Lossy's Journal

Yukari

*shiver*

Miss Yukari, you're shivering!

Are you really that cold?

Yukari

A-A-A cold front just hit. It'll start snowing soon.

Yukari

Winter's here. The world's about to turn white.

(So this place has seasons, too...)

Yukari

Well, snow probably won't fall HERE.

Yukari

But I bet Gensokyo's already blanketed in snow.

I don't like the cold... but I LOVE snow!

Yukari

Let me guess, you can't help but run out and play as soon as it starts to settle?

How did you know?!

Yukari

Teehee, I had a hunch.

Yukari

Sadly, not everyone's like you. Some people shut themselves indoors.

Bummer...

Don't they wanna build snowmen?

Yukari

The world generally splits into two groups.

Yukari

The first group is all about snowball fights, skiing, igloos, and snowmen.

Yukari

The second group stays warm inside, curled up with a book until spring's warmth arrives.

Yukari

You can think of them as outdoorsy folks and homebodies.

Yukari

There's nothing wrong with either group. But one thing is true...

Yukari

The flame of life dwindles in winter. That's why everyone tries to find something warm to cling to.

Yukari

Some head outdoors and huddle with friends, others stay in and snuggle with family or pets.

Yukari

And those who live alone scooch up close to the fire.

Yukari

It's the cold that makes us seek warmth.

Yukari

That desire gives rise to so many winter tales.

Yukari

In the world you're heading to...

Yukari

People love to venture outside with those they care for.

Is it colder than here?

Yukari

Much colder.

Yukari

So don't forget to wrap up warm. You don't want to catch a cold, do you?

No! I'll wear an extra sweater.

I can't wait to build a snowman!

Yukari

Make one for me, too.

Yukari

The bigger, the better.

In the L2.8 Universe, in the snowy Human Village...

Kogasa

Snow, snow, snow!

Kogasa

Gather the snoooOOOOoooOOw!

Cirno

That's not a real song!

Kogasa

Sure it is. It's a spooky song that I just made up!

I guess that kinda makes it a real song...

Anyway, your outfit is super cute, Kogasa! Anyway, your outfit is super cute, Kogasa!

Kogasa

Thanks! I totally agree!

Letty

Hehe, you're so excitable today. I must say, I'm in a rather good mood, too.

Letty

Winter is here, the happiest season of all. I wish it could stay this way forever!

Cirno

I love it when it's cold out!

Kogasa

Hey, you two, that snow's not gonna gather itself! Do you need to hear the song again?!

Cirno

No! And I've already collected more snow than anyone here!

Letty

I can't wait to see the finished snow sculptures.

I'm gonna make a giant snowman!

Kogasa

That's what I like to hear, folks!

Kogasa

Oh, and thanks for helping out, PLAYER. You're a lifesaver!

Don't mention it!

I'm so excited for the snow festival!

Kogasa

Me, too!

Letty

Ah, snow. The beauty of those delicate frozen crystals is hard to put into words.

Letty

What better way to celebrate them than with a festival?

Letty

It's an honor to be on the snow-sculpture team!

Cirno

Let's gather all the snow we can and make massive sculptures!

Everyone

Yeah!

Nue

Hey, Kogasa! We're done setting up the food stalls.

Kogasa

Thanks, Nue. It didn't take you long!

Nue

The fairies were a huge help.

Nue

But why do you want a shaved ice stall? It's cold enough already.

Cirno

Duh, because shaved ice rules! And eating cold foods when it's cold is the best!

Nue

Hey, Cirno! Thanks for sending those fairies my way.

Nue

They worked super hard.

Cirno

Of course they did! They take after me, their leader!

Cirno

OK, you fairies can take a quick break. Then you're helping us with the snow sculptures!

Nue

I think I'll join them.

Kogasa

Wait, the fairies aren't leaving, they're making snowballs!

Cirno

H-Hey, I said take a break―!

Kogasa

Eek! That snowball hit you right in the nose! I never knew fairies could throw so hard...

Letty

I think this IS their break. They just wanna spend it having a snowball fight with Cirno!

Cirno

Heh, in that case, I won't hold back!

Cirno

Wrooooah!

Nue

Yikes, she's launching snowballs like bullets!

W-Watch out! Some of them are flying this way!

Cirno

EAT SNOW!

Kogasa

Hey, watch where you're throwing! Take a break before you break something!

Cirno

Wait, let me explain! I had a case of snowball fever!

What's snowball fever?

Kogasa

Nothing, she just made it up! You almost wrecked the sculptures, you know?!

Cirno

I'm sooooorry!

Letty

Well, she sounds sorry to me.

Kogasa

Agreed. She's off the hook! Now get back to making sculptures!

Cirno

Yes, ma'am! They'll be done in no time―just watch!

Kogasa

All right, we better get back to it, too!

Nue

Hey, Kogasa. There are some fairies and tanuki headed this way!

Kogasa

They look kinda flustered. I wonder what happened.

Kogasa

Oh, those are the fairies that've been helping us out. And the tanuki are from Mamizou's crew, right?

Nue

Yep. Me and Mamizou are good friends, so I asked to borrow them.

Helper Fairy A

Umm, where should we put these snow sculptures?!

Helper Tanuki A

We can't figure out where to put these food stalls!

Kogasa

O-One at a time, please!

Helper Fairy B

I know! We can put them on top of that building! It looks like a human house, but who cares?!

Helper Tanuki B

Or we could tear down the house and put the food stalls there!

Kogasa

No! And double no!

Nue

Sculptures over there, food stalls here. And don't touch any human stuff!

Kogasa

Thanks, Nue!

Nue

You seem pretty beat, Kogasa.

Kogasa

I-I'm not used to organizing big festivals!

Kogasa

But I'm not about to give up!

Nue

That's the spirit!

???

Well, well, what do we have here?

Kogasa

Hold up! Someone's coming down from the sky!

Tenshi

Where else would I come from? I'm a celestial!

Tenshi

I heard about the snow festival.

Kogasa

Oh, yeah?

Tenshi

Huh, are they your snow sculptures? Pathetic. I'll make you some proper ones!

Tenshi

But I need somewhere to display them. That building over there is totally in the way. I'm tearing it down!

Kogasa

Absolutely not! If you try it... I'll just have to tear YOU down!

Tenshi

Why are you getting in my way?

Kogasa

Because you can't just wreck people's homes!

???

What's that about wrecking homes?

Tenshi

Iku? What are you doing here?

Iku

I could ask you the same thing. Didn't you have errands to run... OUTSIDE the human village?

Tenshi

Ugh, errands are boring. I wanna help set up the snow festival―hey, get off me!

Iku

Sorry, everyone. Enjoy your festival.

Tenshi

LET! ME! GOOO!

Wow, she carried Tenshi off, kicking and screaming!

Kogasa

I-I'm just glad the village is still in one piece.

Nue

It's all thanks to you! You held Tenshi off until Iku got here.

Kogasa

I was pretty awesome, huh?!

Letty

Totally! You've earned some head pats.

Kogasa

Ahh, your hands are so warm.

???

What the heck's going on here?

Kogasa

Eek! Who is it this time?!

Nue

Another crazy celestial?

Reimu

Guess again!

Letty

Oh, it's Reimu. Good evening.

Reimu

It's late. Why are there so many youkai and fairies here?

Reimu

If you're up to something―

Kogasa

We're not! Please don't point that stick at us!

We're just getting ready for the snow festival.

Reimu

You're here, too, huh? Wait, what snow festival?

Letty

It's exactly what it sounds like―a festival about snow! There's going to be snow sculptures and winter food stalls.

Reimu

I figured that much out myself, thanks!

Reimu

Are you sure that's ALL you're planning?

Kogasa

(She thinks we're up to no good!)

Nue

All we want is to put on a big festival that everyone can enjoy!

Kogasa

That's right! We're the organizers, which is why we're here, you know... organizing!

Reimu

Hrrm, sounds like you're telling the truth. But why are you guys in charge?

Kogasa

I guess we should explain.

Letty

Yep.

Reimu

You're all acting so casual. It makes it harder to suspect you...

Kogasa

There's a reason we're doing this.

Kogasa

But it's complicated...

On the day the snow began to fall...

A girl slipped into her brand-new outfit.

Kogasa

Teehee. Teeheehee!

Kogasa

This outfit is way too cute!

Kogasa

But I don't have anyone to show it to...

Kaguya

You're Kogasa, right? Why the glum look?

Kogasa

Oh, it's the stylish Kaguya! You getting used to this world yet?

Kaguya

I'd say so.

Kaguya

Speaking of style, I've never seen you wearing that before.

Kogasa

You noticed?!

Kaguya

I'm very attentive to this sort of thing.

Kogasa

So, uhh... what do you think? Teehee!

Kaguya

It's adorable!

Kogasa

You really think so?! All right!

Kaguya

Let me guess, you're out and about because you want people to see your outfit?

Kogasa

Well, uhh...

Kaguya

Hehe, there's nothing to be embarrassed about.

Kaguya

Actually, there's something I should tell you.

Kaguya

I'm thinking of hosting a snow festival in the village.

Kogasa

Wow, that sounds super fun!

Kaguya

Right? I was looking for a good excuse to get everyone out in the snow, and this seemed perfect.

Kaguya

I'm still in the planning phase, but I'm going to need lots of helpers.

Kogasa

Where's it happening?

Kaguya

Want me to show you?

Kogasa

You bet!

Kogasa

So this is the place! Are those guys setting things up?

Kaguya

Uh-huh. They were kind enough to volunteer.

Kogasa

I'm gonna go say hi. Maybe I'll snag a few compliments while I'm at it.

Kogasa

Behold, my adorable outfit! Tell me how cute it is. And don't hold back!

Kaguya

She skipped right over the "hi" part.

Kaguya

She really loves that outfit.

Kogasa

Hey, little fairy. Isn't this hat great?

Kogasa

Slow down there, little tanuki. What do you think of my boots?

Fairy

It's a nice hat, I suppose. But I'm busy. Move it!

Tanuki

Can't you see I'm hauling snow?! Outta the way!

Kogasa

Hey, what gives?!

Kaguya

They're gathering snow for the snow sculptures.

Kogasa

Snow sculptures?

Kaguya

You know, like giant snowmen. They're a snow festival staple.

Kogasa

That sounds awesome! Can I help?

Fairy

Y-You wanna help?! I guess that's OK...

Kogasa

I just roll the snow into a big ball like this, right?

Tanuki

Whoa, you're a natural!

Kaguya

Impressive.

Kaguya

Have you done this before?

Kogasa

Kinda. I used to build snowmen and hide inside them, then jump out to scare people!

Kaguya

Wow, that's quite the prank.

Kaguya

Actually, the helpers haven't quite figured out how to pack snow properly.

Kaguya

Would you mind teaching them?

Kogasa

Y-You're asking for my help?

Kaguya

Of course. You seem very capable.

Kogasa

Wow... I'm in!

Kogasa

I'll teach 'em all my snowy secrets!

Kogasa

Mixing in a little water makes the snow easier to pack. It's like making a sandcastle!

Kogasa

Ignore the top layer of snow. The stuff below firms up faster!

Kogasa

Make a wide base so your sculpture doesn't topple over!

Kogasa

Sharing tips is fun...

Kogasa

But I feel like I took over as leader.

Kaguya

Well, you certainly have a talent for it.

Kogasa

I do?!

Kaguya

I'm putting you in charge of the snow festival prep. You're a festival organizer now.

Kogasa

Th-This is all happening so fast!

Kaguya

You had fun teaching everyone, right?

