Lossy's Journal

Yukari

Are you having fun?!

Yeaaaah!

Woohoo!

Yukari

That's what I wanted to hear, PLAYER.

Yukari

I think it's time for one last song.

Yukari

...Just kidding. That's the end of my little concert.

I wonder what the next world will be like...

Yukari

Hehe, sounds like you're really looking forward to it.

Yukari

This time, you're heading into a world where concerts are held non-stop.

Yukari

It's full of people who live and breathe music.

Yukari

But it seems like not everyone shares their passion.

Yukari

No matter how good a song is, if you listen to it on repeat, you'll get bored. Dancing to different beats is the key.

Yukari

But lately, in this world... Actually, I think it's better if you find out for yourself.

Yukari

I can't wait to see what kind of story will unfold on today's stage.

Yukari

I think I hear the amps being plugged in. Time for you to go and find your own sound.

Yukari

Bye for now, PLAYER.

Bye, Miss Yukari!

In the L2.3 Universe, at the Misty Lake Arena...

Mokou

The show's about to start!

Mokou

Did you get some glow sticks on the way in? We can swap the coins they gave us for drinks later. Oh, and―

I-I'm all set!

Keine

Ease up. You're freaking PLAYER out.

Mokou

Oops. I just wanna make sure everyone has a good time.

Don't worry, I'm sure I will!

Keine

You sure love concerts, Mokou. I bet you're more excited than all the musicians.

Mokou

Can't argue with that. An amazing show at a dazzling venue... Nothing gets me fired up like a concert.

I think it's starting!

Mokou

At last!

Mokou

Yeaaah! This rules!

Woohoo!

Keine

I don't come to big venues like this often... but it's kind of exhilarating.

Mokou

Right? I'm so glad I brought you and PLAYER along.

Mokou

Tonight's act is incredible. EVERYONE in Gensokyo has been talking about them. And soon, you will be, too!

Mokou

These days, there are concert venues all over the place. You can enjoy live music anytime, anywhere.

Mokou

Finding your favorite sound is what really matters. There's all kinds of genres out there. Pop, punk, heavy metal, classical―

Keine

There's no shutting her up when she gets like this.

...

Keine

What's up, PLAYER? Something bothering you?

N-No! I'm fine!

Keine

Hmm, if you say so...

Keine

Wh-What the?! What's that sound?! This can't be part of the performance, right?

Mokou

Tch. Not again.

Mokou

Sorry, you two. I gotta go handle this.

Keine

Hey, Mokou! Don't run off without us!

Wait up!

Keine

Wh-Wh-Wh-Wh...

Keine

What's with all these fairies?!

Keine

It's like no one ever taught them any manners. How did they even get in here?

Fairy No. 1

Yippee! Climb, climb!

Keine

Hey, you can't just hop on the stage like that!

Mokou

Argh, they're everywhere! We've barely made a dent.

Fairy No. 2

Urghhh...

Fairy No. 2

*opens eyes a sliver*

N-Nice fairy.

That's it. Stay down...

Fairy No. 2

*thud*

Mokou

PLAYER, find some cover. It's dangerous here.

Panicked Voice

Eek! Cut it out!

Mokou

Tch. They're damaging the stage! We gotta do something, quick.

Kyouko

We can't perform like this!

Mystia

Ugh, I can't sing with you up here! Get down already!

Mystia

We told you to stay off the stage, remember?! Even if you're fans, if you keep this up, you're getting kicked out!

Kyouko

I don't care if you're having fun. Stay. Off. The. Stage! We told you that in the pre-show announcement.

Youmu

This is even more chaotic than I imagined.

Sakuya

You said it.

Kyouko

Hey, DUALxEDGE! Don't just stand there. Give us a hand!

Mystia

Our rehearsals went so well. But what good is that when we can't perform?

Sakuya

You're right, this has gone too far... Oh.

We're here to help!

Sakuya

Impeccable timing. Help is just what we need.

Youmu

And lots of it. We need to get these fairies under control!

Kyouko

They just keep coming!

Kyouko

Everywhere you look, it's just fairies, fairies, fairies... We're in over our heads.

Youmu

And they're not just on stage―they're spilling into the crowd too. We're out of options.

Mystia

Time to call in backup. Luckily, we have these kappa intercom devices stitched into our outfits...

Mystia

...Hm?

Kutaka

Huh... I'm getting no response from the intercom.

Kogasa

But those things have never glitched before! ...Wait, are the bands just trying to surprise me?

Kutaka

I doubt it. They're not the pranking type.

Kogasa

Weird... We gave intercoms to Mystia and Kyouko from Choujuu Gigaku and to Sakuya and Youmu from DUALxEDGE.

Kutaka

Uh-huh. And I made sure to stitch them in tight so they wouldn't fall off on stage.

Kogasa

The only way they could stop working is if someone literally yanked them off, right?

Kutaka

Yep. But there's no way that happened.

Kyouko

No comms, the stage is wrecked... Guess that's it for our battle of the bands!

Kyouko

And now the crowd's in danger. We gotta call it...

Choujuu Gigaku

The show's canceled, folks!

Mokou

Nooo! We were too slow.

Mokou

This happens EVERY time.

Mokou

How did things get like this?

Mokou

Something always interrupts the concerts. It's like we're cursed...

Mystia

Something's seriously wrong here.

What are you talking about?

Kyouko

Our recent concerts, of course!

Mystia

I bet everyone in Gensokyo's thinking the same thing...

Mystia

When was the last time a concert actually went well?

Kyouko

Beats me. It feels like forever since we made it to the encore.

Sakuya

Now that you mention it, it does feel like that, doesn't it?

Kyouko

Have you seriously JUST realized?

Mystia

Today, we got mobbed by fairies. Last week, all of our equipment was playing up.

Mystia

Rumor has it, other concert venues are having a rough time, too. Gensokyo's music scene is in big trouble.

Youmu

I-It sure is. All I want to do is sing in front of a crowd.

Mystia

This many canceled concerts is NOT normal.

Mystia

Wait, you don't think...?

It couldn't be...

Kyouko & Mystia

We're being targeted?!

Mystia

Ugh, being this popular is a curse! Who knew too much attention could be a bad thing?

Kyouko

We sing, we dance, and we're totally adorable... Maybe our sunshine smiles are just too dazzling for people to handle!

Youmu

...Hold up. That still doesn't explain what's happening at the other concert venues.

Youmu

S-So anyway, what are we going to do about the next show? I'd love to find some way we can actually perform.

Distant Voice

...Yeah, I figured... much.

Another Distant Voice

We gotta... new way to...

Mystia

...Is that who I think it is?

Mystia

I knew it! Hey, you guys!

Kyouko

What's going on―

Kokoro

Shh.

Mystia

...Huh?

Kokoro

Ahem. Here goes.

Yatsuhashi

There's a virus out there, infecting people with boredom. But, don't worry, we're the anti-virus software!

Yatsuhashi

I'm Yatsuhashi Tsukumo, coming to defrag your heart with a mesmerizing melody!

Merlin

Bold and fearless, we'll play the chords of love! Get ready for the ultimate performance!

Merlin

I'm Merlin Prismriver, here to hack your memory with music magic!

Kokoro

Welcome to our super cyber world. We'll fix those pesky errors in your soul.

Kokoro

I'm Hata no Kokoro, softlocking all eyes on me.

Merlin

All together, we're...

E'MOTE

E'MOTE!

Kokoro

Heh, nailed it. *peace sign*

So cute!

So cool!

Yatsuhashi

Hehe, pulling an all-nighter to come up with those lines was totally worth it.

???

Ahem. What are you doing out this late, PLAYER? Don't you know it's dangerous?

Raiko

Oh, everyone's here with you, PLAYER. Did you finish your concert?

Mystia

I wish! We didn't even get to play any songs!

Raiko

Yikes. You too, huh?

I take it your concert went badly as well, then...

Kokoro

Yep. We had to cancel.

Lyrica

The audio equipment never arrived. And by the time we figured out a solution, all the hype had fizzled out.

Lyrica

It was supposed to be a joint concert with LaBoSta and E'MOTE.

Wait, who was in LaBoSta, again?

Raiko

Me and Lyrica. Cool band name, right?!

Sakuya

So everyone's having a hard time putting on a show, huh?

Merlin

Urgh, and we had the instruments tuned perfectly... Canceling concerts over stuff like this blows.

Kokoro

Even our drones are sad. They're leaking oil instead of tears.

Yatsuhashi

I wonder how long this'll go on for...

Raiko

Chin up, everyone. I'm sure we'll be rocking out on stage again soon.

Merlin

You're right!

Youmu

Whoa, you sure cheered up fast!

Merlin

Yeah, moping around doesn't suit me. I'd rather stay positive and spread happy vibes!

Lyrica

Classic Merlin... Still, seeing you like this does cheer me up.

Mystia

I really wanna sing in front of a big crowd. Like, with everyone. But right now...

Merlin

Well, there's no crowd, but what do you say to a quick jam?

Kyouko

What if we get told off for making a racket?

Mystia

Yeah, there might be people trying to sleep around here.

Yatsuhashi

It'll be fine. Just one quick tune!

Merlin

Besides, you two are CLEARLY itching to play some music.

Mystia

I AM feeling a little itchy... All right, I'm in!

Kokoro

Let's get some gadgets involved for a bit of flair. Flying drones is as easy as dancing.

Merlin

Ready, everyone? One-two, one-two-three-four!

Kyouko

This is amazing! Music really IS the best!

...Look over there!

Cirno

Huh? That's weird. I thought I heard something.

Daiyousei

Maybe it was just your imagination. There's no way anyone would hold a concert here.

Cirno

Tch. I was looking forward to some live music. It's been so long.

Kokoro

Oh, no. The jig's up. We should have put the drones on patrol mode.

Raiko

Any louder and we're gonna get yelled at. Time to pack it up.

Merlin

It was a pretty short jam, but I had tons of fun. Let's do this again sometime!

Raiko

Putting on stealth concerts like this is kinda a vibe.

Sakuya

We better get out of here, too.

Kyouko

We're heeere! Miss Sakuya, Miss Youmu, we're counting on you.

Youmu

Leave it to us.

Thanks for helping me get home.

Kyouko

No problem! I'm just happy you came to the show.

Mystia

Too bad you weren't able to, you know, enjoy it.

Yeah...

Mystia

But next time will be different! No use wearing socks―we'd just blow 'em off!

Kyouko

Bring you-know-who along, too. She was busy today, but I'm sure she'd have a blast.

Kyouko

Good night!

Sakuya

And to you, too.

Sakuya

And that's that.

It's late, huh?

Youmu

We should hurry up.

Sakuya

We should... but do you mind taking a little detour?

Youmu

Why?

Sakuya

Isn't it obvious?

Sakuya

What do you say to a midnight guitar lesson with yours truly?

Youmu

If PLAYER's out too late, you-know-who will worry.

Sakuya

That's why I said a LITTLE detour. That stealth concert really got the musical juices flowing.

Youmu

I can't exactly say no, can I?

Youmu

But we need to keep quiet. How about an air-guitar lesson?

Youmu

I'm still learning the ropes of real guitar, but I'm an AIR-guitar master.

I'm back.

???

There you are. It's pretty late, you know?

Sakuya

Sorry. Something... urgent came up.

Reimu

Urgent, eh? ...At least you still made it back before bedtime.

Reimu

Now, let's get started. I want a full report.

Reimu

Tell me everything you saw. The fairies already gave me the gist of it, but I wanna hear it from you.

(It's the fairies from before!)

