A/N: This one took a while as have to double check the fight flow and choice of words. I think am satisfied at the results after a lot of revision. I also finally made an opening title track for the fic! I'd also recommend listening some of the music I made in Youtube during the fight, you can search for them by using the fanfic's title itself as links are not viable. I'd also recommend to see the images as in Ao3 as there is a lot of them in this chapter and I think the music can also be seen there. As always, thanks again for reading and any feedback is appreciated.

The clash between celestial steel and the war scythe of death had sent shockwaves through the silent forest, shattering the stillness with the fury of their battle. Sparks flew, the clash of their weapons echoing like thunder as Tenshi Hinanawi and Rain who is now called Certain Death, faced off in a deadly confrontation.

Rain's barely-contained fury had erupted, fueled by Tenshi's incessant taunts and her own bubbling rage, amplified by the lingering effects of the oni-like side she struggled to suppress. The celestial, ever the provocateur, had pushed her over the edge, daring to question her morality while mocking her strength.

But this wasn't just a fight. It was a storm—a clash of wills and raw power. Certain Death's sharp words, her sneering taunts, and the ominous aura that surrounded her painted her as the embodiment of death itself. And Tenshi, undeterred, met her head-on, her sword blazing with celestial determination as she refused to back down.

Behind them, Shion Yorigami stood frozen in the shadow of their battle, a witness to the chaos unraveling before her eyes.

The forest, so calm and still only moments before, now served as the stage for a fight that could alter fates. Sparks, blood, and raw emotion hung heavy in the air, promising that neither combatant would leave unscathed.

Rain's war scythe whirled through the air like a seasoned killer, its arc humming with an unnatural energy as it clashed against Tenshi's celestial blade. Sparks flew from the collision, lighting up the forest clearing in brief, flickering flashes. Tenshi gritted her teeth, pushing back against the raw force Rain brought down with every swing.

The celestial felt her muscles strain under the weight of each impact. Her opponent was relentless, each strike coming with the kind of precision and force that suggested centuries of combat experience. Rain wasn't just powerful—she was overwhelming, her movements a mix of calculated ferocity and unrestrained fury.

"You call that fighting?" Rain sneered, her voice dripping with venom as she pivoted, bringing her scythe around in a wide, arcing slash. "I've seen drunkards put up more of a fight!"

Tenshi barely managed to block, her arms trembling as the sheer force of the blow sent her skidding backward. Her boots dug into the soft earth, leaving long trails as she fought to keep her footing. The power behind that swing was no joke—if her timing had been even a fraction off, she'd have been cleaved in two.

The celestial tried to counter, lunging forward with her blade aimed at Rain's center. But Rain sidestepped effortlessly, spinning her scythe in a flourish that sent a gust of wind tearing through the clearing.

"Not bad for a celestial brat," Rain mocked, twirling the scythe with an almost mocking grace. "But let me show you what real power looks like."

She raised her scythe high, and with a flourish, the weapon seemed to split apart into fragments of spinning blades. Each fragment glowed faintly, orbiting around Rain like a swarm of deadly stars. Without warning, the blades launched forward in a barrage, hurtling toward Tenshi with terrifying speed.

Tenshi threw up her Keystone, manipulating the earth beneath her to rise in a protective wall. The spinning blades slammed into it, tearing chunks of rock and debris apart as Tenshi ducked behind her makeshift shield.

But Rain wasn't done. The broken chain on her left arm rattled ominously as she raised it, summoning spectral scythe-like projections from the air. They swirled around her like ghostly harbingers, each one poised to strike.

Tenshi's eyes widened. "You've got to be kidding me!" she muttered under her breath, darting to the side as one of the spectral blades slammed into the ground where she'd been standing.

The celestial retaliated, thrusting her blade forward and releasing a burst of energy that surged toward Rain. The attack struck true, catching Rain mid-movement and forcing her to stagger back slightly. But instead of faltering, Rain laughed—a dark, guttural sound that sent chills through the air.

"That's more like it," Rain growled, her crimson eyes blazing with an eerie light. "At least now you're trying."

Tenshi clenched her teeth, her breathing growing heavier as the duel dragged on. Despite her bravado, she could feel the difference in their strength. Rain wasn't just strong—she was overwhelming, each attack pushing Tenshi closer to her limit.

Shion, watching from the edge of the clearing, gripped her tattered sleeve tightly, her knuckles white. "Tenshi..." she muttered, her voice trembling as she watched the celestial struggle against the relentless onslaught.

Rain, sensing the faltering resolve in her opponent, pressed forward. Her scythe swung in a deadly arc, the force of it carving through the air with a sound like tearing fabric. Tenshi barely managed to block again, her arms trembling from the sheer impact.

"Is this really all you've got?" Rain taunted, her voice like the rasp of steel on stone. "You're making this way too easy, Tenshit."

Tenshi didn't respond, her eyes narrowing as she summoned every ounce of strength she had to push back. She knew she couldn't let Rain's words get to her—not now, not when the stakes were this high.

Still, deep down, she couldn't deny it. The strength Certain Death wielded was unlike anything she'd ever faced. And as the fight wore on, that strength was beginning to feel insurmountable.

Tenshi gritted her teeth as Certain Death's overwhelming strikes pressed her to her limit. Despite her seemingly flippant attitude earlier, she now realized she was facing an opponent who fought like a force of nature—a whirlwind of fury and precision that sought nothing less than to obliterate her. Her hands tightened on the hilt of the Sword of Hisou as she made a choice: it was time to stop holding back.

"Alright, you crazy bastard," Tenshi growled under her breath, her tone laced with determination. "Let's see how you handle this."

The celestial's grip on her blade shifted, and a faint, scarlet mist began to emanate from its edge. The Sword of Hisou gleamed ominously as it absorbed and converted the surrounding spiritual energy into raw power. The mist expanded outward, swirling around both combatants as it sought to analyze Rain's nature.

Rain noticed the shift immediately, her eyes narrowing as she saw the mist creeping toward her. She swung her war scythe, attempting to dispel it, but it merely coiled around her weapon and seeped into her aura like a living thing.

"What the hell is this?" Rain snarled, her voice edged with annoyance as the mist began to swirl faster.

Tenshi smirked, raising her blade high as it pulsed with scarlet energy. "You've got a lot of anger in you," she taunted. "Let's see what kind of storm that brings!"

The Sword of Hisou glowed brighter as it identified Rain's spiritual essence, converting the accumulated energy into a manifestation of her nature. The sky above them darkened almost instantly, the clouds churning as if stirred by an unseen hand. A low rumble of thunder rolled through the forest, and within moments, the heavens opened, unleashing a torrential downpour.

Rain froze for a moment, staring up at the storm that had seemingly appeared out of nowhere. The rain fell in heavy sheets, soaking the battlefield in seconds.

"What is this?" Tenshi muttered, her confident smirk fading as she noticed the oppressive atmosphere that accompanied the storm. This wasn't a normal rain—it felt heavy, suffocating, as if the very air was weighted with a malevolent force.

Shion, who had been watching nervously from the sidelines, hugged herself tightly as the rain drenched her. Her expression twisted in discomfort. "This… this feels wrong," she whispered, glancing at Tenshi. "What did you do?"

"I didn't—" Tenshi started, but her words faltered as she felt the weight of the storm settle around her. The rain wasn't just water; it carried a palpable sense of darkness, an echo of the overwhelming rage and sorrow that seemed to radiate from Rain herself.

Rain slowly lowered her head, her silver-white hair plastered to her face as the rain continued to fall. A dark smile curled her lips. "You wanted to see what I'm made of?" she said, her voice dripping with malice as she took a step forward. "You're looking at it."

The scarlet mist coiled around her like a second skin, merging with the oppressive aura that the storm had brought. The rain seemed to ripple with each word she spoke, its cadence growing heavier, almost deafening.

Tenshi tightened her grip on the Sword of Hisou, her confidence wavering. This wasn't what she'd expected. The storm she had summoned wasn't just revealing Rain's nature—it was amplifying it, turning the battlefield into a reflection of her inner chaos.

"You brought this storm," Rain said, her tone mocking as she raised her scythe. "You'd better pray you can survive it."

Tenshi's lips pressed into a thin line. She raised her sword, its edge glowing as it drew more energy from the scarlet mist. "Fine," she said, trying to mask her unease. "If that's how you want it, I'll cut through this storm and take you down with it!"

The two warriors clashed once again, their weapons meeting with a thunderous crack that echoed through the forest. The rain poured harder, the storm raging around them as their battle escalated, each strike shaking the ground beneath their feet.

From the sidelines, Shion watched in silent dread. She hugged herself tighter, her gaze flicking between Tenshi and Rain. "This isn't right," she muttered, her voice barely audible over the storm. "Tenshi, you have no idea what you've unleashed..."

As the storm reached its peak, the atmosphere seemed to shift, growing darker and heavier with each passing second. Rain's scythe gleamed ominously, her form wreathed in the crimson mist that had converged around her like a living entity. Her movements slowed for just a moment, and a palpable sense of menace filled the clearing.

Above her, as if summoned by the storm itself, a faint title seemed to hang in the charged air, an unspoken proclamation of the battle to come:

Certain Death [Harbinger of Finality]

The inevitability of the end, clad in wrath and shadow. A force of nature whose scythe carves paths through all who stand before it. To face her is to confront the very concept of mortality itself.

Tenshi, undeterred, tightened her grip on the Sword of Hisou, her celestial resilience refusing to falter. The rain battered against her, but her determination shone through. If this was the being she had to overcome, so be it.

Rain's lips twisted into a feral grin as she raised her scythe, her voice cutting through the roaring storm. "Come on, celestial brat. Let's see if you're as tough as you pretend to be!"

With a guttural cry, their weapons collided once more, the clash sending shockwaves rippling through the air.

The battle between Certain Death and Tenshi escalated. With a forceful step, Rain raised her war scythe high, her silver hair whipping in the now heavy downpour. As she swung her weapon, the air around her seemed to warp—three ethereal afterimages of her scythe materialized, each a deadly phantom that swiped in perfect synchrony.

In an instant, Tenshi's eyes widened as she faced the oncoming onslaught. The first scythe rushed toward her with immense speed, the air itself seeming to crack with the force of the strike. She dodged instinctively, but in that same motion, another scythe came from the opposite direction, slashing the space where she had just been. The third appeared moments later, closing in from above.

For a heartbeat, she saw only the swirling dance of the scythes, too quick to catch with normal vision. But then her sharp senses, honed from countless battles, kicked in. The scythes—two of them—were illusions, slight imperfections in the air's pressure, a mere distraction. The real one was behind her, thrusting forward with such precision that she barely managed to parry it with the Sword of Hisou.

"Not bad," Tenshi muttered, panting from the narrow escape. But she could feel the impact. The force behind that strike alone had left a stinging pain in her forearm.

Shion, from her position off to the side, recognized the pattern. She saw the slight distortions in the air around Rain. "She's using the illusions to mask the real attack. The scythes are all over the place, but only one is real!" Shion warned, her voice clear.

Tenshi nodded, tightening her grip on the Sword of Hisou. She didn't have the luxury of time to figure out which scythe was the real one. She had to act fast.

Before Tenshi could retaliate, Rain slashed downward with the real scythe in a vicious arc, the blade carving through the heavy rain like it was nothing. Tenshi barely blocked it, the force sending her stumbling back.

But as she recovered, she realized Rain wasn't finished. The scythe was followed by a surge of scarlet mist that seemed to come from nowhere, surrounding her in a suffocating veil of crimson.

"You'll need more than that to take me down," Tenshi growled, her voice steady despite the overwhelming assault. She raised the Sword of Hisou, the blade glowing with a pale, ethereal light.

She unleashed a flurry of strikes, each cut slicing through the mist like a blade through fog, but Rain's mirage scythes kept reappearing, shifting and striking in a dizzying pattern. Tenshi's vision blurred as she fought to keep up.

The battle raged on, the sounds of clashing steel and the rain pouring down relentlessly. Tenshi, her focus sharpened by Shion's words, lashed out with the Sword of Hisou, channeling the sword's power and spiritual energy into a single decisive strike aimed directly at Rain.

The sword collided with Rain's chest, its edge crackling with a strange, ethereal energy. The blow sent a shockwave through the air, and for a moment, it looked as if Rain might crumble. Her body jerked with the force of the attack, but to Tenshi's surprise, Rain didn't fall. Instead, she only flinched, her expression tightening with an expression that could almost be called a grimace.

Tenshi had expected more from her, maybe a bit of a struggle, or even to see her collapse. But no, Rain stood firm, her body a pillar of defiance.

Before Tenshi could recover her stance, the air around Rain seemed to warp once again, and in that same instant, a swift movement—a brutal kick—sent Tenshi hurtling backward. The force behind the strike was monstrous, like a tidal wave crashing into her, forcing her off balance.

"Shit!" Tenshi grunted as her feet slid across the muddy ground. She tried to dig her sword into the earth to regain her footing, but the impact sent her sprawling back, crashing into the earth with a heavy thud.

Shion, who had been watching from a distance, quickly moved forward, calling out, "Tenshi!" But Tenshi was already pushing herself to her feet, her face flushed with both anger and the sting of defeat.

"You… you little—" Tenshi spat, her voice laced with frustration, but before she could finish, she felt her spirit already boiling, ready to strike back.

Rain stood tall, scythe raised in her hand, the scarlet mist still swirling around her as she fixed her gaze on the downed celestial. Her expression twisted into something darker, a cruel grin forming as her body subtly shifted with the weight of anger.

"I warned you," Rain said coldly, the voice of someone who had become used to dealing death. "You really should've stayed down, fucker."

Tenshi gritted her teeth, wiping the rain from her face. "You think you're invincible, don't you?"

But Rain's response was an eerie, calm silence as she readied herself for the next move, her scythe poised for another attack. Tenshi didn't know how she'd get out of this, but she sure as hell wasn't going to let someone like Certain Death walk all over her.

The tension between them grew heavier as the rain poured in sheets, adding a sense of urgency to the brutal clash. Rain, unphased by Tenshi's strike, shifted her stance, her eyes narrowing with cold focus. The scarlet mist that surrounded her swirled and thickened, a tangible darkness lingering in the air, as if the very atmosphere had become her weapon.

Without warning, Rain slashed her scythe through the air in a sweeping arc. Almost immediately, a half-dozen smaller scythe projectiles shot forward, each one glinting with a deadly aura. They whistled through the air, moving with lethal precision, aiming straight for Tenshi's vulnerable spots.

But Tenshi, her gaze sharp and her reflexes honed, reacted swiftly. She dodged the first two with a roll to the side, narrowly avoiding their sharp blades, but the next set was more difficult. The scythes were too fast, and even with her strength, she couldn't avoid them all.

One of the mini scythes sliced through her sleeve, leaving a deep gash across her arm. Another grazed her cheek, blood streaking across her face as she winced.

"Dammit!" Tenshi cursed under her breath, her determination only growing stronger.

Rain didn't give her a moment to breathe. As soon as the scythes dissipated into the rain, she closed the distance, moving with uncanny speed. Her body moved like a blur, the weight of her scythe seemingly effortless as she swung it overhead, aiming a devastating strike at Tenshi's head.

The overhead strike was powerful, the force behind it enough to make the ground tremble beneath their feet. Tenshi could feel the wind of the attack as it descended, and she knew if she didn't react fast enough, the blow would cleave her in half.

With a grunt of effort, Tenshi raised her sword, trying to block the blow, but the weight of the scythe pushed her back, her feet sliding through the mud. The impact sent a shockwave through her body, and she felt the sting in her arms, the strain of trying to match Rain's strength.

She barely held her ground, gritting her teeth as the scythe pressed down against her sword, Rain's cold, dark eyes locked onto hers. "You're still standing? Impressive. But it won't matter much," Rain sneered.

Tenshi managed to break the deadlock with a quick twist of her wrist, her sword deflecting the scythe to the side, but she was already on the defensive. Rain's strength, the sheer ferocity of her attacks, was overwhelming.

"You're tougher than you look," Rain said, her voice a low, eerie whisper. She seemed to relish the challenge, as though every clash fueled her anger, her wrath. "But it won't save you from what's coming next."

Tenshi wiped the blood from her lip, her own anger starting to bubble up. This battle was far from over, but she was realizing just how deep into darkness Certain Death was willing to go.

Shion, watching from the sidelines, clenched her fists. She knew this wouldn't be an easy fight for either side, but she was starting to worry about what this Certain Death might do if she was pushed too far. She couldn't deny that Rain had a dangerous edge to her—a level of malice that made her a force to be reckoned with.

Hakurei Shrine

The storm seemed to come out of nowhere.

Reimu stood at the entrance of the Hakurei Shrine, her gaze fixed on the darkened sky as heavy rain began to pour. The change in weather was abrupt and unsettling, the once-clear skies now shrouded in oppressive clouds. Her instincts immediately kicked in, a feeling of unease creeping through her chest.

