Amazing. Ten years ago to this day, the first book came out. The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya. Ten years. Think about that. The series is a decade old, and is still popular...despite the trolling of Endless Eight.
Anyways...
Fan fiction is, by all purposes, a very low form of entertainment. At least, it should be, right?
Time for a little history lesson.
The term "Sherlockian" applies to fans of the Sherlock Holmes stories, and they were essentially the first literary recognized, in a way, fan fiction writers. Characters who were in the stories got their own published series. Remember , the girl from the Robert Downey Jr. adaptations? The somewhat love interest for Sherlock? She got her own detective series. Hell, one fan remembered that Holmes mused that he would like to be a beekeeper when he retired, and someone made a series about a beekeeper apprentice who ends up working for a retired Sherlock and solving cases.
It's just that the term "fan fiction" has become a dirty word in America. Oversaturated by Mary Sue's, self-inserts, and yaoi, it does not have much credibility here in the States, even by the ones who know it.
But then you have the fandom of other countries, other cultures...case in point, Touhou and Haruhi.
I've already mentioned the Churuya thing last season. Fandom gave birth to such a popular envisioning that it became animated and marketed. It has become engrained in the fan culture. When you think "Tsuruya", you think smoked-cheese. That's the power of fandom.
And Touhou?
Where to begin? I won't bother. It's too big.
The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya is owned by Nagaru Tanigawa. Touhou Project is owned by ZUN and Team Shanghai Alice. I own neither. This is a fan fiction of those works.
Beta Readers for this Episode:
Another Duck
werewolf2005
"Viewing things from only one point of view shows that you lack imagination and analysis skills. Even if the answer is in front of your eyes then, you'll be blind to it. That's because you can only see the back side of the answer. In reality, you're doing pretty well as a reporter."
-Yukari Yakumo, being interviewed by Aya Shameimaru - Bohemian Archive in Japanese Red
I thought that I was out of Gensokyo forever - that I couldn't cross paths with it any more. The months following that incident had yielded some interesting incidents themselves, including a big one, but I found myself thinking of Gensokyo...less and less, as if were the details of a vivid dream slowly being forgotten. I knew it wasn't a dream, as I clearly recall talking with Remilia Scarlet in my room, and I still had that nekomata trinket, but still it crossed my mind less and less.
Granted, I was busy with other things that took priority in my mind. The events of early 2004 had kept me occupied, along with school work and normal living. I had to continue my life as normally as possible...as normal as you can get with a time traveller, an esper, and an alien, that is.
I accepted it, you know? Accepted that it was really over. Besides - I had a blast in Gensokyo. I really should have no regrets. I went on an out-of-this-world (and life) adventure with three amazing girls, discovered the existence of the afterlife, sealed an ancient evil being, brought life back to a desolate winter land, and saved the world...again. What more can a guy like me ask for?
A hundred million yen, a model under each arm, fame, fast cars, etc. But that's all beside the point.
Point is, I thought I was done with the land of fantasy. A land created by Haruhi Suzumiya.
But Gensokyo wasn't done with me.
Perishable Night
Episode 1
["Import"]
"Although Gensokyo is a world of youkai, humans occasonally wander in accidentally.
This is known as being 'spirited away' by the people of the outer world.
Most humans who wander into Gensokyo don't return. If they are so fortunate as to be able to return to the outer world alive, they would be met with an overwhelming mountain of questions.
No one would believe the truth anyway."
-Perfect Cherry Blossom: Prologue
July 15th, 1914
The night sky was exquisite, the full moon illuminated the land below. The clear sky allowed the moon to shine in all of its glory, which was happily accepted by the one flying through said sky.
The vampire smiled as she continued her speedy flight over her continent. It had been a while since she'd let loose like this, flying at high speed, countries being passed in mere seconds. Remilia Scarlet loved the way the land looked. So many villages, towns, and such all just a blur. So many people to choose from tonight to feast on. Of course, she'd have to save some for her sister...
She sighed as she noticed a gathering of military forces. She felt the winds of war building, that the tensions on her continent were rising to unstable degrees. It was only a matter of time before war broke out. She wondered what would be the trigger for it all, but she also wondered if she should take advantage of it. Soldiers went missing all the time in war, so should such a thing happen, Remilia would have an easier time acquiring blood.
As she pondered that, something caught her attention, and made her heart flutter. She slowed down, and stopped. Her senses detected something special. Something she hadn't felt in a century.
What is that?
Curious, the vampire moved towards the village where she felt it.
The torches lit the familiar scene. It was an execution. The village square was filled with an angry mob, all shouting, all in an uproar. A person was being led, bound, and with a hood over her - it was a female - head. Remilia stared at the girl. She sensed power within the girl, and wondered why she didn't do anything; why wasn't she fighting back?
The vampire watched from the rooftops as the humans led the...thing to the front of the church. There, a man in a priest get-up started going on about an "evil one" being caught, that they would "execute this agent of the devil" and such.
Such boring tripe.
The priest then removed the hood. It was a girl. A girl with long straight purple hair. Her unemotional stare at the crowd confused Remilia.
You're about to be executed by these people, little girl. Either you're brave, or you're stupid. Or maybe both.
Remilia watched as the girl was then led to the makeshift gallows they had in front of the church. All the while, the villagers were jeering, calling the girl names, spitting on her, hitting her. The girl took it, with no emotional response.
Then a male attempted to fondle her. The girl turned to him, uttered something, and the man was thrown across the square, through a window. It wasn't the girl who threw him, however. It was as if the air picked him up, and tossed the man. The crowd gasped, then started to yell at the girl.
Remilia just smiled.
Ah...you're something special, aren't you? That was magic. You...you're a magician. A witch.
It had been well over a century since the vampire had seen a magician of this caliber, or any at all for that matter. Remilia had known that the paranormal ones were starting to fade away, and it saddened her. She tilted her head as the girl was placed in front of a noose, wondering if the girl would make an attempt to escape. The crowd started to exhibit joy, chanting "justice!"
Interesting. The continent, nay, the world was beginning to crumble around them, but these people still found time to persecute. Their world could end tomorrow, but they still blindly clung to their hatreds. Stupid humans. Always fighting what is different. Seeing that, seeing the crowd about to execute this wonderful person and them enjoying it...
