A/N: This chapter will contain a lot of hints and information. As always some of the hints are present in the past chapters. Though a reminder that some of characters are a bit unreliable in their information. So it is up to you who to trust on their take. They maybe are correct or incorrect perhaps even half-right. Anyways, thank you for reading and maybe you can piece together the clues about what's to unfold in the upcoming chapters.
Hakurei Shrine
This place is nice and quiet. One can enjoy the serene atmosphere and have a nice cup of tea by the porch of the shrine. All while enjoying the view the shrine has to offer. Indeed this is the best place for such people.
Reimu said that no trouble will come to Rain if she just stay here. Hence, why she was grounded in the first place.
'No trouble, my foot!' Rain mentally said as she and the two sudden visitors sat at the table.
The silence between them is quite awkward as only the sound of the sipping of the tea could be heard.
"Ah, this tea is great. It beats the one served at Hell. Really perfect for those who are working. Hmm... maybe I should call in my other two selves so they too can enjoy such a tea?" The woman with the modern appearance said as she contemplates but eventually decided not too as seeing how it would be too crowded.
'She's way too hard to read. Just who are these people?' Rain said as she takes a sip of her own tea.
"Ah, my bad. If the rumors are true then you don't remember me at all. Makes me kind of sad that you don't. Oh well, at least this time we're having a proper introduction. So allow me to introduce my name. I'm Hecatia Lapislazuli, I handle the Hells of the moon, earth, and otherworlds. In other words, I'm its goddess."
Hecatia Lapislazuli [Goddess of Hell]
A somehow eccentric god who governs many Hells. Despite her appearance and personality, she is but a different level and capable of unique schemes.
"Well, over here is my friend. Junko. She's a little salty about our plan not working out as intended but she'll get over soon." Hecatia gave a smirking smile.
"Ugh... that's not how friends introduce each other." The one called Junko remarked. "As she has said, I'm Junko. I'm just being dragged here by her and to satisfy my own curiosity. I'm a being capable of ending you if I will it." Though that may sound a like a threat this is her way of introducing herself.
Junko [Sagacious Spirit]
A somewhat divine spirit that is capable of purifying anything. She's not the type to beat around but instead goes straight to the point. It is said that she is fueled by her own pure fury that she can be ruthless at times.
Looks like Reimu was half-right about what she said that Rain would meet.
So the pressure that Rain was feeling was because these two are apparently beings that pose immense threat. She made the right decision to humor them instead of fight now, talk later.
"There's no need to introduce yourself, miss Rain. After all, we have but met and I already told Junko about you. Hence, why we are here." Hecatia said, her eyes remaining locked with Rain.
"Perhaps if we have her on board at that time maybe things would have turned out different." She added as she referenced the past incident where the Lunarians are involved.
"Excuse me, but you keep telling me about how I know you...how exactly if you could tell me." Rain said with a polite tone. If what is Hecatia saying is true then it is best to not rub on her the wrong way.
"Oh my, since when did you get so humble and polite? The last time we saw each other was you giving me the grouchiest attitude of all time." She chuckled and her expression changed to a somewhat sinister smile. "It is no use retelling the events to you if none of it would make sense for now. Hmm... let's just say that you and I played a game in which you won but only by the skin of your teeth." She changes her tone at the last part seemingly hinting that she is not pleased in that outcome.
'I would be in that attitude if you keep acting that way...' Rain thought to herself.
It seems like the goddess has no plans to recount the said event to her.
"Even I still don't know how exactly she lost because she won't tell me and I can't ask you for you don't remember." Junko adds in as she too might have been curious about that.
"Ah, no use in dwelling in the past. So let's get to the point. So tell me, how do you feel about those people in the moon?" Hecatia changes the topic and asks Rain a question.
Trying to lie about it would not do her any good. So she answered.
"If you are asking about the Lunarians then I'd say they are full of crap and annoys me the most. They haven't change at all, did they?" Rain's words were filled with hate and annoyance that even her eyebrows almost meet each other.