"Aunn," she said, her voice steady, though her eyes betrayed concern, "The weather's changed too fast. Something's not right."

Aunn, the white tiger youkai who had been lounging nearby, stood up with a low growl, eyes scanning the surroundings. The change was as unnatural as it was sudden. The heavy downpour combined with a strange pressure in the air had her on edge, her hair bristling.

Reimu's eyes narrowed. "If Rain is involved in this—" she didn't finish her thought, but her expression said it all. Her friend had a knack for getting herself caught up in dangerous situations. If there was trouble in the Forest of Magic, Reimu knew Rain would likely be at the center of it.

She turned quickly, brushing her hair from her face as the rain picked up in intensity. "I'm going to check on her," Reimu muttered, stepping away from the shrine and into the storm. Aunn nods and will stay behind as she will protect the shrine while Reimu is away.

Reimu's mind raced as she made her way toward the Forest of Magic. If Rain was there, there was no telling what kind of trouble she had stirred up this time.

Human Village

Marisa felt it before she saw it—the sudden shift in the air.

She was browsing through the materials in one of the village shops, picking up bits and bobs for her latest magical experiments, when the winds picked up sharply. The clouds rolled in thick and fast, turning the skies a deep shade of gray. The temperature dropped, and Marisa felt a chill running down her spine.

"Wha—?" She stopped, staring up at the storm. The dark clouds were swirling unnaturally, and the rain was coming down in sheets. Something was off.

Her first thought was of Rain. That girl had a way of attracting trouble, and Marisa couldn't shake the feeling that something bad was happening.

She dropped the materials in her hands, paying for them absentmindedly. "I gotta catch up with Rain. This doesn't feel right."

Her fingers twitched at her sides, almost instinctively reaching for her broom. She wasn't far from the Forest of Magic, and if Rain had gotten into some kind of mess again, she wouldn't be caught unprepared.

She kicked off from the ground, soaring into the rain-drenched air, her mind focused solely on finding her friend. Whatever was happening, she was certain it had something to do with Rain.

Alice's Home

Alice looked out of her window, a frown furrowing on her brow as the weather seemed to change suddenly, as if it had been conjured out of thin air. The sky darkened, the heavy rain pouring down in torrents. It was strange, even for Gensokyo's unpredictable weather.

She had been focused on her dolls as they prepare for the arrival of Rain and Marisa, but now her attention was drawn to the storm outside.

Curiosity pricked at her. She didn't know exactly what was going on, but something about this felt different. There was a tension in the air, almost as if the storm wasn't just a weather phenomenon but a sign of something bigger, something troubling.

Without thinking too much about it, Alice got up from her work table and moved toward the door. The weather wasn't something she usually let affect her, but this felt like it was connected to something significant.

She stepped outside, looking toward the horizon where the Forest of Magic stood. Whatever was happening, Alice could sense that she would likely need to get involved. It would be difficult to ignore whatever force was shaping the storm now.

"I'll take a look," she muttered to herself, as she began to walk toward the forest, keeping a cautious eye on the skies.

Rain's grin widened as she planted her feet firmly, raising her scythe and spinning it in her hand. With a sudden flick of her wrist, she hurled the weapon toward Tenshi, the massive blade spinning rapidly like a deadly buzzsaw. It tore through the rain-soaked air, creating a vortex of dark energy in its wake.

Tenshi managed to sidestep the projectile at the last moment, the scythe grazing past her and embedding itself into the ground a few paces away. Before she could regain her footing, the scythe shuddered and, with a sickening whistle, returned to Rain's outstretched hand like a predator answering its master's call.

Rain didn't stop there. With her scythe now glowing faintly, she began murmuring an incantation under her breath. The air around her grew heavier as a dense, ominous energy pooled beneath her feet. Black sigils formed on the ground, rotating and expanding outward. Moments later, four dark portals materialized in the air, their swirling depths radiating an unnatural chill.

From each portal emerged massive, skeletal hands wrapped in spectral chains. The hands moved with eerie synchronicity, clasping together above and around the battlefield, forming a shifting, almost cage-like structure. The chains rattled and groaned as the skeletal fingers flexed and coiled, the entire formation pulsating with dark energy.

Tenshi's eyes narrowed as she analyzed the formation. "A cage trap?" she muttered to herself, keeping her grip tight on the Sword of Hisou. "You're trying to box me in?"

Rain let out a low chuckle, shaking her head as the rain streamed down her face. "A cage? For you? No, no, Tenshit. You're not that lucky." Her voice dripped with mockery. "This isn't a trap. It's just a plaything."

As if to prove her point, Rain threw her scythe again. This time, as the blade reached the cage-like structure, it ricocheted off the skeletal hands with a loud clang, hurtling in a different direction. It bounced again and again, moving faster with each impact, the scythe becoming a blur of deadly motion as it pinballed across the area. Each collision sent sparks and shockwaves through the air, forcing Tenshi to move quickly to avoid being caught in its unpredictable path.

The sound of Rain's laughter cut through the chaos. She remained rooted in place, arms crossed, her crimson eyes glowing with an almost feral glee as she watched Tenshi maneuver through the onslaught. "Oh, this is too good. Dance for me, little celestial. Let's see how long you can keep dodging!"

Tenshi gritted her teeth, her frustration mounting. She had initially thought the cage was meant to pin her down, but it was clear now that Rain's intent wasn't to trap her—it was to create a deadly arena where the scythe could relentlessly hunt her. The skeletal hands and chains weren't a prison; they were obstacles meant to amplify the weapon's lethality.

Rain's laughter echoed through the storm as she watched Tenshi dart and weave through the chaotic barrage. "What's wrong, Tenshi? Can't keep up? Come on, I expected more from you! Or was your earlier bravado just hot air like the weather you toy with?"

Her scythe, now crackling with dark energy, continued its relentless assault, bouncing unpredictably as if it had a mind of its own. Rain didn't move to attack further; she stood back, her confidence growing as she observed the havoc her creation was wreaking.

As the skeletal hands continued to shift and flex, creating a chaotic web of obstacles, Shion's sharp voice cut through the din. "Tenshi! Those hands aren't invincible! Look at the chains—they're weaker at the base! You can break them!"

Rain's grin faltered, and her eyes snapped toward Shion. "You're getting real annoying, bitch," she snarled, her tone dripping with disdain. "Do me a favor and shut up before I chain you up next."

Tenshi smirked at Shion's observation. "Got it!" With a surge of determination, she swung the Sword of Hisou, its blade glowing with accumulated spiritual energy. The first strike cleaved through one of the chains binding the skeletal hands, shattering it into a cascade of ghostly fragments.

Rain's eyes widened as another strike from Tenshi severed a second chain, followed by a third, each swing causing the spectral formation to waver and weaken.

But it wasn't the destruction of her summoned construct that caught Rain off guard. As the final chain broke, a jolt of searing energy surged through her body, making her stumble. Her hand clutched at her chest as a faint, fiery glyph began glowing beneath her skin.

"W-What the fuck is this?!" Rain hissed, her voice laced with panic.

In her mind, the voice returned, sharp and urgent. "It's the seal! You've reached the threshold! Force yourself further or you will suffer the effect!"

Rain's face contorted in pain and anger as her knees buckled slightly. She gritted her teeth, trying to steady herself as the glyph's glow pulsed in rhythm with her racing heart. Her scythe trembled in her grip, its power flickering as her strength wavered.

Tenshi and Shion exchanged a glance, misinterpreting Rain's condition. "Looks like breaking those chains was the key," Tenshi said, her smirk widening. "You're not so tough without your little tricks, huh?"

Rain's head snapped up, her eyes burning with fury despite the visible strain on her body. "You think you did this? You're a bigger moron than I thought!" she spat, though the tremor in her voice betrayed her unease. "I'll—"

Her words were cut off as Tenshi seized the opportunity, rushing forward with the Sword of Hisou drawn. "Save your breath for when you're begging!" she shouted, the blade glowing scarlet as it sliced through the rain-soaked air.

Rain barely had time to react, her scythe coming up sluggishly to block the strike. The impact sent a shockwave through the area, forcing Rain to stagger back. Tenshi pressed the advantage, her strikes relentless and precise, forcing Rain onto the defensive for the first time.

"You're losing it, Death!" Tenshi taunted, her strikes unrelenting. "What happened to all that swagger? Can't handle a celestial after all?"

Rain growled, her voice ragged. "Shut up, you gopping little shit!" she barked, her defiance faltering under the pressure of Tenshi's assault. Each clash of their weapons sent vibrations through her weakened form, the glowing seal on her chest flaring brighter with each passing moment.

Rain's entire body tensed as she gritted her teeth against the burning glyph searing her chest. Her grip on the scythe tightened, and her eyes gleamed with raw defiance. The voice in her head hissed warnings, but she roared, "I'm not done yet!" Dark energy swirled around her as she forced the seal's influence into submission, her sheer will overpowering its weakening grip.

The flickering magic steadied, and her aura surged back to life with terrifying intensity. She batted away Tenshi's sword strike with her scythe and stepped in, slamming the celestial backward with a heavy kick.

Tenshi coughed, trying to regain her balance as Rain advanced. The air seemed to crackle with malevolence, her scythe gleaming like a reaper's promise. "I told you, Tenshit," Rain snarled, her voice dripping with venom, "Marked or not, you're dead. Time to carve your obituary into the sky!"

With a furious roar, Rain swung her war scythe in a deadly arc, dark energy trailing behind the blade like a shadowy inferno. Tenshi braced herself, her arms shaking as she blocked the attack with the Sword of Hisou. But Rain's strength was overwhelming. Tenshi's knees buckled, the celestial grit her teeth, desperately trying to hold her ground.

Rain loomed over her, a predator closing in for the kill. "Face it! You've lost!" she shouted, her scythe raised high for the final blow.

Before the blade could descend, a sudden crack of thunder split the air, followed by a blinding flash of light. A bolt of lightning struck Rain square in the face, hurling her backward with immense force. She let out a sharp cry as she was sent flying into the misty forest, disappearing into the haze created by the strike.

Tenshi, breathing heavily, lowered her sword and looked around in confusion. The mist swirled around her, hiding Rain from sight.

A composed, yet authoritative voice cut through the tension. "I knew it, you really are troublesome aren't you, Tenshi?"

Tenshi turned toward the sound, her eyes widening. "Iku! About time you showed up!"

Descending gracefully from the stormy skies, Iku Nagae's silhouette emerged, her long scarf trailing behind her as the mist parted around her. Her elegant yet commanding presence brought a moment of reprieve. "I've been tracking you, as Lord Nai ordered." Iku said, landing beside Tenshi. Her sharp gaze fell on the scorched ground where Rain had stood moments earlier. "It seems I arrived just in time."

Tenshi snorted, brushing off her bruises. "You could've come earlier. She's a real pain, this one. Nearly got me there."

Iku's eyes narrowed. "This isn't the time for arrogance, Tenshi. That person… she's no ordinary opponent."

"Yeah, no kidding," Tenshi replied, her hand clung to her sword tightly. "But we've got her on the ropes now. With you here, this should be a piece of cake."

Iku frowned, sensing the lingering oppressive energy in the air. "Don't underestimate her. That strike won't keep her down for long." Her eyes darted toward the mist, tension mounting as they waited for Rain's next move.

A faint groan echoed from the mist, followed by a sharp, biting remark. "That hurts," Rain growled, her voice carrying a venomous edge. The faint clinking of chains grew louder, then, without warning, a dark chain shot out from the haze, aiming to ensnare either Iku or Tenshi.

Iku sidestepped gracefully, her movements as fluid as water, while Tenshi deflected the chain with her Sword of Hisou. The chain retracted swiftly, disappearing back into the mist. The clinking continued, steady and foreboding, as if announcing Rain's resurgence.

From the dense fog, Rain emerged, her form altered yet again. Now both her arms bore heavy manacles, with short chains hanging from them, rattling with every step. But the transformation didn't stop there. Her armor had become more sinister, encasing nearly all of her body in an obsidian-black shell with jagged, black edges. Only her head remained uncovered, though her tattered cape, now the same dark hue as her armor, billowed ominously behind her, its ends frayed as if scorched by flames.

Iku's sharp gaze locked on Rain's face. Her mouth and nose… they were no longer flesh. What remained was skeletal, the bone gleaming unnaturally under the dim, rain-filled sky. Tenshi stiffened, gripping her sword tightly.

Rain touched her face, her fingers brushing against the exposed bone. Her eyes narrowed as she pulled her hand back, staring at it as if it had betrayed her. "What the fuck? My face!" she muttered, her tone cold and seething. Her hands moved to her cape, fingers tracing the torn edges. "And my cape—this was new! Today, of all days!" Her voice cracked with uncharacteristic frustration. "This was a gift!"

She stood there, fists trembling as the chains swayed from her arms, her body tense with a storm of emotions. 'What is this? Am I...? The thought struck her like a knife, deeper than any physical wound. She could feel the creeping encroachment of whatever force was changing her, piece by piece, stripping away what remained of her humanity.

There was no laughter this time. No triumphant jeers or mocking words. Instead, her eyes burned with a mixture of rage and despair. She gripped her war scythe tightly, but as she spun it in her hands, its shape began to shift. The weapon twisted and morphed, the long blade separating into two curved, deadly kamas linked by a dark chain. She swung them experimentally, the chain rattling as the weapons danced through the air with deadly precision.

Rain's voice broke the silence, cold and menacing. "This isn't how I wanted it to go... but fine. If this is how I'm going to look, might as well make it worthwhile."

The skeletal grin on her lower face twisted as her dark aura flared again. Chains rattled, and the rain seemed to grow heavier, beating down like the prelude to a catastrophic storm. She twirled the chained kamas with a deadly grace, her eyes locking onto her opponents.

"Well? Are you going to stand there gawking, or are we finishing this?"

Rain surged forward, the clinking of her chains echoing ominously through the rain-soaked forest. Her twin kamas spun in her hands, the chains connecting them rattling with every movement, creating an unpredictable, deadly rhythm. She lashed out with a ferocity that matched her frustration, her skeletal grin only adding to her now monstrous presence.

The first strike came without warning—a spinning kama whipped toward Tenshi with blistering speed, the chain snapping taut as Rain hurled the weapon. Tenshi ducked just in time, the blade slicing through the air above her and embedding itself in the ground. The chain pulled tight as Rain yanked it back, the kama whipping toward her hand before she launched the second one at Iku.

Iku's scarf moved like a living thing, unfurling and twisting into tendrils. It caught the incoming kama mid-air, coiling around it and holding it firmly. Iku grunted as Rain pulled hard on the chain, forcing a tense standoff as the two wrestled for control.

"Your tricks won't work here," Iku said coolly, her eyes narrowing as she sent another tendril of her scarf toward Rain's leg, aiming to trip her.

Rain smirked, her skeletal jaw giving the expression an even more sinister edge. "You think that'll stop me?" she growled. Her free kama lashed out, the chain extending like a whip to slash at the scarf holding her weapon. The blade's edge severed one of the tendrils, and she pulled the kama back with a triumphant snap.

Tenshi took the opportunity to slam her keystone into the ground. The earth beneath them rumbled, and a massive chunk of rock erupted from the ground, hurtling toward Rain like a battering ram.

Rain snarled, spinning both chained kamas above her head like a whirlwind. The weapons carved through the air, deflecting the keystone's attack in a shower of sparks and debris. "Nice try, celestial brat," she spat, her voice dripping with venom. "But you're gonna have to hit harder than that!"

Tenshi's eyes narrowed, her grip tightening on the Sword of Hisou. She charged Rain, using the keystone as cover, and swung her blade in a wide arc. Rain parried the strike with one kama, the chains clinking as she twisted the other toward Tenshi's exposed side.

Iku intercepted, her scarf snapping into a dense tendril that wrapped around the chain mid-swing. The tendril pulled taut, jerking Rain slightly off-balance. "You're fighting both of us now," Iku said, her voice calm but firm.

Rain let out a guttural laugh, spinning her body to add momentum as she yanked the chain free, pulling her kamas back into her grip. "Oh, I noticed," she said darkly, her chains swinging dangerously as she readied her next move.

With a sudden burst of speed, she spun the chained kamas in wide arcs, creating a deadly storm of steel around her. The weapons flew in erratic patterns, the chains lengthening and shortening unpredictably as she attacked from multiple angles. Tenshi raised her keystone as a shield, blocking one of the strikes, while Iku's scarf deflected another, but the sheer ferocity of Rain's assault forced them both onto the defensive.

Rain's voice rang out through the chaos, cold and bitter. "You think two against one is enough? You'll need more than that to stop me!"

The relentless clash continued, Rain's chained kamas lashing out like serpents, their deadly arcs leaving no room for error. Tenshi and Iku worked in tandem, but Rain's monstrous strength and unpredictable attacks made every second of the battle a harrowing test of skill and endurance.

