"Hmm..."
"Lucifer-sama, are you sure if was wise to leave that human alone with that corpse?" Beelze said, not understanding my actions. "You could just ordered me to leave a sentry fly and..."
"Beelze. He'll come on his own. Besides, he might find useful info for his survival down there."
"But...!"
I looked back at him. This was enough to stop him from continuing the debate.
"I apologize. It was rude from me."
"Indeed." I answered calmly. "Do try to control that."
Both of us were currently hovering over Gensokyo, spectating the ensuing battle of the former shrine maiden, his magician friend and the boundary youkai, Yukari Yakumo.
We couldn't hear their conversations, but judging by the looks of the magician, she was still denying the fact that the maiden is the current enemy she was facing. It seems she is still trying to convince her to stop. The maiden answers back in roars and attacks, defacing the ground as she rampages.
*sigh* It seems this version causes a berserk-state in the host when first ingested. Not unlikely the previous version. Yes, that one is still powerful by my standards, but it has its limits. This one, however...it could go to limits beyond my understanding. It is just matter of time and growth.
(BOOM!)
"Kyaa!"
...Yes. Just a matter of time.
"Seems those two aren't capable of hitting her." Beelze commented, after a wave of Freikugels devastated part of the forest, raising trees that spread towards the duo. "Her power is astounding."
"Indeed." I said, satisfied by her performance, even if she's acting out of control. "How are the rest?"
Beelze nodded as he brought out the Eye.
...Hm? What's the Eye? And why do you feel like I'm still talking to you?
Yes. Even if the connection between us is dying due to that being's demise, I can still see you all.
Funny, isn't it?
"Lucifer-sama?" Beelze asked. Ah, it seems he's unaware of our situation.
"It's nothing." I calmly said.
Alright, here's the thing.
Beelze's Eye is basically a crystalline, transparent compound eye of the size of a human head. Each lens had a different image, courtesy of several of the millions of sentry flies that Beelze has at it disposal, across any world inside the Akarana Corridor. This is one of the factors which grants me with large amounts of information of many of the worlds out there. The other factor consists in just asking around.
What? It really is that simple.
*sigh* It's just because most of humanity still refuses to expand their own horizons and reach greatness. It is laziness? Fear? Perhaps pity?
No matter. This isn't time for that, is it?
"Well, the vampire kid and ensemble apparently know the details and circumstances of their situation by now. Their reactions are as expected, judging from them just starting to the wall and Thor trying to strangle him. It seems he was shocked by the fact that he served an avatar which connection was warped from reality in order to be...well, reality. He really didn't take it well."
Expected. He has quite a lot of pride about his loyalties.
"However, it seems he's staying to help since, after the fake Ragnarok, Odin has been quite...tame in his behavior, so at least he felt thankful for that. Loki just laughed, implying that he just is doing what he thinks it's right and tells him to be honest. He then slammed him to the wall."
*sigh* Loki will never change...
"And? The surrounding areas?"
The Eye showed now an overview of Gensokyo, specifically the edges of it.
"Due to the pawn's death, the gates they were using dissipated, granting only a few of them access, and well, since the transfer was interrupted, their shape is not corporeal."
"Good. They shouldn't be able to move or create a plan without their full power or a leader." I said, with a bit of glee, if I may add, my dear watcher.
Hmm. So far, the situation is manageable. The complicated part now is the maiden.
...
...Oh?
Well well, Hanta is back. And, by his looks, it seems he found something out and doesn't like one bit of it.
Interesting. Hm, I suppose I could refrain myself from asking and let him surprise me.
"Hanta, are you ready?"
"..."
"Huh. That was interesting."
"..." He doesn't seem pained at all. In fact, his face shows...pity?
Hm.
Ah.
I think I know what he knows. Well, if he succeeds in subduing her, if he agrees, then he has a chance to ease her thoughts about herself. After all, it's better to know the truth about oneself than just accepting that someone's a nobody.
"So...are you?"
"...Tell me what I have to do."
To be fair, I have already noticed that the battle moved far away from here, now above a garden filled with sunflowers. It seems that the effects of ACIS can even topple the being living here...Hmm, I wonder how Yukari Yakumo bypassed this...and it seems she passed or used that method in the black magician...
But if she could, then why not help the green-haired youkai? Hmm, maybe the methods takes more energy than it should.
...Hm? Now that I look at it, there are some sort of gaps inside their ears. So that's how. Hm, keeping those open constantly while in motion must be affecting her performance in battle just a bit. A smart move not to help her, considering that would hamper her survival chances...
Beelze, Hanta and I were closely following them. Even on foot, we can have a very good view of the fight, thanks to the sentry flies.
"Since you have decided to face her on your own, this will give us time to gather enough magnetite from the pawns that were ignored by Him." I explained, as Hanta just listened. He remained awfully quiet after emerging. Odd in many ways. "However, we must make sure that the maiden and you remain engaged in battle, since we can't afford her to ruin everything."
