Lossy's Journal

Reisen

We're here, Master. What do you need?

Tewi

Oh, PLAYER is with you.

Eirin

Ah, there you are, Udonge, Tewi. I have several tasks for you.

Reisen

That sounds kind of ominous...

Tewi

Really? PLAYER's here, so I'm guessing it'll be fun! Heh heh heh!

Eirin

PLAYER only came to pick up some medicine.

You're the best pharmacist around!

Reisen

Thanks for your patronage!

Eirin

Now then, as for why I called you both here...

Eirin

First, Udonge. I have a present for you as thanks for always helping me!

Reisen

Huh?! A-A present for me?

Eirin

Yes. A reward for being a good girl this whole year.

Reisen

Whoa, what a pretty outfit! Thank you, Master!

Eirin

And this is for you, PLAYER. You went through quite a lot this year, but you always did your best.

F-For me too?!

Thank you!

Tewi

Wow, you two really lucked out. What about me, Master?

Eirin

I bought you a cooking uniform at Kourindou not so long ago, didn't I?

Tewi

Darn, I was hoping she forgot...

Eirin

Sorry, did you say something?

Tewi

Nope, nothing at all! Just remembering how happy I was to get that outfit, ahaha!

Reisen

A costume for Tewi, and now presents for PLAYER and me...

Reisen

You're being really generous this year, Master!

Eirin

Heehee, well, the truth is...

Yoshika

Hey there! We're here for medicine!

Seiga

Hello, can I have the usual?

Eirin

Oh, hello. The holly herbal medicine, right? I've got some right here.

Seiga

Thank you!

Seiga

OK, now I'll just take the herbs and go like this...

Seiga

Here, this is for you, Yoshika!

Yoshika

Yay! Thanks, Seiga!

Eirin

Um, may I ask you something?

Seiga

What is it?

Eirin

Why did you give it to her as a present instead of handing it to her directly?

Seiga

No, you don't understand. I was just copying the phantasm that brings gifts to children who were good all year round.

Eirin

A phantasm that brings gifts to good children? I've never heard of such a thing. Care to enlighten me?

Seiga

Well, I heard this phantasm is very, very compassionate and―

Eirin

...And that is what I learned.

Eirin

What's interesting about this phantasm is that it reforms sinners so that they don't become evil spirits after death.

Tewi

It's weird that a phantasm of all things would straighten sinners out. I like the idea of giving gifts to good kids, though!

Eirin

Exactly, Tewi. Simply praising children for being good all year long isn't enough.

Eirin

It is the promise of another reward that motivates them to be good the following year as well.

Eirin

That's why I thought that we could follow the story of that phantasm and deliver some presents.

Reisen

I see... So you're going to do it at the beginning of the new year when you know who was good?

Eirin

I intended to at first, but then I realized that we'll be busy preparing for our New Year celebrations.

Eirin

That's why I've decided to deliver the presents before the year ends.

That means there isn't much time left.

This will be the last surprise of the year!

Eirin

Indeed, and this is what I want you all to help me with.

Reisen

Sounds like fun! I'm in!

Tewi

I'll help too!

Eirin

Thank you, I knew you'd agree. We need to prepare first... Heehee, I expect we'll be quite busy.

Tewi

Master seemed really excited, huh?

Reisen

Yeah... But that phantasm she's taken an interest in has me curious, too.

Reisen

Ah, these clothes are so warm. I love them! Say goodbye to the days of shivering while shoveling snow!

Reisen

And you're a great help, PLAYER! Thank you!

Think nothing of it.

I might as well help since I'm here.

Reisen

Really, you're a lifesaver! Tewi could learn a thing or two from you!

Reisen

Master is busy as always, and Tewi is never any help.

Reisen

Still, I can't believe this "Gift-Giving Phantasm" has got Master so fixated...

Tewi

Heeey, I don't see you shoveling!

Reisen

I can't focus. That phantasm Master was talking about is bothering me...

Tewi

Oh, that. It was also on my mind... And then I remembered something.

Reisen

What?

Tewi

I saw Master researching something in the library earlier. She was eagerly going through some old books.

Tewi

I think it was right around the time when the wicked hermit came to buy medicine.

Reisen

I see. So Master was doing this research shortly before or after the wicked hermit came to Eientei...

Reisen

Hey, where are you going?

Tewi

To see how the rabbits are doing, of course. Keep up the good work, you two.

Reisen

Stop right there! Are you just going to dump all the work on us?!

Reisen

*sigh*

Reisen

PLAYER, how about we do some research at the library too?

Reisen

If something's caught my master's interest... I want to know more about it!

Me too!

Reisen

Great! Let's finish up this shoveling and get over there right away!

Reisen

We can get rid of these naughty fairies while we're at it. They keep getting in the way...

Reisen

Bad fairies should be punished!

Reisen

Phew... It's all nice and clean now! Let's head to the library!

Reisen

I think this is it, PLAYER.

Reisen

This book talks about the Gift-Giving Phantasm that Master mentioned.

..."Protects learning"?

Reisen

Hm, let's see. "The Gift-Giving Phantasm protects learning"...

Reisen

"It wanders about at the end of the year and brings gifts to good children."

Reisen

"The phantasm is assisted by a Dark Companion, who punishes naughty children."

Reisen

"Towns rejoice and are filled with a festive atmosphere when the time of the phantasm's seasonal visit arrives."

Reisen

"Presents from the phantasm appear by the pillow or inside socks while children are sleeping."

Reisen

"The phantasm is also protected by a Divine Attendant of unfathomable strength."

This phantasm sounds pretty incredible.

Reisen

Yeah... But I noticed one thing.

Reisen

Master said that we were good kids.

Right, the presents!

Reisen

Yeah! Master gave us these clothes, so it means that we're the good children she read about in the book.

???

Exactly. You're as smart as always, Udonge.

Reisen

M-Master?! Is that outfit...?

Eirin

I modeled it after the phantasm from the book. I made it in a rush with my lunar sewing machine, but I'm quite proud of it.

Eirin

Is there something odd about it?

Reisen

Oh no, not at all! It's very nice!

Reisen

I was just surprised. It's... quite different from what you usually wear.

You look very stylish!

It really suits you!

Reisen

Yeah, what PLAYER said. You look wonderful, Master.

Reisen

But while it is beautiful...

Eirin

What is it, Udonge? If there's something you want to say, say it.

Reisen

Um, how should I put it? Maybe I'm just confused because I'm not used to seeing you like this... Please give me a moment!

Eirin

I can see you aren't convinced yet... All right. Moving your body is the best way to process information.

Oh, I think I know what this means...

Eirin

Doing what you normally do almost every single day should help dispel your confusion.

Eirin

It's time for a battle of bullets!

Reisen

Huh? That's so sudden!

Eirin

Oh? Is there a problem?

Eirin

I'd like to check the durability of my costume. I made it in a hurry, so I also want to know if it lets me move freely.

Eirin

Humor me in this, Udonge.

Reisen

Well, it's not like I can ever change your mind once it's set on something. I guess we'd best get this over with!

Eirin

This will allow me to see both the capabilities of my costume and your progress for the year in a single stroke.

Eirin

I'd say my garb performed admirably. How about that head of yours, Udonge? Did that workout help clear it?

Reisen

Yeah, more or less...

Eirin

Let's proceed to the next step, then.

Eirin

It would seem battles won't be an issue, then. I'd say that makes us ready to depart.

Reisen

Depart... Modeling after... Master, don't tell me you mean to...

Eirin

I do. As you have guessed, I want to play the part of the legendary Gift-Giving Phantasm.

Reisen

Aha, I knew it.

Huh?

Reisen

The book said that towns are festive and rejoice when it's time for the phantasm's seasonal visit.

Reisen

I bet we're meant to be the celebrating townspeople. I mean, look at our outfits... This is what townspeople wear, right?

Reisen

And given how you're dressed, I thought you might be intending to take the part of the Gift-Giving Phantasm, Master.

Eirin

How insightful. I knew good children such as you would be willing to help.

Eirin

You're now dressed perfectly for your roles, and I got to give presents to good children, killing two birds with one stone.

Reisen

Hehehe, hearing you say that makes me blush, Master.

Reisen

So, what are we going to be doing, exactly?

Eirin

Well... I want to visit everyone in Gensokyo and finish this year's business before the new one arrives.

Reisen

E-Everyone?! I see you're as ambitious as ever.

Eirin

Am I? If everyone in Gensokyo was good, then everyone deserves a gift, don't you think?

Reisen

When you put it that way, yes, but still...

Will I be able to keep up with you?

Eirin

Don't worry. I know just the thing.

Reisen

But... did you think about me too?

Eirin

Oh? If PLAYER can keep up, then surely you can too.

Reisen

Yeah, right. I should've known you'd say that!

Reisen

PLAYER, brace yourself... By the look in Master's eyes, we won't return until all the gifts are delivered.

I-I'll do my best!

Eirin's really looking forward to this, isn't she?!

Reisen

Right! Seeing my master happy makes me happy too, so a special event like this every so often can't hurt.

Reisen

And most importantly... she gave me this adorable costume! How can I not play my part?

Eirin

Now then. Udonge, PLAYER. Let's find the other helpers.

Reisen

Other helpers...?

Reisen

Oh! The Dark Companion and Divine Attendant?

Eirin

And the Sleeping Children.

Sleeping Children?

Eirin

The phantasm puts the presents by sleeping children's pillows or into their socks.

Reisen

Right, the book did mention that. So how do we find these Sleeping Children?

Are we going to ask Miss Doremy for help?

Reisen

Oh, right. That baku is the Ruler of Dreams. Maybe she has some leads for us.

Kaguya

*yawn* It looks like I overslept a little. It's already dark out...

Kaguya

Oh? Are you all going somewhere?

We're going to look for helpers...

Kaguya

Helpers? Hey, Eirin! You weren't going to do something fun without me, were you?!

Kaguya

Let me in on the action!

Eirin

My, my, it seems we had help right here under our noses. We would love to have you join us, princess.

Kaguya

I could never turn down such an enticing invitation!

Eirin

Heehee, I thought you'd say that... which is why I already made a costume for you.

Kaguya

You're the best, Eirin! Give me a second! I'll go change real quick!

Reisen

Are you sure this is OK? The princess has been busy lately. Shouldn't she be resting?

Eirin

She was up late last night having audiences with the villagers. It seems more people come seeking advice at the year's end.

Reisen

It must have been exhausting, but you can't deny that having the princess lend you her ear is strangely comforting!

Eirin

True. She soothes the heart, all without medicine―Quite an incredible gift.

Eirin

She must be very tired if she only woke up just now, but if she says she wishes to join, I can hardly refuse.

Eirin

This is a special occasion, so it would be more fun if we all took part in it together. We could use her help as well.

The more, the merrier!

Eirin

Yes, quite so.

Reisen

Still, it's so chilly tonight. Can we go inside for a moment?

Eirin

Children don't let the cold get in the way of their fun. Warming yourself up with a bit of activity is much more healthy.

...And by that, you mean a battle of bullets?

Eirin

Correct. It will be good training as well! We will be traveling the whole of Gensokyo, after all.

Reisen

B-But...!

Reisen

Ah well, I guess a battle of bullets is better than freezing!

Eirin

Oh, look. Some of the nearby fairies have gathered too. Heehee, take care not to get hurt during the warm-up.

Reisen

Now I'm hot because of all that moving around!

Eirin

I feel nice and toasty myself. Let's cool off a little while we await the princess's return.

Reisen

That battle got me nice and warm. I'm ready to leave whenever you are, Master!

Eirin

Your enthusiasm is most reassuring. But do be careful not to catch a cold.

Reisen

OK!

Eirin

Now we just have to wait for the princess...

Kaguya

Eirin, Reisen, PLAYER! I'm ready!

Kaguya

Am I wearing it right?

Eirin

Yes, absolutely. The size is perfect too.

Reisen

Whoa! You look so cute, Princess!

It really suits you!

Kaguya

Thank you both! Your taste is impeccable, Eirin.

Kaguya

But, I have to say... these clothes are a bit lighter than I expected.

Eirin

They're bedtime wear from the outside world, called pajamas. They're meant for indoors, but I thought they'd suit you...

Eirin

We're also going to be walking the whole of Gensokyo, so comfort and breathability were a top priority.

Reisen

...Aha!

Reisen

Does that mean the princess's part is one of the Sleeping Children?!