Rain's body was battered, but she continued to fight on, her resolve as unyielding as her relentless attacks. The chains of her kamas whirled through the air, barely missing their targets as she struggled to keep up with the three opponents, each of them becoming more in sync with one another as the fight raged on.

Tenshi's keystone struck the earth with a thunderous crack, sending shards of rock flying toward Rain. She flinched, barely dodging one piece of debris, but the impact of another sent her tumbling backwards. The force knocked the wind out of her lungs, but she gritted her teeth, pain blossoming through her side. 'Dammit,' she cursed in her mind, pushing herself back up. Her chains rattled with every move, like a constant reminder of the curse she was under—of the monster she was becoming.

Shion, perched nearby, called out with an irritatingly calm tone, "She's struggling, but not quite broken yet. The so-called 'Certain Death' seems to have a surprising amount of fight left in her." Her voice rang out clearly across the battlefield, every word carrying the weight of a smug observation. "But she's clearly taking damage. I'd say another couple of hits will do it."

Rain's eyes narrowed, the contempt in her gaze directed at Shion. "Shut the hell up!" she roared, her voice edged with venom. "Don't get too cocky, you're not the one fighting!"

Iku took the opportunity to strike, her scarf snapping forward like a whip. Rain barely managed to raise her kama to block, the force of the strike pushing her off balance. She grunted, her legs buckling under the blow, but she refused to fall. Her teeth clenched in frustration. 'I'm not done yet.'

As she staggered back to her feet, Tenshi's sword flashed in the rain-soaked air, striking her across the shoulder, somehow it went through her armor. The cut wasn't deep, but it burned with the force of the blow. Rain let out a sharp breath, the pain flaring in her mind, but she refused to let it show. She spun her kamas around in a wild, retaliatory arc, the chains wrapping around the air with a deadly hiss. Her first strike glanced off Tenshi's shield of the keystone, the second one only grazing her side, but it was enough to make Tenshi take a step back.

"You're not so tough, are you, Certain Death?" Tenshi taunted, her tone filled with mocking amusement. "A few hits and you're already slowing down. You'll be finished soon."

Rain's gaze hardened. "You think that's enough to stop me?" She spun around, her chained kamas flashing through the air, narrowly missing Iku as the scarf twisted to deflect the strike.

But her movements were slowing, the pain from each blow beginning to take its toll. She flinched as another strike from Iku's tendrils whipped into her side, the blow knocking her off balance. It wasn't a direct hit, but the pain was enough to rattle her. Her chest heaved with every breath, and her vision blurred for just a moment. 'No. I can't lose here.'

"Hmm, she's starting to look a little worse for wear," Shion continued to announce, her voice cool and calculating. "I'd say one more hit will take her down. She's starting to fall apart."

"Shut up!" Rain snapped, her voice edged with a seething rage. She lashed out again with her kamas, but this time the chains barely even made contact with their intended targets. Tenshi, unfazed, swiped the Sword of Hisou at her, grazing her leg, again it cut through her armor like butter. The cut was deep this time, and blood began to trickle down her calf.

Rain staggered back, blood staining the ground beneath her. She gritted her teeth, refusing to let the pain show. "I'm not finished yet, you fuckers," she muttered, her voice low, barely more than a growl.

But Shion's voice rang out again, cold and analytical. "It's over, Certain Death. You're broken. We've got you now." Her words only fueled the fire burning in Rain's chest.

Her eyes flashed, and for a moment, she seemed to forget the pain. 'Broken?' The word echoed in her mind, mocking her. No. She wouldn't let them win. Not like this.

She pushed forward with everything she had left, her chains snapping with renewed energy, her attacks becoming more erratic, more desperate. But despite her will, she could feel herself slowing down, her strength waning with every hit she took.

'This is it,' she thought bitterly. 'What luck...'

And then—clink. Her chains rattled, her arms felt heavier, and the weight of it all suddenly seemed unbearable. Rain stopped mid-motion, her head dropping slightly as her body sagged. She couldn't stop it. The exhaustion was too much. She had fought too long.

The chains around her limbs rattled ominously, her breath coming in ragged gasps. As her body faltered, her scythe clattered to the ground. The rain kept falling, but now, the sound of the chains echoed like the ticking of a clock. And despite everything, despite the blood dripping from her wounds and the damage she'd taken, there was a cold, bitter smile playing on her lips.

"You'll regret this," she muttered, her voice a shadow of its former strength. "This fight isn't over yet."

The voice in Rain's head stirred, its dark presence seeping deeper into her consciousness. She could feel its twisted words coil around her thoughts, filling the emptiness that the battle had carved into her resolve. It had been watching, calculating, waiting for a moment like this. The cracks in her strength, the aching wounds, all served to drive her deeper into the abyss of her desperation. It could sense her need, and like a serpent slithering through her mind, it offered her a way out.

"Why not try that Kinjutsu you found?" the voice purred, its tone slithering through her mind like dark velvet. "The one that let's you summon a wraith like being to control. Imagine… the two of us working together. What fun that would be."

Rain's breath was shallow, her body heavy from the toll of the battle. She clenched her teeth, pushing through the pain, her focus wavering. The chains clinked as she shifted, half slumped, but not yet down. "Which one are you talking about?" she managed, voice hoarse, the flickering of hope still alive somewhere inside her.

"The Puppet Wraith Form, of course," it answered, its voice almost a mockery of gentleness. "It's perfect, isn't it? You'll have full control of your body still and a wraith to move through the battlefield, which I can guide. Two on three. What could go wrong?"

Rain's mind recoiled at the suggestion, but she felt the weight of it—felt the potential surge of power. She'd read about this technique, the dark art of summoning a specter, offering control, like a puppet of sorts. The risk was enormous, but so were the stakes. Her breath hitched as she nodded, more to herself than the voice.

"Fine," she muttered. "Let's do it."

A transparent portal opened before her as the chains around her arms rattled. With deliberate and steady movements, Rain performed the hand signs, each gesture adding to the weight of the spell she was about to cast. The energy surged, the air thick with dark power. Her body began to tremble, the strain of the spell starting to take hold as she prepared for what would follow. The portal swirled wider, and in a burst of dark energy, the wraith emerged.

It was a dark, ghostly form, its lower half missing, like a void in the shape of a human. The wraith was cloaked in an all-consuming blackness, its edges blurry as if it were made of the shadows themselves. Only its glowing red eyes shone through the darkness, burning with a malignant intent. It was the very essence of death, a reflection of Rain herself, but somehow more... otherworldly.

Rain's body froze for a moment as she relinquished control, allowing the wraith to take its place in the fight. For the briefest instant, it felt like losing a part of herself. Her vision blurred, and she could sense the wraith moving, its every motion foreign but familiar at the same time. It was as if she was no longer alone, as though her own dark essence had split into two. The wraith floated in the air, its movements fluid and unnatural, as if gravity had no hold over it. With a movement so swift it was almost imperceptible, the wraith extended a hand and took the scythe.

The scythe morphed in its hands, growing into an immense, deathly weapon, far larger than it had been before. The air around it crackled with the promise of destruction as the wraith poised it high.

"Let's see how they like this," Rain murmured softly, the words almost lost to the storm brewing around them. From her position, she began weaving dark fire magic, conjuring orbs of hellfire that burned with a malevolent intensity. They were faster, hotter, more destructive than the fire any normal mage could summon. She let them fly, raining them down on Tenshi, Iku, and Shion, her power an invisible support to the wraith's vicious assault.

The wraith slashed through the air with its oversized scythe, each strike an overhead arc filled with an unnatural speed and strength. Six dark illusions materialized alongside it, mimicking the scythe's movement and adding to the chaos. Each illusory strike appeared to be real, threatening to strike down their enemies, while the wraith itself darted through the air, an agile, deadly blur.

But then, for just a moment, Tenshi's gaze caught something. Amidst the chaos of their battle, a fleeting glimpse of something darker, something deeper—puppet strings.

For the briefest of moments, she saw them. Thin, almost invisible threads of shadow, connecting the wraith's form to something else. A massive, grotesque shape emerged from the shadows just as a bolt of lightning split the air—its form distorted and gigantic. The threads ran from the wraith to this new presence, like a marionette master pulling its strings. The snake-like form, an ominous, twisting creature, seemed to glow with a sickly, otherworldly light, as though it were alive, yet not of this world.

Though she has no idea what could that mean if she were to know the book of God it is similar to a certain scene—An ancient being whispering in the shadows, pulling the strings of a fallen figure, guiding them as they followed without question. It was like how Eve was, listening to the serpent, her eyes clouded with a kind of blindness, lost to the false promises of power. Similar to the voice that Rain had spoken to. No doubt it is evil but none of them would know about it as of now.

As the wraith attacked again, the snake-like entity writhed in the background, its immense form lurking just out of view. Rain's fireballs continued to rain down, the wraith moving faster than ever, its scythe cutting through the air with deadly precision. Every move was supported by Rain's magic, and together, they were an unstoppable force.

"You've made a mistake," Rain said with a grim smile, her voice dripping with cold malice. "Now, to even the score."

Tenshi, Iku, and Shion could only brace themselves as they faced not one, but two foes in this terrifying new battle.

The storm raged overhead, rain pouring down in torrents as the battlefield became a chaotic blend of flashes and shadows. Lightning crackled across the sky, illuminating the figures locked in combat. Amidst the chaos, the wraith moved with eerie grace, its form a blur of darkness as it summoned forth flying skulls that burst into flames, their fiery explosions lighting up the sky for split seconds. The wraith itself seemed like an unstoppable force, every attack precise and relentless, as if it had no need for rest or hesitation.

Rain then zipped across the battlefield, her movements fast, like teleportation, almost impossible to follow. She danced through the chaos, narrowly avoiding strikes from Iku's tendrils and Tenshi's oncoming sword, her body a blur of shadow and fire. Her every movement felt like it was a step ahead of them, but in reality, she was simply too fast to catch.

With a swift gesture, Rain cast a spell—a dark force swirling from her outstretched hands. It yanked at the very air, pulling her enemies toward her. She just stands there as she channels this spell, her eyes glinting with malice. In the midst of the chaos, the wraith launched the massive scythe through the air, its blade glinting as it spun toward their enemies, swooshing through both the rain and air. The moment the scythe reached them, it was a close call—Tenshi, Iku, and Shion managed to break away just in time, the scythe grazing past them, narrowly avoiding the blow.

"Not fast enough!" Rain taunted, her voice dark and mocking as she appeared a few steps behind them. She smiled as she saw Tenshi charge forward, her sword raised high. But Rain was already several steps ahead, and the moment Tenshi swung her sword, it wasn't Rain who was struck.

It was the wraith.

The moment Tenshi's sword came down, the wraith's dark form seemed to flicker, a blur as it swapped places with the real Rain. Tenshi's sword struck nothing but air, and in that moment, the wraith lashed out with its own weapon, the massive scythe aimed right at Tenshi. It was a casual strike at first, a slow, almost languid motion. The wraith's glowing red eyes locked on her, a grin playing at the edge of its ghostly lips as it charged the scythe with dark power. The blade glinted in the dark sky, catching the light for just a moment, before it arced toward Tenshi with an undeniable force.

Tenshi's eyes widened. She leaped back just in time, narrowly avoiding the scythe's deadly strike. The ground beneath her feet cracked as the force of the blow caused the air itself to tremble.

Rain's eyes narrowed, her gaze flickering back to the battlefield as she focused on summoning more of her power.

With a series of dark gestures, she opened the familiar portals once again, and the four chained skeletal hands emerged from the depths of the void. But this time, they were not for creating barriers or cages. They reached forward, with purpose, each one moving with an increasing sense of speed, targeting one person in particular.

Shion.

The skeletal hands shot out toward Shion, each one closing in on her limbs. She dodged at first, but the hands grew faster, relentless in their pursuit. With each attempt, they seemed to draw closer, the rattling of chains filling the air as the hands closed in. Shion gritted her teeth, her movements sharp, but the chains were too fast, and in a split second, one of the hands wrapped around her ankle, pulling her off balance.

"Shion, move!" Iku shouted, her voice urgent.

But Shion couldn't escape. The hands grabbed at her legs and arms with impossible strength, lifted her up in the center of the four portals that met, restraining her completely. She struggled fiercely, but the chains had a grip like iron, tightening around her as they slowly pulled her.

"No!" Tenshi shouted, her eyes wide with desperation as she watched Shion get restrained, the chains now gripping her arms and legs with relentless force. "I won't let you!"

The wraith hovered near Shion, its form floating effortlessly as it hovered over the struggling figure. Its glowing red eyes fixed on Shion with an unsettling calmness. As it drew closer, its hands curled around the massive scythe. "I see it," it hissed, its voice thick with dark delight. "I see her soul…"

Before Shion could cry out, the wraith raised its weapon high, preparing to deliver a fatal blow. It's eyes flared in red.

But before the wraith could strike, Tenshi's eyes burned with determination. She charged forward, her sword raised high, her body fueled by anger and urgency. "Get away from her!" Tenshi screamed.

With a quick swipe of her sword, Tenshi aimed to sever the chains holding Shion, but the hands only grew tighter, and the chains seemed to resist. Her sword collided with them, but instead of breaking the chains, it sent a shockwave of energy surging through the air.

Iku, too, dove into the fray. Her tendrils lashed out, striking at the skeletal hands, but they were like steel, unyielding. The lightning she summoned crackled in the air, but it did little to deter the hands from their pursuit. Together, Tenshi and Iku worked furiously to break the chains, but they were getting slower, the skeletal hands growing more and more relentless with each passing moment.

The wraith hovered just out of reach, its scythe pulsing with dark energy. "The soul is so close," it whispered, as if savoring the moment before the final strike. Its eyes glowed brighter, and it lowered the scythe toward Shion's chest. "Your soul is mine."

Tenshi's eyes burned with fury. With one final swing, her sword cut through the air, but the chains had already taken hold, and the wraith was about to strike.

Then, in the blink of an eye, a sudden bolt of lightning shot from the sky, and everything seemed to freeze. Iku's tendrils struck again, and with a final push, Tenshi's sword cleaved through one of the hands, shattering it to pieces. The other three hands staggered, their grip loosening just long enough for Shion to break free.

"Shion!" Tenshi cried, grabbing her hand and pulling her back.

Shion gasped for air, her body trembling, but she was alive. The wraith hissed in frustration as its grip on Shion was broken. It raised its scythe in fury, but the damage was done. The chains retracted, the skeletal hands retreating back into the void from which they came.

The storm raged on. The battle wasn't over.

The clash of darkness and light, of shadow and power, reverberated across the battlefield. Rain, her body racked with the weight of her transformations, her movements a symphony of suffering and fury, had fought tooth and nail against the trio of Iku, Tenshi, and Shion. Each blow, each strike, each spell cast by her was a testament to her unyielding will, but even she could feel the toll. Yet, as the moments passed, Shion, with a sharp eye, noticed something that made her voice tremble in realization.

"Her attacks may not be as strong... but we're still hurting her." Shion's words were filled with an unsettling revelation. The relentless barrage was taking its toll on Rain, the dark armor cracking under pressure, the dark cape fluttering wildly in the storm's rage.

Iku narrowed her eyes, her gaze cold and calculating. She had seen enough of the patterns in Rain's movements. The storm intensified, the air crackling with power as Iku summoned her divine energy, her fingers outstretched toward the heavens. Crackling arcs of white lightning exploded from Iku's outstretched hands, surging through the air like vengeful bolts from the sky. It struck Rain directly, a crackling force of divine energy. The light seared through her dark form, splitting her defenses wide open.

The moment it hit, a sharp, guttural cry ripped through the air as the dark knight's form flinched violently. It was like being struck by a thousand volts of electricity—her entire body trembled, and the dark aura seemed to flicker, pulsating in agony. Certain Death howled in pain, a sound that mixed with the storm's ferocity. It was the first time they'd heard anything like it from her.

"AAHHHHH!" Rain shrieked, her voice laced with the agony of the electric current coursing through her, the sound unmistakable as if she were being electrocuted and as if she were being zapped by the very heavens themselves.

She staggered back, trying to regain her composure, but the holy lightning had left a mark. Her movements were uncoordinated, like her very being had been torn apart. The wraith-like form flickered and twitched, as if it was about to vanish entirely.

"She's... stunned!" Iku shouted, her eyes bright with victory.

Tenshi saw the opportunity and didn't hesitate. She charged forward, sword raised, and without a moment's hesitation, plunged it deep into the heart of Certain Death's chest. The blow rang out, the sword sinking through the armor like it was paper, and the dark aura surrounding her began to dissipate.

For a brief, hopeful moment, it seemed as though the battle was over. The wraith form disintegrated, fading into mist as Tenshi's sword remained lodged in the chest of Certain Death, her body now lifeless on the battlefield.

Tenshi then pulled the blade free and stood over her fallen foe, watching as the dark energy faded away.

"We've won," Tenshi said, her voice quiet but triumphant.

