Lossy's Journal

Yukari

Hello there, PLAYER. Hard to believe another year's come and gone.

Yukari

Just like a river speeding up into the rapids...

Yukari

Time rushes by in the winter months.

Yukari

Now then, what comes to mind when you think of the year's end?

Christmas!

New Year's Eve!

Choice Selected: "Christmas!"

Yukari

Bingo.

Yukari

You've been a good girl, so I'm sure you'll get wonderful presents again this year.

Continue onto main branch.

Choice Selected: "New Year's Eve!"

Yukari

Bingo.

Yukari

No doubt Myouren Temple's bell will chime again this year. Be sure to keep an ear out.

Main Branch

Yukari

Christmas, New Year's Eve... The end of the year really is packed with fun.

Yukari

Not to mention good food. Roast turkey on Christmas, soba noodles on New Year's Eve. It's the yummiest time of year.

I'm getting hungry just thinking about it!

Yukari

Teehee, you'll have to wait a little longer.

Yukari

Right now, all of the youkai, humans, and phantoms in Gensokyo are feeling festive.

Yukari

Although I'm not sure to what extent phantoms can feel.

Hmm, the phantoms I've met seem like they can!

Yukari

Yes, perhaps you're right.

Yukari

That said, there are also those who choose to spend the year's end with a bit more solemnity.

Solemnity?

Yukari

It comes from the word "solemn." You know, formal and dignified. Perhaps even a little strict.

People like that make me kinda nervous!

Yukari

That's all right. Not many children your age are comfortable in formal settings.

Yukari

Still, there are times that demand solemnity. That's the tricky part.

*gulp*

Yukari

Teehee.

Yukari

Now, you're headed to a world where it's always New Year's.

Yukari

It might sound festive, but it's not immune to the end-of-year rush.

Yukari

If anything, it seems even more hectic than a regular world at New Year's.

Even MORE hectic?!

Yukari

There's no need to panic. But you'll need to give it your all if you don't want the rapids to wash you away.

Yukari

After all, the boundary is about to open.

Yukari

Off you go, PLAYER.

Yukari

I wish you a Happy New Year.

In the L2.9 Universe, where it's always New Year's...

Sekibanki

There she is, headed north-east!

Wakasagihime

Stooop!

Kagerou

Before the year ends...

Kagerou

We're giving you a little punishment!

Why?!

Why meee?!

Somebody, heeeeeeelp!

1 week ago...

Youmu

Huh?

Youmu

A Christmas party at the Palace of the Earth Spirits?!

Uh-huh. Wanna come with me?

???

This is all kinda sudden. But if we're bringing presents...

Reisen

Then I got us covered!

Youmu

Those aren't exactly presents. More like lucky-dip bags!

Reisen

Yes, but if I PRESENT them to people, that makes them presents, right?

Let's put a pin in that. Since you both just got here...

I figured this'd be a good chance to make some friends!

Youmu

It's kind of you to think of us...

Youmu

But we've only just gotten used to the whole constant New Year's thing. I'm not sure we can handle a Christmas party.

Youmu

What if we spoil the fun?

You won't! Everyone's been loving Christmas lately.

They say a good Christmas leads to a good New Year's!

Reisen

Sounds good to me!

Reisen

We've been going all-out to enjoy New Year's.

Reisen

Why not throw Christmas in the mix, too?!

Yay!

I was actually kinda nervous about going alone.

Will you come, too, Youmu?

Youmu

How can I say no to those puppy-dog eyes?

Youmu

With New Year's so close, I was in a good mood to begin with. Christmas party, here we come!

Double yay!

Reisen

What're we waiting for? Let's go!

In front of the Palace of the Earth Spirits...

Reisen

We made it!

Youmu

It looks the same as always from out here.

The invitation says the party should start soon.

???

You three, stop right there!

Youmu

Who's that?!

Rin

Ladies...

Rin

Those outfits are a little too New Year's-y, don't you think?

Utsuho

Yeah! If you wanna get into this party, you gotta take a leaf outta our book...

Utsuho

And up the Christmas vibes!

Youmu

...

Youmu

I knew this would happen!

(Oops.)

Reisen

Things are getting lively already!

Reisen

Let's blast our way in!

Reisen

Look...

Reisen

I wanna enjoy Christmas AND New Year's!

Utsuho

Yeah, we see that now!

Rin

Fine. I guess we can let you into the Christmas party.

Rin

New Year's is a constant affair in this world. So it's not like you'll be the only ones in kimono.

Youmu

Then why did you try to stop us before?

Rin

Mostly because, uhh... we wanted to show off our new outfits.

They ARE great outfits!

Utsuho

Check out this party popper! It shoots out a bunch of confetti!

Whoa!

Reisen

So even on reception duty, you two are fully in the festive spirit.

Rin

Go on in. If you think we're festive, wait till you get inside.

Utsuho

And remember, a fun Christmas leads to a fun New Year's. So don't hold back!

Inside the Palace of the Earth Spirits...

Rin

Christmas has been getting more and more popular lately. Everyone takes turns hosting Christmas parties.

Utsuho

And this year, it's our turn! We're giving it our all to make Lady Satori proud!

Youmu

Huh, makes sense.

Reisen

A Christmas party in a palace. How lovely. Even the stained glass feels Christmassy!

Youmu

So where exactly is the party being held? Don't tell me it's in Miss Satori's room...

Rin

Only WE are allowed in Lady Satori's room today! The Christmas party's in the guest room.

Utsuho

It's this way. It's packed already, so try not to freak out!

*gulp*

Utsuho

Three more guests, coming in!

Wow!

Check out all those Christmas outfits!

Chimata

Welcome to the Palace of the Earth Spirits Grand Christmas Party! Line up here!

O-OK!

You're helping out with the party, too, huh?!

Kanako

Not exactly. She just wanted to use her "Line Up Here" sign.

Oh...

Chimata

H-Hey! I'm simply fulfilling my duty as a marketplace god!

Chimata

Besides, you're only here 'cause you wanted to wear that outfit!

Chimata

What even is it, by the way?! Looks like you're wearing half a tree!

Kanako

It's called a wreath! A CHRISTMAS wreath!

Seiga

Miss Kanako's getup really is something.

Suwako

You're one to talk...

Kutaka

Reisen! Wanna try a Christmas Chicken Bun?

Reisen

They look so good! But... Lady Yagokoro said eating just before bed isn't good for your weight.

Kutaka

Relax! All the calories disappear when you fry them!

Reisen

R-Really? ...OK, just one. Thanks!

Youmu

Everyone's really getting into the spirit already!

Reisen

No kidding! Let's get in there―

???

Merry Christmaaaaaas!

Youmu

Is that...?

Suika

Wahey! Gather round, folks. It's present time!

Youmu

H-Hold up. That's an oni!

Reisen

I know, right?! Gods, oni―this is some party!

Youmu

That's not what I meant! There's no telling what kinda trouble that big Miss Suika will cause!

Reisen

Yeah, I guess you're right.

Reisen

Today was s'posed to be my day off... but how can I say no to a battle?!

Suika

Wahey? I thought Santa got cookies and milk, not a faceful of bullets...

Youmu

Last time I checked, Santa wasn't an oni!

Reisen

Besides, it's not like you took any real damage. You oni are tough.

So... why are you here, Suika?

Suika

I smelled a big ol' party. And I always follow my nose!

Youmu

That doesn't explain much.

Reisen

I guess she means if there's a party, she'll be there.

Wait, did you come here from another world?

Suika

Sure did. And I'm not the only one.

You're not?

Suika

The star of the party's this way. Follow me. Waheeey!

Suika

Wahey! Check out all the people!

Whoa! There's a big crowd around the sofa, huh?

Wait, is that...?

Satori

Go ahead, take the picture.

Satori

No one say anything funny. I need to stay perfectly still for this. That means no laughing.

Tiny Satori looks great in her kimono!

But who's taking the picture?

Koishi

Look this way.

Koishi

Another Satori's trembling. I gotta get a snap of this.

Koishi

Here goes.

Koishi

One more.

Koishi

And another.

It's White Koishi.

She's in a kimono, too. And taking loads of photos.

Youmu

What's going on here?

Reisen

Beats me. But at least we found some kimono buddies!

I say we go and talk to them.

Reisen

Good idea!

Koishi

I got so many good snaps. Heh.

Umm, hi!

Koishi

You want a photo? Sure.

Koishi

Line up. Hurry Up. Silence.

Wh-What? Why's she being so mean?!

She didn't talk to Satori like that!

Koishi

I think you should hurry up and smile. Miss Plushy agrees.

H-How's this? *nervous smile*

Koishi

It's... fine.

Koishi

Now don't move for ten minutes.

Huh?!

Koishi

This camera takes daguerreotypes. It takes time. You have to stay absolutely still.

O-OK...

Reisen

Uhh... I think Koishi's camera has trapped PLAYER!

Youmu

It's almost like she's a prisoner!

Youmu

While she's stuck here, let's go and gather some intel!

Satori

Oh, you're in kimono, too.

Youmu

You're...!

Reisen

This world's Miss Satori, right?

Youmu

Sorry, but I've got to ask... What brings those two to this party?

Satori

I don't know the full story myself...

Satori

But from what I understand, they're like tourists, exploring different worlds.

Koishi

Success! Another addition to my Satori collection.

Satori

After they arrived, they changed their appearance to fit in better.

Satori

But they wandered back here out of habit, found this party happening... and decided to stay.

Youmu

What free spirits!

Reisen

It looks like they're having more fun than anyone else here.

Satori

This photoshoot just keeps going...

Satori

Still, all are welcome at this party. Please, enjoy yourselves.

Reisen

Don't mind if we do!

Youmu

We should wait for PLAYER. I can't believe she's still not allowed to move...

???

Want some fried rice in the meantime?

Youmu

Oh, it's you!

Yuyuko

Here, I'll serve you myself.

Youmu

Lady Yuyuko?!

Yuyuko

How are you, Youmu? Been eating much fried rice?

Youmu

Some, I guess.

Reisen

W-Wait!

Reisen

Why are you so small? And why do you have that MASSIVE wok of fried rice?!

Yuyuko

Don't you know?

Yuyuko

Stir-frying rice wards away evil. It's the perfect dish to eat before the new year.

Youmu

Wow, you learn something new every day.

Reisen

Hold on, Youmu! Let's not get carried away here. Fried rice has NEVER been a New Year's food!

Suika

Ah, I forgot to mention―this Yuyuko's like me. She ended up in this world out of the blue, wok and all.

Reisen

You expect us to believe all this?!

Youmu

Meh, if Lady Yuyuko says fried rice wards off evil, then gimme a spoon!

Yuyuko

I'm sorry for interrupting you before.

Yuyuko

In my world, Youmu always taste-tested my cooking.

Youmu

She did?!

Youmu

In that case... I'll be your new taste-tester. Anytime, any place.

Yuyuko

For real?!

Yuyuko

Thanks!

Youmu

I-I can't see anything with all this fried rice flying around!

Suika

Wahey! Now this is turning into a real Christmas party!

Reisen

Youmu and Yuyuko are being weird... but I guess the carefree vibes are perfect for the end of the year.

Reisen, Suika!

Reisen

Hey, PLAYER! Did the photoshoot go OK?

I think so!

But, uhh... what's going on?

Reisen

Youmu, the Lunar warrior, is facing off against Tiny Yuyuko and her fried rice.

I shoulda guessed...

Why exactly?

Reisen

It's all pretty complicated.

Reisen

And by complicated, I mean confusing.

Forget I asked.

Do you hear those voices?

Rin

Listen up, everyone! It's almost time for the gift exchange!

Utsuho

If you wanna join, gather around my party popper!

Yuyuko

Gift exchange?