Wasn't going to do anything, but their enjoyment is starting to piss me off.
Remilia chuckled as she placed her hand on the spear strapped to her back - Gungnir. Her fingers lightly tapping on the weapon as she wanted to wait for the right moment. It didn't take long. The priest looked like he wanted to be the one to take the life of the witch. He himself placed the noose around the neck of the girl, and started to give a speech, much to the approval of the crowd.
Remilia had enough of the humans having fun. It was time for her to have fun. She threw the spear.
It decapitated the priest.
The beautiful screams that followed were music to the vampire's ears. She grinned as she called for Gungnir to return, as the whole of the village turned to her. Remilia always loved this part - when her prey realizes what they are dealing with, but they haven't yet realized that they have no chance.
Nobody has a chance against the Scarlet Devil.
Remilia jumped down on the nearest target, impaling him. She then moved onto the next target, biting out the jugular. And then the next one, ripping out the heart.
Keep the kills fresh. Keep them different. Keep it interesting.
She always challenged herself to find different ways to kill her prey. It was so much fun to kill an entire village by killing every single person in a different way, and Flan always enjoyed hearing about it. Remilia shoved an old man into a stand of torches, burning the human to death.
Let's see. Decapitation, Heart-Rip, Impaling, Incendiary, Jugular...what's next? Oh! Rip off this one's arms and let him bleed to death! Flan will like this one!
Remilia did as such, and hung onto the right arm. As the limbless man shrieked and flopped about on the ground, she brought up the bloody end to her mouth, and had a taste.
Mmmm. Delicious. These humans have a good diet going for them. I shall fully enjoy tonight!
She dropped the arm as she noticed a human running for the girl on the gallows, shouting that "She is the servant of the devil!" He went for the trapdoor-
And Remilia rushed forward, pinning him to the ground with Gungnir, rewarded by the shriek of the man as he had a spear in his chest cavity. The vampire then removed the wide-eyed girl from the noose, picked up the human, and placed him in the noose. With a smile, Remilia opened the trap door. The human's neck snapped.
All right. Broken neck. What's next-
Remilia heard the gunshot and felt the bullet go through her body. She fell to one knee, gritting her teeth, the pain unbearable for a few seconds. The human who had dared shoot her placed his revolver against her forehead.
Remilia grimaced as she stared up at the man.
"You really think that's going to stop me, human?"
The man sneered at the vampire, readying the hammer of the revolver for another shot when he burst into flames. Remilia shot a glance at the girl she just freed - she had her hand raised at the man, and flames were covering her hands. She had cast some sort of fire spell.
I already did incendiary! There goes that challenge...
Still, the magician did help out the vampire. Remilia stood back up and turned to the girl.
"Not that I needed the assist, but thank you."
The girl nodded as Remilia's body healed up.
"So...you're not normal, are you."
Again the girl nodded.
"If I may ask, what's your name?"
"Patchouli Knowledge."
"Knowledge? Knowledge?" What kind of surname is Knowledge? And she looks bookish, too. Her name was almost Dickensian. "Huh. Interesting. Actually, you are more interesting. It's been a long time since I've come across someone like you, Miss Knowledge."
"I am a magician."
"I can see that."
Remilia blurted that out, and the magician raised an eyebrow. At first, the vampire thought that the girl would be taken back by that, but she just smirked.
"And you are the famed 'Scarlet Devil', are you not?"
Remilia arrogantly smiled.
"Ah. My reputation precedes me." Remilia kept her smile as she curtsied. "But allow me to introduce myself properly. My name is Remilia Scarlet."
Patchouli smiled, a sparkle shining in her eye.
"So it wasn't just a moniker. It's actually your name."
"Yes and no. I am called the 'Scarlet Devil' because I tend to get a bit..." Remilia referenced to her 'handiwork' as she cleaned the spearhead of Gungnir, "...messy with my kills. I know it's not proper to get blood all over oneself, but it does have a nice tendency to strike fear in the hearts of my enemies."
"Speaking of enemies..."
The two girls gazed out at the square. Everyone had gotten armed. Patchouli cracked her knuckles, and picked up the revolver the man had. Still smiling, Remilia once again brought out Gungnir.
"If I may ask a question, Miss Knowledge."
Patchouli's left hand began to sparkle, a magical orb starting to form, but she shot a glance at the vampire.
"Go ahead."
"Why didn't you escape?"
The magician bit into her lower lip, as if trying to find the words to explain herself.
"I've just started out as a magician...so my powers aren't great. I don't think I could have taken on all of them by myself before one of them would strike me down. At most, I would have killed approximately half the village before they overwhelmed me. Possibly 90% if I got lucky...and if all chaotic aspects went entirely in my favor, I might have been able to kill everyone. The odds were not in my favor. But since you're here..."
"Since I'm here I take the ones on the left, and you take the ones on the right?"
Patchouli grinned.
"Race you to that fifty percent."
"You're on."
The two smiled at each other before charging at the villagers.
July 3rd, 2004
I awoke to the sounds of my sister watching an episode of Sailor Moon R on DVD. The ending song, Otome no Policy by Ishiida Yoko was my audible greeting back into the realm of consciousness. I laid there on the couch, the hot afternoon July breeze flowing in through my open living room window. My heart pounding, as I didn't know what to make of the violence I had dreamt.
Remilia Scarlet and Patchouli Knowledge massacring an entire village.
I had no idea why I dreamt that. You would think that with my time and experiences in Gensokyo, I would have dreamt about it numerous times in the months that passed. Yet that dream was the first I had. I mean, I had nightmares about the little youkai of shadows, Rumia, but those happened while I was in Gensokyo itself. Since coming back to my world in January, I had not had a single dream about the girls. Until just then.
Interesting, to say the least. Is that how they met? Remilia and Patchouli?
Of course, I would have no way of finding it out, right? I was out of Gensokyo forever. Yukari Yakumo, the youkai of gaps and boundaries, said so.