But as she spoke, the ground trembled, and a dark wave erupted from Certain Death's body. The air thickened with an overwhelming pressure, and in that instant, the storm seemed to roar back into life with a vengeance. Certain Death was still alive, and this time, she was not the same.

Her body rippled, shifting violently as the dark energy surged. The space around her distorted with an unnatural force.

"I'm not... done!" Rain growled, her voice hoarse, filled with rage and pain.

With a scream, she focused every last ounce of strength into a devastating pulse, knocking Tenshi back with violent force. The dark waves surged around her, swallowing her entire form as the rain battered the battlefield harder than ever before.

And then, when the storm began to settle, the world seemed to hold its breath.

What emerged from the shadow of the storm was a new form—one that was terrifying and overwhelming. Certain Death was now fully armored, a dark knight encased in impenetrable black armor that seemed to shimmer with an otherworldly darkness. Her cape, once a tattered remnant, was now a perfect extension of her form, black as night, billowing in the storm's wake. The only thing visible beneath the helmet were her glowing eyes—red and filled with a bloodthirsty rage.

Iku stared in horror, a chill running down her spine. "She's—she's relentless," she whispered. "Is this what Certain Death is truly capable of?"

Tenshi, still struggling to regain her footing, wiped the blood from her mouth, her expression both incredulous and terrified. "We can't let her get the upper hand again—"

But it was already too late. Rain's presence was a force unto itself, her dark aura suffocating, her power amplified to unimaginable levels. The battle that had already taken so much from both sides now seemed like an impossible uphill struggle for Iku and Tenshi. Despite their best efforts, it was clear. Certain Death was too powerful. It wasn't a fair fight anymore.

Iku, already winded from the earlier fight, barely had time to react before Rain's scythe came swinging through the air. Tenshi tried to raise her sword to block, but the force behind the blow was too much. Iku, too, tried to intervene, her tendrils lashing out to halt the strike, but Rain's speed and precision left them no room to move.

The first blow sent Iku crashing to the ground, her body slamming against the wet earth with a sickening thud. She didn't move after that.

Tenshi was next, her attacks slow, desperate. But Rain was too much, too powerful. She was on her, in an instant, her scythe raised high. With a final, brutal swing, Certain Death's scythe cleaved into Tenshi's shoulder, sending her tumbling to the ground. Her body lay there, a mess of bruises and blood, her breath coming in ragged gasps. Her sword fell from her hand, and she was left trembling, defeated, and terrified.

In a moment, both were on the ground, their will to continue shattered. Tenshi sat on the cold earth, gasping for breath, her body too battered to move. Fear gripped her chest, her wide eyes staring up at the dark figure above her. She had failed. They all had.

But Shion was still there, standing firm despite the odds. Her resolve had not wavered. She charged forward, stepping in front of Tenshi's body, ready to fight until the very end.

"You can't have her!" Shion cried, but her voice trembled with fear.

Tenshi looked up, wide-eyed, as Shion stood there, arms raised in a futile attempt to block Certain Death's wrath. "Shion! What are you—?" Tenshi gasped, barely able to lift her head.

"I won't let you take her!" Shion cried, her voice full of determination. "Not while I'm still standing!"

That gave Iku a moment to regain her footing, but it was a brief respite.

Rain's eyes narrowed behind her dark visor. With no hesitation, the scythe came down, the blade glowing with a deathly radiance. It was the end of the line for Shion, the final strike about to fall but before she could, a sharp blast of magic hit her from behind stopped her.

The magician had arrived, her broom slicing through the storm like a bullet, and she unleashed a volley of magic that forced Rain to stagger backward. The impact rattled Rain's form, but she didn't fall.

"That's ENOUGH!" Marisa's voice rang clear through the storm, followed by a series of talismans flying through the air. The moment they hit, the air seemed to crackle, binding Certain Death's limbs in place with enchanted seals.

Before she could react, paper talismans—bright and glowing—wrapped around her body, binding her in place. Her movements were restricted as the talismans sealed her into place.

Reimu, standing at Marisa's side, added her own force "We're taking it from here. Get out of here, now!" Her voice was commanding, but her gaze was sharp with urgency. Her hands then outstretched as she summoned more talismans to tighten their grip.

Alice arrived just behind Reimu, her eyes wide as she took in the scene but she remained silent.

Iku, still struggling to rise, looked at Tenshi with a pained expression. "We have to go. If we don't, this will only get worse. You've seen what she can do." She took a step back, feeling her strength waver. "This is our only chance. We can't afford to stay."

Shion grabbed Tenshi's arm, pulling her. "We have no choice," she said quietly, her voice hoarse. "We can't win this one. Let's go."

With one last glance over her shoulder, Tenshi's face twisted in regret, but she nodded. They made their way out as the magical talismans continued to bind Certain Death, struggling against her strength.

"No! This isn't over!" Certain Death's voice rang out, filled with rage. She fought against the magical seals, thrashing in an attempt to break free. "WE'LL MEET AGAIN!"

But they were already gone, disappearing into the distance, leaving Certain Death to scream in the storm.

Iku, Tenshi, and Shion had escaped—literally and figuratively—from certain death. Certain Death was left in the chaos, her fury a maelstrom that raged against the bonds holding her.

The battlefield quieted in the wake of the trio's retreat, leaving only the sound of rain pattering against the broken earth and the occasional rumble of thunder in the distance. Rain remained bound by the talismans that Reimu had summoned, her dark aura dimmed but not entirely extinguished. Her armored form heaved with heavy breaths, her glowing red eyes narrowing as she glared at the three figures before her: Reimu, Marisa, and Alice.

Marisa broke the silence first, stepping forward cautiously, her voice laden with disbelief. "It's you, isn't it?" She squinted, taking in the imposing armor and the faint traces of Rain's familiar silver-white hair beneath the helmet. "Rain... it is you, ze."

Alice, standing slightly behind Marisa, spoke next, her tone tinged with both concern and frustration. "What happened to you? This... this isn't the Rain we know." Her gaze flicked over the dark scythe, the sinister aura still lingering in the air. "How did you become... this?"

Earlier...

The dense canopy of the Forest of Magic dripped with the remnants of rain, the storm's fury still lingering in the atmosphere despite the worst of it having passed. Reimu Hakurei moved swiftly through the uneven terrain, her sharp eyes scanning for any sign of the disturbance. The shrine maiden's mind was a storm of its own, the unsettling sensation she had felt at the shrine leaving her with an ache that wouldn't dissipate. The ominous clash of power in the distance only solidified her fears.

Her footsteps is heard against the damp forest floor, the sound drowned out by the occasional roll of thunder. Suddenly, a familiar figure darted into her path, nearly colliding with her.

"Marisa!" Reimu snapped, stepping back to avoid the impact.

"Whoa, watch it, ze!" Marisa Kirisame exclaimed, coming to a sudden halt. Her expression that the same as she noticed the grim look on Reimu's face.

"What are you doing here?" Reimu demanded, her tone laced with irritation. "I told you to keep an eye on Rain!"

Marisa winced, rubbing the back of her head. "Yeah, about that... I kinda lost track of her. She said she will head ahead to Alice's house."

"You what?" Reimu's voice rose, a mixture of frustration and worry. "You were supposed to keep her out of trouble! Do you have any idea what's happening right now?"

"Of course I do!" Marisa shot back, adjusting her witch hat. "I felt it too, you know. That's why I'm here. Something's seriously off."

Reimu pinched the bridge of her nose, exhaling sharply. "You think? I've been running through this forest trying to figure out what's going on, and now I find you on the same situation, if only you kept your eyes on her."

Before Marisa could retort, a third voice interrupted.

"Reimu, Marisa."

Both women turned to see Alice Margatroid approaching, her expression calm but tinged with curiosity. On her shoulder, Alicia sat and her doll Shanghai is floating silently by her side.

"What's going on here?" Alice asked, glancing between them. "I sensed something unusual and thought it might be worth investigating. Judging by your expressions, I assume this disturbance is connected to Rain?"

Reimu's frown deepened. "We're not sure yet. But if it is... it's worse than we thought."

"Great," Alice muttered. "I leave you two alone for some time, and chaos breaks loose."

Marisa scowled. "Hey, don't pin this on me. Rain's—well, she's unpredictable, okay?"

"She's your friend," Reimu reminded her, shooting her a pointed look.

"Yeah, and she's your guest and friend, ya know?" Marisa countered.

Alice sighed, stepping between them before their argument could escalate. "Enough. If Rain is involved, arguing about who's responsible won't solve anything. Let's find her first."

Reimu and Marisa reluctantly nodded, and the three of them continued forward, the oppressive atmosphere of the forest growing thicker with every step.

As they neared the source of the disturbance, the sounds of battle grew clearer—clashing metal, bursts of energy, and faint cries of exertion echoing through the trees. The trio slowed, their expressions shifting from frustration to shock as the battlefield came into view.

"What in the world..." Marisa murmured, her voice trailing off.

Amid the clearing, a figure clad in dark armor loomed over two battered opponents. Chains clinked ominously around her arms, and some of her silver-white hair cascaded down her back like a ghostly shroud. The figure raised a massive scythe, the weapon gleaming with an unholy light as she prepared to deliver the final blow.

"That's..." Reimu's breath caught as her sharp eyes focused on the figure's glowing crimson gaze. Recognition struck her like a bolt of lightning. "Rain?"

Marisa's jaw dropped. "You're kidding me. That's Rain?"

"It's her," Alice confirmed, her tone laced with disbelief. "The hair, the eyes... there's no mistaking it."

"But what is she doing?" Marisa asked, her voice rising with panic.

Reimu's hands tightened into fists. "Stopping her before it's too late."

Without another word, she leapt into the clearing, her gohei drawn and ready. Marisa and Alice exchanged a worried glance before following close behind.

Present...

Reimu said nothing at first. She stood still, her hands still raised as she maintained the seals binding Rain. Her sharp eyes, however, betrayed the turmoil within. She had already pieced it together—the resemblance was undeniable. This was no imposter. This was her friend, twisted into something darker, something almost unrecognizable.

Rain let out a bitter chuckle, her voice distorted by the helmet but carrying a trace of her usual sarcasm. "What's the matter? Didn't expect to see me like this? Surprise." Her tone was biting, yet underneath it was a raw edge, a faint crack that betrayed her true feelings.

Marisa clenched her fists, her usual bravado faltering as she glanced at Reimu. "Rain, what the hell are you doing? Why... why are you like this? This isn't you!"

Alice added, her voice softening, "You're scaring us."

Rain's laugh came again, harsher this time. "Scaring you? You should be scared. You saw what I just did, didn't you? I almost—no, I could've—killed them. And for what? Because I lost control." She shook her head, the talismans rustling against her armor. "What's stopping me from doing the same to you?"

Reimu's grip on her purification rod tightened, her expression hardening. "You wouldn't."

"Wouldn't I?" Rain snapped, her voice sharp. She struggled against the bindings, though her movements were weak. "You don't know that, Reimu. I don't even know that."

Marisa's voice cracked slightly as she stepped closer. "Stop saying that! You're still you, Rain. We can fix this—"

"Fix this?" Rain interrupted, her voice rising in frustration. "You don't fix something like this. I'm not just broken—I'm corrupted." Her glowing eyes dimmed slightly, her voice dropping to a near whisper. "I'm already beyond saving."

The three women exchanged glances, their worry deepening as they saw Rain's shoulders slump, the weight of her own words seeming to press down on her.

Then Rain spoke again, her voice quieter now, but each word deliberate. "Reimu... do it."

Reimu blinked, confused. "Do what?"

Rain raised her head, her red eyes piercing through her visor. "You know what I mean. Do it now. End this. End me." Her tone was calm, almost resigned. "Before it's too late. Before I turn my blade on you next."

Marisa froze, her eyes widening in horror. "What the hell are you saying, Rain? That's insane!"

Alice's voice wavered, a rare tremor of emotion breaking through. "You can't seriously be asking for that. Rain, stop. We can help you."

But Rain shook her head slowly, her movements deliberate. "No, you can't. You don't understand. This... thing inside me, it's taking over. If you don't stop me now, the next time this happens, I won't hesitate. I'll... I'll destroy everything. Everyone." Her voice cracked on the last word, and for the first time, a flicker of vulnerability shone through the dark exterior.

Reimu's grip on her purification rod tightened further, her knuckles white. Her lips pressed into a thin line as she stared at Rain. The weight of the decision loomed over her like the stormclouds above. She had always been the one to make the tough calls, to act when no one else could. And now her friend—her friend—was asking her to do the unthinkable.

"I can't..." Reimu started, her voice barely above a whisper.

Rain's head tilted slightly, her glowing eyes narrowing. "You can't? What do you mean, you can't? You're the Hakurei shrine maiden! You're supposed to protect Gensokyo, no matter the cost. Isn't that what you always say?"

Reimu's hands trembled slightly as she lowered them, her purification rod dipping toward the ground. "I protect Gensokyo by saving it. Not by... by giving up on people."

"People?" Rain let out a bitter laugh. "I'm not 'people' anymore. I'm a monster, Reimu. And you know it. Besides I do not belong here..."

"Maybe you think that," Reimu said, her voice firmer now. "But I don't. Not yet. Not while you're still standing here, asking me to stop you."

Marisa stepped forward again, her voice wavering but determined. "You're still Rain. You're still our friend. And we're not giving up on you, no matter how much you want us to."

Rain's fists clenched, the talismans binding her creaking slightly under the pressure. "You don't get it! I'm trying to protect you! If you don't end this now, I'll—"

"You'll fight us," Reimu interrupted, her voice steady. "And we'll fight back. And we'll win. Because that's what we do, Rain. We don't just give up on each other."

Rain stared at her, the red glow in her eyes flickering like a dying ember. Her voice, when it came, was soft, almost broken. "You're making a mistake."

Reimu shook her head. "Maybe. But it's my choice to make."

The rain continued to fall, soaking them all as the tension lingered in the air. Rain finally let out a long, shuddering sigh, her head dipping forward. The talismans binding her dimmed slightly as her aura began to recede, her resistance fading.

"I don't deserve this," she muttered. "I don't deserve any of you."

Marisa crouched down slightly, trying to catch Rain's hidden gaze beneath the helmet. "Well, too bad, ze. You're stuck with us."

Rain didn't respond, but for a moment, she stopped struggling. The glow of her eyes dimmed further, the overwhelming darkness around her subsiding. Reimu lowered her purification rod entirely, taking a cautious step closer.

"This isn't over, Rain," Reimu said quietly. "We'll figure this out. Together."

Rain remained silent, her head bowed as the rain continued to fall. For now, at least, the storm within her had calmed.

Her trembling frame remained bound by the talismans as Reimu, Marisa, and Alice stood before her, the tension in the air palpable. Her dark aura flickered like a guttering flame, weakened by the confrontation and her own emotional exhaustion. For a moment, all was still, save for the steady patter of rain and the distant rumble of retreating thunder.

The black armor that had encased her began to crack and crumble, wisps of shadow peeling away like leaves caught in a gentle breeze. The heavy scythe she once wielded dissolved into the air, its ominous presence fading into nothingness. The dark cape disintegrated, and the glowing red eyes beneath the helmet dimmed until only faint embers remained. Piece by piece, the imposing visage of Certain Death gave way to a more familiar form.

As the last fragments of the armor dissipated, Rain's long, silver-white hair fell loose, cascading down her back. Her crimson eyes softened slightly, though they still carried a faint glow. She stood there in her usual attire, her breathing labored but steady.

The rain slowed, the droplets growing lighter until they finally ceased altogether. Above, the storm clouds parted, revealing a pale blue sky and the first rays of sunlight breaking through. The sudden change was natural, the aftermath of Tenshi's weapon fading from influence as its wielder fled too far for its effects to linger. The warm light bathed the battlefield, the glistening raindrops on the broken ground sparkling like diamonds.

Rain exhaled heavily, her shoulders sagging as she looked at her three friends. Despite everything, they remained steadfast, their expressions a mixture of relief and cautious hope.

She chuckled weakly, her voice barely above a whisper. "You're... such idiots..." She swayed slightly on her feet, her strength clearly waning. Her lips curled into a faint, wry smile. "...But... I like it."

With that, her legs gave out, and she collapsed forward. Reimu, quick to react, caught her before she hit the ground. Rain's head lolled against Reimu's shoulder, her silver-white hair damp and clinging to her face. Her crimson eyes flickered once before closing, her body finally succumbing to exhaustion.

Marisa crouched down next to Reimu, her hands trembling slightly as she reached out to brush a strand of hair from Rain's face. "She's out cold," she said softly, relief mingling with worry in her tone.

Alice stood nearby, her arms crossed as she surveyed the scene. Despite her usual stoic demeanor, there was a hint of tenderness in her gaze. "She used everything she had. No wonder she couldn't keep standing."

Reimu sighed, shifting Rain's weight slightly to support her better. "She's alive. That's what matters. For now."

