Chapter 1 – The game is afoot
-17's POV- (At the same time Anton is having his speech...)
After spending some time hiding behind bushes and what not, Mike and I started our journey once more. We were walking down the dirt road, however this time, clearly more paranoid.
After all, what if that little beast isn't far from our position?
„...this is madness..." Mutters Mike.
„I can't believe we just left Paul to die..." I say, more to myself than anything.
„What other choice did we have? That little girl... monster... whatever it was, was no push over!" States Mike.
„We could have tried to help him!" I say a tad bit louder, in an agitated voice.
„How!? With that knife!? Hell naw! We need a shotgun at the very least for that monster!" Says Mike, who stopped moving and turned around to look me in the eyes.
„If I wasn't so generous as to carry ya ass you wouldn't stand here right now." Says Mike, slowly calming down.
„..." Silence befalls the atmosphere.
„*sigh* Listen." Says Mike, placing a hand on my shoulder.
„I am still dead tired after running for dear life with you on my back." Says Mike, as he continue talking.
„I haven't really slept for a while, and I just saw someone who we just recently met be torn to shit." Mike goes on.
„So, to keep it short..."
„Once we get access to a phone, we will call the police, alright?" Finishes Mike, putting his hand off my shoulder.
...
!
„Wait! A phone!" I suddenly exclaim, maybe a bit too loud.
„Shush! Are you asking to be jumped!?" Mike quietly whispers to me while looking around us. Once he is sure no one is coming, he returns his attention to me and waits for me to speak.
„Why don't we just use our phones?"
...
...
„Hmm, not a bad idea..." Says Mike, rubbing his chin.
„Only issue is, I don't have mine on me. I also can't seem to recall where I left it..." Says Mike, starting to think about something.
„In retrospect, I appear to not be able to remember the events prior to when everyone started introducing each other..." Says Mike, getting lost in thought.
„Now that you mention it..." I agree with Mike. Something feels off...
„A-Anyways, let me try to call for help." I say and bring out my cell phone, revealing it to the world.
As I go ahead and try to call the police I quickly notice one major issue.
„Huh... No signal." I say as I lower my head in disappointment.
„Well, we ARE in the middle of a forest, possibly far away from any kind of civilization." States Mike.
„Yeah, not only that, but I also am only at eleven percent battery..." I said right after I checked when I tried to desperately get a signal.
„Well, I dunno about ya, but we should move it." Suggests Mike, snapping his fingers in front of my face.
„The sun is slowly starting to fade away and no way in hell do I wish to spend the night in this forest with that monster lurking around." Mike says and starts heading further down the dirt road.
I sight one last time before following soon after.
-3rd Person POV- (Only a few minutes after the speech...)
-Anton & Co-
After Anton had proclaimed himself The Vozhd of the Human Village, he quickly realized that he was far from done before he could assume proper control over the village. In order for him to truly have a go, more than fifty percent of the village would need to support him. Otherwise, he would likely make the villagers angry which would result in unpleasant consequences.
As of now, it appears as only mere five percent support him, not counting the guards.
However, the numbers of supporters slowly grew faster and faster as the information spread through the village, soon reaching double digits.
Many were interested, but the most interested one was a certain individual which already had plenty of followers to call his own. He immediately liked the way Anton was thinking and made haste to meet up with him...
But before he would arrive, Anton had to solve the current issue at hand for himself and the other two companions following after him.
Which was...
„What do you mean no vacant house is available?"
Asked a slowly irritated Anton.
„It is as I said, the village doesn't have a proper housing spot at the moment." Said a villager, who is speaking with Anton about a place to remain for the time being.
„The ones which ARE abandoned, are mostly rundown and or filled with stuff as they've been turned into small storages." Finished the villager.
„This is ridiculous!" Said a frustrated looking Anton.
„I am terribly sorry, but since the village chief died we-" The villager was saying, before being interrupted.
„Since he is dead, why not grant us access to his place?" Said Johann, as he walked up next to Anton.
„No, I can't do that. Maybe once Miss Keine returns, she can help you out. Now, excuse me please, I have work to complete." The villager bows down after saying that and tried to leave as quickly as possible before Anton would even have a chance to piece together what was said.
...
„I swear, if I get that villager under my fingers I will..." Anton calmed down before finishing the sentence and noticed someone approaching him with a small group tagging behind.
Before Anton could speak up and ask what they want, the man in front spoke up.
„Ah, you must be the one the village is talking about, right? Anton Drevov, was it?" Asked the mysterious man.
„Depends who's asking, but yes." Answered Anton, furrowing his eyebrows.
The man grins before bowing down and answering in a cheery voice.
„Who I am is of no matter, what matters is what I offer!" Exclaimed the man.
Anton's eyebrows furrow further.
„But, if you truly must know..." The man said, as he noticed Anton being suspicious of him.
„Well, for now, refer to me as Mr. A!" Said "Mr. A".
„And who exactly are you, "Mr. A"?" Asked Anton.
„Why, I am the leader of a group people refer to as "The Secret History Association"." Said Mr. A, but before anyone could say anything, he continued.
„However, that is not our official name!" Stated Mr. A, continuing further.
„The group I created is called "The Superior Human Society"." Said Mr. A before adding one last sentence.
„The only reason people refer to us as The SHA is because we investigate the secrets of Gensokyo a lot, including its history and plenty more." Said Mr. A, finishing for good, for now.
Anton visibly relaxes, seemingly satisfied with the information he got.
„I see. So, is there any particular reason that you were looking for me?" Asked Anton.
„Of course! You see, I believe our goals are very similar if not the same." Said Mr. A.
„Oh?" Anton shows signs of interest.
„As The SHS, our end goal is to get rid of youkai once and for all and claim all of Gensokyo as human led land!" Said Mr. A aloud, but in a way which made sure only Anton, Johann and Mennini heard it.
„Hmm... you aren't wrong, our goals do seem to align." Anton confirmed, nodding his head.
