???

Having some trouble?!

???

Just leave it to me!

???

To US. You mean leave it to us!

Aunn

Who are you?!

Reimu

And what are you doing here?

Tojiko

It's me, Soga no Tojiko, here to help in Lady Taishi's stead.

Tojiko

Got troubles? I bet you do... But fear not, I've come to save you!

Ichirin

Hold up, Tojiko. It's me who's gonna be doing all the saving. That's right, me. Ichirin Kumoi!

Ichirin

...Hm? Oh yeah, that's right. Unzan says he wants to help out, too!

Aunn

Mister Unzan sure is big!

???

I never knew mikoshi nyuudou could be so fluffy...

Ichirin

Quit staring. You'll make him blush.

Tojiko

...Hang on, this is Hakurei Shrine.

Ichirin

I can't believe we ended up here. The Hakurei shrine maiden's the last person we wanna see!

Tojiko

You said it. It'd be better for everyone if she just kept lounging around here.

Ichirin

Yep, she's no use to us. Best she's good for is sweeping the shrine grounds.

Reimu

Did you guys just show up here to insult me?

Reimu

You're right, I WAS lounging around. Quite happily, too. But now, I've found myself a task...

Reimu

Exterminating unwelcome youkai!

Ichirin

Well, isn't this a surprise? This world's Hakurei shrine maiden has some moves.

Tojiko

Yep. Sorry for what we said before.

Tojiko

Right, we're heading back to the village. See ya!

???

See yaaa!

Aunn

I feel like I heard a third voice...

Reimu

Musta been the nyuudou. And there we were having a relaxing day!

Reimu

Those three are from Myouren Temple and the Divine Spirit Mausoleum, right? I wonder what they're up to.

Aunn

Do you want me to go and take a look?

Reimu

You sure? All right then. In the meantime, I'll check out the village.

Aunn

OK, see you later!

Reimu

There was something off about them, though.

Reimu

I know I said I wanted visitors, but not if they bring trouble to my doorstep.

??? & ???

Umm, Miss Rei― Got troubles?! I bet you do!

Sanae

Don't worry, there's no need to explain. I can tell just by looking at you!

Reimu

Oh, it's you, Sanae.

H-Hold up, Reimu... There's two of them!

???

Oh boy...

???

We gotta do something, quick.

???

Hang in there, □□□□□□...

Sanae

Here from a parallel world, it's me, Sanae Kochiya, the modern missionary!

Reimu

...This day just keeps getting weirder and weirder.

Sanae

Who are you calling weird? If you think that, this world's Miss Reimu, then you're behind the times.

Reimu

What did you say? Are you two angling for a battle, too?

Sanae

I-I'm not!

Sanae

OK, baby, I'll take you on!

Reimu

Who are you calling baby?!

Sanae

Hrmm, not bad! Seems like you're keeping up with the times after all!

Reimu

Will you explain what's going on now?

Sanae

If you really wanna know, I'll tell you!

Sanae

But I warn you, it's a looong story...

Reimu

Fine with me. I've got nothing better to do.

Sanae

Ahem... Ahem... Aaaaahem!

Reimu

Stop clearing your throat and get on with it.

Sanae

So, uhh... the thing is... I kinda came here from another world. Like... POOF! ...You know?

Reimu

Is that the whole story?!

Sanae

I was gonna stretch it out, but it wasn't as stretchy a story as I thought.

Reimu

Well, how come you're with the regular Sanae?

Sanae

It's kinda embarrassing... but she kept saying I was behind the times...

Sanae

Oh, yeah. That's right!

Sanae

But it's not just her. EVERYONE in this world is like that!

Sanae

So, being the genius, on-trend girl that I am, I realized something...

Sanae

The reason I was brought to this world was to start a cultural revolution!

Sanae

After she told me that, I figured I'd better stay with her. You know, in case she takes things too far.

Sanae

To be honest, I just wanna get her back to her world as soon as possible...

Sanae

Y-You'd really do that for me, other me?! What a kindhearted gesture! You must be some kind of angel!

Sanae

Maybe angel is taking things too far. But you're definitely nice! Like, REALLY nice!

Reimu

I take it back. She's not weird... She's completely crazy.

Sanae

A-Am not...

Sanae

I just got carried away complimenting myself. You know, 'cause she's not me, but in a way, she IS me...

Sanae

Yeah, I don't think that explanation is really helping.

Sanae

Oops, sorry.

Reimu

Anyway, I was about to go look for the last guys who showed up here. Wanna come with?

Sanae

Sure thing! Where are we headed?

Reimu

They said they were going to the village, so that's where we'll start.

Sanae

The village?! This is the perfect chance for me to share my knowledge of all the latest trends with everyone!

Sanae

See you, me! I'm off to help Gensokyo catch up to the times!

Sanae

Well, it's not like I can let her go without me... I'm coming, too!

???

How's Lady □□□□□□ doing?

???

Still no change.

???

There must be something we can do...

Ichirin

Anyone else got any troubles? I'm from Myouren Temple and I'm here to help!

Tojiko

Don't listen to her. I'm the one you should trust with your troubles.

Tojiko

And feel free to visit the Divine Spirit Mausoleum anytime.

???

Mhmm, this yashouma is yummy.

???

The nyuudou user and the ghost are giving it their all...

???

But how much can they really accomplish?

Sanae

Wh-What's going on here?!

There aren't many people around...

At this time, the village is usually super crowded.

Reimu

Looks like there are plenty of people, it's just they're all cooped up inside.

Sanae

Maybe it's 'cause they don't want to be disturbed by those two.

Sanae

Phew... The fewer people see the other me, the better.

Sanae

That's just what I was thinking―only, the complete opposite! I'm gonna go door to door and meet everyone!

Sanae

YOU CAN'T! ...I-I mean you can't interrupt whatever it is they're doing. It could be important!

Sanae

You sure are trouble, Sanae... Hey, wait. I'm Sanae, so does that mean I'M trouble, too?!

Ichirin & Tojiko

Did someone say trouble?!

Sanae

Yes, but not that kinda trouble. I was saying she―and by extension, I, ARE trouble... Make sense?

Sanae

Of course it doesn't!

Ichirin

Hey, it's another shrine maiden. This time it's the one from Moriya Shrine... Only, there's two of them.

Tojiko

One, two, what does it matter? They aren't going to ask us for help anyway. Let's ditch 'em.

Sanae

How rude! You're the ones who came over to us, remember?!

Reimu

I know where this is going...

Tojiko

Sorry for turning cold on you like that, but we're on a mission.

Sanae

In that case, consider yourselves forgiven.

Kokoro

Hey, let's get moving already. My Noh roadshow isn't over yet.

Sanae

What's a Noh roadshow?

Tojiko

Since people stopped leaving their houses, we've been carrying Kokoro and her stage around so she can perform for them.

Sanae

Sounds kinda like a Noh parade if you ask me...

Aunn

Ah, Miss Reimu! Found you!

Reimu

Hey, Aunn. Did you check out Myouren Temple and the Divine Spirit Mausoleum?

Aunn

Yep, and there's something strange going on with both of them. Will you come and take a look with me?

Reimu

You got it.

Reimu

Let's not waste any time. We gotta get the village back to normal!

???

Hey.

???

Heeeey.

???

I said HEY!

Huh? It feels like someone's tugging on my sleeve.

Oh, it's you...

Koishi

Will you help me?

In the L2.11 Universe, on the Youkai Mountain...

Momiji

It's strategy time.

Momiji

Let's figure out everything we can do to support the runners at the big race!

You only just joined, but you're already taking the lead!

You're amazing, Momiji!

Momiji

Not at all. It's just―

Aya

But I hope the competition doesn't get too ugly. We wouldn't want to scare poor Momiji off. Hehe.

Momiji

I won't stand to lose to Aya!

Nemuno

I like yer spirit, newbie.

Nemuno

But don't forget, we're cheerleaders. It ain't our job to decide who wins and loses.

Momiji

I won't forget.

Sannyo

Well, the starting gun hasn't gone off yet, but we've already got a big problem on our hands...

Sannyo

None of the other teams want to go up against the Mountain Leaders.

Momiji

What?! Why not?!

Sannyo

Simple. They don't think they stand a chance of winning.

Momiji

If no one shows up to race... we'll have no one to cheer for!

Momiji

Then how am I supposed to shut Aya up?!

Sannyo

At this rate, the Mountain Leaders look set to win by default.

Momiji

Do you think we can convince some people to race?

Sannyo

Cheerleaders don't usually do that kind of thing...

Kogasa

Yeah, but it's not a bad idea. If the runners we find win, then maybe people will start appreciating us again!

Kogasa

Let's find the best runners around and assemble the best team Gensokyo's ever seen!

Hina

But no one's been able to beat the Mountain Leaders yet.

Komachi

Yeah, just lumping a bunch of good runners on a team might not be enough.

Momiji

Hmm, you're right...