The sun shone brighter as the storm fully dissipated, casting a warm glow over the battlefield. The tension from moments before seemed to melt away, replaced by a fragile calm. The three women stood together, Rain's unconscious form cradled in Reimu's arms, the weight of what had just transpired settling over them like an unspoken truth.

For the first time since the battle began, it felt like hope was possible.

The sky above Bhavaagra was a pale, endless expanse of blue, the golden rays of sunlight gleaming gently over the summit of the Youkai Mountain. It would have been a serene sight, one befitting Heaven, but the trio flying toward it was far from at peace.

Iku Nagae led the group, her movements deliberate yet strained. She glanced back occasionally to check on Tenshi Hinanawi and Shion Yorigami, both of whom were clearly struggling. Tenshi's normally pristine attire was torn and bloodied. Shion clung to Tenshi's arm to support her, her pale complexion even more ghostly than usual. None spoke, their exhaustion muting all conversation.

Despite being able to fly, exhaustion weighed on them like a tangible force. The battle had drained Tenshi, Iku, and Shion of much of their strength.

Tenshi's wounds, while still bleeding, were bound crudely by strips of her own tattered clothing. Her face was pale but set in a stubborn frown, her mind replaying the events of the battle. Certain Death's overwhelming power, her relentless assault, and the sudden intervention of Reimu and Marisa swirled together in her mind, leaving her feeling unsettled.

"We're almost there," Iku finally said, her voice breaking the silence as they approached Bhavaagra's shining terraces. The skies grew clearer as they approached the shimmering expanse of Bhavaagra. The Celestial Realm glowed softly, its pristine buildings and floating platforms exuding a sense of tranquility. However, today, the peace seemed faintly marred by an undercurrent of tension.

They landed clumsily, stumbling onto on one of the platforms. Tenshi dropped to her knees, her hands gripping the ground as she tried to catch her breath. Shion leaned heavily against a nearby pillar, her body trembling from the exertion.

"Finally... home," Tenshi muttered, her voice weak.

Iku frowned but said nothing, keeping a watchful eye on her charge. She straightened up, her elegant scarf fluttering behind her as she prepared to report to Lord Nai. However, before she could speak, a familiar voice called out.

"Well, look at you lot!"

Suika Ibuki appeared, her small frame perched on a boulder, sake gourd in hand. Her oni horns glinted in the sunlight, and her wide grin revealed both amusement and curiosity.

"So..." Suika hopped down effortlessly, strolling over to inspect them more closely. She eyed Iku's singed scarf, Tenshi's bloodied form, and Shion's exhausted slouch. "Man, you three look like you got chewed up and spat out by an oni after a drinking contest," she quipped, taking a long swig from her gourd.

Tenshi groaned, glaring at Suika with a mix of annoyance and weariness. "You could say that..."

Suika tilted her head, her expression curious but still playful. ""Come on, what happened? All of Heaven's been buzzing with rumors about something big. Heard your old man ordered you back here and everything. Did you trouble someone again?

Tenshi stiffened at the mention of her father, but before she could snap back, Shion muttered the name, her voice barely above a whisper. "Certain Death…"

Iku sighed, brushing a strand of damp hair from her face. "The commotion you're talking about is likely related to Certain Death."

Suika tilted her head, her expression blank. "Certain who?"

Tenshi clenched her fists, the tension in her shoulders evident. "Certain Death. The one we just fought."

Suika's eyes widened slightly before she let out a bark of laughter. "Oh! Her! Why didn't you just say so?" She took another swig from her gourd, her tone casual. "I used to hang out with her. Great fun, that one. Thought she'd retired, though. Haven't seen her around in ages. She's tough—earned the respect of all the oni. Even the Kishin Chiefs hold her in high regard. You fought her?" She snorted, wiping a tear from her eye. "What were you thinking? You're no match for her! Not even close."

Tenshi bristled at the remark but didn't respond. Iku, however, pressed a hand to her shoulder to keep her from snapping.

Suika's expression turned serious for once, a rare moment of sobriety breaking through her usual joviality. "What did you do?" she asked Tenshi, her tone low and laden with warning. "No one survives her. That's why she's called Certain Death. You don't fight her and live to tell about it."

Tenshi hesitated, her gaze dropping to the ground. "I... I was marked by her."

Suika blinked, then frowned. "You?" She leaned in, peering at Tenshi as if searching for evidence. "Why would you get marked? Last I checked, she only marks people who need to be put down. Deserving targets, you know? You sure there's not some kind of misunderstanding? I mean, you're here. She let you go, didn't she?"

"She didn't let us go," Shion interjected, her voice trembling. "We barely escaped. If we hadn't run, we'd all be dead," she said bluntly. Her red eyes flickered with unease. "She was too strong. Even when we thought we had her, she kept getting back up.""

Suika straightened, her lips pursed in thought. "Hmm... That's weird. Maybe she's changed, or maybe..." Her eyes flicked toward Tenshi. "Maybe you're not as bad as you think you are."

Tenshi flinched, the weight of Suika's words hitting harder than she anticipated. "It doesn't matter," she muttered. "What matters is that she's still out there."

Suika shrugged, her carefree demeanor returning. "Well, whatever the case, you're still alive. That's saying something. Maybe it's luck, or maybe she just got bored."

Iku stepped forward, her voice firm despite her exhaustion. "We need to report to Lord Nai. He'll need to know everything that happened."

"Yeah, yeah," Suika said, waving them off. "Go do your celestial business. Just remember, if Certain Death really wants to come after you again, you'll need more than luck next time."

As they moved past Suika and entered the palace grounds, her words lingered in the air. Each step felt heavier than the last, but for now, they were alive. The storm was behind them, but the shadow of Certain Death loomed large in their minds, an ominous promise of trials yet to come.

Suika then sat perched on a rock at the edge of Bhavaagra, the serene celestial realm far below her. She gazed out over the vast landscape, where the soft glow of the sky contrasted sharply with the storm that had ravaged the world below. The storm's remnants were still fresh in her mind, a storm that had been born from the conflict between her old friend, Certain Death, and the trio of celestial misfits who had barely escaped with their lives. Suika knew exactly who Rain was. Or rather, who Rain had been, and who she could still be, deep down. But in that moment, Suika felt an unusual blend of concern and amusement as she thought to herself.

"You just keep being interesting, don't you?" Suika mused aloud, her voice carrying a note of bittersweet affection. A grin tugged at the corners of her lips. "Just like old times."

She swung her legs back and forth, her thoughts drifting back to a time long past, when Rain was not Certain Death, but something else entirely. She knew that Rain's mask of violence, the dark persona she now wore so easily, was just that—a mask. A role, a carefully crafted persona to keep everyone, even herself, at arm's length.

Suika knew that beneath it all was the same person she had once known: a friend she respected, one who had always walked a complicated, difficult path. She had been part of a deal—a dangerous, secretive deal with Hecatia Lapislazuli, the goddess of Hell. The deal had been made years ago, long before Gensokyo knew of certain legends. A deal where Rain had worked in the shadows, pushing herself to the brink to free a friend's soul from the torment of Hell. In exchange for her assistance, that friend would be reincarnated, freed from their prison, reborn to live again.

Suika had been aware of this. She had seen the toll it had taken on Rain, seen the sacrifices made. In exchange, Rain had earned something few could claim: the freedom to choose her own fate. But Suika also knew the price of that freedom. Hecatia's contracts were never simple, and Rain's deal was no exception.

"That's right," Suika muttered to herself, the grin fading slightly as she remembered the quiet weight of those long-past conversations. "You did all that for a friend. But your time with her is over. The deal was done, and yet… here you are, playing this game again. Why?"

Suika's thoughts turned to Rain's amnesia. It wasn't just the violence, the mask of death, that puzzled her—it was the complete disappearance of the person Rain had once been. After all, Hecatia had freed her from Hell. She should have been able to move on, let go of the past. So why had she come back to Gensokyo without any memories of the life she had lived? Why had she returned to don the mask of "Certain Death"?

Suika's brow furrowed as she considered the possibility. "I know she was supposed to be dead. Or at least, that's what they all thought. She vanished. Presumed dead. But somehow, here she is. A different version of her, but still her, somehow."

She sighed, rubbing the back of her head as she let her thoughts wander. The memory of those past days when Rain had been by her side as something more than just a warrior, more than just a masked figure of destruction, lingered like a fading dream. Suika knew what she had lost. She knew it wasn't just Rain's identity that was fractured, but something much deeper. Yet, for all her power, Suika couldn't force her to reveal it—not even with all the tricks and mischief at her disposal.

"I guess the bigger question is…" Suika whispered to herself, leaning back and closing her eyes. "Is this some kind of game? A twist of fate? Maybe Yukari's behind this, maybe not. You never can tell with her. She and Rain have always had this… thing, this shifting connection, haven't they?"

Yukari Yakumo, the mastermind of Gensokyo's intricate dance of fate, had always had a hand in events that no one else could understand. Her plots were as ephemeral as the wind, ever-changing, ever-shifting. And Suika knew that Yukari and Rain shared a long, storied history together. Sometimes they were allies, working side-by-side, other times adversaries, caught in a battle of wills. Could this reappearance of Rain be part of a larger scheme, something far more than a mere coincidence?

Suika chuckled to herself, shaking her head. "Maybe I'll never know. Maybe I don't even want to know." She glanced back at the fading remnants of the storm, then back to the distant horizon of Gensokyo. "But it's certainly going to be interesting. You've always had a way of making things more fun, haven't you?"

But even as her usual playful demeanor returned, Suika couldn't shake the lingering worry. Rain's sudden reappearance, her amnesia, the way she had returned to the old role of Certain Death—it all pointed to something bigger, something unknown. And while Suika couldn't quite piece it all together, she could sense that the storm was far from over.

"All for a friend, huh? I wonder if she even remembers that, or if she's just lost in it all. She should know… I'm sure she does, somewhere inside." Suika's voice softened, a trace of sadness in her words. "Perhaps this is what being human means. Perhaps that's why you had your epiphany too, huh? Kasen?"

The connection between Rain and Kasen, two figures whose paths had intertwined in the distant past, was something she too was part of. After all, those times were the times where she and the others wander the surface. As to why Rain came back? Maybe because there was more at stake than just a simple fight or a single life. There were lives intertwined, destinies not yet fulfilled.

Suika stood up with a sigh, her playful grin returning. "Guess it's not my place to mess with her anymore. She'll do things her way, just like always. And I'll watch from here. But it's so much fun watching her move, like watching a game unfold. Whatever happens next, I'll be there… just like old times. Raiden Rain."

And with that, Suika turned away, her thoughts racing with endless possibilities, her mind a whirl of speculation and curiosity. No matter what came next, she knew one thing for sure: this was just the beginning of something far more dangerous—and far more exciting—than anyone could have predicted.

Later

Tenshi Hinanawi sat slumped in a chair, battered and bruised, her head tilted back as if defying the pain coursing through her body. Her celestial garments were torn and scorched, revealing deep cuts and bruises across her once-pristine skin. The Sword of Hisou lay across her lap, its blade dulled and chipped from the grueling battle. Iku Nagae and Shion Yorigami sat nearby, equally wounded and exhausted. The room they occupied, an ornate chamber in Bhavaagra, was silent save for the occasional muffled sound of attendants rushing through the halls.

It wasn't long before the door to the chamber burst open. Lord Nai, the patriarch of the Hinanawi clan, strode in with a commanding presence. His long robes billowed around him, and his sharp, fiery eyes locked onto his daughter immediately. His normally composed face was a mask of fury, concern, and disappointment.

"Tenshi!" he barked, his voice echoing through the room like a thunderclap.

Tenshi, stubborn as ever, didn't meet his gaze. Instead, she muttered, "Yeah, yeah, I'm back."

"Do not 'yeah, yeah' me, child!" Lord Nai stormed toward her, his footsteps heavy with anger. "What in Heaven's name were you thinking? Do you even comprehend the gravity of what you've done? You faced Certain Death—an entity that has obliterated even seasoned warriors—and you survived only because of sheer luck and the intervention of others!"

"Luck?" Tenshi scoffed, her voice dripping with sarcasm despite her weakened state. "More like skill, old man."

"Skill?!" Lord Nai slammed his hand onto the armrest of her chair, leaning in close. "You're lucky to be alive! Look at you! You're wounded, humiliated, and you dragged others into your reckless folly!" He gestured toward Iku and Shion, both of whom looked away awkwardly.

Shion, in her usual misfortune-laden tone, mumbled, "Hey, I didn't sign up for this, but you know… death chases me anyway."

Lord Nai's glare softened briefly as he glanced at Shion, but his focus quickly returned to his daughter. He straightened, his voice lowering but no less firm. "I ordered Iku to bring you back here. Not to throw yourself into a suicidal confrontation with an enemy far beyond your capability."

Iku, sitting stiffly despite her wounds, finally spoke up. "Lord Nai, I followed your instructions, but Tenshi refused to listen. The moment she heard about the entity, she took matters into her own hands. I tried to stop her, but…"

"You can stop now, Iku," Tenshi interrupted, her voice weary. "I'm already getting an earful."

"No, Tenshi, you will listen this time," Iku snapped, her usual composure cracking. "Do you even realize what you've put us through? What you've put your father through? You treat this all like some game, but we nearly died out there—you nearly died out there! And for what? To satisfy your childish need for excitement?"

Tenshi glared at Iku but said nothing. For once, she couldn't summon a retort.

Lord Nai let out a long sigh, his anger giving way to something deeper. He looked down at his daughter, his voice softening. "Tenshi… You've always been reckless, always seeking thrills where none are needed. But this isn't just about you anymore. Do you see this?"

He pointed to the faint, glowing mark on her neck—a skull with the number 1 etched beside it. The mark of death.

Tenshi's eyes flicked to the mark, her usual bravado faltering for a moment.

"This mark," Lord Nai continued, his tone grave, "means death still lingers. It means this day is not over, and as long as it remains, our home is not safe. If Certain Death decides to come here…" His voice trailed off, the implications clear.

"She won't," Tenshi muttered, though her voice lacked conviction.

"You don't know that," Lord Nai said firmly. "And until this day passes, I will not let you out of my sight."

Tenshi finally looked up at him, her eyes betraying a flicker of emotion. "Why do you care so much? You're always mad at me anyway."

"Because you're my daughter!" Lord Nai snapped, his voice breaking with emotion. "Do you think I enjoy seeing you like this? Do you think I enjoy watching you throw your life away, time and time again? You're reckless, yes, but you're still my child. And if anything happened to you… If Certain Death had taken you…" He closed his eyes, steadying himself. "I would never forgive myself."

The room fell silent. Even Tenshi, usually so quick with a quip or a sarcastic remark, found herself at a loss for words.

After a long pause, Lord Nai straightened, his usual stern demeanor returning. "For now, you will stay here. No more reckless adventures, no more defiance. You will recover, and you will reflect on your actions. Do I make myself clear?"

"Crystal," Tenshi muttered, though her tone was subdued.

Lord Nai glanced at Iku and Shion. "And you two… Thank you for bringing her back. I'll make sure appropriate care is provided for your injuries."

Iku gave a small nod, her expression still tense. Shion shrugged, her usual air of misfortune hanging over her like a cloud.

As Lord Nai turned to leave, he paused at the doorway, his voice softening once more. "Tenshi… don't try and do things like this, ever again."

And with that, he was gone, leaving Tenshi to sit in silence, the weight of his words—and her actions—settling heavily on her shoulders.

The atmosphere in the chamber was heavy, as if the room itself carried the weight of the day's harrowing events. Tenshi, despite her usual brashness, sat quietly. Her head rested against the back of her chair, her crimson eyes staring at nothing in particular. The gleaming mark of death on her neck was a constant, eerie reminder of the grim encounter they had barely survived.

Shion Yorigami, sitting on the floor nearby, let out a low whistle. "Man, your old man's something else, huh?" she remarked, rubbing the back of her neck. "Tough as nails, but… he really cares about you. Not many dads would storm in here like that after the mess we just went through."

Tenshi scoffed, though the sound lacked its usual edge. "Yeah, well, he's got a funny way of showing it."

Shion raised an eyebrow, her gaze steady. "Does he? Look, I've seen a lot of people in my time—good ones, bad ones, indifferent ones. Your dad? He's terrified of losing you. That's why he's so tough on you. You can tell just by the way he looked at you when he thought you were gonna say something stupid again. I wish my sister could be like that though or at least be a normal one..."

Tenshi didn't respond immediately. Instead, her hand drifted up to the mark on her neck, her fingers tracing the faint outline of the skull. "He's always like that," she said softly. "Always yelling, always telling me what to do. I guess I never really thought about why."

Iku, seated nearby with a weary expression, chimed in. "He yells because he doesn't know how else to protect you. You're his daughter, Tenshi. And today… today he almost lost you. We all almost lost you. Do you think that's something he can just brush off?"