„However..." Anton raised a finger to make sure he doesn't get interrupted.
„I still wish to know why you wanted to find me, you mentioned some kind of offer?" Asked Anton.
Mr. A clasped his hands together and began speaking.
„Why, yes. As you could probably tell, I have quite the influence in this village."
„Not only that, plenty of villagers support The SHS and its definitive goal." Said Mr. A, before lowering his head slowly.
„Sadly, it isn't enough villagers for me to be able to achieve real changes..." Said Mr. A in a sorrowful voice, before looking back up with a wicked smile.
„You too have little chances to control the village all alone, but if we work together, we could achieve incredible results!" Said Mr. A.
„...work together, you say...?" Asked Anton, a rhetorical question while rubbing his chin, thinking it over.
„Certainly, if we work together, our combined support could even reach past fifty percent of the village population! Not to mention..." Said Mr. A, before his wicked smile grew even more.
„Since you appear to have gained the support of almost all of the guards, you could also just force your way into power if my fellow villagers wouldn't co-operate with us..." Muttered Mr. A into Anton's ear.
Anton grew a smirk upon hearing this.
„What you are suggesting is, that I can become the official village chief with no consequences?" Asked Anton, looking at the sky as he notices it slowly turning orange, as the sun is slowly aiming to fade from the sky, being replaced by the moon.
„Yes and why not do so right away? The village is still in distress, the chief is dead...Miss Keine... isn't around and someone needs to take charge!" Said Mr. A.
„What do you suggest, then?" Asked Anton, with a cheeky smile.
Mr. A immediately explained his plan.
„During the night, you will take the position of village chief, officially. I will gather as much support as possible to ensure a swift take over, while I do that, make sure you inform the guards of the plan. If they truly support you, we should have no issues with this." Said Mr. A, confident on what is to come.
„H-Hey, but what if someone causes issues?" Asked Mennini, from behind Anton, peeking his head out to be seen.
...
...
„I doubt it, after all..." Mr. A is saying, having a confident smile plastered on his face.
„As long as Miss Keine is out of the picture, resistance is futile."
-17's POV- (Meanwhile...)
We continued going down the dirt path...road... whatever you want to call it, until we arrived at the end of the forest. We reached what appeared to be a lake of sorts, we couldn't see far for there was a lot of mist around.
What we did spot however, was a giant red mansion further down the path.
We decided to try our luck and see if we could spend the night there.
The sun was slowly but steadily setting down and neither of us wanted to remain outdoors during the night.
We are currently walking towards what appear to be the mansions walls and gate, separating the mansion from the rest of the world.
Looking at the mansion, it appeared to be a rather dark red colour. It also had a clock tower. Looking at it, I think it's safe to say it should be accurate.
„What ya think?" Mike suddenly asks, dragging me back to reality.
„What do you mean?" I answer, unsure of what Mike means.
„Do ya think the ones who own this mansion will let us spend the night there?" Mike asks again, this time more clearly.
„Uh... I guess? It would be nice, at least... I don't think I would be able to sleep outside after today... I don't think I will fall asleep regardless after today, actually." I say. Yeah, today was not a good day...
„Hmm, well, that's only you, then. I feel like I would fall asleep the moment I close my eyes for longer than five seconds." Says Mike.
„Don't get me wrong, I do feel like vomiting my guts out. But that is also mostly because I haven't slept for a whole day already." Says Mike.
A whole day? Does he have a night shift or something?
„Why is that?" I ask.
„Told ya, I'm a janitor. What I didn't tell y'all was that I work during the night." Answers Mike.
„Oh, and you didn't sleep during the night and after what happened, you are tired, gotcha." I try to say in an understanding way, idly telling him that I understand his situation.
„Eh, pretty much." Confirms Mike.
Afterwards, the conversation comes to a halt as we are almost at the gate. We spot someone standing guard right next to the gate.
Before I am able to get a good look on the person, the person abruptly wakes up from sleep and enters a fighting stance. This sudden action made us jump back a few steps before the guard spoke up.
„Who goes there!?" Asks the guard, ready to engage in melee combat from what I can tell.
„W-Woah! Calm down!" I instinctively yell, in a more controlled calm tone.
„Ye, we don't look for trouble, lady." Says Mike, also mimicking my surrender posture.
„Oh? I see. Well, what brings you two here?" Asks the female guard, crossing her arms. She appears to have lowered her guard, but only slightly.
Before I answer her, I quickly take a glance up and down her figure. She has aqua-blue eyes and long, scarlet hair. Her green dress and also beret appear to be from Chinese origin. Her beret has a gold star on the front with a Chinese letter from what I can tell.
„Well... we are kinda lost, to be perfectly honest." I answer, honestly.
„Yeah, the chap here is sayin the truth. We have no idea where we are, all we know, is that we certainly don't want to spend the night outside." Answers Mike.
As he finished talking, he quickly looks around. Both I and he immediately notice the sun is about to shower us in its very last light before the night time is officially present.
Mike proceeds to speak.
„There was or is a beast lurking in that forest!" Mike says, pointing from the direction we came from.
„It was disguised as a little girl and it got a pal of ours!" Says Mike, with worry in his voice slowly building up.
„Please, lady, could we spend the night in that mansion? Is it possible?" Asks Mike, clasping his hands into a praying position.
„Oh. Uhhhh..." She doesn't know what to say, putting her arm up to scratch the back of her head while comically having a sweat drop appear on her forehead.
„C-Could you at least tell us your name?" I ask, in a careful whisper.
She immediately turns to me, clearly hearing me loud and clear. She takes a second to think, before realizing what I asked her.
She proceeds to bow down and speak.
„Ah! My mistake! The name's Meiling. Hong Meiling!" She answers with a slight smile while pointing her thumb on herself.
„Name's Mike, Mike Victorn." Says Mike. Mike appears to have calmed down a bit. As he said his name, he also outstretched his hand for Meiling to take it and shake it. Meiling, however, appears to just stare at it.
