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Chapter 11 – Calm Before the Storm

The trio of Ran, Chen, and Genichiro continue to make their way through the Forest of Magic. A short time ago, Yukari had taken the group of three to Kourindou, with the intention of getting Rinnosuke to help out in the coming war. After her business was finished, she left the group behind in order to ask for the help of Yuyuko and Youmu in Hakugyokurou, leaving orders to Ran to further recruit for the coming battles. Ran knew no one Yukari would not recruit personally, interpreting the command as an order to rest and prepare herself and her shikigami. Genichiro offered them a chance to join him in his return to the Scarlet Devil Mansion, leading to their current situation.

"Blasted fairies," Genichiro mutters, as he sends out a danmaku blast at one of the small fairies in the forest. The recent turn of events has stirred up the fairy population, resulting in the random attacks typically seen during an incident in Gensokyo.

"If the fairies are attacking as they are, it's a sure sign an event is about to shake Gensokyo," Ran states, as she takes out a pair of fairies foolish enough to attack her.

"Fairies are fun to play with in small numbers, though. I like it when they get like this!" Chen shouts, while jumping through the air and playfully swatting at a few of the fairies.

"Maybe we should just fly over the forest as opposed to walking through it?" Ran asks.

"We could, I'm surely considering it, but these little ones do make for some good target practice, even if they are acting like a bunch of pests," Genichiro replies, while sniping a group of fairies laying in wait at the end of the path before them.

A wave of twenty fairies suddenly appear and begin attacking the trio. Genichiro has a good laugh while grazing through all of their shots, as does Chen, while Ran lets out a low growl in response. Before the trio can attack the group, a wave of fire danmaku takes out the group.

"Blasted imps do nothing but give us all a bad name," comes a voice from behind the group. The source of the voice flies towards the group, just hovering above the ground. The person being a female fairy. She has the height and form of a ten year old, though she does have A-cup sized breasts. She has long, red hair and blue eyes. She is wearing a red, one-piece dress with short sleeves and red shoes with orange socks. She has two pairs of red, translucent wings, not directly attached to her body.

She is followed by another fairy with pink hair in a ponytail, tied with a band made of pink carnations and red eyes. The other fairy is about the same height as the first, but has a more childish body. She is wearing a pink, one-piece sleeveless dress over a white shirt, and pink shoes with red laces and white socks. She has a pair of blue, translucent wings, not directly attached to her body.

"Nice little show, come to challenge us?" Ran asks.

"Nothing of the sort. I've been too busy fighting off my own kind, and it's starting to get rather tiring. Bad enough I keep having to look out for these strange men," replies the fairy with red hair.

"Strange men?" Genichiro asks.

"Yeah, men in strange armor. They attacked and captured a friend of mine a little while ago. I was hoping to go see if she was okay today, but all the other fairies are riled up over something. It's like an incident is about to take place," the fairy replies.

"You've dealt with the armored men before?" Ran asks.

"Yeah. The one in red blew my head off! I'm glad I didn't feel it, but still," the fairy replies.

"What's your name, if I may ask?" Genichiro asks.

"Hm? I am En, this is Kanna. I know you are Yakumo Ran. This must be your shikigami, Chen. I've never heard of, nor seen you before," the red haired fairy replies.

"Ookami Genichiro, kind of new to here. Long story short, I come from another world, the place where the armored men came from," Genichiro explains.

"From another world? Interesting. Did the gap youkai, Yukari-sama, bring you here?" En asks.

"No, I used the technology of the armored men to get here," Genichiro replies.

"You must know a lot about them, then. I don't suppose you know what their weaknesses are?" En asks.

"We would love to entertain you, but we need to continue on our way," Ran says.

"Fine, fine. I won't stand in your way. I have my own destination in mind," En replies, while heading off with Kanna in the direction Ran, Chen, and Genichiro are heading. After walking along for a while, En stops, wondering why the trio is following her.

"I thought you had somewhere to be?" En asks.

"We do. Where are you heading?" Ran asks.

"To that mansion on the lake," En replies.

"Then it would seem we have the same destination," Genichiro states.

"Odd that a pair of fairies would be interested in visiting the Scarlet Devil Mansion," Ran states.

"From what you've said, you know Flandre, right?" Genichiro asks.

"Yeah. I was there when she was taken. The one in red is rather strong; I only managed to put a couple of scratches on him," En replies.

"You managed to actually cause damage to him?" Genichiro asks.

"Is that so hard to believe?" En replies.

"You're not the typical fairy, are you," Ran asks.

"A century ago, I was just as cocky as the ice fairy that resides around Misty Lake. It took another for me to finally get past that," En replies.

"So you're over two hundred years old, then?" Genichiro asks.

"Rather long lived for a fairy. Most re-merge with the nature they came from after a century and a half, mainly from being killed too many times," Ran states.

"I'm more cautious than the average fairy. Maybe it's because all of the fairies I grew up with were killed so many times they did as you say. Seeing that taught me to work on my abilities more, and be less spontaneous. I'm strong for a fairy, but I won't be challenging Lady Yukari to a fight anytime soon," En explains.

"A wise choice, Lady Yukari is not one to take lightly," Ran replies.

"I'm well aware; I've never met her personally, but I've heard more than enough," En states.

"She sounds scary, " Kanna replies.

"Only if you get on her bad side," Ran says.

"Something Jin should make himself more aware of," Genichiro mutters to himself.

"She's no more scary than Flandre, really, and I was scared to death of her up until we talked to her," En states.

"So you really are friends with Flan-chan, huh?" Genichiro asks.

"Yeah. You're one of her friends, too?" En asks.

"Yep. She kind of dropped in on me one day," Genichiro replies.

"She dropped in on you?" Kanna asks.

"Literally," Genichiro replies.

"Um... literally?" Kanna asks.

"He means Flandre actually dropped on top of him. Sorry, Kanna is as shy as she is immature, but she's still my closest friend. Anyway, it'll be a few minutes before we get to the mansion. I don't suppose you three could explain what's going on? Something tells me you know what's riled up all the other fairies," En states.

"I suppose there's no harm in telling you. It is part of my orders," Ran states, "If I were take my orders literally, anyway."

Ran and Genichiro explain to En and Kanna the events that had taken place since they had been in the fight where Flandre was captured. Kanna didn't understand some parts of the story, leaving En to fill in the details for her. En was surprised at the idea of a parallel world, but took it in along with the rest of the story, finding no reason to doubt any part of it.

"I see. A war against Gensokyo, that's why the balance has been off," En replies.

"The balance?" Chen asks.

"The balance of nature. It's always disrupted in the wake of an incident. Usually, the scale tips towards youkai; it's rare for it to tip towards humans, such as it is now. Whichever way it gets disrupted, though, it stirs up the fairies as a result, since they are easily controlled by the nature they are a part of," Ran explains.

"A greater fairy such as myself is separated enough from nature to not be affected by it. Kanna here isn't at that level, and would be attacking you right now if I wasn't with her, no offense, Kanna," En replies.

"It's okay, En. I know. That's why I'm trying to get stronger, so I can be like you one day," Kanna states.

"I didn't know there was a fairy like you in this land," Ran says.

"I've distanced myself from the incidents that have taken place. I prefer to stay away from those of greater power, and only attack to defend myself. That's probably why you've never heard of me before," En replies.

"It would be nice if the rest of your kind would take such precautions," Ran states.