Momiji

Well, why don't we put our faith in the power of cheering... and choose the people we want to cheer for the most?

Sannyo

If only it were that easy.

Komachi

What do you mean? I think it's a great idea. I wanna put my faith in cheering!

Kogasa

Do the people have to be fast, too?

Momiji

Even with all these sports festivals, at some point, everyone here decided to become cheerleaders...

Momiji

And I'm sure that was because you wanted to support the competitors who were giving their all.

We can go back to our roots and cheer our hearts out!

Sounds super fun to me!

Kogasa

And to me!

Komachi

You're right. We don't cheer just because we want a specific person to win.

Komachi

When we see someone giving 110%, we can't help but cheer for them.

Sannyo

Well, if you guys are happy, then so am I.

Momiji

I heard that cheerleaders are allowed to root for whatever team they like...

Momiji

But just this once, let's band together to put an end to the Mountain Leaders' winning streak!

Shion

I sure hope we can pull it off.

Sannyo

Oh, it's just you guys. Where are the runners you found?

Momiji

They should be here soon. Everyone's bringing someone they want to cheer for!

I wonder who everyone picked...

Kogasa

Sorry to keep ya waiting!

Kyouko

So, uh, why am I here exactly?!

Y-You mean you don't know?!

We're building a team for the relay race!

Kyouko

Ohhh, you mean a cheerleading team! Well, you picked the right yamabiko. My voice is amazing!

Kogasa

That's great... but you're actually gonna be running in the race!

Kyouko

Oh, that makes sense...

Kyouko

Wait, whaaaat?!

Shion

Haha, I'd be surprised too if I suddenly got told I was gonna be a runner!

Hina

You ARE going to be a runner, Shion.

Shion

...

Shion

Wait, whaaaat?!

Hina

I just know you'll do great!

Shion

But why?! I'm a cheerleader!

Hina

Because I know for a fact you used to be an athlete!

Hina

Seeing you fight on against all odds was the reason I became a cheerleader! You're the girl for this!

Shion

I can't win it alone, though!

Komachi

Hey, guys. It's pretty lively here, huh?

Kutaka

Hellooo!

Kyouko

H-Hellooo!

Momiji

So you chose Miss Kutaka, huh, Miss Komachi?

Komachi

She's the most hard-working person I know. She climbs down the mountain every day on her commute.

Kutaka

Yep, which means I know this place like the back of my wing! You can count on me!

Nemuno

There y'all are. Good to see s'many happy faces.

Biten

Heh heh, I know this place like the back of my paw! Plus, I'm used to running around as part of an elite guerrilla unit!

Sannyo

So that means the four runners are...

Sannyo

Kyouko, Kutaka, Shion, and Biten.

Shion

You're really gonna make me race?!

Biten

I'm gonna secure us the win, then secure myself some compliments from Lady Yachie!

Kutaka

Let's give it our all!

Kyouko

What she said!

Shion

Y-You guys are like birds of a feather, huh?!

Momiji

You need to warm up before you start running, though... How about a battle of bullets?!

Sannyo

We'll cheer you on like it's the real event. Everyone, to your positions!

Hina

Go get 'em, Shion!

Shion

Fine... Let's just get this over with!

Shion

H-How do you like that?

Nemuno

That was amazing, guys. Have some bento boxes. These ones have grilled fish in 'em.

Shion

Yay! Food is the best reward!

Kutaka

I love grilled fish!

Biten

Your cooking is amazing. Even with the same ingredients, I could never make anything this good.

Momiji

Thanks for the bento boxes, Miss Nemuno!

Nemuno

I'm just sorry there ain't nothing more I can do to help y'all.

Kyouko

I was surprised when Kogasa first asked me to be a runner... but it's actually a ton of fun!

Biten

Good exercise followed by good food. I feel myself powering up already!

Biten

Thanks for the support out there, cheerleaders!

Hina

I haven't cheered this hard in ages. Normally, whoever I cheer for gives up before I even get tired...

Komachi

Cut it out, would you? We're supposed to be enjoying ourselves.

Kyouko

She's right. It's time to forget about our many, many, many failures and get excited for the future!

Biten

Yeah, but none of us have ever beaten the Mountain Leaders...

Kutaka

No one has.

Momiji

C-C'mon, guys! Now's not the time to lose all your confidence!

Shion

We'll probably get left in the dust during the big race... but keep cheering for us, OK?

Kyouko

What she said!

Momiji

Don't say that. You can win this! Just think about how much stronger you've all gotten!

Hina

Thanks for being so kind, Momiji... But it's like they say, in the end, we're gonna lose.

Momiji

N-Not if you give it your all! "You can do it! You can do it!" Remember?

Momiji

...No? Nobody?

Sannyo

Let's call it a day before things get any more depressing.

Sannyo

Seems like we should make this next festival the last.

Momiji

...What do you mean?

Sannyo

I mean the team doesn't stand a chance against the Mountain Leaders.

Momiji

That's not true! Us cheerleaders need to stick together and... well, cheer them on!

Sannyo

Hahaha, you really don't get it, do you? It's actually quite adorable―

Sannyo

―Just how naive you are.

???

We can't do this alone.

???

We need...

???

...help.

In the L^11 Universe, in the Human Village...

Reimu

What's up, PLAYER?

I think Koishi just tried to tell me something...

But I don't see her anymore.

Reimu

You saw Koishi? Meh, I guess that's not such a surprise.

Reimu

For now, we need to go and investigate Myouren Temple and the Divine Spirit Mausoleum.

Sanae

Yep, let's go! This Gensokyo's behind the times, but a new breeze is about to blow in and change that!

Mamizou

What's all this fuss about? Is there trouble again?

Hi, Miss Mamizou!

Again, huh? I guess you mean Ichirin and Tojiko.

Mamizou

I certainly do. They were going around the village saying they wanted to save people.

Mamizou

I was trying to find out what they're really up to, but I suppose I'll leave all that to the Hakurei shrine maiden.

Reimu

Uh-huh. There's nothing to worry about anymore. Feel free to put on a rakugo performance or two.

Mamizou

Hoh hoh hoh. I am known to do that from time to time.

Sanae

So you're a comedian?! Sometimes, a bit of slapstick comedy is all it takes to usher in a new cultural era!

Mamizou

I don't know about that, but slapstick humor really does get the crowd going.

Mamizou

By the way... you're not from another world, are you?

Sanae

Yep! And this world's super behind the times compared to mine. I'm Sanae, and as you can see, my style's on point!

Sanae

Heh heh, I can tell you some jokes from the future if you like!

Mamizou

Hoh hoh, future jokes, heh?

Sanae

We haven't got time for that! Besides, I know them all, too!

Sanae

If you tell them to Miss Mamizou, it won't be long before every tanuki in Gensokyo hears them!

Sanae

Fine by me! After all, sharing is caring!

Sanae

Urgh, I need to find a way to get them off this topic!

Sanae

Umm, umm... Say, Miss Mamizou, is that yashouma?!

Mamizou

Yep. They're giving it away at Myouren Temple.

Sanae

They are?! I love yashouma! It feels like a taste of spring!

Sanae

It must've been you that brought yashouma to this world, right, me?!

Sanae

Oh, uhh... yeah, it might've been.

Sanae

Wayda go! So you ARE taking your missionary work seriously!

Mamizou

I'm guessing people in your world are free to express themselves however they choose.

Mamizou

Which must mean our Sanae is holding herself back.

Mamizou

Whaddya reckon, Sanae? Is the parallel-world you more authentic?!

Sanae

No way! I-I mean, sometimes I think things I don't say... but I'm still happy being me!

Mamizou

Hoh hoh! I sure hope that's the truth.

Sanae

C'mon, other me, let's get a move on!

Sanae

What?! But I thought the plan was to get Miss Mamizou to spread the word about me and my jokes!

Sanae

When was that ever the plan?! Let's go already!

Mamizou

Say hi to everyone at Myouren Temple for me!

Mamizou

And thank 'em for helping all my little tanuki.

???

□□□□□□...

???

Hang on. I'm coming back.

???

And I'll bring someone who can help you...

Reimu

...So, what exactly was weird about Myouren Temple?

Aunn

I dunno, everyone there just seemed desperate to save people. Like, really desperate.

Reimu

I mean, they've kinda always been like that, no?

Aunn

Really? I feel like they weren't so proactive before...

Reimu

Ah, I guess you're right. They were just happy to welcome whoever showed up.

Reimu

Any idea why they're acting different?

Aunn

No, not yet...

Reimu

Hmm, I've got a bad feeling about this.

Reimu

Hey, Sanaes. Will you go on ahead and check out the Divine Spirit Mausoleum for us?

Sanae

I sure will! I'll figure out what's going on there in no time!

Sanae

W-Wait up! She was talking to both of us!

Sanae

Don't forget to get us some yashouma!

Reimu

OK, OK, just go. I have no idea which Sanae that was...