Sakuya

Easy. The Misty Lake concert was shut down thanks to the fairies' antics.

Sakuya

I paused time to steal all the mics, then handed them off to the fairies to hide in the lockers.

Youmu

Hopefully they've found them all by now.

Reimu

Good work. I managed to shut down the underground music club's concert, too!

It all went as you planned, Tiny Reimu.

Reimu

I never knew musical equipment was so heavy. I'd have never managed to hide it all without the fairies' help.

Reimu

But right now, we're making good progress toward our goal.

Reimu

If we keep this up, we should be able to resolve the medium incident tearing through Gensokyo!

Several days earlier...

Reimu, over here!

Reimu

I'm coming, I'm coming―wait, what the?!

There was a flash of light, and then she appeared!

Reimu

This has to be what Sakuya and the others were talking about.

Reimu

Still, I can't believe the person who showed up looks just like me.

???

Urgh...

Reimu

Where am I?

She's awake!

Reimu

Who... are you?

I'm PLAYER. Nice to meet you!

Reimu

PLAYER, huh? I don't really get what's going on... but you helped me, right?

Sakuya

Forgotten about us already? We can't have that.

Reimu

A-A big me?! And you're wearing red!

Reimu

Geez, even for me, that's kinda rude.

Youmu

Come on, Miss Reimu, cut her some slack. She's clearly disoriented.

Youmu

We found her unconscious near the shrine. I wonder where she came from...

Sakuya

I've never seen her before. Most likely, she's from another world... just like us.

Sakuya

Um, Reimu―

Sakuya

Actually, calling you both Reimu will get confusing. Let's come up with a different name for our new arrival.

Reimu

How about Tiny? Or Blue?

Reimu

No fair! Since you're big and red, we should call you Big Red!

Reimu

Say that again. I DARE you.

Reimu

Hrmm...

Youmu

Calm down, Miss Reimu. There's no need to get aggressive.

Reimu

Easy for you to say. I don't see a mini Youmu around here.

Sakuya

Anyway... Do you mind if we call you Tiny Reimu?

Reimu

Sure, whatever. I'm more interested in all this "other world" stuff.

Sakuya

Don't worry, we were just getting to that.

Youmu

It seems like sometimes, people just end up in other worlds, like you and us.

Sakuya

It actually happens more than you'd think. We're not the only ones.

Youmu

Some folks have been here so long they've basically become locals.

Reimu

I-I see... So, what should I do now―?

???

Why not stay at the shrine for a while?

Reimu

It's not like you have anywhere else to go. And I have the space.

Reimu

I can provide room and board―so long as you're OK sharing a room with PLAYER.

Reimu

But in return, you've gotta help out around the shrine, got that?

Sakuya

It's hard to tell... but I think she likes you.

A few days later, as the small, blue Reimu began to settle in...

So... what do you wanna do today?!

Reimu

Anything's fine. I'm happy to just tag along with you.

You always say that!

Reimu

We can play ohajiki, draw pictures, play tag―whatever you feel like.

Reimu

I'm happy so long as we're together.

Reimu

Is it really OK for me to be here? There's something I need to do...

Youmu

Tiny Reimu still looks kinda sad, huh?

Sakuya

Expecting someone to adjust in a few days is too much. It wasn't easy for us, remember?

Youmu

OK, it's time for my daily guitar practice. I refuse to be called an amateur―

Sakuya

It's time, mistresses. I've tuned your instruments perfectly and now―

Raiko

With the magic of sound at my fingertips, I'm ready to give my all in pursuit of the ultimate performance―

Raiko

What was that?! It didn't sound like my drums...

Youmu & Sakuya

Wh-Where am I?!

Everyone

Who are you?!

Sakuya

Getting yanked out of your world and into another is tough. Not a day goes by I don't think about Lady Remilia.

Sakuya

I hope she's still practicing without me.

Youmu

THAT'S what you're worried about...?

Sakuya

Anyway, it sounds like things weren't going smoothly for Tiny Reimu back in her world, either.

Sakuya

Let's give her some space for now. At least she and PLAYER are getting on well―

Excited Voice

Hurry, hurry! The concert's about to start.

Excited Voice

This time, we're totally gonna thrash 'em!

Reimu

What was that all about?

Reimu

(Now that I think about it, I've been hearing a lot of music since I got here.)

Reimu

Something feels strange...

Reimu

Hey, PLAYER...

Reimu

Where's all the music coming from? And who's been playing it?

Are you talking about the concerts?

Reimu

Concerts? So THAT'S what it is.

I'm sure there'll be one somewhere today, too.

Reimu

Huh...

Reimu

Wait, did you say "today, TOO"? You mean there's this much noise every day?!

Yep.

Reimu

That doesn't make any sense.

Reimu

Could this be a...? No, I shouldn't jump to conclusions.

How about we go to a concert together?

Reimu

Well, my shrine maiden instincts ARE tingling...

Reimu

I think going to a concert...

Reimu

Is a great idea!

Choujuu Gigaku feat. KissME

Get ready for our best song! We're about to prove...

Choujuu Gigaku feat. KissME

We're Gensokyo's No. 1 band!

Byakuren

Hehe, that was rather good.

Byakuren

But the top spot belongs to us and us alone.

Byakuren

Let music light the way. We'll save everyone's souls with our performances. That's what BOUZU is all about!

Byakuren

Side by side, we're unstoppable! Ready, Joon? One-two, one-two-three-four!

Joon

Turn those amps up to max!

Reimu

Wh-Wh-What the?!

Concerts are awesome, right?!

They're like big parties!

Reimu

This is intense, I'll give you that...

Reimu

But it's not normal!

Huh?

Reimu

Snap out of it, PLAYER. Don't let yourself get swept up in all this hype!

H-Hype? What hype?

Reimu

Just look around. Doesn't anything feel off to you?

Hyped-Up Crowd

Concerts rule!

Hyped-Up Crowd

Music is life! Never stop rocking!

Everything seems fine.

Reimu

No, it doesn't!

Reimu

Having huge concerts like this every day is super weird.

It is...?

Reimu

There's no way people should be having this much fun.

But fun is so... fun.

Reimu

Everyone's eyes are glued to the stage like they're under a spell. And the performers seem outright possessed.

Reimu

Nothing's as it should be. This is exactly what I was taught to look out for. It's a...

Reimu

Medium incident!

A medium what? ...Are you feeling OK, Reimu?

(Actually, she seems more energetic than usual.)

Reimu

I can't let this continue. As the Hakurei shrine maiden, I have to resolve this incident!

Reimu

First, I need to... Umm... Where do I even start?

Reimu

OK, I figured it out! Get ready, PLAYER, 'cause we're about to gather some intel.

Wait, why am I coming, too?!

Reimu

Duh...

Reimu

Because we're friends!

At the underground music club...

Reimu

So this is a concert venue? Everyone really gathers in a place like this, huh?

Yep! Tons of different bands perform here.

Youmu

And it's also where a lot of the backstage crew hang out.

Sakuya

Now that we've brought you here, what are you going to do?

Youmu

It was a bit of a shock when you came back to the shrine and said you wanted to go to a music club.

Youmu

You're not thinking of performing, are you, Tiny Reimu? If you are, we can totally show you the ropes.

Reimu

No, no, no! I told you―I'm here to investigate the incident!

Youmu

...What incident?

Reimu

Step one of any good investigation is gathering intel. Let's talk to one of the concert organizers.

Reimu

I wonder where they're all hiding...

Reimu

Phew... Finally.

Kutaka

Hm? Oh, it's Miss Sakuya, Miss Youmu, Miss PLAYER, and... someone I don't know.

Kogasa

She looks just like Reimu but smaller. The perfect target...

Kogasa

Booooo!

Kogasa

Did I surprise you? Did I? Did I?

Reimu

Not even a little.

Kogasa

Womp, wooomp.

Youmu

She's similar to Miss Reimu in more than just looks, huh?

Sakuya

That's because she IS Reimu.

Sakuya

Come on, Tiny Reimu. What are you waiting for?

Reimu

Right, right. I've got a question for you two.

Kutaka

Sure, go ahead.

Reimu

Can I see the latest concert schedule?

Kogasa

Is that it?

Kutaka

Here you go. This notebook has all the upcoming shows.

Reimu

Let me see here...

Reimu

No way!

What is it?!

Reimu

This place is booked out around the clock! And it's all for either concerts or concert rehearsals!

Is that... not normal?

Reimu

Not even a little!

Kogasa

Pretty sure all the concert venues are as busy as us.

Reimu

Are you serious?!

Youmu

This world's always had a big music scene. It's been this way since we arrived.

Youmu

It doesn't seem particularly strange to me anymore.

Kutaka

Yeah, but things have been getting more intense lately.

Reimu

FINALLY! Someone who gets it!

Kutaka

Like, the way people hyper-focus on their music has felt a bit excessive.

Kogasa

Some folks are literally singing, dancing, and jamming all day long! It's wild!

Reimu

...That confirms my suspicions.

Sakuya

How come you wanted to see us so late?

Sakuya

And in such a deserted spot. What's going on?

Reimu

Sakuya, Youmu, PLAYER.

Reimu

What I'm about to tell you stays between us.

Reimu

I want us to work together to resolve this world's medium incident.

So there IS a medium incident?!

Reimu

Hate to break it to you, but yeah.

Youmu

Hold on a sec! If there's a medium incident going on, why haven't I noticed anything strange?

Reimu

You're really gonna make me explain, huh?

Reimu

...Basically, this medium incident infects people with an all-consuming passion for music.

Youmu

It sounds like you're overthinking things. People in this world have always―

Reimu

Loved music. Yes, you told me.

Reimu

But step back for a moment. Concerts held around the clock, day in, day out, with no end in sight.

Reimu

If that isn't strange, then I don't know what is.

Youmu

I suppose when you put it that way...

Sakuya

All right, we see your point.

Sakuya

But if this is a medium incident, how do you propose we resolve it?

Reimu

Hehe, don't worry about that. Just follow my lead and everything will be fine!

Are you sure I can help, too?

Reimu

Of course! If we all work together, there's nothing to be afraid of!

Reimu

The problem is the musical passion spreading around Gensokyo. All we have to do is eliminate the source!

Reimu

Our mission... is to stop all of the concerts!

Back in the present...

Joon

Sorry it's so last minute. We'll come back once things have calmed down.

Kutaka

We look forward to it.

Kutaka

*sigh*

Kogasa

Rough day, huh, Kutaka?

Kutaka

Yep, another canceled concert and rehearsal session. That makes three today.

Kogasa

More cancellations?!

Kogasa

Wait, that means...

Kogasa

No concerts at all this week!

Kogasa

It's gonna be so boring. Why's this happening?

Kutaka

Probably 'cause of all the recent trouble during performances.

Kogasa

I guess so. Nobody's been able to actually finish a concert in ages.

Kutaka

I mean, we tried getting to the bottom of it all, but everything seems so random.

Kogasa

Maybe we need one of those... what was it? Crisis response manuals? Sounds like a pain to write, though.

Kogasa

Even if we only work backstage, I still love hearing the crowd roar. But now, things are so calm and boring.

Kogasa

Urgh, this blows.

Mokou

This one's canceled, too, huh?

Keine

Cheer up, Mokou. I'm sure there'll be more concerts soon.

(Everything's going to plan. But...)

Reimu

Hehe, this is perfect.

Reimu

At this rate, the medium incident will be resolved in no time!

Reimu

But we're still not doing enough.

Reimu

The concerts have been canceled, but the bands still want to perform...

Reimu

It's time for phase two!

Wh-What's phase two?!