This answer makes Hecatia smile and Junko to nod with agreement. For these two also hates the Lunarians. Perhaps the reason for their visit to her is connected to that question.
"They haven't. So welcome to the Lunarian haters club and that's also why we are here. To let you know that you aren't the only one that thinks that way." Hecatia is starting to reveal the reason why as they won't just be here to say that.
"What she meant was if you are willing to help us. You are able to reduce their soldiers' morale that only a few moon rabbits remain as soldiers." Junko cuts in and even tells what she once did. Though is that really true? How and why would she do that?
What they are implying is that they may have plans against the Lunarians that they have come to recruit her for help. The question is will she agree to it or not? She may have regained about a memory that gives her that feeling and experience to hate them but that doesn't mean her hate is enough to actually do harm. In her current state she would just ignore them except should they try to provoke her or even to the point of actually trying to harm her or anyone she cares about. So her answer for that question would be.
"I'm afraid I can't give an answer just yet. What you said maybe is true but perhaps there is a reason for me doing that but without me remembering then it will feel like I'm just saying yes to satisfy you to which I don't like to do." Rain states her answer to them.
That would mean she's not saying her answer just yet but will the other two will take this as an answer?
Hecatia's smile didn't fade and Junko didn't budge either. Either way that is her final answer and nothing will change.
"As expected of you. Even without your memories you remain wise in your decisions." Hecatia said as she somehow praised her answer.
"However..." She paused as she added. "We can't leave that quickly, no? So, how about this? You play a game with me and Junko. Sounds good?" She shoots a short grin to her and this time she won't take 'no' for an answer.
Rain could feel that grin means something. This eccentric god is up to something and declining would be just a waste of time. So she agrees.
"Sure, since you insist. What game would it be?"
Hecatia, delighted by her swift answer replies. "We'll go by what the others always do and that would be the 'Battle of Bullets' but of course I'll be adding a few twist in it."
That kind of duel is not suitable for Rain as she has yet able to create or use such projectiles to use as bullets. However, saying that as a reason would not change the game. In fact, Rain herself has been wanting to participate in such a battle. Maybe this will serve as her first battle to better understand it. She already saw how the others go at it and already read the mechanics. Even if she is not qualified. She will try and give it a go.
"And what are those twist?" Rain asks.
Hecatia raises a finger and replies. "It won't be fun if I tell you about it. It will be revealed just before we start."
"Hecatia, what are you planning?" Junko herself asks her friend as she too does not know what she is thinking. Originally, they were just here to visit and see if what they are looking for is really here and ask her if she is willingly to lend a hand against the Lunarians. It would just be a bonus if she agrees to help them.
Hecatia turns her head to Junko and simply replied. "Like I said, we're here to have fun and it would be a shame if we just left early, no?"
Again that reason but she too could tell that there's more to just to have fun. She might as well see what is in store for the one that once got away in her Hell.
"So when do we start?" Rain asks as making the Hakurei Shrine as the playing field would be bad considering that said bullets are still able to do damage to the surroundings. Take Marisa's Master Spark. Anything it touches would be devastated.
"Right after you shake my hands." Hecatia said while still wearing that grin on her face as she extends her hand to her. "Nothing like a friendly shake of hands to start the game." She added.
Hecatia's hand is reaching out to Rain. Waiting to be shook. Somehow it is like dealing with the devil who wears a devilishly grin that will steal your soul once you accept that handshake.
She stares at it for a few moments before finally moving her hand to shake it. In just a matter of seconds she shook it and after the precise three shake. A blinding flash of light came forth and there was little to no time for Rain to react. She could only brace herself for what's about to happen next as the light seemingly swallowed her and everything.
Some time later
The shrine was awfully quiet. Too quiet for Reimu as she has just returned. Right after her information gathering at the village. She went to shop for the food that she plans to have Rain cook for them but when she arrived no one greeted her. Usually Rain is out in the porch sitting quietly as if enjoying the serenity.