Kogasa

Well, yeah...

Kaguya

Then you're ready to lead.

Kogasa

M-Me? A leader?!

Kaguya

Want to know the best part? There'll be plenty of helpers stopping by from now until the festival...

Kaguya

And you'll get to show your outfit to all of them!

Kogasa

That's... That's...

Kogasa

Amazing!

Kaguya

I'll take that as a yes.

Kogasa

I don't believe it!

Kogasa

Why did I sign up for this?!

Kogasa

Kaguya tricked me into becoming an organizer...

Kogasa

But I'm not cut out for this!

Kogasa

No, I need to relax. Kaguya trusted me. The least I can do is give it a shot!

Kogasa

I'll surprise everyone... with my incredible leadership!

Kogasa

First, I need to fuel up! Luckily, Kaguya gave me this drink as a promotion gift!

Kogasa

Bleurgh!

Kogasa

...

Kogasa

It's gross!

Nue

Hey, Kogasa!

Nue

Kaguya told me you're joining the festival crew!

Nue

You OK? You look kinda pale...

Kogasa

Fine, fine. Just had something stuck in my throat. *cough* *cough*

Kogasa

I didn't know you were helping, too!

Nue

Yep! And now you're here, I'm feeling extra motivated.

Kogasa

Teehee.

Nue

You're in charge, right? I better go all out to impress you!

Kogasa

D-Don't worry about that!

Kogasa

...Oh, before I forget, wanna try this?

Kogasa

I got it from Kaguya. It's called Sparkling Hourai Elixir.

Nue

Huh? Is it gonna make me immortal?

Kogasa

No, it's just a regular fizzy drink.

Kogasa

I didn't like it much, but maybe you'll enjoy it.

Nue

Give it here!

Kogasa

Sure! Kaguya gave me loads, so have as many as you like!

Nue

Here goes!

Kogasa

...So?

Nue

Tastes fine to me.

Kogasa

No way! Our taste buds are, like, totally different!

Cirno

Hey, Letty, those guys are gathering snow. Let's go check it out!

Letty

It certainly looks like they're having fun!

Sunny Milk

Luna, Star, look!

Luna Child

I-Is that a snow party?

Star Sapphire

Looks more like a festival. Let's go.

Sunny Milk

Wait up!

Reimu

So Kaguya came up with the idea. Then she roped Kogasa into it, and now everyone's joining in...

Kogasa

Pretty much!

Reimu

Well, as long as you don't cause trouble for the village, I guess it's fine.

Reimu

I'll still be keeping an eye on you, though. So no funny business!

Nue

I told you, everything here's on the up and up! Tell her, Kogasa! Tell her!

Reimu

Why would I believe her any more than you?

Kogasa

Because I'm... the leader!

Letty

That's one smug grin.

Cirno

Listen up!

Nue

Cirno? What's going on?

Cirno

We've got a problem!

Nue

So everyone gathering snow keeps getting attacked by some mysterious group...

Nue

And every time, they have to abandon the snow?

Cirno

Yep. I've gotten multiple reports about it!

Reimu

Seriously?

Reimu

Fine, I'll go look into it.

???

Miss Reimu, wait!

Reimu

Aunn? What's got your tail in a twist?

Aunn

Isn't it obvious? Today's an important day!

Reimu

It is?

Aunn

You're supposed to be doing a purification ritual at the shrine! The person is there waiting for you now!

Reimu

Yikes, I got my days mixed up.

Aunn

The other me is keeping them busy... but you gotta hurry!

Reimu

I can't afford to bail on an actual request.

Reimu

Sorry, everyone. You'll have to handle this without me!

OK. Be careful out there.

Reimu

Right back at you―especially if you plan on going after the attackers.

Reimu

Don't do anything I wouldn't do. ...Actually, scrap that. Don't do anything reckless!

Nue

What now, Kogasa?

Kogasa

I can't keep letting the helpers get attacked!

Kogasa

I'm the leader here, and it's a leader's job to protect people!

Nue

Want me to come with? I can hold my own in a battle.

Kogasa

No, you stay. If they show up here, we need someone to fend them off.

Nue

Gotcha. But if things get rough, send word!

I'm coming with you, Kogasa.

I'm not letting you go alone, Kogasa!

Kogasa

PLAYER...

Kogasa

Fine. But if those attackers show up, hide behind me!

Got it!

Kogasa

OK, let's go!

I was all fired up before, but now I'm out here...

I'm kinda scared.

Kogasa

It's f-f-fine! I can protect you... I hope.

Kogasa

Eek!

Kogasa

D-D-Did you hear that?!

Relax, it was just the leaves rustling!

Kogasa

Phew, you're right. Silly leaves.

Kogasa

Wait! I see something between them. Are they... fairies?!

Kogasa

They're coming straight for us!

So it WASN'T the leaves!

I'm soooorry!

Kogasa

(PLAYER's scared.)

Kogasa

(I have to protect her!)

Kogasa

You wanna piece of me? Come get it!

Kogasa

*pant* *pant* I took them down.

Thanks, Kogasa!

Kogasa

Teehee, piece o' cake!

Kogasa

But why did they attack us? Were they the ones attacking the festival helpers?

Huh? Something's glowing by your feet, Kogasa.

Kogasa

It's buried in the snow...

Kogasa

Let's dig it out.

Kogasa

We're getting closer!

Kogasa

It's... a rock.

No, it's a Seal Crystal.

But what's it doing here?

Kogasa

*gasp* PLAYER, get down!

Those bullets flew right over my head!

Kogasa

We're under attack! And massively outnumbered!

Kogasa

Get behind me!

Kogasa

Uh-oh, they have us surrounded! *dodge*

Kogasa

(I can't dodge all of these at once.)

(Kogasa's gonna get hurt!)

Kogasa

(I can't protect PLAYER alone...)

(Someone!)

Kogasa

(Help us!)

Seiran

This is Seiran. Beginning purifica―huh?

Seiran

Where am I?!

Ringo

*sniff* *sniff* Something smells weird.

Seiran

Wait... is this Earth?!

Ringo

What? How did I get here?!

Kogasa

Who are you two?!

Ringo

Eek, a youkai!

Ringo

Seiran, you're here, too?!

Ringo

Hang on, you look different from usual. And is that a new weapon? It's huge!

Seiran

You're the one who looks different. Did you get younger?

Did the Seal Crystal bring you here?!

P-Please, help us!

Seiran

So this is some kinda rescue mission?

Seiran

Judging from all the bullets flying around, I'm guessing it is.

Ringo

Are those angry fairies aiming at us?!

Seiran

This is Seiran―wait, the transmission's not sending. The signal frequency's right, though... Ah, forget it!

Seiran

Hostiles spotted. They're radiating impurity.

Seiran

Beginning purification!

Kogasa

Whoa, the fairies are dropping like flies! These two are crazy strong!

Kogasa

We better do our part. Let's go!

Kogasa

Boo!

Kogasa

And so we fought on. The battle lasted 100 years, but we finally won.

What're you talking about? That was, like, 10 minutes!

Kogasa

I know! It was just so easy with these two, I couldn't help but mess around!

Kogasa

I had no idea battles could be so fun!

Seiran

Is that youkai all right? She's acting strange.

Ringo

Hey, umbrella lady, don't let your guard down.

Kogasa

Why not? You two can clearly handle this! I'm gonna take a quick na―

Kogasa, watch out!

There are fairies behind you!

Kogasa

Huh?!

Seiran

She's too far away. I can't protect her!

Ringo

She's doomed!

Kogasa

*gasp*

Kogasa

Umm...

The fairies fell out of the sky.

Seiran

They didn't fall. They were sliced down.

Ringo

Whoever did it, they were lightning fast.

Is that...

Youmu?

Youmu

Hm, those fairies were about to attack, so I cut them down... but what exactly is going on here?

Youmu

In fact, where IS here?

(Did the Seal Crystal summon her, too?)

Youmu

Oh, who are you?

Ringo

Hey, Seiran, she seems pretty tough.

Seiran

For an Earthling, sure. Actually, I don't sense many impurities in her.

Youmu

I'd watch your tongue.

Seiran

You don't seriously think we're trying to insult you, do you?

Youmu

Even that question could be taken as an insult.

Seiran

Some people hear what they wanna hear.

Youmu

Says the one reaching for her weapon.

Seiran

You've had your blade pointed at us the whole time.

Seiran & Youmu

...

Ringo

I know where this is heading.

(We gotta stop them!)

Kogasa

Hey, PLAYER.

Kogasa

Do you think it's my fault these three are here?

Wait...

Did you make a wish, too?

Kogasa

Yeah. Did you?!

Uh-huh. And I think the Seal Crystal listened.

Youmu, Seiran, stop!

Seiran

Get back, little one!

Youmu

Stay away or you'll get hurt!

Ringo

Why don't you two stop glaring at each other and listen to her?

No fighting! We'll explain what happened.

Nue

So basically, you and PLAYER summoned those three, and brought them here?

Kogasa

Yep!

Nue

But there's no way to send them home, huh?

Letty

Nue, doesn't this remind you of someone?

Nue

Uh-huh. Cirno and Daiyousei.

What about them?

Cirno

FYI, she's not talking about me. She means that OTHER, super lazy Cirno!

Nue

A while back, they got summoned here from another world.

???

We sure did.

Nue

Nice timing.

Daiyousei

I heard you mention my name.

Daiyousei

Sounds like these new three are in the same boat as me and Cirno.

Nue

Right, it was when Kaguya showed up. You and Cirno were talking about going out in winter, then you saw a flash.

Daiyousei

Haha, that's right. Though Cirno hasn't been out much since she got here.

Daiyousei

Anyway...

Daiyousei

Pleased to meet you all. I'm Daiyousei.

Daiyousei

I wanted to bring Cirno, too, but she's busy.

Cirno

With what?

Daiyousei

She's "gaming."

Seiran

What's that mean?

Daiyousei

I'm not sure. But I think it's got something to do with her new toy.

Daiyousei

Sorry, but in our world, people tend to shut themselves indoors at this time of year.

Ringo

All right, so what do we do now?

Kogasa

Nue and I talked it over, and first, we're gonna find you all somewhere to stay!

Youmu

That's very thoughtful of you.

Seiran

Appreciate it. But Ringo and I are soldiers. We'll build our own quarters.

Ringo

Yep, we're used to living out in the field. Just focus on helping Youmu.

Seiran

It's not that we don't trust you. We just prefer not to rely on locals for shelter when we're in unfamiliar territory.

Nue

Got it. We'll take care of Youmu, then!

Nue

But let me give you a map. I can answer any questions about the nearby terrain!

Ringo

Thanks!

Seiran

We're sorry to be such a burden.

Youmu

It'd feel wrong to accept help without giving anything back. Is there something we can do in return?

Nue

As it happens, there is!

Seiran

If it's easy, I'm in.

Kogasa

For you three, I'm betting it will be!

Nue

With all the attacks, we could really use some muscle!

Nue

We want you to guard the snow festival!

Seiran

So it's a protection job?!

Youmu

Fine by me.

Ringo

It'll be like field training!

Seiran

You're way too casual about this...

A few days later...

Kogasa

Thanks to our new guards, the festival prep's going super smooth!

Kogasa

I should give them some sweets to say thank you!

You've gotten really close with them, huh?!

Kogasa

So have you! And I heard you've been hanging out with Daiyousei, too.

Yeah, but I still haven't spoken to otherworld Cirno.

Daiyousei

In that case, would you like to come visit our home today?

Kogasa

Daiyousei!

Are you sure that's OK?!

Daiyousei

Of course. Cirno's there right now.