"But that wouldn't be as fun!" Chen replies.

"That, and this walk would be a little too uneventful," Genichiro says, as he sends out a burst of danmaku as a small group of fairies charging towards the group.

The group finally emerges from the forest, and starts out over the lake. A few more fairies appear to attack to group, but no strong youkai or armored men appear.

"So, that base they had was under here, right?" En asks.

"Yeah, a little ways off in that direction," Genichiro replies, while pointing off to his right.

"I thought so. A lot of the fairies were talking about seeing a massive explosion over there. I was resting at the time, so I didn't see it. I thought they were just exaggerating some spell card duel between a pair of youkai, so I didn't think anything of it at the time. To think those men were there the whole time, though," En states.

"You know, we haven't seen Cirno out here," Kanna says.

"You're right. She's usually running around out here, always looking for a chance to prove she's the strongest, especially during an incident. Odd to not see her running around with the other fairies out here," En replies.

"She might be elsewhere. She did say she was going to do some recruiting of her own," Genichiro states.

"I can't imagine who she had in mind, though," Ran replies.

"More fairies, I'm sure. I hope it's at least greater fairies. I hate to say it, but bringing common fairies to a fight will help one lose before helping one to victory," En states.

"I would tend to agree, though, they do make good distractions," Ran replies.

"We do?" Kanna asks.

"Well, Flan's sister did throw Cirno at an armored man. I would have liked to see that one," En replies.

"Me, too," Kanna replies.

Genichiro, Ran, and Chen chuckle a little at the thought, having also wished they had the chance to see it personally as they continued along, the island finally coming into view.

"Well, looks like clear sailing from here. I am starting to get tired of frying fairies," Genichiro says.

"Aw, but I like playing with the fairies," Chen replies.

"Guh, I swear, that hurts, even though it shouldn't," En mutters.

"Not every fairy can be like you, right, En-san," Kanna asks.

"Unfortunately, but it would be nice if more tried," En replies.

"Let's get going. I would rather not be out here at night, lest we end up with even more problems," Ran states, taking the lead ahead of the rest of the group.

"It's more fun at night, though," Chen states.

"I would tend to agree, but we should rest up," Genichiro replies.

Chen nods in understanding as the group finally reaches the front gates of the Scarlet Devil Mansion.

"Stop right there!" Meiling shouts.

"Oh, hey Meiling. Good to see your still doing your best," Genichiro states.

"Ah, Genichiro. Hm, and Lady Yukari's shikigami. And you two... we've met before, right?" Meiling asks.

"En, and this is Kanna. We were with Flandre during that skirmish with the armored men," En replies.

"Oh, that's right. Well, I know Genichiro is welcome, but, I can't speak for the rest of you," Meiling states.

"Well, I guess I could just get Sakuya and see if she can clear it with Remilia," Genichiro replies.

"Sakuya is still out; she likely won't be back until tomorrow," Meiling states.

"Oh, well, I guess I could ask on my own," Genichiro replies.

"We could just make our way in," Ran states, allowing some killing intent to drift towards Meiling. Meiling shivers a little from the stare of the stronger youkai, but holds her ground.

"It would be best if we didn't make a mess. I would rather not upset Remilia, seeing as I'm her guest for the time being," Genichiro states.

"Very well," Ran replies, "Not that I was really going to attack without explicit orders from Lady Yukari."

Meiling allows Genichiro to pass, giving him entrance to the mansion. Upon entering, Genichiro makes his way for Remilia's chamber, only to be ambushed by Flandre.

"Gen-kun!" Flandre shouts.

"Ah, Flan-chan!" Genichiro replies. Flandre runs up to embrace Genichiro, who returns it with a warm expression.

"I was hoping you would be back soon. It feels lonely enough without Sakuya."

"Yeah, I was thinking she would be back by now. I guess there are some things even she can't speed up."

"She does like to spend a little time away from the mansion to solve incidents and such. Like this one time where we had this really long winter. Sakuya was out for a few days then."

"I can only imagine how much trouble it was keeping the mansion going during all of that."

"It wasn't that bad, but the fairy maids don't cook meals like Sakuya does."

"There's some things you just have to have the talent for. So, is your sister awake?"

"Hm, yeah? Why?"

"Well, I came with some others that would like entrance. Meiling won't let them in without orders, and none of them want to pick a fight right now."

"Who?"

"Lady Yukari's shikigami, and a couple of fairies, the ones you told me about before when you were at my old house in the world I came from."

"En and Kanna!"

"Yep!"

"Yay! Okay, let's ask Remi-nee together!"

Genichiro and Flandre continue to Remilia's chamber. Genichiro politely knocks on the door.

"Remilia, it's Genichiro," Genichiro states.

"And I'm here, too!" Flandre shouts.

"You may enter," comes Remilia's voice. Genichiro gently opens to the door to see Remilia sitting at a desk. She appears to be going through some spell cards.

"Remi-nee! We have guests!" Flandre shouts.

"Oh? What kind of guests?" Remilia asks.

Yakumo Ran and Chen, as well as a pair of fairies who are friends with Flan-chan," Genichiro replies.

"Yukari's shikigami?" Remilia asks.

"She left us behind at Kourindou, stating she had business elsewhere," Genichiro replies.

"I see. Well, I have no problem with their entrance, as long as they don't cause trouble. I don't need another headache right now," Remilia states.

"Something wrong?" Genichiro asks.

"Hmm? No, no, it's nothing," Remilia replies.

"Remi-nee, you don't sound like your okay," Flandre states.

"Well... this incident... it has me worried," Remilia replies.

"You, worried?" Flandre asks.

"They had me worried sick when they took you before. And now there's this war. I don't want to see any of you hurt, not even China. Your the only family I have left," Remilia replies.

"We're all strong, Remi-nee, we can take these people on!" Flandre shouts.

"But they were able to capture you before! How can you be so sure!" Remilia shouts in a frustrated tone.

"You just have to believe," Genichiro states, "Believe that things will work out."

"Just believe, eh?" Remilia asks.

"If you're worried about everyone getting hurt, then make sure no one gets hurt. If someone does get hurt, make the ones responsible pay for it ten-fold. That's how I've always done things. You just have to believe in your own strength," Genichiro replies.

"Yeah! I believe in myself, Remi-nee. We all do! And we all want to make sure you're safe, too. I don't want to see my Remi-nee get hurt, and I'll kyuu anyone that tries it!" Flandre shouts.

"You guys... thank you. I needed to hear that. I've just been so flustered, ever since they took you, Flan. Even when we got you back, I was still a little worried. I give my thanks to you, too, Genichiro. I'm glad to have been able to meet you," Remilia says.

"Hey, don't make it sound like we're never going to see each other again after this, okay? I promise you both we'll all make it through this just fine," Genichiro states.

"Yeah, and Gen-kun wouldn't break his promises! I know he won't!" Flandre shouts.

Remilia gives a slight grin in response, seeing her sister have so much faith in a man she hadn't known for longer than a week.

"You two... I see, it's fate. Fate brought you two together, and it'll keep you two together. I've never been wrong before, thanks to my ability," Remilia thinks to herself, while still bearing her grin.

"You better keep that promise, Genichiro. I'll kill you if you die, got it?" Remilia asks.

"Understood, Remilia!" Genichiro shouts, like a soldier taking an order.

"Go let our guests in. I'll inform the maids to prepare meals for additional company tonight," Remilia says.