Reimu has already turned the whole shrine upside down in search for her but she is nowhere to be found. At first, Reimu thought that Rain snuck out but that is not how she thinks and is not the type to do so. Though, she did noticed that there are three servings of tea at the table which was almost empty. She is starting to get worried as she is now sure that Rain was not alone.
So she went to find Aunn as she may have an answer to what happened. However, the Komainu has no idea that other people have been here as she was resting. Why? Because Rain told her so and it seems like Aunn likes what she suggested so this happened.
Reimu could only shake her head in annoyance at the timing and what's even worse is that even the seal crystal is missing. This is what made her more anxious as she doesn't know what could have happened. Did Rain found out about it? Did she took it? Several scenarios ran through her mind but the answer remains vague no matter what she thinks.
"Just what in the world happened?" She could only say to herself as she continues her search for clues.
Then it clicked to her mind that there are others that she can ask besides Aunn. She readies her gohei as she walks to the direction of a giant tree where the three fairies lives.
Hakugyokorou
Youmu is taking a short break from her training. Tomorrow is the day where she will show Rain the fruits of her training from her advice. She's training non-stop eversince she made that offer for a proper duel and receiving such advise.
She even asked her master, Yuyuko to tell her more about Rain. Though Yuyuko gave her a hard time as some answers are vague or not useful at all. All she knows is that Rain is her master's friend and once tended the zen garden like her. Apparently, Rain likes flowers and has even used her sword techniques to masterfully trim the plants in the garden. They both have one thing in common though and that would be she and Rain are unpaid garderers. That said, Rain is just helping out.
She looks at her sheathed sword and went into deep thinking.
'I may not win but I don't plan on losing face. This upcoming duel would be an honor to my clan and to hone my experience more. Master himself would be doing the same if he is in my situation.' Youmu exhales a sigh after that.
She's in deep thought that she didn't quickly noticed Yuyuko standing behind her with a casual smile.
"You really are giving your all in this upcoming duel." Yuyuko said as she gives her servant a gentle pat in the head.
"L-Lady Yuyuko! Sorry, I was spacing out..." Youmu replied.
"Have you already figured on how to beat Rain?"
Youmu slowly shakes her head and replied. "Not the slightest, all I know is how she can read my moves and use it to her advantage." Youmu recalls their short yet meaningful spar. The way Rain was able to counter her moves by just looking shows how much experience she holds.
"I already told you back then that you'll lose if you decide to cross swords with her. So I'll ask you Youmu what have you noticed with her swordmanship style?" Yuyuko asked her as if giving her a clue in the form of a question.
"Swordsmanship style?" Youmu ponders as she recalls those moments. Rain may not have shown everything but she does indeed saw a thing or two.
"Yes, why do you think she's able to counter yours?"
"Hmm..."
What could Yuyuko mean by that? Youmu uses all of her thinking for this question. A few minutes have passed but she can't seem to grasp an answer to that question.
Yuyuko smiled at her and said. "Looks like you don't know. All right, I'll give you the answer and some facts. You'll make me a delicious dish after this. Okay?" For once, Yuyuko's playful personality switched to a different one.
Youmu nods and listens to her with all ears.
"The reason was because she already fought with the same style. Didn't I already told you that Youki dueled with her?" That was obvious from the get-go as Youmu is taught by Youki.
"But that's not all." Yuyuko added. "The main reason is that Youki tried to replicate her own swordstyle which eventually led to the Konpaku Swordsmanship Style. Rain's sword style is comprised of many different sword styles that she combines to make a unique and different style. In other words, Youmu..." Yuyuko paused as the look on the garderner's face begins to change. "Your style or rather the Konpaku Swordsfighting Style originally came from Rain. Youki said that it was a style that could rival even the future generation of swordsmen and it would be a waste not to try and modify it."
Youmu was quite astonished from this revelation. To think that such a thing is possible. There is just one thing bothering her and that would be...
"Um...lady Yuyuko? Why did Master wanted to defeat Rain? I don't think he just wants to get even with her?" She feels like there is something more. To which she is right as Yuyuko smirked at her.