I brought out the obsidian nekomata figure I had in my pocket, and I held it out, staring at it. I thought about Gensokyo again, reminiscing about the Scarlet Devil Mansion, Hakugyokorou, the Hakurei Shrine, Mayohiga, Alice Margatroid's House full of creepy dolls, all those places.
Thoughts that were interrupted by the ringing of my cell phone. My good mood was wiped away when I realized who it was. Haruhi Suzumiya. My sister shot me a glance, speaking as she turned.
"Kyon-kun, den...ah, you're awake."
Seeing that I was going to answer the phone and not let the ringing interrupt her show, she then focused on the next episode.
I clenched my teeth as I pressed the answer button, and without me even saying "Hello", Haruhi's loud voice boomed through the phone's speaker, mid-berating.
"-on't you know what time it is Kyon?! How dare you forget what today was! I'm gonna give you the harshest penalty I've ever given you! You got thirty minutes to get here! On the double!"
I hung up, smiling a smug smile. Ah, Saturday again. I had woken up early, and I had a few chores to do. After I finished, I laid down on the couch since I had some time to kill, and I guess I dozed off - which brought me to the predicament I found myself in. I was late for the Saturday excursion into town, and getting Haruhi angry in the process.
I got off the couch and stretched, taking a pause to watch the show my sister was watching. A show about magical girls. I couldn't help but smile, knowing that I knew actual magical girls.
Granted, they are magical girls of different kinds, but you get the idea.
But I couldn't stand there all day, not unless I wanted to tick off Haruhi. I made my way to the entryway, saying my goodbyes. I got my bike, and just stood there, looking up into the sky. I mused that every second that I stalled, the backlash from Haruhi was only going to get that much worse.
I couldn't help it. I thought about the girls again, remembering them, wondering what they were doing...
What Marisa was-
No. Stop. Don't think of her.
My phone beeped, signalling that I had a text. I found myself grateful that it was a distraction from a road my mind wanted to go down.
It was from Koizumi, recommending that I make haste. No, seriously, that's what it said. "I recommend you make haste."
Right. Can't make Haruhi too angry.
Ah, such is the life of a member of the S.O.S. Brigade. We heed the whims of Haruhi Suzumiya.
We...Itsuki Koizumi, the Esper. Mikuru Asahina, the Time Traveler. And Yuki Nagato, the alien human interface. And, of course, me, a normal high school boy who has nothing special about him...unless you count what happened in Gensokyo to be that special part, which I don't any more.
We all fight for her stability. And we save the world. Our merry band of High School kids saving the world.
And I'm loving it. Even though on paper it sounds stupid.
But I think it would still sell well if it became some sort of story. Who knows. People buy and read anything these days.
July 15th, 1973
Remilia Scarlet tightened her grip on the youkai, her free hand morphed sharp, like claws, ready to tear open the throat of the youkai if it did anything. The youkai struggled to move, but it was too weak, too beaten down. Gritting her teeth, the vampire coldly spoke.
"It's over."
The youkai stared into her eyes, the look of defeat dawning. It's lips quivered, and tears began to form. Remilia stared back, feeling a bit of sadness. Blinking away the blood from her own eyes, the vampire's breathing started to settle down as she took into account what happened. The two had fought for well over an hour, tearing each other up. And it was one of the best fights she ever had.
All for this land. All for this land that I will claim for myself.
She continued to stare into the emerald eyes of the youkai, who was still crying.
Such a pitiful creature now. But it's so lethal. Such a powerful warrior. It would be a shame to kill it...maybe I shouldn't claim just the land...
An idea formed in Remilia's head. She instantly liked it, even though it would take time to educate the youkai. The vampire inwardly shrugged. I'll just get Patchi to do that. Read, write, become intelligent. This youkai has so much potential to become a grand servant of mine.
Still staring at the youkai, the vampire let her hands morph back to normal. The creature's eyes widened, and spoke an unintelligible "huh?" in response. Remilia brushed the hair out of her eyes, her voice soft.
"Geez. You're just like Flan back then. Immature. Ignorant. Clumsy. Shining with such a brilliance, yet one that's ever so fleeting."
The youkai stared in confusion at this. Remilia smiled - seeing this "Scarlet Devil" like this just struck a chord with the vampire.
"I've really taken to you."
Remilia kissed the youkai, much to the youkai's complete surprise.
The vampire then held onto the youkai, still smiling.
"Your fate is in my hands."
The creature simply shed more tears. Remilia caressed her newest acquisition, proud.
"You poor creature, not knowing why you were born, why you exist. I shall provide your existence with a name, a meaning."
I can make use of you. But first, I think introductions are in order. Remilia straightened up, and was about to truss herself up before remembering that her clothes were torn to shreds. How the remnants of her clothes were hanging onto her body right then was a mystery all in itself. No use even trying with that...
"My name is Remilia Scarlet. From this day forth, you shall become mine. And your name shall be..."
Remilia stared at the features of the youkai, the youkai in human form. She was definitely of Oriental descent. Quite handy for youkai to take the form of the people of their nationality. It made identifying what they are somewhat easier.
Remilia took a minute to study the facial construction of this girl, her index finger tracing the cheek bones, the jaw line, everything. Not Japanese...not...wait. Chinese. She is Chinese. Unusual for a Chinese girl to have red hair and green eyes, but that added to her charm. Besides - red is a wonderful color. And isn't she the original Scarlet Devil of Gensokyo?
The vampire smiled. She came up with the name. It fit this amazing creature perfectly.
"Your name shall be Hong Meiling. Hong is 'Scarlet', and 'Meiling' is 'Beautiful Belle'. I think it suits you perfectly. My pretty Scarlet Devil."
The youkai, Hong Meiling, blinked a few times, before speaking.
"...Hong...Meiling..."
July 14th, 2004
"-on? Kyon!"
I snapped out of it, finding myself under the glare of Haruhi. It was after school, and Haruhi wanted us to go out somewhere, just a normal after school get together, I guess. It was a rare event, so I hastily agreed to it.
The Brigade had gotten together at the usual spot, and of course went into the restaurant we frequent. We were sitting at a booth, and I guess I zoned out.