Kaguya

Is this about that Gift-Giving Phantasm you spoke of earlier, Eirin? If so, I think I'm perfect for the Sleeping Child role!

Eirin

Now then... It's all well and good that the costume fits, but I wonder how well you can move in it.

Kaguya

It feels quite sturdy despite being so thin. And since it is your handiwork, I am sure it can hold up in battle too.

Eirin

Yes, in fact, I made it with exactly that in mind. Perhaps I can convince you to test it out with me now?

Kaguya

I see... It's a bit cold, but all right. I was just thinking a quick battle would be a great way to warm up!

Kaguya

Heehee, this outfit makes me feel like I'm staying up late. How fun!

Eirin

Oh my, someone's eager. Though, I have to admit that I'm quite excited myself.

Reisen

We can't have the princess catching a cold! PLAYER, let's heat her up!

Eirin

Well, I'd say this proves battles won't be an issue. Shall we be off then?

Kaguya

The only downside is that it's a bit cold, but we can always rectify that with another battle. I'm nice and toasty right now!

Kaguya

You mentioned something about other helpers, correct? Let's go find them!

Reisen

Princess, aren't you cold?

Kaguya

Oh, just a tiny bit...

Kaguya

But when I think about all the fun that's awaiting us, the cold doesn't bother me at all!

Reisen

You and Master are really passionate about enjoying yourselves... Not that I don't understand.

I couldn't bear the cold in such thin clothes...

But more friends means more fun, right?!

Reisen

Oh, right, Master. Do you have any idea where to look for our next helper?

Eirin

I do. It's only a hunch, but I have a feeling we'll find someone soon enough.

Reisen

A-A hunch?

Eirin

Yes, and it looks like I was right... Oh?

Yorihime

Lady Yagokoro! Did you meet my sister by any chance?

Eirin

No, you both came here first. And I must admit, I didn't expect this.

Reisen

Really?!

Reisen

Er, Lady Yorihime. We're supposed to take over for Lady Toyohime, correct?

Yorihime

Delivering the results of our investigation to Lady Yagokoro takes priority.

Yorihime

...That said, we have not discovered anything of interest at present.

Eirin

I see... Thank you. You may give me the details at Eientei.

Reisen

If Master doesn't have an outfit for Lady Yorihime... it must mean she doesn't intend for her to join.

It seems so.

Eirin

Oh, I almost forgot!

Eirin

We may not have all of our companions, but shall we have a mock battle?

Yorihime & Reisen

E-Excuse me?

Eirin

I'm currently imitating a phantasm that rewards good children with gifts and punishes the bad via battles of bullets.

Yorihime

Oh, um, OK... That sounds like an interesting experiment.

Yorihime

I may not fully understand what you are doing, but I know that both Reisen and I were very good and obedient!

Reisen

Yes! Lady Yorihime and I were very good!

Eirin

Let us see the truth of that claim, then.

Yorihime

Can you really tell who was naughty or nice by having a battle of bullets?

Yorihime

No, I shouldn't worry about that now! Reisen, let us show them what we've got!

Reisen

You got it! I'll prove what I'm capable of when I give it my all!

Eirin

I believe the both of you are a bit too nervous. But you certainly don't lack fighting spirit.

Eirin

I saw how hard you both worked this year through our battle.

Reisen

Really?! Nothing escapes you, Lady Yagokoro!

Eirin

Heehee, that's not all. I also know that you were eating dango at the street stalls until just now.

Yorihime

She even knows what we ate...

Reisen

Does it make us naughty that we had a snack while on duty?

Eirin

I wouldn't declare you bad for something so minor. I think you were good, and thus you deserve presents.

Yorihime

Thank you very much, Lady Yagokoro!

Reisen

Wow! It's a new dango recipe!

Yorihime

And I got... a paper pattern for making clothes? I think I've seen this before somewhere...

Eirin

Yes. This is for the costume Toyohime made for you not so long ago.

Eirin

Sewing is enjoyable in a way similar to the healing arts as it requires both focus and dexterous use of one's fingers.

Eirin

Why not give it a try? You may even find it useful as training.

Eirin

You may use it however you wish. But to start off, perhaps you might enjoy modifying a costume.

Yorihime

Thank you!

Eirin

As for the new dango recipe I gave you, Reisen―this is because I entrust Toyohime and Yorihime to your care.

Eirin

Healthy food makes a healthy body, so I ask that you not forget what a great help offering tasty meals can be.

Eirin

I have faith that you will look after both of them well.

Reisen

That's a great responsibility... But I will keep doing my best to be of assistance!

Reisen

That's my master! I knew you had presents for them too!

You predicted everything!

Reisen

Seriously. She even knew that they ate snacks.

Kaguya

That shouldn't be a surprise at all.

Kaguya

Eirin closely observes her surroundings at all times. Take a closer look at their mouths.

Oh, I see dango sauce!

Eirin

That's right. And that dango sauce is from Gensokyo. That's why I was able to guess correctly.

Kaguya

Only your observant eyes are capable of such a feat, Eirin!

Eirin

Please stop poking fun at me, Princess. Let's get back to searching for our helpers.

Eirin

Now then, let tonight be the night we gather the rest of our team!

Kaguya

Heehee, you're certainly excited, Eirin. I'll have to make sure you don't outshine me!

You're both more than fired-up in my eyes!

Reisen

We didn't find anyone last night despite waiting so long. I wonder who the Dark Companion and Divine Attendant are.

Eirin

Don't worry. I'm sure they will be here soon.

???

Lady Yagokoro's right about that.

Toyohime

...Since we will be the ones to play those crucial roles!

Sagume

[I'm ready to do this too.] I will do my best.

Eirin

Ah, Toyohime and Sagume, you're here much earlier than I expected. Has Yorihime taken over your duties?

Sagume

[Yes, without issue. We shared information as well.]

Kaguya

The Reisen from the moon said something similar yesterday. Eirin, did you ask a favor of them?

Eirin

Only to do a little investigation for me. In fact, they were meant to change places yesterday...

Eirin

Did something happen?

Toyohime

Oh, I apologize about that. I was doing some experiments and research in my room...

Sagume

[...Perhaps you should try being honest?]

Toyohime

Well, the truth is the experiment turned into a disaster that hasn't quite been resolved yet...

Toyohime

At this point, it's going to have to run its own course, though. So I gave up and came here.

Reisen

Y-You left it unresolved?! Are you sure that's wise?!

Toyohime

It'll be fine. What happens, happens!

Um, is that really OK?

Sagume

[Lady Yorihime and the rest looked just as worried as you, PLAYER.] It's probably fine...

Sagume

[Their faces went white when we told them what was going on as they took over for us. I felt really sorry for them...]

Eirin

That sounds like quite the dilemma. But did you manage to create what I asked you for in time?

Toyohime

Of course! I've got it all ready!

Toyohime

Now then, let me get changed first.

Sagume

...Changed?

Eirin

Don't worry. I prepared your costume. Now, go change with Toyohime.

Sagume

Thank you.

Reisen

M-Master! Are we just going to stay here until they get back?

Kaguya

It's a bit cold... And that means―

Kaguya & Reisen

We should warm up with a battle of bullets!

Eirin

Oh dear, some fairies have come too. Let's gather in a circle, back-to-back with each other.

Kaguya

Heehee, just don't get in the way of my bullets, OK?

Reisen

Phew... That sure was a lot of fairies. But I'm much warmer now!

Eirin

It seems Toyohime and Sagume have just returned as well.

Toyohime

Sorry to keep you all waiting!

Toyohime

I'll be your Dark Companion!

Sagume

[And I'm the Divine Attendant...]

Eirin

You both very much look the part. I was right to ask for your help!

Sagume

Thank you...

Eirin

That said, I made Sagume's costume myself, so I knew it would be fine.

Eirin

And I must say yours is very nice as well, Toyohime! Your sewing skills have truly improved!

Reisen

Wait, if you didn't make one for Lady Toyohime... then she sewed it herself?!

Toyohime

Yes. When Lady Yagokoro told me about the event, I stitched it together as fast as I could.

You made something like THIS in a hurry?!

It looks like something from a boutique!

Toyohime

You flatter me, PLAYER!

Toyohime

It was completed in a rush, though, so I'm a bit concerned about its durability.

Toyohime

So, Lady Yagokoro...

Toyohime

...I would like to give it a test run. An exchange of bullets ought to do the trick, don't you agree?

Eirin

Good idea. I was hoping to see Sagume's clothes in action as well, so a battle would be perfect.

Toyohime

I knew you'd agree, Lady Yagokoro! Now, allow me to avail myself of your skills.

Sagume

[I would also like to see how durable this costume is for myself.]

Sagume

(It'd be terrible if the outfit I received from Lady Yagokoro got torn...)

Reisen

She needs to give her clothes a test-run in battle? That sounds just like something Master would say.

Kaguya

Well, there's no backing out of things now.

Kaguya

Which means, Reisen, Eirin, and PLAYER, that you mustn't hold back just because this is a trial run.

Eirin & Reisen

But of course. Sure!

Toyohime

I expect you to be very thorough. After all, any chance to spar with Lady Yagokoro mustn't be wasted!

Toyohime

Maybe that was a bit reckless of me after all...

Sagume

[With PLAYER at Lady Yagokoro's side, the result was a foregone conclusion... Though I did want to win.]

Eirin

Heehee, please use that dismay as motivation to improve. There will be more battles when we deliver the presents.

Eirin

I'm counting on you both.

Sagume & Toyohime

[All right!] OK!

Toyohime

Where are we off to first, Lady Yagokoro?

Eirin

Hmm... To start with, I was thinking―

Kaguya

Achoo!

Reisen

Are you all right, Princess? You must be cold in those clothes after all...

Sagume

[A chill certainly has begun to set in...]

Kaguya

Yes, and the wind's strong too. *sigh* If I only had Mokou's fire...

Mokou

What was that about my fire?

Mokou

Huh? Why are you all dressed up?

Kaguya

M-Mokooou!

Mokou

Whoa! What's wrong with you, Kaguya? Don't cling to me!

Kaguya

You're so warm... and I'm frozen to the core. You feel so nice...

Mokou

Don't use me as your hot water bottle! And of course you're cold! Just look at what you're wearing!

Kaguya

What are you talking about? I'm not cold at all. And now that you're here, I'm actually hot.

Mokou

You expect me to believe that?! You're shaking like a leaf!

Kaguya

I'm fine. This outfit is warmer than it looks―Achoo!

Mokou

Says the one who can't stop sneezing.

Maybe going out as the Sleeping Child was a bad idea...

Mokou

Sleeping Child? Are you talking about that outfit?

Eirin

We were just about to go deliver presents to everyone.

Mokou

Deliver presents? Is that some kind of event?

Eirin

Simply speaking...

Eirin

I judge whether you were good or not this year through a battle of bullets.

Mokou

Hmph... In other words, you're challenging me to a fight. Hey, Kaguya.

Kaguya

Wh-What?

Mokou

Come on, let's go a round. I'm sure it'll beat huddling there with the others.

Kaguya

Well, since you insist... I suppose I can let you battle me.

Eirin

By the way, there's also a custom of giving presents to each other, so we can ask someone what they want to receive.

Eirin

What do you wish for, Mokou?

Mokou

I wish you gave Kaguya something warmer to wear!

Mokou

Gah, I can't take this! Just looking at you makes me shiver too!

Kaguya

Oh? Are you saying it's my fault that you lost?

Mokou

That isn't what I meant... Anyway, are you any warmer now?

Kaguya

Yes, thanks to you, Mokou!

Eirin

Looking at your efforts this year, Mokou... you were extremely helpful as a forest guide, which I can only describe as good!

Mokou

I appreciate the compliment, but I only guide people through the bamboo forest because I enjoy it.

Mokou

Though... I'm not gonna refuse if you're giving me something. So can you get some warmer clothes for Kaguya?

Eirin

Oh dear... I didn't expect such a request from you, so I don't have anything of the sort prepared.

Mokou

Seriously?! So I'm not getting anything, then?

Kaguya

Achoo!

Mokou

Ugh, guess I'm out of options... Hey, Eirin. You said that there's a custom of exchanging gifts with each other, right?

Mokou

If so, can I give something to Kaguya?

Eirin

Certainly, I don't mind.

Mokou

In that case...

Mokou

Here, Kaguya. Use this as a pocket heater. PLAYER, you come over here too.

Kaguya... She's so warm!

Mokou

This is a phoenix feather I made with my ability. Its effect won't last forever, but it'll keep the cold away while it does.