Reisen

This sounds right up my alley.

Youmu

Too bad all your "gifts" are just lucky-dip bags!

Suika

They sound like fun gifts to me. C'mon, let's go!

Youmu

Looks like even more people have shown up.

Reisen

Yep. Everyone from Myouren Temple's here. I wonder if there's a gift they're all after.

???

You're a sharp one.

Reisen

Hm?

Nazrin

I'm detecting plenty of treasure in this room. Including the gifts we brought.

Shou

I've been getting more powerful since I arrived. Oh, and FYI, this is my combat outfit.

It's Giant Nazrin and Sparkly Shou!

Nazrin

Hey, who said you could give us nicknames?

Shou

We brought some lovely presents we hope all the youkai guests will enjoy.

Wow, it sounds like everyone brought something!

I can't wait for the gift exchange to start!

Shou

Me neither. I hope you all have a wonderful―

Utsuho

Oh no, oh no!

It's Okuu and Orin! What happened?

Rin

A-All the presents... They've turned into pillows!

Pillows?

The only person capable of this is...!

Doremy

*gulp*

I knew it!

Doremy

H-Hello, it's me, Doremy. You might remember me from all your pleasant dreams!

Nazrin

I'm getting a huge treasure reading from under her hat.

Shou

So you swapped everyone's presents out for pillows?

Doremy

In some ways, yes. But in other ways, no! I was simply giving everyone the GIFT of high-quality sleep!

Nazrin

The reading's spiking. She's still plotting something.

Shou

Then she's left us no choice. I'll purify that wicked heart of yours!

Doremy

This is looking really bad for me, huh?

Doremy

In that case... Doremy Switch!

Doremy

Miss Doremy, fight for me!

Doremy

Why me?!

Doremy

Urgh... why?

Doremy

Poor us. I only wanted to promote my pillows.

Youmu

That was the problem!

Reisen

Yeah! The Christmas party, the gift exchange―they're supposed to be fun for everyone!

Nazrin

I've locked onto the signal from Giant Doremy's hat. Commencing extraction.

Nazrin

*extracting treasure*

Doremy

Hey! Quit ruining my sales tactics!

Nazrin

Care to explain this?

Doremy

M-My hat is like my customer service center. I was just storing everyone's presents there.

Shou

Is that so?

Doremy

I-I'm sorry! I just wanted more people to visit the Dream World.

Shou

I'm sure you had your reasons, but everyone's been looking forward to this Christmas party.

Shou

First, you're going to put these presents back where you found them. Then, you're going to reflect on your actions.

Doremy

S-So I'm off the hook?

Shou

If you promise to learn from your pillowy mistakes, then yes.

Doremy

S-Such kindness...

Doremy

I won't let you down!

Doremy

Enjoy the gift exchange, everyone! Till your next dream!

Reisen

Whoa. Just like that, she gave all the presents back!

Youmu

Well, they do say Bishamonten is the god of victory.

Rin

Now that's sorted, let's get this party back on track!

Utsuho

The rules for the gift exchange are super simple!

Utsuho

While the music's going, keep passing presents to the person next to you!

Rin

When the music stops, the present in front of you is yours!

Reisen

So THAT'S how it works!

Youmu

You can guess who brought what from the wrapping. But the music makes everything fair.

Yep, you can't stop till the music stops!

Shou

I'll toss my gift into the mix, too.

Nazrin

And me. We mice know how to give a good gift, you know?

Kyouko

Wow, check out Miss Shou's gift!

Minamitsu

I've got a feeling something really good is in there.

Ichirin

Unzan says that's the one he wants.

Rin

OK, ladies, everyone got their presents ready?

Utsuho

Looks like they do. Ready... hit the music!

(Exchanging)

*party music?*

(Exchanging)

*party music?*

(Exchanging)

*party music?*

Utsuho

OK, I think that'll do―

Rin

Hold up, Okuu.

Utsuho

What?

Rin

Look over there.

Rin

The Myouren Temple girls are clinging onto Miss Shou's present!

Utsuho

You're right!

Rin

Now's your chance. Use your arm and pop some sense into 'em.

Utsuho

On it!

Utsuho

Hey!

Utsuho

Keep that present moving!

Minamitsu

Uh-oh, busted!

Ichirin

That's exactly what Unzan said!

Kyouko

There's only one thing we can do...

Kyouko

Battle!

Rin

Listen up, you lot.

Rin

The whole point of the gift exchange is to, you know, EXCHANGE gifts.

Minamitsu, Ichirin & Kyouko

We're sorry.

Rin

Good.

Utsuho

Time to start the music... again!

Phew. Looks like everyone got a present this time!

Suika

Wahey, even Santa got one. What a party!

Youmu

I got a lucky-dip bag... But that's exactly what I wanted!

Reisen

Hehe, just wait till you see what's inside.

Shou

...

Hm? What's wrong, Miss Shou?

Shou

Well, I opened my present and...

Shou

Does anyone know what this thing is?

Shou

This is the present I received.

It's a piece of paper. It says...

"Big Boss Ticket."

Youmu

What's a big boss ticket?

Reisen

If I had to guess, I'd say you're the boss now.

Suika

That's great, but... the boss of what?

Satori

Teehee.

Satori

So someone's claimed it already.

Miss Tiny Satori?!

Satori

Drop the tiny!

S-Sorry.

Was this ticket your gift?

Satori

It was.

Satori

I figured it would help spice things up.

Koishi

Another Satori, looking cool. *snap*

White Koishi's taking photos again!

Koishi

Shh. I'm in stealth photographer mode.

Oh, my bad.

(I didn't know she had different modes...)

Suika

Hey, Satori, I'm all for spice...

Suika

But what does this ticket do exactly?

Satori

I'm glad you asked.

Satori

Whoever holds that ticket is free to give orders to everyone in Gensokyo until the new year.

Satori

Get it now?!

Suika

So the holder is the boss of Gensokyo...

Youmu

That's one powerful ticket!

Reisen

You said it. But it's also kinda terrifying.

Reisen

With the right set of orders, someone could turn themselves into some sort of supreme overlord.

Satori

You're right. Things could really get out of hand.

Satori

But don't worry, the "Big Boss" ticket is just for fun.

Satori

You don't have to follow any orders you don't like.

Satori

It's not like this ticket has any real power. Just as much as we give it in the name of fun.

Reisen

That sounds safe enough.

Youmu

But if it has no power, won't everyone just ignore the orders?

Reisen

Maybe people refusing orders can be, like, part of the fun.

Suika

Got it. So what're your orders, Big Boss?

Shou

Umm, let's see...

Shou

We've had plenty of fun at today's party. So for the rest of the year, let's all act with a little solemnity.

Youmu

Solemnity, huh?

Reisen

Gotta say, that's a totally in-character order!

Suika

Yeah, but what's in it for us?

Suika

I'd be more motivated if there was a reward involved.

Shou

OK, how about this?

Shou

In addition to the present I brought here, I have several items worthy of being called treasures.

Shou

Whoever ends the year with the most solemnity gets one of them!

Youmu

That's some reward!

Reisen

Coming from her, I bet it'll be something amazing!

Her ability is literally gathering treasures!

Suika

I'm in! What an epic way to end the year!

Kyouko

So if we act solemn, we get a fancy reward?

Minamitsu

Youkai are allowed to take part, too, right?

Ichirin

Sign us up!

Satori

So you received the "Big Boss" ticket...

Satori

And your orders are to spend the end of the year solemnly. Is that right?

Shou

Yes.

Nazrin

It feels strange calling you Big Boss...

Suika

And whoever acts the solemnest gets an awesome reward, yeah?

Shou

It would be presumptuous of me to call it awesome, but that's the gist of it.

Nazrin

With our abilities, gathering treasure is a cinch.

Reisen

So this is it? The Solemn Year-End Challenge is about to begin!

Youmu

I'm still a little confused, but let's do this!

One question...

Who's gonna judge our solemnity?

Nazrin

Shou, of course.

Shou

Me?

Nazrin

You're the boss, remember? It has to be you.

Shou

Oh, right...

Shou

Very well. I accept my role as judge!

Reisen

So Shou's the boss and the judge? Got it.

Youmu

Just so we're all on the same page...

Youmu

What do you mean by solemn? Like, specifically.

Shou

Good question.

Shou

Let me give you an example.

Shou

Miss Satori is quite solemn. Her posture, her kimono, her demeanor―all very dignified.

Satori

O-Oh my...

Satori

You totally get it!

Shou

On the other hand...

Shou

Miss Chimata? Not solemn. That sign of hers draws far too much attention to itself.

Chimata

Huh?!

Chimata

But I'm a marketplace god. Emphasis on the god! How am I not solemn?

Shou

Miss Kanako isn't solemn, either. She's far too pleased with her own outfit. Just look at that smirk.

Kanako

What?!

Kanako

Admittedly, I'm rather fond of this outfit. But I'm a god. A far more famous one than Chimata.

Reisen

Those examples helped a ton!

Youmu

Agreed. If you're getting carried away, you're not solemn!

Youmu

Let's all be careful not to―

???

Got it!

Kyouko

If being solemn is good, and being not solemn is bad...

Kyouko

Then we should go after everyone who's not solemn!

Say what?!

Kyouko

Big Boss gave the order, so let's all be solemn!

I feel like you're taking this too seriously.

Kanako

Maybe I did get a little carried away today.

Chimata

I know this sign's kinda big. But it was made for major events...

The gods are taking Miss Shou's criticism to heart!

Satori

Gensokyo's been all Christmassy lately. A quiet end of the year might be a nice change of pace.

Satori

Teehee, I'm glad you agree. Things are all going according to plan.

Shou

I only suggested it on a whim, but it seems the "Solemn Year-End Challenge" is being well received.

Nazrin

Hmm, this could be a good opportunity for you.

Meanwhile, in the Palace of the Earth Spirits' courtyard...

???

The "Solemn Year-End Challenge"...

???

Sounds like even youkai have a shot at claiming the prize.

???

In that case...

???

Let's get solemn!

The next day...

Reisen, Youmu!

Reisen

Well if it isn't PLAYER.

Youmu

Fancy bumping into you again.

Sorry for dragging you two into things yesterday!

Reisen

No worries! It was the perfect opportunity to make a bunch of new friends!

Youmu

Same here. If anything, we should be thanking you―

Youmu

Who's there?!

Y-Youmu?

What's the matter?

Youmu

Nothing. Sorry.

Youmu

Did either of you feel like you were being watched just now?

Not especially...

Reisen

Maybe you're imagining things.

Youmu

I suppose. But I keep sensing people behind me.

Reisen

You're just tired from all the fun yesterday.

Reisen

You got pretty excited at the end. You borrowed Miss Kanako's Christmas decorations and carried them around.

Youmu

Oh yeah... With New Year's so close, I just couldn't help myself.

Hehe. Why don't you take it slow today, Youmu?

Youmu

That's a good idea.

Youmu

Actually, I heard a rumor about a great pillow. Reisen and I came to check it out.

No kidding!

Reisen

C'mon, it's window shopping time!

Youmu

Huh? It's PILLOW shopping time. I don't need any windows.

Reisen

Well, whatever we're doing, let's get back to it. Later, PLAYER.

Bye!

(I can't believe Youmu wore Miss Kanako's decorations.)

(I wish I'd seen it!)

Teehee.

???

You just smiled... didn't you?

Huh?

???

You thought about something amusing and smiled.

Y-Yeah, I guess I did.

???

Then as per the rules of the game, I'm afraid you must be punished.

Wh-Who are you?

Grassroots Youkai Network

The Solemnity Enforcers!

The what?!

Sekibanki

Just now, you smiled to yourself.

Kagerou

That violates Big Boss Shou's order to keep the end of the year solemn.