Again, I zoned out thinking of Gensokyo. This time, Remilia and Meiling. The daydreams were vivid, almost like I was really there. The cold of the night, the rustle of the leaves in the wind - I even could smell the blood covering Remilia and Meiling in that memory. To say it was freaking me out would be an understatement.
Worst part is, I was having those visions since the third of July. Patchouli, Reimu, Marisa, Remilia, Flandre, and everyone.
At first, I thought it was because I was missing everyone from there, but after the third day of the visions, I started to get worried.
"Kyon, what the hell is the matter with you?!" Haruhi asked with such a demanding tone. "You're spacing out so much! School, on our Brigade activities, and..."
For a brief second, a flash of concern went through her eyes, her features softening.
"...Is anything wrong?"
Wow. She's actually worried. Just a bit, but she's worried.
I took the time to compose myself, because I knew I must have looked worried. I was worried. I couldn't tell her about it, of course.
But really, what could I tell her? "Oh Haruhi, remember when I took you to lunch and told you about Espers and Aliens and Time Travelers? They're real...along with Vampires, Ghosts, Half-Ghosts, Time-Stopping Maids, Witches, Flying Mikos, Youkai, Fairies, Nekomatas, Kyuubi's, Demons, Yuki-Onnas, Phantoms, Magicians, and Lesser Devils. And they are all hidden away in a section of Japan, away from our world that no longer accepts them." Yeah, that would go over great with her, along with the rest of the brigade. Seriously, thinking about Koizumi's reaction to saying all that would possibly be interesting.
Also, that's a long list.
What is up with me, though? What was up with that daydream? Remilia and Meiling fighting it out with one another? What is wrong with me? Why am I having these flashes of events? Am I really missing them that much? But something like this can't be normal at all. It's been affecting me. Haruhi was right. It was noticeable. It wasn't like I wasn't getting enough sleep or anything, but I was spacing out. As I sat there and thought about it, how it was for me for the past week and a half, sometimes those daydreams would force their way into my consciousness, and I would space out.
It didn't always concern just the members of the Scarlet Devil Mansion. There were other memories as well. Ones of Reimu, Marisa, and the others. Mostly just them living their lives, doing mundane things. Like Reimu sipping tea at her shrine, staring out at Gensokyo. Or Marisa hunting for mushrooms in the Forest of Magic. Or, heck, even Patchouli just reading. Those daydreams, space outs, whatever they were...well, they were interfering with my daily life.
Which is really not normal at all.
Such a musing would have to be kept secret by me.
But alas, I do have to keep secrets. Because that's what makes the world go 'round, right? The people who know what's going on behind the scenes have to keep some secrets from their audience, right? Keep people in the dark. Because let's face it - if everyone knew what Haruhi was, what power she had, then it would be rather...difficult to live life normally. Knowing that your very existence is on the fingertips of a mere girl might be maddening to most people.
Because it is for me. And if I told Haruhi what was really affecting me, it would only cause bigger problems.
"No...maybe...well, maybe I'm just a little tired. It's been hot lately anyways."
That wasn't a lie on my part. The heat had been quite high as of late, more so than the past few years. Japan was going through a pretty bad heat wave. I couldn't wait for summer break to arrive.
Haruhi slowly nodded as she sipped her drink, accepting that answer. Sipping her expensive drink that I paid for.
One of the negatives about going out with a girl, I suppose.
"Mmmm...yeah...yeah it is, isn't it?"
Biggest sheep of them all. Remilia was right.
Haruhi stretched in her seat, and then sighed.
"Yeah, it really is hot out there. Just be sure to drink plenty of fluids, and you should be all right."
"Should be?"
She ignored my quip as she continued to finish her drink. In between sips, she was staring out the window and humming Switchfoot's "Meant to Live" to herself. The rest of the Brigade also took this time to finish what was before us as well. Besides Haruhi's humming, we sat there in silence.
It was nice, actually, the five of us just sitting there, enjoying being together, out getting refreshments during a hot summer day. I had begun to cherish moments like that, because I had to. I had to take the peaceful moments and hold onto them for those precious seconds that I could. Because not only do I have to deal with Haruhi's insanity, but also the fact that there were those who wish to take her power for themselves.
I too stared out the window, wondering how I got caught up in all this - in the middle of a secret war being waged by secret societies, a war waged over two "gods".
It was like Yukari said - I simply talked to Haruhi. That got me involved with her. And in turn, I got involved in all of this.
Well, my fault, I guess, for having the guts to speak to a pretty girl.
Then again, like I've said, I would never trade this for anything else. It had gotten me involved with some interesting people...and involved with Haruhi. There was something building between us, and we were taking interest with each other.
Fine by me. Haruhi's a beautiful young woman. And yes, I've said it before, she's bossy, and at times unbearable, but there is a human being under all that. A wonderful human being. I keep on finding myself thinking of her...normally, I mean.
At that time however, I found myself again thinking of Remilia, Meiling, and everyone else. Why were my thoughts with them? Why did I keep thinking about Gensokyo? It was nice to think of them again, but the thoughts were invading my life.
I pinched the bridge of my nose, my focus on the bit of pain I was inflicting on myself, trying to get that memory out of my mind.
Why? Why is this happening?
We had gathered outside of the restaurant, saying our goodbyes (and Haruhi giving me a kiss on the cheek, (which I didn't mind at all). She looked me in the eyes, that slight worried expression back there.
"You sure you okay?"
"Yeah...yeah...it just has to be the heat."
Maybe I'm just really tired. Maybe the heat really is getting to me. It's hot in my house - my dad is still attempting to fix the air conditioner. And of course, the air conditioning in our school just plain sucks. Maybe that's it. Just the heated air.
Wishful thinking on my part. That's all I have to hold onto at times.
Haruhi gave me a nod and a slight smile that I had come to look forward to. She makes me want to pull my hair out, but damn it, that smile makes it all worth it. Everyone but me and the interface went their separate ways. We stood there for a while, and I turned to leave, but Nagato still stood there, looking up at me.
"Hmm? Nagato, what's wrong?"
She kept her silent stare, her eyes narrowing a bit. I knew this reaction of hers - she was searching for the words to use.
"I do not know. While the heat wave might affect you, it should not affect you to the levels of what you are experiencing right now. Your mind is preoccupied with other things. If I may ask what-"
I cut her off, even though it pained me to do so.