„Uhhh... Not used to handshakes, I get?" Asks Mike, slightly concerned.
„Hm? Oh! No no, I know what a handshake is! It just isn't used a lot around here." Answers Meiling, taking Mike's hand into hers and firmly shaking it. Maybe a bit too firm, as Mike appears to visibly show discomfort.
I think that lady being a guard isn't just for looks, I think she really does have some power in those arms and legs of hers.
„And what about you? What is your name?"
I stumble a bit. I was in thought when suddenly Meiling turned to look at me and asked me about my name.
Well...
„The guy's name is 17. Didn't want to tell us his real name so we just gave him this one until he decides to come out clean." Answers Mike for me.
„I see. Well, do you also want a handshake?" Asks Meiling, outstretching her hand for me.
...I don't really want to, Mike was a bit in pain so I'll avoid it if I can.
„N-No, that's okay, maybe a simple bow?" I ask sheepishly.
Meiling smiles and nods her head.
We both bow to each other and then awkwardly just stand still.
At this point, the sun is already gone and the moon is visible.
From what I can tell, it looks like yesterday was a full moon. I am unsure however, since I wasn't really paying attention to the moon for the past few days. Even so, I hardly remember the past few days anyways...
Mike starts to get a bit worried and Meiling is just standing there, not really seeming to do anything. She appears to try and start a conversation a few times but stops herself just as she opens her mouth, closing it shut each time.
The silence finally breaks when Mike opens his mouth.
„S-So? Could it be possible for us to remain in the mansion for tonight?" Asks Mike, a bit shaky.
I think Mike is dead tired and is trying to avoid falling asleep until he is in a safe location. Well, he did say he didn't sleep for what? Two days? One? Doesn't matter I guess, since he still needs to sleep for today.
„Well, I can't allow you to entry. Sorry." She says in a guilty tone while giving us a "sorry" face and shaking her hands in front of her body in a sign of refusal.
Mike was about to say something. Maybe he wanted to beg more or try to convince her. However, before he got the chance to utter a single word, let alone make a sound, Meiling spoke up.
„Buuuuut, I could try telling Sakuya about it. She would most likely be able to help you out further." Says Meiling, smiling.
I and Mike look at each other in confusion. We both are thinking the same thing... Who the hell is Sakuya now?
Before anyone else gets to say something, we all get startled by the sudden sound of someone speaking in a harsh, cold tone which sounds professional. And when I say "all", I really mean it.
„Who are they?"
I and Mike take yet another step back, facing the way the voice came from. Meiling, however, jumps to the side and just barely manages to not scream. She appears to have almost suffered a heart attack.
The woman was staring daggers at us as she appeared out of nowhere and asked this question.
Quickly examining her, I can't but notice she appears to be a maid. She has silvery like eyes from what I can tell, it is already pretty dark, after all. She has silver hair worn in long braids on both sides of her face with green bows at the ends and a white maid headband. She wears a French maid outfit if I'm not wrong.
But before I can examine her any further...
The woman then repeats her question, turning her head to her side and staring with furrowed brows at Meiling, expecting an answer already.
„I asked, who are they?" She asks again, while pulling something from under her maid dress. I can't really see what, since it's already too dark and it's barely visible anyways.
„Ahh! O-Outsiders! They asked if they can spend the night here!" Spits out Meiling in a scared voice.
It appears Meiling is either afraid of this woman or still recovering from her sudden appearance.
The woman's killer aura slowly started to fade around her. Man, this maid is scary.
Also, "Outsiders"? What does that mean?
„I am sorry, but The Scarlet Devil Mansion is not a hotel. If you have no invitation or important reason to be here, I suggest leaving." States the maid, harshly to our surprise.
Mike didn't like the sound of that one bit.
„N-Now now, I am certain we can come up with a solution!" States Mike.
„First of, the name's Mike, Mike Victorn." Says Mike, giving a half bow while staring into the maid's eyes.
„Sakuya. Sakuya Izayoi." Says "Sakuya", this time, coldly.
I am no expert in communications, but I can tell that clearly Sakuya doesn't appreciate our presence.
„W-Well, Miss Sakuya, we really don't want to bother you with our presence and what not, but this is an emergency!" Says Mike, trying to show distress in his voice.
„There is a monster lurking around in that forest and we don't want to end up being the next in line of being it's meal if it finds us outside at night!" Clarifies Mike.
Sakuya, however, doesn't look slightly sympathetic. I would no doubt say she is cold hearted towards other humans. Cold as ice, is all I will say.
„I will give you one last wa-"
Before the maid was able to finish her sentence, which I believe would be one I and Mike dreaded to hear, she was interrupted by a childish, yet regal voice, coming from behind her further down the path which lead to the main doors of the mansion.
„Sakuya, what is all this commotion here about?"
Looking past the gate, behind the maid, a rather small person appears to have taken keen interested on what was happening. To my surprise, it appears to be just a child...
As I was about to take a better glance at the new arrival, I was cut short by Sakuya turning around, bowing down and apologizing to the child.
Surprisingly, Sakuya's voice was soft. Not cold and harsh like just a minute ago. Is Sakuya soft on children? Or is this the child of the owners which she serves for? Is she even a maid? Well, the clothes do point towards that conclusion.
At this point, I am almost at a complete loss. Just who is this child now?
„Apologies, my lady." Says Sakuya.
„I was just about to finish this." Says Sakuya, turning her head around and...
Boy.
I feel like I am starring death in the eyes.
I don't need to look to know Mike feels the same.
„Now, now, Sakuya..." Thankfully, the maid's death stare didn't last for long as the child quickly caught Sakuya's utmost attention as she spoke up once again.
„Is this how we treat possible guests?" Says the child. I fail to see her clearly as Sakuya is blocking my vision.
I glance over to Mike.
Mike appears to be losing consciousness. He appears to be falling asleep and waking up every other second. Somehow, he hasn't yet lost his balance as he stands firmly on his two feet.