Wakasagihime

Which means...

Wakasagihime

You're under arrest!

W-Wait!

You just smiled, too, Wakasagihime!

Wakasagihime

I did no such thing!

Back in the present...

Sekibanki

I see her! Now she's heading south-east!

Kagerou

We're gaining on her!

Wakasagihime

You're not getting away this time!

Oh no!

???

Miss PLAYER!

Youmu! Reisen!

Youmu

Something didn't feel right, so we came back.

Youmu

Looks like we were right to do so.

Reisen

I don't know why they're chasing you, but let's stop 'em in their tracks!

Kagerou

Urgh, you're tough.

Wakasagihime

Tougher than us, for sure.

Sekibanki

I didn't expect her to have backup...

Sekibanki

But know this. The Solemnity Enforcers will appear anytime someone ruins the solemn vibes!

Kagerou

The game's only just begun!

Wakasagihime

Goodbye... for now!

Youmu

Well, we drove them off. But who were they?

Reisen

They called themselves the Solemnity Enforcers.

L-Let's just go and check everyone's safe!

R-Reimu!

Reimu

'Sup, PLAYER.

Reimu

Youmu, Reisen. You're here, too. Why do you all look so worried?

Reisen

Phew. Reimu's safe!

Youmu

Probably because she's quite solemn. When she's alone, that is!

Reimu

Huh?

Reimu

What're you tryna say?!

N-Nothing! It's fine. Everything's fine.

Reimu

Hmph. If you say so.

Reimu

How come you all showed up here so suddenly?

Well, uhh...

I was attacked by the Solemnity Enforcers.

Reimu

By the what?

Youmu

We don't have all the details.

Youmu

But the Grassroots Youkai Network was patrolling the Human Village and using that name.

Reisen

They attacked PLAYER for not being solemn enough!

I figured you could protect me if they come back.

Reimu

If youkai show up, I'll exterminate them.

Reimu

But this Solemnity Enforcers thing is kinda hard to believe.

It's true, I swear!

Right this second, they're―

???

T-Trouble! We got trouble!

Is that... Marisa and Miss Yuyuko?!

Yuyuko

Big, big, big trouble!

Marisa

Enforcers are coming!

Marisa

Lots of 'em!

Reimu

Marisa? What do you mean, "Enforcers are coming"?!

Marisa

I'll explain everything later. Right now, you gotta help us hide!

Yuyuko

Please!

Reimu

Nothing makes sense! Least of all that giant wok!

Marisa

We can explain that, too. LATER!

Reimu

Urgh, fine. Come with me!

Inside Hakurei Shrine...

Reimu

Seriously, what's with all of you? Barging in like this...

Reimu

This isn't a shelter, you know? Take your problems to Myouren Temple!

Reimu

The only thing I want is your donations!

S-Sorry...

Marisa

The thing is, this whole mess kinda started with Myouren Temple.

Marisa

PLAYER. Think you can check outside without being spotted?

On it!

Kyouko

Miss Marisa! Miss Yuyuko! Show yourselves!

Solemnity Enforcers

NOW!

Uh-oh...

They're multiplying!

Marisa

Well? There are a ton of them, right?

Y-Yep.

Some from Myouren Temple, some not.

Reimu

All right, it's time for an explanation.

Marisa

OK, it all started when...

Earlier that day, at Geidontei...

Marisa

Coming in.

Miyoi

Miss Marisa. I don't see you here often.

Marisa

Things have been weirdly quiet this year, so I've got nothing better to do.

Miyoi

I see. Now that you mention it, it's been quiet here, too.

Marisa

In that case, I'll order a bunch of stuff to liven the place up. What's good today?

Miyoi

Hmm, I'd say―

Yuyuko

The fried rice!

Marisa

Huh?!

Marisa

Y-Yuyuko? ...What's with the wok?

Yuyuko

I'm stir-frying rice as part of my training!

Miyoi

She just showed up today, saying she wanted to "train." I couldn't just kick her out, so I'm letting her use the kitchen.

Yuyuko

I can make all kinds of things! Small fried rice, regular fried rice, and large fried rice!

Marisa

Pretty sure that all counts as one thing.

Marisa

But now I'm suddenly in the mood for fried rice.

Marisa

One regular, please―

???

Not another word!

Kyouko

Don't you know this year's end is supposed to be solemn? You're making far too much noise!

Minamitsu

The Solemnity Enforcers are here to shut you up!

Ichirin

Put down that wok and start acting solemn!

Ichirin

Unzan says the same!

Marisa

Wh-What's with these guys?

Yuyuko

I'll NEVER put down my wok!

Marisa

In that case...

Marisa

We better run!

Marisa

So yeah, that's everything.

Everyone

...

Reimu

I don't feel like that explained anything.

Youmu

No. I'm actually MORE confused than before.

Reisen

The bottom line is you're running away from the Solemnity Enforcers, right?

Marisa

Bingo.

Marisa

Can you believe it? I didn't even get to eat any fried rice!

Yuyuko

I'll make you some now!

Marisa

Shh, Yuyuko. They'll hear you.

Solemnity Enforcers

Keep it solemn!

Marisa

Uh-oh, here they come!

Reimu

Youkai? In the shrine?

Reimu

Not on my watch!

Ichirin

Urgh... So noisy, but so strong...

Minamitsu

The Hakurei shrine maiden was as merciless as always.

Kyouko

We should pull back... and regroup at HQ!

Reimu

What the heck was that? Those "enforcers" were way louder than any of us.

Marisa

Well, we're safe.

We scared them off...

But I have a feeling they'll be back.

Yuyuko

For now...

Yuyuko

How about a fried rice break?

Youmu

That's a new one.

Reisen

Yeah, but my tummy's rumbling.

Reimu

OK, let's take a break.

Marisa

Hold up. Don't you mean...

Marisa

A fried rice break?

The next morning...

Doremy

The year's almost over! It's time to treasure those last few sleeps!

Doremy

Sweet dreams await with the Sweet Sleep Pillow!

(Oh, it's Doremy. I haven't seen her since the party.)

(She's turned into an honest pillow saleswoman.)

(But she's right. The year IS almost over.)

(What's this?)

Satori

Wh-Where should I look?

Koishi

Over here. Right into the lens.

Koishi

Smile!

Satori

*nervous smile*

Koishi

Got it.

Koishi

Let me take another one, just for you, Another Satori.

Satori

Are you sure?!

Koishi

You bet. You can use it as a New Year's greeting card.

Satori

Wow, you're so nice.

Satori

I'm gonna go show this to Orin and Okuu!

Koishi

Heh heeeh.

Koishi

My Another Satori collection grows again. THIS is how you welcome the New Year.

(Aww, White Koishi's taking photos of Tiny Satori.)

Wait, I thought each shot took ten minutes.

What gives?

Koishi

Tch. Busted.

Koishi

Truth is, this thing takes photos instantly. Not to mention I've got mini cameras hidden all over.

Koishi

I just SAY it takes a long time so I can stare at Another Satori's smile.

Koishi

You won't tell her, will you?

Hrmm, OK.

Koishi

Yay!

(I kinda wish I'd never asked.)

Reisen

PLAYER?

Reisen

We bumped into you AGAIN!

Youmu

It's probably because we're always shopping in the Human Village!

Hey, guys!

Any run-ins with the enforcers today?

Reisen

So far, so good! We're keeping an eye out, though.

Youmu

Any idea how they detect people who aren't being solemn?

Huh. Good question...

Maybe they have some way of sensing it?

???

Excuuuse me!

Doremy

Why not buy a Sweet Sleep Pillow before you head home?

It's a Doremy sales pitch!

Doremy

I updated the design based on user feedback. Wanna feel one? They're super fluffy.

Reisen

I've already bought way too much today...

Doremy

Just a touch won't hurt!

Reisen

Wow, it IS fluffy!

Youmu

Really? Let me feel!

(They're both totally caught up in New Year's spirit!)

(B-But maybe that's a bad thing.)

Nazrin

Hm?

Nazrin

I'm getting something.

Nazrin

Someone's smiling to the north!

D-Dowsing! That's how they find people!

Youmu

Are you saying they can use dowsing to detect smiles?!

Reisen

B-Beats me. But Nazrin's sounded the alarm. The Solemnity Enforcers are coming for us!

Youmu

Then there's no choice―

Youmu

―but to fight them off!

Reisen

All right, that's the last of them!

Youmu

New Year's or not, we're still warriors!

Phew. That was a tough one, but we did it.

Nazrin

Oh no you didn't!

Nazrin

Bullets aren't the only weapon in the Solemnity Enforcers' arsenal!

Are they... feathers?

Wakasagihime

It's ticklin' time!

S-Stop! *giggle* I-I can't breathe! *giggle*

Sekibanki

That's a giggle. No doubt about it.

Kagerou

You're coming with us, rule breaker. To the Gate of Solemnity!

Wakasagihime

Right this way!

F-Fine, maybe I giggled.

But it's only 'cause you were tickling me.

This is, like, super unfair!

Waaaah!

Wh-Where am I?

???

A prison for those who lack solemnity.

Miss Yuyuko?!

What are you doing here?

Yuyuko

I was just making fried rice.

Yuyuko

But Nazrin declared me "not solemn," and locked me in here.

Oh no...

Yuyuko

All I wanted was to train my wok skills.

This is so unfair.

Do you know where this prison is?

Yuyuko

I overheard the Solemnity Enforcers talking earlier.

Yuyuko

They said we're below Myouren Temple. They've taken this area as their own.

Yuyuko

That door over there leads to the Hall of Dreams' Great Mausoleum.

Yuyuko

But the enforcers are calling it the Gate of Solemnity.

Yuyuko

Standing before it does make you feel kind of solemn.

Yeah, you're right.

???

You there, in front of the gate. Smile!

A photoshoot? Here?!

There's only one person this could be...

Koishi!

Koishi

Happy NY.

It's not the new year yet!

Koishi

Whatever. It's not like you're a Solemnity Enforcer.

Koishi

Wanna see the photo I took?

Koishi

You both look great.

Yuyuko

Really?!

Let me see...

(Uh-oh, I think I'm about to smile!)

???

Be more solemn!

I knew it!

Kyouko

This is the Gate of Solemnity. Let's keep things solemn!

Ichirin

Unzan says a solemn end of the year is a good end of the year.

Yuyuko

It's the Solemnity Enforcers!

Koishi

I'm gonna get a quick photo. *snap*

Minamitsu

Hey!

Minamitsu

We dragged you all the way here. The least you can do is reflect on your actions!

Koishi

What actions?

Koishi

I've been solemn the whole time.

Kyouko

S-Somebody get this photographer a dictionary!

Ichirin

Anyone who takes as many photos as you is NOT solemn!

(Uh-oh, everyone's shouting!)

(Is this really what Miss Shou wanted?)

Yuyuko

Psst, Miss PLAYER.

What?

Yuyuko

Let's get outta here while their attention's on Miss Koishi!

Good idea!

Where are we?

Yuyuko

I was thrown into that prison pretty early on. I spent the whole day observing everyone.

Yuyuko

And I noticed a side passage near the gate. The Solemnity Enforcers and their higher-ups use it!

So that passage leads to this cave?

Yuyuko

Yep! But as you can see, it's a tight squeeze. I can't fit through with my wok!

Bummer...

Can't you just, you know... leave it behind?

Yuyuko

Absolutely not!

O-OK.

Yuyuko

Luckily, you're small and nimble. I want you to scout ahead!

Yuyuko

It's our best bet of finding a way out of here. For everyone!

Got it!

It's a little scary... but here I go!

Yuyuko

Thank you, Miss PLAYER!

Yuyuko

Be careful! I'll be here, praying for your success... and heaps of fried rice!