Kyouko

Good morning! Have you come to listen to a lecture?

Reimu

No, we came to give one. Where's Byakuren?

Kyouko

Are you... going to lecture her?! How dare you!

Reimu

We came here to talk to Byakuren, not lecture her.

Kyouko

Well, why didn't you say so?

Kyouko

She's over there.

Reimu, look...

It's Miss Ichirin and Miss Byakuren!

Reimu

Looks like they're talking about something. Let's listen in.

Ichirin

I told everyone in the village that it's us who'll save more of them!

Byakuren

Good work, Ichirin.

Ichirin

Th-Thank you!

Ichirin

I still can't believe I've got to spend this much time with you. Even talking to you now, me and Unzan feel truly blessed!

Byakuren

You're too kind. I'm always here, open to chat with anyone.

Ichirin

That's right. You and Myouren Temple are right here.

Ichirin

But like I told you, in my world...

Byakuren

Don't worry, Ichirin. Salvation is coming for you.

Byakuren

All you have to do is stay positive and keep moving forward. Please, don't give up hope.

Ichirin

O... OK!

Reimu

Feels kinda bad to interrupt them right now...

Sanae

Miss Reeeeimu! Heeeeelp!

Ichirin

Since when have you been here?

Aunn

Oh, uhh...

Byakuren

Don't you know it's rude to eavesdrop?

???

*huff* *huff*

???

Looks like there's no one who can help □□□□□□ here. Better try somewhere else.

???

But where? I suppose anywhere is fine. The further away, the better.

Sanae

Sorry, did I interrupt?

Reimu

Yep...

Byakuren

Looks like you need a lecturing about the evils of eavesdropping.

Reimu

*gulp* Let's, uhh...

Let's what?

Reimu

Get outta here!

Reimu

OK, I think we lost them.

Reimu

What happened, Sanae? I told you to check out the Divine Spirit Mausoleum.

Sanae

Well...

Sanae

From what I heard, Miss Miko should be around here somewhere.

Sanae

Found her! She's at the dango stand!

Sanae

You're right. Let's go talk to her!

Tojiko

Lady Taishi!

Miko

...reputation is... order to...

Tojiko

...not like... If we keep... in words...

Sanae

I can't make out what they're saying.

Sanae

What about you, me?

Sanae

Huh?

Sanae

I'm gone!

Sanae

There you are, me. What am I―I mean what are YOU doing?

Sanae

...You really think so?

Koishi

Yep. You can totally bring people salvation!

Sanae

Yeah, you're right! Hang in there, people, Sanae Kochiya's coming to save you!

Sanae

But first, I need to convince everyone I can save more of them than those other two!

Sanae

Where are you going now?! Wait for meeee!

Reimu

Yikes... So the parallel-world Sanae ran off.

Reimu

It's just one thing after another, huh?

Reimu

Hey, you guys haven't seen Sanae, have you? Not this one, another one.

Miko

Hi, Reimu. And hello again, Sanae.

Sanae

So you noticed me before, huh?

Tojiko

Nothing gets past Lady Taishi.

Sanae

Right. My bad... So, about the other me...

Miko

I haven't seen her.

Sanae

F-For real?

Tojiko

Is that all you wanted to ask? If it was, then leave. We're busy here.

Reimu

Seems like Tojiko's jealous you're talking to us.

Reimu

Not that I care.

Reimu

But I DO care about what's been going on lately.

Reimu

Miko, can you put a stop to all this "saving the villagers" nonsense? They're not happy about it.

Miko

Aren't they? I'm very sorry about that.

Reimu

...Why are you being so reasonable? Surely you were up to something.

Miko

Haha, not at all!

Miko

We simply wanted to prove that we at the Divine Spirit Mausoleum are capable of saving more people.

Reimu

So just like Byakuren, you're gonna deny that you're acting strange?

Miko

Yes, because I'm NOT acting strange. I'm the same as I've ever been.

Miko

Plus―

Reimu

Plus what?

Miko

No, it's nothing.

Miko

Tomorrow, I plan to meet with Byakuren to discuss our parallel world visitors.

Miko

Will you accompany me, Hakurei shrine maiden?

Reimu

Fine. If it'll help get things back to normal.

Miko

Thank you.

Miko

Still, we should be extra careful not to rile anyone up. Tojiko...

Miko

Will you write Myouren Temple a letter stating that we wish to meet?

Tojiko

I'll get right on it.

Reimu

I'll tell Byakuren to write you one in return. That should make things easier for everyone.

Miko

Are you sure?

Reimu

I don't mind being a messenger girl if it'll keep things from getting worse.

Miko

I'm in your debt.

Reimu

I hope they work everything out...

Sanae

Me, too. But... we still haven't found the other me.

Reimu

You're right. And every minute we don't find her is another minute she could be causing mayhem...

In the L2.11 Universe, on the Youkai Mountain...

Momiji

Naive?! What's that supposed to mean?

Sannyo

It means that all of the cheerleaders have lost faith in cheering.

Sannyo

And that at this rate, the Mountain Leaders' winning streak won't be ending anytime soon.

Momiji

But we all decided we were gonna do everything we can to stop them!

Sannyo

I don't remember deciding that. After all, I cheer exclusively for the Mountain Leaders.

Sannyo

And naturally, I feed them all the intel I can. But that's not all.

Sannyo

I've been pulling strings to ensure their victory at each competition.

Sannyo

At the last one, I secretly added weights to the other teams' balls.

Momiji

That's, like, the most against-the-rules thing I've ever heard!

Sannyo

Perhaps. But it's all in service of the Mountain Leaders' success.

Momiji

I-I don't believe what I'm hearing!

Aunn

You don't think someone's fixing the matches, do you?! It wouldn't be the first time!

Momiji

So Aunn was right?! You know it's me who's gonna have to clean up this mess when it all falls apart, right?!

Sannyo

As if I care. I'm simply focused on the task at hand.

Nemuno

So you've been trickin' us this whole time?

Sannyo

I've been doing no such thing. Not once have I claimed to be your ally.

Nemuno

Yeah, but you sure been actin' like one!

Aya

"Violent Tremors on the Youkai Mountain! Yamanba and Yamajorou Face Off!"

Biten

A crow tengu spy!

Aya

I'm no spy. Just a lowly sports journalist. That said, the Mountain Leaders are my home team.

Aya

I always do whatever I can to help them. We both do, don't we, Miss Sannyo?

Momiji

You knew all along?!

Aya

Maybe I did, maybe I didn't.

Aya

But, Miss Sannyo, why did you decide to come clean to all the other cheerleaders?

Sannyo

I figured we could make the big race the last sports festival, and, well, I felt sorry for them all.

Sannyo

See you on race day, ladies.

Aya

If this is gonna be the last festival, I need to write a full feature! Gotta find people to interview...!

Shion

So, uhh, what's been going on?

Hina

It seems there was a traitor in our midst...

Kutaka

A traitor?! Is that why the Mountain Leaders have been winning so much?!

Shion

It's super hard to beat cheaters... We really don't stand a chance.

Kutaka

Well, this sucks.

Nemuno

Just listen to yourselves. Givin' up so easily.

Miss Nemuno?

Nemuno

Normally, I wouldn't help such a sorry lot.

Nemuno

On the mountain, it's survival of the fittest. The strong feast on the weak.

Nemuno

Helpin' the weak by handicappin' the strong ain't no way to go about things if you ask me.

Nemuno

That's why I haven't been helpin' you.

Nemuno

But.

Nemuno

It looks to me like all ya need is some confidence. And I know just 'ow to give it to you!

Nemuno

Don't give up! Don't give up!

Miss Nemuno's finally a cheerleader!

Momiji

She's right! The race hasn't even started yet and we're acting like it's all over!

Momiji

You can do it! You can do it!

Kutaka

Y-You guys!

You can do it! You can do it!

Kyouko

You too, PLAYER?!

Biten

Now I'm starting to think we really CAN do it!

Kutaka

There's only one way to find out!

Biten

I haven't run around on the mountain like this in forever. Feels kinda nice.

Kutaka

Miss Biten springs up the hill like it's nothing! Chasing after her is a nightmare!

Kyouko

A total nightmare!

Komachi

That's it, Kutaka! Don't give up!

Kogasa

Keep going, Kyouko!

Momiji

You can do it! You can do it!

Shion

*pant* *pant*

Hina

Don't get left behind, Shion!

Shion

*wheeze* *wheeze* I can't take... another... step...

Hina

Sure you can, Shion!

Hina

I know you. And that means I know you NEVER give up!

Shion

D-Don't I?

Hina

C'mon, Shion, do it for the team!

Momiji

Nice cheering, Miss Hina! I'll give you a hand!

Hina

Let's cheer her all the way to the end! But if we're really serious...

Hina

We should have a battle of bullets!

Shion

Umm, why?!

Shion

I-I ran all the way to the finish line!