"Nagato..."
I took a deep breath, this tightening in my chest forming.
Nagato. The person whom I trust the most in the Brigade...and I had to keep things from her too.
Thing is, why? Why did I feel the need to keep Gensokyo a secret? It was weird. Maybe because, for once, it was a secret just for me?
Besides, didn't Yukari say so? Their respective organizations know about Gensokyo, but they never told my friends. So...what? That must mean that there is a reason why they don't know. Why they shouldn't know, right?
Thing is, I can't keep it a secret forever. I'll have to tell her. Me keeping this is only giving me more and more stress. And what would be the consequences of telling her this? Why shouldn't someone else know? Why shouldn't Nagato know? She's saved my useless hide...the least I can do is trust her with this. She can keep a secret.
Then again, I did ask her if there was an afterlife, and she couldn't tell me. "Classified Information". And I know that Hakugyokorou exists. She could not tell me, so she has secrets to keep from me.
Something struck me - a feeling. Like I was fed up with the situation. Fed up with the lies we tell and the truths we keep. Especially with those closest to us.
I stared into the eyes of Nagato. She just blinked, awaiting my answer.
I had to answer her.
Screw it. I hate this classified information bull. I hate all these secrets. I'm tired of them. Besides, I betrayed their trust when I told the residents of the Scarlet Devil Mansion all about them. I at least owe my Brigade associates that much.
And at the very least, I owe Nagato the truth. I owe her so much.
And on the selfish side of things, maybe she'd be able to do something about the bombardment of memories I was having.
I should have done this after the third day. I should have told her. Maybe she could have done something about it by now.
Why, however, did I not tell her, or anybody for that matter? Maybe because I really am an idiot clinging to the idea that this wasn't something major. I should know better than to have such hope. It would be as if I had been injured, and not gone to the doctor because I convinced myself I wasn't injured, even though I was clearly in pain. Even the people around me started to notice that "pain". I needed to stop being that idiot, because my "pain" hadn't gone away.
Above all else, that would be enough to tell her.
I decided it right then and there. I'd tell Nagato, only her for the time being. Not Koizumi or Asahina. Just Nagato. It would make me the most comfortable, actually.
However, the thought that she would feel extreme betrayal crossed my mind. Still...I owed her.
Enough musing.
"...Nagato...there is actually something I need to tell you. But not right now. Later. Maybe...maybe at your home tonight."
I wouldn't feel comfortable saying it out in the open like that, and doing such an explanation in her home would be for the best, and again, make me more comfortable in doing so. A small relieved look washed over her face, miniscule, but noticeable by me.
"I see. It concerns Haruhi Suzumiya?"
"Yeah. It concerns Haruhi."
In a way you won't believe.
I continued.
"Nagato, I'm sorry for keeping it from you, actually, but I will tell you tonight. I..." I stared into her eyes, looking for some sort of understanding of the situation, even if she was in the dark. Of course, Nagato really didn't have much facial expressions, making it hard to read her. However, due to the time I've spent with her, I've noticed her have slight tells. Nagato appeared to be searching my face for anything - reading any of my reactions. Intently, well, for Nagato anyway. "...I'm just a little afraid you wouldn't believe me. You see, it happened in January, actually."
Her eyes widened a bit as I confirmed what she must have been thinking.
"Yeah...that. You noticed it, didn't you? I'm sorry for keeping it from you for so long, but...I'll tell you what it is tonight, okay?" I moved near her. "It'll be worth it, okay, Nagato? You might get mad at me for this...so, tell you what...let's go to the library for now, okay? Let's get some books for you?"
It was my way of attempting to bribe Nagato, I guess. The only thing I could think of at that point in time, you know, to soften the blow of that betrayal.
Nagato slowly nodded, seemingly satisfied, and seemingly accepting my bribe.
"Very well."
The trip to the library was uneventful. Thankfully, I had no more flashes of memories or daydreams of Gensokyo. As Nagato disappeared into the stacks, I made my way to one of the seats, hoping I could find one that was directly under one of the air conditioner vents that were on full blast, silently and selfishly cursing the fact that the library was cooler than the freaking classrooms. I passed by a gathering of book carts, and casually glanced in their direction.
What I saw caught my eye, and made me stop.
Oh man...
On one of the book carts, there it lay, all by itself on the top. Its title called out to me.
Kunio Yanagita's "Tono Monogatari".
Kunio Yanagita - the father of Japanese Folk Legends. He wrote about Mayohiga in this work. As if in automated response, I brought out my nekomata figure, clenching it in my hand.
In my mind, I went back to that snow covered empty village, standing there with Reimu and Sakuya. At the time, I had thought hard to remember the lines: "The Mysterious Mansion, 'Mayohiga.' Inside are various utensils and livestock. It is said that everyone who has taken one home was always soon after blessed with great happiness." We had explored the village after Reimu defeated one of Yukari Yakumo's servants, Chen, and found the houses to contain a load of figurines, including my nekomata figure.I smiled as I recalled Reimu's interest in acquiring a charm for herself.
I just can't stop thinking about Gensokyo today, can I? I didn't know if that was a good thing or a bad thing.
"-young man?"
I shook as I brought myself out of that thought. An elderly woman, who was near the cart was staring at me with her violet eyes. I don't think I had ever seen her before in that library.
"Excuse me?"
"I said are you interested in that book, young man?"
I glanced back at the book, and then turned back to her.
"Uh, yeah. Why not?"
She smiled a sweet smile that you'd expect grandmothers to give you. The kind that puts you at ease.
"Well, if you would like to read it, by all means go ahead. It's already been checked in, and I was about to shelve it. But books are meant to be read, young man. So, please. Give it its purpose."
Her smile became a sad smile as I picked up the book.
"Yes, not too many people read that any more. Nobody is interested in the folk tales of yesteryear. The youkai live on in those tales...and because of those tales. Those stories were lucky to be recorded into that book. Who knows how many more were lost over time. Countless youkai lost because they were forgotten..."
She said that with a far away look in those violet eyes. She then gave me another smile, and pushed the cart.