Kaguya

Thank you, Mokou! I love it!

Mokou

*sigh* Being immortal is no excuse to dress inappropriately for the weather, got it?! Girls need to stay warm!

Mokou

Plus, if you catch a cold and end up bedridden, we won't be able to battle for a while...

Kaguya

Hehehe, you're right... I might very well die of boredom if that happened.

Eirin

That was an unexpected turn of events, but I'm pleased it turned out well in the end.

Reisen

Um, I don't think we get what you mean. What is "well" here?

Toyohime

Maybe it's caring for each other and showing it with gifts and feelings like they did just now?

Eirin

Precisely. Don't you think it would be a good thing if we could spread happiness like this?

Sagume

[So this is what Lady Yagokoro had in mind to close out the year!] Brilliant.

It looks like this year will end with lots of joy!

Mokou

Figures you anticipated this too. That was a nice trick.

Eirin

It was nothing of the sort. I simply know how kind and thoughtful you are.

Mokou

Ugh, that type of talk makes me blush... Anyway, safe journeys out there.

Kaguya

Mokou's feather heater is wonderful!

Is something wrong?

Eirin

I'm just wondering how we are going to deliver the presents before the new year.

Sagume

Right... We cannot give them to children who are awake...

Toyohime

Our main targets are kids from the village... At this hour, most of them should be home already.

Reisen

But it's easy to judge them this way, isn't it? If they're asleep, then it means they are good!

That makes sense...

But then how do we give them their presents?

Eirin

Reisen and PLAYER both raise valid points.

Eirin

So, given the situation... What are our options?

Kosuzu

I see. So that's why you came here.

Kosuzu

But how many times do I have to tell everyone that Suzunaan isn't a tea shop?!

Eirin

Well... we found ourselves at an impasse and simply wanted to take a little break while we thought things over.

Kosuzu

*sigh* Fine. This isn't a tea shop, but I'm glad to have you folks from Eientei and the moon visit!

Sagume

What's the matter?

Reisen

Oh, it's just that there's one thing that's been bothering me...

Reisen

The Gift-Giving Phantasm works at night, right?

Eirin

Yes, and that is why we're doing the same.

Reisen

But how does the phantasm get the presents to the children?

Toyohime

There must be some way.

Eirin

Toyohime is correct. According to one theory, the Gift-Giving Phantasm can slip through walls.

Eirin

That's how they can leave presents by the child's pillow or in their sock while they're asleep.

Reisen

Yeah, that would certainly make it easy to leave the presents! Except we can't pass through walls...

Kosuzu

Are you talking about the rumor that's been going around the school? If so, I heard it too.

What rumor?

Kosuzu

One of the kids who comes to borrow books told me―

Eirin

The school? Oh yes, of course!

Kaguya

Ack, why the sudden outburst?! You startled me.

Eirin

Kosuzu! Can you lead us to the school?

Kosuzu

Th-The school?! I don't mind, but don't you know the way, Miss Eirin?

Kosuzu

I'm pretty sure you're acquainted with Miss Keine, too...

Eirin

That's true, but I don't want to cause any confusion by us waltzing into the school in these costumes.

Reisen

Oh, so you were aware of how we might look...

Kosuzu

Well, in that case, I'm happy to help you all out! But in return...

Kosuzu

...I want a present too! I was good, I promise!

Eirin

Of course. What would you like?

Kosuzu

Lots more regulars! I want to see you all come to Suzunaan more often too!

Eirin

That is just the sort of request I would expect from you, Kosuzu.

Kosuzu

But I lost...

Eirin

Oh? Does it matter? You've just gotten more regulars, after all. The Princess, Udonge, and myself...

Eirin

I see some books here that we don't have in Eientei, so I'll come by to borrow them soon.

Kosuzu

Th-Thank you very much!

Eirin

Thank you for letting us into the school, Kosuzu.

Kosuzu

Hehe, glad to be of help. Don't forget to drop by Suzunaan next year!

Kosuzu

I'll leave you to it then. Say hello to Miss Keine for me!

Be seeing you!

Kaguya

I think we'd best see Keine first. According to Mokou, she should be giving classes at this hour...

???

Goodness... What are you all wearing?!

Eirin

Oh, what good timing. We were just about to go look for you.

Keine

You look like street performers. What is all this?

Eirin

Well, you're not exactly wrong.

Eirin

We're acting the parts of the Gift-Giving Phantasm and its entourage, traveling the length of Gensokyo to deliver gifts.

Keine

And so you've come here because there are children in the school, I assume.

Eirin

Precisely. We thought that a teacher such as yourself could give the children their gifts without raising suspicion.

Eirin

So we came here to ask for your help.

Keine

Hmm... So you're not doing this just to amuse yourselves. You're actually thinking about the kids, eh...

Rumia

Keine, what're you dooooing?

Cirno

No way! Is that the Gift-Giving Phantasm? Nice! We can get anything we want if we have a battle of bullets!

Daiyousei

Yeah, I heard about that too from the fairies of the bamboo forest!

Toyohime

Word certainly spreads fast... So what do you all want?

Cirno

Heh, I'm already the STRONGEST, so there's only one thing I want!

Cirno

I wanna have fun all day, every day!

Rumia

Then, I'd like... to never get bored, I guess.

Daiyousei

U-Um... I'd like to stay friends with everyone forever.

Eirin

I think I can handle that much!

Sagume

[She's even prepared for outlandish requests like this...] You're amazing, Lady Yagokoro.

Reisen

But is it really OK to make such promises?

Cirno

Let's do this! We'll show you all just how good we've been!

Cirno

Wh-What?! Our bullets aren't connecting!

Rumia

Grr! I thought we were hitting them, but we weren't at all...

Daiyousei

*sob* Miss Reisen's eyes threw us off!

Reisen

I feel a little bit guilty now...

Eirin

This year, you fairies fulfilled your duty by playing a lot of pranks. Which means―

Eirin

―that you were all exceptionally good kids!

Reisen

Um, Master? If we follow that logic, I'm not sure we'll find any naughty children...

Reisen

(Or maybe she doesn't intend to punish anyone?)

Cirno

All right, hand over the presents!

Daiyousei

Calm down, Cirno. The presents aren't going anywhere... or at least I think they aren't.

Keine

Don't you think that your wishes have come true already?

Rumia

Reeeeally?! When did that happen? Woooow, you really ARE the Gift-Giving Phantasm!

Daiyousei

It does seem like everything we asked for has already come true!

Kaguya

Heehee, I sense a bright future ahead for these young ones.

Keine

Now, as for my part in all this...

Keine

I don't mind helping, but I'm not sure what I should do.

Keine

If you don't mind, could you please teach me about the Gift-Giving Phantasm?

Eirin

Teaching the teacher is quite the responsibility...

Your attitude is impressive as always, Miss Keine.

Keine

There are things even I don't know. But, I can't just let that be!

Keine

This is what I always teach my pupils: to never accept ignorance!

Keine

So please, teach me!

Eirin

Well, it would be rude to refuse such a passionate appeal.

Toyohime

Lady Yagokoro, what would you say to teaching her during an exchange of bullets, instead of simply explaining it all?

Sagume

I can help... [If it's a battle of bullets.]

Eirin

Toyohime and Sagume seem even more enthusiastic than I am. And I still haven't heard your wish, Keine.

Keine

It's nothing special... I'll tell you after the battle.

Keine

It appears my diligence is lacking...

Toyohime

Your skills are remarkable. If anything, I think maybe you were a bit too tense.

Sagume

[I can't speak for my opponents, but...] It might be better to loosen up during battles.

Eirin

You never cease to impress, Keine.

Eirin

An excellent teacher and a great guardian of history. Need I even tell you that you were good?

Cirno

Way to go, Keine! Sure, you chew our ears off with those long lectures of yours, but I knew you were good all the same!

Congratulations, Miss Keine!

Keine

Cirno, PLAYER, thank you both. This makes me realize how much of a blessing it is to be a teacher.

Eirin

Those virtues of yours are further proof that you are good. Now then, let us hear your wish.

Keine

I wish for the children to be happy. But... it's already been granted.

Toyohime

We haven't done anything yet. Isn't it a bit early to say that?

Keine

No, it came true once I decided to help with your task.

Sagume

I see. That is an interesting way to fulfill a wish.

Eirin

It is we who should be thanking you for accepting the task!

Eirin

It just so happens I thought the color scheme of your clothes suited the Gift-Giving Phantasm role as well.

Keine

My color scheme...?

Keine

By the way, I've heard a piece of information about the Gift-Giving Phantasm that concerns me.

And what might that be?

Keine

The whole thing sounds somewhat suspect...

Keine

...but it seems that some children have already received their presents from the Gift-Giving Phantasm this year.

Kaguya

Do you mean to say that someone is already carrying out the same plan as we are?

Toyohime

If that's true, then maybe they are the source of the rumor.

Keine

Well, no harm was done to the kids. Quite the opposite―they're happy, so it's not that much of a problem.

Keine

But, I can't leave such things alone when it comes to their safety.

Sagume

Lady Yagokoro...

Eirin

It appears that we have a colleague, or from our perspective, a forerunner.

Eirin

Thank you for this vital piece of information, Keine.

Keine

It's nothing. I may just be acting as a stand-in for you, but I still want to help as much as I am able.

Keine

It's the natural thing to do.

Reisen

We may meet this fellow gift-giver somewhere along the way.

Eirin

Yes, that is a good thing to bear in mind. Who knows, they may have some ulterior motive...

Eirin

However, for the time being, our priority is to deliver presents to the children of Gensokyo.

Eirin

Hm... We aren't making any significant progress. And... am I perhaps flustered, knowing that we've got a rival?

Toyohime

Lady Yagokoro's worried... And there's nothing I can do to help.

Reisen

The two of you are being far too pessimistic!

Sagume

[We do not have much information about the other party... That may be why Lady Yagokoro is so troubled.]

Sagume

[An invisible opponent that we can only picture in our minds.] We'd better prepare for the worst...

Reisen

Not you too, Lady Sagume!

Kaguya

This... is a pretty serious problem.

Eirin

At this rate, we may come into conflict if we meet this other Gift-Giving Phantasm.

Kaguya

Hmm... They are doing the same thing we are, but it doesn't mean their motives or intentions line up with ours.

Eirin

We're only wasting time thinking about it. For now, we just have to make sure to do what we can!

Eirin

And... if they're scheming something, they must be strong. Or very ambitious.

Reisen

Oh!

Reisen

Master, I just picked up some youkai wavelengths! They're coming this way!

Ran

Oh? If it isn't the dwellers of Eientei and the moon folk. Why is PLAYER with you? Did something happen?

Chen

Meow! Are you going to a party or something?

Eirin

We're following in the Gift-Giving Phantasm's footsteps to bring presents to all the good children of Gensokyo.

Chen

Oh, I heard about that! Everyone was talking about it at the school, Lady Ran!

Ran

I see. So these are the costumes that Chen told me about earlier... They are quite unique.

Kaguya

By the way, where's your mistress?

Ran

Lady Yukari had been doing her best to refrain from hibernating, but she couldn't take it any longer...

Chen

She said she's gonna sleep until New Year. That's why we're gonna be at Mayohiga till then!

Kaguya

Oh, that must be hard for you as her servants.

You two must be good if you're trusted to house-sit!

Chen

Really?! Does that mean we get a present?!

Eirin

Well, first, we must complete a battle of bullets, just to be sure.

Ran

Um... But we were just heading to the Human Village to do some shopping for the celebrations...

Chen

Let's do it, Lady Ran! We're going to get presents if they think we're good!

Eirin

And what kind of gifts do you want?

Ran

I don't want anything in particular. But if I had to choose... Deep-fried tofu, I suppose?

Chen

And I want a good bonito!

Eirin

How surprisingly practical of you.

Reisen

Now then, let the light of our bullets illuminate whether you were nice enough to have your wishes granted!

Ran

We cannot lose a battle of bullets, no matter what it's for!

Chen

Let's show them what we can do, Lady Ran!

Chen

Meowowch! We lost!

Ran

Thinking about that fried tofu made me drop my guard...

Eirin

Here, presents for being so good!

Ran

But we lost...

Eirin

That battle of bullets was merely to judge whether you were good or not.

Eirin

The result is irrelevant.

Chen

Thank you!

Kaguya

Those beast youkai are good servants who care strongly for their master.

Eirin

Yes. And they aren't getting into mischief just because Yukari isn't here, despite their strength.