Momiji

Wayda go, Miss Shion!

Great job!

Shion

It was all thanks to your cheering!

Nemuno

I brought you guys some okonomiyaki cheer bento boxes packed with meat and veggies.

Shion

Yippee, food!

Kogasa

This is way better than anything I get to eat at the temple!

Nemuno

Come to think of it, it feels weird calling you guys "you guys." How 'bout you decide on a team name or somethin'?

Hina

That's a great idea. Runners, got any ideas?

Biten

Heh heh. As it happens, I do.

Biten

The Moon-Grabbing Monkeys!

Kutaka

Not bad. But how about the Seraphic Runners?

Kyouko

The 100mph Maidens?

Shion

Hmm... Best I've got is the Success Chasers.

Nemuno

Huh... That last one isn't so bad.

Shion

It isn't?

Kogasa

All we've done is lose, so now we're CHASING after our first win!

Biten

The Success Chasers it is!

Shion

I just said the first thing that came to mind...!

Aya

Hmm, you guys are really starting to come together.

Momiji

Miss Aya?! What are you doing here?

Aya

Just making some notes about your practice session.

Momiji

Well, how about you write this down? The Success Chasers are gonna win the big race!

Aya

Pah! Looks like you'll barely be able to finish the race, let alone win it.

Momiji

You wish! We're gonna cheer them all the way to first place.

Aya

You got spirit, I'll give you that. But the Mountain Leaders are too quick, even with all your cheering.

Aya

But anyway, I think I've got all the info I need here.

Aya

Give it your all on race day. That way, it'll make for a better article!

Momiji

Enjoy yourself while you can, Aya.

Momiji

You won't be smiling when the Success Chasers prove they're the fastest team in Gensokyo!

???

I've been searching for so long.

???

I wonder how far I've walked.

???

Like, really, really far I bet. I've tried my absolute best.

In the L^11 Universe, a few days after Reimu delivered Miko's letter to Myouren Temple...

Reimu

Looks like we're all here.

I-Is it me, or are things kinda tense?

Miss Tojiko, Miss Ichirin... are you having a stare-off?!

Ichirin

Don't worry, this is just between me and her.

Tojiko

Surprised you had the courage to show up. Feeling like a big girl with your oversized nyuudou by your side, huh?

Miko

What's gotten into you, Tojiko? You're not normally this antagonistic.

Miko

We're here to talk, remember?

Byakuren

You'd do well to remember that, too, Ichirin. There's no need for bravado here.

Ichirin

Oh yes, there is. How dare they send us a letter like that and expect to get away with it!

Byakuren

What do you mean?

Tojiko

You're mad about our letter?! What about YOUR letter?!

Miko

Tojiko, calm down!

Koishi

Look, they both have two letters.

Miss Tojiko has one from Myouren Temple.

And Miss Ichirin has one from the mausoleum.

But who are the other ones from?

Miko

Tojiko, where did you get that second letter?

Byakuren

Would you mind reading your letters out loud, Ichirin?

Tojiko

"Everyone at the Divine Spirit Mausoleum should just keep training in your dojo. We're gonna save the most people!"

Ichirin

"We at the Divine Spirit Mausoleum are gonna save the most people. So just give up now!"

Ichirin & Tojiko

"I'm on top of all the latest trends. That's why I'm gonna save the most people!"

Ichirin & Tojiko

"From Sanae Kochiya."

Sanae

Sounds like a three-way battle is about to kick off!

Sanae

Look, there I am!

Sanae

Why have you been sending letters?! No one asked you to do that!

Ichirin

Let's settle this once and for all, Tojiko!

Tojiko

If it's a fight you want, it's a fight you'll get!

Sanae

Neither of you stand a chance against me!

???

Oooh, a pinecone.

???

And a fairy!

???

Hey, what's the big idea? You wanna dance? All right, let's dance!

Ichirin

M-Miss Reimu?!

Reimu

I'm sick of you people ignoring me. Why do you think I bothered to show up?!

Sanae

No fair, Miss Reimu!

Tojiko

How could I let myself be defeated?! I'll never save the most people like this!

Reimu

You really won't shut up about that, huh? It's like you're possessed or something.

Reimu

Saving people is all well and good, but don't go overboard. Got that?

Reimu

Byakuren, Miko, I'm talking to you, too.

Byakuren

Huh... I can't seem to remember why I was so obsessed with saving people.

Byakuren

My apologies. I'll keep Ichirin under control.

Miko

I'm sorry, too. Things got a little out of hand. I'll tell Tojiko to dial it back a notch.

Reimu

That's all I needed to hear!

Reimu

Meeting adjourned!

Koishi

Don't listen to her. You can still save so many people! After all, you're so very powerful.

Tojiko

Yeah... Yeah, you're right! I'll save 'em! The people AND her!

Koishi

Isn't it a little soon to give up? This is when you need to fight!

Ichirin

Y-Yeah! I'll save them. I'll save them all!

Koishi

Surely you have the power to save them.

Sanae

I do! I absolutely do!

Sanae

Whoa! I feel the POWER!

Sanae

I'll save anyone that needs saving! Hang on, villagers, here I come! Chaaaaaarge!

Sanae

G-Get back here! And no charging!

Sanae?!

What's gotten into her?!

Ichirin

Wh-What am I still doing here?!

Tojiko

We're the ones who'll save the most people!

Byakuren

Ichirin, wait!

Ichirin

Don't worry! Just sit back and watch as we save everyone!

Reimu

I won the battle of bullets, but nothing's changed...

Reimu

Hey, Koishi. You're still here, right?

Koishi

Yep. I've been here the whole time.

Reimu

You did something to get Ichirin, Tojiko, and Sanae fired up like that, didn't you?

Koishi

Oh, uhh, maybe... I think so!

Reimu

I'll take that as a yes. What's the point of manipulating them? What's your plan?

Koishi

*giggle* I don't have a plan! And I'm not manipulating them!

Koishi

*more giggling*

Reimu

Hey, wait!

Miko

Seems like that Koishi's from another world, too. But she's still just as detached from any sense of self.

Reimu

Enough with the psychoanalysis. We gotta find her! She's the one behind all this. She has to be!

Miko

And how do you propose we "find her"?

Reimu

I dunno... Can't you use your ability?

Miko

I can listen to ten conversations at once, but the voice of someone without desire is impossible for me to detect.

Reimu

*sigh* Fine. I suppose that means we should focus on stopping the other three first.

Byakuren

I agree. Let's stop them before this situation gets any worse.

Reimu

So we're all working together on this one? Good. Let's head for the Human Village.

???

Wait... Why am I here, again?

???

Oh no! I forgot what I was doing.

???

And I don't know how to get home!

Ichirin

Hey, you! Lost youkai! You can't wander in and out of the Human Village as you please!

Ichirin

But if you're on your way to Myouren Temple, then that's OK! I'll get you there faster if you like. C'mon, grab hold of Unzan!

Tojiko

Excuse me. You seem like your troubles are weighing you down...

Tojiko

...You don't have any troubles? Sure you do. And the help you seek can be found at the Divine Spirit Mausoleum!

Sanae

Hey, you lot! Looks like you're having trouble keeping up with the latest trends!

Sanae

Fear not, I'll get you up to speed!

Passersby

What's all this?

Passersby

Oh, it's the Moriya shrine maiden. Let's give her a listen!

Sanae

Nooo! Don't do that!

Passersby

It's another Moriya shrine maiden...!

Passersby

Eek! This has gotta be one of those fox or tanuki tricks!

Sanae

This is no youkai trick. It's a miracle! The work of a divine being!

Reimu

We came as soon as we could, but things are already out of control!

Yep, and everyone's split up around the village...

How are we gonna get them all in one place?

Reimu

Simple. C'mere, PLAYER, I'll whisper it to you.

Reimu

What do you think? Pretty clever, right?

It feels a little dishonest...

But it's definitely clever!

Reimu

No holding back, all right? On the count of three, let it rip. One... Two... Three!

Reimu

Ahhh, heeeeeelp!

HEEEEEELP!

Sanae, Ichirin & Tojiko

Is someone in trouble?!

Reimu

They took the bait!

Miko

I'm glad you want to be of service to me, Tojiko, but you mustn't get carried away.

Tojiko

O-OK... I'm sorry. I just wanted to do all I could.

Koishi

Help, help! ...HEEEEELP!

Ichirin

Someone needs help! I-I gotta go find them!

Koishi

That's right. But hurry.

Reimu

Cut that out.

Reimu

I finally caught you.

Koishi

Oops. I give up. I give uuuup.

Reimu

I knew something was off this whole time. You're the reason they've been acting like this, aren't you?

Koishi

I, uhh... I don't think so.

Reimu

Tell us what you're up to already.

Koishi

I'm not up to anything. I just wanted their help.

Reimu

With what?

Koishi

Not sure. But I KNOW I wanted it. I can't explain it any better than that.