I stared after her. There was something familiar about her eyes. I couldn't place it. It shouldn't have bothered me, as she appeared to be just a stereotypical elderly librarian. It was weird that it did bother me.
Also, what was up with that speech? Youkai forgotten?
I just inwardly shrugged as I carried the book, sat down at a desk, and began to read.
Man this book. I had forgotten how haphazard the book was written. Kunio had sat down with a story teller and recorded whatever stories were told, without rhyme or reason. There was no structure to it all - whatever story came into the mind of the orator, it was put down. Kami's, Tengu, Kappa, and the like; some of the stories were violent, others were short and simple, without much to them. I yawned as I checked my watch.
Man, where is Nagato? The sun is setting by now.
I was tired a while before, but being in the library actually woke me up, if you can believe that. Ah well. I'll have a nice long sleep tonight...after playing some more Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures, and that meeting with Nagato.
I was really looking forward to playing that, actually. Maybe I'd swing by my house and bring the Gamecube with me to Nagato's to play that with her...before or after I tell her? I don't know. That would be interesting, actually, to have Nagato assist me in my journey to Hyrule. Or my other Brigade associates. I doubted that Asahina was a gamer, but there was a chance Koizumi was.
It might be good for us. The four of us who deal with Haruhi gather and blow off some steam playing a game together. Of course we could talk business of keeping Haruhi stable, but while doing something fun. Not that the usual shogi isn't fun, but it would be nice to do something all together, you know? All four of us.
Also, with Nagato playing alongside us, we couldn't lose. Day of Sagittarius was a cakewalk for her.
Speaking of the alien human interface, I looked around, and didn't see Nagato.
"Nagato?"
Where did she go? I checked my watch again, even though I just checked it a second ago. Damn it, Nagato, where are you? Getting up from my seat, I made my way around the library, looking for my fellow Brigade associate.
"Nagato?"
No response, not even after going through the library twice.
For a brief second, I thought Nagato was playing hide and seek with me, but then I laughed at myself for even thinking such a thing. I kept going through the stacks for a third time, slowly checking each aisle, but picking up speed. Soon, the aisles were a blur to me as I quickly checked. I kept going...going...
Wait, did the library just get bigger? Also, when did it get darker? I glanced up, and for some reason, my mind made the connection that the shelves looked different - the wooden shelves were ornate. It was unnervingly familiar. Even the wallpaper...hell, everything looked different.
I didn't pay it much mind, as I had to find Nagato. I brought out my cell phone, and began to dial her number, only to see that I had no bars.
Okay, this is getting weird.
The next aisle, I heard movement. I turned the corner, and saw a girl up on a step ladder, shelving books.
Maybe another pair of eyes will help out here.
"Uhm, excuse me, could you help me-"
My mind caught up to me. I must be dense. She has wings on the back of her head and back...bat wings. That familiar black dress. That long red hair. That, and I began to recognize where I was. I wasn't at the library I was at just a few seconds ago.
Stunned, I stared at the girl, who in response to my voice, turned to me. It took me a second to recognize her. The Assistant Librarian...
Koakuma?
On her face, at first, utter confusion, but then happiness.
"Kyon?"
She jumped off the stepladder and then quickly embraced me.
"Kyon!"
"Ah...ah...Koakuma?"
While I was happy to see the summoned little devil again, my mind shouted at me some very important information: Hello idiot! This shouldn't be happening! This shouldn't be possible!
Months later, Marisa was still right. I am dense.
I suppose it was the same for Koakuma, because she backed up after a while, and stared at me, confused again.
"Kyon...what are you doing back...?"
The look on my face must told her the story. I did not know why I was in this library. The library of the Scarlet Devil Mansion. Which was located in Gensokyo.
I was back in Gensokyo.
How in the hell did I get back? It wasn't some grand event that brought me back either. One second, I'm in the public library, looking for Nagato, and the next, I find myself in Gensokyo. There was no grand transition, no warp. Just...a seamless "cut" into it, like some really bad editing in a "B" movie.
Koakuma continued despite my musings.
"Kyon, you didn't...why are you here?"
I searched her unnatural eyes, looking for...something. Anything. Because reality was, I had nothing. No rhyme or reason to why or how I got there.
"I'd like to know that too. You're asking the wrong person...though...though at least I didn't go through a world of eyes."
True. My mind went back to when I was there. The portal world of eyes, caused by Yukari Yakumo, the youkai demon of gaps and boundaries. She brought me into Gensokyo back in January.
I didn't go through such a thing this time.
Koakuma gave me another smile.
"Yes...Yukari has been busy as of late, I think. But I thought she didn't want you to come back?"
"That's what she said. She couldn't have brought me back, but..."
I trailed, unable to finish that sentence, unable to think clearly. I was a stunned by this turn of events. It's not every day one gets transported from one part of your country to another in a flash of a second, mind you. Much less into an "alternate world" part of the country. The SDM's Assistant Librarian showed genuine happiness that I was there. I smiled at her.
"Either way, Koakuma, its good to be back."
Is it? Is it good to be back? I mean, if Haruhi finds that I'm gone...well, all we have to do is find Yukari, and she'll bring me back to the exact time that I left. No biggie, right? Right?
Then again, I'm counting on it being that simple.
Nothing is ever simple for me. Even when it's supposed to be.
"Ah, but Lady Patchouli will be thrilled to see you again! Everyone will!"
Grabbing me by the hand, Koakuma led me through the maze that was the library. Eventually we came to the central area, the one with the large table where the Magician Librarian of the Scarlet Devil Mansion, Patchouli Knowledge, sat at, reading a very big tome. She sipped her tea, obviously engrossed by what she was reading, and didn't hear us approaching. A fairy maid was there, and when she saw me, she took off. Guess that maid-gossip rumor mill is about to start.
I couldn't help but smile when I saw Patchouli. I wanted to get home, but I figured that saying hello couldn't hurt, at least.
For a brief second, I considered sneaking up on her, placing my hands over her eyes, and saying "Guess who?" But considering that she might get startled and blow me to ash with some sort of spell in response...
Yeah, that would go over great on my tombstone. "Born an idiot. Died an idiot."