...Thanks?

I've come pretty far.

Surely I'll bump into someone soon.

Shou

...

(It's Miss Shou!)

(She's the boss of Gensokyo. If I talk to her...)

(Maybe I can convince her to end all this.)

Hi, Miss Shou!

Solemnity Enforcer A

Did you hear that?!

Solemnity Enforcer B

Intruder spotted!

E-Enforcers? Here?!

I have no one to defend me...

I'll have to fight them myself!

Phew, I beat them.

Miss Shou! You gotta listen to me!

Shou

*sob* *sob*

(Is she crying? This doesn't make any sense.)

(This whole challenge was her idea.)

Everything all right, Miss Shou?

Shou

Oh, Miss PLAYER.

Shou

What should I do?

Huh?

Shou

...What should I do?

Shou

This Solemn Challenge has done a number on me.

Shou

Is this outfit too showy? Maybe I should dye it black?

I-I wouldn't do that!

Shou

Why not?

People will start thinking you're a villain.

Shou

Oh... I don't want that.

This challenge was your idea, right?

Can't you just tell everyone it's over?

Shou

That's... easier said than done.

What do you mean?

Shou

I'm sure everyone assumes I'm the Solemnity Enforcers' leader. But actually...

Shou

They formed on their own. All to claim the reward I promised.

Shou

The truth is, I haven't given them any orders. Not one.

Whoa...

Shou

Yes. "Whoa," indeed.

But if the enforcers are doing this for the reward...

They must think this is what you want.

If you tell them otherwise...

Maybe they'll all stop.

Shou

I had the same thought. I was going to confront them, but...

But?

???

I stopped her.

Suika

Why let all this festival hype go to waste?

G-Giant Suika!

Suika

Don't act so surprised. We met, like, a couple of days ago.

Suika

Anyway, the festival's only just beginning.

This challenge isn't a festival, though...

Suika

Wahey! You really don't get it, huh?

Suika

This challenge has a reward on offer for making people act solemn.

Suika

So long as you claim to be enforcing solemnity, you're free to rampage through Gensokyo.

Suika

A reward, an excuse to go wild... For an oni like me, it's the ultimate festival.

Suika

I can't let Shou chicken out and shut it down.

Suika

So I've been keeping her locked up.

I don't believe it...

Miss Shou, let's go and stop the enforcers!

Shou

B-But...

Shou

Suika has a point. I started all this. And everyone does seem to be enjoying themselves.

You don't mean that.

You're only saying that 'cause you're upset.

This is awful...

Look what you've done to her, Suika!

Suika

Hey, don't get so worked up.

Suika

Just get out there and enjoy the festival.

This isn't a festival. At least, not to me!

Suika

Oh, yeah?

Suika

Why don't you show me YOUR kind of festival?

Take this!

Suika

Huh...

Shou

D-Did you get her?!

Suika

Have you forgotten?

Suika

I can control density and sparseness.

Shou

L-Let go of her!

Urgh...

No fair!

Back by the Gate of Solemnity...

Yuyuko

*fidget* *fidget*

Yuyuko

It's been ages since I sent Miss PLAYER off. My fried rice has gone cold.

Yuyuko

I hope she's all right.

Suika

Wahey.

Suika

You kids been waiting solemnly?

Suika

Santa's brought you a present!

Eek!

Yuyuko

Miss PLAYER?!

I think I'm the present...

Suika

You better keep things solemn here.

Suika

If you don't, I'll set an oni on you... ME!

Yuyuko

Miss PLAYER, are you all right?!

I-I think so.

What about you?

Yuyuko

I-I've been better...

Yuyuko

I'm having a hard time with the whole oni-Santa thing... but I'll be OK!

Yuyuko

There's a slight problem, though.

What is it?

Yuyuko

It's not really an IT. More of a SHE―

Yuyuko

Eek!

Koishi

Gotcha.

Koishi

Hrrm, no smile.

Yuyuko

Wh-Why would I be smiling?!

Yuyuko

If I smiled for a photo, the Solemnity Enforcers would be all over me.

Wait, is Koishi the problem?

Yuyuko

Yes. Her and that camera.

Yuyuko

She keeps asking me to smile, but how can I?

Koishi

Everyone smiles for photos, you know?

Yuyuko

Yes, but...

Hmm, Koishi's right... kind of.

New Year's without smiles is weird.

Koishi

Super weird.

Yuyuko

When you put it that way...!

Koishi

Hey, I got an idea. Wanna team up? I already thought of a name we could use.

Yuyuko

You did...?

Koishi

The Solemnity Rebels.

So, we were hoping you'd join us, Doremy.

Doremy

Sure! I'd do anything to escape and get back to selling pillows!

Doremy

One question.

Doremy

What exactly do the Solemnity Rebels do?

Oh, uhh...

Koishi, any idea?

Koishi

Don't look at me.

What?!

Koishi

The only thing I know is that we're gonna put a stop to the Solemn Year-End Challenge.

R-Right.

So yeah, that's all we got so far.

Doremy

You're not really filling me with confidence.

Doremy

If anything, I'm filled with doubt.

Y-You and me both.

What should we do, Miss Yuyuko?!

Is this the end of the Solemnity Rebels?!

Yuyuko

I agreed to join on a whim... but it'd be a shame to disband so soon.

Yuyuko

The only thing that needs to be separated are grains of fried rice.

That... actually makes sense!

Yuyuko

Why don't we put our heads together and figure out a plan?

OK!

Welcome to the first Solemnity Rebels meeting!

Yuyuko

Yay, an official meeting!

Doremy

Now it feels like we're a real team!

Koishi

Let's take a photo to celebrate.

Stop! No photos during meetings!

Koishi

Can't stop. Need to rebel against solemnity.

I-I see...

Doremy

That's a pretty convincing argument. No wonder you're our founder.

OK, photos ARE allowed! Let's start the meeting!

Koishi

Fine by me!

(That was super not solemn!)

Doremy

So how exactly are we gonna rebel?

Yuyuko

Our goal is to stop the Solemn Year-End Challenge, right?

Koishi

Right.

Yuyuko

So, stopping the challenge means we win, yes?

Koishi

Yes.

(Are all photographers this blunt?!)

Yuyuko

In that case, I have a wonderful idea!

You do?!

Yuyuko

The easiest way to end the challenge is―

???

What are you lot up to?!

Doremy

I know that voice!

Doremy

It's Miss Clownpiece!

Clownpiece

Who are you calling Miss Clownpiece?

Clownpiece

The name's Miss New Solemnity Enforcers Recruit Clownpiece!

(I'm never gonna remember all that.)

Clownpiece

And dealing with troublemakers like you is my new job!

Clownpiece

Urgh, you're tougher than you look. But I'm not alone...

Kyouko

Miss Clownpiece, are you all right?

Suika

Wahey! I brought medicine for ya!

Kagerou

Our fight's only just beginning. Let's hit the Retry button!

Uh-oh, Clownpiece is back on her feet!

Clownpiece

Heh heh heh.

Clownpiece

Check out all my friends!

Clownpiece

Do you get it now? You can't win! Mwahaha!

Kyouko

Um, Miss Clownpiece.

Kyouko

Did you just...

Kyouko

Laugh?

Clownpiece

N-No... Maybe. I-It wasn't a LAUGH laugh. It was an EVIL laugh!

Kyouko

It wasn't very solemn!

Clownpiece

Ahhhh!

Still by the Gate of Solemnity...

Clownpiece

Wh-Why am I a prisoner?

Doremy

Looks like the Solemnity Enforcers are willing to turn on their own.

They really are ruthless.

Koishi

OK, let's get a photo in front of the gate.

Koishi

Cheese!

Clownpiece

H-Hey! I don't wanna be in the photo!

Koishi

Quit complaining and smile.

Clownpiece

As if! That's what got me locked up here in the first place!

Koishi

Relax, there are no enforcers here.

Clownpiece

Really?

Koishi

Really, really.

Clownpiece

In that case...

Clownpiece

*smile*

Koishi

Sweet, I got it.

Koishi

Time for another.

Clownpiece

T-Take all the photos you want. They'll all be the same!

Looks like Clownpiece is having fun.

Doremy

Yeah. A New Year's filled with smiles is a wonderful thing.

Yuyuko

This is just a thought...

Yuyuko

But what if we tried to make everyone laugh?

Huh?

Yuyuko

The Solemnity Enforcers locked Clownpiece up for one little laugh, right?

Yuyuko

What if we make EVERYONE laugh, including the enforcers?!

Whoa, you might be onto something!

Doremy

So the Solemnity Rebels' goal is to make the Solemnity Enforcers laugh, huh?

Yuyuko

Exactly! That way, they'll have to lock themselves up!

It's kinda brilliant!

But, how're we gonna do it?

Yuyuko

I'm no comedy expert. But you need confidence to make people laugh. And enthusiasm!

Sounds right to me!

Yuyuko

First up...

Yuyuko

Let's try and make those guards chuckle!

Right now?! We don't have any jokes!

Yuyuko

Who needs jokes?! Remember: confidence and enthusiasm!

...Got it!

Yuyuko

Here goes nothing!

Yuyuko

Guards! Oh, guaaards!

Ichirin

Wh-What's the deal with that wok?!

Ichirin

Fried rice is the LEAST solemn dish! Unzan says so!

Yuyuko

Huh?

Yuyuko

Looks like the laughter will have to wait!

Ichirin

Urgh. You look ridiculous... but those were some beautiful bullets.

Kyouko

Miss Ichirin, is Mister Unzan OK?

Suika

Wahey, medicine delivery from Santa!

Kagerou

C'mon, back on your feet!

It's the recovery squad again!

Ichirin

Fully healed! Time for round two!

Ichirin

Justice is on the Solemnity Enforcers' side!

Ichirin

That's what Unzan says!

Yuyuko

No way!

Yuyuko

Justice is on the Solemnity Rebels' side!

Yuyuko

That's what my fried rice says!

Ichirin

Pahaha, fried rice doesn't talk!

Ichirin

...Uh-oh.

Kyouko

Miss Ichirin...

Kyouko

You just laughed, didn't you?

Ichirin

Me?! Never!

Kyouko

Where's your solemnity?!

Ichirin

Waaaaah!

At the not-so-solemn Gate of Solemnity...

Ichirin

Why me?

Clownpiece

You new here? If you've got questions about the Gate of Solemnity, I'm your Hell fairy!

Ichirin

You're Clownpiece, right?

Clownpiece

That's MISS Clownpiece to you. I've been here longer than you, so show some respect!

Ichirin

S-Sorry.

Clownpiece is loving this...

Yuyuko

It's a lonely place. It makes sense to want to chat with a new arrival.

Doremy

There's been no shortage of new arrivals, though.

Doremy

Clownpiece was tossed in here. And, almost immediately, Ichirin followed.

Koishi

It's all thanks to us.

Koishi

Our tactic is working. Solemnity Enforcers keep getting sent here.

Yeah, you're right.

Kyouko's lack of humor is kinda scary...

But the plan to make everyone laugh is working!

Koishi

Yup. At this rate, we'll put a stop to the Solemn Year-End Challenge in no time.

Koishi

You know what we have to do next, right?

I think so.

Koishi

Comedy training.

I thought wrong!

Koishi

The funnier we are, the faster we'll take down the enforcers.

Koishi

Comedy training is the logical next step.

I-Is it though...?!

Koishi

Cut it out.

Cut what out?

Koishi

The snide comments.

Koishi

Be brave like Yuyuko and commit to the bit.

Koishi

I'll take pictures while you do.

B-But I don't understand comedy! What's a bit?!

Besides, I always end up blushing in photos.

Koishi

Fine. Doremy, you're up. Do something funny.