Koishi

Maybe that's why...

Koishi

No one was helping me.

Koishi

So I had to look for someone who would!

Reimu

That doesn't make any sense... Why don't you start by telling us what you need help with?

Koishi

I don't know! That's what I need help with!

Reimu

That makes EVEN LESS sense!

Koishi

I don't care! Just help me already!

So you can't remember the problem...

That sounds really tough.

We'll help you... as soon as we figure out how.

Meanwhile, in the L2.11 Universe, on the Youkai Mountain...

Aya

It's finally here. The day of the Youkai Mountain Relay Race.

Momiji

This is it, guys! Th-There are even more people here than I imagined!

Momiji

I hope I don't forget our cheer routine!

Don't worry, Momiji. We practiced so many times.

Let's just do our best!

Nemuno

PLAYER's right. Worrying'll do you no good today.

Nemuno

You gotta get locked in! Can you do that?!

Cheerleaders

Yeah!

Aya

Welcome to race day on the Youkai Mountain. As always, your commentators will be me, Aya Shameimaru―

Hatate

And me, Hatate Himekaidou.

Aya

Let's take a quick look at today's course. It starts here at the aerial tramway.

Hatate

Then it's down to the foot of the mountain and along the Road of Reconsideration.

Hatate

Finally, the course loops around the mountain before finishing back up here. First team to arrive with their sash wins.

Aya

Now, let's take a look at the runners who'll be taking part in this grueling race.

Aya

First up, it's the Success Chasers!

Aya

None of them have ever won an event, so they're clearly the underdogs. But that just means they've got nothing to lose!

Hatate

Gotta say, I would never have predicted those four coming together to form a team.

Aya

Oh, and here we have their dedicated cheerleaders.

Hatate

We don't have to introduce them, though, right? ...Wait, is that Momiji?

Aya

It is indeed. She was once a fine athlete herself. It'll be interesting to see how she performs as a cheerleader.

Hatate

The world really is full of surprises. I better get my camera ready.

Aya

Moving on to our second team! You know and love them! Here to continue their undefeated streak...

Aya

It's the Mountain Leaders!

Hatate

There are some unusual faces on this team, too.

Aya

Will the Mountain Leaders add another win to their tally, or will the Success Chasers finally bring them down?

Yuugi

So you're running the first leg of the race against me, huh?

Shion

Wait, aren't you that oni from the Underworld?

Yuugi

I planned to come up here and casually cheer the runners on, but I heard this is gonna be a serious race.

Yuugi

I've been looking forward to this. Don't expect me to hold back, OK?

Shion

What a coincidence. I only wanted to be a cheerleader at first, too. Good luck out there.

Momiji

I-I don't believe it! Miss Shion doesn't seem fazed by Miss Yuugi whatsoever!

Hina

Yep, she really is amazing!

Nemuno

There was a reason we put her first.

Hina

The first leg of a relay race is always extra nerve-wracking.

Hina

You have to set the pace for the entire race, not to mention the crowd is always huge at the start line.

Nemuno

But our Shion is fearless! She don't bend or break no matter what she's up against!

Shion

Achoo.

Yuugi

Hey, are you all right there? The race hasn't even started yet.

Momiji

I-I'm so hyped up... And I'm not even in the race!

Nemuno

Well, it's time to share that feeling with Shion. Let's cheer 'er on at the start, then head to our positions.

Momiji

Shion! Shion! She can do it!

Aya

And the first-leg runners are off! With leaves floating down around them on the Youkai Mountain, away they go!

Hatate

The sashes have been passed to the second-leg runners!

Shion

*wheeze* *wheeze* I can't breathe...

Yuugi

I didn't expect you to keep up with me like that. Wanna have a battle of bullets?

Shion

How am I s'posed to battle when I can't even breathe?!

Aya

Our next runners are Biten and Enoko. Wait, what are they―

Biten

Hrmm.

Enoko

Hrmmmmm.

Enoko & Biten

IT'S ON!

Nemuno

Let's go, Biten, let's go! It's the final stretch! Give it everythin' you got!

Momiji

Biten! Biten! Keep on fight-en!

Momiji

Did anyone hear that smashing sound? ...Actually, forget about it. I gotta focus on cheering!

Biten

*pant* *pant* Y-You're pretty quick...

Enoko

*gasp* *gasp* So are you...!

Enoko

I was so focused on running that I didn't get to use any of my traps.

Sannyo

Right, I better get started.

Sannyo

They gave it a good shot, but the Success Chasers are about to go bust. The third leg is about to start...

Sannyo

And that's where I'll be cheering!

Sannyo

Nazrin! Nazrin! Run, run, run!

Nazrin

Whoa, I'm suddenly full of energy! Here I gooooo!

Kutaka

She's so quick! I'm gonna lose sight of her!

Kutaka

I gotta get a move on...

Kutaka

Eeeeek! What was that?!

Enoko

*gasp* *gasp* Heh heh, Miss Sannyo gave me permission for this.

Enoko

All my traps are ready to be sprung! Just listen to those gears turning!

Momiji

T-Traps?! Surely that's against the rules! Where's a referee when you need one?!

Nemuno

That's not all. Sannyo's using her ability!

Nemuno

So this is how the Mountain Leaders have been winning every time.

Momiji

Wh-What do we do, Miss Nemuno?!

Nemuno

It's 'er job to make sure events like this are fair for everyone!

Nemuno

But if she's playing dirty, then so will we!

Nemuno

I'm making this area my territory, and I won't allow no rule breakin'!

Sannyo

My ability... What's happening?! Nemuno...!

Enoko

Huh? ...Huuuuuuuh? My traps aren't springing!

Sannyo

She isn't even allowing traps?!

Sannyo

Hehehe. Things are starting to get interesting!

Sannyo

If she thinks this is enough to stop me, she's dead wrong! After all, I'm a cheerleader! If my ability's not working...

Sannyo

Then I'll just have to cheer my heart out!

Sannyo

Nazrin! Nazrin! Who's gonna win?! ...NAZRIN!

Nemuno

Everything's back on a level playin' field! It's time to give it our all!

Momiji

Y-Yeah, but... I don't see Miss Kutaka anywhere.

Kutaka

*pant* *pant*

Kutaka

Huh? This doesn't look like part of the course...

Kutaka

Am I lost?!

Aya

Oops! It looks like one of the Success Chasers has lost her way!

Hatate

It was a close race, but Nazrin's about to make her way onto the Road of Reconsideration!

Kutaka

Oh no, oh no, oh no!

Komachi

...taka! Ku...! Over... 'er!

Kutaka

I can hear a voice coming from this way!

Komachi

Kutaka! Kutaka! Overtake 'er!

Kutaka

It was Miss Komachi!

Kutaka

Her cheering saved me! I finally found the Road of Reconsideration!

Nazrin

*wheeze* *wheeze* H-How did you catch up to me?!

Kutaka

Get ready to be overtaken!

Aya

The sashes have been carried through the forest―

Aya

And along the Road of Reconsideration!

Aya

Now they're with the final runners!

Aya

We're just moments away from the end of the race here at the aerial tramway!

Hatate

It all comes down to the anchors! And it's the ice fairy, Cirno, coming around the final bend in the lead!

Aya

But Kyouko's just behind her! This race isn't over yet!

Eternity Larva

C'mon, Cirno! Faster, faster!

Nemuno

Kyouko! Kyouko! Ain't no slow-ko!

Sannyo

G-Get a move on, Cirno! You can do it! You can do it!

Three Fairies of Light

Let's go, Cirno, let's go! Time to prove you're the strongest!

Cirno

*wheeze* *wheeze* D-Did someone say... the strongest?! I'm coming for you, finish liiiiiiine!

Ichirin

Just a little further, Kyouko! Go, go, go!

Nue

This race is yours, Kyouko! If you win, Byakuren said she'll give you some of her most delicious sweets!

Minamitsu

Push through the pain! You got this!

Kyouko

*pant* *pant*

Kyouko

Must... keep... going! Must... win... race!

Kogasa

Go, Kyoukoooo! Go, go, koooo!

Hatate

And it's all over!

Aya

What a finish! Who could have predicted this?!

Aya

The Success Chasers win!

Momiji

W-We won?!

Nemuno

Yep! Kyouko beat Cirno across the finish line by a hair!

Momiji

A-All right!

Aya

What a surprising outcome. The final runners were neck and neck...

Aya

But something drove Kyouko on. Was it the strength left in her legs? Her unfaltering spirit? Or the passionate cheering?

Hatate

All that's certain is that the Success Chasers will be all over the front page of tomorrow's newspaper!

Aya

Let's give a huge round of applause to the victorious runners and their loyal cheerleaders!

Hina

I knew you could do it, Shion!

Shion

Heh heh. With all the yummy food and compliments, I had a blast from start to finish.

Yuugi

That was some race, huh?