Reimu

No time for questions, PLAYER! We've gotta take things up a notch!

Reimu

We need to find Sakuya and Youmu, fast. I won't risk anyone resolving this incident before we do!

Reimu

It's exactly like I thought. We need to fix things at a deeper level.

Sakuya

Hm?

What do you mean?

Reimu

Remember what I said before about eliminating the source of the medium incident?

Youmu

Yes... But we've already slashed the number of concerts in Gensokyo.

Youmu

What else is left to do?

Reimu

Sure, thanks to all our hard work, there are fewer concerts than before.

Reimu

But that's not enough. We need to change the way people think.

Reimu

What I'm saying is we gotta pull this thing out at the roots.

Sakuya

You don't mean...?

Reimu

We have to stop ALL concerts.

Reimu

Based on what I've seen, this medium incident is being caused by an all-consuming passion for music.

Reimu

This world is awash with music, and concerts are a huge part of that, right?

Reimu

So if we stopped everyone from performing, even just for a little while...

Reimu

People might lose interest in music, and this incident will be resolved.

Are you sure about this?

Youmu

Yeah, I think you might be taking it a bit far.

Reimu

I know it's extreme. But we're out of options... I'm pretty sure this is our best shot.

Youmu

But...

Reimu

No one even realizes they're acting strange. We're the only ones who can snap them out of this!

Sakuya

You may have a point.

Sakuya

But do you realize how many people in this world play music? You want to force every single one of them to stop?

Youmu

Miss Sakuya's right! Besides...

Youmu

Medium incident or not, we can't take away their freedom to perform like that.

Reimu

We have no other choice!

Reimu

The moment we resolve the incident, I promise to let everyone perform again. So please...!

Youmu

I suppose if you promise...

Sakuya

Hmm...

(I still feel like it's taking things a bit far.)

(But if it's to resolve the incident...)

Sakuya

OK, we're in.

Youmu

Are you sure about this, Miss Sakuya?

Sakuya

If what Tiny Reimu says is true, we would've had to take extreme measures eventually.

Sakuya

You've faced incidents yourself, haven't you, Youmu? Albeit, not as many as Reimu.

Youmu

True...

Sakuya

If things start to get out of control, we'll step in. That's the deal, OK?

Reimu

Got it. Thanks!

Reimu

Things are gonna get even more hectic, PLAYER! I'm counting on you as my right-hand girl!

I'll do my best.

Reimu

Everyone's gonna be so happy when we finally resolve this incident!

Reimu

Get some rest. Phase two starts at the crack of dawn tomorrow!

Raiko

That was wicked! Top-tier stuff!

Raiko

We totally improvised that final chorus, but it still landed perfectly!

Lunasa

Yeah! What do you say we play it just like that at next week's concert?

Lyrica

Fine by me. But we might wanna tweak the setlist a little.

Lyrica

You're right. Let me take a look at it.

Lunasa

Our little sisters sure are on top of things.

Lunasa

We'd better not drop the ball with our prep. Especially considering all the trouble lately.

Lunasa

I really hope our show doesn't get canceled.

Raiko

Oh, come on, that's all just rumors.

Raiko

I get why you're worried, but stressing won't help. Let's just enjoy each moment as it comes!

Merlin

Exactly! Music is all about having fun, right? Together, I'm sure we can achieve our goal!

Merlin

After all, we're...

Merlin & Merlin

The ultimate poltergeist―

Merlin & Merlin

And tsukumogami combo!

Merlin

We've gotta spread our music all across Gensokyo! That's the only way we can face them.

Lunasa

You're right. We should focus on making this concert a success... which starts with meticulous preparations.

Lyrica

OK, break's over. Time to practice the next song―

Merlin & Merlin

Whoaaa!

Raiko

Who's there?!

Youmu

It's only us.

Sakuya

Sorry to barge in on you like this.

Reimu

I hate to do this...

Reimu

But that concert of yours is officially canceled!

Raiko

Canceled?! Why?!

Merlin

You can't stop us performing! Not now, not ever!

Reimu

I'll explain everything. Just hear me out, OK?!

Merlin

Owww...

Lyrica

Did you have to go all out on us?

Reimu

...So that's the situation. Do you mind holding off on the concerts for a while?

Lunasa

You're saying there's a medium incident? And we've been affected without us realizing?

Raiko

...Fine. If it's to resolve an incident, we'll do as you ask.

Lyrica

No way! Aren't you gonna put up more of a fight?!

Raiko

What's the point? Sounds like some folks are really struggling. This is the least we can do.

Lyrica

I guess... But let us know the moment it's resolved.

Will do. Sorry, everyone.

Merlin

Urgh, this sucks...

Merlin

I wanna play music!

Youmu

I feel terrible.

Sakuya

These girls live to perform. Taking that away from them really is cruel.

Raiko

We know it's for the good of Gensokyo. Besides, it's just for a little while, right?

Reimu

Thanks. We won't waste a second. Just hang in there!

Lyrica

*sigh* And just like that, we're one step further from our goal.

(Goal? What goal?)

Reimu

Get your head out of the clouds, PLAYER. We've still got a long way to go...

Reimu

And a lot more concerts to cancel!

Mystia

Spin around here and... strike a pose!

Yatsuhashi

Whoa, we can't fall behind! Let's up the tempo!

Kokoro

Step and turn and... lock it in with a pose.

Benben

Everyone's positioning is on point!

Mystia

Hehe, thanks, Benben!

Mystia

Still, I can't believe Kyouko overslept on today of all days. We really need her here so we can rehearse!

Benben

I'm sure she'll be here soon. No need to stress out.

Benben

Though, I am looking forward to seeing you all together in your matching outfits.

Benben

I wouldn't mind getting one myself.

Yatsuhashi

Hehe, I figured if we're gonna make a new band, we should coordinate our styles.

Kokoro

That was such a great idea. We're gonna look so cute together. *peace sign*

Yatsuhashi

You should try forming a new band, too, sis!

Benben

Hmm... Maybe I'll ask Lunasa and Lyrica sometime.

Mystia

Lately, there's been a lot of bad luck going around, but our music's still blaring out across Gensokyo!

Mystia

It shouldn't be long until we're able to meet the legends!

Mystia

If you ask me, we need to start playing EVEN MORE concerts―

Everyone

Ahhh!

Sorry!

Reimu

Cut the music!

Kyouko

OK, I know it's my bad for being late...

Kyouko

But what's going on here?!

Yatsuhashi

You want us to stop performing?!

Reimu

Just for a while. Please, for Gensokyo's sake!

Kokoro

Half a day? Fine. A whole day? Doable. But an unspecified "while"?

Kokoro

*shudder* That's just cruel.

Kyouko

Why don't you just resolve the incident now? You have no idea how long it's gonna take, do you?!

Mystia

Yeah! You can't take music away from us. You think the legends will accept a rusty performance?!

Reimu

Please! You'll be back to playing music in no time... probably.

Benben

That's hardly reassuring.

Yatsuhashi

You can't stop us performing. You're not our manager! Everyone deserves a shot at the legends!

Reimu

Hold up. What are these legends you all keep talking about? And why are you so obsessed with them?

Benben

What do you mean, why?

Yatsuhashi

Because they're legends!

Reimu

...Yeah, that doesn't help.

Are the legends... people?

Mystia

Not just any people. They're the most talented musicians in Gensokyo. And if you play well, you get to challenge them.

Sakuya

Maybe challenging them is the goal the Prismriver sisters mentioned.

Benben

...Wait. Don't tell us you've never heard of them.

Kokoro

In that case, we'll just have to fill you in.

Kokoro

Listen up. This is a ballad for all who live for music.

Kokoro

It tells the story of how the legends came to be.

Kokoro

There are those who have mastered all genres of music.

Kokoro

Their melodies are said to enchant even the gods.

Kokoro

With just a single note, their voices captivate the world. They are strangers to no instruments.

Kokoro

They're true icons of the music world. We call them...

Kokoro

The Genius Music Girls.

Kokoro

To meet them, you need real talent, impeccable music instincts, and unyielding passion.

Kokoro

That's why everyone's so serious about music. We all want to find out what heights our concerts can reach.

Kokoro

So, yeah. Now you know.

Reimu

Sounds like something out of a fairy tale.

Kyouko

Hey, this isn't a fairy tale! If we establish ourselves as top-tier, we'll finally get to meet them.

Kyouko

...Probably.

Probably, huh?

Reimu

So the "Genius Music Girls" are the root of all the passion for music? Aka, the cause of the medium incident.

Reimu

I wonder who they are.

Reimu

Say, since you all worship them so much, surely you know what they look like, right?

Yatsuhashi

Umm...

Yatsuhashi

Nope!

Reimu

What gives?! Now I'm SURE this is all a fairy tale!

Benben

We're telling the truth. Honest. It's just... none of us have ever seen them.

Mystia

I heard they wear mostly white outfits, have big ribbons in their hair... Oh, and that they always carry mics with them.

Mystia

But that's too vague to pin them down, right? Who DOESN'T have ribbons in their hair?

Reimu

That can't be all you know about them. Like, what do they do besides music?

Yatsuhashi

Hmm... I have a feeling they're from another world. Or was it from another time? I get it mixed up.

Benben

Nah, I read in a magazine that they're traveling performers, using their music to bring about world peace.

Kokoro

Remember how they can play any instrument? Well, maybe they all have extra hands.

OK, I'm officially confused.

Reimu

If you're gonna make up stories, at least make them believable.

Youmu

Psst, this all sounds a lot like...

Sakuya

I know. But we can't be certain.

Youmu

Still, I think we should tell them...!

Sakuya

Sorry to cut in, but would it be OK if we stepped out for a moment?

Sakuya

PLAYER, Tiny Reimu, will you come with us?

I guess...

Reimu

But we're busy gathering intel about the medium incident―

Sakuya

That's what we want to talk to you about.

Sakuya

Their story might not be as crazy as you think.

Reimu

So you're saying their story is real?

Sakuya

Yes. But, first...

Youmu

We owe you an apology.

Sakuya

I think the rumors were started...

Sakuya

By us.

Sakuya

It all started long before Tiny Reimu arrived in this world...

Sakuya

Back when we first transported here from our world.

Youmu

Just like Tiny Reimu, we were confused at first. We never imagined we'd find ourselves in a different world.

Sakuya

It took a little while, but we managed to make friends through music.

Sakuya

We got to know people by playing at battle-of-the-bands concerts, and then, they started to recognize our skills.

Youmu

Music is a universal language in our world, too. It's always been a great way to connect with others.

Youmu

The people here became our peers, friends, and rivals. And this world became something of a musical boot camp for us.

Sakuya

We even started amassing fans of our own.

Youmu

But one day, we got invited to do an interview for a popular music magazine.

Youmu

We never imagined it would lead to all this...

Aya

Great show today! Your set was absolutely electric!

Aya

Miss Sakuya, your guitar playing was flawless, and that backed up by Miss Youmu's energy―incredible!

Aya

Don't even get me started on the alternating guitar solos. I'm honored to be in the same room with a band like you!

Youmu

Haha, thanks...

Sakuya

This is supposed to be an interview, right? We're on a tight schedule, so make it quick.

Aya

Oops, my bad. Let's get to it.

Aya

So tell me, what are your goals for the future?

Youmu

Our goals?

Sakuya

(We'd like to get home, but that's not exactly the type of answer she's looking for.)

Aya

I heard you're both from another world.

Aya

That's pretty fascinating! Who are your biggest rivals back home?!

Sakuya

Our biggest rivals, huh? It's gotta be...