Kogasa

Right, you two live together. All right, let's go after we're done here.

Daiyousei

Teehee, I can't wait.

Whoa, is this where you live?

Daiyousei

Yep. We're renting it.

Daiyousei

Cirno, I'm back. You here?

Kogasa

No answer!

Kogasa

But I hear some clicking sounds from the back. What is that?

Daiyousei

Oh no. She might still be gaming.

Cirno

...

Daiyousei

Cirno, I brought some new friends to meet you.

Hi!

Cirno

...

Kogasa

(Sh-She didn't say anything! Her eyes are glued to the screen!)

Kogasa

Umm...

Cirno

Are you enemies?

Kogasa

Are we what?

Cirno

Two enemies spotted. You look rare. Maybe I'll get a good drop when I take you down.

Kogasa

What's that about taking us down?!

Daiyousei

I'm sorry, you two.

Daiyousei

But I suggest you run.

Cirno

Gimme those rare drooooops!

Kogasa

What's happening?!

Daiyousei

Cirno, please! Not in the house!

Cirno

Wait... where's my EXP for beating you?

Kogasa

What the heck is EXP?!

Daiyousei

Cirno, you really need to turn that console off.

What console?

Cirno

Never seen a game console before, huh, little one?

Cirno

Check it out. When I connect it to this screen thingy...

Kogasa

Wow, it lit up! I see pictures!

Now the pictures are moving!

Cirno

That was me. I used this clicky thing!

Kogasa

This is incredible!

Cirno

I know, right?! Look, I can make my character jump!

Can I try?!

Kogasa

Me, too! Me, too!

Daiyousei

Uh-oh...

Daiyousei

The console's never getting switched off, is it?

Daiyousei

Are you here to pick them up?

Youmu

Yes. It was getting late, so Nue asked me to come.

Youmu

All the streetlights are out. It'd be too dangerous for them to walk home alone.

Youmu

So, what have they been doing?

Daiyousei

Well...

Cirno

Switch weapons and shoot!

Kogasa

Whoa, a rare drop!

We finally beat the boss!

Daiyousei

THIS is what they've been doing.

Youmu

So their souls have been absorbed by that small box.

Daiyousei

If you could kindly―but firmly―take them home...

Youmu

Understood. Come on, you two, with me.

Kogasa

Wait! Just five more minutes!

No! Five hundred more minutes!

Youmu

It's bedtime. PLAYER, all-nighters aren't good for young girls. You don't want to be small forever, do you?

I don't care how big I am s'long as I have this console!

Youmu

Don't worry, you'll forget all about it after a good night's sleep. Goodnight, Miss Daiyousei.

Daiyousei

Be careful on your way home.

Kogasa

Brrr, it's freezing.

One gust of night wind and I'm wide awake!

Kogasa

You're amazing, Youmu! You're not shivering or anything!

Youmu

I've spent time in harsher environments than this.

Kogasa

Is your home world really that rough?

Youmu

It's more that I put myself in those conditions.

Youmu

As part of my training.

Youmu

My sole aim is to perfect my swordsmanship. I seek out strong opponents and defeat them.

Kogasa

You're, like, a real warrior!

Youmu

Since arriving in this world, I may have slacked off a bit.

Youmu

My heart feels at peace here. That's not necessarily a bad thing, of course.

Youmu

But there's still some part of me that...

Youmu

*gasp*

Kogasa

Wh-What is it?!

Youmu

Keep your voice down. I sense something nearby.

Youmu

Keep your guard up.

Kogasa

Look over there!

Fairies! Lots of them!

Youmu

Are they the same ones as before? I thought they'd have learned their lesson.

Youmu

Either way, our task is simple.

Youmu

We have to cut them all down.

Kogasa

We did it! Youmu, you were incredible!

Youmu

You weren't bad yourself. Thanks for the assistance.

Kogasa

Praise from a warrior! That makes me a warrior, too!

Youmu

Teehee, you're certainly tough.

Youmu

We should get going. There might be more fairies lurking around.

Kogasa

You don't have to tell me twice!

Kogasa

...Hm? What's that smell?

Kogasa

Smells like... flowers.

???

Ah, such vibrant colors blooming in this white world.

???

Like precious―

Yuuka

―flowers.

Youmu

Who are you?

It's Yuuka!

Yuuka

Oh, you know my name.

Kogasa

Careful. If you stay here, the fairies might attack you!

Yuuka

Thanks for the concern, umbrella youkai. But you needn't worry.

Youmu

Why not?

Yuuka

They won't attack me.

Kogasa

Because you can swing a sword like Youmu?

Yuuka

Teehee, unfortunately not.

Yuuka

But that's OK.

Yuuka

Because I'm Yuuka Kazami.

Yuuka

And it was me who brought those fairies here.

Yuuka

Trying to catch me by surprise, huh? Quite the rude gardener.

Youmu

Impressive. I couldn't track your movement at all.

Yuuka

Upset that I dodged your precious blades?

Youmu

I'm ashamed of my lack of skill. But I won't miss again.

Why did you bring the fairies here?

Yuuka

You probably think flowers don't bloom in winter.

Yuuka

But you're wrong. Winter brings snow blossoms―flowers that fall from the sky.

Kogasa

OK, I'm confused.

Yuuka

In the name of this "snow festival," you are rampaging about, crushing snow blossoms into hideous lumps.

Yuuka

You are all undeserving of beauty.

Youmu

How do you figure that?

Yuuka

Untouched flowers are the most beautiful. Snowflakes are no different.

Yuuka

Pressing them together with your bare hands is like treading on a flower.

Kogasa

I don't like the look of that smile!

Yuuka

Shall we play a little?

Youmu

(She looks ready to attack.)

Youmu

(I have to protect PLAYER.)

Yuuka

...

Youmu

(She stopped...)

Yuuka

What's your name?

Youmu

Youmu Konpaku.

Yuuka

Youmu? Teehee, I see.

Youmu

What's so funny?

Yuuka

You're still a bud. And at this rate, you'll never bloom.

Yuuka

But you knew that, didn't you?

Youmu

*gasp*

Youmu, you OK?

Youmu

...

Yuuka

Teehee, that's enough playing for today.

Yuuka

Until we meet again.

Yuuka

I'll let you enjoy your snow festival for a little while longer.

Kogasa

Whoa, she vanished! What was that all about?

Kogasa

She kept confusing me with all the stuff she said. Maybe that's her ability?

Kogasa

Did you understand any of it, Youmu?

Youmu

No...

Youmu

Not a word.

Nue

You were attacked yesterday?!

Ringo

Wow, so there's a flower-obsessed youkai.

Kogasa

Yep, but Youmu whipped out her swords and sliced her down!

Kogasa

She's super tough!

We should get down on our knees and thank her!

Youmu

Th-That's not necessary. I'd rather you stay on your feet.

Ringo

We totally missed out on the action, huh, Seiran?

Seiran

Even if it was a surprise attack, we should've been quicker to the scene.

Seiran

We failed you!

Ringo

It's lucky Youmu was around.

Youmu

H-Hey, quit hugging me!

Kogasa

But you're the only reason me and PLAYER made it home safe!

Kogasa

This is our way of saying thank you! *squeeze*

*squeeze*

Youmu

I-If you really wanna thank me... let me breathe.

Nue

Hey, let go of her! She's going blue!

Kogasa

Oops! Got carried away, teehee.

Nue

Sorry about them, Youmu. Are you all right?

Youmu

...

Kogasa

Youmu?

Youmu

Do you all think of me as a friend?

Kogasa

You bet! You, Ringo, and Seiran are our new buddies!

Ringo

Hear that, Seiran?

Seiran

Hmph, the Earthlings think we're friends? I-I suppose they're free to think that.

Youmu

Friends, huh? That doesn't sound so bad―

Yuuka

You're still a bud. And at this rate, you'll never bloom.

Youmu

*gasp*

Kogasa

Are you OK? Maybe I DID hug you too tight. How about another one to make you feel better?

Youmu

No, don't worry.

Once the snow festival starts, let's all go together!

Kogasa

Nice idea! We can hit up the food stalls with Youmu!

Youmu

I'll think about it.

Youmu

First, I need to know the festival is safe.

A few days later...

Ringo

Things have been quiet the last few days. No attacks.

Ringo

I'm bored.

Seiran

That's good news about the attacks. But yeah, I'm kinda bored, too.

Seiran

Maybe that means we've fully gotten used to life on Earth.

Ringo

Could be. What about you, Youmu? Settled in yet?

Youmu

Thanks to everyone's help, life here has been trouble-free.

Youmu

...

Are you still thinking about Yuuka?

Youmu

Yes. It seems she's keeping her word about not interfering.

Youmu

But we can't let our guard down. She said she would attack us eventually.

Youmu

For now, I think it's best to keep an eye out for her.

Ringo

Is that Nue? Why's she in such a rush?

Nue

Emergency! Emergency!

Seiran

What emergency?

Nue

Snow festival staff members say their stuff's gone missing!

What?! But Yuuka said...!

Youmu

We can't say for certain she's behind this.

Seiran

Look! I see someone over there!

Ringo

Quick, after them!

Ringo

Aunn?! Are you the thief?

Aunn

Th-Thief?! What're you talking about?!

Ringo

We're asking the questions here!

Aunn

I'm not the thief! Please, you gotta believe me. I'm a law-abiding komainu!

Seiran

You're guilty until proven innocent!

Ringo

What were you doing here in the first place?

Aunn

I heard things have been dangerous lately, so I've been watching over Miss PLAYER and Miss Reimu.

Aunn

That's why I was here.

Aunn

Then you two scared the fluff out of me, so I ran!

Aunn

It's your fault!

Ringo

So you didn't steal anything from the festival staff?

Aunn

I'd never do that!

Aunn

Besides, I'm not a staff member. How would I know where they keep their stuff?!

Seiran

Oh. That actually checks out. But that means...

Ringo

We falsely accused you!

Ringo

We almost arrested an innocent komainu!

Seiran

Yeah, that's our bad.

Seiran & Ringo

Sorry, Aunn!

Aunn

I-It's fine. We all make mistakes!

Aunn

But I can't believe there was a thief around while I was watching Miss PLAYER.

Aunn

I better step up my surveillance strategy to keep her and Miss Reimu safe!

Seiran

I'm glad Aunn forgave us... but we still don't know who the thief was.

Ringo

One step forwards, two steps back.

Seiran

There's someone out there trying to ruin the snow festival.

Seiran

And we need to find them!

The next day...

Kogasa

The big snow sculpture is done!

It looks... exactly like Cirno!

Cirno

Heh, that's right. It's a big me!

Cirno

It wasn't easy, but we made a true masterpiece.

Cirno

Let's give ourselves a big cheer!

Nue

...

Letty

...

Cirno

OK, forget the cheer.

Kogasa

(The mood here is... yikes.)

Kogasa

(It's gotta be because of what happened yesterday.)

Seiran

Seriously?! Where do they keep coming from?

Ringo

Enemies that come in waves are such a pain.

What's up, guys?

Seiran

Well―

Ringo

Seiran, look! They're back!

Kogasa

A-Are those...?!

Seiran

Yep, fairies. A whole swarm of them! This is what, the third time today?!

Ringo

And this'll be the third time we send them packing! Let's go!

Seiran

We finally drove them off!

Ringo

They sure flee quickly.

Yeah, but why were they here?

Seiran

They've been showing up since this morning, playing pranks and stuff.

So Yuuka broke her promise?

I thought she hated the sculptures, not the festival.

Kogasa

R-Right. But those fairies didn't seem interested in the sculptures.