Genichiro and Flan nod as they leave Remilia's room, gently closing the door behind them. Remilia calls for a group of fairy maids, hoping at least one of them will be able to properly convey her orders to the others.

The pair return to the gate, where the others are waiting. Flan runs past everyone to hug En and Kanna at seeing them again.

"En! Kanna! You guys are okay!" Flandre shouts.

"We're fairies, we always come back, right?" En replies, while trying not to get crushes.

"Always... can't... breath..." Kanna stutters out.

Flandre releases the pair of fairies, with Kanna struggling to breath, while En shakes it off.

"We were worried about you after those armored men showed up, even more so when the fairies started going crazy," En says.

"We wanted to see if you were okay, so we made our way here," Kanna states.

"I'm glad you came! I was worried about you guys, too. Did you meet Gen-kun yet? He's really nice! I like him a lot!" Flandre shouts.

"We all came here together. He does seem like a good man," En replies.

"Thanks," Genichiro replies, while bearing a grin.

Ran coughs to get the groups attention, causing Genichiro and Flan to turn towards Meiling.

"Remi-nee says to let them in as guests," Flandre says.

"Okay, you guys are free to enter. Just stay out of trouble," Meiling replies.

"It's not like Marisa is with us, you know," Genichiro states.

"And black-white nee would just charge in, like she always does," Flandre replies.

"Well, yes, that's true," Meiling says.

"Relax, I would say the same, regardless. All guests welcomed to the Yakumo home should mind their manners, as I'm sure your mistress would agree of allowing guests into her home," Ran states.

Meiling nods before resuming her watch over the area. The Scarlet Devil Mansion gate guard continues to express the diligence she's had since the start of the incident, something which all the mansion staff wish she could have all the time.

The group enters the mansion to be greeted by Remilia, who does a small curtsy before speaking.

"Welcome to my home. Dinner will be served soon, in the mean time, I have some tea prepared along with some light before dinner snacks," Remilia says.

"That does sound nice, after a long day, right Chen?" Ran asks.

"Yes, Lady Ran!" Chen shouts.

"Remember to mind your manners, now," Ran states, "And keep your voice down, we're not outside."

"Okay, Lady Ran," Chen replies in a milder tone.

"A little tea does sound like a good idea," En replies.

"Oh, you're the ones from before, right?" Remilia asks.

"We are. I'm honored you remember us," En replies.

"You're no ordinary fairy. You seem to have a more solid head on your shoulders than most. Something I appreciate. Well, come now, let us enjoy some small talk over tea," Remilia replies, as she leads the group to her dining room.

Upon entering the large room, everyone notes there are nine seats set with small teacups and saucers. There are two plates with tea cakes set up at the far end of the room. Patchouli and Koakuma are already seated, with Patchouli next to the head of the table. Flandre takes a seat next to Remilia on the other side of the table, along with Genichiro to her right, followed by En and Kanna. Ran and Chen sit next to Koakuma. A pair of fairy maids pour some tea for everyone. Flandre starts off the conversation, sharing her adventures with En and Kanna. Even though the pair knew most of the story from before, they enjoyed hearing Flandre's version of it. They enjoyed Flandre's description of Genichiro's world, finding the place to be of interest. After the tale, dinner was ready, which consisted of roast leg of lamb, mashed potatoes, and a seasoned vegetable medley. Over dinner, Genichiro brought up his side trip with Yukari, and what took place at Kourindou, getting a grin out of Remilia and a chuckle out of Flandre at the idea of Genichiro being Rinnosuke's assistant. Genichiro grumbled to himself about it, furthering the grins he received. Ran kept a straight face, as did Patchouli, though Koakuma, Chen, and the fairies couldn't help but join in. For dessert, the maids prepared light cakes topped with fresh strawberries.

"Have to say, your maid staff is still fairly talented. Not at Sakuya's level, but much higher up than anything I could ever hope to accomplish," Genichiro says.

"Thank you. Sakuya has done well to train the fairy staff, in case of her absence," Remilia replies.

"You do have a fine household, Remilia, better so than Lady Yukari," Ran states.

"Lady Yukari sleeps too much to keep things organized," Chen adds, earning a glare from Ran.

"Sakuya is the best! I can't wait for her to get back," Flandre says.

"I won't argue the point, especially after that meal she made at my house. She's the MacGyver of the kitchen," Genichiro states.

"I would agree, from what I've heard," Ran replies.

"The what?" Remilia asks.

"Oh, Outside world reference, sorry," Genichiro replies, "Basically, it's a way of saying Sakuya could make an elegant meal, even if all she had to work with were some table scraps."

"She did that, too, during the long winter incident," Remilia replies.

"I remember that! I wondered where all the food came from, since she kept saying we were running out of stuff," Flandre says.

"Well, I think we should retire for the night. As much as I would rather remain awake, we need to be accustomed to being active during the day for the coming battle," Ran states.

"Yes, something that I've found to be rather difficult. I've already had rooms prepared for you in advance. The staff will show the way. Good evening, Ran, Chen," Remilia replies.

"Good evening to you, Remilia," Ran states before taking a bow. Chen does the same before the pair head off.

"I must get back to the library. I'll be sure to get some rest. I ordered Koakuma to force me to sleep with a spell, should I become too involved in one of my books. Goodnight, Remi," Patchouli says, before departing for the library.

"We should rest, too, Kanna. Thank you for the meal, Remilia-san," En says.

"You are welcome," Remilia replies, as the pair are lead to their room.

"I guess I should turn in, too. I want to get some practice in tomorrow. Thank you for the fine meal, Remilia," Genichiro says.

"Can you stay up a little longer, please?" Flandre asks.

"Well, I suppose, if your sister doesn't mind. We do need to get some sleep, though," Genichiro says, while looking in Remilia's direction.

"Don't stay up too late. I'm retiring for the night as well, as odd as that sounds. Such a shame to waste such a beautiful night as this one. Goodnight," Remilia replies as she makes her way for her room.

Flandre leads Genichiro to one of the living areas in the mansion. The room is fairly small in comparison to many of the other rooms of the mansion, large enough for three couches around a small table, with a fireplace in place of a fourth couch. There are smaller tables between the couches. The cushions are a deep crimson, lying on oak frames. There are a few fire lamps lit in the room, while the fireplace lies dormant.

"This is a cozy little place," Genichiro says, as he takes a seat on the couch facing the fireplace. Flandre sits next to him.

"Yeah, I usually stay in my room. I've spent so much time down there, I've grown used to it. It wasn't until right after the incident when Remi-nee released her scarlet mist did I get the chance to move about in the house," Flandre replies.

"How long were you down there beforehand?"

"About 495 years."

"That's... a long time to be locked in a room."

"Remi-nee said it was for my own protection. She would never lie to me, so I stayed and stayed. When I heard there were humans here, though, strong ones at that, I had to meet them, to see just how strong they were."

"So that's when you met Reimu and Marisa, right?"

"Yeah. I challenged them to a danmaku fight, one right after the other."

"So not at the same time?"

"No, Black-white nee came first. I think she came to borrow some books from Patchy. She looked a little startled the first time I saw her. I'm not surprised, though. Remi-nee never told anyone I was around. She said it would be bad if people knew I was there, that they might try to harm me or do something bad to me."

"That is possible. Even with your strength, if someone of the right caliber came here, they could have tried to seal you away, or something like that."