Sakuya

Youmu and I both knew the answer. We didn't even have to confer.

Sakuya

In our world, there's a band that shines brighter than any other.

Sakuya

Our world's Reimu and Marisa.

So that's what happened...

Youmu

I had a bad feeling from the way they were talking earlier, but after seeing this magazine, there's no doubt.

Magazine

Exclusive Interview with Rising Stars DUALxEDGE!

Magazine

Their Ultimate Goal? To Overcome A Pair of Genius Musicians!

Magazine

Do Any Bands Have What It Takes to Challenge Them?

Wow, this is some interview!

Sakuya

We never said half of the stuff written in there. I completely forgot how much crow tengu love to exaggerate.

Youmu

I can't say for sure, but it seems like some people read this and took it as fact.

Youmu

Rumors about it kept spreading until our rivals basically became legends.

Youmu

And apparently, there were only a handful of copies printed, which probably added fuel to the fire.

Things sure did escalate quickly...

Reimu

So you two are the cause of this... Then again, it's not like you did any of this on purpose. No point blaming you now.

Reimu

The important thing is that we learned the Genius Music Girls don't actually exist.

Reimu

Which means there's no bad guy to blast. All we have to do is calm everyone down before the hype gets any worse.

Reimu

If we can stop all the concerts, things should go back to normal.

Reimu

All right, the finish line's in sight. Let's meet up again tomorrow and get back to work!

A short while and many canceled concerts later...

Byakuren

Oh, my... Joon, where did you put the mics?

Joon

What do you mean? I left them right there on the table.

Joon

...No way. They were here before!

Byakuren

We need to find them, fast! There'll be no concert without them!

Joon

I heard the rumors, but this Concert Curse is worse than I imagined. It brings more misfortune than Shion!

Byakuren

All those morning prayers for success were a waste... Things aren't looking good.

Youmu

Mics secured. But if they cancel the show, we give them back... right?

Sakuya

Yes. But we need to make sure they don't spot us. Let's hide in the lockers.

Youmu

Or... we could just hide outside like normal people!

Satono

If we can't perform, our band's reputation is gonna tank!

Mai

Yep, that's why we've gotta rehearse in secret.

Kokoro

This rhythm is great. Keep it up―

Reimu

No more concerts!

Benben & Yatsuhashi

Eek! It's her!

Reimu

No need to scream. I'm not a monster!

Reimu

Please... this is for Gensokyo's sake.

Reimu

Just hold out a little longer, and we'll all make it through this!

Kogasa

So that's it. We're officially at zero concerts.

Kutaka

Yep...

Mokou

*sigh*

Keine

Y-You OK, Mokou?

Mokou

Sorry. I didn't mean for you to see me like this. I know there's an incident going on... but this sucks.

Keine

I can't remember the last time it was this quiet outside.

Keine

Some of my students are feeling down, too. Getting to go to concerts used to motivate them to study.

Mokou

I just want things to go back to how they were. I don't mind a little chaos.

(We did it. There are no more concerts.)

(This should end the medium incident... I hope.)

Reimu

I know you're worried... but we did the right thing.

Reimu

Everyone will go back to normal soon.

Yeah, you're probably right.

And when they do, maybe they'll all thank us!

Reimu

That'd be nice.

Reimu

Starting tomorrow, I'll keep an eye on everyone. I just hope their strange obsession with concerts is gone...

Reimu

That'll show 'em that I can resolve incidents, too!

Reimu

No loud music, no one in a frenzy over concerts... I declare this medium incident...

Reimu

Resolved!

Youmu

Everything's calm and quiet... maybe a little too quiet?

Sakuya

Still, we did what we set out to do.

Sakuya

But keeping people from playing music forever wouldn't be fair.

Youmu

I'd love to give everyone an idea of when they can start performing again.

Reimu

I know. And if the hype had totally died down, we would've done so already.

Reimu

But I'd like to keep watch for a few more weeks. If things flared up again, I'd have to declare the incident UN-resolved.

Youmu

A-A few weeks?! Can't you make it a few days?

Reimu

We can't afford to be hasty. Now's not the time to take chances!

Sakuya

I understand how you feel, but... Huh?

Reimu

Is that Raiko and the others? What are they doing sneaking around?

Reimu

Hrmm... I've got a bad feeling about this.

Really? They don't look suspicious to me.

Reimu

Let's follow 'em. Stay behind me. And stay quiet.

Raiko

Yeeeeah!

Reimu

What's going on?!

Spectator

Woohoo! Crank the volume up even higher!

Raiko

Thanks for showing up tonight, everyone! Let's keep up the energy!

Is this... a concert?!

Reimu

Wh-Why is this happening?! This isn't even a concert venue!

Mystia

That you, PLAYER? Great timing!

Kyouko, Mystia... What's going on here?!

Kyouko

Hehehe! It's...

Kyouko

A stealth concert!

Reimu

A stealth concert?!

Kyouko

The Concert Curse has been bringing everyone down lately.

Mystia

And we're sorry, but... the musicians just couldn't hold it in anymore. They needed to perform.

Reimu

You've gotta be kidding me!

Mystia

The way things were going, it was only a matter of time until tensions boiled over.

Kyouko

So we thought, what if, instead of holding concerts at regular venues, we held them outside?!

Kyouko

Secret concerts in places no one would expect... aka, stealth concerts!

Mystia

Remember that jam session on the road we had a while back? You were there, right, PLAYER?

Oh, yeah. I remember!

Mystia

Well, so did Raiko. She was the one who reached out to everyone.

Kyouko

And so far, things are going great! The bands are playing music again, and the crowd's loving it!

Mystia

It's unofficial, so the deal was that we keep things on a small scale.

Mystia

And of course, we got permission to use the space, too.

Kyouko

We've finally been having fun again. Like, tons of it!

Kyouko

Now it's our duty to share this joy with more people!

Choujuu Gigaku

C'mon, jump into the whirlpool of joy!

Reimu

Please tell me I'm dreaming...

Reimu

Things are worse than ever!

Reimu

I have to stop this... I have to stop the stealth concerts!

Reimu

Tch, we've gotta pull back. Let's regroup and figure out our next move.

What's the matter, you two?

Youmu

Eek! N-Nothing!

Youmu

We're both just a little tired. Come on, Miss Sakuya, let's go find a place to relax.

All right, well, take it easy.

Youmu

(Why won't my heart stop fluttering?)

Reimu

*gasp* *gasp*

Reimu

W-Won't this ever end?!

Are you OK, Reimu?!

Reimu

I'm fine! Just need a little breather!

Reimu

Urgh, things were so much easier when we only had proper concert venues to deal with!

Reimu

Now there are concerts in the village, in the forest, even on the mountain. How are we supposed to stop them all?

Wait... Where are Youmu and Sakuya?

Reimu

I haven't seen them since this morning. Did they seriously ditch us?

Maybe they're off stopping other concerts!

Reimu

I sure hope so. Let's keep fighting the good fight.

Mokou

Woohoo! Go, DUALxEDGE! Shred those guitars!

Youmu

Thank you, thank you! Let me hear you screeeeeam!

Sakuya

We're so glad you're here. For our next song―

Youmu

Uh-oh.

Reimu

What are you two doing?!

Youmu

Sorry, Miss Blue Reimu! We were trying to stop the stealth concerts...

Sakuya

But we just couldn't help ourselves.

DUALxEDGE

We had to get on stage!

Yikes... This is a mess.

Reimu

You said it... Let's get 'em!

Reimu

(I have to resolve this incident... whatever it takes!)

Mokou

Mornin'. Looks like another perfect day for a concert.

Keine

A stealth concert just popped up right outside the school. It's super loud, and honestly...

Keine

I couldn't be happier!

Mokou

Me, too. I hope they keep happening everywhere. There's never a dull moment with this much music in the air!

Reimu

(Why is everything getting worse?)

Reimu

(The music's louder than ever, and even Youmu and Sakuya have been caught up in the frenzy.)

Reimu

(There's no end in sight!)

Reimu

(What have I gotta do to resolve this thing?!)

Reimu

Could it be...

Reimu

That this is all my fault?

Umm, Reimu?

Reimu

Hey, PLAYER.

Reimu

Sorry, I kinda feel like being alone right now.

But―!

Reimu

What sort of Hakurei shrine maiden can't resolve a medium incident? Admit it, you think I'm a total letdown.

I would never―

???

You're being awfully cold. PLAYER's just trying to be a good friend.

Reimu

...What are you doing here?

Reimu

I came to talk to you. Mind if I sit down?

Reimu

Sakuya and Youmu told me you've been trying to resolve the incident. Is that true?

(So they told Reimu, huh?)

Reimu

So what if it is?

Reimu

I'm just asking.

Reimu

...Yeah, it's true.

Reimu

But I failed. Miserably.

Reimu

I have no right to call myself a Hakurei shrine maiden.

Reimu

Meh, if you say so.

Reimu

So, how did you go about resolving it?

Reimu

I don't have to tell you.

Reimu

No, but if this gets any worse, I'm gonna have to step in. So quit sulking and tell me what you know.

Reimu

...That's everything we did.

Reimu

Are you sure that's all of it?

Uh-huh. She's telling the truth.

Reimu

So you were trying to remove the source of the incident.

Reimu

It sounds like you gave it your best shot. But there's something you need to understand.

What?

Reimu

I'm not saying everything you did was wrong. But not everything you did was right, either.

Reimu

That doesn't make any sense.

Reimu

Urgh, fine. I'll explain properly...

Reimu

Just 'cause you discover an incident doesn't mean you should start trying to resolve it right away.

Reimu

Huh?! You're saying we shoulda just ignored it?

Reimu

No! Geez, I wasn't finished yet.

Reimu

You might not like it, but I'm far more experienced than you. Let me give you some advice.

Reimu

The passion for music you locked onto wasn't caused by a medium incident. In fact, it was relatively harmless.

Reimu

But everyone was losing their minds!

Reimu

You're exaggerating. I would know. I investigated it myself.

Reimu

...

Reimu

Gensokyo's always been full of music lovers. I'll admit there have been a lot of concerts lately...

Reimu

But people are being spurred on by some strange rumor.

Reimu

This is no different from the trends that pop up constantly in the outside world.

Reimu

The musicians started playing with even more passion than before, and that passion infected their audiences.

Reimu

And yeah, maybe a few folks with musical abilities went out of their way to make things worse.

Reimu

But the thing about trends is that they fade. People get bored and move on.

Reimu

Sometimes, doing nothing is the best course of action. Interfering can end up pouring oil on the fire.

(Wow, Reimu's really thought this through.)

(She sure is incredible!)

Reimu

So everything I did WAS a mistake...

Reimu

Don't beat yourself up about it. Besides, like I told you, not everything you did was wrong.

Reimu

The fact you tried to resolve the incident shows your heart's in the right place.

Wait. I thought you said there was no incident?

Reimu

Hate to break it to you, but based on how bad things have gotten, I'd say a medium incident really has broken out.

Reimu

Don't tell me it's because of us.

Reimu

You're sharper than I thought.

Reimu

Everyone's passion for music was nothing to worry about― until you guys tried to stop it. Now it's out of control.

Reimu

Get out there and resolve it.

Reimu

But don't expect any clues from me. You're a shrine maiden, too.

Reimu

This time, find the true nature of the incident and what's causing it. Then, stop it and save Gensokyo.

Reimu

Don't worry. If you screw up again, I'll be there to resolve it... through brute force.

Reimu

Hey, don't leave us!

Reimu

She said I should go resolve the incident...

Reimu

But I screwed everything up so bad before.

Reimu

Can I really do this alone?