Tenshi flinched at the reminder, her usual confidence crumbling under the weight of the truth. She remembered the look on her father's face—the raw fear hidden behind his stern reprimands. She hated to admit it, but it had shaken her.

Shion leaned back, resting her head against the wall. "You're lucky, you know. To have someone like that. Most people don't get that kind of love. Even if it comes with a side of yelling and orders, it's still love."

The room fell into a contemplative silence, each of them lost in their thoughts.

Tenshi's mind drifted back to the battlefield, to the image of Certain Death's face when Iku's lightning had struck. She had seen countless things in her life—earthquakes, celestial disputes, even the occasional oni's rampage. But nothing had compared to that moment.

The memory flashed vividly before her eyes: the lightning tearing through the rain, illuminating Certain Death's figure. Her skeletal mouth and nose gleamed with an unnatural light, the rain slicking down the bare bone. It was a face no longer human, no longer mortal—a visage of something that transcended the boundaries of life and death.

The chill that ran down Tenshi's spine now was as palpable as it had been then. She clutched her fists. "That face," she murmured, her voice trembling slightly. "It wasn't human anymore. Just… bone. Like death itself was staring back at me."

Shion glanced over, her usual nonchalance replaced by genuine concern. "Yeah, I saw it too. Gotta say, it's not something I'll be forgetting anytime soon."

Iku crossed her arms, her expression grim. "None of us will. And the fact that Reimu, Marisa, and Alice had to hold her back is… troubling. If she ever comes here, if she decides to pursue us…"

She didn't finish the sentence. The unspoken possibilities hung in the air like a storm cloud.

Tenshi forced herself to sit up straighter, ignoring the sharp pain in her ribs. "Reimu and Marisa won't let that happen," she said, though her voice lacked conviction. "They're tough. They'll keep her at bay."

Shion frowned. "Maybe. But even they can't hold her forever. She's relentless—didn't you hear what she said when we fled? 'We'll meet again.' She meant it, Tenshi. She's not done with us."

Iku nodded, her tone grave. "And let's not forget what that mark on your neck means. She's marked you, Tenshi. Until the day ends without her returning, none of us are truly safe."

Tenshi looked down at her lap, her fingers brushing against the Sword of Hisou. She wanted to believe she was strong enough to face Certain Death again, but the truth gnawed at her. The entity had been stronger, faster, and more ruthless than anything she'd ever encountered.

Her father's words echoed in her mind: "Do you even comprehend the gravity of what you've done?"

For once, she couldn't summon a sarcastic retort. Instead, she whispered, "If she comes back… what do we do?"

Iku's expression softened slightly, though her worry remained evident. "This time, Tenshi… this time, you need to listen. No more reckless decisions. If Certain Death comes for you again, you can't face her alone. Do you understand?"

Tenshi hesitated before nodding. "Yeah. I get it."

Shion smirked faintly, though it didn't reach her eyes. "Good. Because I'm not about to let you drag me into another mess like that. I've got enough bad luck as it is."

The faint attempt at humor lightened the mood, if only slightly.

As the three of them sat in the quiet room, the storm outside had long since faded, replaced by the warm glow of the celestial sun. Yet the mark on Tenshi's neck remained, a grim reminder of the threat that still loomed.

And though Tenshi's father had left the room, his concern lingered like a protective shadow, wrapping around her in a way she hadn't fully understood before. For the first time, she allowed herself to acknowledge it—not as an oppressive weight, but as the love of a father who couldn't bear to lose his child.

She silently vowed to herself that, should Certain Death return, she would fight not just for her pride, but for the people who cared about her—the people who had stood by her, even in her most reckless moments.

The celestial realm offered them safety for now, but the memory of Certain Death's relentless pursuit and haunting declaration echoed in their minds:

"We'll meet again."

The Perspective of the Girl Who Crossed Between The Boundary of Life and Death

The void stretched out before me, infinite and unyielding. Darkness pressed against me, thick and suffocating, muting every sense except for the pounding of my heartbeat—or was it just an echo of my mind? The silence was unbearable, heavier than the weight of any blade or burden I had carried.

Where am I?

I strained to remember, but the memories were fragments, slipping through my grasp like grains of sand. The storm, the clash, their faces—the pain. And then… nothing.

The silence broke.

"Why did you hesitate?"

The voice slithered through the void, cold and venomous. It coiled around me, tightening with every word. "You could have pursued them. You could have ended them all. Yet you allowed yourself to be restrained. Why?"

A faint light flickered in the distance, but it offered no comfort. I clenched my fists—or at least I thought I did. In this endless black, I wasn't sure if I even had a body. "I see the error of trusting you," I said firmly, my voice steady despite the emptiness around me. "Never speak to me again."

The light swirled, growing and shifting until it took form. From the darkness emerged a colossal serpent, its scales glistening with an unnatural sheen, each one reflecting a distorted world. Its eyes gleamed like twin suns, cold and predatory, and its single head loomed impossibly high above me.

"You still cling to those pitiful human emotions," it hissed, the sound reverberating through the void. "They're the very reason you're here, trapped in this state between life and death. It was your weakness that led you to this."

I glared at the beast, my defiance rising like a flame in my chest. "And what would you know about weakness? You're nothing but a whisper in the dark, clinging to a host because you have no strength of your own."

Before the serpent could respond, another voice cut through the shadows, calm and deliberate.

"It seeks chaos, nothing more."

The void shifted again, and beside the serpent, another form began to take shape. This time, it was a tree, towering and ancient. Its branches were gnarled and bare, but the faint outline of cherry blossoms clung to its withered frame, glowing faintly like embers.

"I, on the other hand," the tree continued, its voice deep and resonant, "wish to see everything destroyed. For only in destruction can true peace be found."

The two entities, so vastly different yet eerily similar, loomed over me. The serpent coiled tighter, its gaze never leaving mine. The tree's presence was more subdued, but its weight was no less suffocating.

"Who are you?" I demanded, my voice cracking despite my resolve. "Why are you here? Why are you in me?"

The serpent chuckled, a sound that sent a shiver down my spine. "You already know the answer to that, though your fractured mind keeps it locked away."

The tree swayed, its brittle branches creaking like bones. "It was your own fault. We are here because of you. Because of what you did."

I stepped back—or tried to. The void gave no ground. "What are you talking about?" I demanded, frustration mingling with fear. "What did I do?"

Neither answered. The serpent's grin widened, revealing fangs longer than swords. The tree's blossoms began to fall, each petal disintegrating into ash as it descended.

"When the seal breaks," the serpent said, "your power will return, no longer restrained."

The tree's voice followed, steady and unwavering. "And when it does, you will have two choices: cooperate with us, or lose yourself entirely. We will take your body, and you will be trapped here. Just as you trapped us."

The implications of their words hit me like a thunderclap. My breath—or the thought of it—hitched. My chest felt heavy, and for a moment, the void seemed to close in entirely.

"And if I refuse?" I said, narrowing my eyes. "If you break free and try to take control, I know people who can deal with you."

Both entities laughed, their voices melding into a cacophony that shook the darkness. "Your faith in others will be your undoing," they said in unison. "We look forward to the day your memories return. For when they do, so too will your regrets."

Their laughter echoed as the void began to fracture. Light seeped through the cracks, blinding and relentless. The serpent and the tree faded, their forms dissolving into mist as the darkness crumbled around me.

I woke with a gasp, the familiar scent of incense filling my lungs. My body ached, every muscle screaming in protest as I struggled to sit up. The room was bathed in the warm, golden light of the setting sun, the soft hum of cicadas drifting in from outside.

The Hakurei Shrine.

I let out a weary sigh, the weight of the encounter lingering in my mind. But as I glanced around the room, the familiarity brought a small, fleeting comfort.

For now, I was safe. But the voices were still there, lurking at the edge of my consciousness. Waiting.

Rain's eyes fluttered open, the dim, warm light of the Hakurei Shrine greeting her groggily. Her body felt heavy, each movement accompanied by a dull ache that seemed to seep into her very bones. She turned her head slightly, the familiar wooden beams of the ceiling bringing a fleeting sense of relief. She was alive. Somehow.

Her breathing steadied as she slowly pushed herself up, the weight of her limbs feeling unfamiliar. A chill ran through her as the metallic clink of chains echoed in the quiet room. Rain hesitated, lowering her gaze to her hands.

They were human—thin, pale fingers stretched out before her, trembling slightly as if in disbelief. But the manacles around her wrists remained, their cold, unyielding grip a cruel reminder of her current state. Chains hung loosely from them, the links swaying with her slightest movement.

She reached up, brushing her fingers through her hair. It cascaded over her shoulders in long, silver-white waves, far longer than it had ever been before. Her reflection in a nearby mirror caught her attention, and she froze.

The face staring back was hers—but not entirely. Her eyes, still a piercing red, now carried a sharpness that felt alien. Her hair shimmered unnaturally, almost glowing in the dim light, a stark contrast to the shadows clinging to the edges of the room. The transformation she had feared was still there, unchanged.

She swallowed hard, her gaze dropping to her attire. The dark, tattered cloak she had donned as Certain Death remained draped over her shoulders. Her chest tightened as she ran her hands along the fabric, willing it to vanish, to return to something familiar. But no matter how much she wished for it, the remnants of that terrifying persona clung to her like a second skin.

"Still here," she murmured, her voice hollow.

Her mind raced, fragments of memory from the encounter flashing through her thoughts—the storm, the fight, the faces of those who had stood against her, and… the voices.

Her fingers tightened around the chain attached to her manacles. The weight of their words lingered, heavy and unshakable. Your power will return, no longer restrained… You will have two choices…

Rain closed her eyes, her breaths coming in shallow gasps. She tried to shake the memory, to ground herself in the familiar setting of the shrine. But the sensation of those chains and the haunting echo of laughter refused to leave her.

After a long moment, she forced herself to stand. Her legs trembled beneath her, but she steadied herself against the wall. The faint sound of cicadas filled the air, mingling with the distant chatter of voices outside. She took a deep breath, letting the familiar atmosphere soothe her frayed nerves, even if only a little.

Stepping toward the small mirror, she stared at her reflection, her expression hardening. The sight of the chains, the manacles, the silver-white hair—it all felt like a cruel mockery.

She clenched her fists, the chains rattling softly as she did. "You're still here," she muttered, staring at her reflection with a mixture of frustration and defiance. "Fine. Then I'll make you watch as I figure out how to undo all of this. Both of you."

Rain turned away from the mirror, her steps unsteady but determined. The warmth of the shrine, the comfort of its familiarity, couldn't erase the reality of her condition. But it was a start. A reminder that she wasn't alone.

For now, she would face whatever came next. Her own battle within—and the ones yet to come.

Then the faint creak of the sliding door broke the quiet of the room as Rain turned her head toward the sound. Standing in the doorway, silhouetted by the soft glow of the setting sun, was Marisa Kirisame. Her trademark black-and-white attire was slightly disheveled, her hat tilted at an angle that spoke of a long and tiring day. But her expression, a mixture of relief and nervous energy, was unmistakably directed at Rain.

"You're awake, daze," Marisa said, her voice casual but carrying an undercurrent of emotion. She stepped fully into the room, the wooden floor creaking beneath her boots. "Took you long enough. Thought we'd have to break out a revival spell or something."

Rain leaned back against the wall, the weight of her chains clinking softly with the movement. "Guess I'm tougher than I look," she replied, her voice hoarse.

Marisa's grin faltered slightly as her eyes scanned Rain, taking in the long silver-white hair, the manacles, the dark, tattered cloak that still clung to her. Her casual demeanor cracked for a moment, revealing a flicker of unease. "Yeah… tougher," she said, almost to herself.

Rain noticed the shift, her gaze narrowing slightly. "You don't have to stare, you know."

"Sorry, sorry," Marisa said quickly, waving her hands in front of her. "It's just… you're still, uh, that." She gestured vaguely to Rain's altered appearance. "Kinda thought you'd, y'know, turn back or something after that big fight."

Rain sighed, her fingers idly tugging at the chain on her wrist. "Yeah, me too."

Marisa hesitated, her usual energy tempered by the gravity of the situation. "Hold on. Reimu and Alice are still here. They've been waiting for you to wake up. Guess they'll want to see this for themselves."

Without waiting for a response, Marisa turned on her heel and hurried out of the room, her voice carrying down the hallway. "Hey! She's awake!"

Rain tilted her head back, closing her eyes briefly as she processed Marisa's words. They stayed. Even after everything, even after seeing what she had become, they stayed.

Footsteps echoed down the hall, growing louder as multiple figures approached. The door slid open again, and Reimu Hakurei entered first, her expression calm but her eyes filled with questions. She carried herself with the composed air of the shrine maiden she was, though there was a faint tension in her shoulders that betrayed her concern.

Behind her was Alice Margatroid, her hands clasped tightly in front of her. She lingered near the doorway, her usually stoic face softened by a mix of curiosity and worry. Marisa followed last, her hands on her hips as if to make it clear she was the one who had found Rain awake.

Reimu was the first to speak, her voice steady. "How are you feeling?"

Rain opened her eyes and shrugged, the chains rattling faintly with the motion. "Like I got hit by a celestial and a storm at the same time. Oh wait—I did."

Marisa chuckled nervously at the comment, but Reimu remained serious. "You're lucky to be alive. Do you even remember what happened?"

Rain frowned, her mind racing through fragmented memories of the battle and the void that had followed. The serpent, the tree, the voices… She pushed the thoughts aside. "Most of it. The important parts, anyway."

Alice stepped forward, her brow furrowing as her gaze lingered on the manacles around Rain's wrists. "And this… state you're in. It hasn't gone away?"

Rain shook her head, her long hair shifting like a silver curtain. "No. This is me for now, apparently." She glanced down at her hands, flexing her fingers as if to test their humanity. "Still human enough, I guess."

Reimu crossed her arms, her sharp eyes studying Rain carefully. "You didn't look very human back there," she said bluntly. "What happened to you?"

Rain hesitated, her fingers tightening around the chain. "It's… complicated."

Marisa raised an eyebrow. "Complicated? Rain, you were literally glowing red eyes and death vibes. That ain't just complicated; that's downright terrifying."

"Thanks for the vote of confidence," Rain muttered, her tone dry.

Alice's gaze softened, her voice quieter but no less direct. "We're not here to judge you, Rain. We just… want to understand."

Rain looked at each of them in turn, the weight of their concern sinking in. Despite everything—despite what they had seen, despite what she had done—they were still here. They hadn't abandoned her. The thought both comforted and unsettled her.

"I don't have all the answers," Rain admitted, her voice low. "Something's… wrong. With me. With everything. But I don't know what yet or should I say I don't remember yet."

Reimu's expression softened slightly, though the tension in her shoulders remained. "Then we'll figure it out. But you're staying here for now. No running off. No fighting celestial battles. You need to rest."

Rain raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at her lips. "You're making it sound like I'm grounded, again."

"You are, again." Reimu replied curtly.

Marisa snickered, though the sound was strained. "Don't worry, Rain. We'll keep an eye on you. You're not getting rid of us that easily."

Rain looked at them again, the weight of their words settling over her. For a moment, she allowed herself to relax, the chains on her wrists still but ever-present.

"Thanks," she said quietly. It was a simple word, but it carried more weight than she cared to admit.

Rain shifted her arms experimentally, noting how the manacles and chains followed her movements. Her gaze drifted downward, tracing the pale skin of her hands. They were unmarred, smooth, and unbroken—as if all the injuries she had sustained were nothing more than a bad dream. But the memories were vivid: the storm, the battle, the wounds... her face.

Her hand rose instinctively to touch her cheek. It felt normal. 'Whole.' She frowned, her fingers brushing over her nose, her lips. The image of what she had seen—her face skeletal, bare bone gleaming in the rain—haunted her. "How…" she murmured, her voice quiet, almost afraid of the answer.

"What's wrong?" Reimu asked, stepping closer.

Rain let out a bitter chuckle, her hand dropping to her lap. "What's wrong? I should be asking you that. I fought a celestial, got half my face blown off, and now I'm here without so much as a scar." She looked at the others, her crimson eyes troubled. "Tell me… does that sound human to you?"

The room was silent for a moment before Marisa snorted, breaking the tension. "Rain, you stopped being 'human' the second you started running faster than I can fly and jumping like a frog with magical feats."

Rain shot her a glare, but the faintest smile tugged at her lips despite herself. "Thanks for the compliment, Marisa. Very helpful."

Reimu rolled her eyes, her arms crossing over her chest. "She has a point, though. You're not exactly normal. But you've never been. Superhuman feats, supernatural trouble—it's all kind of your thing, isn't it?" She emphasized the word "superhuman," leaning slightly forward. "And 'human' is still in there somewhere. So don't start thinking you're some kind of monster."

Rain's gaze softened, though her doubt lingered. "I don't know what I am anymore."