"That's what Red-white nee wanted to do at first. I had a little too much fun with Black-white nee, and Remi-nee was worried about me, so she sent Red-white nee here. She tried to seal me, but after our danmaku fight, she changed her mind."

"So Remilia tried to have Reimu seal you, or did Reimu decide that for herself."

"Remi-nee was a little upset with Red-white nee for trying to seal me, but she didn't, so it's okay. We're all friends now. I don't see Red-white nee too often, but I see Black-white nee all the time."

"Always after Patchy's books, right?"

"She comes to see me, too. She says I'm a good person to practice new spells with, since I won't get beaten by the strong magic she comes up with. I love it when she comes up with new spells! They're so much fun to play with! Except when she comes up with another Master Spark spell. Those kinda hurt when they hit."

"I don't doubt it. I'm glad I've yet to be on the receiving end of one of those. I doubt it would be a pleasant experience, and I've experienced quite a lot."

"Like what?"

"Oh, quite a bit. It's hard to think of something specific... hm... ah, I know a good one, one I remember fairly well. It was this life when I was a fighter pilot."

"A fighter pilot? What's that?"

"Well, it's a person who controls these flying machines. The machines fired bullets out, so that's why they were called fighters."

"Why didn't you just fly yourself and use your own bullets?"

"I couldn't always use magic in my past lives. There were times when I had really stubborn bodies that wouldn't let me use any magic. I never liked those lives. It would take forever just to figure out how to shoot a simple bullet, let alone use a spell card."

"Did you have someone like Red-white nee make different rules for spell cards?"

"Not really. It was just something accepted. There never was one person who tried to make a revised, unified system. It wouldn't have worked too well, anyway, since there wasn't the power of the boundary in my world. But the fun part of my story doesn't have to do with fighting."

"It doesn't?"

"Not at all. The best part was the traveling. We were on naval carriers, going from place to place."

"Naval carriers?"

"A really big boat. That's where they kept the fighters, so we could launch from anywhere. I loved traveling on the open sea, though. It was almost like flying. There were miles and miles of ocean all around. You could see all kinds of fish and what not. And the air was always cool and pleasant, and fresh, not like the air near the cities. It got all polluted when Japan started industrializing."

"Industrializing?"

"Started focusing more on machines and technology than magic. They did make some fun things and all, but machines just aren't as fun. But, I guess it had to be done. Not everyone could come up with a spell to construct a railway or house, but anyone could learn how to use a machine to do it. Huh... maybe that's why I liked the open ocean so much. There was no sign of those machines, except for the one we were on."

"So you don't like technology and stuff, like all the things that were in your house."

"I accepted things over time. After a century and a half of machines being made, I had to accept things. Some of the stuff they made was kind of fun, like the computer I had, and having a phone to call people with helped a lot. It is faster than trying to send a letter to someone. Still, though, I would give up all those conveniences to have a place where magic reigned to call home."

"Then you can stay here, in Gensokyo! I'll ask Remi-nee to let you stay here, if you want! Then we can spend as much time as we want together!"

"I do want to stay in Gensokyo. I know I could always wait for Nitori to figure out how to get the portal generators on those suits of armor to work again, but I don't want to go back. I feel like I belong here more than I ever did back there. This place has everything I had always wanted. Magic is the rule here, and there are youkai everywhere. Humans and youkai here get along in a way they never did in my world. And then there's... well, yeah, everything I wanted."

"What was the last thing? I didn't hear it.

"Um... well... the last thing... is... uh..."

"Yeah, what is it?"

"Well... someone like you, someone I like to be with."

"I like being with you, too. You're a really nice person. You saved me from that armor guy before, and you couldn't even use magic. No one other than my friends would do that for me, and I had just met you at the time. I thought you were going to run away, but you didn't."

"I couldn't do that. I could never let a cute girl you like you remain in trouble."

"You think I'm cute?" Flandre replies, while blushing.

"Well, yeah, I do."

Flandre gives Genichiro a small hug, which he returns with a smile.

"I'm glad you're here, Gen-kun."

"I'm glad you're here, Flan-chan."

The pair eventually drift off to sleep on the couch, Flandre falling asleep while gently holding on to Genichiro. A passing fairy maid places a blanket over the pair before continuing her rounds. A few others look on, thinking of how cute the pair look sleeping as they were. The pair slept peacefully through the night, dreaming of how happy they were to simply be together.

Sakuya returns to the mansion early in the morning. After resting at Eientei, she wanted to get back to the mansion as soon as possible. She notes the time upon her arrival, and resolves to make sure to have breakfast ready before everyone wakes up. She hears some of the maid staff giggling about a cute couple. Sakuya assumes they meant something they had read in the library, as some of the maids were able to read, and took to some of the romantic novels Patchouli had in her library. After Sakuya finishes preparing her meal, she prepares to wake the others. On her way through the mansion, Sakuya notices the door to the small living area is closed. She opens it to find Flandre snuggled up on top of Genichiro, the pair sound asleep. Sakuya does a double take at first, making sure of what she was seeing. At this point, she takes out one of her knives, and aims for Genichiro's head.

A loud scream is heard throughout the mansion as Sakuya starts throwing knives at Genichiro. The wolf tengu runs out of the room with a knife stuck in his tokin.

"You pervert! What were you doing to the young mistress!" Sakuya shouts.

"My hand just slipped in my sleep! Honest!" Genichiro shouts, while avoiding a few more knives. Genichiro ran up the stairs, heading for Remilia's room. He was hoping Remilia could calm Sakuya down. Genichiro avoids a few more knives before dashing into the mistress' room.

"Uh... Genichiro? Is that you... why do you have a knife sticking out of your hat?" Remilia asks, being startled by Genichiro's sudden entrance.

"Sakuya came back, she caught me sleeping with your sister," Genichiro replies.

Remilia looks stunned for a moment, processing what Genichiro had just told her. A few moments later, another loud scream is heard echoing throughout the mansion.

"You sorry excuse for a man! How dare you!" Remilia shouts, while hurling danmaku spear after danmaku spear at Genichiro.

"I didn't mean it like that!" Genichiro shouts.

Genichiro continues running, only to run into Sakuya again, nearly getting a knife lodged in his heart. The wolf tengu continues to run until he ends up in the middle of a hallway between Sakuya and Remilia.

"Girls, this is all just a misunderstanding, just let me explain!" Genichiro shouts.

Another scream travels throughout the mansion as Genichiro is assaulted by projectiles from both the head mistress and chief maid of the mansion.

"Aw, Gen-kun is having fun playing danmaku with Sakuya and Remi-nee," Flandre says, while watching the fight.

"This is not how I expected to wake up," Ran mutters, while also watching the scene unfold.

"That looks painful," Chen states.

"What did he do?" Kanna asks.

"I don't know," En replies.

"Oh, he was sleeping with me. We fell asleep together on the couch last night," Flandre says.

"And Sakuya jumped to conclusions?" Patchouli asks.

"I think his hand ended up on my thigh. It felt kinda nice, but I don't think Sakuya liked seeing that," Flandre replies.

"That explains it," Koakuma states.

"Huh, so his tokin holds a knife like my beret does," Meiling says.

"Aren't you supposed to be outside?" Patchouli asks.

"I heard screaming coming from inside, so I came in to see what was going on," Meiling replies.

"Now she does her job properly..." Patchouli mutters.

"Shouldn't we help him, or something?" Chen asks.