Kogasa

They went straight for Seiran and Ringo.

Besides...

Why would Yuuka want to steal things from the staff?

Seiran

I think this is about yesterday. Someone's trying to divert our attention away from the investigation.

Ringo

Think we should tell them our theory?

Kogasa

What theory?

Seiran

Yeah, it's clear these two are innocent. I see no problem sharing what we know.

I don't understand.

Seiran

After Aunn left, we started our investigation again from scratch.

Aunn

Besides, I'm not a staff member. How would I know where they keep their stuff?!

Ringo

And guess what. The stolen items...

Ringo

Were being kept in an area only accessible to staff members.

Seiran

It would've been almost impossible for anyone else to find them.

Kogasa

B-B-But that means...

Ringo

Whoa, you're sharper than I thought, Kogasa.

Seiran

The thief...

Seiran

Is one of us.

Kogasa

O-O-One of us?!

Seiran

Shh! Keep your voice down!

Kogasa

M-My bad.

Kogasa

But... I can't believe it!

Kogasa

No, I WON'T believe it!

Kogasa

I won't believe that someone on the festival staff is a nasty thief!

Seiran

I know how you feel. But we need to put emotions aside and approach this logically.

Ringo

All of the evidence points to this being an inside job.

Do you have a suspect?

Seiran

One person has caught our eye. Though we can't prove anything yet.

Kogasa

I don't wanna hear it!

Seiran

It's Youmu.

Kogasa

Oh no, I heard it! If only I'd covered my ears faster!

Seiran

The thefts... they all started after me, Ringo, and Youmu arrived.

Seiran

And of the three of us, Youmu spends the most time alone.

Seiran

That's enough of a reason to suspect her.

Kogasa

Yeah? Well, what about you two?

Seiran

...

Kogasa

For all we know, you could be trying to frame Youmu.

Ringo

Good point! That makes us suspects, too!

Ringo

Do you think we're behind this, Seiran?

Seiran

What sort of a question is that?! Of course we're not!

Kogasa

Umm, I was only messing around.

Seiran

Now's not the time!

Kogasa

*sob* Sorry! It's just with everything going on, I needed something to cheer myself up!

Seiran

*sigh* I suppose we're the ones talking about logic and evidence.

Seiran

And it's perfectly logical to suspect us.

Ringo

No! I don't wanna go to Earth jail!

Seiran

Calm down, Ringo!

Seiran

Here's the plan.

Seiran

Kogasa, PLAYER. Follow Youmu tonight.

Seiran

Watch her while me and Ringo aren't around. If she doesn't do anything suspicious, we can declare her innocent.

Seiran

Then, we can start over again and find the REAL thief.

Ringo

In the meantime, we'll think of a way to prove our own innocence.

What do you think, Kogasa?

Kogasa

I'm in! Let's prove Youmu's not the thief!

Ringo

Whoa, someone sounds excited!

Kogasa

I'm only excited because tailing people is super fun.

Kogasa

Can't tell them that, though.

Seiran

You know we can hear you, right?

Kogasa

Eek! Forget I said anything!

Ringo

Be sure to wrap up warm. You're in for a long, cold night.

W-We'll do our best!

Kogasa

I hope Youmu's ready! We're gonna clear her name so good!

Kogasa

Looks like everyone's gone home.

Kogasa

Let the tailing begin!

Yay!

Kogasa

There's Youmu. And she's alone.

Youmu

...

Kogasa

Whoa, she walks so fast!

We've gotta keep up!

Kogasa

Uh-oh. I keep getting the urge to jump out and surprise her.

No! You have to fight it, Kogasa!

Kogasa

She went round a corner. Quick, before we lose her!

Kogasa

She should be right―

Kogasa

Wh-What the?!

Kogasa

Why are you here?!

Yuuka?!

Yuuka

We meet again. I'd love to say it's a happy reunion...

Yuuka

But sadly, I have to eliminate you.

Kogasa

Umm, can't we talk first?!

Yuuka

I won't let you interfere with that flower's bloom.

Kogasa

W-We won...

Kogasa

(But I feel like she wasn't even trying!)

Yuuka, what flower are you talking about?

Yuuka

Teehee, isn't it obvious?

Yuuka

It's Youmu.

Yuuka

I won't let you get in her way.

Yuuka

Buds gather nutrients to endure the cold of winter, waiting to bloom in spring.

Kogasa

Quit talking in riddles! Give it to us reaaaal simple!

Yuuka

The thief... is the person you least want it to be.

Kogasa

OK, that was a BIT simpler.

Kogasa

But we don't want the thief to be someone we don't want it to be!

Yuuka... did you trick Youmu into doing this?!

Yuuka

Perhaps. Perhaps not.

Kogasa

Which is it?!

Yuuka

I didn't trick her. Nor did I force her.

Yuuka

I simply...

Yuuka

Reminded a flower of its truest desire.

Youmu?!

We're surrounded by fairies!

Youmu

...

Yuuka

Fairies act according to their nature. I'm sure these are the same ones who attacked you before.

Yuuka

So then, what does it mean that they came here with her?

Kogasa

It means, uhh...

Youmu

That's right.

Youmu

I'm the one sabotaging the snow festival.

Youmu, was it really you?

Youmu

That's what I said, isn't it?

Kogasa

I-I don't believe you!

Youmu

Why would I lie?

Kogasa

I dunno, but you'd never do something like this!

Youmu

What's your evidence?

Kogasa

Y-You're my friend―

Youmu

I don't have time for the snow festival.

Kogasa

Huh?

Youmu

To me, it's just noise. And noise must be silenced.

Kogasa

Stop talking like Yuuka! Give it to us straight, like a slash of your blade!

Youmu

Very well.

Youmu

I'm the culprit.

Kogasa

Waaaaaah!

Kogasa

Why would you do thiiiiis?!

Youmu

Shedding tears on the battlefield will get you killed, Kogasa.

But we're not on a battlefield...

Youmu

I'm the culprit. And if you want to arrest me...

Youmu

Then this IS a battlefield.

Kogasa

You're holding back, aren't you?

Youmu

What makes you think that?

Kogasa

I can tell!

If something's going on, you can tell us.

Youmu

How can you say that after everything I've done?

Youmu

I came here from another world and accepted your hospitality. You even made me a festival guard.

Youmu

And yet, in just a short time, I ruined all of your hard work.

Youmu

You should banish me from this land.

Kogasa

Friends don't banish friends!

Youmu

We're not friends. At best, we're acquaintances.

Kogasa

Whaaaat? So I'm the only one who thought we were friends?

No, I thought that, too!

Youmu

Friendship is built slowly, over time. And I'm not worth the effort.

Kogasa

You've got it all wrong. We ARE friends! Brand-new, fresh-outta-the-box friends!

Kogasa

And we're just getting started!

Kogasa

Over time, we'll learn more about you, you'll learn about us...

Kogasa

This is just the beginning.

Kogasa

You can't end our friendship now.

Kogasa

That'd be worse than failing to surprise someone!

Youmu

...

Yuuka

Well, Youmu? Are you going to remain a bud forever?

Youmu

No.

Youmu, wait!

She's gone...

Kogasa

Even with all this snow, she's still so quick.

Kogasa

I hope we see her again.

The next day...

Luna Child

*gulp* Tomorrow's the big day.

Star Sapphire

Yep. Despite all the trouble, the snow festival is about to begin.

Sunny Milk

Time for one last push!

Luna Child

I only volunteered to help out on a whim, but now I wanna give my all!

Sunny Milk

Working hard to put on a festival is actually super fun!

Star Sapphire

Who knew?!

(Everyone's working so hard.)

(I'm still worried about Youmu...)

(But for now, I have to focus on the festival.)

Sunny Milk

What's up, PLAYER? You look kinda pale.

Luna Child

Did you catch a cold? It's been freezing lately.

N-No, I'm fine!

I'm really looking forward to tomorrow!

Sunny Milk

Us, too! Let's finish up here and make sure everything's perfect!

Everyone

Yay!

Sunny Milk

Hm? Do you hear that?

Star Sapphire

There's someone nearby.

Luna Child

It's Kogasa and two of the guards.

Sunny Milk

Who are they talking to?

That's...

Yuuka!

Yuuka

Teehee, is this how you welcome all your guests? Those stares are colder than the weather.

Seiran

Is she the one who attacked you, Kogasa?

Ringo

She doesn't look dangerous... but something about her puts me on edge.

Kogasa

Wh-Wh-What are you doing here?!

Yuuka

Someone wants to speak to you. I merely escorted her here.

Kogasa

Y-Y-Youmu?!

Youmu

Stay back.

Kogasa

Eek!

Nue

Not exactly a peaceful entrance.

Seiran

We've got a lot of questions, but let's start with this―why show up now?

Yuuka

I told you. She's here to talk.

Yuuka

Go on, Youmu. Tell them what you came to say.

Yuuka

The final words of a flower bud.

Youmu

I've come to say goodbye.

Kogasa

What?!

Ringo

You can't be serious!

Youmu

I won't mince words. I'm the one who's been sabotaging the festival.

Nue

Kogasa told us... but I didn't want to believe it.

Seiran

We suspected it was you. Normally, it feels good to be right.

Seiran

But not this time.

Nue

So why'd you do it?

Youmu

For my own selfish reasons.

Nue

Look, you made Kogasa cry.

Nue

Why don't you just stop there?

Nue

Step aside. Unless you wanna get blasted first.

Yuuka

We only came to talk. I have no intention of fighting.

Yuuka

Although if you insist, I'll gladly turn you into compost.

Youmu

Yuuka, don't. I can speak for myself.

Yuuka

Very well.

Youmu

After what I've done, I don't belong here. I'm leaving for good.

Youmu

You have my word.

Everyone

*gasp*

(She bowed to us!)

Youmu

Thank you for all you've done for me.

Kogasa

Youmu, wait!

Yuuka

Don't interfere.

Kogasa

Interfere with what?!

Yuuka

If you don't know, then it's no wonder this bud slipped through your fingers.

Yuuka

Chase her down, and you can kiss goodbye to your little festival.

Yuuka

That's not a threat. It's a fact.

*gulp*

Yuuka

Don't ever forget that.

Nue

She left.

Kogasa

...

Nue

You OK, Kogasa?

Kogasa

I couldn't stop her...

Nue

How could you have? Yuuka was in the way.

Kogasa

Even if she wasn't...

Kogasa

I still would've failed.

Two days later...

*sigh*

Reimu

A sigh to start the day, huh? What's up?

I talked to Kaguya yesterday...

The snow festival's been postponed.

Reimu

Huh?

Kogasa

I want to talk to Youmu again. Properly.

Kogasa

I know it might not work, but I can't stop thinking about yesterday.

Kogasa

I don't want things to end like this.

Nue

I know how you feel, but what about Yuuka?

Seiran

She did say she'd ruin the festival if we interfered.

Ringo

Yeah, and something tells me she could destroy the whole venue in a flash if she wanted to.

Kogasa

I know... But we can't give up.

Kaguya

I'm worried about Youmu, too. But, as a festival organizer...

Kaguya

I have to make sure everyone's safe from Yuuka.

You mean...?

Kaguya

I can't afford to take her at her word.

Kaguya

She has the power to crush the festival.

Kaguya

Even the tiniest spark could set her off.

Kaguya

We need to be extremely cautious.

Seiran

So you're saying we need to hold off on the festival?

Kaguya

Exactly. Until Yuuka is neutralized, or we're absolutely sure she won't attack...

Kaguya

The festival is postponed.

Seiran, Ringo & Nue

...