"Lady Patchouli!" squealed Koakuma. "You'll never believe who I found in here!"
She didn't even look up, a grimace forming on the Librarian's face.
"Bah...Marisa. Back to steal my books again."
The Librarian glanced up, stared at me for a second, then went back reading. I could see the gears in her head turning. Her brow furrowed, and she did a double take. Patchouli's eyes widened as she realized that I was really there. Also, "Back to steal her books again?" I guess Marisa was still up to no good.
Marisa...
Damn it. Not now.
"By God...Kyon?"
Patchouli stood up from her chair, still wide-eyed, and made her way to me. She stopped before me, and slowly placed her hand on my arm, as if to physically ensure that I was really there.
"...Kyon...you really are here! Why...?"
The librarian turned to Koakuma, almost as if looking for some sort of explanation. The little devil girl gave a slight shrug.
"I don't know, Lady Patchouli. I was shelving books, and there he was. Just out of nowhere."
Patchouli turned to me again, a bewildered look on her face.
"Uh...hi," I said.
Patchouli stood there, blinking, apparently unsure of how to go about this. Eventually she did speak.
"I can't believe it. You're back. But...Yukari said..."
"Yeah I know. She said she wouldn't bring me back, and I don't think she did." I rubbed the back of my neck. "Uhm, you wouldn't have happened to be the ones to have teleported me in here, would you?"
Patchouli shook her head as she motioned for me to sit down.
"No. No we weren't. We know that we shouldn't interfere with your events, although..." Patchouli tapped a finger on her chin, her brow furrowing. "...although I wouldn't put it past Remi to do something like this on a whim. She's been..." The Librarian paused and pursed her lips. "She's been kind of depressed lately."
"Why?"
"There...there was another incident, and she got beaten again by Reimu. We didn't cause it, but Reimu still invaded our..." A smile came over Patchouli's face. "I'm sorry. I didn't greet you back, did I? It's rude of me."
"It's okay, Patchouli."
"Welcome back, Kyon."
An incident? One where Remilia got defeated by Reimu again? What happened?
"Kid!'
I couldn't dwell on that thought. The Scarlet Devil Mansion's Chief Guard, Hong Meiling stood there in the doorway, grinning. There were a few of the fairy maids I had talked to during my visit, all apparently glad to see me as well, along with a crowd of maids and guards who stopped by to see what was going on. I stood up as Meiling made her way to me, around the table. Still smiling, she was about to hug me, I guess, but she never got the chance to.
Her eyes widened in response to something behind me, and she quickly stepped away.
I would find out why in about a second.
"Kyoooooon!~"
Chills went down my spine as I realized whose voice that was. I turned, to see the little girl in a red dress and those wacky wings in midair as she was pouncing me - Flandre Scarlet. Remilia's certifiably insane little sister.
Ah crap.
I didn't even have time to let out a sound, as she tackled me to the ground, hugging me. The wind was knocked out of my body as I slammed onto the floor - I found myself being grateful that the carpet was so soft and plush. Flandre's vise-like grip around my body made some loud pops and creaks in my bones. Memories of her crushing Alice's doll into dust bare-handed popped into my brain. I hoped I wouldn't be popping there.
"Kyon! Kyon I missed you!"
"Augh!" I struggled to speak. "Flan! Good to...see you too!"
Although my body didn't like her welcome, I was kind of glad to see this little vampire again. I knew then how Marisa felt that one time.
Her. Can't stop...thinking about her...
"Flan. Flan. You're going to break the poor boy apart. And he just got back."
I instantly recognized that voice. As Flandre released me, I got up as quickly as I could with Meiling helping me to my feet. I was eager to see her, the other vampire.
The Mistress of the Scarlet Devil Mansion. The Scarlet Devil. Remilia Scarlet.
She stood there at the entrance of the Library, smiling. There was genuine happiness in her eyes. And Sakuya! Sakuya was with her! Remilia slowly shook her head.
"Well well well. The prodigal son returns."
Grinning, I made my way around the table, stopping before Remilia and her maid. Sakuya kept her face as, well, I suppose "normal", like she was wearing her usual mask of servitude. Remilia turned to her maid.
"Sakuya, it's all right. No need to hold yourself back. By all means, go ahead."
Letting her emotions show, Sakuya rushed forward and hugged me.
"Ah Kyon. So good to see you again."
"Same here. Same here."
It started to hit me. How much I really missed everyone in Gensokyo. Especially Sakuya. The two of us were together pretty much all day that day we spent solving the incident where the spring of Gensokyo was stolen. You can't go through something like that together and not form a bond, right? She watched out for me, and I watched out for her.
"We've seen everything," said Sakuya, "Everything the Brigade went through. It's all true. It's all the little girl. And those people..."
She trailed off, staring into my eyes. I think I knew who she was referencing, those that tried to take away Haruhi's power for their own "God", about what happened a few months ago.
Kuyou, Fujiwara, Haruhi and I in that closed space...even now I don't want to think about it.
But...seen? I had to let that go.
"I'm so glad you're willing to fight for her."
Sakuya embraced me tighter for a second before releasing and taking a step back. Remilia then stepped forward, and the two of us locked eyes.
This little vampire. This eternally young twelve year old who is over 500 years old. It felt like an eternity of us just staring into each others eyes. I don't know exactly how long it was, but it was long enough. A smile crept on her face, as one on mine did as well.
I bowed before her. I felt like being over-the-top dramatic.
"Mistress Scarlet."
Grinning, Remilia hugged me.
"Ah, Kyon. That's quite the life you led for the past year and a half. Sakuya said it - we've seen it, thanks to Yukari."
Remilia rubbed her chin, her bright mood replaced with a puzzled look.
"While it is good to see you...you aren't supposed to be here. That's a mystery in and of itself, isn't it? I suppose you'd like for us to get you out of here, and get Yukari."
"Well, yeah, that's the idea."
Remilia looked mock offended. She pouted her lips.
"Oh, just got here and already wanting to leave? Are we really that repulsive to your senses?"
"No, just only when you drink my blood."
I said that without even thinking of it, even if it was true.
Remilia blinked a few times, before grinning.