Reisen

Was that little chat and battle all it took for you to learn all this?!

Nothing gets by these two!

Toyohime

It looks like we'd better stay on our toes as well!

Sagume

[I feel a lot of other presences on this mountain...] Lady Yagokoro, someone's here.

Kaguya

That's... the mountain hermit, the reporter... and the yamanba?

Eirin

Hm... I can't imagine them planning something together... But the only way to know for sure is to ask.

Reisen

What happened? Are you all having a fight?

Kasen

Oh, Reisen... And PLAYER too. The reporter here apparently trespassed on the yamanba's territory.

Aya

Ayayayaya, how many times do I have to tell you? I smelled a scoop, so I only just barely stepped inside!

Nemuno

Ya ain't gonna pull the wool over me eyes!

Kasen

And so on and so on. Both have dug in their heels. I tried to mediate, but they just won't listen to me...

So basically, you're getting nowhere.

Toyohime

Lady Yagokoro, if we want to settle this, then...

Eirin

Indeed. Listen to me, you two!

Eirin

I'm currently the Gift-Giving Phantasm, and these are my helpers! We make good childrens' wishes come true!

Eirin

What do you wish for?!

Nemuno, Kasen & Aya

To settle this argument!

Kaguya

Then, let us shine a light on the integrity of your hearts with a battle of bullets.

Aya

Ayayayaya, how did it come to this?!

Nemuno

First, some tengu steps into my turf, and now I've gotta fight. What a day...

Kaguya

How long are you going to last in such a state? Let us see!

Kasen

I think maybe trying to fight while stuck between you two was a bit too much...

Toyohime

It seems you can't make full use of your powers when you're having an argument.

Kasen

OK. I made a memorandum that your territory is not to be violated.

Nemuno

I ain't got no objections with that... The problem's this tengu!

Aya

I'll adhere to the letter of the agreement we made! I'm a pure and righteous reporter!

Nemuno & Kasen

*glare*

Aya

Ayayayaya! Why the suspicious looks? What have I done to deserve that?!

Nemuno

Can't be too careful! If ya see one crow tengu, s'better to assume that there's a hundred about!

Reisen

I wonder if the reporter will really follow the rules because of one piece of paper...

Sagume

[She just had such a terrible experience,] so it's probably fine.

But this IS Aya we're talking about here...

Eirin

There's no need to worry... No real harm was done if you think of her work as simply a school newspaper.

Toyohime

Still, I wouldn't consider that reporter good... You're so generous, Lady Yagokoro!

Eirin

She does tend to get carried away and pay no heed to her surroundings. But only out of a desire to entertain others.

Kaguya

And I don't think that she would do something so foolish as to end up on the front page herself.

Eirin

I agree, Princess. Now, we're almost at our destination... Just one final effort!

Sanae

We've been waiting for you! Welcome to Moriya Shrine!

Reisen

You've been waiting?

Sanae

Lady Kanako! Lady Suwako! The fabled Gift-Giving Phantasm and her helpers have arrived!

Kanako

That's wonderful, Sanae.

Suwako

Well, of course they came. Our Sanae is obviously a good child!

Eirin

This is the first time we've received such a warm welcome.

Eirin

It's as Sanae said, I'm the Gift-Giving Phantasm and these are my helpers. We'll judge whether you were naughty or nice...

Eirin

...when we see you in the light of our bullets!

Sagume

[Well then, I wonder if you will be getting presents.]

Kanako

You can tell if someone was good or bad based on a battle of bullets? That's certainly a novel idea.

Suwako

Can you judge us too while you're at it?!

Sanae

That's Gensokyo for you! We shouldn't try and rely on common sense here!

Sanae

Ouch, I might have gotten a little too excited...

Reisen

Seeing you all so happy about our arrival means the rumors of the Gift-Giving Phantasm must have spread quite far.

Eirin

Oh, I nearly forgot. What present would you like to receive?

Sanae

More faith, of course! As if we could want anything else!

Kanako & Suwako

Yes! What Sanae said!

Eirin

You're as dedicated as always. Perhaps I should visit your shrine in the new year.

Sanae

Thank you!

Reisen

I'm starting to get the feeling all this testing to see if people are naughty or nice is just for show...

There sure are lots of good people!

You can say that again.

Eirin

By the way, we'd like to ask you something.

Kanako

What is it?

Reisen

Apparently, there is someone else giving out gifts just like we are. Have you heard anything about it?

Kanako

Oh? Are you saying there's someone else as eccentric as you lot?

Suwako

Hmm... I don't know anything. What about you, Sanae?

Sanae

You mean the rumor spreading among children in the village? I have heard the rumor, but none of the details. I'm sorry.

Kaguya

Don't be, it's all right. But please tell us if you hear something.

Sanae

No problem!

Toyohime

So what is our next move?

Sagume

Lady Yagokoro, do you have any ideas?

Eirin

Let me think...

Suwako

Oh, I just remembered. I did hear a rumor from the tengu that sounded pretty concerning.

Reisen

R-Really?! What was it?

Suwako

They said that lately, there's a devil that's been gathering children at the lakeshore to perform a strange ritual.

Suwako

I don't know if it's related though.

A strange ritual...

...A devil gathering children?!

Eirin

We won't know if it's related or not until we investigate. Let's visit the lake.

Kanako

The end of the year is always busy, isn't it? In any case, good luck.

Eirin

If what we heard at Moriya Shrine is true, the ritual site should be somewhere near here...

Reisen

I caught some wavelengths! One is coming from the Scarlet Devil Mansion, and several from the opposite direction!

Kaguya

Perhaps a dweller of the Scarlet Devil Mansion is the devil? What could they be plotting?

Sagume

[Let's hide somewhere for now,] and see how it plays out.

Koakuma

Thank you for coming again tonight! It's time to start everyone's favorite puppet show!

Three Fairies of Light

Yay!

Sunny Milk

I wonder what the show will be tonight?

Luna Child

I'm looking forward to it!

Star Sapphire

I'm sure it'll be even more interesting than yesterday's!

It's Koakuma's puppet show!

Eirin

Is this... the ritual?

Kaguya

Hmm... It sounds like things got a bit exaggerated since this is just a gathering of fairies.

Koakuma

Oh, it's the folks from Eientei!

Koakuma

Would you like to join us? Tonight's story is "The Old Man Who Brings Presents"!

Toyohime

Lady Yagokoro... Could this be the source of the rumor?

Reisen

Master, we came all this way, so we may as well watch it, right!?

Eirin

Right... Koakuma, may we watch too?

Koakuma

Of course! Enjoy the show!

Koakuma

...And so, it became a day when all would show their love to each other by giving gifts. The end.

Reisen

Master, this show...

Eirin

Yes, it has some things in common with the tale of the Gift-Giving Phantasm. Could Koakuma be our fellow gift-giver?

Kaguya

She may be a little devil, but I don't think she's up to anything naughty. I can't tell how much of that story was true, either...

Reisen, Toyohime & Sagume

*stare*

Koakuma

Everyone's staring at me?! Umm, did you not like something about the show?

Eirin

...Speculation will only get us so far. Koakuma, we need to ask you something.

Koakuma

Y-Yes?

Eirin

We're acting as the Gift-Giving Phantasm and its helpers, judging whether children were good with battles of bullets.

Luna Child

Aha! We heard there was a group going around fighting others and giving them presents!

Star Sapphire

So it was you all! You found the Three Fairies of Light at last!

Sunny Milk

Give us our presents, too!

Kaguya

Oh my, it appears that we need to judge the fairies before we can ask Koakuma any questions.

Eirin

Then let us see how good they are in the light of our bullets!

Sunny Milk

Like we could ever lose a battle of bullets!

Toyohime

You're so full of energy. And what might your wish be?

Star Sapphire

That should be obvious!

Three Fairies of Light

Lots and lots of successful pranks!

Sunny Milk

We're the Three Fairies of Light!

Luna Child

The three of us are as strong as an entire army!

Star Sapphire

Get a load of our combination attacks!

Sagume

[We shouldn't underestimate them... PLAYER, let's focus.]

Sunny Milk

Not even our combination was enough!

Luna Child

Aww... I was looking forward to getting a present...

Star Sapphire

Look at who we were up against, though. Did we even have a chance?

Eirin

Not bad. I bet you would even be a match for Cirno when you're all together.

Eirin

Your teamwork displayed great precision. I can tell you've gotten stronger.

Sunny Milk

Hehe! That's because we're a trio in everything we do!

Eirin

Yes. You've grown enough for your skills to mature. I'm certain this will help your pranks succeed.

Luna Child

Really?! Sunny, Star! We did it!

Star Sapphire

We were acknowledged by a strong person from Eientei! I can't believe it!

Koakuma

I've gotten a glimpse of what you're doing. And I think it's wonderful.

We're kind of just doing what we always do.

Kaguya

Yes... We ask the children's wishes beforehand, but then we just have a normal battle of bullets like always!

Kaguya

And if we see that they were good, they receive a present as a reward!

Eirin

It's your turn now.

Koakuma

O-OK!

Koakuma

Look... I may be small, but I'm still a devil. Is it even possible to judge me as "good"?

Reisen

I don't think that will be a problem... But if it concerns you so, then let us find out with a battle!

Toyohime

It will be the quickest way!

Eirin

All are equal in the light of bullets, be they devil, celestial, or Lunarian!

Koakuma

That's a relief! To tell you the truth, I'm super excited about this!

Eirin

Well in that case, let us see if you were naughty or nice!

Koakuma

OK!

Sagume

What do you wish for, little devil?

Koakuma

For only one thing! A book that I can enjoy with Lady Patchouli!

I should have guessed!

Koakuma

We've already read all the books we have in our library...

Reisen

You're true bookworms. It's been cold lately, so it's nice to curl up at home with a book in hand!

Koakuma

Oof, I guess I spent too much time reading and not enough exercising. I've gotten a little rusty...

Eirin

I expected no less from the familiar of the witch of the great library. You did your best. Thus, you were good!

Koakuma

So...

Sagume

[A new book... But is there anything that isn't in their library already?]

Eirin

True... Ah, I believe I know just the thing.

Eirin

What if I record our experiences on this Gift-Giving Phantasm escapade and make a book of it?

Koakuma

An adventure novel?! That would be amazing!

Toyohime

By the way, Lady Yagokoro. No matter how we look at it, she's innocent.

Sagume

[She wasn't the other Gift-Giving Phantasm...] But now we have no leads again.

Kaguya

Well, we still have presents to deliver, so let's visit the Scarlet Devil Mansion since we're close by.

Kaguya

Wow, you're actually doing your job tonight. How admirable!

Meiling

Come on... You make it sound like all I ever do is nap on duty. You won't find a guard more unfailingly alert than me.

Meiling

But enough about that... What's with the outfits? Are you going somewhere?

Eirin

We're on a journey to deliver presents. If children prove to be good in the light of our bullets, then they receive a gift.

Is there something you want?

Meiling

Huh? Me? Well... It is a bit cold today, so...

Meiling

...I'd love to eat a piping-hot meal prepared by Miss Sakuya.

Sakuya

Just when I think you're actually doing your job for once, I find you having a chat. And now you want me to cook for you?

Meiling

M-Miss Sakuya?! How long have you been there?

Sakuya

Since you said that you were "unfailingly alert."

Sakuya

So? Was there some mention of receiving what I want if I participate in a battle of bullets with you?

Toyohime

My, someone sounds interested. Do you have your heart set on something?

Sakuya

Actually, yes. I'd like...

Sakuya

...a gatekeeper who fulfills her duties. Though it does seem like I had one until a moment ago.

Meiling

You're so harsh... Guess I'd better show you I'm no slacker with this battle of bullets!

Eirin

Now then, time to see if the two of you were good or not.

Meiling

Yowch! I could hardly move―My joints were so stiff from the cold!

Sakuya

I underestimated how frigid it was out here tonight.

Eirin

Meiling was guarding the gate diligently. That's why we aren't inside the mansion.

Eirin

And from the battle we had just now, I can tell that she is doing her best to fulfill her duty.

Eirin

Surely you noticed that as well, fighting beside her?

Meiling

I promise I'll do my best, so please cook me something nice and warm to eat!

Sakuya

*sigh* All right. We did lose because of the cold, I suppose. Here's your share of the steamed bao I cooked, Meiling.

Meiling

Th-Thank you! I'll be sure to think of you as I take my time enjoying them!

Eirin

Well, I wonder where we should head now. We seem to have reached an impasse...