"Do you really want to know?"
What could that be? Youmu is more intrigued at the past of her master which may shed some light to his sudden disappearance. So she slowly nods to Yuyuko who was still smirking with confidence.
"Alright. The answer is quite simple. He is..." She paused as she lifts a finger up. Somehow she is intentionally doing this to tease Youmu who is eagerly waiting.
"...He is in love with her."
There was a mere moment of silence before there was a reaction.
"Eh? Eh!?" Youmu could not help but react strongly to that.
Yuyuko gave a few chuckles and said. "Hard to believe is it? It was just supposed to be a rivalry at first but as they keep on dueling each other. Youki developed such feelings for her. Now, don't ask me how as I'm not him to answer that clearly but it is so obvious. I wouldn't even be surprised if he left just to find ways to beat her. After all, he did promised that."
"But! Lady Yuyuko! Master was so uhm... er... " Youmu can't say such words to her own master. Just his mental image appearing makes her shiver.
"I know. The Youki you know was just him being him but once you mention Rain. He'll get excited like you've never seen before. Me and Yukari would have tea as we watch the two duel everytime. It almost became like a tradition or it already did?" She happily narrates.
"Erm...but did Rain acknowledge master's feelings?" Youmu followed a question.
"Ooh! Now that's a good question but you already know the answer, hmm?" Yuyuko has point and she continued. "Did you know that he confessed during their duel? Haha, almost caught Rain off guard with that. She was too red to fight back once she know that Youki wasn't joking. Of course, she still won that duel and rejected him. She then stated that only those that can defeat her in a proper duel can take her hand in marriage. Apparently, Rain said that this idea came from someone else and jokingly said this just to make him give up. Though, that backfired and made Youki more determined."
"Ah, if Rain would just stop being indecisive. She can decide swiftly and precision with anything except love... She can't up make up her mind..." Yuyuko said with a soft smile on her face as she looks up in the night sky.
A mental image of Rain and Youki appeared. Each wearing a smile on their faces. She misses those nights where they will dance into the night and Yuyuko is there to enjoy the spectacular show.
As Yuyuko keeps on talking about the past. A gap appears just behind her and then emerges her friend who gave her a smiling greeting.
"Speaking off. Yukari care to tell Youmu some tips for her upcoming duel with Rain?" Yuyuko said as she turns around.
"Hmm..." Yukari seems to be contemplating but then easily reached a conclusion. "Why not? It may buy her more time before actually losing." Yukari seems to be quite confident at this statement.
Youmu's courage takes a hit at those words even more so when even her mistress agrees.
"Yup, she'll lose but not quickly." Yuyuko chuckles.
Youmu could only whimper as her comment and reaction. She too knows that she is bound to lose but despite knowing that she will give her all and make the legendary swordsman remember her as someone that is worthy to clash swords with just like her master.
Yukari looks at Youmu with observing gaze before opening her mouth to give her some advices in facing Rain.
"When facing her. Stay focus. She'll make you lose your composure by many actions and one of them is taunting you. Don't attack blindly or she'll return it to you with her counter moves. She'll likely use the same moves she used when facing Youki as her mind will trigger a certain memory involving it."
Yukari knows all this as she has been observing the duel between Youki and Rain several times that she noticed that the same moves are used in that duel. Only changing when Youki manages to have a breakthrough to the said moves. She's seen it many times that she even concluded that it is like Rain is training Youki and that occured to Yuyuko as well.
"When that happens, be careful as she'll change her stance. This is the part where it gets tricky. She'll go on offensive on you, one wrong move and she'll get you. The key here is to keep up with her rhythm and find an opening. You'll see what I mean when you get there. Think of it as a pattern like bosses in games. Hmm... I think she does that deliberately to trick her opponents or maybe just to Youki?"
The last part of Yukari's advice confused Youmu as she doesn't know what those meant.
"That's all for me. There's more but saying too much would make your fight boring as you know what to expect." She turns her head to Yuyuko and is expecting something. To which her ghost friend slowly nods to.