I then quickly spare a look towards Meiling. Meiling, who was seemingly forgotten for now, only to realize she appears to have fled the scene!
At least, that's what I thought. For I quickly spotted her watering flowers not far away from here, seemingly in order to try and get away in case something happened.
Well, I guess that can't be true. Maybe she just also has to attend to the flowers? In any case, she is nearby if needed and I even manage to spot her taking glances every other second, listening to what is going on, clearly interested.
„Well then, who may you be?"
I quickly snap back to reality.
I must've stopped paying attention, as I quickly notice the child standing in front of me and Mike.
Sakuya is standing behind her, staring at us with judgemental eyes, as if the mere thought of doing something out of line will mean the end of both I and Mike.
I look down to look the child into its eyes, only to...
...
...
I was frozen in place.
Those eyes...
In no way shape or form are they human.
What is...
What is this?
Just what is going on!?
„Hmm~?"
As I manage to regain my composure, I notice the small girl is amused by my reaction. And or maybe Mike's as well, I am too afraid to take my eyes off of this girl.
„What's the matter? Never seen a breath-taking vampire like me before~?"
...
...
...
A...
...Vampire?
Upon hearing this, and having my mind process this line of words. I finally managed to pry my eyes off of her eyes and took a mental picture of her appearance.
The sun may be gone already, and it may be quiet dark as well, but I can still see fairly well enough to determine her appearance as closely as I can.
She has crimson coloured like eyes which pupils are slit, that I can say for sure since they appear to be glowing in the dark. Her head seems to be bestowed with short light-blue hair and a light-pink mob cap with a red ribbon decorated with white stripes, not sure if the colours are lighter or not. She seemingly wears a light-pink dress with a red ribbon on both sleeves and a large ribbon on the back of her waist I think.
That isn't the important factor, though...
The most concerning attributes of her appearance are the rather large bat like wings sprouting from her back.
And if that isn't intimidating enough, if we don't include the terrifying eyes...
I can also see a fang peeking out from the top of her smirk.
I feel like shitting my pants, and to be honest, I likely would have already done so.
The only reason I didn't was because...
She appears to be only around maybe twelve to fourteen years old.
But her being a... Vampire...
This could very well not reflect on her actual age. I don't feel like addressing it either.
„Oh, were are my manners? I have yet to introduce myself!" Speaks out the vampire.
„I am Remilia Scarlet, The Scarlet Devil and owner of The Scarlet Devil Mansion. Do not be fooled by my looks, for I have lived longer than you ever will! I am the descendant of Vlad the Impaler, but do not fear, for I am merciful as long as you show respect." Gloats Remilia.
...
...
Not to be disrespectful, but I think you got the point across a long time ago.
„Now, what fateful response shall I receive?" She asks, still with a smug expression on her face.
Just what kind of situation have we gotten ourselves into this time...?
-Fujiwara no Mokou's POV- (meanwhile...)
...
I went out and gathered some local herbs to make some fresh tea for Keine.
As I arrived, however...
Keine was fast asleep at the table where I have left her.
When I first saw her there, I got a bad feeling in my stomach. I quickly walked up to her and checked on her...
She was breathing lightly, she was just asleep.
No wonder, those coughs sounded bad.
After the initial shock, I took out the kettle from the shelf and prepared a quick blend of herbs I know make an average tea. Not the best one, but certainly one which helps with headaches. I fill the kettle with water and then place the kettle down on the stove as I throw a small fireball into the stove and set the wood on fire. I close the stove and let the kettle on top of it to do its job.
As I wait for the water to boil, I come over to the table Keine is sleeping on and sit down across her.
...
...
I hate it.
Why does she have to be sick? I wanted to hear her talk about what new events went down and maybe say a few of my own... those which did not involve killing or being killed by that bitch...
Instead, I have to worry about her pushing herself just so she can protect the village despite being more than just a bit ill.
...
„Sometimes I wonder, who the stubborn one here really is, heh..." I say aloud in a whisper, not meaning for anyone in particular to hear it.
„I think the answer is obvious."
!?
That voice...
...
...
...
Kaguya.
That bitch knows just the perfect time to come around and be a bother...
...
...
Well, might as well.
I quickly remove the kettle which just started hissing off of the stove and make my way out as quickly and quietly as possibly in order to avoid waking up Keine. Though, I doubt she won't wake up in the next few minutes.
As I arrive outside my house, I spot Kaguya covering her smirk with her hand before she speaks a single line of words.
„Did you miss me~?"
...
...
„KAGUYA, I SWEAR, THIS TIME I WILL KILL YOU FOR SURE!"
-Mike Victorn's POV- (just after Mokou started preparing the tea...)
„Now, what fateful response shall I receive?"
Is what that vampire asked the both of me and 17.
I was already barely holding onto sweet dear consciousness, but after realizing I am facing a fucking vampire which looks like a fucking child, I was awake and ready to run several football field laps again.
Except I didn't.
I was frozen in fear and all my attempts to utter something outta my damn mouth failed just like my hopes and dreams I had in my life.
I took a quick peek at my side to where 17 is standin' to check on his situation. No good. He won't be able to speak up any time soon unless I break the silence. Be it again or not, screw it. Worst case scenario, I'll be hanged upside down and slowly drained of ma blood. What happens, happens.
„Welp, I am but a humble janitor who goes by the name of Mike, Mike Victorn. It is certainly a pleasure meeting an interesting person as you, I admit." Take it easy, Mike. Don't let her make you nervous.
She turns to me and her smirk fades away, looking me up and down.
Fuck, I fucked it, didn't I?
„A-And I am..." 17 is struggling but still trying to give it his best shot.
Attaboy!
„...I am 17..." Says 17. Ey, ya finished it like a champ instead of giving up, I'll give ya that!
The vampire looks 17 over and then turns around walking back towards her mansion, slowly.
...