Don't worry. You've got me!

Reimu

You really mean it?!

Reimu

Reimu was right, though. Beating myself up won't do anyone any good.

Reimu

I'm gonna resolve the medium incident! For real this time!

Reimu

But... it never hurts to have a little help. I wonder if there's anyone we can ask.

Reimu

They need to be unaffected by the incident AND have lots of time on their hands...

Kogasa

Hehe, found someone who looks like they'd be fun to surprise!

Kutaka

Miss Kogasa, you can't just go around surprising people.

Kutaka

Besides, didn't we come here to ask for advice?

Kogasa

Yeah, but we're in no rush. Let's surprise them, THEN talk to them!

Kogasa

They're looking a little blue, but don't worry, I'll turn their faces white with fear!

Kutaka

Umm, I guess that's helpful... Kinda.

Reimu

What are those two doing over there?

(Do they really think we can't see them?)

Reimu

Looks like the incident hasn't gotten to them, though. They could be just who we're looking for! Let's go!

Kogasa

I don't get it... Our hiding spot was flawless.

Maybe. But you two were talking pretty loud.

Kogasa

I don't believe it. We were so close!

Reimu

Anyway... I have a favor to ask. Kind of a big one...

Kutaka

So YOU were behind the Concert Curse.

Reimu

Sorry. I feel really bad about it.

Reimu

I know it's wrong to ask you to forgive me... But I swear, I'll never make that kinda mistake again.

Reimu

You're the only other people not affected by the incident. We need your help. Please!

Pretty please!

Kogasa

Hmm...

Kutaka & Kogasa

OK!

Reimu

For real?! To be honest, I was expecting a hard no.

Kogasa

It's only right to help someone in need. Besides, we came here to talk to you about the incident.

Kutaka

But what really impressed us...

Kutaka

Was your apology!

Kutaka

Everyone makes mistakes. But being honest and apologizing? That's something to be proud of.

Kogasa

C'mon, let's resolve this thing together!

Wait. I know you two aren't affected... but why not?

Reimu

Good point. You've both been in this world for a while. What gives?

Reimu

It's kinda simple... but maybe it's because you never performed at any of the concerts.

Kogasa

That might be it. We always work backstage.

You two don't sing?

Kogasa

Nah, I'd rather give people a good scare than sing!

Kutaka

I sing sometimes... Quietly. When no one's around. Singing on stage would be way too embarrassing.

Reimu

From what we've seen, the people worst affected are the ones who LOVE concerts.

Reimu

Which also explains why Youmu and Sakuya got hit so hard. I'd say we're on to something.

Reimu

They must've been holding back just to help me out.

Reimu

But that's all in the past. I know what we need to do now.

Kutaka & Kogasa

It's way too loud!

It's like this literally everywhere!

Kutaka

Singing like that's bad for your throat! Don't come crying to me when you lose your voice!

Kogasa

And the audio is all over the place. It's just noise! What kind of speaker setup is this?!

Kutaka

For now, let's just try and shout over the music!

Kutaka & Kogasa

*massive inhale*

Kutaka & Kogasa

CUT IT OUUUUT!

Raiko

Tch. This isn't a concert―it's chaos!

Lyrica

I can't stop playing!

Raiko

The rhythm's inside of me and I can't stop it from bursting out! We're the best band there ever waaaas!

Raiko

We're taking music to new heights!

Kutaka

*sad cluck* It's like they can't hear us at all...

Kogasa

This concert's gone so far off the rails, it can't even see the rails.

Kutaka

The musicians, the crowd... no one here's acting normal. It's as if something's enchanted them.

Reimu

Things are way worse than I thought.

Kutaka

Yeah, but we can't give up. Let's call out to them again!

Reimu

You're right. We've gotta keep trying!

Reimu

First things first, we need to get the crowd away from here. That should help calm them down.

Kutaka

Good idea!

Kogasa

Stop! Resisting!

Kutaka

C'mon, Miss Mokou! Let's go take a breather!

Mokou

More! I need more! Give me more music!

Kutaka & Kogasa

Eek! Hot, hot, hot!

It's no use. We can't even get close!

Reimu

This isn't even the only concert going on. We've got to deal with the others, too.

Kutaka

With this many bands and this many fans, we might not be able to handle them all alone.

Reimu

...Were people already holding these stealth concerts before I got to this world?

Kogasa

Nope. If someone wanted to perform, they'd book a proper venue. Everyone was fighting over timeslots.

Kogasa

Playing this loud out in the streets isn't OK. I kinda see how people get swept up in it, but still.

Reimu

Huh... Maybe the concert venues were actually keeping everyone's passion for music under control.

Reimu

But now that those spaces are gone, it's spilling out into the streets.

Reimu

I think this medium incident has shifted from an all-consuming passion for music to an excess of stealth concerts.

Reimu

So, how do we resolve it? Think, Reimu, think!

Reimu

This is my mess. I've gotta be the one to clean it up!

Reimu

...Wait, that's it!

Have you got something?

Reimu

I sure do. This incident is toast!

The next day...

Reimu

First, let's take a look at the situation.

Reimu

Why did these stealth concerts start popping up everywhere in the first place?

Kogasa

Umm, so you want, like, the original reason?

Because no one could perform at the proper venues.

Reimu

Exactly. We asked them to stop performing for a while. They lost the thing they love the most―concerts.

Reimu

Then, there were rumors of the Concert Curse, which only caused more trouble.

Kutaka

All that frustration built up and up... until it exploded.

Kutaka

So... how do we get things back under control?

Reimu

Simple.

Reimu

We give them a real stage. A big one. Make them feel like they don't need to perform on the streets anymore.

Reimu

To do that, we have to find a way to gather all the musicians in one place.

That sounds kinda tricky...

Reimu

Yep. It's lucky there's four of us to figure it out.

Kogasa

We need everyone together, huh?

Kutaka

Well, big events always draw a crowd.

Kutaka

We just need one that NO ONE in Gensokyo can resist...

Kokoro

To meet them, you need real talent, impeccable music instincts, and unyielding passion.

Kokoro

That's why everyone's so serious about music. We all want to find out what heights our concerts can reach.

I know! What about the Genius Music Girls?!

Reimu

The Genius Music Girls... That's it! They're just who we need to draw in the crowds!

Reimu

If they held a concert, every music lover out there would come running!

Kogasa

Great! So all we need to do...

Kogasa

Is go find them!

That's not gonna be so easy...

Kutaka

How come? I'm pretty good at finding people, you know?

Reimu

That may be true, but they're back in Sakuya and Youmu's world.

Reimu

They don't exist here.

Kogasa

Wait, for real?!

Reimu

Hm, I do have one idea, though...

Reimu

Not gonna lie, it's a long shot.

Kogasa

What is it?

Reimu

We look for a big Seal Crystal!

Reimu

I don't know where to find one, and they're super rare. But at least they exist.

Reimu

And if it's true that they grant any wish, then maybe, just maybe, we can bring the Genius Music Girls here.

Kogasa

You were right. That IS a long shot.

Kogasa

But come to think of it, I feel like Miss Youmu said something about a Seal Crystal transporting her here...

She did?!

Reimu

That settles it. We need her and Sakuya on our side.

Reimu

If nothing else, they might know where we can find a big Seal Crystal.

Reimu

Besides...

Reimu

An apology only matters if you give it right away.

Kutaka

Miss Youmuuu! Where are you?!

Kogasa

Sakuyaaa! Tiny Reimu's looking for you!

There are way more people here than before!

If we don't hurry, we'll lose them in the crowd!

Reimu

Youmuuu! Sakuyaaa!

Reimu

It's so loud here!

Kutaka

They'll never hear us with all this noise.

Kutaka

Hrmm... Yelling randomly won't help.

Kutaka

Let's try listening to what people around us are saying. We might pick up something useful!

Kogasa

Good idea. We don't even know for sure if Sakuya and Youmu are here.

OK, let's quiet down and listen.

Crowd Members

Hey, did you catch Raiko's set? My heart is STILL pumping!

Crowd Members

Oh please, Choujuu Gigaku was just as intense!

Crowd Members

Nah, E'MOTE rocked the hardest! I've got their whole intro speech memorized now!

(Whoa, that's kinda cool... No, gotta focus!)

Crowd Members

Hey, DUALxEDGE is down that alley!

Crowd Members

For real?! Let's go!

Crowd Members

They're way too popular. I can never get anywhere near them.

Did you hear that?! They're in the alley!

Reimu

Yep. Let's go!

Kogasa

Look, there they are!

Kogasa

But there's a sea of people between us and them!

Kogasa

Urgh, how are we supposed to get closer?

Kutaka

There's no way we can weave through this crowd.

Reimu

(I can't let anything get in my way.)

Reimu

We're not giving up that easy!

Reimu

Youmu! Sakuya! Over heeeere!

Kutaka

*breathless cluck* I-I hope those two are OK...

Kogasa

Tiny Reimu and PLAYER are so small they slipped right through the crowd.

Kutaka

We better go after them!

I can finally see them!

Reimu

Youmu! Sakuya!

Sakuya

Did you hear that?

Youmu

It looks like... Miss Blue Reimu?

I think they noticed us!

Reimu

Then they haven't completely lost themselves in the stealth concert hype.

Reimu

If we can just get closer, I'm sure they'll listen to us!

Music Lovers

We love music.

Music Lovers

And we love concerts more than anything.

Music Lovers

Different instruments harmonizing and forming melodies― music is the ultimate art form, with infinite potential.

Music Lovers

Our souls tremble, and nothing compares to the joy it brings.

Music Lovers

Ahh, if only this feeling could last forever...

???

...ya! ...mu!

Music Lovers

Let's lose ourselves in the beat and the cheers of the crowd.

???

Sakuya! Youmu!

Music Lovers

...Hm? Is someone calling us?

???

Sakuya! Youmu! Look over here!

Music Lovers

That voice...

Music Lovers

(Wait... now's not the time to be playing music!)

Reimu

W-We finally made it through...

Youmu

Is that Miss Blue Reimu and Miss PLAYER?

Spectator

Huh? The music stopped? Get back to the concert already!

Sakuya

Music... Concert...

Reimu

Please, you gotta listen to me!

Reimu

I have to tell you...

Reimu

I'm sorry!

Reimu

I tried to stop the incident, but all I did was take away what everyone loved.

Reimu

You two wanted to perform, too, but you held back for me. I see that now.

Reimu

I know I don't deserve your forgiveness... but I swear, this time I'll resolve the incident properly!

Reimu

The only thing is... I need your help to do it!

Sakuya

...Huh? Where are we?

Youmu

Whoa! What's with this huge crowd?!

Sakuya

All I remember is that I really wanted to perform.

They're back to normal!

Reimu

Phew.

Sakuya

Thank you, Blue Reimu.

Sakuya

Your voice snapped us back to reality.

Reimu

Don't thank me. I broke our promise.

Sakuya

Once I heard that music on the street, I felt like I had to play some of my own...

Sakuya

That feeling grew and grew until I couldn't resist it.

Reimu

Sounds like this incident really messes with people's heads. Especially if you're a musician.

Reimu

But you two shouldn't feel bad. This is all my fault!

Youmu

Well, let's just call it even!

Sakuya

Agreed. From here on out, we're on the same team.

Reimu

Hey! Quit hugging me!

Sakuya

Oh. You don't like hugs?

Reimu

I... I didn't say that.

Kogasa

Hey, Tiny Reimu! Where are you?!

Kutaka

Miss Sakuya, Miss Youmu... Hehe, looks like you two are back to normal!