"How much time will you need?" He asked.
"...I am not so sure. It could vary from just ten minutes to about half an hour."
Hanta grumbled silently.
"Don't even dare of bemoan his name!" Beelze snarled at him, assuming he cursed at me. In fact, he only cursed the facts.
"...Whatever. Let's just go to them."
"Yes. But before that..."
I pulled out a round, red colored stone. Hanta instantly asked a question.
"Another rock? After what happened to Flandre, I...!"
"This is not like that one, Hanta." I explained, trying to dissuade his doubts. "This one has different properties."
"Like what exactly?" He was still doubtful.
"To begin with, this stone will create a 200-feet spherical barrier as soon as it touches the ground, so be careful with that. My plan consists that you lure the maiden to a battlefield of your choosing and then lock yourself up with her in order to give us time to collect enough magnetite for the ritual."
"I see. But then, how do I turn it off?"
"It turns off automatically. As soon as one of you loses conciousness, the barrier itself will vanish. However, you must ensure that it is the maiden that faints, not you. If not, well...you could see were this is going too."
Hanta sighed as he kept the stone in Sekai Rei. I noticed this and suggested something to him.
"Word of advice, don't use Sekai Rei to keep that."
"Why?"
"Sekai Rei was connected more to the Magatama and not yourself entirely." I explained, actually making him worry. "I'm not quite sure how much longer with it last, so do keep that stone with you, alright?"
"What about my gear?"
"...It will be forcefully pushed out of Sekai Rei as it vanishes."
Hanta then started to calculate something. Maybe he correcting his plan now with this new info.
"Great, the more time it passes and we lose stuff that makes us a bit decent." Lemat didn't like the news. The fact of both them getting weaker frustrates him to no end.
"I get the plan." Hanta said, finishing his own brainstorming. "Let's hurry then."
He hastened his run, seemingly worried of his chances now. Hmm...
"Hanta."
"What!?" He snapped back, angrily.
I threw at him another red stone.
"This one has different properties. As long as you hold it, your endurance will be greater, but for about half an hour, since it depends on how much magnetite you have, considering you still have the magnetite I gave you as a reward. Hope this will serve as comfort, considering you are taking a very risky path..."
Hanta looked at him suspiciously once more, but then sighed in resign as he kept it in his pockets. As soon as he did that, he felt his body once more. It seems the effects were instantaneous.
"Neat." Lemat said as he noticed the thin red layer over Hanta's skin. From afar, it can't be seen. Only when you get close enough one can notice a slight red hue over one's skin.
"I suppose I should be thankful." Hanta sighed as he ran once more towards the battlefield. "Hey, shouldn't you hurry or what?"
Beelze was about to react angrily, but I stopped him. Indeed, we have taken quite a lot of time, haven't we?
"Why yes." I smiled.
(BOOM!)
(BOOM!)
From a distance, all of us could see a beautiful spectacle. I have to admit, those two can keep up well with the maiden. Yukari Yakumo, I expected as much. The black magician, however, demonstrates that she has quite the potential...
"Kyaaa!"
(THUD!)
...For a human, that is.
Yukari Yakumo shot barrage after barrage of needles, but the maiden without all of them as if the damage was non-existant. She snarled as she tried to slash Yukari open with her sharp red nails. She entered into one of her gaps to dodge and attempted to attack from behind. While the attack did it, it only made her angrier. The maiden then started charging Freikugel with her mouth, which meant a bigger concentration of energy.
You better dodge that.
"Tsk..." Yukari Yakumo foolishly erected a quadruple-layered barrier.
The shot was released, soaring through the air at absurdly high speed, until it crashed into the barrier. To the surprise of most of the ones present, the barrier started to crack, first the outmost layer, then the second one. She poured more energy in order to keep the third one from breaking, but the maiden decided to punch through the barrier with the extendable arm, striking her head. She didn't end there. She then proceeded to grab her by her head and was about to slam her to the ground when...
(THUD!)
"...?"
A small stone hit the maiden in the back. Then two more. Below her, Hanta was trying to get her attention.
"Sure, we all hate that sack of flesh and bones that is the hag, but I think you have much more hate towards me than her, right?"
The maiden stopped, but did not let Yukari Yakumo free. She was still holding her by her throat.
"Ngh...ugh..."
"Beelze. You know what to do."
"...Understood."
To the shock of the magician, Beelze turned into a cloud of black flies and headed towards the pair.
"Come on! Look at me!" Hanta started jumping on his place as he continued throwing stones at the maiden.
This did catch her attention, making her hold loose. That's when the cloud of flies surrounded Yukari Yakumo completely, hiding her from sight. Then, before the maiden could do something else, the flies scattered.
"...! Yukari!"
Hanta noticed this and resumed his role.
"Hey, if you want to beat the crap out of me, then follow me!" Hanta shouted, as he started running towards...