I know this trick... She expects us to stop her and ask her the question to why we came here in the first place, eh? Normally, I wouldn't do that.
But, but, but, but...!
The sleepiness is rapidly returning to me and before my mind decides to do any funny business which will lead me or us both into the early grave, I shall play along with her game. For now.
„Uh, e-excuse us, Miss Scarlet? ...If you don't mind me addressing you like that?" I say.
And who could have guessed? She turns around with a fuckin' smirk, well whaddya know?
„Ufufu~ No, No. That is completely acceptable. I wasn't addressed like that in quite a while, so I don't mind. But if you can, call me Lady Remilia, for I am more used to that." She says, keeping her smug smirk plastered on her face like a magnet to an iron surface.
„A-Aight. Uh... Ah, right!" I quickly snap out of my sleep trance and ask the question which I desperately hope will be answered with an yes of any kind.
„I wanted to ask, if I and my buddy 17 here could per chance maybe spend the night at your glorious mansion? I know, peasants like us are certainly not worth any kind of luxuries, but we take whatever you give us, we are in no position to bargain, after all." I blabber charming nonsense at her pretty much since I am too tired to focus on what words I use.
„So yeah... Is there a chance for that to happen? Please?" After I say this, I don't stop to think and add on one more sentence.
„Haven't slept for a whole day and something so excuse me if I happen to say something stupid..." I cover my hurting eyes with my hand after I utter this to not know her answer from her face.
I want to hear the answer, not see it.
„W-We would really, truly, appreciate it." I hear 17 say as a finishing cherry on top.
...
...
...
Silence.
Mate, I hate a silence like th-
„Very well, I give you permission to spend the night at my mansion."
...?
Wait, for real now? I mean, fuck yea! I rather stay silent in case I fuck it up somehow... wouldn't be the first time when I am dead tired...
I remove my hand from my eyes and nod with a slight, tired smile.
„T-Thank you..." I hear 17 stutter out.
The vampire, Remilia, nods her head and turns around once again and walks towards her place.
She speaks up but keeps walking, not turning around or anythin'.
„Sakuya, prepare two guest rooms. Once you are done, attend me by my side. I will be heading to the dining hall." Says the vampire, giving orders to the maid.
„Yes, Lady Remilia." The maid, Sakuya, answers right away and... where the fuck did she go, I swear she wa-
„Meiling, return to your position." The vampire says, and before I can process her words I hear a deafening sound going past me.
„Right away, Lady Remilia!" Says a worried Meiling which just ran past me.
„I know you are likely to be tired, however, perhaps you could accompany me? You must be hungry too, no?" The vampire asks, likely referring to us.
Nah, not really. I would prefer to rather sleep like if I was dead.
„I could also inform you of your current predicament. Since, you are no longer in the world you have been before if you didn't notice." She says.
...
The fuck?
Ight, fine! Ya got me! I will be there but ya better tell me what the fuck this place is, then. AND what the fuck that little blond girl was!
„I-If you d-don't mind..." Says 17, still stuttering.
„Don't worry, boy. I certainly will not." The vampire says, I can tell without her turning around, with a smug smirk yet again.
Fuck man, I just wanna sleep...
-Hieda no Akyuu's POV- (at the same time...)
Just before the night approached, I went out and visited Kosuzu Motoori in Suzunaan. When I first arrived, I saw her slumped on a chair reading a book. She was truly focused on it, as she failed to even notice me arrive despite the bell above the entrance slightly making a ringing sound to alert her of potential customers.
It was only after I tapped my fingers on the counter she was sitting next to when she realized someone else was here.
After she nearly passed out, she realized it was just me and as she did, a huge smile grew on her face.
„Oh! Akyuu! Phew, you scared me for a moment!" She says, as she places the book down, closing it.
„I hope I didn't give you a heart attack or anything." I smile back at her.
Kosuzu Motoori is a good friend of my. I often visit her shop when I need to print something or read a book she has in here. She loves reading books and we often talk about them, of course, sometimes we just have a bit of silly fun, but that's not a daily occurrence.
„Whaaat? Of course not~!" She answers with an even bigger smile.
„I was just really absorbed into this book! Here, take a look!" She says as she picks up the book again and show me its cover.
"The Wilderness: Its beauty and creatures" ? Probably a foreign book from the Outside World.
Certainly something worth reading when bored. But I don't remember seeing this one before in here...
„I don't remember seeing this book before. Is it new? Or did I somehow miss it?" I ask her for confirmation.
„Yup! Brand new! Found it yesterday near the village!" She says, proudly clutching her book.
„Near the village? Did you go outside the village boundaries?" I ask with a neutral face.
„Yeah, yeah... I know it's dangerous to go out just like that, but... It really was just around the corner!" She says, pouting.
„I won't hinder you from going out of the Human Village, just be careful whenever you do." I say, with a slight smile.
She immediately lightens up and nods her head in confirmation with a smile of her own.
Sometimes I do worry about her, she is very curious about Gensokyo, sometimes too much for her own good.
She owns a lot of demon books, books which could potentially turn her into a youkai if she isn't careful. I already warned her plenty about it and how her parents would certainly not be happy about it. Yet she remains stubborn.
„Anything else new around here?" I ask her.
„Ummm... Nope! Not that I know. It was rather quiet for the past few days. I don't complain, though! Less customers to worry about, more time for me to read!" She says, as she open the book again and continues reading where she left off.
I nod in confirmation, before I grab a book from the bookcase close to me which caught my interest and sit down on a pillow next to a table.
...
...
A few minutes pass.
...
...
Perhaps I could...
...
No.
No, I should just warn her about them.
„Hey, Kosuzu." I break the silence.
„Hmm?" She signals me that I have her attention, lifting her head above the book she was reading.
„Did you hear about the three Outsiders which arrived today, yet?" I ask.
„Recent Outsiders? Um, no. I don't think I have yet." She answers, closing the book and putting it into the bookcase next to her before jumping down from her seated position and walking over to me. She takes a seat opposite to me and waits for me to continue.