OK.

It sucks, but we have no choice.

Kaguya

I'll tell the others later. We can figure out when to hold the festival based on how the next few days go.

Kaguya

This wasn't an easy decision. I know you've all worked hard.

Kaguya

But I can't risk people getting hurt.

Reimu

So that's what's happened...

Reimu

No wonder I haven't seen any youkai out and about.

With the festival postponed, the prep work stopped.

I guess everyone's staying home.

Reimu

Can't blame them. It's freezing out.

Reimu

Still, Youmu and Yuuka really stirred up trouble, huh?

(Youmu...)

Kogasa

Anyone home?!

Reimu

Wh-What the?!

Kogasa

*pant* *pant* Hey, Miss Reimu! Is PLAYER here?!

Reimu

You'll never catch your breath if you keep shouting.

I'm here. What's up?

Kogasa

I've got something... *pant* *pant* I need to say!

Deep breaths!

Kogasa

O-OK... *deeeeep breath* I came to tell you I made up my mind.

Kogasa

But, first... Miss Reimu!

Reimu

Y-Yeah?

Kogasa

I need to get myself fired up again. Will you battle me?!

Reimu

What?!

Kogasa

Phew, that did the trick!

Reimu

People don't normally smile after losing like that.

Kogasa

Why wouldn't I be smiling? I'm all fired up again!

So, what did you make up your mind about?

Kogasa

Oh, right.

Kogasa

I still want to hold the snow festival!

Kogasa

I don't know what's going on with Youmu, but if we delay the festival, I feel like she'll never come back.

Kogasa

She worked so hard with us to get everything ready.

Kogasa

And not just her. We owe it to everyone who helped, everyone who's been looking forward to the snow festival.

Reimu

Yeah, but what about Yuuka?

Kogasa

I want her to be there, too.

Kogasa

But first, I need to talk to her. Ask her not to interfere.

Reimu

*sigh* It's not the worst plan I've ever heard.

Reimu

But if you're going to talk to someone like that, you'll need backup.

Reimu

Otherwise, she'll blast you away before you even say hello.

???

Waaaait!

???

No one's getting blasted away on my watch!

Reimu

Is there a sign out there that says "Come in. No need to knock"?!

Cirno

Your savior is here!

Daiyousei

Teehee, you're enthusiastic today, Cirno.

Kogasa

Huh? What are you two doing here?!

Reimu

Yeah, spill it.

Cirno

Only if you battle us first!

Daiyousei

Yes. One battle, please.

Kogasa

Whaaat?!

Cirno

We're pretty tough, huh?!

Reimu

You realize you lost, yeah?

Kogasa

They WERE tough, though!

Reimu

So, why are you here? Don't tell me you just wanted some exercise.

Cirno

We wanted to show you what we're made of. You know, as the snow festival's newest guards.

Daiyousei

Miss Kaguya asked us to join the team.

Kogasa

She did?!

Kaguya

I did.

Kaguya

I'm a proactive princess, you see?

Kogasa

You're here, too?!

Reimu

Gotta remember to take down that sign.

Kaguya

After I announced the postponement, Seiran, Ringo, and Nue came and found me.

Kaguya

They wanted me to un-postpone it. They said Kogasa's been working super hard.

Kogasa

Th-They did?! If they were here right now, I'd...

Kogasa

*air hug*

Cirno

What're you doing?

Kogasa

I'm pretending to hug my friends!

Daiyousei

Teehee, you're a funny little umbrella.

Kaguya

Anyway, how could I say no to them?

Kaguya

So I decided the festival is back on. And if Yuuka shows up, we'll be ready for her.

Kaguya

The first step was recruiting Cirno and Daiyousei as guards.

Kaguya

Seiran and Ringo are also setting up defenses to keep the festival-goers safe.

Kaguya

But since everyone was so disappointed we postponed things, I say we go big! Expand the whole festival!

Kaguya

I've already drafted up some upgraded festival plans.

Kaguya

Think of this as our way...

Kaguya

Of getting back at Yuuka and Youmu!

Reimu

Huh. If they show up and see a bunch of new guards, maybe they'll let us talk to them. After blasting 'em a bit.

Kogasa

K-K-Kaguya... am I dreaming?!

Kaguya

Nope.

Kaguya

Now, let's get to work.

With Kaguya's upgraded plans, everyone was hard at work, preparing for the snow festival...

Cirno

Since we've got extra time, I'm making an even bigger snow sculpture than before!

Letty

Careful, Cirno! Don't knock it over!

Sunny Milk

Luna, Star, let's build a huge igloo! Big enough to fit twenty people!

Star Sapphire

Teehee, sounds fun. We can decorate the inside with pretty lights.

Luna Child

And make it so sturdy it won't melt till spring!

Seiran

Phew, snow trench is finished.

Ringo

Wayda go! It looks great!

Seiran

You bet it does. I adapted the trench-digging method in the manual to work in the snow.

Seiran

Now, we can ambush anyone who tries to attack.

Seiran

Next up, I'm gonna lay some traps nearby. Heh, I'm starting to enjoy this!

Ringo

Just make sure none of the festival-goers set them off.

Cirno

The view from this rooftop is great―perfect for sniping incoming enemies!

Cirno

Wonder how much EXP I'll get for taking down Yuuka... *drool*

Daiyousei

You really need to quit gaming so much.

Daiyousei

Teehee. Still, I'm surprised you agreed to be a guard.

Cirno

Believe me, I wanted to keep gaming...

Cirno

But I knew how much you've been looking forward to the festival.

Daiyousei

N'aww.

Kogasa

Hey, everyone! These guys brought us snacks!

Aunn

Onigiri delivery! Made special by me and Miss Reimu!

Reimu

You all seemed beat from the festival prep, so we wanted to help.

Nue

Heh, I remember when you thought we were all up to something shady.

Reimu

Well, I don't think that anymore. I've seen how hard PLAYER and the rest of you have been working.

Reimu

All I want now is for everyone to be safe at the festival.

Kaguya

Who wants a drink to wash their onigiri down?

Kogasa

Bleurgh, not that again.

Nue

Oh, it's that yummy drink!

Kogasa

You can have mine, Nue.

Reimu

Kogasa, you can take the biggest onigiri.

Kogasa

Really?!

Reimu

You're the leader here, right? You need to keep up your strength.

Kogasa

B-But so does everyone else.

Nue

Hey! If she says it's yours, it's yours!

Seiran

Commanders must be at their best for operations to succeed.

Seiran

You're doing a great job as leader. We need you to keep it up.

Ringo

What she said. Now eat up!

Kogasa

You guys...

Aunn

One jumbo onigiri for Miss Leader!

Kogasa

Th-Thanks! *munch*

Kaguya

Don't forget your Sparkling Hourai Elixir!

Kogasa

I still haven't forgotten the last one...!

Three days into the upgraded festival prep...

Kogasa

Smooth sailing!

Kogasa

The prep work has been smoooooth sailing!

Everyone's going all out.

It's thanks to you, Kogasa!

Kogasa

Heh heh!

Kogasa

At this rate, we'll definitely be ready in time.

Kogasa

But we still haven't seen them!

Kogasa

Waaaah!

Kaguya

What are you rolling around in the snow for? Besides comic effect.

We haven't heard a peep from Youmu or Yuuka...

Kaguya

Yuuka said if we chased after Youmu, she'd interfere with the festival. I guess the opposite is true, too.

Kaguya

Seems like she's sticking to her word.

Kogasa

So the festival is safe?

Kaguya

Yes, so long as you give up on seeing Youmu again.

Kogasa

No, I won't stand for―

Kogasa

(Ouch!)

Kogasa

Waaah! I bit my tongue!

Kaguya

(Don't laugh, princess. Keep it together.)

Kaguya

Why don't you go after Youmu?

Kogasa

Huh?!

Kaguya

Go after her. She's somewhere in Gensokyo, isn't she?

Kogasa

But if we do, Yuuka might...

Kaguya

Let her come.

That's not what you said before!

Kaguya

Things are different now. We have new guards and proper defenses.

Kaguya

I only arranged all this so that you could find Youmu without worrying about the festival.

Kogasa

You did it for me?!

Kaguya

I only suggested this festival for fun. But you went all out to make it a reality.

Kaguya

Now, I want to do something in return. Nothing strange about that, right?

Kogasa

Th-Thank you so much!

Kogasa

After today's prep work is done, I'm going to find her!

I'll go, too!

Kogasa

Th-That might be a little dangerous.

Maybe. But I wanna talk to her, too.

And to Yuuka.

Kogasa

Hrmm, how do I say no to that? It's just...

Kogasa

I'm not sure I can protect you alone.

Kaguya

Then I'll go, too.

Kogasa

Really?! But aren't you busy?

Kaguya

With all the guards on patrol, I've actually got very little to do.

Kaguya

I'll protect you both.

Kaguya

I may not look it, but I'm tough. Not to mention immortal.

Thanks, Kaguya!

???

Don't forget about me!

Kogasa

Aunn?!

Aunn

That's me!

Aunn

Miss Reimu asked me to keep an eye on Miss PLAYER, so that's what I've been doing.

Aunn

If she's going to find Miss Youmu, then so am I!

Kaguya

Well, you're not one of the festival guards, so you wouldn't be skipping duty.

Kaguya

OK, you're in.

Aunn

Yippee!

Kogasa

The four of us can look for Youmu together!

Aunn

Any idea where to start?

Kogasa

Nope! The plan is to look everywhere and leave no snowball unturned!

Aunn

Y-Yay...!

No sign of her in the Human Village or around here.

Kaguya

We've come pretty far. I didn't expect to be scaling any mountains.

Kaguya

Hey, slow down, Kogasa.

Kogasa

I-Is that Youmu? ...No, just a tree.

Aunn

Maybe you should rest a while, Miss Kogasa.

Kogasa

N-No way!

Kaguya

Winter nights can lead even youkai astray.

Kogasa

Look over there. Are they... fairies?

Kogasa

They're coming right at us!

Aunn

Are you sure they're not fairy-shaped trees?

Kaguya

No, I think she's right this time.

Aunn

Wh-Whoa! They ARE fairies... and they're opening fire!

Kogasa

Eek! How are we supposed to fire back when we can't see anything?!

Kaguya

Quick, let's get down the mountain and fight them on open ground.

Kogasa & Aunn

G-Good idea!

Aunn

W-We did it.

Kogasa

Do you think those were Yuuka's fairies?

Kaguya

Most likely. Regular fairies wouldn't be so reckless.

That means Yuuka must be nearby.

Youmu, too.

Aunn

I'd say that's a safe bet.

Kogasa

Come on, we're going back up the mountain.

Kaguya

Fine, but we need to be more careful.

Kaguya

Something tells me we won't escape so easily next time.

Kogasa

OK, no fairies in sight!

Kaguya

Then let's keep climbing.

Aunn

Wow, what a view!

Kaguya

The Human Village looks tiny from up here.

Look, the snow festival venue!

I can see Cirno's giant snow sculpture!

Kaguya

Oh, yeah. It really IS giant.

Aunn

It's wonderful!

Kogasa

Seeing it finished like that brings a tear to my eye. *sniff* *sniff*

Kogasa

Someone help me before my tears freeze!

???

Here, use this handkerchief.

Kogasa

*sniff* Thanks.

???

Don't mention it.

Kogasa

Youmu...?

Kogasa

Ahhh!

Youmu

Keep your voice down. You'll trigger an avalanche.

Youmu

Winter mountains are dangerous, you know?

Kogasa

How―

Kogasa

Can you be―

Kogasa

So casual?!