...Huh, the shrine, eh? Are you still trying to snap her back without an excessive use of violence? You could snap back because your mind is different, but in the maiden's case, her whole identidy was revealed to be fake and the Magatama isn't helping matters either. You have to knock her out of else...but then again, I admire your determination.
The maiden started chasing after him, running in all fours as the tattoos started to shine. She took the treetop path while Hanta tried to run as fast through the man-made path.
"...! Hanta! Where the hell are you going?!" The magician called out for him, but both of them were already too far away.
The flies joined once more in front of us. From it, Yukari Yakumo dropped towards the ground...or was about to, since she recovered in mid-air.
"What? What was that?" Yukari Yakumo looked confused. She checked if all of her limbs where intact. Unneccessary, since Beelze knows better.
"You are fine. Don't waste time on that."
The magician shock her head, trying to recover. Then, she shifted attention towards me.
"Hey, you, what happened to Reimu?! Why is Hanta helping you? Tell me!"
"There will be time for that?" He yelled. "Listen, there's..."
"What's going on?" Yukari Yakumo showed up. As she looked at me, she figured out that something was up. "You! What have you done?!"
Now, if only she could stop blaming me for everything. Then again, considering my reputation and her knowledge, it can't be helped...
"Watch your tongue, youkai."
"Beelze. Manners, please."
"What did you order him to do?" Yukari asked, tried to regain her focus.
"He's fulfilling his current role. Now, if you would just listen..."
"Listen to you?! I don't even know you! What is going on here?!" The magician stated.
She's completely hysteric. What a contrast, taking into account her carefree persona.
"What's with this girl?" Beelze said, getting frustrated.
There was a tremor, as a Freikugel soared through the air towards us. I caught it before it could damage any of us, yet I have to admit that even I have problems keeping control of it.
"*sigh* Stray shots. Not to worry." I said as I crushed the Freikugel in my hand, collecting as much magnetite as I could from it, much to the shock of Yukari, who had trouble before with such attack. "Now, it could calm down and listen to me."
A demonstration of power has always been a way to quell a discussion or turmoil in the masses. This was no exception.
"H-How did you...?"
"Now that I got your attention, we need to talk." I said. "But first, let go to a better place, shall we?"
I snapped my fingers.
The Crimson Room was as I left it. Hmm, the candlelight really does make it look ominous. I better get some lighting here...
"What? Where is this place?"
"Please, make yourselves comfortable." I invited them to sit and rest. "I have...some other business to attend to. Beelze, if you would be so kind to make our guests feel comfortable and attend any inquiry."
"...Understood."
"Hey, I'm not done with you!" Yukari tried to stop me.
"Of course not. We are not done, Yukari Yakumo. I have a task for you. It is imperative that you do it almost perfectly." I said, as I sat down. Yukari Yakumo followed suit while the magician still looked confused.
"Does it have to do with Gensokyo's safety?"
"It has everything to do with Gensokyo's safety." I assured her, while asking Beelze to get some wine. "Let me explain."
I explained what has happened to her. Judging by their reactions, they understood how dire things got."
"This can't be...!"
"H-Hey, so the barrier is useless?! What the hell is going on?!"
"If you would let me continue." I said. "You see, my plan is to replace the barrier."
"Since Reimu is...well, not the shrine maiden anymore, the Hakurei Border is bound to collapse."
"She never was. She is a fake, born from the concept of inconsistency of her hair and personality between some games. The original one is actually dead, you know?"
Yukari frowned at me. Apparently, she knew as much, but she didn't want to touch the subject. And the magician...
"What? Reimu's fake? What are you talking about?"
Oh. I forgot about her as a factor.
Well, I can't afford the time to explain that to the magician right now.
Ngh...this is...awkward.
Wait...
"Beelze?"
"Yes?"
"Sleeper procedure."
"Sleeper procedure?"
"Sleeper procedure."
In a motion, Beelze reached for the magician's neck and pressed one point on its back. The magician fell unconscious to the ground...
"...That...that was unexpected." Yukari said.
"Now's not the time for interruptions, isn't it?" I said, as I asked Beelze to move the magician's body to the chair once more. She was sleeping soundly. "If it bothered you, then I apologize, but it was the truth nonetheless. Now, back on track..." I said, pouring red wine for both of us. It'll calm her nerves a bit. I need her in top mental condition, after all.
"Right. So you are trying to replace the barrier? How exactly?"
"Simple. We ask for help." I said. "Have you heard of the one called Masakado?"
"I can barely remember that name. Wasn't he a samurai that rebelled against the government of that era?"
"Precisely."
"...Lucifer, we need a replacement for the Hakurei Barrier. I don't think calling the spirit of a dead samurai isn't going to-"
"Mind your tongue." I instantly shut her up. "Just by his actions and his accomplishments, he has earned my respect. And he was no mere human, I might add. Sure, he died as a human, trying to overthrow his government. But with time and the accumulation of faith about his past and legacy, he became a demigod, when the locals managed to appraise his achievements...and as a way to appease his "malevolent" spirit."