"Oh, Youmu. Be sure to keep an eye out on one of Rain's technique. She's quite not eager to tell us how it is done and we only seen it once. It happened in one of their duels and Youki explains it to me that when he is about to land a hit on Rain. He somehow felt uneasy and was paralyzed for a second. Which eventually led to him being vulnerable and thus lost the match." Yuyuko is trying to recall that moment and then continued. "In our side, we see him just standing there like he is frozen. Youki added that he saw a vision of him landing an attack to her but only for Rain to counter it with a lethal blow but that didn't happened yet, hence the vision. He said it is like seeing his own death or somehow a warning that if he continues that will happen to him. A premonition of death."
Youmu could only gulp in that statement as the words used are pretty heavy and scary for her. What more if she comes face to face with the said technique?
Yuyuko smiles after that. "That's not even her ace in the hole. She didn't like that I told her to name her techniques as she said she have like a tons of them and naming each one is too troublesome. After the duel. I asked her about it and she said it is a technique under experimental phases. She even let me name it!"
"Probably because you keep pestering her about naming it." Yukari chimes in and earns a pouting face from Yuyuko.
"What name did you gave it Lady Yuyuko?"
Yuyuko smirked at her and explains. "It's a move that probably needs her to counter the enemies attack and when that enemy thinks they have the upper hand this move would ensure that they are dead wrong. A decisive counter blow that could end an enemy in just one strike. 'Death Counter' is its name." She proudly said.
"Death Counter..." Youmu repeated it and wonders how will she fare against it. Leaving her in deep thoughts.
"Just where have you been Yukari? I was expecting you to come earlier and why does Rain not remember anything? Did something happened during her adventures?" Yuyuko asks her friend as she learns this from Youmu who recounted her encounter with Rain.
The gap yokai waves her hand and replied. "Oh, just me dealing with curious cats. Nothing special. As for your other question, I know too little to say anything about it and I'm already on the case. You don't need to worry. She'll remember you..." She seemingly paused and softly uttered. "Just not now for your own good."
"What was that?"
"Hmm? Nothing. I brought you food by the way." Yukari produces a gap and what came out next is an item that is called a "bento".
"Don't try to eat it all this time. Open it first. Those things are pretty hard to get." Yukari said as she hands it over.
"Ooh! It's another one of those items that contains delicious foods! You really know how to make me happy, Yukari!" Yuyuko gladly accepts the gift while ignoring the last part of her friend's words and smiles.
Back at the shrine
"Talk you three." Reimu says as she sounded furious.
The three fairies were sitting in seiza position and their faces seems to clearly indicate that they've been quite cooperative or rather was forced to be.
"Uh, we only just saw Marisa came by and that's it." Sunny said.
The two fairies nodded in agreement but Reimu didn't buy this statement.
"Marisa? But I can tell that there's one more tea served so at least there's another one. You guys are not lying, are you?" She taps her gohei which made the three fairies flinch.
They quickly shakes their head in unison. Making Reimu sigh in disappointment.
"If you three don't know then who else could?"
Suddenly, Clownpiece showed up. Her face seems a bit gloomy and didn't contain her usual spunk.
"Piece? You look a bit sad." Luna said as they noticed the hell fairy's face.
"You know something don't you?" Reimu said and looks at her with a piercing gaze.
"Er...um...I..." She seems to be reluctant to say it.
"Say it, the more time we waste here. The less I could do something."
Clownpiece shakes her head and smack her own face with her own two hands.
"A-actually. Lady Hecatia and her friend is the one who took miss Rain away." She said and the reason why she was reluctant was because Hecatia is her boss. She might have think that telling Reimu about this feels like betraying Hecatia.
"What?!" Reimu exclaimed as she unwillingly raised her voice while the three fairies was surprised to hear so.
"What do they plan to do to her?" Reimu bombards her questions.
"I...I don't know. Really! I just happen to overhear them. I didn't know lady Hecatia is coming."