"No," Ran states, before walking off, with Chen following. The others follow suit.

"Sorry Gen-kun, but I promised Remi-nee I wouldn't fight anyone in the house anymore," Flandre says, while continuing to watch. The entire time, Genichiro continues screaming every time he is hit by something. After the pair of Sakuya and Remilia were done, they walk down the hall together, leaving a "well-done" Genichiro in a pile.

"Flandre! Are you okay! He didn't hurt you, did he!" Remilia asks.

"We just fell asleep on the couch. His hand ended up on my thigh, but that's it. If he did something mean or perverted, I would have made his hand go 'kyuu,'" Flandre replies.

"You mean he really didn't do anything?" Sakuya asks.

"Of course not, he's a nice guy. He wouldn't do anything like that," Flandre replies.

"Oh... uh... should I apologize to him, mistress?" Sakuya asks.

"Yes, uh, I think we both should... he's still twitching, right?" Remilia asks.

"He's a youkai, he'll be fine in an hour or two. Perhaps I should have the maids clean things up?" Sakuya asks.

"Oh, uh, yes, yes, that would be a good idea. Yes, let them take care of it. We'll apologize to him later," Remilia replies.

"That's mean," Flandre states.

"It was accident. Accidents happen," Remilia replies.

"Medic!" Genichiro shouts.

"I think you overdid it," Flandre states, while giggling a little.

"You think this is funny, don't you," Remilia asks.

"A little. I don't like seeing Gen-kun hurt, but he did make a really funny face when Sakuya hit him with that knife," Flandre replies.

"The pain!" Genichiro shouts.

"You're evil... I've taught you well," Remilia states with pride.

"Yep! Remi-nee is the best!" Flandre shouts.

"So much... pain!" Genichiro shouts.

"I'll get the staff to take care of him," Sakuya states, before disappearing. The fairy maids appear a few moments later, each carrying a combination of medical and cleaning supplies.

"Let's enjoy the breakfast Sakuya has prepared," Remilia says.

"Okay. We're going to save some for Gen-kun, right?" Flandre asks.

"Oh, sure, of course," Remilia replies.

A couple of hours later, Genichiro recovers from the assault in his room. Sakuya and Remilia knock on the door, hoping he won't be too upset.

"Come in," Genichiro states. He ducks down upon seeing Remilia and Sakuya appear.

"I didn't do it!" Genichiro shouts.

"Relax, we're here to apologize for the... misunderstanding that took place this morning," Remilia says.

"Huh? Come again?" Genichiro replies, while slowly sitting back up.

"We're sorry for assuming you were being perverted with mistress Flandre earlier," Sakuya answers.

"Oh. Well, no harm done, really. I don't really blame you, I mean, I suppose it would seem like I was doing something not that of a gentleman. I'll just try to make sure that doesn't happen again," Genichiro replies.

"It's okay, Genichiro. We just want to make sure nothing happens to Flandre, is all. After getting her back after nearly half a millennium, I'm sure you can understand why I might be a little... overprotective, but freaking out and attacking you like that was uncalled for," Remilia explains.

"Don't worry about it. I've been through much worse over time. And I did hear Flan-chan laughing, so it's okay. It did put a smile on her face. Maybe next time, we should do that in a way that doesn't involve potential dismemberment," Genichiro replies.

"I'll make a note of this," Sakuya states.

"No promises, though," Remilia says with a wink. The look on her face sends a shiver up Genichiro's spine.

"So, uh, I guess I should get my day started now," Genichiro states.

"I have breakfast waiting for you. I made sure to make you a fresh meal after earlier, so feel free to enjoy it," Sakuya replies.

"Thank you," Genichiro says as he gets up.

Genichiro enters the dining area to find a plate of freshly made eggs and breakfast cakes waiting for him, along with some tea. They are set to the seat next to the head of the table. Genichiro assumed the seat was reserved for Remilia at all times, never to be taken by anyone else, even in Remilia's absence. Genichiro enjoys the meal quietly, calling for a maid upon finishing. After the meal, a maid leads Genichiro out to the gardens, where the others are currently gathered. Both Flandre and Remilia have parasol's with them to shield them from the sun.

"Hey Gen-kun!" Flandre shouts.

"Hey, Flan-chan!" Genichiro replies.

"You heal rather quickly, don't you?" Ran asks.

"Comes with being a youkai, right?" Genichiro replies.

Ran nods while bearing a small grin.

"It sure is peaceful out here, isn't it?" Ran asks.

"I try to keep it that way," Remilia replies, "Though a certain witch often ruins that when she comes storming in."

"I try to fight her; I can't help it that she's better at danmaku. If she would just fight me with martial arts, then I would beat her every time," Meiling replies.

"Physical fighting is easier, true, but it lacks elegance. I would much rather prefer to fight with danmaku. A physical fight every now and then is good for exercise, though," Ran states.

"So you can fight like that?" Meiling asks.

"Of course; Lady Yukari has made sure that I'm capable of defending myself in multiple ways, whether it be with danmaku, martial arts, or sword play. It's especially helpful on our trips to the Outside World, where we are forbidden from using magic by Lady Yukari," Ran explains.

"What would happen if you did use danmaku while outside?" Flandre asks.

"We can't, Lady Yukari binds our abilities before taking us, along with our forms. I'm still stronger than any normal human, though. The few times I've been attacked while outside, I won without problem," Ran replies.

"People attack you on the outside?" Flandre asks.

"There are some places where the weak should not tread at all in the Outside. I don't suppose you've been attacked by those wielding guns, have you?" Genichiro asks out of curiosity.

"Oh, yes, we have. Such pointless things, really. Sure, they work on other humans, but on youkai, like us, the projectiles harmlessly bounce off. It would hurt if they hit us in the eye, or somewhere like that, but even then, those little toys are hardly need for concern," Ran answers.

"What's a gun?" Flandre asks.

"They're little machine things that shout out metal bullets. They're not danmaku, though, like Lady Ran says, so they don't hurt at all," Chen explains.

"I always found them to be rather distasteful, though I was forced into situations where I had to use them," Genichiro replies.

"I have, as well as Lady Yukari, but never to kill, only to disable. And we would disappear soon after, during such situations. They are fairly rare, though. We try to stay away from places with a high crime rate," Ran says.

"That's for the best. I guess Lady Yukari wouldn't take you guys outside if it was really dangerous," Genichiro replies.

"Dangerous? It's so much fun!" Chen shouts.

"I want to go to the outside world sometime," Flandre states.

"You would have to take that up with Lady Yukari. She never takes anyone outside, other than us. She may make an exception for someone like Genichiro, but still, that's all dependent upon her whims, which could change at any time," Ran replies.

"Aww," Flandre says.

"Don't worry, I could try to get some things from Kourindou, if you want. I know how to use most of the things there. Really, though, most of the stuff from the outside really isn't all that impressive in comparison to magic," Genichiro states.

"I agree with him, we only go for supplies we can't get here, such as clothes and fuel for the few outside machines we employ, as well are repair and maintenance on said machines. Even then, most of our machines are electronic and solar powered. I trust you know what that means, Genichiro?" Ran asks.

"I do. Makes sense, there's plenty of sun around here, and it would be a shame to pollute this land with expended fuels," Genichiro replies.

"Lady Yukari would agree with you, hence her decision," Ran says.

"What's solar powered mean?" Flandre asks.