Reisen

Um... We've already been to the bamboo forest, the village, the Youkai Mountain, the lake, and now the mansion!

Sakuya

Oh, right, you said that you came here after watching Koakuma's puppet show, didn't you?

Reisen

That's right. We suspected her of delivering gifts as the Gift-Giving Phantasm, just like we are.

Meiling

Oh, you're talking about that rumor making the rounds in the village...

Sagume

[Yes, that's right!] Do you have any clues for us?

Sakuya

Well, I do know the tale that inspired Koakuma's show. The mistress judged our party decorations as inadequate...

Sakuya

So I started to look for better ones, and I came across a rumor about a sacred decorated tree in the Forest of Magic.

Is there really such a tree?

Reisen

You mean someone decorated it right where it grows?

Kaguya

Or does it glitter like the jeweled branch of Hourai and merely looks like it's decorated?

Sakuya

I'm afraid I don't know any further details.

Sakuya

But didn't a tree like that appear in the tale of the Gift-Giving Phantasm as well?

Toyohime

It's true that Koakuma's show and Lady Yagokoro's tale are alike, but not the same...

Toyohime

Perhaps the identity of our rival lies somewhere in the differences?

Eirin

I can see the logic in your words.

Eirin

We do not know if our rival is connected to this tree, but we also have yet to decide where to go next.

Reisen

Then, we'll look into it while delivering presents! It may give us some more leads. Let's go!

Eirin

So, according to Sakuya, there's a sacred decorated tree growing somewhere in this forest.

Reisen

But, Master... that information is far from reliable. How can a tree grow with decorations on it?

Maybe it was actually a giant mushroom?

Sagume

Are there decorated mushrooms in Gensokyo?!

Toyohime

Perhaps it is possible with all the impurities down here...

There's someone over there.

Marisa

Hey, PLAYER! And Eirin and Reisen, too! Your timing couldn't have been better!

Alice

That's my line! Can you hear us out for a second?

Sagume

It looks like something is going on...

Patchouli

It's nothing out of the usual. We're just fed up with Marisa's stupid fire.

Reisen

Surely you're used to her causing trouble by this point.

Alice

Of course we are... But I can't let it slide this time!

Alice

My house and all my precious dolls were nearly turned to ash!

Marisa

I already told you it was an accident. I just made a tiny little mistake with how much heat my hakkero put out...

Marisa

Besides, if I used the full power of my hakkero, there wouldn't even be a speck of dust left!

Reisen

Um, I don't think that's anything to be proud of...

Toyohime

So that's why there's no snow here.

Patchouli

We could've avoided all this if you'd just been content to have your tea inside.

Marisa

Come on, it doesn't snow every day. You've gotta enjoy it while it's here!

Patchouli

We could have enjoyed it just fine through the window. The frigid air out here cooled our tea.

Marisa

And that's exactly why I wanted to use my hakkero as a stove. We could stay warm and even boil more water!

Alice

And look what happened! My house was almost blown to smithereens!

Sagume

[That pretty view is gone now, along with all the snow that melted.]

Kaguya

But she seems sorry, so wouldn't that make her a good girl?

Marisa

What are you talking about, Kaguya?

Marisa

I'm always good!

Eirin

We are bringing presents to good children. As for the naughty ones... Well, they don't get any.

Patchouli

I heard that you granted Sakuya, Meiling, and Koakuma's wishes.

Alice

It's all the people are talking about in the Human Village, too.

Marisa

Oh, that. Something about the "light of bullets" or whatever. Let's hurry up and have a battle then!

Eirin

OK, what do you all wish for?

Alice, Marisa & Patchouli

Something the three of us can enjoy in peace!

Patchouli

We should do our best to make this wish come true. Marisa, make sure your Master Spark is extra strong.

Alice

Just be careful not to hit my house!

Marisa

Wow! I can't believe you're so ready for action! Sorry, PLAYER, but we're gonna win this one!

Eirin

Pardon me, but we haven't been judging who is naughty and nice all this time just to lose.

Marisa

Ack! My hakkero's outta control again!

Alice

*sigh* Well, at least my house is still standing...

Patchouli

Oof! All I wanted was a quiet cup of tea...!

Eirin

Something the three of you can enjoy in peace...

Eirin

Oh, I know. There's a big end-of-year sale in the Human Village.

I saw a lot of cute things there!

Reisen

Yeah! They had a lot of ingredients for medicine, so they're sure to have a bunch of stuff you could use for magic too.

Alice

That sounds good! We can rummage through the arcane materials and also restock our tea supplies.

Patchouli

I always have Koakuma do the shopping for me, but it might be nice to go take a look myself for a change.

Marisa

All right! What are we waiting for?! Let's go!

Eirin

Now we can continue our investigation of the sacred tree. Since those three turned out to be completely unrelated.

Reisen

Right... I wish there was someone who would give us more information...

???

Oh? What an unusual group in such an unusual place.

Hatate

This sure smells like a scoop. Did I actually get the drop on Aya?!

Reisen

I'd say you're even more of an unusual sight out here.

Hatate

Oh, it's just... I couldn't find any good stories for the New Year with thoughtography.

Hatate

So I went out on a little hunt. But I was just about to give up 'cause Aya had already been everywhere before me...

Sagume

I think you will find something if you look hard enough...

Hatate

Well, if you Lunarians can help me then I'm sure something good will come of it.

Kaguya

So you're looking for a scoop... When we saw Aya the other day, it didn't look like she had the time to take any pictures.

Hatate

That's the thing. Even Aya's running dry right now, so I figured this is my big chance to make my mark.

Toyohime

Lady Yagokoro, can we make her wish come true? She's working hard like my Reisen, so I really want to help!

Eirin

Of course we can.

Hatate

Ah! Wait, was it you guys? Are you the ones wandering around Gensokyo delivering presents?!

Hatate

I'd love to interview you!

Eirin

Hmm... We are a bit short on time, but we'll do it if you beat us in a battle of bullets.

Hatate

This will cinch the Kakashi Spirit News as the winner of the New Year's newspaper contest!

Sagume

[I won't let you interrupt Lady Yagokoro!]

Hatate

Hmm, this isn't good. I've been focused so much on thoughtography lately that I haven't done any exercise at all!

Hatate

"A Mystery to End the Year! The Gift-Giving Phantasm Appears!" Yes! Now that is a catchy headline!

Eirin

I do hope you'll write something nice about us.

Hatate

You got it! Be sure to pick up the next issue of the Kakashi Spirit News, and don't forget to subscribe!

Toyohime

An article about the Gift-Giving Phantasm and publicity for Eientei. Talk about two birds with one stone!

Eirin

It was probably the Bunbunmaru Newspaper's influence that made Hatate step outside and stop relying on thoughtography.

Reisen

That makes it sound like a good thing, but I do wish she'd stop with the random photo ambushes...

Reimu said the same thing.

Kaguya

Hey... Can you feel the miasma up ahead? Isn't it oddly strong?

Reisen

I don't think it's miasma. More like... misfortune? I'm picking up some ominous wavelengths!

Toyohime

Is misfortune any different from impurity?

???

Misfortune is an embodiment of the thoughts which make humans unhappy. Unlucky phantoms, the opposite of luck.

Hina

Keep your fingers crossed if you ever cross paths with me.

Eirin

A misfortune god is a rare sight indeed. What brings you here?

Hina

Actually... An awful lot of people came to see me this year. I can't keep up with warding off their misfortune.

Hina

It isn't good to draw in so much, so I left the Youkai Mountain and hid here so the misfortune wouldn't spread.

Kaguya

You continued taking in their misfortune even though it burdened you, and even kept it from leaking out.

Sagume

[That's good in my book!] It is time for the Gift-Giving Phantasm!

Hina

Gift-Giving Phantasm? Oh, so you were the ones making all that noise on the Youkai Mountain!

Eirin

We're judging whether people are good or not by having battles of bullets with them. Do you have a wish?

Hina

Well, it's not every day that you can get a wish granted. And I'm in a tight spot here...

Eirin

I think we may be able to help you.

Reisen

Master! Let me take care of this!

Hina

Whoa! Stop right there! Keep a safe distance from the misfortune, OK?

Hina

I'm not done just yet... Oops!

Reisen

What?! Sh-She tripped! But there wasn't anything to trip on...

Eirin

Maybe she built up too much misfortune?

Eirin

You're a good girl and so considerate of humans. You took in their misfortune and made sure it did not spread.

Eirin

We can't overlook this contagion either. We shall try to develop a new medicine.

Hina

That would be a huge help. I'm always busy at the end of the year, but this time it's been harder than usual.

Kaguya

Just make sure it is only misfortune that you draw in. It would be disastrous if you collapsed.

Kaguya

And we all need to help each other!

Sagume

I hope the misfortune can be handled before we ring in the new year.

Reisen

End of the year... Decorated tree...

Is something wrong?

Reisen

What if... the rumor of the decorated tree that Sakuya mentioned was about Hina?

Toyohime

Yes, now that you mention it...

Hina

What are you talking about? What decorated tree?

Eirin

I see it now... A red ribbon with green hair. She could be mistaken for a tree from afar.

Reisen

Maybe the fairies mistook Hina for the tree they heard about in Koakuma's puppet show?

Toyohime

We suspected Koakuma of being the other phantasm because it was similar to the tale of the Gift-Giving Phantasm.

Eirin

This means that someone...

Eirin

...is spreading a rumor about a mysterious tree closely related to the Gift-Giving Phantasm.

Kaguya

Do you mean our fellow gift-giver that gave presents out in the village?

Reisen

Hmm... We've got a grasp of what they have been doing, but who could this other party be?

Kaguya

That is the crux of the problem. And we're running out of time...

Eirin

Tomorrow is New Year's Eve. Can we deliver all the presents by then?

Hina

Oh my, I see you have your own troubles. I'll take your misfortune with me, so give it your best.

Eirin

Thank you. Maybe it's just a frame of mind, but I do feel a bit more at ease. We'll give it our all!

Eirin

Hm... We have visited approximately half of Gensokyo.

Reisen

Only half... But it's New Year's Eve tonight. We'll never make it.

Kaguya

What are you saying? We can't give up! We have to fight until the end!

Eirin

The Princess is right. All we can do is our best. We mustn't lose hope.

Toyohime

We'll be with you to the bitter end!

Sagume

I'll try my best!

Reisen

I didn't say I wouldn't help! Count me in!

But what should we do?

Determination alone won't get us anywhere...

Eirin

It's just as PLAYER says. But I have an idea.

Eirin

We don't have much time, so we won't be able to deliver all the presents at the rate we've been going.

Eirin

But we should use all the resources we have instead of waiting for a miracle. That's why we've come to Myouren Temple.

Reisen

Oh, now it all comes together.

Reisen

It's close to the village, and they have many human believers. We can deliver presents effectively from here!

Kaguya

Let's talk to Byakuren first, shall we?

Byakuren

Oh, the residents of Eientei, people of the moon, and Miss PLAYER. What a gathering. Welcome.

Eirin

Good evening. Are your apprentices busy with their duties right now?

Byakuren

Yes. A lot of people will come for the ringing of the bell, so I'm having Toramaru and the others prepare it.

Kaguya

As it happens, we're traveling around Gensokyo bringing presents to good children...

Eirin

...But at this rate, we're unlikely to make it to everyone in time. Could you lend us a hand?

Byakuren

What a kind act! It would be my pleasure to help!

Eirin

Thank you, Byakuren. I was hoping that you'd agree.

Reisen

This is great, isn't it, Master?!

Byakuren

However, there is something I must do if I'm to take on that task.

What is it?

Byakuren

As a representative of my faith, I must battle you first!

Eirin

What do you mean, "as a representative of your faith"?

Byakuren

I heard about your event from Miss Sanae. And from our point of view, it is heresy...

Byakuren

Problems of faith should be solved through battles of bullets, not words. This is the way of Gensokyo, correct?

Reisen

W-Well, I know something like that happened in the past, but isn't it usually the other way around?

Kaguya

Oh, what's the problem? It's not as if we haven't been shooting bullets all the way here.

Eirin

And it is never good to blindly follow different beliefs! I accept your challenge!

Byakuren

Here I come... Namusan!

Reisen

We're not going to lose! Let's go, PLAYER.

Byakuren

Incredible! I had heard the rumors, but it's different to experience it firsthand.

Byakuren

That was some fantastic bullet-play as well. The Gift-Giving Phantasm shall have our aid!

Eirin

Thank you! I truly appreciate it!