Youmu

I said keep your... Ah, well.

Youmu

The fairies said you were searching for me.

Youmu

It seemed cruel to let you wander around in the snow.

Kaguya

Thanks. You saved us a lot of climbing.

Kogasa

Y-Y-Youmu! Umm...!

Youmu

Calm down.

Kogasa

*inhaaaaaale* *exhaaaaaale*

Kogasa

Can we talk?

Kogasa

I want you and Yuuka to come to the snow festival.

Youmu

If we stay out here too long, we'll all catch a cold. So I'll cut to the chase.

Youmu

Forget about me.

Kogasa

No.

Youmu

...That was quick.

There's no way we can forget you.

Youmu

I see...

Youmu

In that case, I'll have to erase you from this world.

Youmu

You've gotten stronger.

Youmu

Or maybe my blades have grown dull.

Kogasa

Youmu...

Kaguya

Wait, is that why you're doing this?

Youmu

You're sharp.

Aunn

She is? I don't get it!

Youmu

I have a goal.

Youmu

To reach it, I must get stronger.

Youmu

And then...

Youmu

...

Youmu

I've spent time in harsher environments than this.

Kogasa

Is your home world really that rough?

Youmu

It's more that I put myself in those conditions.

Youmu

As part of my training.

Youmu

My sole aim is to perfect my swordsmanship. I seek out strong opponents and defeat them.

Kogasa

You're, like, a real warrior!

Youmu

Since arriving in this world, I may have slacked off a bit.

Youmu

My heart feels at peace here. That's not necessarily a bad thing, of course.

Youmu

But there's still some part of me that...

Youmu

As I got closer to you, my drive faded.

Youmu

My drive to grow stronger as a swordswoman.

Youmu

I see that now.

Kaguya

That just sounds like something you want to believe.

Youmu

If I don't believe it, I won't get stronger.

Youmu

So I'll believe it without question.

Youmu

Only through perfect solitude can I achieve my goal.

Seiran

Look, they're back!

Kogasa, Aunn & Kaguya

...

Ringo

Y-Yeah, but they seem super bummed out.

Cirno

Hey! Did you find Youmu or Yuuka?!

Aunn

Miss Yuuka, no. Miss Youmu...

We found her. But it didn't go well.

Reimu

What happened?

Kogasa

Well...

Seiran

She said she needed "perfect solitude," then left, huh?

Seiran

There was something about that in a field manual. Don't quote me on this, but I think it said...

Seiran

"A soldier must be accustomed to solitude. You never know when you'll be on your own and surrounded."

Seiran

I kinda get where she's coming from. Spending time alone occasionally can make you stronger.

Kogasa

B-But!

Seiran

I said occasionally. Total isolation won't get you all the way. At least, it didn't for me.

Ringo

Soldiers like us usually operate in teams, after all.

Ringo

But it sounds like Youmu's made up her mind for now.

Kogasa

Isn't there some kinda middle ground?

Aunn

Middle ground?

Kogasa

Yeah. Something between always being with friends and perfect solitude.

Kogasa

A-Am I making any sense?

Kaguya

Plenty. I actually think that's a great idea.

Kaguya

Right now, Youmu sees things in black and white. We need to show her there are different ways to go about this.

Reimu

Easier said than done. She's more stubborn than a block of ice.

Cirno

Pfft, sounds easy to me.

Cirno

Games often have two modes: solo and multiplayer.

Cirno

So let's set up an area of the festival...

Cirno

Where she can play on solo mode!

Daiyousei

That's a wonderful idea, Cirno.

Daiyousei

Somewhere that feels isolated, even with people nearby.

Daiyousei

With a place like that, Miss Youmu might feel comfortable showing up.

Cirno

This is just my opinion as an elite gamer...

Cirno

But after playing alone for a while, you sometimes get the itch to play with friends.

Cirno

Who knows, maybe that applies to real life, too.

Seiran

It's worth a shot. I'm in.

Kogasa

Me, too!

Kogasa

We'll do it for Youmu... and anyone else who needs a quiet space to be alone.

Kogasa

This is the final bit of prep for the snow festival!

Yuuka

Worried about the others?

Youmu

I'd be lying if I said I wasn't.

Youmu

That's why we're here, after all.

Yuuka

Still can't let them go?

Yuuka

That's only natural. It takes courage to do so.

Youmu

I'm weak.

Yuuka

Then you know what you need to do, don't you?

Youmu

...Yes.

Yuuka

Well then, all that's left to do is wait for the sunrise.

Yuuka

It's almost time for you to bloom.

The next morning...

Nue

A one-person igloo. Does the outside look OK?

Kogasa

Better than OK! Thanks, Nue!

Nue

All right, just gotta decorate the inside. Let's not waste any time!

Cirno

I brought a game console for the igloo.

Nue

Thanks. You seem to really love it. I didn't think you'd lend it to us.

Cirno

I didn't. I borrowed this one from the kappa!

Cirno

Check it out, it's portable!

Daiyousei

Miss Nitori wasn't thrilled about you taking it, though.

Cirno

This is gonna be the best mini igloo ever. Youmu will be able to spend the whole festival in there without getting bored!

Daiyousei

Yes, but if she does that, we won't be able to talk to her.

Nue

Haha, maybe that wouldn't be so bad. It'd be kinda cool if she turned into a gamer like Cirno.

Nue

If she plays too much, she might even get lonely and come out to find us.

Kogasa

OK, let's hang up the lights inside!

Cirno

The kappa told me colorful lights are best for a gaming den!

Kaguya

Yes, yes, whatever you say.

Kaguya

Let's just finish up here... and move on to the next problem.

Yuuka

Beautiful night, isn't it?

Youmu

...

Yuuka

Are you ready?

Youmu

...

Yuuka

I know I call you a bud...

Yuuka

But you're still allowed to talk.

Youmu

How much do you know?

Yuuka

About you? Only what I need to.

Yuuka

That you will one day bloom.

Yuuka

You've accepted that now. I see it in your eyes.

Yuuka

Oh, are you here to greet us?

Uh-huh.

We thought you'd show up around now.

Nue

We ignored your warning not to look for Youmu already, so we figured, what's the harm?

Cirno

So what's your plan? It's not much further to the Human Village.

Daiyousei

The festival starts in two days.

Cirno

We had to postpone it 'cause of you. The least you can do is give us an apology gift.

Yuuka

You're right.

Yuuka

As a token of apology, I'll let you play with my fairies.

Yuuka

Go ahead, they're all yours.

Yuuka

Impressive.

Yuuka

This kind of attack is no longer a threat to you, is it?

Nue

Maybe you should stop hiding behind the fairies and face us yourself?

Yuuka

Now, now, don't be hasty. You're yet to face my flower.

Yuuka

She's still a bud, but not for much longer.

Yuuka

Are you ready?

Yuuka

She's about to bloom into the most beautiful flower this world has ever seen!

Youmu.

Youmu

Maybe I should've done this from the start.

Kogasa

You really think being alone is better?

Youmu

Kogasa... Why are you even here?

Kogasa

Huh?

Youmu

You live to surprise people.

Youmu

Having friends makes that harder. Remaining unidentified would be your best bet.

Nue

Hey, I'm the unidentifiable one here!

Youmu

...

Youmu

Kogasa, how do you balance your purpose with your desire to be with others?

Nue

(She ignored me! I was just tryna lighten the mood!)

Kogasa

Simple.

Kogasa

I love surprising people. And I love surprising people I care about even more.

Youmu

...!

Youmu

I suppose that makes sense.

Yuuka

Youmu.

Yuuka

Destroy them.

Yuuka

Destroy everything that dulls your resolve.

Youmu

...Understood.

Kogasa

No. I won't let you wreck the festival venue.

Youmu

Step aside.

Is that really what you want to do?!

Youmu

Yes. This is what I need.

Kogasa

Then we'll just have to stop you.

Kogasa

Because I believe that's what you REALLY need.

Youmu

*cough* *sputter*

Kogasa

Let's stop this, Youmu.

Youmu

*pant* *pant* I...

Kogasa

I don't want to fight anymore.

Youmu

No.

Kogasa

I just want to be friends.

Youmu

No!

Youmu

I don't need friends!

Wait...

You just don't wanna have to say goodbye.

Youmu

Of course I don't!

Youmu

I'll have to leave eventually. So what good is it being friends?!

Youmu

Even if I forget all the time we spent together, a part of you will stay within me.

Youmu

And that part will be my one weakness.

Youmu

So I... I...!

Kogasa

I don't know what makes someone strong... but I know one thing.

Youmu

What?

Kogasa

The Youmu that helped us before was cool.

Kogasa

But you're not. You're lame!

Youmu

...

Kogasa

Wh-What's with those looks?! You guys agree, don't you?!

Youmu

Heh.

Youmu

To think you'd see me that way, Kogasa.

Youmu

I've lost.

Youmu

Today, I was weak. And totally lame.

Yuuka

Huh. So you're turning your blades against me?

Youmu

Sorry, Yuuka. But I'm done obeying you.

Youmu

I need to apologize to everyone who helped build the snow festival.

Yuuka

Oh? But I never asked you to obey me.

Youmu

Maybe not.

Youmu

But you tried to lead me down the path you chose.

Yuuka

Hah.

Yuuka

Hahahaha!

Yuuka

It hurts to hear you say that.

Yuuka

All I did was― ...No, never mind.

Yuuka

Do as you please.

Yuuka

But you'll soon realize you've made a mistake.

Yuuka

Heh heh. Until then... farewell.

Yuuka

Heh heh. Until then... farewell.

The next day...

Youmu

I'm sorry.

Cirno

Hey, what's going on?!

Kaguya

Youmu wants to apologize to everyone helping with the snow festival.

Youmu

I disrupted the festival for my own selfish reasons.

Nue

P-Pretty hard to argue with that.

Ringo

True, but as guards, we should've been able to stop her.

Ringo

This is partly our fault, too.

Seiran

We were kinda understaffed, though.

Youmu

Understaffed?

Seiran

It's only me, Ringo, Cirno, and Daiyousei protecting this place.

Ringo

And when the festival actually starts, it's gonna get super crowded.

Ringo

We'd love to have you back on the team, Miss Swordswoman.

Seiran

Gotta say, for an Earthling, you're pretty skilled.

Youmu

Ringo... Seiran...

Seiran

But first, you have to return everything you stole!

Youmu

Ah, about that...

Fairy

Waaaait!

Kogasa

A f-fairy?!

Kaguya

Is it one of Yuuka's?

Kaguya

Huh... I think I recognize it.

Fairy

Waaah, don't point your weapons at me! I'm not here to fight!

Youmu

So why are you here?

Fairy

T-To return these!

Nue

Hey, that's all the stuff that went missing!

Fairy

It's a long story, b-b-but...

Fairy

Sorry!

Fairy

I'm the thief!

Seiran & Ringo

You are?

Seiran & Ringo

No waaaaay!

Seiran

Let me sum this up.

Seiran

This fairy was originally one of the festival helpers.

Seiran

But Yuuka convinced her to sabotage it.

Ringo

And because she was on the staff, she knew where to find everyone's stuff.

Seiran

But while she was trying to steal things, Youmu caught her during a patrol.

Fairy

Uh-huh. She stopped me, but in the end...

Youmu

I heard Yuuka's voice in my head.

Youmu

"This flower has not yet bloomed."

Youmu

I couldn't make it stop. So I let the fairy go.

Youmu

I'm just as guilty.

Fairy

Th-That's not true! I'm the only one to blame!

Fairy

When I saw Youmu stand up to Yuuka earlier, I realized I was wrong!