She certainly got curious rather quick.
„What about them?" She asks. I can tell she is expecting me to answer quickly.
„Not much, I have written them down but I still need to go over it a bit more." I say, with a sigh.
„It's just... I have a bad feeling about them." I say before too, closing the book I still held open in my hands.
„Oh? Why is that?" She asks, eagerly.
„They certainly seem like trouble makers, I guess... Could I have some tea?" I say and ask for some tea.
„Of course! I was thinking about making some anyways! ...Red tea as usual?" She says.
„Red tea as usual." I answer.
„Okay! ...What are their names?" She asks me further about the Outsiders while she stands up and goes into the back room behind the counter to get the required ingredients for the tea.
„Anton Drevov, Giovanni Mennini and..." I say before stopping.
„Aaaand...?" She says with kettle in hand as she arrives and walks past me.
„And Johann von Hochmär." I finish.
Out of these three, Johann certainly is giving off the worst feeling. A feeling off... dread, almost...
„Huh... Weird names." She says after a few minutes when she returns with a teapot and tea cups.
She places it all down on the table. She pours the read tea into both cups before handing me one of the cups.
„Thank you." I say as I accept the cup filled with tea.
She smiles and slightly nods her head before blowing some air into the tea cup to cool down the hot tea and takes a small sip. I do the same.
„Well, they do have weird names... but how do they behave?" She asks.
I place down my tea and answer.
„From what I observed and heard being spoken..."
„Mennini seems to be just confused and sticks around the other two for guidance."
„Drevov, on the other hand, seems to be the one who wants to guide them. He appears charismatic enough to be able to gather a lot of attention in a short time. This worries me a bit, since I don't know whether he has any ill intentions and what not..."
„I see... But hey, it's not like Keine is going to allow them to do anything stupid, right? ...And what about that third guy... what was his name again...?" She says, before taking another sip from the tea.
„...Johann, Johann von Hochmär."
„He appeared to follow along anything Drevov said or claimed. Just like a simple minded servant of sorts... But I know there is more than what the mere eyes let on."
„I want to believe he is hiding something, and is just trying to get onto Drevov's good side for some reason." I finish, letting my throat rest for a while and taking a sip out of the still warm tea.
„Hmm... What did the Johann guy look like?" She asks.
„He wore an almost complete brown attire. Impossible to not recognize on the spot when encountered. I doubt he will change his attire anytime soon, too. Round glasses, and a hat. Of course, also brown coloured." I answer.
„Even the glasses?" She asks, confused.
I let a quick laugh escape my lips.
„No, they are likely one of the only things not brown." I snicker as I say it.
„Hehehe!" She starts snickering as well.
We spend the next several minutes talking about other things which came to mind and we decided to talk about, while the red tea is slowly being drained out the teapot.
It was after we finished the last cups of tea when we heard a lot of ruckus outside.
It sounded like... People moving in a swift motion...? How late is it, actually?
After looking at each other unsure of what is going on, we decide to investigate as we stand up and walk towards the entrance.
Just what is going on?
-3rd Person POV- (Meanwhile...)
Mike and 17 were seated at a large table in an even larger room currently.
It was only recently since they arrived. Before, they walked inside the mansion and immediately realized something was not right. The mansion appeared to be bigger on the inside than the outside sight would suggest. One can admit, that maybe it is just a trick of the eye, an illusion. However, both Mike and 17 didn't have the time to ponder for they had to keep up the pace with their host, Remilia Scarlet.
They walked down several hallways that Mike began to wonder if he has died and this is his purgatory, to walk for eternity in seemingly endless hallways. As they walked, they also passed several other maids from the looks of it. The maids were giving both Mike and 17 odd looks the moment Remilia wasn't looking at them.
This was understandable, since both Mike and 17 quickly realized these weren't any ordinary maids.
They had fairy like wings.
Because that's what they were. They were fairy maids.
Once both of them realized that, they were staring at them with wide open eyes. Even Mike, who was at this point, half asleep the whole time and from here on out shutdown several brain functions to spare energy.
The fairy maids found it uncomfortable being stared at, so they stared back. The air was very awkward behind Remilia.
It soon however, was replaced with an aura of confusion when both of them turned away to look forward and spotted Sakuya walking next to Remilia.
Where did she come from?
Was what 17 wondered.
Mike just gave up on figuring this mystery out and just moved along.
It was then, when they finally arrived.
It was a large room with large windows in the front, with motives and coloured glass you would see in places like a church, however, they were specially made for this very mansion. There was a throne in the middle between the two giant windows and in the middle of the room, a large, long table you would see kings host medieval feasts upon during medieval times as shown by plenty TV shows or movies. The walls had a fancy pattern and were mostly coloured in a crimson like colour and to finish it all up, the cherry on top, a large, golden chandelier above the earlier mentioned table.
One thing was for certain, this mansion spoke the language of money. One could even believe, the mansion would be bleeding money if one were to breakdown a wall.
Remilia asked them what kind of tea they would prefer and once both of them answered, she said Sakuya's name out loud, snapped her fingers, which lead to us realizing Sakuya was nowhere to be seen. She has once again, vanished out of thin air.
„Might I ask about your opinion, on what you think of my mansion while we wait for Sakuya to come back with dinner? " Said Remilia, placing her hands under her chin as she put her arms on the table, looking at 17 and Mike, with a slick, light smile.
„Not something you see every day..." Answered Mike, in a tired tone.
„Well... It certainly has its charm, I would say..." Answered 17, not sure how else he should have responded.
Remilia didn't mind the poor answers she was given. She just wanted to study them for a short while before she would start the real discussion.
„I... want to thank you again for letting us stay the night..." Said 17, after a short period of silence. He wasn't sure what to talk about, since he was still a bit stressed. But not as much as before when they were outside by the gate.
„No need. It was nothing but a little generosity." Answered Remilia.