"It means Lady Yukari has these machines that use the light from the sun to make electrical power," Genichiro replies.

"What's electrical mean?" Flandre asks.

"I'd like to know that one, myself," Remilia states.

"Like lightning, except not as powerful. Just enough to make simple machines work. That's the best way for me to put it," Ran answers.

"I see. Well, that doesn't really sound all that interesting. As unique as the devices in Genichiro's world looked, they are hardly impressive," Remilia replies.

"I see you're not impressed with it," Ran states.

"That store he took us to was convenient, I'll give it that, but really, the Outside World bores me. I don't like the idea of not being able to use my magic, and I hate having to hide my form. I take pride in what I am, I don't want to hide it," Remilia replies.

"Truthfully, magic can do so much more; it's why I always worked so hard to become a full youkai as soon as possible in each of my past lives," Genichiro says.

"I suppose it is ironic that the only technology that exists and is capable of reproducing magic is that which was built here," Ran states.

"Wait, there are people here who have built machines capable of mimicking our magic?" Remilia asks.

"A few. The human scientist Asakura Rikako, the tank builder, Rika, and many of the Kappa. Still, they have magic as a base. Those in the outside have lost sight of magic," Ran explains.

"I see. It would seem Jin figured it out, too, somehow. I suppose the rules for my world are a little different, since there is no Gensokyo there," Genichiro replies.

"Hm, I wonder... well, it's possible the Lunarian civilization may still exist in your world," Ran states.

"Lunarians?" Genichiro asks.

"Oh, I remember that. I did like the sea they had up there," Remilia states.

"You do know who they are, don't you?" Ran asks.

"Oh, yes, I do, I was just thinking if they existed in my world or not. Well, there's not way to know, now, anyway, but maybe. Why did you bring them up?" Genichiro asks.

"Maybe Jin found his way there, and made use of their technology in his. It would give him the proper basis, as well as explain why his machines are as advanced as they are," Ran replies.

"Not to be negative, but wouldn't we have a problem if they were using Lunarian technology?" Sakuya asks.

"We would, but it doesn't seem like there's are that far advanced. At best, inferior copies, but hardly as powerful as the originals. If they had such power, they would not need numbers to win. That's the kind of battle we're looking at," Ran explains.

"I suppose that's comforting in a way. If I get a chance to get back home, I might look up Lunarian society there," Genichiro says.

"We might be able to help you with that; after this is over, we'll consider helping you in that endeavor. For now, though, perhaps we should focus on something more important," Ran replies.

"Like what?" Remilia asks.

"Like a little practice. Perhaps we should hold a couple of duels to make sure everyone is well prepared for tomorrow's battle? Nothing major, just a three card duel," Ran states.

"Yay! Danmaku! So, who against who?" Flandre asks.

"How about two teams of three?" Sakuya asks, "Mistress Remilia, mistress Flandre, and Genichiro against Lady Ran, Chen, and En? One spell per person in three one on one matches, best of three fights wins?"

"This works for me. Very well. We'll duel with danmaku spell rules, no melee. Is everyone in agreement?" Ran asks.

"Works for me," Genichiro says.

"I don't mind, why not?" Remilia replies.

"Yay, I get to be with Gen-kun!" Flandre shouts.

"I get to be with Lady Ran!" Chen shouts.

"I have the two powerful shikigami of Lady Yukari on my side; I won't lose!" En shouts.

"I hope you'll put on a wonderful show for us all in the skies above the gardens. Mistress, shall I prepare some tea for after the duel?" Sakuya asks.

"Yes, and bring some knives. I want you, China, and Patchy joining in on this, too. You all could use a little practice," Remilia replies.

"It shall be done, mistress," Sakuya replies, before disappearing after using her time shift.

"Well, now that we have this set, how shall we do this?" Remilia asks.

"From what I know of you, you wish to face me in the last match, yes?" Ran asks.

"Of course! Save the best match up for last, right?" Remilia replies.

"I'll face off with Flan," En states.

"Guess that leaves me with you, little one, so who goes first?" Genichiro.

"You two do, wolf-boy. Make it a good showing!" Remilia replies, while bearing a mischievous grin.

"Yay! I get to go first!" Chen shouts.

"Well, this should be interesting. The wolf and the cat go to fight with danmaku... needs a punchline, though. Guess I'll have to work on that part," Genichiro says in his head as he takes to the skies with Chen.

"First one to have their spell broken loses. Ready? Begin!" Ran shouts.

"I won't disappoint you, Lady Ran!" Chen shouts.

"I'll show you how we do things where I come from!" Genichiro shouts.

The pair of Genichiro and Chen pull out a spell card, ready to announce their spell.

"Oni Sign: 'Blue Oni Red Oni!'" Chen shouts.

"Wolf Sign 'Hidden Wolf!'" Genichiro shouts.

Chen takes a position directly ahead of Genichiro. To her right side, a human-sized red danmaku sphere goes straight ahead in the direction of Genichiro, while a human-sized blue danmaku sphere does the same on her left. In the wake of each pair of danmaku, smaller danmaku of varying sizes appear, making the colors of the danmaku spheres they came from. After drifting off a little from their path, the smaller danmaku aim themselves at Genichiro, while Chen fires off another pair of human-sized danmaku.

Genichiro starts himself off in front of Chen, firing out a field of hand-sized white danmaku. The field takes a radial form around Genichiro, and starts to spin about him clockwise. Genichiro then pulls out his sword, and swings it, sending out a burst of blue fang danmaku, aimed straight at Chen. Genichiro then disappears, then reappears nearby, shifting the origin of the white danmaku field, and reversing it's rotation. Genichiro swings his blade to form another burst of aimed blue fang danmaku before repeating the pattern.

Chen is forced to move as soon as Genichiro fires off his first burst of fang danmaku, resulting in her bursts changing position with her, but keeping the same pattern. Genichiro notes the aimed bursts being left behind in Chen's attack, and keeps himself moving to avoid taking any hits, while making sure to get off plenty of his own. Genichiro keeps himself mindful of where he should make himself appear, knowing he would be in trouble if he made himself appear in the wrong place. Genichiro is forced to graze through a wave of Chen's danmaku after making a slight error in where he appears. Losing track of a previous aimed burst from Chen. Chen is distracted by the near hit, running into one of Genichiro's small danmaku bullets. She narrowly avoids the burst of fang danmaku that follow. Genichiro notes Chen reaction as he chooses riskier places to appear, hoping to fake Chen out be making her believe he will be hit. Genichiro appears in the middle of a blue burst, just as it's about to aim at him. As planned, Chen is distracted by the chance, allowing Genichiro to get his shot off and change position, barely managing to avoid taking a direct hit. Chen is hit by a group of fang danmaku as a result. Genichiro appears again, this time right in front of Chen. The cat shikigami fires her large danmaku straight at Genichiro, forcing him to fire off his barrage quickly. The aimed barrage nearly misses Chen, who runs right up to where Genichiro next appears. The lucky shot Genichiro gets is taken, and Chen doesn't have enough room to avoid the next aimed burst, taking another round of hits, resulting in her spell being broken.

"Looks like I win this one. Not bad, though, Chen. I actually worked up a sweat on that one. Almost had me there a couple of times," Genichiro says.

"That was fun! We'll have to do it again sometime," Chen replies.

"Genichiro wins the first round. Next up is En and Flandre," Ran says.