Kogasa

And that's why you came back?

Fairy

Y-Yeah. I wanted to prove Youmu's innocent!

Youmu

Innocent? I'm anything but―

Kaguya

All right, I've heard enough.

Kaguya

Let's not kid ourselves, Youmu isn't innocent.

Kaguya

So here's the plan: the fairy returns what she stole, and they both apologize!

Kaguya

The end!

Youmu

Kaguya...

Kaguya

And after that...

Kaguya

They can rejoin the staff!

Youmu

...

Kogasa

What is it, Youmu?

Youmu

I'm sorry, Kogasa. I didn't mean to cause you so much trouble.

Kogasa

Y-You don't need to apologize to me!

Youmu

I tried to ruin the festival. But everyone still forgave me.

Youmu

I don't deserve their kindness. And...

Kogasa

Go on.

Youmu

No, I've said enough already. Is there anything I can help with?

Kogasa

Really?!

Youmu

Uh-huh. I can help out between guard patrols.

Kogasa

OK! Let me think...

Kogasa

Umm, I was gonna say we should build an igloo together. But maybe we should wait.

Youmu

Agreed.

Youmu

After all, I'm on guard duty.

Youmu

Don't worry, I have a feeling...

Youmu

This will be the final battle.

Youmu

Kogasa, stay behind me.

Kogasa

No! I'm fighting, too!

Yuuka

My, who said anything about fighting?

Yuuka

Come with me.

Yuuka

Let's go for a walk.

Yuuka

It's already night. Winter days are so short.

Youmu

How far are we going?

Yuuka

As far away as possible from the snow festival venue.

Yuuka

Shh. We're the only ones here.

Yuuka

Us, and these beautiful snow flowers.

Yuuka

But they don't grow together. Only in solitude do they bloom.

Yuuka

I thought you were the same.

Kogasa

So we DO have to fight?

Yuuka

Fight? No. We're simply putting an end to things.

Yuuka

My precious Youmu didn't bloom. It's time for her to be pruned.

Youmu

Not happening.

Yuuka

But you can't prune yourself. You're still a bud.

Youmu

Kogasa, PLAYER. Do you still want to be friends?

Kogasa

Yep!

Double yep!

Youmu

Thank you.

Youmu

I want to be friends, too.

Yuuka

...

Yuuka

Then there's nothing left to say.

Yuuka

Let the battle begin.

Youmu

*pant* *pant*

Kogasa

Y-You OK, Youmu.

Youmu

I'm fine.

Youmu

We won.

Yuuka

...

Yuuka

My hands... They've gone numb.

Yuuka

You weren't this strong when we first battled.

Yuuka

What changed?

Youmu

This time, I was fighting to protect Kogasa and PLAYER.

Youmu

And not just them.

Youmu

Everyone who's helped set up the festival.

Youmu

Losing wasn't an option.

Youmu

And my blades knew it.

Yuuka

Huh.

Yuuka

So you found your own way to bloom.

Yuuka

Fine. You win.

Yuuka

I won't interfere with you or the snow festival again.

Yuuka

This is the end of our story.

Youmu

Yuuka...

Yuuka

Teehee. Farewell, Youmu. I enjoyed our time together, brief though it was.

Kogasa

Wait!

Yuuka

Hm?

Kogasa

The snow festival starts tomorrow.

Kogasa

You should come!

Yuuka

...

Kaguya

The weather's perfect to go out with friends!

Kaguya

I'm so glad the snow festival is today.

Kaguya

It wasn't exactly smooth sailing, but all's well that ends well!

Kaguya

It's all too easy to stay inside during winter.

Kaguya

That's why I wanted to give everyone a reason to get out and about.

Kaguya

I hope this is enough to get EVERYONE outside!

Kaguya

Let the snow festival begin!

Young Festival Attendee

Whoa, that snow sculpture is huge!

Cirno

Heh heh! Of course it is―it's modeled after me!

Cirno

Hey, don't take chunks out of it! You'll put a hole in me!

Letty

Teehee, you sound like you're having fun.

Luna Child

Check out our igloo! It's big, sturdy, and super warm!

Star Sapphire

Come on in, there's room for all of you!

Festival Attendee

It really is warm. All the lights reflecting off the snow are so beautiful.

Sunny Milk

Glad you noticed! We had to get the placements JUST right!

Aunn

Shaved ice! Come get your shaved ice!

Nue

Ooh, I'll take one.

Reimu

Shaved ice on a cold day?

Aunn

It's surprisingly popular! Here you go, Nue!

Nue

B-B-Brain freeze! It's so yummy, though... One more bite!

Reimu

Lemme try. *om nom* Urgh, my head! It's nice not having to worry about it melting though...!

Nue

I know! I'm gonna pour some Sparkling Hourai Elixir on it.

Cirno

The one-person igloo is a huge hit!

Daiyousei

People are lining up for a turn.

Cirno

Everyone loves a cozy gaming den!

Daiyousei

I suppose the villagers don't get many opportunities to play games.

Daiyousei

By the way, how come you're waiting in line? Aren't you on guard duty?

Cirno

*gulp*

Seiran

The snow trenches were a good idea, but...

Ringo

Yeah, I didn't expect the kids to play in them like this, either.

Seiran

We dug them for defense, not hide-and-seek!

Ringo

Can't complain, though. It's not like there's anything to defend from anymore.

Ringo

Wanna take a look around the festival?

Seiran

A soldier mustn't leave their post.

Seiran

Things really are peaceful, though, huh? ...OK, let's go.

Ringo

Yay! Let's ask Youmu to come, too!

Seiran

We'll have to find her first. Where'd she go?

Youmu

...

Kogasa

Boo!

Youmu

Oh, it's you, Kogasa.

Kogasa

Y-You're not surprised at all! You really are a warrior!

Kogasa

I tried spooking people at the festival, but no one got scared. Heh heh.

Youmu

Why don't you try again after sunset when everyone's on their way home?

Kogasa

Good idea! I'll give it a try!

Kogasa

Can I ask you something? Why did Yuuka call you a flower?

Youmu

I'm not sure.

Kogasa

Are you serious?

Youmu

Uh-huh. That's why I asked her how much she knows about me.

Youmu

But in the end, I just had to accept things as they were.

Yuuka

About you? Only what I need to.

Yuuka

That you will one day bloom.

Youmu

I suppose when we first met, her words spoke to me.

Youmu

That's why I followed her.

Youmu

But that wasn't the best path for me. Maybe it would have been once, but not anymore.

Kogasa

Is she at the festival?

Youmu

I haven't seen her yet.

Kogasa

Thought not.

Youmu

The day's just begun. Maybe she'll come later. When she's ready.

Kogasa

True! If she does, I'll be the first to spot her!

Youmu

That's the spirit.

Kogasa

Oh, I almost forgot! What were you looking at before?

Youmu

Just this small snow sculpture.

Kogasa

Right! That fairy made it to say sorry for stealing all our stuff!

Youmu

It's a tiny, fairy-sized tree.

Kogasa

Wow, look at all the pretty leaves!

Kogasa

I wonder what kinda tree it is?

Youmu

A cherry tree.

Youmu

She said the reason she agreed to steal things is because she was longing for spring.

Kogasa

*sniff* *sniff* Something smells good. What could it be?

Youmu

It smells like... flowers.

Youmu

I see now.

Youmu

So THAT'S what you meant.

Yukari

How was the wintery world? Pretty cold, I'll bet.

It sure was.

But it warmed my soul!

Yukari

Teehee, glad to hear it.

Yukari

I'm sure all the wonderful people there helped with that.

Uh-huh. I made lots of new friends.

And built some awesome igloos!

Yukari

Heavy snowfall can be dangerous.

Yukari

But it can bring people together, too.

Yukari

In that sense, it can also provide a home.

You mean, like... as an igloo?

Yukari

Teehee, not exactly. Just forget I said anything.

Yukari

Setting up the snow festival didn't look easy, but it seems like it was a huge success.

Yeah, tons of people came!

Yukari

Then why don't you go back and enjoy yourself a little longer?

Yukari

After all your hard work, you've earned that much.

Yukari

Go to those who brought you warmth.

Yukari

And make memories in the snow.

Yukari

Who knows, the footprints you leave behind may help guide someone else on the path to friendship.

The gang made up with Youmu, survived a showdown with Yuuka, and now were finally enjoying the snow festival.

Nue

Yesterday was a total blast! I can't believe that many people showed up!

Kogasa

Right?! The second I walked in, I was grinning like an idiot!

Youmu

Maybe it was partly because it was the first day of the festival.

Could be, but...

We've got just as many visitors today! Maybe more!

Youmu

That's true.

Nue

Word of mouth is doing its magic. And it's all positive! That has probably made a big difference!

Nue

And the weather couldn't be better!

Youmu

It's warmer than yesterday.

Warm sunshine and clear skies!

Kogasa

Yeaaaaah! I'm all fired up now!

Kogasa

I'm gonna go surprise some visitors! Try and stop me!

Kogasa

BOO!

Nue

Kogasa, slow down!

Youmu

Last night's snow has frozen solid, so the ground is probably―

Kogasa

Ow!

Youmu

...slippery

Kogasa

Owwww, my poor nose...

Nue

Here, use my handkerchief. And try to watch your step next time.

Kogasa

Awww, thanks, Nue!

Kogasa

Anyway! Since we're here, let's make the most of day two and look around!

Youmu

Where do we begin?

Kogasa

Let's go check out that big snow sculpture Cirno made!

Youmu

The one that looks exactly like her? Sure.

Nue

I heard it was packed on day one.

It kinda turned into the festival's landmark!

Youmu

Oh! Speaking of Cirno, she told me something juicy yesterday.

Nue

Spill the tea!

Youmu

Apparently, because of the snow sculpture she made...

Youmu

She got interviewed by a tengu journalist.

Nue

...Wait. Don't tell me it was for―

Kogasa

Aya's newspaper?!

Cirno

Oh yeah! The snow festival's gonna be front-page news!

Cirno

And guess what? I got interviewed for it!

Kogasa

No way, that's huge!

Nue

...Is it? It's Aya's paper. You sure that's a win?

So what'd she ask you, Cirno?

Cirno

Hehe! OK, story time!

Cirno

So yesterday she comes marching up to me and―

Aya

Sooo, tell me! What's the artistic vision behind this snow sculpture?!

Cirno

Prepare to be amazed! The inspiration for this sculpture is... *drumroll* ME!

Aya

Uh-huh, uh-huh. Inspiration: Cirno.

Cirno

Yeah, write it all down! Every word that leaves my mouth is pure gold!

Aya

Of course! I'll quote you word for word!

Cirno

Good! Now let me educate you on my genius!

Cirno

First of all, I'm the STRONGEST fairy, obviously.

Cirno

So OF COURSE the festival needs a giant sculpture of me!

Cirno

And to capture the true essence of "strongest," it had to be BIG!

Aya

Mm-hmm. Uh-huh. Yes, absolutely groundbreaking.

Cirno

And that's the whole vision!

Aya

Delightful! Special edition comes out tomorrow morning―BYEEE!

Youmu

...That was it?

Nue

Wow. That was like two sentences and a flex.

Cirno

My words have depth! She understood that.

Cirno

Oh, look! Letty has the newspaper!

Cirno

The interview's in there! Hey, Letty!

Letty

Oh, hey, Cirno. A tengu kid was handing these out at the gate.

Cirno

Sweet! Let me see!

Cirno

Hm...

Cirno

...WHAT?!

Is it that good?

Cirno

WH-WHAT IS THIS?!