Parsee

You could've won it if you tried. But no, you wanted to compete on an "even playing field"...

Yamame

Haha, classic Yuugi.

Biten

Well, I'd say we're no closer to deciding which one of us is better. But I'll beat you next time for sure!

Enoko

In your dreams! Smile while you can, 'cause that's the last win you're ever gonna get!

Biten

Not likely! But, uhh... go easy on the traps next time, would you?

Enoko

Haha, sure thing.

Momiji

It seems like the sports festivals ended up bringing everyone closer together.

Momiji

Which brings us to...

Nemuno

We figured out why the Mountain Leaders were winnin' so much. They won't get away with it again.

Sannyo

It certainly doesn't seem like it.

Nemuno

What were you doin' it for anyway?

Sannyo

Pah! Hahaha! You're really asking me straight like that?!

Sannyo

During our practice sessions, the crow tengu reporters kept showing up. This is what I told them...

Sannyo

Cheerleaders have a big sway on who emerges victorious.

Nemuno

What's that got to do with anythin'?

Sannyo

A cheerleader's real job is to fine-tune a team's training program, but with back-to-back events, we couldn't do that.

Sannyo

I wanted to make sure there were at least a few days in between to give us a chance to shine.

Nemuno

The sports festivals took on the role of "extraordinary days."

Nemuno

But if every day is extraordinary, then no day is. Especially if the same team wins every time.

Nemuno

It's all starting to make sense...

Sannyo

With any luck, from now on, there'll be gaps between festivals, allowing them to be truly extraordinary once more.

Sannyo

And I intend to cheer at all of them.

Nemuno

Well, if you've had a change o' heart, you're welcome to be one of us again.

Momiji

With the truth revealed about the Mountain Leaders' winning streak, it sounds like I have nothing to worry about.

Momiji

Which means there's just one thing left to do...

Aya

Hey, Momiji. You done celebrating already?

Momiji

Miss Aya. Just the crow tengu I was looking for.

Momiji

I told you we'd win! Bet you feel pretty dumb for not interviewing us properly now!

Momiji

You suck!

Momiji

And we rule!

Momiji

Well? Got anything to say?

Aya

Congrats on the win, Momiji. You all really earned it.

Aya

Sorry, but I've got runners to interview. We see each other all the time, so your interview can wait. See ya!

Momiji

Wh-What was that?! She didn't seem upset at all!

Momiji

This isn't how it was s'posed to go!

???

No one helped me.

???

No one could.

???

I couldn't remember what I need help with.

???

And I still can't...

In the L^11 Universe, in the Human Village...

Koishi

I tried really, really hard and went on a huuuge adventure!

Koishi

That's how I ended up here.

Reimu

I get that, but how are we s'posed to help you if you don't know the problem?!

Koishi

I dunno! That's why I'm looking for someone to help me figure out the problem!

Reimu

Then you're done for, 'cause that's impossible!

Koishi

Hmph!

Koishi

Hey, you two look pretty powerful!

Koishi

You'll help me, won't you? Won't you?!

Miko

Sorry, but I can't make out what it is you want.

Miko

The voices of those without desire don't reach my ears.

Byakuren

I hate to see a youkai in need, but I simply don't know how to help you.

Koishi

No way!

Reimu

I feel bad for Koishi, but it seems like there's nothing we can do for her.

Byakuren

Let's put our heads together and have a think.

Miko

Wait, shouldn't we prioritize the safety of the villagers? At least we know we can help them.

Miko

We also don't know the scope of Koishi's ability. Until we find a way to get her home, we should isolate her.

Byakuren

Isolate her?! If we can't help her, the least we can do is let her roam free!

Sanae

Don't worry, I'll save her! That's right, me―Sanae Kochiya!

Sanae

Yeah, yeah, very good. Just try and keep your mouth shut.

Koishi

I know! I'll get the strongest person here to help me!

Ichirin

Very well. That means I'll be the one to save her!

Tojiko

Pah, don't make me laugh. I'LL be the one doing the saving!

Sanae

Me too, me too!

Reimu

Stop arguing! Just leave this to me.

Ichirin

Stay out of this, shrine maiden. You had your chance and you blew it!

Tojiko

Yeah! So why don't you go back to your little shrine and try to come up with a better plan for next time!

Reimu

Sounds like you take your worlds' versions of me for a joke.

Reimu

But you've made a mistake thinking the same about me!

Reimu

Come at me with all you got. We'll see who has the last laugh!

Reimu

Right, that's them dealt with.

Reimu

Byakuren, Miko. You two realize you're also under the influence of Koishi's ability, right?

Reimu

I'm pretty sure the desire to save people is being forced into your subconsciouses.

Miko

Us? No, that can't be―

Miko

Back then, I felt like saving people, but... Oh. It's all starting to make sense.

Miko

I've been dancing to Koishi's tune this whole time.

Koishi

OK, you were the strongest, PLAYER! You get to help me!

B-But how?!

Reimu

Sorry, Koishi, but none of us can help you.

Reimu

There's no way I can figure out what a youkai from another world wants.

Koishi

Sounds like you don't wanna try.

Reimu

Of course I do. But there's nothing I can do for you.

Reimu

If someone fell over, I'd help them get up. If a youkai was injured, I'd help them recover.

Reimu

But what you're asking... is impossible.

Koishi

You suck! At least the others TRIED to help me!

Koishi

You're really not even gonna do that?!

Reimu

...No. People sometimes call Hakurei Shrine a "youkai shrine."

Reimu

We don't help youkai like Myouren Temple does. We don't help humans like the Divine Spirit Mausoleum does.

Reimu

And we don't abandon our principles to amass followers like Moriya Shrine does.

Reimu

So if you're a youkai from another world causing trouble, I have no reason not to punish you.

Koishi

You're gonna punish me?! All I did was ask for help!

Reimu

I know.

Reimu

If you want to tell me your story, I'll listen.

Koishi

My story?

Reimu

That's right, your story. The best I can do for you is to listen to it all from start to finish.

Koishi

But I don't need you to listen. I need you to help!

Koishi

Aww, I lost.

Koishi

I figured with so many people from parallel worlds, one of them would be able to help me.

Reimu

So that's why you roped Ichirin, Tojiko, and Sanae into this.

Koishi

Things were going well at the start, but I'm still no closer to getting any help.

Reimu

Why don't you just keep trying?

Koishi

Easy for you to say!

Koishi

It was tough getting this far. I walked, like, a thousand miles, and explored some really dangerous places.

Koishi

That's why I'm so desperate for help!

Reimu

Wow, I had no idea.

Koishi

Somehow, I forgot.

Koishi

Just like how I forgot what I found next to the pinecone.

Reimu

Right...

Koishi

All I know is I'm sad. Like, really sad. But I don't remember why...

Reimu

You gave it your all to get this far, didn't you, Koishi?

Koishi

Yeah... I did.

Ichirin

Whoa, what happened? I feel more relaxed all of a sudden...

Tojiko

Me too. Like the weight that's been on me was lifted... Why was I so desperate to help people?

So... are you back to normal now?

But how? Reimu didn't do anything...

Miko

It may not have looked like it, but I think she saved us.

Byakuren

...Indeed. Miss Reimu did it.

Sanae

I feel like myself again... And I can finally see the truth.

Sanae

I need to spread the latest trends in this world!

Sanae

So, uhh... I think I still need a little more help.

Tojiko

So we're never gonna know why Koishi did all this?

Ichirin

Seeing the lengths she went to for help, it must have been something really important...

Ichirin

But so long as she can't remember what it was, there's nothing we can do.

Tojiko

Hmm... How do you help someone with an unknown problem?

Ichirin

We helped this world's humans and youkai in all kinds of ways...

Ichirin

But only Miss Reimu was able to help Koishi.

Tojiko

I hate to admit it, but this is a win for her.

Ichirin

Yep...

Ichirin

She was the only one to realize that the way to help Koishi was simply to give her a shoulder to cry on.

Tojiko

So that's how she did it, huh? I never would've guessed...

Koishi

I've got all kinds of items for exploring in my bag, you know?!

Reimu

No kidding? I feel like you and Marisa would get along.

Koishi

This is a lamp, this is a pickax... and this is a fishing rod!

Koishi

I caught a really big fish with this once! Like, THIS BIG!

Reimu

Wow, you really are an explorer. Any idea what type of fish it was?

Koishi

Nope. But all this talk of fish is making me hungry.

I have yashouma for everyone!

Here, help yourselves!

Koishi

All right! Show me the yashouma!

Sanae

Wow, nice word play! Are you... on trend?!

Sanae

Now's not the time to interrupt. Especially not to talk about being on trend.

Koishi

I caused a lot of trouble, didn't I?

Reimu

You did. But if you find me something, I'll forgive you.

Koishi

What?!

Reimu

Big red Seal Crystals. You can all use them to get home.

Koishi

What do they look like? I picked up all sorts of things on my way here.