Sakuya

So, Tiny Reimu, what's on the agenda today?

Reimu

Well, I was thinking we could―no! Gotta stay focused!

Reimu

Today's the day we finally resolve the medium incident! Listen up, 'cause here comes the plan!

Reimu

Ready?

*gulp*

Reimu

Our mission is to stop the stealth concerts at all costs. And all good missions need a name. This one's called...

Reimu

Operation Big Concert!

Youmu

Whoa, that's so cool! ...I think?

Sakuya

It's catchy, for sure. But it's the details that matter.

Reimu

Don't worry, I've thought everything through.

Reimu

First, we need to show everyone that performing at proper venues is safe again.

Reimu

And to do that, we're going to hold a massive battle-of-the-bands concert!

Reimu

But that alone won't be enough to draw people away from stealth concerts.

Reimu

What we need... is a grand prize for the winning band!

Sakuya

I have a feeling this ties into the Genius Music Girls.

Reimu

Yep. That's why we need to find a big Seal Crystal.

Youmu

There are quite a few of us now. I say we split up into teams.

Reimu

Good idea. Three teams sounds about right to me.

Reimu

First, we need a promo team to let everyone in Gensokyo know about the big concert.

Reimu

And to gather bands to perform on stage.

Youmu

Miss Sakuya and I can handle that.

Sakuya

Indeed. We've met a lot of new people thanks to all the concerts we've been playing.

Youmu

It's funny how things turn out sometimes...

Kogasa

Maybe we should be on the promo team, too.

Kutaka

What happened to us all splitting up?!

Reimu

Yeah, sorry, but I'd like you two to be in charge of setting up the concert venue.

Kogasa

Oh right! That suits us much better! We'll get the venue in shape and surprise everyone!

Kutaka

Pretty sure surprises are much better when they're, you know, surprises...

Reimu

As for the final job... I want you to leave it to me.

You're talking about finding a big Seal Crystal, right?

Sakuya

Are you sure? Perhaps Youmu or I should go with you.

Reimu

Thanks, but I've got this.

Reimu

I thought a lot about how to split up the teams, and trust me, this is for the best.

Don't worry, I'll be there with you!

Sakuya

...All right. But if you need help, just ask.

Youmu

Uh-huh. After all...

Youmu

That's what friends are for!

Reimu

(Youmu's right. In this world, I'm not alone...)

Reimu

Thanks, you guys!

Youmu

Listen up, everyone! There's gonna be a HUGE battle-of-the-bands concert soon!

Sakuya

We're looking for the ultimate performers! Think you're Gensokyo's best? Then sign up and PROVE IT!

Mystia

Isn't playing at a concert venue kinda risky?

Yatsuhashi

Yeah, what about the curse? I don't want all my equipment to disappear.

Kyouko

Besides, we can perform on the streets now. What's the point in gathering up in one spot?

Sakuya

I hear you, I hear you. But try this...

Youmu

Whoever wins the battle of the bands gets to face off against the Genius Music Girls!

Everyone

What?!

Mystia

Sign us up! Sign us up!

Merlin

Us, too! Forget stealth concerts, we gotta practice!

Sakuya

This is going to be even easier than I expected.

Youmu

At the very least, we know SOMEONE will show up.

Youmu

We're performing, too, right?

Sakuya

Uh-huh. I already got the all-clear from Miss Reimu. She said to show everyone in this world what we've got.

Youmu

Then we'd better practice a little.

Sakuya

You said it. We're in this to win.

Reimu

Urgh, I really should've thought this through. Where the heck do we even find a big Seal Crystal?

I wish we at least had a rough idea...

Reimu

You said it. We can hardly afford to run all over Gensokyo like headless chickens.

Reimu

I guess I gotta bite the bullet...

Reimu

...So, yeah. Any intel you can give us would be a huge help.

Reimu

You're looking for a big Seal Crystal, heh? That's kinda tricky...

Reimu

Wait.

Do you know where to find one?!

Reimu

Spit it out already!

Reimu

Forget about finding one.

Reimu

I HAVE one.

Reimu

Wh-Why didn't you tell us that sooner?!

Reimu

Pfft, you shoulda come to me for help sooner.

Reimu

Anyway, I think I saw it when I was cleaning the shrine store cupboard.

Reimu

I asked Yukari about it, and she told me to keep it for now.

Reimu

It's not the sorta thing you want falling into the wrong hands.

Reimu

No, but it's great you found it!

Reimu

So, uhh... hand it over!

Reimu

As if.

Reimu

Whaaaat?!

Reimu

How do I know you won't use it for the wrong reasons?

Because... we promise not to! Please! We need it!

Reimu

Not you, too, PLAYER.

Reimu

...All right, fine.

Reimu

You're really gonna give it to us?!

Reimu

I'm thinking about it.

Reimu

But first, you've gotta prove you're worthy of it!

Reimu

You mean we're gonna have a battle of bullets? You VS me? Red VS Blue? Big VS little? ...You're on!

Reimu

Urgh!

Reimu

Come on! If you're really me, that shouldn't be all you've got!

Reimu

Don't tell me your heart's not in it. You already screwed up resolving the incident once, remember?!

Reimu

That may be. But this time, I won't fail!

Reimu

(But what do I do? She's too powerful!)

Reimu

I can't seem to land a clean shot!

Reimu

Don't tell me this is where my journey ends!

???

Didn't we tell you to let us know if you needed help?

Reimu

You guys!

Reimu

Whoa, that's a lotta backup.

Kutaka

We had just finished setting up the venue when we heard you were in trouble!

Kyouko

Heh heh, let us get in on the action!

Raiko

We gotta protect you so we still have a concert to perform at!

Kokoro

Helping a friend means more than any stealth concert.

Sakuya

Let's take her down together!

Reimu

All right, that'll do.

Reimu

I give up. There's no way I can take you all on.

Reimu

Does that mean...?!

Reimu

Yeah, you win. The big Seal Crystal's yours. It's in the store cupboard.

Reimu

Yippee!

Reimu

C'mon, everyone, let's go get it!

Reimu

Tch. Look at her, getting carried away like that.

Thanks, Reimu!

Reimu

For what? I didn't do anything.

I dunno... You seem a little nicer than usual.

Reimu

Oh, yeah?

Reimu

Becoming a Hakurei shrine maiden isn't easy.

Reimu

You have to study, learn new skills, fight in battles... It's overwhelming.

Y-Yikes.

Reimu

I didn't challenge Tiny Reimu to a battle just for the sake of it. I wanted her to remember who she was. WHAT she was.

Reimu

Maybe it was a bit extreme, but I thought backing her into a corner like that was the best way to help.

Reimu

She caused this medium incident. Sure, I could resolve it for her...

Reimu

But then she might never have believed in herself again. I wanted her to do it herself.

Reimu

Don't tell her I said any of that... OK?

I knew it. You ARE nice!

Reimu

Yeah, yeah. Now get outta here before I give you a hug.

Kogasa

OK, move those big amps over that way!

Kutaka

Lights are all hooked up. Let's test 'em out.

Raiko

Rehearsal time! Are everyone's instruments tuned?

Merlin

Yep! Let's start playing already!

Everyone's so locked in.

Kogasa

Hehe, thanks PLAYER. We're used to setting up venues by now.

Reimu

The big concert's tomorrow. There's no room for slip-ups.

Reimu

I wanna help, too. Is there anything I can do?

Reimu

Though maybe I should just leave things to the pros.

Kogasa

Hmm, I think we're good for now. Most of the backstage work's done.

Kogasa

How about you go watch the others? I think they're about to rehearse their set.

Reimu

That's not really helping, though, is it?

Kogasa

Tch, tch, tch. You're missing the point. The thing about musicians...

Kogasa

Is that they love an audience! You'll be doing them a huge favor.

Kogasa

So, c'mon. Take PLAYER and go cheer them on!

Reimu

I think this is the first time I've listened to anyone play. Like, really listened.

No kidding?

Reimu

Yeah. I've always been so focused on resolving the incident.

Reimu

Even when we snuck into concerts before, I was too focused to take any of it in.

Reimu

But, to tell you the truth...

Reimu

This is kinda awesome.

Raiko

You bet it is! Music's the best!

Raiko

You came to watch our rehearsal, right?

Yatsuhashi

In that case, we'll dedicate this next song to you.

Lyrica

Hope you like it!

Kokoro

E'MOTE's gonna blast you into space. CYBER-space!

Merlin

By the time we're through, PLAYER's gonna be our number-one fan!

Yatsuhashi

Get ready, 'cause here gooooes!

Raiko

Thanks for coming, you two. This intoxicating beat's just for you!

Lyrica

One-two, one-two-three-four!

The day of the big concert...

Youmu

It's finally here! Urgh, I'm so nervous.

Reimu

Seriously? Haven't you played, like, a million concerts already?

Youmu

Yeah, but you never know how it'll go until you're up on stage!

Reimu

Just give it your all. I reckon you two have a real shot at winning.

Youmu

What do you mean, us two?

Reimu

Huh?

Sakuya

Don't play dumb. You're performing with us, remember?

Sakuya

It says so right here on the schedule.

It says "DUALxEDGE feat. Hakurei Shrine"...

And it's got both of our names beside it?!

Reimu

Whaaat?!

Kogasa

Hehe, I wonder if Tiny Reimu's freaking out right now. There's no one in Gensokyo I can't surprise!

Kogasa

Sneaking her onto the schedule was a stroke of genius. I can't wait to see her on stage!

Kutaka

Is everyone ready to make some noise?!

Kutaka

This isn't just any concert!

Kutaka

It's the ultimate showdown to decide the best band in Gensokyo!

Kutaka

Welcome to the Big Concert!

Kutaka

And judging our performers will be you, the crowd!

Kutaka

After all the acts are done, use the glowsticks we handed out to vote for your favorite!

Kutaka

All right, enough click-clucking! It's about time our bands took the stage!

Kutaka

The perfectly tuned, all-grown-up older-sister duo... Say hello to Ane-Mone!

Lunasa

Let's do this, Benben. I'll follow your lead.

Benben

There's no way we can lose!

Kutaka

Next up, it's everyone's favorite little sister team-up... E'MOTE!

Merlin

Hey, guys! We're here to steal your hearts!

Kokoro

Our performance is flawless. Trust us, you don't want to miss it.

Yatsuhashi

Get ready for a set that's equal parts cute and awesome!

Kutaka

We're not done yet, folks! Give a huge cheer for the perfect percussion duo, LaBoSta!

Raiko

The energy of the crowd... The view from on stage... This is what I've been waiting for!

Kutaka

There are so many talented musicians raring to go, but I've still got one more act to introduce...

Kutaka

It's the latest duo to make it big... and they've brought some guests!

Kutaka

Say hello to DUALxEDGE feat. Hakurei Shrine!

Sakuya

Whoa... that was quite the intro.

Reimu

Wh-Why am I on stage, again?!

Reimu

You know I don't play any instruments, right? And I'm pretty sure my singing is average at best...

Youmu

It's fine. There's no pressure.

Sakuya

Leave the battle of the bands to us. Just do your best to hype up the crowd.

Reimu

And how are we s'posed to do that?

We could clap! And do some call and response!

And look, I found some castanets and maracas!

Reimu

You're enjoying this a lot more than I expected.

Reimu

Urgh, this isn't the time to get stage fright! If I'm really doing this, then I'm not holding back!

Kutaka

Who will deliver the most electrifying performance of the night?!

Kutaka

Let the Big Concert... BEGIN!

Mokou

Things are heating up!

Mokou

Ahhh! I can't believe I'm at a concert THIS good!