"Ho, ho, one for our team. I doubt a fairy could beat Flan. Looks like we might not get to fight at all," Remilia says.

"Oh we'll fight. Even if there is no meaning for the match, practice is practice, and I'm not one to just observe, unless I'm ordered to, of course," Ran states.

Remilia allows herself a grin as her sister takes to the skies with the greater fairy of fire.

"Okay, Flan, let's have some fun, okay? Don't hold back just because I'm a fairy!" En shouts.

"Sure, sure! I have a fun spell in mind!" Flandre shouts.

The pair smile at each other before pulling out their spell cards.

"Forbidden Barrage 'Counter Clock!'" Flandre shouts.

"Blaze Sign 'Fire Typhoon!'" En shouts.

Flandre fires out a radial field of red sphere danmaku. Two magic circles also appear before Flandre. The pair of magic circles come to life, projecting six laser blades, two for each axis. The pair spin on all three axes while moving towards one another, while Flandre continues to shoot out her danmaku field. After the pair of magic circles reach their destination, they deactivate, but remain in place, only to come to life again a few moments later, spinning again, but moving away from each other, then deactivating again, before repeating the cycle.

En fires out a random barrage of large fireball danmaku. Two magic circles appear by En, one on each side. Each magic circle fires out a wispy, flaming snake-like bullet. The two forms curve through the field of fireball danmaku, before bursting into a wave of small fireball danmaku. After the first pair of wispy snakes disappear, another pair is sent out, coming a little faster than the first, and repeating the same motions as the previous before bursting into small fireball danmaku. The cycle continues, each new snake moving faster than the one before it, while En continues to fire out the barrage of fireball danmaku at a steady pace.

Flandre is the first one forced to move out of the way of the incoming fireballs. Her field of danmaku moves with her, while the magic circles hold in place. The shift in Flandre's field forces En to move about, while carefully avoiding the blades from the pair of magic circles, which stay a set distance away from En, moving along with her. En narrowly misses a blade, but runs into one of the red danmaku Flandre is firing out. En shrugs it off and continues her assault, her magic circles staying with her, and sending out more fire danmaku snakes. Flandre is forces to graze one of the snakes but forgets about how they burst for a moment, getting her reminder in the form of several hits. Flandre moves to avoid the next pair, but runs into a pair of fire balls from En. Flandre's quick movement shifts her field quickly, leaving a narrow gap for En, which led right into the one of the blades coming from Flandre's circles. En continues her spell, with the snakes constantly firing off. Flandre slips up while avoiding a fireball, and is hit by one of the snakes, breaking her spell.

"I don't believe it!" Remilia shouts.

"That's one tough little fairy," Genichiro says.

"Yay En!" Kanna shouts.

Among those present, Ran is the only one not surprised by the outcome. Ran knows danmaku is about experience as much as it's about power, and could tell En was much more experienced than Flandre, who had spent the majority of her life locked away.

"You knew, somehow, didn't you?" Remilia says, while pointing a finger at Ran.

"I had an idea; I can't see the future, but I can predict the results," Ran replies.

"All the better, than. This just means there's more reason for us to fight, for the honor of house Scarlet!" Remilia shouts.

"Perhaps. Well then, shall we begin?" Ran asks.

Flandre and En drop from the sky, the pair sharing a hug after the match, while smiling together.

"That was fun! Too bad we were only using one card each," Flandre says.

"Yeah, I have quite a few I would have liked to try out. Those blades were scary, though. Almost got the run through," En replies.

"But you were really good, you didn't get hurt,' Flandre states.

"En has been fighting like this for years. She's done all kinds of things I didn't think a fairy could do," Kanna replies.

"She did a few just now, I would say. Nice work, En," Genichiro says.

En just smiles in response. Everyone then looks to the skies to see Ran and Remilia prepare for their fight.

"Okay, fox, no holding back, okay? Strongest card you got, okay?" Remilia asks.

"If you wish. I may not be as powerful when not near Yukari, but I can hold my own just as well. Ready?" Ran asks.

Remilia pulls out her card, prompting Ran to do the same.

"'Scarlet Gensokyo!'" Remilia shouts.

"Illusion God 'Descent of Izuna Gongen!'" Ran shouts.

Remilia fires out a quick burst of human-sized blue danmaku spheres in radial pattern, each following a curved arc. Each blue sphere leaves a trail of smaller, blood red danmaku behind in their wake. Remilia fires another burst of the blue danmaku, the new burst following a radial path opposite the direction of the previous burst. At the same time as the new burst appears, the danmaku left behind from the previous burst spin along the path of the burst the created them, but at a slower pace. Remilia continues firing off bursts of the blue danmaku leaving the red danmaku behind, each burst coming faster than the burst before it.

Ran fires off a radial burst of small blue danmaku. She adds a radial burst of blue butterfly danmaku, before adding in a radial burst of blue fang danmaku, each spinning along with the pattern of the first burst. Ran then adds a burst of human-sized red danmaku spheres, spinning along with the rest of her barrage, but emerging opposite of her initial burst. Ran finally completes her full barrage with large green and yellow danmaku spheres, spinning along with the rest of the barrage, but coming from Ran at different points, leaving Ran firing danmaku in four different directions are once, while spinning around her.

Ran is forced to move first, avoiding a blue danmaku sphere heading in her direction. Ran takes note of the red danmaku around her, making sure not to run into them. Ran grazes through several of the smaller red spheres, making sure not to take a direct hit, while at the same time maintaining her own barrage. As Ran moves, her danmaku shift with her, forcing Remilia to move more. Remilia is doesn't escape a burst closing in on her, missing the gap that closed before her, resulting in her being the first to take a hit. This only prompted Remilia to increase the intensity of her own bursts, nearly catching Ran off guard, who had been calculating the speed of increase in Remilia's shots. Ran takes a hit from a pair of small red danmaku, forcing her to adjust her calculations as she continues her pattern. Remilia gets too confident in herself after hitting Ran, missing the group of large, red danmaku spheres heading for her. Remilia tries to graze through them, but doesn't make it, taking a hit, and having her spell broken.

"I don't believe it!" Remilia shouts.

"It would seem I have won this round; my team is the winner of this match," Ran states.

"Yay! We won, Lady Ran!" Chen shouts.

"Meh, she probably cheated," Remilia states.

"You can't cheat at danmaku, you know," Genichiro states.

Remilia lets out a growl in response, causing Genichiro to back up from the vampire girl.

"It's okay, Remi-nee. We'll beat them the next time, okay?" Flandre replies.

"Yeah, they just got lucky, right?" Genichiro says.

"That's right! They just got lucky, is all. We'll win for sure next time!" Remilia declares.

"Anything is possible. There are flukes in danmaku, as there are every where else," Ran replies.

"You trying to say I could only win on a fluke?" Remilia asks.

"I didn't say that. More like we won a fluke, I suppose," Ran replies.

"That's right!" Remilia shouts.

"I guess this is her childish side coming out. Perhaps mind and body really aren't so separate," Genichiro thinks to himself.

"I didn't know how Genichiro would handle Chen. I was certain En would defeat Flandre, though. I was also reasonably sure I could take care of Remilia, as along as I was careful not to make a mistake. Still, these assumptions are based around this type of match up. It may have been different if each match was done best of three," Ran thinks to herself.

"A splendid match, mistress," Sakuya states, as she walks into the garden, a tea set in hand.

"Ah, perfect timing, Sakuya. Nice of you to join us, Patchy," Remilia says.