Koishi

I got some pinecones... some leaves... some acorns... some dandelions...

How did all of that fit in your pockets?!

Reimu

Nah, none of them are any good. They're bigger and shinier...

Koishi

Some strange rocks... a crystal skull... a shiny red cube... some four-leaf clovers...

Reimu

No, no, no, and no.

Reimu

...Wait, scrap that. No, no, YES, and no!

Sanae

Wow, a big red Seal Crystal!

Koishi

You want this thing? Sure, take it.

Miko

You can go home now, Tojiko.

Tojiko

Yeah, but that means we have to say goodbye...

Miko

All good things must come to an end, Tojiko from afar. Say hi to your world's version of me.

Tojiko

I will!

Ichirin

Lady Byakuren!

Byakuren

Seems like this is farewell. I'm sure your world's version of me thinks as I do...

Byakuren

Until the time comes, remember what I told you.

Ichirin

You got it! Me and Unzan won't forget a word!

Sanae

The other me is finally going home... It's about time.

Sanae

I'm standing right here! Besides, you gotta admit, you're a little sad to see me go.

Sanae

I, uhh...

Sanae

Only kidding! Catch you later, me―

Sanae

*sob* Now you're making ME sad!

Sanae

If you're ever in this world again, come see me at Moriya Shrine, OK?!

Koishi

Reimu!

Reimu

What?

Koishi

Thanks for everything! You really helped me... I think!

Reimu

Glad to be of service.

Koishi

Next time I see someone in trouble, I'll listen to their story and try to be there for them!

Reimu

I'm surprised to hear that coming from you. Sounds like you've started to understand other people a little better.

Koishi

Byeee!

Yukari

In some ways, supporting people is easy, but in others, it's not.

Yukari

Sometimes, your words fall on deaf ears, other times, things you say in passing can save a person from despair.

Yukari

Kind words from one person can feel hollow, while those same words can feel like salvation if said by another.

Yukari

There's no right way to support people.

Yukari

Welcome back, PLAYER. What did you make of all those on the supporting side?

Well, they sure have to work hard!

But watching them was super heartwarming.

Yukari

Hehe, what a wonderful thing to say.

Are you sure there's no right way to support people?

Yukari

You heard that, did you? No, there's not. But that isn't a bad thing.

Yukari

If you insist on there being a right way, that means all the others ways are wrong.

Yukari

But the desire to encourage or inspire someone is marvelous, don't you think?

Yukari

And in that desire, there can be no right or wrong.

Yukari

Simply knowing that someone is rooting for you is a great source of strength.

...Is it?

Yukari

Don't worry, PLAYER. I'll always be rooting for you!

For real?!

You're right. I feel stronger already!

Yukari

I knew you would. But you must be tired...

Yukari

Feel free to rest your head on my lap!

Don't mind if I do...

Yukari

*pats head* You did great out there, PLAYER.

Yukari

I was cheering for you the whole time. "You can do it! You can do it!" And just like always, you DID do it.

Compliments and head pats... I'm in heaven...

*yawn* I'm gonna close my eyes for a little...

Yukari

Teehee, she fell asleep just like that.

Yukari

Rest well, PLAYER. This interworld festival isn't quite over yet...

Sannyo

You can do it! You can do it!

Nemuno

Nice one, Sannyo. You really are back to being a cheerleader.

Sannyo

I'm going to prove that I don't need to play dirty to secure my team the win.

Momiji

Hehe, Miss Nemuno and Miss Sannyo are practicing together. The cheerleading squad feels complete again!

Nemuno

Hey, Momiji, why'd you stop? This practice session's far from over.

Nemuno

Besides, if any newbies show up, you gotta be ready to teach 'em how to cheer dance.

Momiji

Y-You want me to do that?! ...Are you sure?!

Nemuno

'Course I'm sure. But I'd practice a bit more first if you want 'em to think you're a pro.

Momiji

You got it!

Momiji

You can do it! You can do it!

Momiji

You can... Huh?

Koishi

I...

Koishi

I'm alive!

Ichirin

Nice catch, Unzan!

Momiji

Wh-Who are you?! And why did you just fall out of the sky?!

Sanae

The name's Sanae! ...Where exactly are we?!

Sannyo

I recognize them, but they look a little different from what I'm used to. My guess is they came from parallel worlds.

Nemuno

For real? Never seen any parallel-world folk before.

Momiji

This sounds kinda serious.

Momiji

Hmm, who was I supposed to report to at times like this...?

Tojiko

Looks like we didn't make it home... Why does everything have to be so hard?

Momiji

Eek, lightning! My fur's standing on end!

Whoa, I can feel it from here!

Look, my pompoms are getting electrified!

Koishi

Wow, I've never seen dandelions that big! I want some, too!

Momiji

They're not dandelions, they're pompoms. Cheerleaders use them.

Koishi

What's a... cheerleader?

Nemuno

Take a look 'round and see. All of us here are cheerleaders. We shout and dance to support our favorite teams.

Koishi

Does that actually work?!

Sannyo

It sure does. When we cheer with all our hearts, we're able to give the competitors extra strength.

Koishi

I wanna give someone extra strength!

Koishi

Sign us up. We're gonna be cheerleaders!

Sanae

We are?! ...I mean, WE ARE! We'll show you the best cheer dance you've ever seen!

Sannyo

Well, what do you think?

Nemuno

Hrmm, there ain't no rules 'bout who can and can't be a cheerleader. I say we let 'em join.

Nemuno

It's better than lettin' 'em wander around Gensokyo.

Sannyo

I figured you'd say something like that. Let's keep an eye on them ourselves.

Momiji

So you mean they're gonna be cheerleaders...?

Nemuno

Yep. And I reckon they're gonna need cheer dance lessons from you.

Momiji

But they're from a parallel world! What if they don't respond to my teaching style?!

Momiji

Uhh, OK... I'm gonna teach you our cheer dance routine.

Momiji

For now, just try and do what I do!

Momiji

Let's see here... Arms straight up, raise one leg up to waist height... and shout! You can do it! You can do it!

Sanae

You can do it, Sanae! You can do it, Sanae! Am I doing it right, coach?!

Momiji

C-Coach?!

Momiji

That was good, but you can't shout your own name! Try shouting mine instead for practice!

Sanae

You can do it, Momiji! You can do it, Momiji!

Momiji

It's times like these I'm glad I decided to keep being a cheerleader...

Koishi

Supporting other people is so cool!

Ichirin

...Hm? What's up, Unzan? Are you embarrassed to be a cheerleader?

Tojiko

Hang in there, Unzan. We need more intel if we wanna get home.

Ichirin

Uh-huh, uh-huh... Unzan says he'll give it his best!

Sannyo

Sounds like you guys didn't join us because you wanted to be cheerleaders.

Tojiko

We think it's amazing how you go all out to support people.

Ichirin

Those with power helping those without is the way things should be.

Ichirin

But right now... we just want to get home.

Nemuno

That means you gotta travel between worlds again, right? How'd you plan on doin' that?

Tojiko

With special Seal Crystals. There should be some in this world somewhere.

Tojiko

After all, it was a big red Seal Crystal that transported us here.

Sannyo

Special Seal Crystals, you say?

Ichirin

We were hoping to ask you and all the competitors if they'd seen any...

Ichirin

But the next sports festival hasn't been announced yet.

Sannyo

Your timing couldn't have been worse. Until just recently, there were festivals every day...

Sannyo

But now, for a reason I won't get into, there's only one a month.

Ichirin

Even that's quite a lot, though.

Tojiko

I guess people think differently in parallel worlds.

Koishi

Cheerleaders are awesome. They've all got such a can-do attitude!

Sannyo

You bet we do.

Koishi

But someone supported me just by listening and being there when I needed them. So I was thinking...

Koishi

Which is better? Supporting people like cheerleaders do, or supporting people by being there for them?

Nemuno

Like cheerleaders, o' course. Cheer is literally in our name.

Ichirin

I disagree. Simply standing strong beside someone is a wonderful way to support them.

Koishi

Hmm... It's so hard to decide!

Koishi

Let's all try and support PLAYER and ask her what she thinks!

Wh-Why me?!

I-I didn't expect it to turn into a battle of bullets!

Koishi

Sorry, PLAYER! ...So, which type of support was better?

I honestly don't know!

Nemuno

You parallel-world folk weren't bad, but our cheerin' clearly came out on top.

Ichirin

In your dreams. You wanna settle this with another battle or what?

Umm, this might be a silly question...

But how are battles related to supporting people?

Sannyo

PLAYER makes a good point.

Sannyo

Battles AREN'T related to supporting people.

Ichirin

Fine, no more battles.

Tojiko

How are we gonna decide whose supporting is better then?

Sannyo

We need to pit both methods against each other.

Ichirin

But how?

Sannyo

Don't worry. I've got an idea.

Sannyo

You parallel-world folk think being by someone's side is best. We think cheerleading is best.