"Ah, yes...well, that goes without saying." Remilia motioned for me to sit down at the table. "Come! Sit down and let's talk! Maybe we can get you something to eat before we get into the business of getting you back..." Remilia stroked her chin as she stared up into the darkness the high ceiling afforded the library. "Yes...Yukari... I can't believe she brought you back."
"She didn't, actually."
Remilia raised an eyebrow.
"Come again?"
"I was in a library in my world, and was walking through the aisles, and ended up here pretty much seamlessly. No portals, no gaps, no nothing. I just ended up here."
Before Remilia could respond, Flandre spoke up.
"Somebody is in here." Flandre said that out of nowhere, staring into a direction. I saw her flare her nostrils. "...and it's...different. It smells somewhat like a human...but it's not. It's not a youkai...but..."
Meiling got in front of the little Scarlet as if to shield her, the guard's body tensing.
"How...how did they get in?"
Remilia stepped next to her sister, narrowing her eyes in that same direction.
"Meiling. Sakuya. Go."
The maid and the chief guard moved quickly, Sakuya already drawing out her knives. Sakuya had kept on the ground, while Meiling had jumped to the top of the book cases, and was leaping from book case to book case. I noticed Koakuma move near Patchouli.
"Oh," sighed Koakuma. "I hope Miss Konpaku and Miss Saigyouji are all right."
I couldn't believe what I heard.
"What? Why?"
"They're in here, too. They needed a book, and we allowed them to look for it."
Oh wow. I'm going to get to see the two ghosts again! However, I was also scared, because the SDM had an intruder in the house.
Then again, why was I scared? I had two vampires in front of me, a magician and her summoned devil to my side, and Meiling and Sakuya out there looking for however the intruder was. If anything, I should feel sorry for the intruder. Especially since Flandre was there.
Sakuya had rounded a corner, readying her knife, but then she seemed to reel back in surprise at what she saw. She shot us an...an almost bewildered glance, before backing away. Meiling, on top of the bookcase that overlooked that aisle, seemed to do the same.
"Meiling! Sakuya! Who is it?" Remilia then paused, and I saw her nostrils flare. "...what in the world is that? I've never sensed anything like this. It has a heartbeat, but it's different. No. Wait. I have sensed this before. But only when I was with Yukar-"
Through one of the gaps in the bookcases, I saw her. I saw who it was in a brief microsecond, as did Remilia. She paused, before speaking.
"...Yuki Nagato?"
-login-
-please enter password and interface name-
-Nagato Yuki
-access granted-
-download detected-
-downloading files-
-download complete-
-data packet received-
-"hiede" iso file
-decompressing files-
-received:-
-"gensokyodata" text file-
-"gensokyohistory" text file-
-image folder "gensokyo" file count: 891-
-**CLASSIFIED FILE** [ADMIN 612]-
-video folder "springsnowincident" file count: 99-
-**CLASSIFIED FILE** [ADMIN 612]-
-**CLASSIFIED FOLDER** [ADMIN 612] file count: 189-
-reading-
-please hold-
-finished-
-downloading orders-
-orders received-
-personal entry-
-This individual entity would like to express "gratitude" over the sharing of information regarding Gensokyo. Personal Opinion: level of security surrounding this data suggests that the entity leaders have faith in me, and again, I express gratitude. Due to this individual entity's "malfunction" this past winter and the resulting notion of deletion, I, Nagato Yuki, express honor at the chance to gain favor with the leaders once more.
- Objectives received and understood.
-Will update the databanks with quick profiles of entity encounters in Gensokyo.
-Will acquire samples of various energy signals, magic, and anything else this entity deems necessary for the databanks.
-Will observe various entities of Gensokyo.
-Will attempt to further confirm the notion the Data Society has that Gensokyo is a product of Haruhi Suzumiya.
-[REDACTED - ADMIN NUMBER 612]
- Will take note with brief descriptions of the various locations in Gensokyo.
-UPDATE: Will study "Danmaku", and record any data acquired surrounding it.
-Will attempt to engage in Danmaku, if possible, for first hand experience and data.
-UPDATE: Personal comment-
-This individual entity expresses confusion over the redaction of the fifth objective in the records.
-Inquiry:
-Requesting an explanation, if one can be given.
-ADMIN UPDATE-
-Will be given in person. There is to be no record of the explanation.
-File upload detected from Admin 612:
-UPDATE-
-Displaying file:
"Spring Snow Incident"
- During the month of March and April, it appeared that there was a late winter occuring. The truth was far from it. Due to circumstances arising from interference by the Sky Canopy Domain, spring was not coming to Gensokyo. [NAME REDACTED] "Kyon" got involved and brought to Gensokyo, and he participated in this incident. Reimu Hakurei, Marisa Kirisame, Sakuya Izayoi, and [NAME REDACTED] "Kyon" all ventured out to find the cause of the late winter. After a brief investigation, and coming across Alice Margatroid, the four made their way to the afterlife realm for artists - Hakugyokorou, which had gathered the spring of Gensokyo. Defeating the Prismriver sisters Lunasa, Merlin, and Lyrica, the four then entered, taking on the gardener of the realm, Youmu Konpaku. It was there that the group learned of the threat contained within Hakugyokorou - the youkai tree Saigyou Ayakashi. The group then encountered, and defeated, the mistress of the realm: Yuyuko Saigyouji, where they returned spring.
-[PARAGRAPH REDACTED]
==RESOLVED==
-File Catelogued by Emiri Kimidori.
-end file-
-File received and read.
-Inquiry:
-Why wasn't I informed of this?
-Admin 612 Response:
-Data Entity YUKI NAGATO did not need to know of the events that transpired.
-N. Yuki
-end entry-
-logoff-
So, Cirno, I have to congradulate you.
Cirno: Really? On what?
On you getting into Touhou 14. Granted, you are a stage 1 midboss, but you're still as popular as ever! Oh, right. I also have something to tell you about this fan fiction. The views are OVER NINE THOUSAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAND!
Cirno: WHAT?! Nine Thousand? There's no way that can be-
Yukari: Stop right there!
Gasp! Yukari! What are you doing here?
Yukari: Ending that 9,000 meme before you can go any further with it!
*train*