Byakuren

This is the main temple. Please leave the presents to be distributed here.

Eirin

Thank you once again for your assistance.

Byakuren

These days, managing a temple means occasionally conducting events from other religions as well.

Reisen

Wow, Myouren Temple really takes pacifism to a new level.

Kaguya

Shinto-Buddhism syncretism is one thing, but accepting faiths from other lands requires exceptional open-mindedness.

Byakuren

This is merely an extension of that syncretism... Namusan.

Byakuren

Buddhism came from a faraway country as well. We must be flexible. Pursue not those who leave―accept any who come.

Byakuren

All humans and youkai are welcome here. I'm sure one day, the moon and the Earth will understand each other too.

What a profound and wonderful thought!

Eirin

And thanks to that way of thinking, you were able to take us in so readily.

Kaguya

At any rate, this is a huge step forward for our present giving. Myouren Temple has our gratitude.

Byakuren

You're welcome. By the way, I heard the Gift-Giving Phantasm gives one what they wish for.

Toyohime

Yes. We give good children something to fulfill their dreams.

Sagume

[So if you could hear everyone out when you give them presents...]

Byakuren

Understood.

Byakuren

However... if you don't mind, perhaps you could hear my wish as well?

Sagume

[Is it something other than what we fulfilled with the battle of bullets?]

Kaguya

We've already battled, so state your wish. Your assistance proves beyond a doubt that you are good.

Byakuren

I was fighting as a representative of Buddhism earlier. Please think of this as my personal request.

Eirin

Ah, so there is something you would like for yourself?

Eirin

Very well. The Gift-Giving Phantasm shall judge your worth!

Byakuren

It's been so long since I was tested as an individual. Let's begin. Namusan!

Eirin

Such determination... PLAYER, don't underestimate her!

Byakuren

Oh my... Perhaps it was conceit on my part to assume I'd learned all your tricks in the previous match.

Eirin

It seems that your training must continue.

Eirin

So what is this personal wish of yours?

Byakuren

I would like you to bring our teachings to Hakurei Shrine!

Reisen

To Hakurei Shrine? As a part of syncretism?

Byakuren

You could say that, but there's been an underlying problem.

...Which is?

Byakuren

In our eyes, Hakurei Shrine is the spiritual heart of Gensokyo. This is the reason we can never hope to match it.

Reisen

Are we talking about that same shrine that's always so quiet you can hear a pin drop?

Kaguya

Usually it is. But on New Year's Eve, numerous humans and youkai gather there.

Kaguya

People who came to me for advice also said they were going to pay homage at Hakurei Shrine.

Eirin

Then there might already be a line for hatsumoude. If we go now, we can bring presents to many people...

Eirin

Besides, our fellow phantasm might have the same idea and show themselves there.

Let's hurry!

Sagume

[The New Year is almost here!]

Reisen & Toyohime

Master?! Lady Yagokoro?!

Eirin

Yes, let us depart for Hakurei Shrine at once!

Reisen

...Reimu? What are you doing?

Reimu

PLAYER! Reisen! I'm about to punish these swindlers!

Reimu

They said they'd give me a present, so I told them my wish, but they didn't give me anything!

Seiga

You can spin it however you like... but your request is ludicrous!

Yoshika

It's complete nonsense!

Reimu

Huuhh? How come?! All I did was ask for some offerings.

Reimu

What's a mere fifty trillion?!

Yoshika

No way! We don't have that kind of money. If Seiga says we can't, then we can't!

Eirin

We should probably intervene here...

Eirin

Reimu. We're acting as the Gift-Giving Phantasm by making the wishes of good children come true.

Reimu

Oh, the one they're talking about in the village and the Youkai Mountain? I saw it in the tengu's newspaper.

Reimu

So if I prove that I'm good in a battle of bullets, you better give me fifty trillion in offerings!

Reisen

Do you think we have such money?! PLAYER, we can't afford to lose this one!

Reimu

My offerings...!

Reisen

*pant* *pant* W-We won somehow... It's good I drank... Peerless Patriot's Elixir...

Reimu

So what? Are you going to accuse me of not working, too?

Eirin

Quite the opposite, actually. I know that you have been seriously investigating the Seal Crystals this year.

Reimu

Then stop grumbling and give me offerings! OFFERINGS!

Reisen

Master... Don't tell me you're actually going to give her that much.

Eirin

That is beyond even my means. But we still have to make her wish come true.

Eirin

I am afraid I don't have as much as you ask, but I'll offer what I can. Does this work?

Me too!

Reimu

That's right, just like that. Please come again! Bye!

Eirin

Yes, I'll work hard to slowly but surely... Wait? Um, Reimu?!

Yoshika

What, that's all it took? I really don't get the Hakurei shrine maiden...

Seiga

Phew, you saved us. Thank you for the mediation!

Eirin

All I can say is that you were in the wrong place at the wrong time... She was as unreasonable as ever.

Seiga

I couldn't believe my ears when I first heard her. But at least it's all resolved now!

Eirin

Yes, and forgive me for asking right after that happy end, but... you're the other Gift-Giving Phantasm, aren't you?

Reisen

That's why Reimu was angry that she didn't get what she wished for!

Eirin

Yes. Reimu's wish was the definition of unreasonable, but Seiga was trying to do the exact same thing as us.

Eirin

Well, since I first heard the story from Seiga, perhaps it was us who were doing the same thing as her.

Seiga

I do remember some people saying that they had already received presents. So that was your doing, then!

Seiga

We only managed to visit about half of Gensokyo this year, so we were worried that we'd be put out of business.

Eirin

Half?! We visited nearly the same ourselves!

Seiga

Oh, you did?! Did you only visit people who hadn't received presents yet...?

Eirin

I'm fairly sure... which means...!

Seiga

...We visited all of Gensokyo!

Seiga & Eirin

We delivered presents to everyone!

Kaguya

We did it, Eirin! I'm so glad we stayed true to the end!

Reisen

It's such a relief! And the rivals that had us worried were actually unseen helpers!

Seiga

We're so lucky, Yoshika! We get to stay in business!

Yoshika

If you're happy, I'm happy too! Good job. Well done.

Toyohime

I was on the edge of my seat for a bit, but we succeeded after all!

Sagume

[What a relief... I seriously feared that I misspoke at some point.]

Reisen

Those were a busy few days... But you can't beat this sense of accomplishment!

So... one last touch, and we're done!

Reisen

One last touch? Did we forget something?

Yoshika

Oh, I know! Seiga didn't get a present!

Seiga

M-Me?! But I'm the one giving them out...

Eirin

We have yet to give presents to each other!

Seiga

Well, that's true! I never thought I'd hear you say that, Yoshika. It makes me so happy.

Reisen

This means... we need to battle each other!

Kaguya

So, what do you wish for?

Seiga

We have already decided. How about you?

Eirin

Heehee, we have too.

Gift-Giving Phantasms

Peace and good fortune for all of Gensokyo!

Seiga

The last and biggest battle of the year! I want to go into the New Year without any regrets!

Yoshika

If Seiga's gonna fight, I'll do my best too!

Eirin

PLAYER, let us make this a New Year's Eve to remember.

Yoshika

Ugh! We looost! But it was fun!

Seiga

Goodness, have my skills abandoned me to celebrate the New Year?

Eirin

But I think the upcoming year will be a good one for all of us. Happy New Year!

Reimu

Happy New Year, PLAYER!

Happy New Year, Reimu!

Reimu

Last year was eventful, to say the least, but I'm glad we can celebrate the new one in peace.

True... We had a lot on our plates.

Reimu

In your case, it all started when you found yourself in Gensokyo.

Reimu

I've seen lots of folks like that, but in your case, it was particularly difficult.

Reimu

Seal Crystals popping up all over Gensokyo and us flying around to investigate... It was a lot.

I owe you big time for that...

Reimu

Don't sweat it. It wasn't your fault! You don't owe me anything!

Reimu

I'm just a bit worried about Yukari. She may not have shown it, but she worked really hard.

And now she's in hibernation.

Reimu

Eh, she'll be fine if she gets enough sleep. For now, let's worry about the people right here with us!

Reimu

Oh, I almost forgot! Here's your otoshidama, PLAYER!

Thank you, Reimu!

Reimu

That's the spirit! Now I know it was worth putting some more money into it!

Marisa

Heeey, Reimu!

Marisa

Happy New Year! The shrine is really crowded this year, huh.

Reimu

Somebody sure got here fast. Good job coming so early every year.

Marisa

Well, this year PLAYER's here too, which is one more reason to come!

Happy New Year, Marisa!

Marisa

Huh? PLAYER, is that a gift from Reimu? Looks like you're starting the year with a bang.

Marisa

So, Reimu, where's mine?!

Reimu

Why would I give you one?!

Marisa

Oho, no otoshidama money for me, eh? Guess I'll have to settle for a battle of bullets instead!

Reimu

Hold it! My precious patrons are here! It's dangerous!

Marisa

Oh, it's fine! With our skills, it'll be more like a show for all to enjoy!

Reimu

Hmm... It's true that battles of bullets are kind of like fireworks to a normal person, but...

Sanae

I heard everything! Happy New Year, everyone!

Reimu

Yeah, yeah, Happy New Year. *sigh* More noisy people is just what I need right now.

Happy New Year, Sanae!

Sanae

So? A battle for otoshidama? That's a particularly Gensokyo-like way of thinking outside the box!

Reimu

No, no, no. I have no intention of giving any money out, and I didn't agree to battle anyone either.

Sanae

Aw, c'mon! It'll be so much fun! And I want an otoshidama too!

Marisa

I see Sanae's figured out how things work here. Wouldn't refusing to battle tarnish the Hakurei shrine maiden's name?

Reimu

Huh? How'd you come to that conclusion?! Besides, shouldn't you be busy back home at Moriya Shrine?! Get going!

Sanae

No! I'm not going back until I receive my gift!

Aunn

It seems like you're all having a fun time! Let me join too!

Marisa

Hey, Aunn wants to fight too! All righty! The three of us should team up to get our gifts together!

Aunn

Aaauuuuun! Please give me an otoshidama if we win!

Reimu

Ugh, fine, I get it! I'll take all of you on at once then!

Wow, Reimu, you're raring to go as well.

Reimu

How could I not be? The shrine's finances are on the line! You help me out, too!

Reimu

I'm not going to start the year off with a loss. Let's do this, PLAYER!

Marisa

Hehe, the first battle of bullets of the year. Don't think we're gonna lose this either!

Marisa

Tsk, guess we're beat. She sure is ruthless when it comes to money.

Sanae

Aww, I thought I could do better, but I guess I have a ways to go before I'm at Miss Reimu's level.

Aunn

Me too. I'll get stronger so I can be of more help next time!

Reimu

*sigh* You all DID work really hard last year, so I'll splurge on you just this once.

Marisa

What?! You will? You sure you aren't Mamizou trying to play a trick on us?

Sanae

If this is true, then there must be a massive blizzard tomorrow. This is an incident in itself!

Reimu

Keep saying such things, and maybe I'll treat you to my Fantasy Seal instead.

Aunn & Sanae

Oh no, not that!

Reimu

Now then...

Reimu

I think more visitors are on the way. I can't have you lounging around here, got it?

Reimu

Be ready to help!

Reimu

Ugh... I'm freezing. Shall we have a cup of tea inside?

Reisen

Not so fast! Are you going to start the year off by lazing about?

Reisen

Oh! Happy New Year, everyone!

Reimu

Well if it isn't Reisen. Happy New Year.

Happy New Year, Reisen!

Marisa

What, you came to visit the shrine too? The line for the offering box is over there.

Reisen

Hehehe, I saw Reimu's attitude yesterday, so I came to make sure that she wasn't up to anything.

Reimu

I don't give in to such base desires on New Year's Day. And I'm busy handling Marisa and the others right now, anyway...

Reisen

I can see that.

Reimu

And just look how many visitors I've got this year!

Reimu

It's just like my wish came true! C'mon, fifty trillion!

Reisen

Aha... Yeah, sure. I guess you aren't free of avarice after all.

Marisa

Well, Reimu never changes, even if the year does.

Aunn

Certainly, Miss Reimu is always like this when she's at the shrine.

Reimu

So? What did you come here for? I bet you aren't just visiting to pray.

Reisen

You're as sharp as always. I didn't come to see you, but PLAYER.

M-Me?!

Reisen

Yes. Master and the princess wanted me to give you this gift as thanks for your help until yesterday.