Sannyo

To decide who's right...

Sannyo

We need to compete in front of a huge audience.

Sannyo

Get ready for a competition like no other. I call it... the Cheering Saga!

Ichirin

Cheering...

Tojiko

Saga?!

Aya

Hoho, what's this? You guys are gonna have a cheer-off at the next sports festival?!

Momiji

Miss Aya!

Tojiko

With all the sports festivals in this world, I guess it makes sense.

Ichirin

Agreed. Let's settle this with Miss Sannyo's Cheering Saga event!

Sannyo

I'll do what I can to gather as big a crowd as possible. That suits you, too, right?

Aya

I'll spread the news! Boy, I can't wait to see who wins!

Momiji

So... we're really having a cheer-off?!

Sanae

That makes us rivals, coach!

Momiji

But I was having so much fun! I can't believe we have to go up against each other!

Komachi

A cheer-off sounds pretty great, but how's it gonna work?

Nemuno

Apparently, Sannyo's taking care of that. For now, we just gotta keep practicin' our cheer dance.

Nemuno

That includes you lot.

Tojiko

Is that really OK?

Nemuno

'Course it is. We may be rivals, but we barely got done teaching you the basics of cheer dancin'.

Nemuno

We can't have you out there givin' us cheerleaders a bad name.

Momiji

So I'm still their coach! Yippee!

Sanae

Train us up real good, coach!

Momiji

Listen up. Cheerleaders aren't here to do "whatever it takes" to secure their team's victory.

Momiji

We're simply here to support them. Doesn't matter if they're winning or losing, we keep on supporting.

Koishi

I like the sound of that.

Sanae

Your ideals shine brighter than any bullets.

Ichirin

Does it really not matter if our team is winning or losing?

Tojiko

It sounds like our main job is to be there for them.

Koishi

Huh?

Tojiko

Is it me, or is being a cheerleader a lot like Koishi's idea of being there for someone?

Koishi

Yeah... So there was no difference in the first place?

Ichirin

Sounds like there's no need for us to compete anymore. We can call off the Cheering Saga and enjoy the sports festival―

Sannyo

I'm afraid that's not possible. Everything's already in motion.

Nemuno

Oh, you're back, Sannyo.

Sannyo

Yes, just now. Aya's handing out newspapers on her way to discuss the sports festival location with the kappa.

Sanae

Then let's go stop her!

Sannyo

The village is already abuzz with talk of the Cheering Saga. Backing out now will make us look totally lame.

Momiji

Wh-What do we do?!

Sannyo

Hmm... If we're not going to compete, we'll have to think of some other way to entertain everyone.

Momiji

Nice idea, Miss Sannyo! Do you have anything in mind?!

Sannyo

I do. But I'm not going to tell you just yet. That way, you'll have something to look forward to.

Koishi

But I wanna know now...

Aya

The day all of Gensokyo's been waiting for is finally here. A day that will surely go down in cheerleading history!

Aya

It's time for the Cheering Saga!

Aya

The competition will take place in the Kawashiro Floating Stadium!

Aya

Oh, and I'm commentator Aya Shameimaru. Joining me today is―

Hatate

Me, Hatate!

Koishi

And me, Koishi. I'll be judging the competitors.

Aya

This festival is all about two rival cheer squads, but what kind of battle will this turn out to be?

Hatate

Seriously, how are they gonna compete? My script sheet is completely blank.

Koishi

Why don't you draw a pretty picture on it?!

Aya

Even us commentators haven't been clued in on what's about to go down!

Hatate

How are we s'posed to do our jobs?!

Aya

Now, the teams are raring to go, so let's take a look at them.

Aya

First up, it's the Cheer Girls! With their fiery passion, they're ready to support anyone to victory! Plus, they have pompoms!

Hatate

They're the ones who helped put a stop to the Mountain Leaders' streak. They're the real deal. No doubt about it.

Koishi

They defeated the leaders of the Youkai Mountain? Wow!

Aya

Next up, say hello to the New Cheer Girls! Supporting people is about being by their side. Like a rock, silent and sturdy!

Hatate

I feel like I recognize them, but at the same time, I don't... Oh, except for you, Miss Yuugi.

Koishi

Isn't she gonna get told off for bringing all those vengeful spirits with her from Former Hell?

Aya

Let's put a pin in that... The cheerleaders have taken their positions on the court.

Hatate

Yeah, but what are they gonna do next?

Aya

What's this?! The teams have both started cheer dancing!

Aya

I don't believe it! They're cheer dancing toward each other!

Hatate

Are they gonna have a big brawl in the center of the court? At least there'd be a clear winner that way!

Koishi

Fight, fight, fight!

Aya

They slipped past each other! And they're still dancing to the beat!

Koishi

It's... It's... It's a cheer-off!

Aya

A cheer-off? What's that?

Koishi

They're competing by cheering each other on!

Hatate

Wow, I've never heard of anything like that! ...Hang on, when did you get in here?

Koishi

I've been here the whole time! It's me, Koishi, the judge!

Aya

All right, well, we'll leave it to you to choose the winner!

Koishi

You got it! Keep cheering out there, everyone!

Sannyo

It all comes down to this! Ready?!

Momiji

I was born ready!

Tojiko

Let's do this! Have at it!

Ichirin

Unzan says he's about to take things up a notch!

Hatate

The teams have broken out into a battle of bullets!

Aya

This is it. The Cheering Saga's big finale!

Tojiko

Ichirin, get ready to redirect my lightning!

Ichirin

Hear that Unzan? It's our time to shine!

Sanae

*gasp* *gasp* It's over...

Koishi

Wow, what incredible cheer dancing!

Aya

Is that Miss Koishi?!

Hatate

When did she get onto the court? I guess she's gonna announce the winner...

Koishi

I declare this competition...

Koishi

A draw!

Hatate

Whaaaat?! Is that allowed?

Momiji

Of course it's allowed.

Tojiko

This was a cheer-off, remember? We were never competing to see who would win or lose.

Koishi

You guys did some amazing cheering.

Koishi

But that was because of how well you were cheering each other on!

Koishi

Together, you put on an incredible show. And that's why you're both the winners!

Koishi

Which means you both deserve some kinda prize! I wonder if I've got anything good...

Nemuno

Well, this didn't turn out the way I imagined...

Sannyo

Meh, it was Koishi who started all of this. If she says it's a draw, then who are we to argue?

Aya

...So, in a way, this IS cheerleading history!

Hatate

I'd say so. Congratulations to all our winners!

Koishi

I know I have some good prizes in here somewhere. Where are you, where are you?

Yuuka

I only signed up on a whim, but it feels good to stand on the podium.

Yuugi

Wanna battle of bullets?

Yuuka

Hehe, maybe some other time.

I'm so glad both teams won.

This is a happier ending than last time!

Sanae

Last time? ...Oh, yeah. I had a real tough time back then.

Nemuno

When are you talkin' about?

You know, when the Divine Spirit Mausoleum―

―And Myouren Temple were trying to save people!

Sanae

What are you telling me for? I was there, too!

So you were!

(Why was she there, again?)

Tojiko

Wait, PLAYER!

Wh-What's going on?!

Sanae

Yeah, what's the big deal?! If it's our prizes you're after, we haven't got them yet!

Koishi

Hang on, I'm looking for them now!

Tojiko

I don't care about the prizes. PLAYER. How do you know all that?

Ichirin

We were frantically trying to save people. Miss Reimu and PLAYER were there, too.

Ichirin

But...

Ichirin

That was THAT world's PLAYER.

Sanae

You're right... This doesn't make any sense!

Sanae

Wait, maybe I told this PLAYER about it, too...

Aya

Congratulations on the win, everyone! Tell us, how do you feel?!

Sanae

I'm super-duper happy!

Tojiko

Hey, don't interrupt us. We were in the middle of an important conversa―

Koishi

Here are your prizes!

Ichirin

Didn't you hear Tojiko? ...Wait, are they purple Seal Crystals?!

Koishi

Yep, and they're all yours!

Koishi

They all vanished! What do I do, what do I do?!

Koishi

Maybe if I use one, too, I can find them!

Momiji

D-Did they leave just like that?

Nemuno

They sure were a handful.

Momiji

Farewell. It was an honor to call myself your coach...

Sannyo

Nemuno, got any idea what they were talking about before they vanished?

Nemuno

Can't say I do.

Nemuno

Well, the festival's over, and we're all tired. How 'bout I cook us up somethin' to eat?!

Yippee! More cheer bento boxes!

I wonder what they were talking about, though...

Meh, who cares?!

Yukari

"This is a happier ending than last time!" That's definitely what PLAYER said.

Yukari

Strange...

Yukari

How could she know what happened in the other world? ...No, I have more important things to focus on right now.

Yukari

Like checking to see how things are developing.

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Cheering Saga: Race To The Truth

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Cheering Saga: Race To The Truth