Doremy

Me?!

Koishi

Yep.

Doremy

O-OK.

Koishi

Do something funny, and I'll get a photo of you.

Doremy

Like what?!

Doremy

...For now, I'll just focus on making you laugh. That OK?

Koishi

Uh-huh.

Doremy

H-Here goes!

Doremy

What do I do? What do I do? If I don't get out of here and sell more pillows, I'll end up sleeping with the fishes!

Koishi

...

Koishi

Is that it?

Doremy

*nervous nod*

Koishi

Where was the funny part?

Doremy

Oh, uhh...

Koishi

Have you got something against fish?

Doremy

N-No. It's wordplay. You know, 'cause you sleep on a pillow. And "sleep with the fishes" means―

Koishi

I don't care what it means. It wasn't funny. Yuyuko, you're next.

This training's brutal.

Yuyuko

OK! Who wants to hear a joke?

...I do!

Yuyuko

Why do horses like fried rice so much?

Yuyuko

Because of the wok hay!

Koishi

...

Yuyuko

Like wok hei. Because horses like hay... Teehee.

Koishi

...

Yuyuko

That's it. That's the whole joke.

Koishi

...

Yuyuko

You didn't like it?

Koishi

No.

Koishi

I love it. I'm laughing hysterically.

Yuyuko

Y-You are?

Koishi

Yep.

Koishi

But we still have lots of training to do.

Yuyuko

Got it!

Doremy

I won't give up, no matter how un-funny I am!

Koishi

Good.

A-All right, let's do this!

Doremy, Koishi & Yuyuko

Yeah!

(I have a bad feeling about this...)

Koishi

Next up, physical humor. Stir-fry that imaginary rice.

Yuyuko

Stir and fry! Stir and fry!

Doremy

Stir... fry! Stir... fry!

Koishi

Doremy. You need to commit to the chant.

Doremy

Sorry...

Doremy

But the only thing I have to stir-fry is this pillow.

Koishi

No.

Doremy

No?

Koishi

Use your imagination, and that pillow will transform into fried rice.

Doremy

My imagination, huh?

Doremy

Got it!

Doremy

I'm ready to try again!

Koishi

OK, let's take it from the top. Go.

Yuyuko

Stir and fry! Stir and fry!

Doremy

Stir and fry! Stir and fry!

Clownpiece

What're they doing?

Ichirin

Some kinda training, I think.

Sorry for all the noise.

We're practicing our imaginary stir-frying.

Ichirin

Oh, that makes sense.

Clownpiece

Does it?

Ichirin

People are free to imagine whatever they please.

Clownpiece

Th-They are?

Ichirin

More importantly, didn't you have something to tell Miss PLAYER?

Clownpiece

Oh, right!

Clownpiece

Security's gotten pretty lax around here.

Really?

Clownpiece

It used to be super tight. But those dumb Solemnity Enforcers chucked me, Ichirin, and Unzan in here.

Clownpiece

Can you believe it? They locked up their own allies. Now they don't have enough people to guard the place.

Whoa...

Serves 'em right!

Ichirin

If we're going to break out, now's our chance!

OK! I'll tell the others.

Koishi

No need. We heard everything.

K-Koishi!

Yuyuko

We just finished stir-frying!

Doremy

All our training's about to pay off!

Wow, you guys!

Koishi

Ready?

Koishi

It's time to kick this rebellion up a notch.

Futo

Tch. What is the meaning of this?!

Tojiko

Careful, Futo. The other enforcers said these guys are using some weird tactics.

Futo

Weird tactics?

Koishi

Camera's ready.

Yuyuko

Then let's go!

Doremy

We're headed to a Chinese restaurant!

Futo

Do they seek to transport us somewhere afar?

Tojiko

I didn't hear anything about that. Let's watch. But keep your guard up.

Doremy

Hellooo?

Yuyuko

Come in! What would you like today?

Doremy

That depends. What's on the menu?

Yuyuko

We have regular fried rice, small fried rice, large fried rice, and extra small fried rice!

Doremy

But that's all fried rice!

Yuyuko

Teehee.

Doremy

Ready, go!

Doremy & Yuyuko

It's a dream come true!

Yuyuko

...

Yuyuko

Ta-da!

Koishi

That was perfect.

The final line fits Doremy so well!

Koishi

It's called a punchline. Don't forget.

I-I won't.

(Koishi sure knows a lot about comedy.)

(I wonder how the audience is doing?)

Futo

Pfft.

Futo

I was expecting a move of devastating proportions. 'Twas nothing more than a silly joke.

Tojiko

Emphasis on the "silly." I was worried for nothing!

Kyouko

Ahem.

Kyouko

Are those smiles I see, enforcers?

Tojiko

Huh?

Futo

I-I know not what thine eyes have seen. Mayhaps Tojiko was smiling, but not I―

Kyouko

Where's your solemnity?!

Futo & Tojiko

Arrghhhhhh!

They're being attacked by the other enforcers!

This is our chance to escape!

Yuyuko & Doremy

Go, go, go!

Doremy

*pant* *pant* We... made it.

Yuyuko

And not a grain of fried rice spilled. I really am amazing.

Koishi

How about a photo to celebrate our escape?

Koishi

Great smiles.

Now we're free, it's easier to smile naturally!

Clownpiece

Is Myouren Temple really the best place to hide?

Clownpiece

Don't all the scariest Solemnity Enforcers hang around here?

Ichirin

They do. But there's someone even more dangerous in the Palace of the Earth Spirits.

Wait...

Do you mean―?

Ichirin

Miss Tiny Satori.

Koishi

Huh.

Doremy

What makes her so dangerous?

Ichirin

Not so long ago, I was an enforcer, right?

Ichirin

But most of the people we arrested on Nazrin's orders had already been taken down by Miss Tiny Satori.

Koishi

Another Satori attacked them?

Doremy

Either that... or she made them laugh.

Ichirin

All I know is that by the time I arrived, Miss Kyouko and the others had everyone restrained.

Ichirin

What Miss Tiny Satori did to them is a mystery.

Koishi

Hmm...

Doremy

Whatever she did, it's gotta be ultra powerful.

Yuyuko

Maybe she has, like, a really funny joke.

A really funny joke, huh?

It's hard to imagine Miss Satori telling a joke.

???

What's all this noise?

I-It's...

Miss Tiny Satori!

Satori

Drop the tiny!

I feel like you've said that before...

Koishi

Repeating the same joke is called a callback. Don't forget it.

I-I won't.

Satori

Hey, what are you whispering about?!

Koishi was just teaching me about comedy.

Satori

H-How dare you.

Satori

You think you can lie to me, don't you? You think I'm a child!

N-No! We really were talking about comedy―

Satori

You want comedy? I'll show you comedy!

Satori

What did the naughty girl get for Christmas? ...A faceful of bullets!

Ichirin

Take this!

Satori

Nice aim.

Ichirin

She might be small, but she's no pushover. We've barely scratched her.

Satori

What did you expect?

Satori

I'm the queen of the Underworld, Satowi Komeiji!

Satori

Aww, I messed up my own name...

Ichirin

Satowi Komeiji?!

Satori

C-Cut it out! We all make mistakes!

Ichirin

Hehe, that was so cute. Even Unzan's laughing.

Ichirin

Oh no!

Nazrin

Smile detected to the south!

Nazrin

Solemnity Enforcers, go!

Koishi

We gotta run!

B-But Ichirin!

Koishi

There's nothing we can do for her now.

No way!

Koishi

We're in big trouble.

Koishi

Another Satori's secret weapon...

Koishi

Is her cuteness.

Koishi

We should be safe here.

Where are Ichirin and Clownpiece?

Yuyuko

Looks like they didn't make it.

Doremy

It's a safe bet the enforcers have them now.

No...

Koishi

Another Satori's cuteness is no joke. Just looking at her is enough to make you smile.

Koishi

You can hold in a laugh. But smiling at something cute is like an instinct. You can't suppress it.

Whoa...

So that's how she's taken so many people down.

Koishi

She's a formidable foe in this Solemn Year-End Challenge.

Koishi

We need to regroup and think of a plan.

Doremy

You're right. Let's find a more secure spot.

Yuyuko

Time for our second meeting!

Reimu

So...

Reimu

What are you all doing here?

Yuyuko

Well, Marisa and I rushed in here the other day.

Doremy

So we figured this is the place to go when you're in trouble!

Koishi

Let's take a photo to celebrate this gathering.

Reimu

Hey, you need a permit for that!

Reimu

Hakurei Shrine doesn't allow unauthorized photography! We get enough of that from the tengu reporters!

Youmu

Relax, Miss Reimu. Let's be glad everyone made it back safely!

Reimu

I suppose that's a good thing. You're way too caught up in the New Year's vibes, though.

Reisen

I'm so happy to see you all again!

Reisen

I was really worried. Especially after PLAYER vanished!

Thanks. That means a lot.

Reisen

Don't mention it! We're friends, remember?

Youmu

Where were you being kept? We searched all over Gensokyo and couldn't find you.

Doremy

It's kinda hard to explain...

Yuyuko

It's called the Gate of Solemnity!

Youmu

Whoa...

Reisen

What sort of gate is it?

Doremy

It's less a gate, more a prison. It's where the Solemnity Enforcers take people who aren't solemn enough.

Yuyuko

I got sent there just for making fried rice.

Reimu

Huh.

Reimu

If these enforcers are causing so much trouble, why don't you just blast 'em?

Doremy

Easier said than done. There are some tough youkai in their ranks.

Yuyuko

And whenever you do take one down, the others come and heal 'em right up.

Reimu

So? Just target the healers first.

Reimu

I bet there's only one of them doing the actual healing.

Doremy

Yeah, but who?

Wait, it could be...!

Suika

Wahey! I brought medicine for ya!

Suika

Wahey, medicine delivery from Santa!

I think Suika's the healer.

Doremy

Oh, yeah. She's always bringing people "medicine!"

Yuyuko

I wonder what's in it? Maybe fried rice?

I don't think fried rice has any healing properties!

Doremy

Knowing Miss Suika, she's probably turning into mist and stealing medicine from Eientei.

Yuyuko

So if we take down oni-Santa, the Solemnity Enforcers will lose their healing ability!

Doremy

Wow, that's an awesome plan, Miss Reimu! You really are an expert youkai exterminator!

Reimu

Who said I wasn't? Besides, I just want you all out of here as soon as possible.

(Reimu always helps! Even if she doesn't want to!)

Reisen

Then it's settled.

Youmu

Let's defeat Miss Suika and bring the smiles back to New Year's!

Just one problem. How're we gonna find her?

She can literally turn into mist...

Reimu

You need some way to lure her out.

Reimu

Luckily, I know just the thing.

In Nazrin's hut...

Nazrin

Hrmm...

Shou

...

Suika

What's eating ya, Nazrin?

Nazrin

Those "rebels" have fallen off the grid.

Suika

What rebels?

Nazrin

They called themselves the Solemnity Rebels, and kept trying to take down enforcers.

Nazrin

Then, they vanished.

Suika

That's kinda spooky.

Nazrin

Yeah. Spooky.

Nazrin

The only spooky thing here...

Nazrin

Is your lack of manners!

Nazrin

Who said you could use my hut as your secret base?!

Nazrin

I only let you hide here because Giant Master was in trouble!

Shou

C-Calm down, Nazrin. This whole mess is my fault.

Nazrin

It is?

Shou

The Solemn Year-End Challenge started because of something I said.

Shou

And now the Solemnity Rebels have popped up to try and put a stop to it.

Shou

They've been going around telling jokes as a way to eliminate people.

Nazrin

That... makes no sense.

Shou

I know, but it's the truth. I'm sure they'll come for me soon. That's why I wanted to hide here.