Aya

Extraaa! Extraaa! Truth behind Cirno's sculpture!

Cirno

YOUUUUU!

Aya

Ayayaya? Miss Cirno! Fancy seeing you here.

Cirno

What is this trash article?!

"Ice fairy ditches all other ideas to make a snow sculpture of herself?! Narcissist menace hijacks snow festival plans!"

Cirno

Why does this make me sound like I crushed everyone's dreams?!

Aya

Why are you getting so worked up? I'm simply honoring the intent of your words.

Cirno

Stop making stuff up! Fix it! FIX IT NOW!

Aya

Are you trying to silence the press? Then I'm afraid I'll have to fight to defend freedom of speech!

Aya

Bring it on!

Aya

OK, OK! I'll fix it and print another one tomorrow!

Aya

I'll even throw in an ad for this snow festival. We good now?

Cirno

Hmph, fine! But no more making things up!

Aya

Eh, a little exaggeration is part of journalism, though...

Cirno

That wasn't "a little!" You printed a whole paper of lies!

Aya

Aaaand done! I fixed the article AND whipped up an ad! Brains and speed―what a combo!

Aya

...Hm? Looks like there's a crowd gathering around the sculpture.

Everyone's here to see Cirno's sculpture!

Kid

Whoa, this thing's huge! So cool!

Kid's Mother

Look, that's the fairy it's modeled after!

Letty

Hey, Cirno, come here!

Cirno

Wh-Why?

Letty

They want pics with the model.

Cirno

Y-You mean with me?

Letty

Yup!

Cirno

I don't know...

Kid

You made this?! You're awesome! Picture please!

Cirno

(They think I'm awesome?!)

Cirno

You've got good taste! Fine! I'll pose!

Aya

I'll take the pictures to make up for the article!

Cirno

Make me look good!

Aya

Say onigiri!

Aya

3, 2, 1, ONIGIRI!

With Cirno's photoshoot wrapped up, PLAYER and the gang headed to the next snow festival attraction...

Youmu, Kogasa & Nue

...

Kogasa

Where are we?!

Kogasa

This is not the snow maze we were just in!

Youmu

Kogasa, calm down. Let's figure this out together.

We entered the maze we built, right?

We were walking through it, and we found a tunnel...

Kogasa

But there wasn't supposed to be a tunnel!

Nue

Yeah, it wasn't in Kaguya's blueprint for the maze.

Kogasa

I don't remember us digging anything underground...

Youmu

We built the maze by piling snow to make the walls. There was no reason to dig underground.

Kogasa

Exactly! We didn't even have the tools for it!

Nue

Then how did we end up here?

Youmu, Kogasa & Nue

...

Kogasa

Anyway, let's see where this goes... before some poor visitor stumbles into this creepy tunnel!

Youmu

Agreed. We need to do a safety check.

Youmu

I'll take the lead. Miss PLAYER, stay in the middle. We'll keep you safe.

Kogasa

Look at Youmu going full guard mode!

Nue

I'll take the rear!

Youmu

Appreciate it. OK, let's proceed.

This tunnel is pretty long...

Nue

How far does this even go?

Youmu

Stop.

Kogasa

Wh-What is it?!

Youmu

Someone's here...

???

Don't come any closer!

Kogasa

Aaaah!

Yoshika

Ow, my head's spinning. I need a jiang shi sit-down.

Yoshika?!

Yoshika

Morning! Yoshika Miyako, guard of the Great Mausoleum, is here!

Youmu

But why are you here?

Yoshika

I was diggin' and I ended up here!

Nue

Wait... did YOU make this tunnel?!

Yoshika

Uhh... yeahhh, probably.

Kogasa

Why would you do that?!

Yoshika

Umm... lemme think...

Yoshika

I was at the mausoleum when I heard all this fun and smelled something interesting, so I followed my nose!

Nue

So you just dug your way here?

Yoshika

Yeah!

Th-That's... insane power!

Kogasa

I mean, it's great you're into the festival and all, but this tunnel's kinda a big problem!

Nue

If someone wanders in here, it's game over! It'd become a real maze!

Yoshika

So... that means it's bad? Should I just plug it up?

Youmu

Yeah, sorry you went through all the trouble digging, but we really do need it closed.

Yoshika

No biggie! Didn't mean to stir up trouble. I'll fix it!

Kogasa

Thanks! And hey, you should totally swing by the festival later!

Nue

Through the proper entrance this time!

Yoshika

Maybe I will!

Yoshika

Oh, by the way! While I was digging, I could smell everything happening up above.

Nue

No kidding. We're right below the maze.

Yoshika

The air was packed with the scent of fun! You guys seriously made something incredible!

Kogasa

...!

Kogasa

Aww, thanks! That means a lot!

Nue

I hope that fun vibe keeps going strong.

Yoshika

Oh, it definitely will!

Yoshika

It's only getting crazier by the minute!

Nue

Whew, thank goodness Yoshika actually filled that tunnel back up.

Youmu

Now we can finally relax.

So, where should we go next?

Kogasa

Oooh, I know! Let's go check out that place!

Nue

Uh, what place exactly?

Kogasa

The one-person igloo!

Cirno

Hey, Dai... you think we should go handle this problem ourselves?

Daiyousei

Yeah, she's hogging it way too much.

Cirno

It's 'cause we didn't think soooo many people would come!

Daiyousei

I figured it'd be popular but not "everyone in Gensokyo wants a turn" popular!

Nue

Heeey! Cirno, Dai!

Cirno

Oh hey! Perfect timing!

Kogasa

Let us play on your game console!

Cirno

Trust me, I'd love to let you, but...

Daiyousei

We've got a bit of a problem.

What problem?

Guy in Line

Hey! How long's it gonna take?!

Girl in Line

Seriously, how long are you gonna make us wait?!

Youmu

They seem pretty mad. What's going on?

Daiyousei

There's someone inside the igloo totally hogging the console.

Daiyousei

The line got so long, we had to set a time limit, but she's straight-up ignoring it.

Cirno

We tried asking her to leave, but she wouldn't budge!

Cirno

Yeah, that one's totally addicted to gaming.

Daiyousei

Looks like we've got another Cirno-level gamer on our hands.

Cirno

I'm not THAT bad!

Youmu

That's up for debate. Anyway, I get the picture.

Youmu

I'll go take a peek inside.

???

Begone, foul Demon Lord! Feel the wrath of my sacred blade!

???

What?! Zero damage?! Fine, let's see how thou handlest this!

Youmu

Excuse me, may I have a moment?

???

What?! Seest thou not that I am occupied?!

Futo

Don't interrupt me!

Futo

I must smite the Demon Lord and save the world!

Youmu

You do realize it's just a game, right?

Futo

It's REAL!

She's completely lost touch with reality...

Youmu

Look, you need to put the controller down. There's a whole line of people waiting their turn.

Futo

By no means! I can't save the world if I cease now! Heroes don't quit!

Futo

If thou hinderest my quest, I shall unleash a full boss battle on thee!

Futo

Forgive me. I think the console magic brainwashed me...

Cirno

Honestly? I get it.

Futo

Here, take this back. Its power surpasseth mine.

Futo

...Alas, I must abandon my quest to save the world.

Don't give up!

You can still save it! Just stick to the time limit!

Futo

Oh, good idea! I shall line up anew and take up my mission once more.

Futo

A-And this time, I pledge to abide by the rules!

One hour of gaming per day, max!

Futo

Let me do some fortune-telling to make good the trouble I have stirred.

Futo

Anything thou wishest to know?

Kogasa

Hmmm...

Kogasa

I wanna know whether I'll get to meet the one I've been hoping to see.

Futo

A reunion, thou sayest? OK, give me but a moment to divine what the signs do say...

Futo

All done!

Kogasa

A-And?

Futo

Thou shalt meet them...

Futo

This very moment!

Kogasa

Huh?!

Daiyousei

Next! Step right into the gaming igloo!

Who's that person in the hood?

Hooded Figure

...Hmm. Interesting.

Yuuka

This console actually seems pretty fun.

Kogasa

Oh no, oh no, oh no!

Kogasa

Yuuka?!

Yuuka

Long time no see. Been well?

Youmu

So you came to visit after all.

Yuuka

Not really. I just happened to be passing by.

Nue

Pfft, worst lie ever! Just admit you wanted to come!

Yuuka

...

Nue

Say something! Smiling silently like that is WAY creepier!

Kogasa

Well, since you're here, why not take a look around?

Yuuka

Is there anything worth seeing?

Kogasa

There are tons of snow crystals we worked hard to make!

Yuuka

Hmm... sounds intriguing.

Yuuka

Well then, show me what you've got. Impress me.

Sunny Milk

Aaaaaaaah! Why's Yuuka here?!

Luna Child

Wh-Wh-What do we do?! Should we run?!

Youmu

Relax. Yuuka's not causing trouble today.

Yuuka

I'm not here to squash anyone. Calm down.

Yuuka

More importantly, what is this place?

Luna Child

Ummm...

Sunny Milk

It's a giant igloo!

Star Sapphire

We built it ourselves. Pretty impressive, huh?

Yuuka

The interior reflects light.

Sunny Milk

That's my power at work. Makes the snow shine even prettier. Amazing, isn't it?

Yuuka

Yes, it perfectly illuminates the snow blossoms.

Yuuka

This is actually pretty nice.

Ringo

Well, well... look who showed up!

Yuuka

You don't seem all that surprised.

Seiran

We had a feeling you'd come.

Yuuka

I see. So, what's this super long tunnel?

Yuuka

A playground for kids?

Seiran

It's a snow trench! We actually made it for you at first.

Ringo

Now it's a full-blown playground for kids.

Yuuka

...I can hear all the kids giggling and shouting.

Yuuka

It's oddly comforting.

Seiran

Yeah, I agree. Hearing the little Earthling kids enjoy themselves isn't bad at all.

Aunn

W-Welcome! Would you like some shaved ice?!

Yuuka

A sweet treat? Sure, why not?

Aunn

Thank you! Here you go!

Yuuka

...

Reimu

She seems unfazed. Is she not cold?

Yuuka

Never underestimate me.

Especially not when sweets are involved!

Yuuka

Haha, you're funny.

Reimu

(Wait... did she just laugh?)

Aunn

So? How does it taste?

Yuuka

Snow blossoms with honey. I had my doubts at first, but...

Yuuka

It's actually really good.

Youmu

It's night already.

Nue

We saw this last night too, but man, the lights make everything look amazing!

Kogasa

Yeah! It looks totally different from the daytime!

Yuuka

...

Kogasa

So, what do you think? Do you like our snow crystals?

Yuuka

I've always liked flowers that bloom alone.

Yuuka

But...

Yuuka

Flowers blooming together are really pretty too.

Yuuka

Youmu.

Yuuka

This place is beautiful, isn't it?

Youmu

It is. I kind of wish I could stay a little longer.

Yuuka

That sounds like you're planning to leave soon.

Youmu

I am. There are still things I need to do.

Yuuka

...Hmm. I see.

Youmu

The festival's ending. I guess it's time for me to return to my own journey.

Yuuka

Even if it's a difficult one?

Youmu

If that's the path I'm meant to walk... then yes.

Yuuka

...

Yuuka

Good answer. Then I won't stop you. But...

Youmu

I know. I want to stay a little longer, too.

Youmu

Even if the memories fade someday...

Youmu

I'll stay here... at least until the festival ends.

Yuuka

...

Yuuka

Beautifully said, Youmu.

Yuuka

Truly beautiful.

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Winter Snow Festival

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Winter Snow Festival