Sanae

Lucky you, Miss PLAYER!

Marisa

Wow, an otoshidama from Eientei... Is there one for me too?

Patchouli

How about you return my books instead? No one's going to give money to someone who doesn't return what they owe.

Sakuya

Happy New Year on behalf of all of us at the Scarlet Devil Mansion.

Marisa

Oh, is Remilia not with you this time?

Sakuya

Lady Remilia and the young mistress are currently resting. They grew tired after celebrating the New Year a bit early.

Patchouli

Sakuya said she was going to visit the shrine, so I thought I'd tag along to draw a fortune slip.

Sanae

Hm... By any chance, did you know that Miss Marisa was here?

Patchouli

Well, I hoped she would be, but I wasn't expecting it.

Patchouli

However, it seems that I'm in luck. Return all the books you borrowed last year.

Marisa

Oh, you want your books as your New Year's gift? Sorry to break it to you, but I don't have them with me.

Patchouli

But you do have them sitting at home.

Patchouli

Go and bring them here now!

So she still hasn't given the books back...

Sakuya

That's right... Don't follow in her footsteps.

Sakuya

If you do, I won't be able to give you this.

Aunn

Oh! You're getting an otoshidama from Miss Sakuya too?! You're so popular, Miss PLAYER!

Sakuya

You did much for Gensokyo last year. This is to reward you for your efforts!

Reimu

Hey, Sakuya. What about me?!

Marisa

Yeah! Why does PLAYER get an otoshidama and we don't?!

Sakuya

*sigh* Fine. If you want gifts so badly, then you'll have to battle us with bullets.

Patchouli

And you, Marisa, give me my books back! I don't care if you want to or not! I'll retrieve them by force if I must!

Reisen

Now we're talking! I don't care about the New Year's money―I just want in on the fun!

Patchouli

Oof! The year began on a bad note for me... At this rate, I can only dream about my books making it home.

Marisa

Don't you worry! How many times do I need to tell you that I'll bring them back after I die?

Sakuya

In other words, you won't ever return them since Lady Patchouli will have to get them herself once you're dead.

Patchouli

I don't recall allowing you to borrow any. In fact, I expressly said you couldn't. But you just went and took them anyway...

Reimu

Don't waste your breath. It's Marisa, after all.

Reimu

That aside, Sakuya. You promised us otoshidama.

Sakuya

I'm sorry, but we still haven't gotten the books, so I'll hold on to them for the time being.

Marisa & Reimu

Whaaat...?!

Reisen

*sigh* I knew it would end like this... I guess the moral is to not borrow things for too long, or you'll cause trust issues.

Clownpiece

Reimu! PLAYER! It's time for my first battle of the year!

Clownpiece

Hehe, let's make it a crazy one!

Clownpiece

Shoot, that's a bad sign... But I got an otoshidama, so I guess it's fine!

Joon

What's yours is mine, and what's mine... belongs to the Yorigami sisters! So hand over the money!

Joon

If we don't get otoshidama here, we won't be having any lavish meals, Shion!

Shion

That's not good. I'll do what I can!

Shion

I'm sorry, Joon!

Joon

No, I'm sorry... Huh? You're giving us otoshidama?!

Joon & Shion

Thank you!

Marisa

Wow... I haven't seen such crowds in Hakurei Shrine for ages.

Reimu

I know, right? This is going to be a good year!

Aya

Ayayayaya, I can't believe there are so many people here... Oh, Happy New Year, everyone!

Happy New Year, Aya!

Reimu

Here comes the reporter! How about you stop cooking up fake stories this year?

Marisa

You could say that again, Reimu. But aren't you kind of late this year, Aya? You're usually the first one at the scene.

Aya

Well, I had to take part in the tengu New Year's celebrations. They've just let me go, so I dropped by to say hi.

Reimu

You mean to hang around us and look for another scoop, right?

Aya

Oho, has the crowd influenced you? Because I see you're starting to think like a tengu.

Marisa

Totally. Maybe try comparing her to a long-nosed tengu? That should make a good headline.

Reimu

My, you've got some nerve. I'll have you know that my faith and offerings are at full power now.

Aya

Ayayayaya... Both this awful crowd and Reimu's mood must be harbingers of disaster!

Marisa

I hear ya... At this rate, lightning's gonna blast a sacred tree, or maybe an earthquake will collapse the shrine.

Aya

Or some explosion could occur underground, and we'll sink down into the depths...

Reimu

You two sure know how to run your mouths... Cut it out already!

Alice

I see we're kicking off the year with some dangerous topics. Happy New Year!

Happy New Year, Alice!

Alice

Here, PLAYER. For all your hard work last year. Keep it up, OK?

Marisa & Reimu

And what about us?!

Alice

Marisa aside, I don't think you need it, Reimu. Your shrine is thriving today.

Marisa

What, you came because of the rumors too?

Alice

That's right. They say that Hakurei Shrine is exceptionally popular this year.

Is this so unusual for Hakurei Shrine?

Is this a rare sight?

Reimu

I told you to cut it out! I don't want PLAYER to mistake my shrine for some poverty-stricken place!

Marisa

It is though. I heard from Kaguya and the rest that you asked for fifty trillion on New Year's Eve.

Reimu

Marisa!

Aya

Ah, I love this place! There's always a scoop here!

Alice

Everyone's celebrating together, human and youkai. This is why everyone gathered here today.

Youmu

Oh! You're all here! Happy New Year!

Happy New Year, Youmu!

Alice

You're as honest and cheerful as always. It looks like you haven't got a care in the world.

Youmu

Really...?

Youmu

Well, flattery will get you nowhere―all I have to offer are swordplay and otoshidama!

Reimu

*sigh* I envy you, Youmu. You can just cut down everything before you without a second thought.

Marisa

Right, she just strikes before she has a chance to worry!

Reimu

Oh, Youmu! I'll take my otoshidama as an offering, OK?!

Marisa

You can give me one too if you want!

Youmu

Excuse me?! How can you be so greedy at the very beginning of the year?

Youmu

Please allow me to cut you both. Think of it as exorcising your misfortune!

Reimu

Hold on now! Let's not start the year with such violent talk!

Marisa

Hey, I'd say that goes a fair bit further than a little exorcism!

Youmu

I'll remove your bad luck so that you and your evil passions can rest in peace!

Marisa & Reimu

We're not phantoms!

Reimu

It's dangerous to swing sharp things in such a crowd! Sheathe your sword!

Youmu, please calm down!

Youmu

Grr... If I must. In consideration of PLAYER, I'll let you off the hook for now.

Youmu

Oh, right. Miss Sakuya and I prepared a New Year's meal!

Reimu

My, aren't you considerate? You two are some of the best cooks I know!

Marisa

I guess others will be along shortly. I hope you're ready, PLAYER!

Reimu

Let's go open the special sacred sake!

Aya

Wow, even after all that, it's straight on to the party, eh? I guess it wouldn't be New Year's at Hakurei Shrine otherwise.

Is it like this every year?

Aya

Yes. Well, at least every time I've taken part.

Reimu

Hey, PLAYER, hurry up and get over here!

Aya

Oh, Miss Reimu's calling you.

Aya

Come on, let's go! A New Year's party like this is sure to have some great photo opportunities!

Sanae

PLAYER, over here! Let's make this year another fun one!

Marisa

Yeah! Let's solve more Seal Crystal mysteries together!

Reimu

I think more folks will come, but let's start with who we've got for now.

Reimu

...Ahem!

Reimu

So, once again―May the upcoming year be kind to us all! Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!

Friends of Gensokyo

Happy New Year!

Reimu

Good morning, PLAYER. Did you have fun at the party?

*yawn* Good morning, Reimu...

I had a blast, but I'm so sleepy...

Reimu

Well, this is kind of a custom at Hakurei Shrine. You'll get used to it in no time.

Aunn

Miss Reimu! Please come back quickly!

Reimu

Oh! Sorry, Aunn. As you can see, we have a lot on our plates here, so I'd like to ask a favor of you.

What is it?

Reimu

I completely forgot to tell you yesterday, but I've got to pay some courtesy calls today.

Reimu

The thing is, I'm so busy dealing with the visitors to the shrine...

Reimu

So I thought that maybe I could put you on the job. Gotta work to eat, remember?

Reimu

So could you make the rounds on my behalf?

On your behalf?

W-Well, I can try...

Reimu

Don't worry! Everyone's busy with their new year celebrations now, so you'll be fine as long as you don't bother them!

Reimu

And I doubt anyone will cause any mischief this early in the year... But be careful, OK?

Marisa

Hey, Reimu, PLAYER. What are you two talking about?

Reimu

Look, it just so happens that Marisa has nothing else to do either!

Marisa

Hey, I'm no loafer... So? What were you talking about?

Reimu

I was asking PLAYER to pay some courtesy calls for me. But I'm worried about sending her out on her own...

Reimu

That's why you're gonna go with her!

Marisa

Oh really? Forcing her to do your dirty work now? You should be more assertive, PLAYER.

But I want to help if I can!

I have to work to eat...

Marisa

It's not like I don't have anything to do, but I can make some time. Guess I'll tag along!

Thank you, Marisa!

Marisa

No problem!

Marisa

So who are we supposed to visit?

Reimu

Make sure you go to the school, Moriya Shrine, and Myouren Temple... In any order that's convenient for you.

Marisa

The school? Does Keine teach classes this early in the year?

Reimu

I don't think she does. Just go and ask her to bring the kids to pray at Hakurei Shrine.

Marisa

Heh, talk about shrewd.

Marisa

Well, you heard her, PLAYER. Let's start by visiting the village!

OK!

Aunn

Miss Reimuuu!

Reimu

Oops, I forgot about Aunn! All right, don't let me down, you two!

Marisa

Leave it to us!

Marisa

Whoa! The New Year's market sure is popular!

Marisa

The big year-end sale was quite a sight too... And it was all thanks to you and the others that I learned about it!

Marisa

Thanks again!

Akyuu

Oh, Miss PLAYER, Miss Marisa! Happy New Year!

Kosuzu

Happy New Year! Thanks for your business last year!

Akyuu, Kosuzu! Happy New Year to you both!

Marisa

Happy New Year. Are you heading to the market?

Akyuu

No, we're going to visit Miss Keine.

Marisa

What a coincidence, so are we! Let's go together!

We're going on Reimu's behalf.

Akyuu

I heard that Hakurei Shrine is actually swamped with New Year's visitors for once.

Kosuzu

Wow, there are people going to the shrine that's said to be home to youkai? I gotta go check it out later!

Kosuzu

There might be youkai blending in with the humans!

Akyuu

For crying out loud, Kosuzu... But I guess we could at least visit Hakurei Shrine for the new year.

Marisa

Come on, let's get a move on already!

Keine

Oh, Happy New Year! It looks as though this year will be particularly lively.

Mokou

I didn't think there'd be any visitors other than me. What are you all doing coming to the school this early in the year?

Miss Keine and Mokou! Happy New Year!

Keine

Children are of the wind. They don't feel the cold, so they've got to be healthy and energetic! As to why this saying―

Mokou

K-Keine! No need to give us a lecture at the very beginning of the year!

Keine

Hm? Yes, perhaps you're right. In that case, shall we have a battle of bullets as exercise?

Mokou

Whoa, Keine suggesting we throw some bullets around? That's a rarity. OK, count me in!

Marisa

You're on! Nobody's as ready and rearin' to go as me! And I'll prove it with my power!

Marisa

If I put on a fierce display, gimme an otoshidama!

Mokou

You never miss a chance, do you?

Kosuzu

We'll join in on the fun then, too! We aren't used to this bullet stuff yet, but we'll show you what we're made of!

Marisa

It's settled, then! I'll prove that raw power is the essence of bullet battles to you two as well!

Kosuzu

Let's battle, Miss PLAYER! There's New Year's money on the line!

Akyuu

Goodness, Kosuzu... But if we must do this, we can't allow any half-measures!

Keine

Haha, you didn't disappoint. Looks like you've grown quite accustomed to battling, PLAYER.

Marisa

This girl is getting into battles of bullets practically every day. Of course her skills are on point.

Akyuu

That was certainly impressive. Perhaps we should learn a thing or two from you...

Kosuzu

I'll make this my New Year's resolution! I'm gonna practice battles of bullets as much as I can!

Mokou

I like the sound of that. And as they say, New Year's is the key to the year. Good luck!

Keine

Yes, that's a commendable attitude. I just ask that you don't skimp on your normal studies too.