Nazrin

If you want Master to be safe, you'd be better off letting us guard her.

Suika

That's why we're here.

Nazrin

I-I see... I mean, I DON'T see. But I kinda see.

Nazrin

So... where are the rebels now?

Shou

We have people out looking for them.

Nazrin

My dowsing rods are picking up a signal!

Nazrin

Multiple smiles detected. It's coming from...

Nazrin

Hakurei Shrine!

Suika

Hoho!

Nazrin

Wh-What're you talking about? Dowsing rods don't detect smiles!

Nazrin

They do when you're big enough.

Nazrin

Really?

Suika

Really. So be sure to eat a ton and grow big and strong.

Shou

Don't worry, Nazrin. All you need is belief.

Nazrin

I feel like I'm getting duped here... but if you say so, Giant Master.

Suika

Now, about those smilers. Let's go beat some solemnity into them.

Shou

Shall we go, too?

Suika

No, you're the boss.

Suika

Stay here with Nazrin and Nazrin.

Suika

This...

Suika

Is my festival!

Youmu

Miss Reimu was right. All we had to do was joke around to lure Suika out!

Reisen

Time to show her that we're real warriors!

Youmu

Taste my sharpened beams!

Suika

What? I couldn't evade them!

Even in her mist form, the beams still affect her!

Reisen

This is the last time you underestimate a Lunar warrior!

Reisen

Let's finish her off together―

Suika

Heh.

Reisen

What?

Suika

Nothing. I just haven't had this much fun in a while.

Suika

Let's turn this festival up a notch! Get ready to experience true oni power...

Kyouko

Miss Suika...

Kyouko

Did you just smile?

Suika

Huh?

Suika

No way. That was an evil grin! There's a difference! There's a―

Kyouko

Where's your solemnity?!

Suika

H-Hey, wait!

Youmu

Sharpened beaaaams!

Suika

Arghhhhh!

Reisen

All right, Miss Suika. We're locking you in the shrine office until the challenge is over!

Youmu

Try any funny business, and it's beam time!

Suika

Wahey! B-But this place is packed with anti-oni charms!

Doremy

We had to team up with the Solemnity Enforcers, but we dealt with Miss Suika!

Yuyuko

With Miss Reimu keeping an eye on her, we won't have to worry about her escaping!

Yep. That just leaves...

Koishi

Another Satori.

I know she's not YOUR big sister...

But are you really OK with us taking her down?

Koishi

Yes.

Koishi

After all, we're the Solemnity Rebels.

We sure are!

(She's so brave.)

Koishi

Besides...

Koishi

We don't know where any of the other enforcers are.

Oh...

(That's a surprisingly practical reason.)

Yuyuko

Tiny Satori's in the Palace of the Earth Spirits, right?

Doremy

That's what Miss Ichirin said!

Doremy

But if we go in without a plan, we might end up smiling all the way to the prison!

Koishi

That's why I devised a plan.

Doremy

Y-You did?!

Koishi

Yep.

Yuyuko

What is it?

Koishi

First, we have to ignore everything she says.

Doremy

What?!

Koishi

She's eliminated countless people by messing up her words in an adorable way.

Koishi

Our best bet is not to listen.

Yuyuko

Th-That feels kinda mean... but it makes sense!

What's the second part of your plan?

Koishi

We all need to pretend we're the Gate of Solemnity.

Doremy

Y-You mean...

Doremy

We have to act like those stone statues carved near the Hall of Dreams' Great Mausoleum?

Koishi

Yep.

Koishi

Another Satori is scary because she makes you smile without realizing.

Koishi

But if we pretend to be statues, that won't work on us.

Yuyuko

I spent so long locked up there that I can picture the statues super easily!

It's the perfect plan!

Doremy

You said it! Now... to the palace!

In the Palace of the Earth Spirits...

Yuyuko

We haven't been here since the Christmas party...

Doremy

It's not even been a week, but it feels like a lifetime ago.

Back then, we came here to have fun.

But this time, we're here to fight!

Koishi

That's right.

Koishi

Are you all ready?

Doremy & Yuyuko

Yeah!

Yuyuko

Statue mode, engaged.

Doremy

Like this?

Yuyuko

Kinda... but more like this!

Koishi

Hrmm.

(Even Koishi looks solemn!)

Koishi

Let's head inside.

Utsuho

So then she said today was her birthday, so I fired my giant party popper.

Rin

Wow, that must've surprised her.

Utsuho

It sure did. Normally, she'd be super happy, but that challenge is still on, right?

Utsuho

She thanked me real politely, but the enforcers showed up anyway―

Utsuho

Eek!

Utsuho

Wh-What was that? They all looked so scary...

Rin

Scary serious! I'm glad they weren't here to see us...

Rin

...Oh no! I think Lady Satori's in trouble! Let's go!

Satori

...

Satori

(With all the people I've eliminated in this challenge, I must be a top contender.)

Satori

(I wonder when it ends.)

Satori

(Is it only after the enforcers lock everyone up and no one smiles anymore?)

Satori

(If that's the case, then when will I...)

Koishi

Hello, Another Satori.

Satori

Koishi?!

Satori

I-I wasn't expecting you. And you're not alone.

Koishi

...

Doremy

...

Yuyuko

...

Satori

Wh-Why aren't you saying anything?!

Satori

Fine. I'll just have to read your minds.

Doremy

(I'm a statue. A statue made of stone.)

Yuyuko

(I'm a statue. A statue made of stone.)

Satori

Wh-What the...?

Satori

You're a bunch of weirdos!

Rin

There they are!

Utsuho

Are you all right, Lady Satori?!

Satori

I dunno!

Satori

But... I think so!

Satori

These guys are freaking me out!

Utsuho

How dare you freak out little Lady Satori.

Rin

You're ours now!

Satori

Y-You're all so hard to break...

Koishi

OK, that's enough.

Koishi

We can stop being statues now.

Doremy & Yuyuko

...

Doremy

Phew! I can finally breathe again!

Yuyuko

I barely blinked through the whole battle. My eyes are so dry!

Satori

Wait... you could talk normally this whole time?

Satori

Why were you giving me the silent treatment?

Koishi

Because at this rate, smiles will disappear from Gensokyo.

Satori

Come again?

Koishi

You might not know it, but you're the frontrunner in this Solemn Year-End Challenge.

Koishi

Everyone's desperate to catch up. So they've been reporting anyone who even half-smiles.

Koishi

And now, there are barely any smiles left.

Utsuho

*sigh*

Rin

Quiet, Okuu.

Satori

Orin, Okuu... You agree with her?

Utsuho

...Yeah.

Utsuho

You've been keeping us safe from the enforcers. But we can't laugh and smile like we used to.

Satori

I had no idea...

We wanted to bring everyone's smiles back.

So Koishi founded the Solemnity Rebels.

Koishi

Another Satori. Help us put an end to this challenge.

Koishi

I don't smile often...

Koishi

But I want to ring in the New Year surrounded by everyone else's smiles.

Satori

Koishi...

Satori

OK.

Satori

I'm...

Satori

Joining the webels!

Satori

Oops.

Koishi

Let's take a photo to celebrate you joining us.

Satori

I-I have to stay still, right?

Koishi

One more.

Koishi

And another.

Koishi

...Heh.

Satori

Th-This is taking a long time.

Satori

I'm starting to shake!

Koishi

Just a little longer.

Satori

O-OK, I'll keep trying!

(Koishi's not holding back...)

(If only Satori knew she could move!)

Reimu

So...

Reimu

How come there are more of you now?

Yuyuko

After a deadly battle in the Palace of the Earth Spirits, we gained some new rebels!

Doremy

It really was deadly.

Doremy

When Miss Satori said "webels," I thought I was done for.

It's lucky we all had statue mode to fall back on.

Reimu

Wow, sounds like you had it rough... NOT!

Reimu

You seriously thought I'd be impressed?!

Koishi

Whoa, a fakeout...

Satori

Are fakeouts powerful?

Koishi

Very.

Reimu

How long are you planning to let this stupid challenge go on?!

Reimu

I haven't been able to get the shrine ready for New Year's, you know?!

Reimu

So far, I've let it slide because PLAYER's with you...

Reimu

But the year's almost over! Take me to the final boss, and I'll show them who's boss!

Yuyuko

Wait... Does this mean you're joining the Solemnity Rebels?!

Reimu

Sure, whatever. The final boss. Now!

Doremy

B-But we don't know where the Solemnity Enforcers' leaders are.

???

Hey, everyone!

Youmu

We said we'd give Miss Suika her favorite food if she told us where the enforcers' hideout is.

Youmu

And she totally agreed!

Reisen

C'mon, let's go!

Back in Narzin's hut...

Shou

*sigh*

Shou

I want this challenge to end already.

Nazrin

C-Cut it out, Shou! What if one of the enforcers hears you?!

Shou

B-But Suika's been captured. She was the one forcing this challenge on everyone. You want it to end too, right!

Shou

The new year's only a few days away. Let's put a stop to all this.

Nazrin

H-How, though? After everything that's happened, it's kinda tricky to just say, "OK, everyone, game over!"

Shou

That's true... I wish someone would stop it for me.

???

Hellooo?

Reimu

You're the enforcer bosses, right?

Satori

To bring smiles back to Gensokyo, we rebels will deweat you!

Satori

...Oops.

Koishi

Another Satori's tongue slips are the cutest.

Shou

I-I don't believe this...

Shou

Thank you so much!

Doremy

Uhh... Why's she so happy to see us?

Youmu

Beats me. But now's our chance!

Reisen

No mercy, no surrender!

Yuyuko

After everything we've been through, it's finally time.

Yuyuko

Let the fried rice battle begin!

Nazrin

Urgh, those were some impressive bullets.

Shou

Very well, I declare the Solemn Year-End Challenge over.

Shou

I'll ask the Solemnity Enforcers to cease their activities immediately.

Phew...

(I sure hope the enforcers listen to her.)

Doremy

So everything's settled!

Yuyuko

Yes, this fried rice battle is finally at an end!

Youmu

Um, Lady Yuyuko? No one's been fighting that kind of battle but you!

Reisen

Now we don't have to be solemn, I wanna go shopping again!

Koishi

Let's get a photo to celebrate the end of the challenge.

Satori

Eek! Wh-Which way's the camera?!

Koishi

Over here.

It was a bumpy ride...

But it looks like we're set for a happy new year.

Reimu

What're you talking about? We've got tons left to do.

We do?

Reimu

Have you forgotten about the New Year's prep?!

Oh, yeah!

Shou

Umm, before all that...

Shou

There's still something I have to do. Will you accompany me to Myouren Temple?

At Myouren Temple...

Well, we're here.

Reimu

You're not planning to call your friends and make a run for it, are you?

Shou

Not at all. There's someone I need to see here.

Byakuren

Is that someone me, perhaps?

Shou

*gasp* Hijiri!

Reimu

Great. Another troublesome monk.

Byakuren

The youkai training at the temple disappeared a few days ago. So I began investigating on my own.

Byakuren

It didn't take long to find out what was going on. Let me guess...

Byakuren

You're here because you need help putting things back to normal.

Shou

You saw right through me. As always.

Reimu

Oh, please. If you knew how to fix this, you should've come straight to us!

Byakuren

Not possible. With this situation, timing is everything.

Timing?

Byakuren

Yes. You thought the same, didn't you, Big Shou?

Shou

Yes. There's only one way to stop the Solemnity Enforcers. That's why I'm here.

Byakuren

Hehe, you're as wise as I hoped. What you seek is already waiting for you.

Shou

Then let's not delay―

Reimu

H-Hold up!

Reimu

I'm glad you're getting along.

Reimu

But will you please―

Reimu

Explain―

Reimu

What's going on!