"...He was that powerful?"
"If by definition of power, you mean complete determination and love for his country to such lengths that he didn't stop for anything to achieve freedom for his country, then yes, he was...no, is powerful. He's Japan protector, after all."
"...And why are you bringing him up?"
"Oh, he owes me a favor."
This shocked Yukari.
"W-Why were you around Japan during that time?!"
"Curiosity. And I also wanted to expand my horizons. Those pawns only kept interest in those who believes in Him. I have other views..."
"Look, I won't ask about the favor." Yukari said, trying to wrap her head around my statements. "So you say Masakado can and will help make a new barrier? Are you planning to call him here?"
"Yes. With the barrier being such a wreck, for him passing through here won't be a problem."
"I can see that. But for calling a god here, you'll need some sort of catalyst. Where...?"
I eased her doubts by putting something over the table. Yukari's face showed reasonable disgust, but this is the only item that is perfect enough for Masakado to be summoned without any problems.
"A disembodied head?!"
"For your information, Masakado is a demigod, not a god. Secondly, respect his head more. There's nothing to be disgusted about. His death was honorable and you should respect that. And third, Masakado's head is the perfect catalyst, don't you agree? Trust me, getting the head was the hard part. Collecting magnetite will be considerably easier than getting the head."
"There's that word again." Yukari said, referring to magnetite. "What is that? Is it necessary for Gensokyo's survival or not?"
I explained what magnetite is to Yukari, ranging from its form, properties to practical uses.
"I see. Quite versatile." She smiled, out of satisfied curiosity as she pondered about this new information. "So this magnetite will be used to call him, along with the head?"
"No. Only the head is enough. But Masakado will require magnetite to generate the barrier himself. He's not almighty, you see. Nobody is..."
Okay, maybe I let that slip out by itself. I cleared my throat and continued.
"Also, since Masakado is going to be the one keeping the barrier standing from now on, the criteria of entry will change. Now you don't require to be fictional or have been forgotten by the world to enter Gensokyo. Now, it is only required to know where the shrine in the other side is located and have enough power to traverse through...or just being a japanese that has lost the will to live."
"The conditions are too loose for my liking..." Yukari said.
"It is either that or no Gensokyo at all. Your pick. Besides, since he's considered a folk hero and a protector of Japan, the barrier will reject hostiles. Unless they possess power beyond Masakado's, they won't pass."
"So what about Him, then? Isn't he powerful enough to just crash the barrier?"
"In theory, yes. However, he isn't the type of deity to manifest His power on His own whim. He thinks that His power is overkill for that situation and will instead decided to send his pawns to figure the situation out by themselves. He's too proud of His power. Trust me, he won't use it at the first opportunity He has...unless situations are really dire for Him."
"*sigh* So basically my job is to collect magnetite, right?"
"In a nutshell. You don't have to worry about being manipulated anymore while going outside since that influence is now dead. You can get your ghost friend to help."
"...I see." Yukari sighed, as she served herself a glass of wine. I forgot to mention I took one out for this conversation. "Anything else?"
"I also require a magic circle to be formed around the borders of Gensokyo, as a reference in order to know what will the limits of the barrier will be. I recommend you hurry since Gensokyo's deterioration will soon increase with the shrine maiden no longer being identified as a Hakurei, thus, no barrier to protect Gensokyo while it slowly vanishes away due to the destruction of the book."
"Okay, that one will be tricky."
"That's why I recommended for you to ask help to your friends and associates. And we are running against time, so do try to hurry up, will you?" I said as I stood up, signaling that this meeting was over. "I ask the other residents to help in the gathering of magnetite. You focus gathering too, but focus even more on preparing the foundations of the new barrier."
"*sigh* Fine." She said as she stood up and opened a gap. "But understand this, I still don't trust you. However, I can appreciate your support."
Yukari then entered her gap quickly.
"Best of luck." She said as she vanished.
Okay, so that's done.
"Beelze, follow her and support her in whatever she needs. Time is of essence."
"Understood." He said as he dematerialized into flies and exited the room.
...
...Now then. Let's see how the others are faring.
"Loki, how's the situation here?"
Since Loki is here, I can move instantly to his location. The residents of this mansion were shocked to see me, a "man", appear out of nowhere.
"Oh, Lou! Fancy meeting you here!" He joked...even if he's still being strangled by Thor."
"Wait, who the-?!"
"Manners, young one." The one known as Remilia Scarlet was about to react...unladylike if I didn't point that out to her. "I'm here to...help you, in a sense."
"? Something amiss?" Loki said. He really has a knack to guess right.
I explained the situation to Loki. His facade dropped instantaneously.
"HE DID WHAT?!" Loki freaked out. However, it was a matter of seconds for him to recover. "Ah...I see. That's tough luck here..."
"Indeed." I said. "So I need everyone of you to do something to me." I said, now focusing my attention to the mansion ensemble and maid crew.
