Prologue

Murasa Minamitsu had never been one to turn down a crew with potential. In all her years of sailing, she knew never to let first impressions cloud her judgement. After all, people on land are always different when they get on the open seas. However... this time was different. The S. S. Palanquin had fallen into a state of disrepair, as she hadn't seen a crew in over 6 months. Desperate, Murasa had turned to every bar and pub in Gensokyo to find SOMEONE to help her on this godforsaken ship. Her search had proved fruitless, until she had eavesdropped on a conversation in a quaint little pub in the human village.

"Did you hear about that group of humans that recently crossed over the border?"

"Surprisingly, I didn't. The Bunbunmaru News hadn't reported on it."

"You still read that silly old newspaper? Ah, no matter. A group of 8 humans just kinda... appeared in front of the Hakurei Shrine."

"Humans can still do that? It's been so long since it last happened."

"Apparently so. Though, they don't seem like regular humans. They've got to have SOME sort of power, to come here."

Murasa turned to the patron next to her, hoping to garner more information.

"So, did ya happen to hear about those 8 humans that recently showed up?"

The white haired... youkai? Next to her took a slow, decisive drink from her glass. Murasa could clearly see she had information, but was reluctant to tell it.

"Perhaps I did, perhaps I didn't. Who needs to know?"

"Ah, well, see, I was looking for a crew to serve on my ship. She's... fallen into rough waters, and as of late, I just haven't been able to keep a crew."

"...I may be able to help, but tell me something, ship ghost: how do I know I can trust you?"

Thinking carefully, Murasa formulated a tactful response. If she didn't respond juuuust right, she could kiss her chances of finding a crew goodbye.

"Well... um... there isn't much I can offer in the way of trust, but, I can guarantee you that I've been sailing for quite a long time, and not of single one of my crew has been lost to the briny depths. Human or otherwise."

The white haired woman stared into the depths of her glass, with a furrowed brow, and an intimidating scowl. After what seemed like ages, she set down her glass, and turned to the captain with a slightly softened expression.

"While I still don't trust you 100%, I do know that you're a member of Byakuren's little squadron, so you have at least some credit. I am Keine Kamashiwara. Pleased to make your acquaintance. I do indeed know something about those eight humans you seek. Come see me here, and we'll talk more."

After giving Murasa a piece of paper with a hastily scribbled address on it, Keine quickly rose from her seat, tossed a few bills onto the bartop, and disappeared into the balmy night air. Giving just a few moments of hesitation, Murasa chased after her. Tonight may just be her lucky night after all.