Shou

M-My apologies.

Reimu

Yeah, yeah, just get on with it.

Shou

U-Understood.

(Reimu sure knows how to get her way.)

Shou

OK, listen up.

Shou

The problems with the Solemn Year-End Challenge started when I promised the winner an amazing reward.

Shou

"Spend New Year's solemnly, and treasure could be yours." Once people got that idea in their heads, things escalated.

Shou

To bring this challenge to an end, we need two things.

Shou

To quell everyone's desires. And to tell them that the new year has already begun.

Shou

Luckily, there's a way to do both at once.

Reimu

Ah, I get it!

I think I do, too.

...Wait, no I don't.

Shou

Hehe, then I'll explain.

Shou

What can rid people of their desires and ring in the new year?

Shou

The temple bell.

Shou

I came here to ring it 108 times, signalling the new year.

I see...

Reimu

You're the perfect person for the job. You even look like a bell.

Shou

Th-Thanks.

Byakuren

The rise of the Solemnity Enforcers can be partially blamed on a lack of disciplined training here at the temple.

Byakuren

So, I'm more than happy to let Big Shou go ahead with her plan.

Reimu

Sounds like you guys have got a handle on things. I'm headed back to the shrine to prep for New Year's!

Reimu, wait!

Byakuren

Hehe, she's always running about.

Shou

Yes. But she truly is an expert incident resolver.

Umm, I think I'm gonna go after her.

You can ring the bell alone, right, Miss Shou?

Shou

Don't worry about me.

Shou

I owe you a great deal.

Shou

From the bottom of my heart, thank you. And... Happy New Year.

To you, too!

A few hours later...

Reimu

OK, it's time to get the shrine ready for New Year's!

Reimu

Youmu, you can handle the kadomatsu, right? You kinda look like one!

Youmu

I do?! ...Fine, I'll get on it!

Reimu

Reisen, set up some food stalls! You've been shopping nonstop in the Human Village, so you know how!

Reisen

I don't see how those things are connected... but whatever, I'll go along with the New Year's vibes!

Reimu

You two, photo time's over! Go prepare the kagami mochi!

Satori

But Koishi said I wasn't allowed to move.

Koishi

OK, one last snap.

Reimu

It was "one last snap" 100 snaps ago!

Satori

Oh...

Reimu

The bell's chiming.

Kyouko

The Solemnity Enforcers... aren't done yet!

Nazrin

Calm down, Kyouko. The challenge is―

Kyouko

The New Year's bell...

Kyouko

The year's over.

Kyouko

Which means...

Kyouko

The Solemn Year-End Challenge is over!

Kyouko

Which means...

Kyouko

I've gotta go set everyone at the Gate of Solemnity free!

Nazrin

She can be a little intense... but she's a good kid.

Ah, the New Year's bell.

Marisa

It's been a hectic year, but it's finally over.

Yuyuko

All that's left to do is stir-fry some rice.

You said it.

...Wait, what?

Yuyuko

What's the matter, Miss PLAYER?

I'm just not sure stir-frying rice has anything to do with―

Marisa

Look, PLAYER! A bunch of youkai are headed this way!

It's the Grassroots Youkai Network!

Wakasagihime

We all brought apology mandarins!

Kagerou

Sorry we got so caught up in the game.

Sekibanki

Let's... have lots of fun together next year.

S-Sounds good!

Wakasagihime

Happy New Year!

Yuyuko

Looks like everything's going back to normal!

What a relief.

Yuyuko

What do you say to a bowl of New Year's Fried Rice?

A what?

Marisa

Yes, please. I've been looking forward to this.

You have?!

Yuyuko

OK, I'll fire up the wok!

So New Year's Fried Rice is a real thing?

Marisa

Beats me. This is the first I've heard of it.

I was worried this was another medium incident.

Marisa

Relax, this year's incidents have all been resolved. Thanks to you, of course.

Phew...

Marisa

We'll just have to see what incidents next year has in store for us. For now, though...

Marisa

Happy New Year!

Yukari

Hello, PLAYER.

Yukari

It seems you made it all the way from Christmas to New Year's.

Yukari

Are you excited for the year to come?

I sure am!

I want more New Year's Fried Rice!

Choice Selected: "I sure am!"

Yukari

Your enthusiasm is like a breath of fresh air. You must have enjoyed your adventure.

Continue onto main branch.

Choice Selected: "I want more New Year's Fried Rice!"

Yukari

New Year's what?

Yukari

I'm not sure what that is... but I'm sure it's delicious.

Main Branch

Yukari

Solemnity is important. But if it's constant, it tends to drag people down.

Yukari

Too much of anything is bad. Like a river made only of rapids. Life's all about finding balance.

Yeah, balance.

Act serious sometimes. Act silly at other times!

Yukari

Exactly. Now your New Year's adventure is over, you should relax for a while.

Yukari

Who knows, there might be a waterfall waiting for you downstream.

A waterfall?!

Yukari

Teehee, I'm only joking. No need to be so tense.

Phew...

Yukari

Still, the river flows on, whether you want it to or not.

Yukari

Beyond the rapids, it merges with the great currents of the new year.

Yukari

It seems someone has kept themselves hidden, preparing while they had the chance.

Yukari

Many will call on you for help.

Yukari

I hope you're ready for all the new year has to offer.

Youmu

Huh?

Youmu

A New Year's party at the Palace of the Earth Spirits?

Yeah, I got invited. Wanna come, too?

Reisen

But didn't they just have a Christmas party?

Reisen

I mean, I'll go if there are lucky-dip bags on offer, but it feels too soon to switch gears.

I thought so too.

But they went out of their way to invite me.

Youmu

*gasp*

Youmu

Come to think of it, I think I was invited, too!

You were?

Youmu

Yep. I tucked the invitation letter into my sleeve.

Reisen

I know New Year's is a time to relax, but at least put it in a folder!

Youmu

Hold on, I know it's in here somewhere... Found it!

Wow, it's just like mine!

Youmu

Let's see what it says!

Youmu

"To all who attended our Christmas party, We're wasting no time. Our New Year's party is next!"

Youmu

"For details, ask Tiny Satori and White Koishi. Regular Koishi and I are on a hot spring vacation."

Youmu

"If anything goes wrong, ask them, not us. Yours, Satori Komeiji."

She must've written that after a relaxing bath...

Reisen

Hm? I think I got that same invite, too.

Reisen

Here it is! It was in one of the lucky-dip bags I bought!

Youmu

And you were teasing ME for being disorganized?!

Reisen

My bad... With all the New Year's hype, I spent way too much money on these bags. Gotta find some use for them!

It's great that we all got invited!

Now, Okuu and Orin have no reason to stop us!

Youmu

Last time they said we were too New Year's-y and turned us away!

Reisen

But this time, New Year's-y is the name of the game!

Reisen

Actually, I don't even know what you do at a New Year's party. Maybe a lucky-dip bag exchange? If so, I'm totally ready!

Youmu

Hm, I've never been to one. I'm sure I'd be pretty good at a lucky-dip bag exchange, though!

(They really are full of New Year's cheer.)

(Good thing it's New Year's!)

All right, let's get going―

???

Oh my, look at you all together.

Youmu

Huh?

Reisen

I know that voice!

Kaguya

Mind if we join you for this party?

Youmu

Miss Kaguya! Um, that's a really nice kimono.

Kaguya

Oh, this? I was planning to wear it to the Christmas party...

Kaguya

But by the time I'd perfected my look, the whole thing was over!

Youmu

Wow, you must've been taking ages.

Kaguya

You only get one shot at a first impression, right? I kept adjusting the bow, and before I knew it―

???

Princess! Wait!

Eirin

I can't take my eyes off you for a second, can I?

Kaguya

Oh, Eirin, you're here too.

Eirin

I'm not "here too." I chased you!

Eirin

Remember what we heard? This party requires an invitation.

Eirin

We can't just crash it.

Reisen

Why not?

Eirin

Come again?

Reisen

It's a New Year's party! They'll be happy to have extra guests!

Reisen

Besides, you can't let those gorgeous kimono go to waste!

Eirin

I appreciate the thought, but you really think we can march down to the Underworld without invites?

Youmu

Of course.

Youmu

It's New Year's!

(Is that a good enough reason? ...Meh, I'm sure it is!)

Kaguya

It IS New Year's, Eirin. Come on, it's worth a shot.

Eirin

Fine. It doesn't seem like I have much of a say in the matter, anyway.

Reisen

New Year's party, here we come!

Youmu

Let's go!

Youmu

We made it!

Looks like Okuu and Orin aren't out here today.

Reisen

Weird. Think they're waiting inside?

Eirin

The palace doesn't look very New Year's-y from out here.

Kaguya

Relax, Eirin! I'm sure the inside is bursting with New Year's spirit.

Eirin

But, Princess, what if we're the only ones in kimono?

Kaguya

So long as we're together, it'll be fine!

Youmu

Me and Reisen are here, too!

Kaguya

Enough worrying. Let's go!

Eirin

I-I'm not ready! Youmu, Udonge, quit pushing me!

Reisen

This way for the New Year's party!

Inside the palace...

Reisen

Huh? I was expecting some kinda bullet ambush from Orin and Okuu.

I don't see them...

Eirin

Is it just me, or do those stained glass windows look a bit Christmassy?

(Eirin sure gets worried easily!)

Kaguya

Relax! I don't come here often, but those windows have always been there!

Youmu

I can vouch for that. I'm sure any second now, we'll see something New Year's-y―

???

Hey!

Satori

What are you doing, wandering in here?!

Tiny Satori and White Koishi!

Satori

Just because there's a party doesn't mean you're invited!

Koishi

*snap* Got a pic of Another Satori angry.

Koishi

Heh.

Kaguya

See, Eirin? What'd I tell you?!

Eirin

Phew. Tiny Satori's pretty annoyed, but at least she looks New Year's-y.

Reisen

Before I forget, here are our invitations!

Youmu

We're not too late, are we?

Satori

Oh, you have invitations.

Satori

Forget what I said. You're most welcome here.

Sh-She calmed down quick!

Kaguya

We don't actually have invitations... But since it's New Year's, maybe you could make an exception?!

Eirin

Maybe you should've just kept your mouth shut?

Koishi

Fine by me.

Really?!

Satori

And me. But just so you know, this isn't your average New Year's party.

Satori

Still wanna join us?

Eirin

...What's not average about it?

Kaguya

Sign us up!

Eirin

P-Princess! Shouldn't we talk about this?!

Koishi

I like your attitude.

Satori

First, let's find out if you're all worthy of your invites... with a little battle!

Koishi

Whoa...

Satori

Not bad, everyone!

Wh-What was that all about?

Satori

We needed to check if the party would be too much for you.

I don't understand...

You said it wasn't going to be an average party.

So what type of party is it?

Satori

If you really want to know, I'll tell you.

Satori

The goal of this New Year's party...

Satori

Is to fix all the trouble that occurred at the Christmas party.

Satori

The goal of this New Year's party...

Satori

Is to fix all the trouble that occurred at the Christmas party.

Satori

We're gonna fix all the trouble that occurred at the Christmas party.

Koishi

Heh. Got a snap of Another Satori striking an awesome pose.

Um...

Why did you say it twice?

Satori

Oh, uhh...

Koishi

You.

Yes?!

Koishi

Quit asking my ultimate photo subject useless questions.

Sorry...

Koishi

You want to know why she said it twice?

Koishi

Because she thought it would make her sound cool.

R-Right.

I feel silly for asking.

Koishi

Don't beat yourself up over it.

Eirin

Princess?

Eirin

Unless I misheard, I think she mentioned trouble.

Kaguya

She sure did. The Christmas party trouble!