Mokou

If this gets any better, my soul's gonna set on fire!

Mokou

Music RUUUUULES!

Reimu

Urgh, it's so loud I can barely hear myself think!

Reimu

It's worse than before. But somehow...

Reimu

It's super fun this time!

Reimu

I've never gone this crazy before, but now that I have... I'm never going back!

Reimu! Come dance with me!

Reimu

Y-You want me to dance? I suppose I'm no stranger to it... OK, let's do it!

Reimu

Here, take my hand. Follow my lead!

Reimu

Hahahaha! Yippee!

Sounds like you're having fun!

Reimu

Yep! I've never experienced anything like this!

Reimu

The noise, the chaos, the music! It's all so exciting!

Reimu

I used to think it was strange. But now I totally get it.

Reimu

This isn't a medium incident! It's a feeling we all have inside of us!

Reimu

I...

Reimu

I...

Reimu

I love music!

Woohoo! Me, too!

Mystia

Those hype girls sure are enjoying themselves.

Sakuya

Of course they are. They're the best friends a maid could ask for!

Raiko

Not gonna lie, their happiness is super infectious!

Raiko

Concerts are all about music.

Raiko

Everyone's sound is different, and that's what makes them so special!

Yatsuhashi

Even just a short melody can capture someone's heart.

Yatsuhashi

And no matter how many times you perform a song, it'll never be the same twice.

Yatsuhashi

That's the beauty of concerts!

Raiko

DUALxEDGE, it's an honor to face you in this battle of the bands!

Kogasa

Sounds like our last act is about to perform!

Kutaka

Get ready to cast your votes!

Kutaka

Assuming everything's on schedule, I think it's about time.

Kogasa

Yep. The stage is lit and the music's loud. If we're gonna call them, this is our chance!

Kogasa

Everyone here shares the same wish: to be a part of the greatest concert of all time!

Kogasa

I think this just might work!

Kutaka

Now, take to the stage...

Kutaka

Genius Music Girls!

Youmu

We need you to cheer as loud as you can, everyone! The duo you all wanna see is in another world!

Sakuya

Let our combined wish power the big Seal Crystal and summon them to us!

Reimu

Th-The whole stage is shaking!

Sakuya

Is this part of the show?

Reimu

This is around the time we were gonna use the crystal...

Reimu

B-But this is kinda freaking me out!

Kogasa

...Huh? We used the crystal, right?

Kutaka

Yep. And we all made a wish together.

Kogasa

But after all that flashing and shaking... I don't see anyone new.

Kutaka

Maybe we used it wrong... Wait, what if it was a fake?

Youmu

No way! Did we fail?

Reimu

I don't think so.

Reimu

Everyone, look up!

???

...Yo, Reimu. Any clue where we are?

???

Hmm... by the looks of it, I'd say we're at some kinda concert.

???

Yeah, but I don't recognize this place at all. I don't remember signing up to be randomly summoned.

???

Look, there's a spotlight below us. Think we should try and get down there?

Youmu

Miss Sakuya, that's...!

Sakuya

Hehe, looks like the plan worked.

Raiko

Wait, wait, wait! Are you telling me that's...

Everyone

The Genius Music Girls!

Marisa

Well, I'm confused, but it looks like they're happy to see us!

Reimu

Yeah, but who are the Genius Music Girls?

Marisa

Hold up, is that Youmu and Sakuya?!

Reimu

Oh, so I guess this is THEIR concert. In that case...

Marisa & Reimu

We're OK to stage-crash!

Sakuya

Go right ahead! Everyone's been waiting for you!

Youmu

Light up the crowd with your music!

Marisa

That's what I like to hear. Let's do this, Reimu.

Reimu

Hold onto your souls, 'cause this concert's about to kick into overdrive!

Kyouko

I don't believe it... It's really them!

Everyone

The Genius Music Girls!

Kokoro

I want an autograph. I'll treasure it forever!

Merlin

Forget about that, I wanna hear them play live.

Yatsuhashi

But only the winners of the battle of the bands are allowed to challenge them, right?

Mystia

And I think we all know who that's gonna be.

Raiko

Yep. I was thinking about hopping into the crowd just so I could vote for them.

Kogasa

Umm, this connects to that... OK, I think we're ready. Emphasis on the THINK.

Kutaka

All right, the moment of truth has arrived.

Kutaka

Time to announce the winner!

Kutaka

The band with the most votes...

Kutaka

What?! You gotta be kidding me! Everyone's tied for first place!

Kutaka

Are you sure you counted right, Miss Kogasa?!

Kogasa

You think I tallied all those glowsticks myself?! We're using the latest technology here!

Mystia

So, uhh... what do we do?

Merlin

Only the winner gets to challenge the Genius Music Girls, right?

Sakuya

Yes, but with this many winners, it'll be a touch unfair.

Yatsuhashi

Maybe we should narrow it down a little more.

Kokoro

No way. We didn't come this far just to decide it all with a game of rock-paper-scissors.

Marisa

Hey, sorry to interrupt.

Raiko

Is there a problem? Actually, no one's even explained what's going on, huh?

Marisa

Don't worry about that. We got the gist of it from the folks backstage.

Reimu

Basically, we came to say...

Reimu

This massive concert is only gonna be held once, right? So, instead of getting hung up on the details, we decided...

Marisa

We'll take you ALL on!

Kyouko

All of us? Are you serious?!

Reimu

You bet. We wanna make the most out of our time here.

Reimu

Besides, what better way to explore the music of this world?

Marisa

And if you all love music as much as it seems, then it's only fair we step up our game!

Sakuya

Maybe the rumors were true after all...

Sakuya

Let's give the crowd a finale they won't forget!

Music Lovers

Everyone's melodies are syncing up!

Music Lovers

This is beyond "winners" and "losers."

Music Lovers

Yeah... This music is so unique. None of us could've achieved it alone. I'm so glad I got to be a part of it.

Everyone

We're the best bands there ever were!

Keine

Ahh, tonight's concert was so much fun.

Mokou

Yeah, but it went by so fast.

Keine

Don't worry, there'll be another concert tomorrow. I actually kind of enjoy the wait.

Mokou

Hmm, I guess it's nice to have something to look forward to.

Mystia

Today was the best day ever!

Kyouko

I still can't believe we got to go up against the legends themselves!

Yatsuhashi

They were on a whole other level, huh? We've got a long way to go till we can pull off a performance like that.

Raiko

Yeah, but that's kinda exciting, isn't it? Now we know just how good our music could be!

Kokoro

You said it. Let's keep playing together until WE become legends.

Merlin

There's no time to waste. We need to hold another battle of the bands tomorrow. At this venue, of course!

Raiko

Sounds good to me. Let's run it by Kutaka and Kogasa.

The Big Concert finished in style.

Tonight was a huge success!

Reimu

Yep. I'm so glad we made it through in one piece.

Reimu

Now everyone knows the "legends" are real, they have somewhere to focus all their passion.

Reimu

The rumors have become fact. Even if it's just temporary, things seem to have calmed down.

Reimu

That goes for the performers and the crowd. For the first time in ages, we actually have some peace and quiet.

Yep, your plan worked out great!

Reimu

Thanks, everyone.

Sakuya

Don't mention it. Things should go back to normal now.

Sakuya

People finally see that concert venues are safe to play at.

Youmu

Some crowd members have a post-concert high, but it's nothing to worry about.

Youmu

There's no doubt about it. The incident's been resolved, Tiny Reimu.

Reimu

Yeah, I think you're right.

Marisa

Ahem.

Reimu

Sooo... what exactly are we supposed to do now?

Marisa

You've got a way for us to get back, right?

Sakuya

Don't worry. We didn't bring you here without a plan.

Youmu

The color's different, but we found another Seal Crystal. It should get you home safely.

Marisa

So there IS a way back home.

Reimu

Yeah, but what's the hurry?

Youmu

What do you mean?

Marisa

Isn't it obvious?

Marisa

Concert afterparty!

Reimu

If this is our only night here, we wanna make the most of it.

Reimu

I'm not a fan of tearful goodbyes.

Sakuya

Hehe, I should've guessed you'd want to stay a while.

Sakuya

Let's round up the others. I'm sure they'll want to get in on the action.

Reimu

...A way back home, huh?

The next day...

Reimu

Phew, that was a ton of fun! It's been ages since I partied all night like that!

Sakuya

Time just flew by. But now it's time to say goodbye to this world.

Youmu

We've said our farewells. Let's get going.

Youmu

That goes for all of us. Me, Miss Sakuya, Miss Reimu, Miss Marisa...

Youmu

And you, Miss Blue Reimu.

Youmu

Home awaits.

Sakuya

Our homes are in different worlds, though. I believe this truly is goodbye.

That's kind of a bummer, huh?

Reimu

I...

Reimu

I'm not leaving yet.

Youmu

What?!

Reimu

I'm gonna stay in this world. Not because anyone told me to. Because I want to.

Youmu

B-But Miss Reimu doesn't have any more Seal Crystals. If you don't go home now―

Reimu

I'll be stuck here. I know.

Reimu

This all started because I was ignorant. Ignorant of this world and of incidents.

Reimu

So I'm gonna stay here and learn more until I'm worthy of the title "Hakurei shrine maiden."

Reimu

I guess you could call it training. It won't be easy, but big me has a lot she can teach me.

Youmu

Training, huh?

Youmu

I doubt there's anything we can say to change your mind.

Sakuya

Agreed. And to be honest, I'm not even sure I would want to.

Sakuya

Just remember one thing.

Sakuya

We'll always be your friends.

Youmu

Always!

Reimu

Right back at you!

Friends forever!

Yukari

That was a blast!

Yukari

It's been a while since I've seen a world brimming with that much energy. A little chaos is fun, don't you think?

I think... I think I LOVE music!

Yukari

Teehee, I had a feeling you'd say that. In fact, I remember you saying so before.

Yukari

Aiming for the top... Being able to lose yourself in something you love... Those are beautiful things.

Yukari

And there's nothing wrong with friendly rivalries where everyone's striving to be the best.

Yukari

Even just getting to see those performers on stage is a miracle in its own right.

But... the fun always ends so fast.

Yukari

Now, now, don't sulk, PLAYER.

Yukari

Every good concert has an encore.

Yukari

Don't you want to see what comes next?

Yukari

Particularly regarding a certain small shrine maiden.

Yukari

Get your glowsticks ready.

Yukari

Because the passion in that world hasn't burned out just yet. It'd be a shame to miss it.

Yukari

Now go on, let yourself fall madly in love with music.

Yukari

After all, what good is it being sane in a crazy world?

A few days after Sakuya and Youmu returned home...

Mystia

So... who asked us to come here all of a sudden?

Kyouko

It was you, right, Tiny Reimu?

Reimu

Yep. Thanks for coming, everyone.

Reimu

There's something super important I want to talk to you all about.

Kogasa

S-Super important?!

Kutaka

Don't tell me there's another medium incident!

Reimu

No, no, it's nothing like that.

Merlin

Come on, out with it.

Go on, Reimu. It'll be OK!

Reimu

...OK.

Reimu

The thing is...

Reimu

We're going to have a festival here at Hakurei Shrine!

Kokoro

Ooh, that sounds like fun!

Merlin

Agreed. But what do you need us for?

Reimu

Well, we're setting up a stage―one big enough for singing, dancing, and playing music!

Yatsuhashi

Wait, did you say playing music?! Does that mean...?

Reimu

Yep, there'll be a concert.

Reimu

I already got the all-clear from big me. The whole idea is to hold the festival and concert together.

Raiko

How come?