"Do something for you?" Remilia Scarlet said, putting her foot down. "You invade my home like you were something higher than me and demand me...us to obey you?!"
*sigh* Youth and immaturity. Why do you always can't be with the other?
"Okay. You could choose not to help. Then, Gensokyo would cease to exist."
Those words caught their attention."
"Now that I've got your attention, I have some explaining to do..."
I explained the current situation and what they really were. A part of someone's imagination, trying to satisfy their own fantasies and...desires, to say the least.
This revelation made several of them stumble back. Remilia Scarlet had no words. Not even her personal maid with the knives could say anything.
"If I'm not mistaken, all of you should have heard voices in our heads...or even visions of yourselves." I said, drawing near to Remilia Scarlet, but Sakuya Izayoi...yes, I think that is her current name, stood in the way. "Ah yes, let's start with your example. In your case, I think that some humans consider you either a "cutified" dog, someone who doesn't have any nasal control and should be dying by blood loss, a lesbian in love with your master, a lesbian in love with the gateguard...you know what, I think that they actually think all of you, even those outside, living here, are lesbians of one another! Funny, isn't it?"
"I think it's weird." Loki said. And weird is you keeping talking while being choked.
"That's not the point." I said, as Izayoi slowly stepped back. It seems my words rang true. She did saw and hear that in her mind. ACIS has already affected some of them. "Where was I?"
"So...so what?" Remilia Scarlet said, keeping her composure. "What if we are fake?! Hmph, I could care less about what others think I should think like! I won't allow it!"
"You do realize that some of them consider your relationship with your sister and S and M relationship?!"
"S and M?"
"Forget it." It seems that term is unknown to her. "Anyways, I commend your attitude. It seems Hanta has influenced you somewhat."
"Hanta? He's still alive?" Even though she respects him somewhat, she still consider him weak.
"He's more resilient than you think."
"...Yeah, I know." Remilia sighed. "Hey, what are all of you doing?!" She know faced her maids and friend. "Look, I give a damn about being some sort of object for their satisfaction. Look at yourselves! Are you really my maids? Then stand up! You are my proud servants! So start acting like one!"
"Mistress..."
That small, yet effective rally lifted up the maids spirits, as well as her friend, who were still struggling with the facts and ACIS. Commendable. Very commendable.
"I suppose you will help then?" I said.
"Well, I guess so, since my home is threatened and all..." Remilia reasoned, but she was still doubtful. "I mean, exactly who...no, what are you?"
"If this place survives, I can humor you in that regard. Maybe." I said. "Besides, don't you like the sound of you being the savior of Gensokyo? Has a nice ring to it, doesn't it?"
This actually made her more acceptable to my demands. Stroking her ego was a very good move, considering her personality. And also, made it easier to dodge that question. After all, some information isn't necessary right now.
"Alright, alright, you convinced me." Remilia said, smiling to herself. She did a full recovery fast... "I mean, it really sounds good. Hmm...Sakuya."
"Yes, mistress?"
"Gather everyone in the Library. Let's listen to what this stranger has to say."
"Understood."
Excellent.
"Now, let me explain what you need to do..."
I left the mansion, having already given my instructions to me. Now, I can be sure that they will gather enough magnetite in their current location.
I also asked Narukami...hm, that name is really catchy, if he could gather magnetite from the nine worlds. He didn't trust me, but at least he complied, saying he wanted to end this madness as soon as possible.
And as Loki...
"Thanks for the help, but I really wanted more me time, you know?" He was with me right now.
"I need you to do something for me while I search for the rest." I said. "Could you check Hanta for me? In the case that he is failing, call me immediately."
"Afraid he'll die?"
"I'm more concerned if the maiden escapes. If she does, she'll go directly where the magnetite is being amassed and...well, you can guess the rest."
"Eh, sure, why not?" Loki shrugged. "I need me some entertainment, after all."
With that said, he vanished.
If one can get around his personality and quirks, he is actually a very loyal acquaintance.
(BOOM!)
Hm? Ah, it seems that Hanta has finally decided to activate the small barrier I gave him. Whether he survives or not, it depends on him now. And him only.
Now, where was I supposed to go?
...Hmm, this place...A large field of sunflowers. According to my data, a youkai of astounding power should be here. Did she succumb to ACIS? Where is she exactly?
Maybe Yukari knows something more. So with that in mind, I took out my cellphone. These human tools are really quite efficient.
...
...
"Hello? I would like to know if..."
"_/_You?! How did you get this number?!_/_"
Hm? Was it that surprising that I knew about her number or the fact she had a working cellphone? Please, I have to be informed at any time. This is small fry considering the other facts I have found out about yourself.
"Sentry flies. Quite useful actually." I said. "But nevermind that, do you know where-?!"
I stopped. I could sense someone here. But its presence is faint.
"I'll call you back." I said as I hung up.
Yes, as I suspected. There's a body lying on the ground, umbrella on her side, cluching her head.