„I see... D-Don't get me wrong for asking this, but... was there truly no other reason but generosity?" Asked 17, in an uncertain voice.
For 17, it was odd for a vampire to just invite two random people who might as well be homeless into her grand mansion. His mind was constantly telling him that, there has to have been a reason for Remilia to allow them to spend the night here.
„Ufufu~ why should there be one? Can't I just decide when I want to be generous and when not?" Answered Remilia, her smile growing bigger to the point her fangs were revealed.
„N-No... of course not... sorry for asking..." Said 17, feeling stupid.
„But to answer your question, no, there was a single reason." Said Remilia, looking directly into 17's eyes.
„Which was...?" Asked 17, who tried not to blink in fear something might happen when he breaks line of sight.
„You caught my interest." Remilia simply said, before closing her eyes.
...
...
„Your interest? How so?" Asked 17, getting curious.
„You, in particular, have an interesting fate." Said Remilia, opening her eyes again.
An interesting fate...? Was what 17 pondered in his mind. Just what could she have meant with that?
Before he was able to question Remilia further, Sakuya has entered through the door with a serving cart which had several plates on it.
She quickly placed the plates down and after wards poured everyone a cup of tea.
Mike asked for black tea, while 17 asked for green tea. Remilia appeared to have been served red tea. However, with what senses Mike still has active on duty. He quickly doubted the fact that it's only just red tea.
After several minutes passed, everyone finished eating.
Both Mike and Remilia didn't eat much. Mike, because he was too tired to care and Remilia, because she rather kept watching her guests enjoy themselves on behalf of her hospitality.
Soon after the dirty dishes were picked up and Sakuya went away with them, Remilia spoke.
„Now that we had dinner, I assume you would like to have me explain your current situation, yes?" Asked Remilia, taking another sip of her beverage.
„If you don't mind... That would be much appreciated..." Said 17, scratching the back of his neck.
Remilia simply has a pleased smirk cemented on her face. She takes one last sip, before spilling the beans.
„You, my dear guests, are currently located within the dining hall of the Scarlet Devil Mansion, which is located near the misty lake you saw outside, which in return, is located in Gensokyo."
„Now, you are certainly questioning yourself if you ever heard of a place named like this, am I correct?"
Before anyone has the chance to speak out, Remilia continues on her word rampage.
„You will soon realize, you have in fact, never heard anything about this place."
„That is, simply put, because this place called Gensokyo... Is a different world from the one you come from."
...
...
Silence fills the room.
...
...
„Bullshit."
17 frantically looks over to where Mike is seated and notices him clutching his head with only one eye open, starring at Remilia.
„I have seen a lot of shit, but what I just heard is just bullshit. Complete nonsense." Mike sighed once he finished.
„I assure you, this is not "bullshit" as you put it. After all, even I come from the same world you two did." Answered Remilia, trying to ignore the sudden inappropriate behaviour her guest presented.
„I fully believe, that you are indeed a vampire, everything points to it. I would be retarded to be oblivious to this... But." Said Mike, raising a finger into the air.
„To believe we somehow got into a different world with no memory on how? Nah, I don't buy it. I buy that monster exists. Vampires, werewolves, whatever the fuck that thing in the forest was...sure." Said Mike, his voice getting louder with agitation.
„Hell, some humans can be considered fucking monsters for what they are doing!" Mike has reached the anger limit for his tired mind.
„But this is beyond absurd! Why should we be in a different fucking world for no apparent reason!?" Mike finished.
...
...
...
„It just doesn't make any fuckin' sense..." Mike said, resting his head on the table.
...
„M-Mike, you s-shouldn't be so blunt ab-" 17 tried to talk to Mike, before Remilia opened her mouth witch send a shiver down 17's back and made him swallow his last words.
„Quite confident now, are we, boy?" Said Remilia.
Taking a closer look at Remilia, one could easily tell she won't be taking anymore outbursts like that from Mike. Her toothy grin and glowing eyes could send even the mightiest of men to run away like no tomorrow.
...
...
„I...I am terribly sorry..." Mike suddenly apologized without taking his head off the table.
„I am unable to think clearly anymore and I failed to think about what I was even meaning to say. ...The sudden load of information was the last push I could take for today..." Mike said.
...
...
„I ask for forgiveness, I won't act like this again." Mike finished, taking in a deep breath of air while his body visibly shook and relaxed right after.
...
...
...
„I shall forgive you, for I want to prove to everyone present how merciful of a mistress I am." Remilia said, in a display of elegancy. She seems to be glad about Mike realizing he made a mistake which could have been costly if it continued on.
„I too, ask for forgiveness for dragging it on as much as I have." To everyone's surprise, Remilia herself seems to apologize towards both Mike and 17.
„I was already told by one of you how tired you must be, yet I forced you to eat dinner with me, before explaining your predicament~." It was easy to say, Remilia wasn't serious in the slightest. She was just messing around a bit more with the two of them.
However, Mike being dead tired as he was, didn't realize or really care at all...
While 17, thought she was being honest about asking for forgiveness.
„T-There is no reason to do so, you are the one who welcomed us in... We cannot be angry at you no matter what..." 17 said, honestly.
Remilia was taken aback a bit. She didn't expect 17 to believe her when she was just messing around.
She gave a warm smile towards 17, putting her hands under her chin once more.
„My, my... What a gentleman~." Remilia said, playfully. Trying to see how much she could wrap 17 around her finger.
„Would you be so kind and help a lady stand up, too~?" Remilia asked, presenting a hand to her side, waiting for 17 to come over.
17, still not figuring out he is being messed with, decided to do so after shifting a bit on his chair.
17 stood up and walked over to where Remilia was seated, passing Mike who already fell asleep with his face glued to the table.
Remilia kept watching him with the same expression and eyes the whole time until he was standing right next to her.
When 17 finally mustered enough courage to touch Remilia's hand, he was quickly surprised when Remilia suddenly used her other hand to grab onto 17's hand instead. Sandwiching his hand in between Remilia's much smaller, but definitely more powerful hands.