Alice, who had remained quiet until now, finally stepped closer. Her hands were folded neatly in front of her, and her expression, though reserved, carried a gentleness that Rain hadn't expected. "You're Rain," Alice said simply. "Whatever form you take, whatever you've been through—that hasn't changed."

Rain blinked, surprised by the straightforwardness of Alice's words. Alice wasn't usually this direct, but there was a certainty in her tone that made Rain pause.

"You are still my friend," Alice continued, her voice soft. "Before any of this, you were kind, determined, and annoyingly persistent. That's still who you are, no matter how much you doubt yourself."

Rain felt a lump forming in her throat, and she quickly averted her gaze. "…Thanks, Alice. That… means a lot."

Marisa grinned, clapping her hands together. "See? Told you, Rain. You're stuck with us whether you like it or not."

Reimu's lips quirked into the faintest of smiles. "Alice is right. You're still you. So stop overthinking it. You're just making things harder on yourself."

Rain sighed, the weight of their words settling over her. She wasn't entirely convinced—they didn't know what she had seen or heard in that dark void—but their support was undeniable.

"…Fine," Rain said at last, her voice steadier. "But if I sprout another skeletal part, I'm blaming you all for jinxing it."

The room erupted into a mix of chuckles and groans, the tension easing just slightly. For now, Rain let herself believe in their words, even as her mind lingered on the unanswered questions. She would face those soon enough.

Reimu then glanced at Rain, her expression caught between concern and exasperation. "Alright, Rain. Explain. Why were you fighting Tenshi in the first place? What was she even doing there?"

Marisa leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees, and asked too "What even started that fight? Tenshi doesn't just show up randomly to pick a fight... well, usually."

Rain sighed, rubbing her temples as if to stave off a headache. "That celestial brat came out of nowhere," she began, frustration lacing her words. "She started accusing me of marking her or something ridiculous like that. I didn't even know what she was talking about . Then she kept provoking me, running her mouth about things she didn't understand."

She frowned, her gaze dropping to her manacled arms. "And then she wouldn't shut up. Kept provoking me, pushing and pushing… until I snapped. I don't even know why I got so angry so fast, but it's like something else took over. My temper... it's been harder to control ever since—" She gestured at the chains on her arms. "—this."

Reimu tilted her head. "The chains?"

Rain nodded. "Kasen's medicine healed my missing arm, but these chains showed up as a side effect. It's like they're connected to something deeper, and sometimes it's like they... pull on me. Make me more impulsive, more… aggressive."

"Like an oni," Alice said quietly, her sharp eyes narrowing.

Rain's expression darkened. "Yeah. Exactly like that."

Marisa tapped her chin thoughtfully, then her eyes widened in realization. "Wait a sec. That reminds me… weren't you drunk off your head that time? You know when you, uh..."

Rain gave her a flat look. "I don't remember, but really, Marisa? That's your concern right now?"

"No, no, hear me out!" Marisa leaned closer, her eyes sparkling with mischief and guilt. "Remember that scroll Hecatia gave you? The one you couldn't figure out? I think—uh—I might've done something dumb with it."

Rain frowned. "What are you talking about?"

Marisa scratched the back of her head nervously, her voice lowering. "Well, you were so drunk, you could barely stand. And I thought, hey, wouldn't it be funny if we tested it out? So… I wrote a name on it."

Reimu's eyes widened, snapping her fingers as she recalled. "That's right! I saw you do it! You wrote 'Tenshi Hinanawi sucks 1' on the scroll. And then the thing just… burned up."

Rain's brow furrowed as she tried to piece it together. "Wait. You're saying you wrote Tenshi's name on a scroll that Hecatia gave me? Why would you do that?"

Marisa gave her an awkward grin. "Well, it was supposed to be harmless. I thought the name sounded ridiculous and wanted to see if the scroll actually did anything. I mean, come on, 'Tenshi Hinanawi'? It's like a name out of a bad novel!"

Rain groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose. "And you didn't think to tell me this earlier?"

"Well, to be fair," Marisa said sheepishly, "you laughed at it too! You were drunk, but you thought it was hilarious!"

Reimu chimed in, crossing her arms. "The scroll just burned up after that. Floated into nothingness. I thought it was weird but didn't think it actually did anything."

Rain's expression turned grim. "Looks like it did do something. That's probably why she came after me. She thought I cursed her or something."

Alice, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. "It sounds like whatever magic was in that scroll targeted Tenshi in some way. Maybe it marked her with something she didn't understand, which is why she blamed you."

Rain let out a long, weary sigh, leaning back against the wall. "Fantastic. So I'm stuck with oni chains, a celestial with a grudge, all because of a random thought that you thought was funny. Great. Just great."

Marisa chuckled nervously. "Uh… sorry?"

Reimu rolled her eyes. "Well, at least we know where this started. Now we just have to figure out how to fix it."

Rain snorted, giving them a wry smile. "The problem was so simple yet it escalated to this."

Reimu's expression then darkened as the conversation shifted. She glanced at Marisa and then back at Rain, folding her arms. "While we're on the subject of what's been going on, there's something else. We found a dead man in the forest."

Rain immediately stiffened from that statement.

Reimu nodded, her tone grave. "His head was… well, gone. Completely blown off. We checked around for clues, but there wasn't much to go on. Marisa was there when we found him, but she refused to say anything until you woke up."

Rain's stomach churned, her gaze falling to the floor. Memories of the incident flooded back, and for a moment, the weight of guilt and fury clashed in her mind. She balled her fists tightly, her voice low and rough. "That fucker deserved it."

The room fell silent, her words heavy and unexpected. Marisa blinked in surprise, while Reimu arched a brow, clearly caught off guard.

"Rain," Alice said softly, tilting her head. "What happened?"

Rain exhaled shakily, her silver-white hair falling over her face. "He was an outsider. Drunk, belligerent. And then he started running his mouth… threatening me, and Marisa. Saying disgusting things. He was going to—" She stopped, clenching her teeth. "He wanted to hurt her. To do things to her."

Marisa spoke up quickly, "I could've handled him. I'm not some defenseless maiden, ya know."

Rain's gaze snapped up, her voice sharp. "I don't care if you could've handled him. He threatened you. I wasn't going to stand there and let that happen." She took a deep breath, trying to steady her rising temper. "My temper… my strength… the oni side effects. I just lost it. One punch, and his head was gone."

Reimu's expression softened slightly, though her posture remained firm. "I see."

Rain's eyes narrowed. "Is this the line, then? The point where you decide I'm too dangerous to be around?"

Reimu shook her head. "The rules are clear. Those laws apply to the villagers, to the people of Gensokyo. Outsiders…" She sighed, her voice carrying a weight of reluctant pragmatism. "Outsiders don't fall under those protections, there are other rules for them. And if what you're saying is true, then he crossed the line first."

Rain let out a dry, humorless laugh, the tension in her shoulders easing slightly. "That's reassuring. For a moment, I thought I'd have to deal with your wrath on top of everything else."

"Still," Alice interjected, her gaze critical but not unkind, "your choice of words… it's different. That's not how you used to talk."

Rain smirked faintly, leaning back. "Guess I'm getting used to it. Or maybe…" She tapped her temple. "I think I remember talking this way before. It feels familiar."

"Yeah, well, it's a colorful way of talking," Marisa said, grinning despite herself. "But for what it's worth, I appreciate what you did. Even if I didn't need it."

Rain glanced at her, the faintest smile tugging at her lips. "I don't care if you needed it or not. You're my friend, Marisa. No one messes with my friends."

The atmosphere lightened slightly, though the weight of the conversation still lingered. Reimu's gaze lingered on Rain for a moment longer before she finally spoke. "Just… try to keep things under control from now on. We don't need any more surprises like this."

Rain gave a small nod, though she couldn't help but feel the chains on her arms grow heavier with the promise she might not always be able to keep.

Rain then leaned back, her fingers absentmindedly tapping against the manacles on her wrists as she broke the brief silence. "We'll need to deal with Tenshi. Clear this mess up before it spirals even further out of control."

Marisa tilted her head. "You're serious? After all that?"

Rain nodded firmly. "It has to be now. If we let this sit, she might escalate things again. Who knows what else she'll pull?" She straightened, her silver-white hair catching the dim light. "Where do I find her?"

Marisa scratched her head. "Well, if I had to guess, Heaven. Specifically, Bhavaagra."

Rain exhaled sharply, her eyes narrowing. "Then we'll go. Just you and me, Marisa. After all, you're part of why this happened in the first place."

"Hey!" Marisa held up her hands, half-offended, half-amused. "What'd I do?"

Rain crossed her arms. "You wrote her name on that scroll. You might've thought it was funny, but now we're in this mess."

Reimu cut in, her tone sharp but concerned. "And how exactly do you plan to get to Heaven? You can't fly. And with all this chaos, Heaven's probably got its gates guarded tighter than ever because of you."

Rain smirked, leaning forward as her red eyes gleamed. "That's where things get… interesting."

Reimu frowned. "And, what do you mean?"

Rain looked down at her hands, flexing her fingers as if testing a memory brought to life. "When I passed out earlier… something clicked and this too started when I was battling that brat. It wasn't much, just fragments, but I remembered some of the things I can do. Abilities I learned before. The rest? Still a blur, especially why I worked with Hecatia or what deal we made. But I know this—these abilities… they're dark. Forbidden, even."

Alice perked up. "Forbidden magic?"

Rain nodded slowly. "One of them is Kinjutsu. That's what it's called. It's not the only kind of magic I've dabbled in either. There are other techniques I don't fully understand yet, but the Kinjutsu ones stand out or at least just from what I read as I read that first." She rubbed her temples. "Hecatia gave me scrolls detailing some of this stuff. I wrote them myself, apparently. And now it makes sense why. She must've known my memory would be wiped. Maybe she even predicted this entire situation, kinda scary but let's move on."

Reimu frowned. "So, what's on those scrolls?"

Rain hesitated, then sighed. "The empty ones, they're used to mark targets. The skull symbol represents me, and the number tells them how many days they have before I come for them. It's a warning system, sure, but it's also a way to track them… and even create a portal directly to their location."

Marisa crossed her arms skeptically, raising a brow. "Yeah? A little demonstration would be great."

Rain's lips curled into a sly smile. "Don't blink." She extended her hand, and in a flicker of shadow, a massive war scythe materialized in her grasp. The weapon gleamed ominously, its blade razor-sharp, etched with arcane symbols that pulsed faintly in the air.

She spun the scythe with ease, the heavy weapon seeming weightless in her hands. Her movements were fluid, deliberate, and mesmerizing. With a final spin, she planted the blade into the ground beside her and extended her free hand.

A dark flame sparked to life in her palm, swirling unnaturally as if alive. The room dimmed slightly as the flame cast eerie shadows across the walls. "This," she said quietly, "is the Black Flame or as I call it Flames of Death. One of the many spells that I learned." With a simple flick of her wrist, the flame vanished, leaving only the faint scent of ash in the air.

Reimu stared, her expression unreadable. "You couldn't do any of that before."

Rain nodded. "I know. But now… now it's coming back. And there's more to it than just flashy tricks." She ran her hand along the scythe's handle. "Fun fact, the reason most shinigami are issued with scythes is that they're symbols of their authority, meant to intimidate more than anything. They're rarely needed, but…" She paused, her tone growing darker. "I'm not like most shinigami."

Alice tilted her head. "What do you mean?"

Rain's gaze sharpened, and her voice dropped to a near whisper. "I wasn't just ferrying souls to the afterlife. My job—at least part of it—was to hunt down beings who had extended their lives unnaturally. Immortals, celestials, anyone who had overstayed their time. Hecatia pointed me in a direction, and I followed orders."

Marisa raised an eyebrow. "And you had free rein to just… end whoever you wanted?"

Rain shrugged. "Within reason. If I abused it, I'm sure Hecatia would've intervened. But the privilege was there, and I don't remember why it was given to me. Only that it worked in my favor."

Reimu sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Well, that's great and all, but it still doesn't explain how you plan to deal with Tenshi."

Rain smirked, gripping the scythe tightly. "Simple. I use what I have. We're going to Heaven, whether they like it or not."

Marisa blinked, her gaze darting between Rain's determined expression and the massive war scythe she now wielded effortlessly. "Uh… right now?" she asked, her tone teetering between disbelief and hesitation.

"Yes," Rain said firmly, standing tall. The chains on her arms rattled faintly as she gestured toward the door. "Get ready. We're going."

Marisa hesitated for a moment, then sighed, brushing off her hat. "Alright, alright. Geez, you're worse than Reimu sometimes."

Rain smirked faintly, ignoring the jab as she made her way outside. Marisa trailed behind, muttering under her breath about sudden plans and reckless friends.

The afternoon air was crisp and cool as they stepped out onto the shrine's grounds. The rain from earlier had left the ground damp, the faint smell of petrichor lingering in the breeze. Reimu and Alice followed close behind, their expressions wary.

Rain turned to them, gripping her scythe tightly. "We'll be back soon. Don't worry about us." She paused, her red eyes glinting as she added, "I'm more in control this time. I promise."

Reimu crossed her arms, her frown deepening. "You'd better be. You're walking into Heaven, where tensions are probably already high because of you. One wrong move, and—"

"It won't come to that," Rain interrupted. Her voice softened slightly. "I'm still mad at that little celestial brat, but… I'll admit, this all started because of me. It should end with me, too."

Alice tilted her head, her arms folded. "You're sure about this? It's not exactly the safest idea."

Rain smiled faintly. "I've faced worse. Besides am not gonna there and say, 'Am sorry for causing trouble.' and be like 'Ah, well… bleh.' she then makes a cute pose.

There was silence after that. Rain blinked in embarrassment and she just turned to Marisa, nodding. "Let's go."

Reimu let out a long sigh, shaking her head. "You're as impossible as ever, you know that?"

Marisa adjusted her hat, giving Reimu a lopsided grin. "That's why you love us, right?"

Alice frowned slightly but didn't argue. "Just… come back. Both of you."

Rain stepped forward, gripping her scythe with both hands. With a sharp motion, she slashed the air, leaving behind a gaping portal of swirling darkness. The edges of the portal rippled like water, and faint whispers seemed to echo from within.

Marisa stared at it, her usual bravado faltering as she leaned closer. "So… this is the thing, huh?" She poked at the edge of the portal with her fingers, her face scrunching up. "It's… creepy."

Rain rolled her eyes. "Go in first, Marisa. It'll be less startling for whoever's on the other side if it's you instead of me."

Marisa turned to look at Rain, her expression incredulous. "Are you kidding? You think I'm just gonna—"

Before she could finish, Rain raised her foot and unceremoniously kicked Marisa into the portal. There was a muffled yelp, followed by a faint whoosh as the witch vanished into the darkness.

Rain smirked, her eyes glinting mischievously. "Guess I didn't give her a choice."

She turned back to Reimu and Alice. "See you both soon." Without another word, she stepped into the portal, and the swirling darkness closed behind her with a faint hiss.

Reimu stared at the empty space where the portal had been, her hands on her hips. "She's reckless, impulsive, and apparently has no idea how dangerous this could be."

Alice sighed, her gaze lingering on the spot as well. "And yet, she's still going. That's Rain for you."

Reimu shook her head, her lips pressing into a thin line. "You think she'll be alright?"

Alice hesitated, then nodded. "She will be. She has to be."

The shrine maiden's expression softened, though her worry didn't entirely fade. "She's got a lot to figure out, doesn't she?"

"More than she realizes," Alice replied. She adjusted the ribbons in her hair, her expression thoughtful. "But she'll figure it out. She's stubborn like that."

Reimu chuckled faintly, crossing her arms as she gazed out at the sky. "Let's hope you're right."

The stillness of Heaven's serene fields was interrupted by the rustling of the celestial mansion's silken curtains. Tenshi sat on a cushion, staring listlessly at the room's polished floor. Her father had left after their tense conversation, and now the room was silent except for the occasional sigh from Iku, who had positioned herself near a window, glancing out uneasily.

Shion lay sprawled on another cushion, tossing a peach into the air and catching it repeatedly. "So, uh, are we just going to sit here all day, or…?"

"Shion," Iku said sharply. "This isn't the time."

Tenshi didn't respond. Her fingers absentmindedly traced the embroidered edge of her dress. Her mind was a muddle of thoughts, oscillating between frustration, guilt, and anger.

Then the air shifted.

The light filtering into the room dimmed, and a heavy, oppressive sensation blanketed the atmosphere. A low hum, like the resonance of distant thunder, echoed faintly.

Tenshi's head snapped up. "What the—"

Iku stepped forward, her expression hardening as her senses sharpened. "This presence… it's her."

Before anyone could move, a swirling dark portal materialized in the center of the room. The edges shimmered ominously, and the hum grew louder.

"What the hell is that?!" Shion exclaimed, sitting upright as the peach rolled out of her hand.