"Nggh...get out...my head..." The one who bears the name of Yuuka Kazami grunted, struggling to keep her own character straight. She stumbled on the bed of sunflowers, yet she doesn't seem demoralized yet. Only angry.
"If you wish, I could be of assistance." I said, making my presence noted. "However, in doing so, I'll ask you to do something for me."
"What? Who's there?!" She shouted, as she forcefully stood up, holding her umbrella in one hand and her forehead in the other. "Did you do this to me?! And the sky? Is this some sort of incident...?"
"I'm Louis Cypher. No, I didn't do that to you. It happened because of your...popularity and diverse interpretations of yourself by other humans. The sky is a signal of this world slowly being broken apart due to Hanta's actions. And, yes, considering the track record of this place with diverse and uncommon phenomena, this could be considered an incident."
"I...what?" She seemed to be lost in words. Can't blame her since she doesn't know anything yet about the situation in our hands.
"I repeat myself, do you wish for my help or not? You seem in quite a lot of pain yourself."
"...Ngh...! This is...nothing...!" Yuuka Kazami said, while struggling to stand. "Argh! No, I'm not into girls...! Wait, what is wrong with me?! No, stop..."
"Well, I disagree with you. You are obvious in pain. Don't try to deny a simple fact."
"Shut up!"
"And I'm really trying to be nice. Look, just accept my help. That pain is too much for you, right?"
"...Tch!"
After some more arguing, she finally accepted my offering. The only thing I had to do was to forcefully remove the memetic influence by force. Sure, the process was painful, but it was the fastest way. This world doesn't have the luxury for time.
Still, this memetic influence...it's really strong. She must be quite popular. And...I think it is somewhat sentient. Maybe I should hold on to it a little while longer and let Hanta deal with it later.
"Better?" I asked her as she massaged her shoulder.
"I will be once you explain to me what is going on. Or are you responsible for this?"
"Well...not exactly. It's just an unfortunate resolution of a chain of events."
"Hmph, that doesn't answer anything."
"Indeed. Want me to elaborate more?" I asked.
"...Go ahead. Whatever information I may get I'll use to fix this. The sunflowers need light, you know?"
...You have confused priorities if that worries you more than the fate of this world. Maybe it's a youkai thing.
"Alright, I'll start. Don't lose your head."
"How confusing can it be?" She shrugged, confident in herself.
"Okay, so there..."
"...and that's all. Satisfied?"
The sheer look of horror, confusion, disgust and anger was all I need to confirm that, sure, she understood. Her grip on her umbrella strengthened out of frustration and fear. And now that I look at it more closely, that isn't an umbrella. It's more of a flower that apparently, doesn't show any sign of withering. Impressive possession you got there.
"What a load of bullcrap! I understand what you are saying, but I refuse to believe so! Humans think I'm some sort of child molester?! What is wrong with them?"
"That the question with no answer for now." I stated. "*sigh* I recommend you to calm down first and help me solve this mess, then try to deal with your own existencial issues. And what I need is simple."
"Why would I agree to help someone like you?! Sure, you may look human, but there's something...eerie about you. I don't trust you at all."
I'm used to that already.
"Look, do you want to vanish from existence or survive? Because you could just do nothing and wait for cold, unrepentant oblivion. Your call."
She still looked defiant. *sigh* Change of tactics...
"You may think you will survive that. What about your garden here? I suppose this is your home, right? Something as breath-taking as this wonderful field...you can't possibly let this place vanish, don't you?"
The term "bullseye" would be fitting to describe my thoughts as Yuuka Kazami winced as I spoke those words. She then looked at me in the eye and asked.
"Is this really serious?"
"Do I look like a jester to you?" I said, plainly, without any sort of tone that may hint anger or threat. Well, a bit of impatience, yes, but that's justified.
"...Nevermind." She sighed, rubbing her eyebrow as she slowly started to cope with the direness of the situation. "...Well, you do respect my flowers. What do I have to do?"
I soon started to understand why humans get tired of repeating the same thing all over again. Sure, Yuuka Kazami didn't understand what magnetite (and by extension, magatsuchi) was, so I was forced to explain once more.
Anyways, she understood my message and left to gather magnetite. She reassured me that she did it only for her plants and not Gensokyo. As I said, wrong priorities. Or perhaps she's still in shock, which would have made her statement more justified.
That covers most of Gensokyo. Hmm...
*bip*
"Yukari Yakumo, are you there?"
"_/_This better be good news, Loui- *ahem* Lucifer._/_" She said, almost saying my current pseudonym. It seems she's finally gotten used to my presence.
"Yes. In fact, there are good news only." I brought the news to her. "I managed to convince the vampire and the one known as Yuuka Kazami to collect magnetite for our problem here."
"_/_You mean the problem YOU and Hanta made. You are still on the thin line here, Lucifer._/_"
"Worry not. It all work out."