Eirin

We're leaving. I can't let you get involved in anything dangerous!

Kaguya

Steady there, Eirin. In all those books at Suzunaan...

Kaguya

The kids who leave early are always the first to die!

Eirin

D-Die?!

Satori

She's right. Now, will you both calm down?

Satori

Yes, there was trouble at the Christmas party.

Satori

But it has already happened. There's one thing I should tell you, though...

Satori

You're all suspects!

Koishi

Snap.

Satori

All of you!

Koishi

Snap again.

Koishi

Heh. Got to love those dramatic poses.

Youmu

W-Wait a sec!

Youmu

I thought we were invited here for a fun New Year's party!

Reisen

Yeah. Why are we talking about suspects all of a sudden?

Satori

Let me explain.

Satori

Only people who attended the Christmas party received an invitation. In other words, everyone here is a suspect!

Everyone

Whaaat?!

Youmu

So that's why only me, Reisen, and PLAYER got one.

Kaguya

Me and Eirin missed the Christmas party entirely because I took so long getting ready!

Satori

Exactly.

Satori

Now you know why I said this wasn't going to be your average New Year's party.

Uh-huh...

But what trouble was there at the Christmas party?

Satori

I said trouble, but actually, it was more like a crime.

Satori

The case of the missing mystery instrument!

Youmu

Missing?

Reisen

Mystery instrument?

Satori

That's right. The mystery instrument had been sitting in a guest room for a while, waiting for its owner to claim it.

Satori

But during the gift exchange, it got mixed in with the presents.

Satori

And got given away!

So someone took it, thinking it was a present?

Satori

Uh-huh.

Satori

It looked super rare, so we need it back before this world's Satori and Koishi get back!

Koishi

Everyone understand?

I-I think so.

Kaguya

Hey, Eirin? Does this really sound like a crime to you?

Eirin

The only crime here was poor inventory management.

Satori

No whispering in the back!

Koishi

If you've got something to say, say it.

Eirin

My apologies.

Eirin

May I ask a question?

Satori

Go ahead.

Eirin

Out of everyone already here, did any of them admit to receiving the mystery instrument?

Satori

So far... no!

Eirin

I see. What about you two?

Youmu

Nope. All I got was a lucky-dip bag.

Reisen

I don't remember getting any weird instruments!

Eirin

Hmm...

Eirin

So the instrument was taken by someone at the Christmas party, but no one here at the New Year's party has it.

Eirin

Which means the real suspects...

Kaguya

Oh, I got it!

Kaguya

The thief...

Kaguya

Is someone who came to the Christmas party, but isn't here today!

Eirin

Bingo.

Satori

I-I see!

Satori

I wanted to be the one who deduced all that...

Satori

But I have a suspect in mind!

You do?!

Satori

Yes.

Satori

Follow me!

Koishi

Got a quick photo for the evidence box.

Satori

You two, what are you doing here? And why are you still dressed like that?!

Utsuho

W-Well...

Rin

Because of the Solemn Year-End Challenge, we didn't really get to enjoy Christmas.

Utsuho

So, I asked Orin if she wanted to extend the festivities with me.

Satori

R-Right...

Satori

It's a little odd. But I suppose I'm partly responsible for that challenge.

Satori

I'll turn a blind eye to you skipping the New Year's party.

Rin

R-Really?!

Utsuho

Thanks, Tiny Mistress!

Satori

Leave out the "Tiny!"

Satori

Now, about the instrument. You really don't know anything?

Utsuho

N-Nope...

Rin

I do remember seeing it during the gift exchange, but I have no clue who it ended up with.

Satori

Hmm.

Sounds like we're back to square one.

???

Hey.

Nazrin

If you're looking for a lost item, you're in luck.

Nazrin

I'm a treasure-finding expert.

*gasp*

It's Giant Nazrin and Sparkly Shou!

Nazrin

Stop calling us that! We're not from some kinda fairy tale!

Eirin

Nazrin's the real deal, though.

Kaguya

With her dowsing, we'll find the mystery instrument in no time!

Youmu

During the Solemn Year-End Challenge, she tracked down literal smiles. This should be a breeze for her!

Reisen

Yeah, I still don't get how that worked!

Satori

You have me to thank. I invited her.

Satori

So, Giant Nazrin, can we count on you and your dowsing?

Koishi

I'll handle the photo documentation.

Nazrin

It'd be rude to say no.

Nazrin

I'll fire up my rods and get searching.

Nazrin

Hrrrr!

Shou

Big Naz uses sound effects like that to concentrate better.

Shou

We have to give her a bit of time.

(Shou's acting like Nazrin's manager!)

Nazrin

...Hm?

Youmu

Did she just say "Hm"?

Kaguya

Yep. Maybe this isn't gonna be so easy.

Nazrin

I-I'm detecting...

Nazrin

Multiple mystery instruments.

Koishi

As in, more than one?

Satori

N-No way! I feel like Byakuren said it was super rare!

You feel like?

Satori

N-No! She DID say that!

Shou

Naz is a little overwhelmed right now.

Shou

We need to be patient.

Shou

Are you OK, Nazrin?

Nazrin

I-I'm trying to focus on what I saw at the Christmas party, but there really are lots of signals.

Shou

Hmm, how about this? Just locate the one that's closest.

Nazrin

...Good idea.

Nazrin

Found it!

Satori

For real?!

(I'll pretend I didn't hear them whispering.)

Satori

Let's go. Follow Nazrin, everyone!

Koishi

I need a photo of us on the hunt.

Koishi

*snap*

Doremy

I-I was just getting good at playing it.

Suika

What's with you all? Barging into our hideout!

Yuyuko

Yeah, don't interrupt our training!

Satori

Wh-What's with us? What's with YOU?!

Satori

That's our precious instrument!

Suika

Your instrument?

Doremy

This thing?

Yuyuko

I got it during the gift exchange.

Satori

Yeah, well...

Satori

It wasn't supposed to be given away! Sorry, but give it back!

Doremy

What should we do? I've caused my share of trouble lately, so I don't mind doing what I'm told.

Suika

Well, she does sound apologetic. I do kinda want to help her...

Yuyuko

But we need this instrument for our training.

Youmu

So the mystery instrument ended up with Lady Yuyuko and her fried rice.

Reisen

Hold up, what kinda training are you doing here?

Doremy

Well, as members of the Solemnity Rebels...

Wh-What happened?

Did someone get hurt?

Yuyuko

No, it's nothing like that.

Yuyuko

We simply realized how much fun it is to make people smile!

Huh?

Doremy

We recruited Miss Suika to help us spread even more smiles.

Suika

We've been trying to come up with the ultimate comedy routine for the end-of-year party.

The ultimate comedy routine?!

Yuyuko

Yep. And after a ton of unfunny failures, we decided musical comedy would be our best bet.

Eirin

Aren't you prepping a little early? This year's just begun.

Eirin

I know me and the princess took forever to prepare our kimono... but still.

Kaguya

Hang on, Eirin.

Kaguya

If they wanna win Gensokyo's end-of-year party, it makes sense to start working on their material now.

Kaguya

But considering recent trends, they'll have stiff competition as a musical trio act.

Eirin

...Why do you know so much about the comedy scene?

Eirin

And how can they "win" the end-of-year party?

Kaguya

By beating the other acts.

Kaguya

I was planning to enter this year with you, actually. I'll explain later.

Eirin

What?!

Satori

A-Anyway!

Satori

Please return the instrument to the palace! It's very important!

Yuyuko

But instruments like this one...

Yuyuko

Are all over Gensokyo.

Satori

Say what?

At Myouren Temple...

Nazrin

Listen up, everyone.

Nazrin

This is where the mystery instrument is.

Nazrin

...I think.

You think?

Youmu

You don't sound very confident.

Reisen

Yeah, you got quieter with every word.

Satori

It was Byakuren who said the instrument was rare. This really could be the right place.

Koishi

If you say so, Another Satori.

Shou

I'll go get Byakuren―

???

No need.

I-It's...

Byakuren and Kyouko!

Kyouko

Good morning!

Doremy

G-Good morning!

Kyouko

I can't hear you!

Kyouko

Take a deep breath, and...

Kyouko

Good mooorning!

Kyouko

And...

Kyouko

Happy New Yeeear!

Doremy

H-Happy New Year!

Yuyuko

Poor Doremy. After all that time in the Solemnity Enforcers' prison, she's scared of Kyouko.

Suika

No surprise. Kyouko was basically an oni back then.

Kyouko

C'mon, everyone, louder―

Byakuren

That's enough, Kyouko.

Kyouko

Sorry, Miss Byakuren!

Byakuren

No need to apologize. It's nice to see such energy.

Byakuren

So what brings you all here today?

Satori

Oh, umm...

Yuyuko

We're hoping to learn more about this instrument!

Satori

You said it was rare, right?!

Byakuren

Ah, that instrument.

Byakuren

We have one, too.

The mystery instrument!

Koishi

Another photo for the evidence box.

Satori

So it's not rare after all?!

Byakuren

Well, in Gensokyo folklore, there are tales of a legendary "phantom instrument" that supposedly looks like this.

Byakuren

But the one I have and the one you brought are replicas of an old instrument from the outside world.

Satori

Replicas? You mean they're fakes?

Byakuren

Imitations to be precise.

Byakuren

They're fairly popular in some parts of Gensokyo, but not especially rare or expensive.

Byakuren

Still, they make a lovely sound. I'm quite fond of them.

Satori

I see...

Satori

If it sounds good, that makes it a good instrument, right?

Koishi

Exactly. So there's nothing to be sad about.

Satori

Y-Yeah, you're right!

Kaguya

Hey, why don't we start up the New Year's party again... with some live music?

Kaguya

The case is closed, so let's get back to celebrating!

Satori

That's...

Satori

A fantastic idea!

Satori

Does anyone here know how to play this instrument?!

Doremy

I've been practicing, but I'm still not great at it.

Yuyuko

I can play pretty well, but I can't afford to put down my wok.

Suika

That sounds like a solvable problem.

Umm...

I think I know how to play it.

Doremy & Yuyuko

What?!

If we invite the Prismriver Sisters...

Maybe we can all play together.

Yuyuko

Sounds great!

Suika

You're full of surprises.

Doremy

Let's head back to the palace and start the show!

Yuyuko

You can even join our comedy act if you like!

I-I'll just stick to the music!

Koishi

Sounds like we have everything we need.

Satori

Back to the palace we go.

Satori

It's New Year's party time!

Kaguya

Hey, everyone! The sugoroku tournament's starting over here!

Kaguya

Eirin HAS to play, but does anyone else wanna join us?

Reisen

I do, I do!

Nazrin

Me, too.

Shou

And me.

Eirin

This is going to be a lively game...

Koishi

Got a snap of the party.

Satori

And what a party it is!

Satori, Koishi.

Did you like my performance?

Satori

You bet! I was surprised you could play at all, but you sounded great.

Satori

It won't be long until Koishi and I leave this world.

Satori

But we'll never forget our time here.

Satori

Whoa, give me a heads up before you snap a photo! I need to prepare mentally... and strike a good pose!

Koishi

But you look great.

Satori

I do?

Koishi

Uh-huh.

Satori

Let me see...

Satori

Wow, I DO look great.

Koishi

Heh.

Satori

Thanks, Koishi. And thank you, too, PLAYER.

Satori

With your help...

Satori

I've made so many wonderful memories.

Satori

Phew, that hot spring was amazing.

Koishi

And super hot.

Satori

That reminds me. Where did you find that weird instrument? The one you showed me earlier.

Koishi

Oh, uhh...

Koishi

I found it on the road!

Satori

Huh.

Satori

Then I suppose it's nothing to worry about.

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A Solemn New Year

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A Solemn New Year