Reimu

Because of all the trouble I caused.

Reimu

I stole all your fun. This is my way of, you know... saying sorry.

Kutaka

You don't need to apologize. You were just doing what you thought was right.

Kokoro

Plus, you already organized that huge concert. That was more than enough fun to make up for it!

Yatsuhashi

Yeah, seriously. We all had a great time, and it's a memory I'll never forget.

Reimu

I'm glad to hear it. But that concert only worked because everyone pitched in.

Reimu

Besides...

Reimu

Holding another concert here will be great for the shrine!

Raiko

So THAT'S why you're doing this...

(That's exactly what the big Reimu would do!)

Mystia

Haha! Well, concerts are great wherever they're held. And the bigger, the better!

Kyouko

All right, count us in! Let's make this a festival for the history books!

Reimu

Thanks, you guys!

Kokoro

We're in this together now. Even the drones are going to help out.

Yatsuhashi

You know what they say, teamwork makes the dream work.

Merlin

We'll show you that concerts aren't the only thing we're good at!

E'MOTE

Let's do this!

Yippee!

...Reimu?

Reimu

Let's see... We've still got to finish setting up the food stalls, and the stage equipment's arriving any minute.

Reimu

Whew, this is a lot of work. And there's still so much left to do!

That's why we need to work together!

Reimu

You're right. Thanks. We're gonna have a lot of visitors today, so―

Nitori

Hellooo! Brought the supplies you ordered for the food stalls!

Reimu

Perfect timing.

Reimu

Wait, what's with all these boxes? Are you sure they're all for us?

Nitori

Positive. Look, it says "Hakurei Shrine" right here.

Huh...

Reimu

There's no way the two of us can carry all this.

Kutaka

Umm, hi! I came to help with the food stalls!

Kogasa

And also to see the other us!

Reimu

You two are lifesavers! And if you're looking for the backstage crew, they're over that way.

Aya

Tiny Reimu! I'm here for an interview! Tell me all about that big concert you held!

Reimu

Hey, get away from me! Now's really not the best time. Can't this wait?!

Reimu

There are too many visitors!

Reimu

OK, what next, what next?!

Calm down, Reimu!

Kogasa

Boo!

Reimu

Eeeeek!

Kogasa

Yay! I finally managed to surprise you!

Kogasa

While I'm here, I think I'll grab these big boxes!

Reimu

Hey! You can't just walk off with those!

Kogasa

It's fine, I already know where they're going. Leave the heavy lifting to me!

Kutaka

Deep breaths, Tiny Reimu. There's enough time. Just take it one task at a time.

Kogasa

Hmm... I didn't know you could surprise someone like that. This could come in handy!

Kutaka

I can't believe I'm acting so mature... *cluck of admiration*

Reimu

Y-You're right. Rushing through things doesn't help. I'll try and take it slower and steadier.

Kutaka

That's the spirit!

You two have helped so much since the last concert!

Kutaka

Teehee. Are you trying to make a chicken blush?

Kutaka

I was a total mess when I arrived in this world, though. Things are never easy at first.

Kutaka

But thanks to everyone's help, I got by!

Reimu

Now that you mention it, Sakuya and Youmu said something similar when we were setting up the last concert.

Youmu

Are you nervous?

Reimu

Of course I am! This is my first time doing anything like this!

Reimu

You look super calm, though.

Youmu

Do I? The truth is, my heart's pounding like a drum.

Reimu

Even after all the shows you've done? Weird.

Youmu

Just because I've played a lot of concerts doesn't mean I won't mess this one up. I'm not like Miss Sakuya. She's flawless.

Youmu

She's taught me so much. I've had to push myself just to try and keep up with her.

Youmu

It's been tough... but I still think music is super fun!

Reimu

Fun, huh?

Youmu

I made so many embarrassing mistakes at the beginning. But each time, Miss Sakuya helped me out and gave me advice.

Youmu

I'm only as good as I am now because I practiced over and over again.

Youmu

Don't expect yourself to be perfect right away, Tiny Reimu. Just go out there and have fun!

Reimu

The last concert wasn't that long ago, but it already feels like a distant memory.

I didn't realize how hard a time you were having here...

Raiko

All right, I think it's time we decide the order for the special stage performances.

Kyouko

How should we do it?

Mystia

Rock-paper-scissors seems easy enough.

Lyrica

Or we could draw straws. Everything will be nice and fair that way.

Yatsuhashi

Meh, I suppose... But come on, it's us. There's really only one way to do it, right?

Merlin

A song contest!

Raiko

Count me in!

Kokoro

Sounds good to me. Whoever's song is the most moving wins. Everyone OK with that?

Yatsuhashi

Hold up. If we start playing without permission again, Tiny Reimu might yell at us.

Kokoro

Hrmm, I guess you're right.

Yatsuhashi

We can still have a regular battle―

Choujuu Gigaku

Make that a MUSIC battle!

Reimu

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

Raiko

Isn't it obvious? We're deciding the special stage lineup with a music battle!

Reimu

Would it kill you to just draw straws?

Mystia

Hey, PLAYER! Perfect timing!

Kyouko

We've been so busy we haven't had the chance to sing for you yet!

Kyouko

Get ready for a private Choujuu Gigaku performance!

Reimu

Ugh, I can't leave you alone for a second.

Yatsuhashi

Haha, sorry. We've been obsessed with music for ages.

Reimu

Ages, huh?

Reimu

That reminds me. All of you come from another world, too, right?

Mystia

Yep. Then we got summoned to this one. That feels like forever ago, though.

Reimu

I didn't realize you'd been here so long.

Kokoro

Uh-huh. We got here way before Sakuya and Youmu did.

Reimu

Do you ever think about going home?

Raiko

Sure we do.

Raiko

From time to time.

Mystia

But we're not in any rush.

Kyouko

We've had so much fun in this world. Honestly, it's the best!

Merlin

We've grown so close from jamming together every day. And here, we get to play the music we want, when we want!

Yatsuhashi

Not to mention, Seal Crystals aren't exactly easy to come by. The one at the last concert was totally unexpected.

Raiko

There's so much music and fun that's unique to this world. Why would we be in a hurry to leave?

Mystia

Still, someday we might have to decide to either stay for good or go back to where we belong.

Merlin

But there's no point worrying about that now. There's so much fun stuff to do instead!

Kokoro

You never know what tomorrow will bring. But so long as we're together, there's nothing we can't handle.

Reimu

Wow. You've given me a lot to think about...

Yatsuhashi

Everyone has their own way of dealing with things. The important thing is not to put too much pressure on yourself.

Kyouko

Yeah. We're always here to help.

Kyouko

And so's PLAYER. She's your best friend here, right?

Yep! I'll do whatever I can for you!

Reimu

Thanks, PLAYER.

The day of the festival...

Cirno

Whoa, look at all these people! Trust Hakurei Shrine to throw an incredible festival.

Daiyousei

I heard there's going to be a welcome speech on the stage. Wanna check it out?

Cirno

How's a speech s'posed to stop my tummy rumbling? To the food stalls!

Daiyousei

But if we head to the stage now, we might get a front-row spot for the concert.

Cirno

Good point! Sometimes I think you're almost as smart as me!

Reimu

...And that does it for the welcome speech. Have fun today, everyone.

Kutaka

You heard her, folks! Let's kick this show off with the best little sister band in the world... E'MOTE!

Reimu

Waaait!

Wh-What's wrong?

Reimu

This is Hakurei Shrine. Aka, MY shrine. So that means...

Reimu

I should sing first!

Kutaka

*confused cluck* This wasn't on the schedule!

Reimu

C'mon, let me do this! Formal welcome speeches aren't my style.

Reimu

Performing alone would be kinda boring, though...

(Why is she looking at me?)

Reimu

Mini-me! Let's do this!

Reimu

Huh?!

Reimu

At least let me warm up my voice―

Reimu

Why does this keep happening?!

Reimu

(I can't believe I got roped into performing again!)

Reimu

I'm getting deja vu from the big concert!

Familiar Voice

Go on, Tiny Reimu. Enjoy yourself.

Familiar Voice

There's no need to be nervous. You don't have to be perfect, just be yourself.

Reimu

Was that―?!

Reimu

(They left. I saw them leave. But that was definitely their voices...)

Reimu

Enjoy the sound.

Reimu

Enjoy the moment!

Reimu

It's the opening act's job to hype up the crowd, so that's just what I'm gonna do!

Reimu

You're more fired up than I expected. Let's sing together!

Reimu

(If the two of them were here right now...)

Reimu

(Would I be singing with them, too?)

Cirno

Woohoo! Go, Reimus!

Reimu

You're not a bad singer. In fact, I think you're even better than me!

Reimu

(Sakuya, Youmu... I'm having fun!)

Reimu

Sorry for dragging you back here.

No worries.

Reimu

The festival was a huge success, and everyone had a great time. Mission accomplished.

Reimu

I just wish Sakuya and Youmu could've seen it.

I knew something was bothering you.

Reimu

Yep. Guess I couldn't hide it from you, huh?

Reimu

Tell you the truth, I've been feeling kinda lonely.

Reimu

I thought it was because I missed home.

Reimu

But I realized it was because I missed them.

Reimu

Did you know the first thing people forget about someone is their voice?

Reimu

Their music, all their kind words... One day, they'll fade from my memory.

Reimu

No matter how well I remember their faces, I'll forget the sound of their voices. That's the saddest thing of all.

Yeah, it really is. I miss them, too.

Reimu

But I'm done feeling sorry for myself. It's no fun.

Reimu

Besides, we promised that even if we're apart, we'll always be friends.

Reimu

So I won't forget them. Not now, not ever!

Reimu

I miss them, but it's not like I'm alone here. I have you and all the others.

Yep!

Plus, we're not just friends. We're BEST friends!

Reimu

Heh heh.

Reimu

We sure are.

Reimu

I wonder how long it's been since that day.

Reimu

I've been living in big me's shrine, helping out and training every day.

Reimu

Luckily, I have good company...

Reimu

OK, that should do it.

Are you done sweeping, Reimu?

Reimu

Yep, just did the last of it. Thanks for helping out.

You trained hard this morning AND cleaned. Amazing!

Reimu

Yeah. I've definitely built up some stamina lately.

Reimu

I guess all my hard work's paying off.

Reimu

Anyway, now that we're done here―

Let's head to the concert!

Reimu

You read my mind!

It's the Prismriver Band All-Stars today!

And the Thunder Music Festival kicks off tomorrow!

I'm so excited I could explode!

Reimu

Hehe, I had no idea you were such a music fan. I'm glad I got to see this side of you.

Stop, you'll make me blush!

Reimu

Don't be shy! C'mere, you!

Cut it out! That tickles!

Reimu

Don't forget, we're gonna be busy with the Hakurei Consultation Center again starting tomorrow.

Oh, right!

Reimu

(It was big me's suggestion, but we've turned into a mini-incident resolving service.)

Reimu

(We basically just help out with whatever people need.)

Reimu

(Big me said to start small, take it step by step, and eventually it'll grow. But...)

Reimu

I hope we get a big request soon.

No doubt you could handle it!

Reimu

You reckon?

Reimu

Say, if another medium incident broke out...

Reimu

You would help me resolve it, right?

Of course!

Reimu

That's what I like to hear from my bestie!

Reimu

OK, race you to the concert venue! Ready? ...GO!

Hey, no fair! I wasn't ready!

Reimu

(Things are tough sometimes. And yeah, there are moments when I feel lonely... but overall, I'm doing great.)

Reimu

(I just hope those two are still out there somewhere, rocking their hearts out!)

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