"_/_Why are you so sure?_/_"
"Because I'm the one saying it. And what I say, will go, no matter the circumstances."
Yukari Yakumo instantly stopped arguing.
"_/_...Fine. In my side, I've managed to finish the errand you asked._/_"
Ah. Good. Just in time. After all, looking at the sky from this garden, I have managed to notice a small crack. But it is a crack nonetheless, so it is already worrying.
"Excellent. Can I go inspect it?"
"_/_...Ara~? Don't tell you actually don't trust me. Why, I expected more of you._/_" Cautious. And back to your usual self. Are you trying to make me uncomfortable and lose focus, so that I would spill information? Then you are wrong.
In fact, I might amuse you, since you seem to be bored.
"Oh, not at all. Just making sure you didn't forget anything important. After all, you leave most of your work to your shikigami, so I have a good reason to verify with my eyes."
"_/_Going against my Ran, eh?_/_" What is going to be your counter then? "_/_Then what about the Lord of Flies? Maybe he's not as efficient as he looks, riiiight?_/_"
"Now now, going against another's partner is childish. That does not suit you, Yukari Yakumo." I said, defending Beelze. "After all, what are your partner's accomplishments?"
"_/_Shikigami. She is a shikigami, not partner._/_" She stated. "_/_And as for her accomplishments, she's far smarter than she looks. I mean, she really has a way with numbers. Well, not as good as myself but there's that fact._/_"
"Really?" I was not impressed. "Like what? What you said were characteristics, not accomplishments."
"_/_Well...she...um...wait, let me remember for a bit._/_"
I have to honest here. I am actually enjoying this scenario.
"Since it seems that your partner hasn't done anything spectacular on her own apart from just obeying your orders, I guess I can start speaking about Beelze's resume." I cleared my throat.
By the way, I am still moving. After all, I cannot waste that much time. And I'm actually going towards her location while speaking with her. Just saying.
"*ahem* Beelze was quite the background, Yukari Yakumo. Freed the king of Babilonia under our contract. Retrieved one of Vatican's regalia, before it was stolen back, which was trully a shame. He also was key to our survival of the Holocaust."
"_/_ Wait, WHAT?! _/_"
"Hm? Why are you so surprised? You should take into consideration that we have lived far long than you. Don't ask so surprised. It doesn't suit you."
"_/_And you are actually right. Huh...guess this only inflates your ego. Yes, I admit it. You have a better underling than me. _/_"
"Not underling. Partner. Comrade. Those words. Don't consider him a slave of sorts." I told her. "There is a clear difference."
"_/_Right. Oh, and don't hide the fact that you are coming here, alright?_/_"
...!
"Okay, since when and how?"
"_/_Turn around for a bit._/_"
I did. And, to my surprise, there was a small cat girl spying on me, who instantly hid behind some trees.
"Odd. Couldn't sense her." I pointed out. And why? "Is this a particular skill of hers?"
"_/_ Not actually. She is...kind of untraceable. When she goes out to play, even I can't find her. I mean, one can always trust for a cat to return home, so it isn't necessary to go look for it, don't you think?_/_"
...Hm. How careless of me. I considered only the kitsune as an effective partner since her other shikigami was considerably weaker than them.
"Alright alright, I'll admit it. You caught me by surprise this time." I said. "You can call her back already."
It may not seem important from a normal point of view, but in this case, it showed that Yukari Yakumo still had some tricks under her sleeve. She showed that she can still be a player in this scenario and not only a background character.
Heh. I wouldn't be fun if I was the only one behind the scenes. A friendly interruption is welcome, since I kinda like the challenge. I better pass Beelze this info when I find him.
"Ah, it's excellent." I said, looking at the circle from over approximately a thousand feet or even more over Gensokyo,, alongside Yukari Yakumo. "Nicely done."
"Hm! Flattery will get you nowhere." Yukari joked. "So what now?"
"Follow me." I said as I started to descend.
We both landed near the center of the Human Village. The scene was one of devastation. I guess that everyone has gone back their senses already and was well aware of who the shrine maiden was. To say that both human and youkai alike were shocked by her sudden change and appearance is an understatement.
Oh...there are so many bodies splattered in the ground. Seems the shrine maiden did not play with preferences in mind. She attacked anyone she could. The small, easy-going plaza was reduced to basically nothing, and the air of peace was shattered completely. I have to admit, I am somewhat saddened by how things turned out. I tried to avoid as much casualties as possible, but then again, no one can have everything, right?
"Oh Reimu..."
"Remember that isn't her name anymore." I said, as we walked towards the center, to the confusion and anxiety of the watchers who didn't understand what was happening. "Shall we begin?" I said, smiling at her.
She just crossed her arms and nodded. With that said, I took the head out and raised it above my head.
"Sole protector and revolutionary of a corrupted era. Human and hero who loved his country more than anyone else, I call for you..."
As expected, the ground itself started shaking, for the dismay of the villagers. Yukari stood there, watching with curiosity.