...
17 was unsure what to do and just stood there silently.
...
It was only until Remilia herself stood up and spoke when he finally managed to regain control of his body.
„You should pay more attention, or you might fall victim to one of the lesser friendly youkai around, trying to deceive you." Said Remilia, letting go of 17's hand.
„I will have Sakuya take you to your rooms. Before you depart, tomorrow, I will explain a few more things once your friend here is able to pay mind." Remilia said, looking over at the sleeping janitor.
...
...
„Should... should I ca-" 17 tried to speak.
„No, no. Sakuya will do that. You go rest." Remilia said, giving 17 one last smug smirk before walking off to where she pleases to go.
„If you need anything, just call for Sakuya. I will let her know she may be needed elsewhere besides my side for tonight."
Are the last words Remilia said, before finally leaving the room. The sound of fine shoes hitting the floor, echoes around the room. It is the last thing which can be heard from her until that too, fades and only silence remains..
„...I think I will have several nightmares for the foreseeable future..." Said 17, to himself.
„Perhaps. Now, please follow me."
17 almost screamed, turning around as fast as he could to spot Sakuya standing behind him, with a sleeping Mike hunched over on her shoulder.
How strong is that woman? Was what 17 was thinking, before snapping to the present.
„R-Right, lead the way."
Answered 17, before proceeding to follow Sakuya into their each assigned guest rooms where Mike and 17 would spend the night in.
The night, was still young after all.
...
...
...
Unbeknown to them, however, a pair of ruby eyes watched from the dark shadows of this mansion. Filled with curiosity at the prospect of new playmates or playthings, the pair of ruby eyes followed after them.
What may happen next, is yet to be known.
-Johann von Hochmär's POV- (Moments before the "coup d'état" attempt planned by Mr. A initiates...)
The attempt will be successful.
It is quite obvious to me.
Mr. Drevov obtained quite the loyalty from the guards because of his act of bravery to defend the village. While Mr. A, provided enough material to sway the minds of some who were unsure about Mr. Drevov.
...
Fools.
The villagers, the guards, Mennini and everyone else.
Including Anton Drevov.
Anton never defended the village in the first place, he only defended himself, I bet.
He may have good intentions, but he fails to realize how easy it is to manipulate him.
You say a few sweet words and suggest something which seems to help the people and he will do it, won't he?
Not thinking about the possible consequences, like everyone else.
I don't care whether he turns this village into a prosperous city or a thing of the past. I only care about him doing what I need to be done.
At first, I only wanted to use him to gain a safe passage back to civilization before abandoning him and that other buffoon so I can return back to where I was... whatever I was doing in the last few days. However, once I learned that this is a different world where magic is possible and various creatures known as youkai exist...
I realized I could dig down deeper and uncover things never seen before...
Once the initial confusion is tamed, I shall try to obtain some magical artefacts and analyse them.
...
...
If I manage to find something of great power, I might be able to have all my doubters pay once and for all...
No.
I WILL have them pay, and pay they will with everything they own!
...
But for now, I shall play along.
The game of power is currently played by Mr. Drevov. I shall assist him to achieve my personal goal.
If... he was to side with me. I see no issue with me working along with him till the end.
But... if he becomes an obstacle... then I shall leave him to his fate, whatever that may be.
...
...
Anton Drevov...
Before you, now stands a path of no return. You wanted this, you received this.
I will take advantage of this, and so will many others. Such as, Mr. A...
Whom will you trust? Whom will you side with?
Will you do as you promised? Will you admit defeat at the first inconvenience? Will you be crushed under the pressure when things go wrong? Will you lose your mind and go insane?
Or will you be able to last until the clock ticks one last time for you?
...
Who knows?
I, know one thing for certain.
In the end, no matter what you do, how you act and what you plan.
You will still hurt someone. In what way I cannot say. But someone will always want you gone.
Not everyone can be happy at the same time, after all...
Not even in a magical world, I bet.
...
...
„JOHANN!"
„What is it, Mr. Drevov?"
-Giovanni Mennini's POV-
„What is it, Mr. Drevov?" Asks Johann, who finally seems to have returned to reality from deep thought.
„It's about time. That Mr. A guy said we will begin in just a moment. Do you know what you are supposed to do?" Says Anton.
„Of course. I am supposed to make sure no one would try to attack you from behind while you barge into the building. I will stand guard with several of Mr. A's men by the entrance." Answers Johann.
Anton nods his head before turning to me.
„And you?" Anton asks, looking into my eyes.
„I... I am supposed to run along with the guards outside and try to calm any possible unrest, right...?" I half-ask.
„...close enough." Says Anton, turning away.
„Good, then I guess we wait for the signal." Says Anton walking out the building we were in.
Apparently, it was an abandoned storage building those "Kappa's" used at some point for a while. I asked about that, since I got curious and to my surprise, one guard answered me.
He said something about Kappa claiming to be allies with humans for the most part, however, he said that's not really true. They are some kind of aquatic youkai of sorts. But that's all he managed to tell me before he needed to depart.
Interesting, I wonder what kinds of other youkai exist who maybe even try to work with humans...
„Hey, get a move on! ...the signal was given." Says one of Mr. A's men who peeked inside to get me out. Apparently, I am the last one idling around in here.
I walk outside right away, and get ready.
...I just hope no one gets hurt...
-People/Factions and their allegiance/opinion towards The Vozhd, Anton Drevov-
Johann von Hochmär – Loyal
Giovanni Mennini – Loyal
Mr. A – Somewhat Loyal
Mr. A's followers (The SHA/SHS) – Accepting (Loyal to Mr. A)
Paul Garmith – ?
Mike Victorn – Suspicious
17 – Indifferent (Friends with Mike)
Villagers – Somewhat Accepting
Guards – Mostly Loyal
Youkai – Indifferent
(More factions will be added when the need arrives...)