"I was looking into more powerful spells. As much as I don't like the idea, the witch's fighting style is more suited to war than mine," Patchouli replies.

"That's true, but don't forget the strategy," Genichiro states.

"In war, you need a good strategy with enough power to back it up to win. We have both taken care of, fortunately. I'm sure just about everyone in Gensokyo will join in," Ran replies.

"Yes, I know for sure Eientei, Keine, and Byakuren will help. I can't speak for any others. The only place I group I don't expect help from is the Lunar Capital," Sakuya states.

"Yukari won't be asking them for any favors soon, and I doubt the staff of Eientei would want to risk being found. Still, we have more than enough help here. Bringing in the Lunarians would be 'overkill," Ran replies.

"Bah, I don't want to see them again, anyway. Now then, Sakuya, go grab China, and prepare for a few more practice duels. There's still plenty of time left before dinner, right?" Remilia asks.

"Of course, mistress," Sakuya says, while pouring tea for Remilia and Patchouli. Sakuya disappears to get Meiling, while some of the fairy staff wait on the other guests in her stead. Sakuya quickly returns with Meiling in tow, leaving a contingent of fairies in charge of guarding the front gate. After their tea, the rest of the afternoon is spent on danmaku duels, with Ran, En, and Genichiro taking on Patchouli, Sakuya, and Meiling. Ran beats out Patchouli in danmaku, while Sakuya defeats En. Genichiro and Meiling enjoy a melee fight, ending in a double knock-out, leaving the team match undecided. After a few more duels, the sun draws a close for the day, with Remilia leading everyone inside for an extravagant dinner prepared by Sakuya. Remilia asked Sakuya to go all out, preparing Roast Leg of Lamb with mint jelly, beef stew, and corn, along with freshly baked biscuits and a homemade cheese cake with tea and coffee for dessert.

"Ah, Sakuya cooks so much better than the fairies," Genichiro says, while rubbing his stomach.

"This was a fine meal, Remilia. It's always a pleasure to be able to dine here as a guest in your mansion," Ran says.

"Only the best for my guests. Perhaps you should bring your mistress next time," Remilia states.

"Perhaps. Lady Yukari is a rather whimsical person, after all," Ran replies.

"I'm so full, but I'm happy, too," Chen says, while bearing a cat-like grin.

"Well then, perhaps now would be a good time to end the night. We all should make sure to be rested for tomorrow, right?" Remilia asks.

"Indeed. I was planning on sleeping right after I finished this spell I've been working on," Patchouli says.

"You should sleep right away. You know how you start to get into your spells, and lose track of time. Consider this an order," Remilia states.

"Very well, Remi, if you insist," Patchouli replies.

"I will leave the rest of the cleanup to the staff. I believe you were about to make the same request of me, mistress?" Sakuya asks.

"Of course, Sakuya. You need rest most of all. Goodnight, everyone," Remilia states.

Everyone bids each other goodnight as they leave the dining area for their rooms, Genichiro making sure to make it to his room this night, rather than having a repeat of that morning when he awoke. Flandre did give the wolf tengu a hug before heading for her own room. En was the only one left in the dining room with Remilia, choosing to remain behind.

"Is there something I can help you with, En?" Remilia asks.

"There is, actually. I would like to become a member of your staff," En replies.

"Oh? What could you do for me, I wonder. I have plenty enough fairies here as is, and it would take several of them to match the output of a single human," Remilia replies.

"I'm not like the others, Lady Remilia. After two hundred years, I've learned a few more things that most fairies never live to realize. I'm willing to help protect the mansion, as well as cook and clean. I'm sure you would appreciate the help, Miss Sakuya," En states.

"You do seem much more competent than the typical fairy. You did put up a good fight against the younger mistress earlier," Sakuya replies.

"Yes, you certainly are no ordinary fairy. Why are you so interested in working here, though?" Remilia asks.

"To have a home. I would be much better able to keep Kanna safe in a place like this. Keeping her safe in the forest isn't always an easy task, especially with the current incident. She's my most important friend in the world; I don't want anything to ever happen to her. It's been one of my purposes in life. I would like to have serving this mansion be another, to give me some direction, a reason for being. I'm sure someone who's been around as long as you can understand this," En explains.

"Indeed I do. It is dreadfully boring at times. Sometimes I have to set things in motion myself to keep myself entertained. There was even the time when I helped with the fake moon incident. Alright, very well, if you make it through this incident, I'll allow you and your friend to join my staff," Remilia replies.

"Thank you, Mistress Remilia," En replies.

"Ho ho, calling me mistress so soon? I like that, I like that a lot. She'll make a fine addition to the staff, don't you agree, Sakuya?" Remilia asks.

"She will. I'm sure your friend would do well at tending to the gardens, right? You can help me with maintaining the house, and she may join the garden staff. Does this sound reasonable to you?" Sakuya asks.

"I'm just happy for this opportunity, Miss Sakuya. I thank you both. I believe I should be heading to my room now; I intend to join you tomorrow. I'm sure I've demonstrated my worth in battle today?" En asks.

"Indeed you have. Goodnight, En," Remilia replies.

In the final night before the coming war, all those joining the fight enter into the realm of sleep. Some are full of worry, while others are full of confidence.

"This war... it will change the face of this land," Yukari states, while looking over Gensokyo. She wanted one last look at the place she called home, before the fighting started.

"I helped to make this place a paradise, free of the troubles of the Outside World. I suppose it's inevitable that something like this would take place. Throughout history, all lands of peace are eventually plunged into war. I only hope we will emerge as the same place we are now," Yukari says out loud, before disappearing into a gap, leading to her own bed. She knew, too, that she needed to rest herself up, as much as she didn't like the idea of sleeping away a perfectly good night.

In another part of Gensokyo, Jin was looking over his hanger, now loaded with weapons of war. He smiled upon the completion of his inspection.

"I take it this suits you?" comes the voice of Tiara.

"Oh yes, of course. This will make for a fine showing tomorrow. More than enough to show everyone that I mean business," Jin replies.

"I still don't see the point in this. You may have all these weapons, but they are no match for a master of the magical arts."

"You seem so sure of this."

"I created these vehicles, and I am, myself, a master of the magical arts. I can tell you right now that these 'toys' are worthless to you for what you wish to accomplish."

"I don't expect to win with these, nor do I plan to. At least not with these alone. What I have in the other hanger will decide the outcome of this match. That's what will win this battle."

"You think that oversized pile of metal will help you?"

"You've seen it, have you not? Can you think of a way to easily destroy it?"

"Just because I have not does not mean others will not. I will admit that is it powerful, but I'm sure someone of Yukari's level would be able to destroy it."

"Oh? I doubt that. Even her abilities to play with boundaries has it's limits, and I know what they are. Yukari could try to use her abilities, but they will fail. I made sure of that."

"If you insist. Once again, I will not stop you. This does have some potential, after all. If you do somehow manage to win tomorrow, I will not utter a single complaint about your technology again."

"I look forward to that."

Jin and Tiara part ways, with Tiara heading to rest in her shrine room after constructing Jin's army, while Jin readies himself for sleep.

"It doesn't matter if I win or lose, that's not my goal. No, my goal for tomorrow is a little smaller, and yet so much greater. And once I succeed, nothing will stand before me. I won't even need the help of that Tiara either!" Jin thinks to himself as he makes his way down the hall.