Kosuzu

S-Sure thing, Miss Keine. It's all about maintaining a balance between academics AND battles, right?

Keine

Precisely! The New Year's holiday isn't just for lazing about!

Keine

In fact, there is no better time to reflect on oneself.

Keine

As Mokou said earlier, New Year's is the key to the year. By this we mean―

Mokou

Urk... Keine's started lecturing again. She never stops once she gets going.

Kosuzu

S-Say, Miss Mokou! Since you're here, maybe you could help me with bullet battle training?

Mokou

S-Sure! Keine, I'm gonna go do some New Year practice with Kosuzu!

Keine

Huh? Hey! Where do you think you're going?! I'm not done yet!

Akyuu

Some things never change.

Marisa

Looks like this is gonna be another year full of fun battles!

Akyuu

Hehehe, I see you haven't changed either.

Maybe we should go to Moriya Shrine next...

Akyuu

Oh, I just saw Miss Sanae earlier. She was inviting people of the village to come visit her shrine.

Marisa

Sanae's here too? Then we should join up with her. OK, let's track her down!

Sanae

Hello, everyone! Go this way, and you'll arrive at Moriya Shrine. Please mind your step as you proceed!

Sanae!

Sanae

Oh, if it isn't Miss PLAYER!

Sanae

Hm? You're alone and called out to me... Then you must be heading to Moriya Shrine!

I was with Marisa just a while ago.

I'm supposed to pay a few visits on Reimu's behalf.

Sanae

Hm, I see. So you were headed for Moriya Shrine...

Sanae

Well, I'm glad you approached me! Lady Kanako and Lady Suwako will be delighted!

Sanae

I was just about to guide everyone to the shrine, so let's ride the aerial tramway together!

Kanako

My, representing the Hakurei shrine maiden must be hard. Happy New Year. Perhaps I should give you an otoshidama.

Suwako

Happy New Year, PLAYER! Have some hot tea with us before you go on your way!

Happy New Year!

Thank you very much!

Kanako

Now go pay your respects to the gods of Moriya Shrine. And don't forget about our Sanae!

Suwako

Yes, please do. She is cute and a wind priestess as well. It could make for a very beneficial year!

Sanae

P-Please stop... It's super awkward having you say all that while I'm here!

But it's true that you're cute.

Kanako

Right? She grows prettier by the year.

Suwako

And this year, she's in particularly high spirits. Maybe thanks to you. Yet another one of her charms!

Sanae

Whoa! Please, now I'm really embarrassed! Enough already!

???

Dear me, I see your shrine is quite lively too.

Byakuren

Happy New Year. May it be kind to us all.

Kanako

Ah, the dwellers of Myouren Temple. Happy New Year to you as well.

Suwako

Oho, are you making your greetings together? How nice of you.

Shou

Hijiri said she was going, so we tagged along. We came to your shrine first since it's the closest.

Mamizou

Oh ho ho! And I merely came along since I thought it would be amusing.

Mamizou

If I knew that you were here, PLAYER, I would've brought an otoshidama for you.

Minamitsu

Say what? You were literally begging Hijiri for a gift. And the gifts you gave US turned out to be nothing but leaves!

Kanako

Well, well, well. Since everyone's here...

Kanako

...why don't we celebrate the new year with a bang?

Suwako

Ooh, that's a great idea!

Suwako

By bang... You mean a battle of bullets, right?

There's nothing more Gensokyo than that!

Byakuren

May we join you?

Sanae

But of course! Everyone's welcome!

Mamizou

Still, all of us together would put the odds a bit much in our favor... OK! Byakuren and I will represent Myouren Temple.

Minamitsu

I suppose that's only fair... The honor is yours this time.

Shou

Miss PLAYER, I look forward to facing you on another occasion!

Sure thing!

Kanako

Now then, this is what I call a lively New Year celebration. It would be a pity not to have some fun. Come at us!

Sanae

Yeah! This battle will be a glimpse into what comes this year, so let's stay sharp out there, PLAYER!

Mamizou

Oh ho ho, a fine battle of bullets is brewing! I think I'll help turn up the heat.

Mamizou

Goodness me, that was impressive. You've certainly learned a thing or two from all the battles you had last year!

Kanako

You've improved, Sanae. I'm sure that this year will see you become an even more accomplished incident resolver!

Suwako

Yes, indeed. I daresay this is a very good omen.

Sanae

Lady Kanako, Lady Suwako... You were going easy despite it being your first battle of the year, right?

Kanako

Well... You know. It would jinx the new year for PLAYER if she lost.

Suwako

We thought we were being considerate. But I suppose you aren't happy about it?

Sanae

I'd lie if I said I was, but I appreciate your kindness nevertheless!

Byakuren

Oh my. I see not only Sanae, but also PLAYER receives special favor at Moriya Shrine.

Byakuren

Not that I'm any better.

Shou

Good job, Hijiri. You did quite well also, Miss PLAYER.

Minamitsu

We look forward to facing you next time!

Me too!

Sanae

OK, Miss PLAYER! Looks like we have lots of training ahead of us!

Byakuren

Then we must train as well, so we are not overtaken!

Kanako

Now then, we should probably get back to receiving our visitors.

Byakuren

We should be off to our next stop as well. We'll drop by Hakurei Shrine later.

Suwako

We're also going once we've finished with our duties!

Sanae

All right, I'll guide those visitors who have finished their prayers. You come this way too, PLAYER.

Sanae

Thank you for coming to see us. So where are you off to now?

Good question...

Sanae

You don't know? That's troubling...

Yukari

Wonderful. I had been hoping to invite you somewhere.

Sanae

Yikes! M-Miss Yukari?! When did you get here?!

Yukari

Teehee, just a moment ago. I heard from Reimu that PLAYER is making courtesy calls.

Yukari

If you haven't decided where to go yet, how about you come with me? You are welcome to come too, Sanae.

Sanae

Thank you for the invitation, but I've still got other duties.

Sanae

I'll be at Hakurei Shrine later, so tell me everything then!

Yukari

It would be my pleasure. Now, let me open a gap, and let's be on our way.

Now―Whoa?!

Yukari

All right. I've brought one more person. Here we are, Yuyuko.

Yuyuko

Oh, you're much earlier than I expected. There is still plenty left for you.

Youmu

Oh, Miss PLAYER! I'm glad you came!

Youmu

*huff* *huff* There's still plenty of cooked mochi rice!

Seiran

What... did you say? *pant* *pant* Bring it all here! I'll pound it all!

Yukari

Are they still at it?

Yuyuko

I'm not one to turn down seconds of something so tasty. But they just don't seem to want to stop...

Wh-What's going on?!

Ringo

Allow me to explain.

Ringo

This is our first business stop of the year, and we're treating everyone to mochi and dango, as you can see.

Ringo

The Prismriver Ensemble was having a concert too, so we went all out and made a lot...

Ringo

...but it turned out to be way too much. Well, I thought that with this many people it would be fine...

Ringo

Well, apparently, it wasn't.

Lunasa

I-I can't stuff in anymore...

Merlin

Me neither...

Lyrica

I-I'm too full... How are we going to do our next show...?

Komachi

I'm stuffed as well. If I eat any more, my boat's gonna sink on the way home...

Ringo

You started this, shinigami, when you sparked a fight between those who eat mochi and those who pound it.

Komachi

C'mon, it was the first competition of the year. And it would be a good sign for those who win.

Yuyuko

Everyone has apparently given up already, so I asked Yukari to call for help.

Ringo

I don't like that they're making dango that will just go to waste. I keep telling them to stop, but they won't listen.

Youmu

*huff* *huff* Pound MOCHI!

Seiran

*huff* *huff* Make DANGO!

Ringo

It's mostly because they're so stubborn. They're taking it way too seriously.

Yukari

That's why I brought you here, PLAYER.

I see!

Yukari

I invited you to eat with us... But I'd like you to help me stop those two first.

Yuyuko

Yes... I think we have enough for now. Youmu, I need to burn some calories, so we're having a battle.

Youmu

What?! Lady Yuyuko, there is still loads of rice! I promise I'll say nothing about you overeating today!

Yuyuko

Oh... But I ate a lot already. And everyone else is completely full.

Ringo

Exercising after eating―good idea. We want in on the action too!

Youmu

*pant* *pant* I-I can't move anymore... Th-The rice...

Seiran

M-Me neither... But at this rate, we'll run out of mochi...

Yukari

That's all right. It would be more of a waste if we had to throw it away, don't you agree?

Yukari

Everyone here is absolutely delighted with your mochi.

Youmu & Seiran

I'm so happy to hear that!

Lunasa

But what are we going to do with the remaining mochi?

Merlin

Good point! Not even Miss PLAYER can eat all of that herself.

Komachi

I think I'll take some to Lady Eiki... I was meant to be resting on my holiday, and she won't like that I ate mochi before her.

Lyrica

Let's give some to Koakuma and the fairies! She's reading books to them by the lake!

Ringo

Oh, that's a good idea!

Yukari

But that still leaves us with quite an excess amount.

Um, I've got an idea...

Youmu

O-Oh, really?! What do you propose?!

Yuyuko

Now, now, Youmu. Calm down. You're scaring PLAYER.

Youmu

I-I'm sorry...

Seiran

I was worked up because of the first year's sales and made way too much without thinking...

Seiran

This is good mochi, so I don't want it to go to waste! Let's hear this idea of yours, PLAYER!

Yukari

And here we are! Hakurei Shrine!

Youmu

It's still packed with New Year's shrine-goers... Miss Reimu and Miss Aunn seem quite busy.

Yuyuko

Here we can give mochi not only to humans, but also to the gods and youkai planning to visit.

Yukari

Heehee, I wonder how Reimu will react when she sees us handing out souvenirs.

Reimu

Oh, you're back... and you brought company. Just when I thought things had settled down... What's going on this year?

Reimu

But, I can't deny that all the offerings are nice!

Yukari

You're working so hard that we decided to bring you a small present.

Reimu

Oh, aren't you considera―WHAT IS THAT?! How much mochi did you bring?!

I thought we could all eat zouni soup together.

Reimu

That's so kind of you. You're right―zouni is a necessity on New Year's.

Youmu

We've also got some mochi sprinkled with roasted soybean flour, and some filled with sweet bean paste!

Youmu

We got carried away and made too much...

Seiran

Well, I think it's safe to say that no mochi will go to waste now. Thank you so much.

Reimu

You had a hard time, eh? By the way, do you know why we eat zouni on New Year's?

Ringo

Nope. Humans from the village come to buy mochi for zouni, but I don't know why.

I never thought about it either...

Reimu

There are many theories... But in general, it's said that eating these foods bestows power from the gods.

Ringo

Wait... Does that mean we're eating the offerings we gave them to begin with?

Yuyuko

Well... We make an offering of mochi made from fresh rice to welcome Toshigami on New Year's Day.

Seiran

Oh, I know this part! You're talking about kagami mochi, right?!

Reimu

That is also a kind of offering. We open the kagami mochi and eat it once New Year's ends.

Yukari

We eat it as mochi gifted to us by the gods. This is what most people consider to be the origin.

Reimu

Anyway, it's eaten on special occasions. Even if you eat it without any deeper meaning, this mochi will bring you luck.

Youmu

I see... It sounds like we came very close to wasting something really precious.

Yuyuko

But it's not a problem, since ultimately we'll eat it here together. The mochi Youmu made is most delicious.

Reimu

Hehe. OK, enough chit-chat. We've got preparations to make, so you guys have to help too!

OK!

Reimu

Well, the zouni is ready. What about you?

All set!

Marisa

I came running as soon as I heard we were going to eat zouni. Keine and the rest are coming too, so make some more.

Marisa

I gotta say, though... Are there even more people here than before? And this isn't everyone, right?

Sanae

Miss Reimu! Miss PLAYER! Things calmed down at Moriya Shrine, so I'm here!

Sanae

Lady Kanako, Lady Suwako, and the dwellers of Myouren Temple are on their way too!

Reimu

Ack! Even more... Well, not like that's anything unusual, and we still have plenty of mochi...

Reimu

Time to whip together more zouni, Aunn!

Aunn

Aaaunn! Leave it to me!

Youmu

Looks like we've got more fun ahead!

Yukari

Let us pray that this year is benevolent to us as we partake of this meal.

Reimu

All right. Does everyone have their zouni? Here's to a year full of good days!

To the New Year!

Friends of Gensokyo

To the New Year!

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'Tis the Season for Bullets

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