The portal wavered, and a figure was ejected from it with force. Marisa tumbled out, landing unceremoniously on the floor with a loud grunt. She groaned, pushing herself up. "Damn it! She didn't just kick me!" Marisa groaned, adjusting her hat as she gets up and grumbled, dusting off her skirt. She glanced around at the tense faces staring back at her and offered a sheepish grin. "Uh, hey there. Fancy meeting you all here."

Tenshi blinked, momentarily caught off guard. "Marisa?!"

Shion scrambled to her feet, alarmed. "Why are you here and She kicked you? Who—"

Iku's sharp gaze didn't leave the portal. "Be on guard. She's not alone."

Marisa chuckled nervously, scratching the back of her head. "Well, y'know, funny story about that—"

Before Marisa could respond, the blade of a massive scythe emerged from the swirling void, followed by its bearer. Rain stepped through, the shadows of the portal clinging to her momentarily before dissipating. Her long, silver-white hair flowed behind her, and the chains on her manacled arms rattled faintly.

The moment Rain's full form became visible, the air grew heavier.

"That scythe…" Iku said, her voice low and tense.

The figure holding it stepped out slowly, silver-white hair catching the light in stark contrast to the dark energy swirling around her. As Rain emerged fully, her sharp gaze scanned the room before landing squarely on Tenshi.

She tilted her head, taking in the pristine surroundings. "Eh, this is Heaven?" she remarked casually, her tone laced with mild disappointment. "Kinda expected something more, I dunno, grand." Her eyes narrowed as she spotted Tenshi, and her lips curled into a wry grin. "There you are, you gopping little shit. I told you we'd meet again."

Marisa, still brushing dust off her outfit, shot her a sarcastic look. "Oh yeah, real friendly greeting there."

Tenshi, Shion, and Iku all tensed, their expressions a mix of shock and wariness.

"What is Marisa doing here?" Tenshi demanded, pointing at her. "And why did she bring her?!"

Marisa threw up her hands defensively. "Hey, don't look at me! She—"

"—kicked her through the portal," Rain interjected flatly, resting the scythe on her shoulder. She tilted her head toward the portal, now flickering and fading behind her. "Guess this isn't as easy as I thought."

"That's because of your greeting," Marisa shot back.

Rain gave her an incredulous look. "What? Seriously? It's just a greeting…"

Tenshi shot to her feet, pointing an accusatory finger at Rain. "You dare show your face here after everything you—"

But before she could finish, Shion bolted from the room, her ragged clothes fluttering as she soared toward the exit. "I'm getting backup!" she shouted.

Rain let out an exaggerated sigh, spinning her scythe idly. "Sure, go ahead. Makes things more complicated, but why not?"

Iku stepped forward, her aura crackling faintly as she regarded Rain with measured caution. "You should leave, now. You've already caused enough trouble for Heaven."

Rain ignored Iku's words, her focus locked on Tenshi. "You and I are going to settle this, brat. Right here, right now."

The tension in the room was palpable, every movement laced with the possibility of violence. Marisa muttered under her breath, "This is gonna be a disaster…"

Rain leaned casually on her scythe, looking at the tense group before her, the weight of the moment pressing down on them all. "Alright, alright," she muttered with a heavy sigh, then turned to Marisa. "How do we, uh, start explaining this?" Her tone was dry, almost playful, but tinged with frustration.

Marisa shot her a look, shrugging helplessly. "I got nothing. You're the one who brought this mess down on us."

Rain rolled her eyes, barely suppressing a smirk. "Oh yeah, right, because it's totally my fault." She sarcastically remarked.

They shared a brief, familiar back-and-forth, a bicker that had become their usual dynamic over the course of their adventures. But after a moment, Rain sighed dramatically. "Okay, I'll do it. Don't expect me to talk nicely, though."

She straightened up, locking eyes with Tenshi, her expression turning serious. "Listen here, you gopping little shit, there's been a misunderstanding. Although I'm sure you've already figured that much out."

Tenshi's eyes narrowed, her stance still defensive. "A misunderstanding? After everything that's happened?"

Rain continued, her voice calm but sharp. 'I'm gonna spin this a little, so it doesn't tie back to my real identity and all.' "So, this stupid witch," she jutted a finger to Marisa, who rolled her eyes but didn't retort, "somehow found one of my scrolls. And, funny enough—or not, depending on how you look at it—she was drunk, and she wrote your name on it. That's why you've got that mark on your neck."

Marisa visibly flinched at the mention of the scroll, but she kept her mouth shut.

Rain sighed, rubbing the back of her neck. "It's still my fault. I left something important lying around, and now everything went to shit. So, here's the deal: I erase that mark. It's harmless, really, it expires too after the allotted time passes. It just means you're marked, which was my mistake to begin with." She paused, her eyes narrowing as she glanced at Tenshi. "Then, I walk away, and we pretend this never happened. Like you didn't go and ruin my pretty face in the process."

She shot a final, sardonic grin at Tenshi. "What do you say, you little shit?"

Tenshi bristled, her hands clenching into fists as the blood rushed to her face. "How can you just—"

Rain cut her off, her tone turning steely. "Hey, I'm not the one who showed up here throwing insults and challenging me to a fight, am I? So, let's not play the victim now."

The room fell into an uncomfortable silence, with everyone exchanging looks. Tenshi, her anger momentarily tempered by Rain's words, glared at her, struggling to maintain her composure. "You—"

"Let's be real here," Rain continued, her voice now cold, "you started this whole shit. You've been nothing but a headache, and we both know you were just looking for a fight. So, if you want to keep going with this, fine. But don't act like you're the wronged one here. You little shit."

Tenshi bit her lip, her fists trembling, but for the moment, she didn't make a move. The tension was thick in the air, the only sound the faint rustling of the wind outside the mansion.

Rain stood tall, the scythe still resting on her shoulder as she waited for Tenshi's response.

Tenshi stood there, her fists clenched tight, her mind racing with the words Rain had thrown at her. For a moment, all she could hear was the thumping of her own heart in her chest, the anger still simmering beneath her skin. But as the silence stretched on, something in her began to shift.

Her gaze dropped to the ground, the weight of the moment settling on her shoulders. 'This wasn't just her fault,' she realized. 'It wasn't just mine either.'

She had acted recklessly, driven by her pride, her desire to prove herself in a world she didn't fully understand. When she had confronted Certain Death, she had been so consumed by her anger and the accusations, so sure of her own righteousness, that she hadn't taken a moment to think about the consequences. She had been blind to the bigger picture—blind to the fact that her actions had consequences beyond just herself.

And yet, Certain Death hadn't killed her. She hadn't finished what they started. Despite all of Tenshi's provocations, despite the danger she'd put herself in, This being had chosen to offer a solution. To walk away.

Tenshi's thoughts drifted to her father. To the conversation they had just had, how his words had echoed in her mind. 'You are too reckless, Tenshi. You need to learn when to stop.' Her father had always been strict with her, but deep down, she knew he was right. 'He doesn't want me to make enemies with everyone, to burn bridges that can't be repaired.' Tenshi's chest tightened as she thought of him, how he always tried to guide her—even when she refused to listen.

She closed her eyes for a moment, her anger giving way to something softer. 'I've made mistakes. But... maybe this time, I can learn from it.'

Taking a deep breath, she looked up at Rain, the tension in her body easing just slightly. "You're right," she said, her voice quieter now, laced with a reluctant honesty. "I started this. I shouldn't have come at you like that. I should have thought about my next actions thoughtfully."

Her gaze shifted to the others in the room, and she met Marisa's eyes for a brief moment before turning back to Rain. "I acted impulsively, and... I could've gotten us all killed." She bit her lip, her words heavy with the realization of just how far she'd let things spiral. "I'm sorry."

The apology hung in the air for a moment, awkward yet sincere. It wasn't easy for Tenshi, who had always been quick to anger and slow to apologize, but in this moment, she felt the need to own up to her actions.

"I don't know if I deserve your forgiveness," she added softly, looking at the floor, "but I'll try to be better. For once, I'll listen."

Marisa raised an eyebrow at the sudden shift in Tenshi's tone but didn't say anything.

Rain's gaze softened just a little, though her expression remained neutral. She then makes a slow short three claps. "You've got a long way to go, but it's a start."

Tenshi's shoulders finally relaxed, her posture less defensive than before. She glanced over at Iku, who had been quietly watching the exchange. The older woman's expression was unreadable, but there was a flicker of something in her eyes, maybe approval or perhaps something else.

Tenshi's thoughts returned to her father, and she couldn't help but feel a quiet sense of relief. 'Maybe I'm not the person I thought I was, she thought, but I can change. I can be better.'

And for the first time in a long while, the weight on her chest seemed to lighten, just a little.

As the tension in the room began to dissipate, a sudden gust of wind swept through the chamber, followed by Shion bursting through the door. Behind her trailed a group of figures, their expressions hardened, weapons ready, and at the forefront stood Tenshi's father, Lord Nai. His presence commanded the room, his gaze immediately locking onto Rain. His eyes narrowed, taking in the dark aura that seemed to ripple around her like a living entity, and then the unmistakable scythe she held in her hand.

"You," he said, his deep voice cutting through the tense silence. "You must be Certain Death. I can feel it from here—your aura leaves no doubt."

Rain glanced over her shoulder at the newcomers, her face unreadable but calm. "And here I thought we were leaving without more interruptions," she muttered, as she adjusted her scythe.

Marisa stepped closer to her, her posture defensive. "Alright, we don't need this turning into round two," she whispered.

Rain sighed dramatically before raising her scythe. With a single, smooth motion, she cleaved the air, and a swirling portal of darkness opened before them. Its edges pulsed with ominous energy, but it beckoned like a doorway to another realm.

Rain turned to the group behind her, her gaze settling briefly on Tenshi, who still seemed shaken but resolute. "I hope this is the last time we ever meet," she said, her tone neutral but firm. "After all, I'm supposed to be retired and all." She shot a glance at Marisa. "Now, go on. You first."

Marisa, still remembering being unceremoniously kicked into the last portal, crossed her arms stubbornly. "Oh, no. Not this time. I'm not going anywhere until you go first."

Rain rolled her eyes. "Fine." But instead of stepping through herself, she suddenly reached over and scooped Marisa into her arms in a swift princess carry. The witch let out a startled yelp, her cheeks immediately flushing red.

"H-Hey! What the hell are you doing?!"

Rain smirked, her voice teasing. "Guess that made you shut up for once."

Ignoring Marisa's protests, she turned back to the others one last time. Her expression softened slightly as she met Lord Nai's sharp gaze. "Cherish your family," she said, her voice quieter now. "As long as you can. Not everybody is lucky to have one."

Without waiting for a response, Rain stepped into the portal, disappearing into the swirling darkness with Marisa still in her arms. The portal collapsed behind them, the oppressive atmosphere lifting immediately.

The silence that followed was heavy, the tension hanging in the air like a storm that had just passed. Shion looked around, visibly confused. "Wait… That's it? I thought she was here to, I don't know, end us all or something?"

Tenshi sighed, her posture finally relaxing. "No, she wasn't here to kill anyone." She glanced at Iku, who nodded in agreement. "There was… a misunderstanding. A big one. But it's resolved now."

Lord Nai's stern expression softened as he stepped closer to Tenshi. "So, Certain Death was here to negotiate?" he asked, his voice tinged with disbelief. "I never thought a being like her was capable of such a thing."

Iku stepped forward, her tone calm and measured. "It seems she is far more complex than the stories would have us believe. Her methods may be unorthodox, but she kept her word. Look." She pointed to Tenshi's neck, where the faint glow of the mark had now completely disappeared.

Lord Nai's eyes widened briefly, relief washing over his features. "The mark is gone… She kept her promise." He turned to Tenshi, his gaze softening further. Without hesitation, he pulled her into a firm embrace, surprising not only her but everyone else in the room.

Tenshi stiffened at first, unaccustomed to such open displays of affection from her father. But as the warmth of the gesture sank in, she hesitated for only a moment before wrapping her arms around him in return.

"I'm glad you're safe," Lord Nai said quietly, his voice filled with genuine relief.

Tenshi blinked, her heart swelling at the unexpected moment. "Yeah… Me too," she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

The room fell into a quiet stillness, the earlier chaos now a distant memory. For the first time in a long while, the tension between father and daughter seemed to ease, if only a little.

As Rain and Marisa arrived back at the shrine, the two of them still in their rather peculiar position—Rain holding Marisa in a princess carry—Reimu and Alice were the first to notice them from the front door.

Reimu's eyes widened for a brief moment, and then her lips curled into a mischievous grin. "Hoh, Well, well, look who's getting cozy," she said, crossing her arms. "Didn't know Marisa was into that sort of thing."

Marisa immediately groaned, her face turning an even deeper shade of red. "Alright, let me down, already," she grumbled, crossing her arms defiantly and she huffed, her embarrassment clear.

Rain, on the other hand, seemed to be thoroughly enjoying herself. She smirked down at Marisa and said, "You didn't struggle much, though. Admit it—you liked it."

Marisa turned her head sharply, avoiding her gaze. "No, I didn't!" she huffed again, still blushing furiously. "Put me down already!"

Alice, who had been standing quietly beside Reimu, noticed the playful exchange. Her eyes flicked to the position Marisa was in, and for a split second, her gaze hardened—just enough for her to quickly glance away. It was subtle, almost imperceptible, but there was a small hint of something akin to jealousy there. She kept her thoughts to herself, not giving any indication to the others.

Marisa then squirmed in Rain's arms, her cheeks turning an even deeper shade of red. "Damn it, Rain! I told you to put me down! This is so not cool! What are you, some kind of princess-carry enthusiast now?" she grumbled, still caught up in the situation.

Rain finally relented, setting Marisa down with an exaggerated sigh. "Fine, fine. you're no fun, I was just starting to enjoy it."

Marisa quickly straightened her hat and brushed herself off, she then swatted at Rain with a huff.. "Geez, you didn't have to carry me like that. I could've walked!"

"Sure you could," Rain said with a grin. "But I liked it better this way. You're surprisingly light."

Marisa sputtered, her cheeks flushing again. "That's not the point!"

Reimu leaned her broom against the wall, grinning ear to ear. "I don't know. You looked pretty comfy, Marisa. Maybe you should let Rain carry you around more often."

Alice, though silent, seemed to tighten her grip on her book ever so slightly, her lips pressing into a thin line.

"Can we stop talking about this already?" Marisa groaned, throwing her hands in the air.

Rain chuckled, leaning her scythe casually against her shoulder. "Alright, alright. But you have to admit—it was fun seeing you like that."

Marisa crossed her arms, a small pout on her face. "Don't think I'm gonna forget that," she muttered, half-joking, but there was a softness to her tone now. "I'll make sure to get my revenge, just you wait."

Rain gave her a mock serious look. "Oh yeah? I'm sure you'll find a way to get back at me eventually."

Reimu, meanwhile, just shook her head, thoroughly enjoying the banter.

Rain shifted her attention to Reimu, her silver-white hair catching the sunlight as she grinned. "Jealous, Reimu? Want a turn?"

Reimu's smirk faltered for a moment as she blinked in surprise. "What? No!" she shot back, though her tone was laced with playful annoyance. "Don't even think about it!"

Rain chuckled. "Suit yourself." She then glanced at Alice, her mischievous grin widening. "How about you, Alice? Want me to carry you around next?"

Alice's face flushed slightly, and she quickly looked away, her voice calm but firm. "That won't be necessary." She busied herself adjusting her doll's position, though the faintest twitch of her lips suggested she was flustered.

Marisa and Reimu both looked at Alice for a moment, the tension hanging in the air before it quickly dissipated. Rain just shrugged with a smile. "Guess we'll leave it for another day, then."

Alice finally cleared her throat, breaking the moment. "So… everything settled?"

Rain nodded, her expression softening. "Yeah. No more bratty celestial angry at me, no more misunderstandings. It's all done."

Reimu folded her arms, eyeing Rain with a knowing smirk. "Somehow, I doubt you got through all that without stirring up some kind of trouble."

"Well, let's go inside. I tell you all about it," Rain said, as she started walking toward the door. "It's a bit of a story."

Marisa, still slightly embarrassed but grateful for the chance to move on, nodded. "Yeah, sure," she agreed, trailing after Rain as they entered the shrine.

Reimu and Alice followed them inside, curiosity evident on their faces as they settled around the table. The atmosphere lightened as the door shut behind them, and Rain began to explain the details of what had transpired with Tenshi, her father, and the rather strange negotiation that had taken place.

As Rain spoke, her tone grew more serious, the playful banter fading. There were things to be discussed, and a few lessons learned along the way.

A/N: That's a wrap! Boy this chapter was tiring but fun to write! There is a lot of revision of scenes in this chapter but all in all, I think I arrived at what I think is a good wrap. There's a lot of development here in this chapter but I think the most interesting to write about was the one with Tenshi and her father. Anyways, thanks for reading and as I said feedback would be awesome. Oh, one last thing, there is an extra afterword in Ao3 where it talks about concept arts and all, which contains images, I recommend you check it out!