"Heed my call. This land needs you. Repay your debt. I, the Morning Star, demands it!"
The red sky was suddenly filled with clouds, and then, a bolt of white lightning crashed into the ground, just in front of me. Right on time.
As soon as the smoke dissipated, the figure of Masakado started to show. His katana was planted into the ground and he seemed half-awake. His height frightened the residents since he was two-heads taller than the average japanese man. After some seconds, he raised his gaze towards me. He seemed half-awake. Expected, considering I used only the head.
"Lucifer, is it you who has called me?" Masakado spoke with concern, but not for himself. He instead looked at his surroundings, as worry crept into his face.
"Yes, and as you suspect, this is part of Japan too. Sure, its technological developed is stumped at the moment due to being isolated from its reality. But..."
"Japan is still Japan." Masakado answered. He then looked at the broken sky, with a look of determination in his face. "So...you called me to protect this land?"
"Depends. Want to be a shield here full-job and ignore being the protector of Japan?"
"Not necessary." Masakado said. "Do you have my head?"
"Right here. I tell you, it was a real mess getting this in the first place. I give my regards to the youma guarding the Kanda Shrine. They really are quite strong."
Masakado gave a hearty chuckle.
"Of course. They serve me after all."
"Oh, for the love of... Would you just hurry and fix the barrier?!" Yukari ran out of patience. I apologize about losing the track of time.
"Of course." I said, taking out the head. "And the required magnetite should arrive..."
I calculated the time it took for the head maid and some other fairy maids, along with the flower youkai to arrive with the sufficient quantity of magnetite.
"Right on cue."
"I still can't believe you manage to convince them."
"Really, Yukari Yakumo? You should know better." I said, raising an eyebrow.
"Yukari! What are you doing here?" The one of flowers said, as she threw the condensed lump of magnetite towards me. "Did he convinced you too?!"
"...Please stop talking." Yukari sighed with discomfort. "He is merely...cooperating with me to fix..."
"Replace." I corrected her.
"Replace the barrier." She said as she squeezed her sleeve in order to hide frustration. "That's all."
While the one of flowers still argued with Yukari Yakumo about this ordeal, the head maid came to me and handed over another lump of magnetite, about twice its size. Impressive.
"My mistress and Patchouli-sama managed to collect this. Are we done here?"
"Sure. But I wonder why you brought with you some of the maids with you."
"Patchouli-sama expected that you would need assistance fixing the barrier, so..."
"Unnecessary." I said, shaking my head in negation. "...However, you might try helping the humans in this village. After all, they are in the middle of something they cannot help with nor understand. And also, take this in consideration. The lot of you can fly and shoot bullets, basically defend yourselves. Them? They would have better luck even trying to survive."
"I see your point."
"Good!" I smiled to myself, particularly due to the fact that the head maid can grasp how dire is the situation for them. "You can instruct your colleagues to do so. And with that, they could at least gain a bit of experience in dealing with situations like this and stop being useless. After all, you do want them to be efficient, don't you?"
"...Wait, how do you know that?" The head maid reacted with surprise and concern.
"Young one, I have been around for quite a long time."
"...Cypher-san, that is kind of creep-."
We were interrupted by a sudden tremor. All of us turned to gaze towards the red barrier. Excuse me. I'll correct myself. I gazed to the barrier while the others wondered what exactly the barrier was, since they haven't noticed it at all beforehand.
It is interesting how humans can ignore such details while under pressure...
"You. What have you done now?" Yukari Yakumo, quite appropriately, suspected me again of this sudden event. And she isn't too wrong on this one.
"Hm, well, it is basically Hanta trying to stop the former shrine maiden as best as he can, hoping she can revert her back."
"...Can he?" Yukari asked, out of curiosity.
"Why do you care? I thought you only cared about the barrier, not the girl."
"..." That kept her silent for some seconds, but then spoke. "You know, I'm not so sure anymore."
"Well, if you really want to know then, he has a chance...a slim one, but still a chance. That is, if he doesn't die while fighting her."
"What an ingenious way of removing unnecessary elements, now that they don't serve any purpose anymore, right?" Yukari said, wrongfully suspecting me that I sent Hanta to basically die by fighting the shrine maiden, as a way to get rid of him.
"How wrong you are. It is because I see still some use and even more on him that I let him deal with this situation alone, after giving him some useful equipment. In fact, he offered himself to deal with her personally."
"He did?!" This information stunned her. "Is he crazy?! As he is now, he's powerless to even scratch her!"
"Don't underestimate him. After all, he did survive the mental strain of being the host of the Magatama, so there's something unique about him. Crazy or not, he's at least special in his own bizarre way."
As she pondered these words, the red barrier dissipated.
Now, did you succeed, Hanta? Or have you perished and the corrupted one is free?
Either way, I can deal with her personally...but it would be a shame if you actually died. Oh well.
"Yukari, Masakado, shall we begin?"