Reimu then gave a heavy sigh as she knows that this fairy is not that much of a bad egg.
"Just tell me where they brought her."
Clownpiece nods her head and replied. "To where I used to live and stay... in Hell."
Everybody was silent for moment.
"Which one?" Reimu asks as she grips her gohei.
She's been to Hell before, that namely the Avici. It was not a pleasant place for sure. But being in whatever Hell, it sure is going to be bad.
Moriya Shrine
Sanae the wind priestess is seen sweeping the front of the shrine. Though she is doing her duty it seems like her mind is on a different matter.
"What would I do if she really comes?" She uttered to herself.
She seems troubled about something as she expels a deep sigh.
"Lady Kanako and Lady Suwako really likes to rain on my parade. Just when I excitedly told them about meeting the Legendary Yokai Exterminator in person. They are not surprised at all and even told me they know her. Even worse is the supposed hidden truth about her. How can they just tell me that if it was supposed to be a super secret? Maybe they are just messing with me? Uhhh, what do I do when I meet her again? No, no, she said she'll come so we will definitely meet again." Sanae continues to mutter her thoughts about yesterday's talk.
Yesterday
"I'm telling you I met her! She's such a beautiful and nice person!" Sanae excitedly exclaimed in front of the two gods that manage the Moriya Shrine.
They were having a nice cup of tea over this conversation. Sake would have been served but Sanae insisted that they drink tea for some reason.
"Hmm? Care to tell me how she looks?" Asked by a blue haired woman.
She has dark red eyes and wears an elaborate red shirt with long white sleeves. There's a round mirror over the center of her chest. Behind her is a large twisting rope circle shimenawa and shide. She wears a long black skirt with a red flower print hem. She is the goddess of wind and rain. Her name is Kanako Yasaka.
"Um, well she has a silver-white hair and two different colored eyes which is red and green. She wears an unusual samurai armor which really looks heavy! Also she wears a black headband with black half wings in the shape of a butterfly sitting on the left side of the headband." Sanae managed to describe Rain perfectly as Kanako recognized her.
"Oh, you are talking about her? Interesting, I read the news and didn't thought that she'll also be here. No, she would be here as I remember her telling us about it." Kanako said as she seems to know or has met Rain before.
"Who are we talking about?" This was asked by the other god with medium length blond hair and grey eyes.
She is wearing a light brown wide-brimmed hat with two frog eyes on the top. Her dress consist of a short simple purplish-blue dress with a frog print design, large white sleeves stitched onto the torso, and a white collar. She also wears white kneehighs and black shoes. She is the original god of the Moriya Shrine and her name is Suwako Moriya.
"Remember that time an army is right in front of our shrine? Yeah, her. Don't tell me you forgot?"
"Oh you mean, that army leader? Hey, at least she's nice enough to talk first." Suwako remembers that time and made a remark.
"Are you implying something?" Kanako raises an eyebrow.
"Uh-huh, you know what I mean."
"Grr... you don't want me to start, Suwako." She crosses her arms as she flaunts the snake-representing shimenawa to her as this is a symbol about the fact that Kanako defeated Suwako in that great war.
"Psssh, that won't work on me. Besides I already ate some of the offerings..."
"You what?!" Kanako raises her voice as she leans her own face to the other god. Facing each other at this point they are going to argue again so Sanae decides to step in.
"Please stop you two. I'd like to know more about what you mean."
The two looked at her and eventually things calmed down as the two both take a sip of their tea.
"Looks like Sanae wants a story." Suwako said in a jokingly manner.
"Well, if she insist." Kanako added and then looks at Sanae. "The girl you just met is no ordinary person. We may have met her only a few times but she is someone that none of us could go against if she were to become our enemy. If that rumor is true." She seems to know about the reason why but there will explanations as Sanae listens.
They maybe always arguing but they both do care about Sanae. This is where they both get along.
The first to speak was Kanako as she clears her throat.
"It was a very long time ago. Faith to us is still abundant. I remember that she is the only one that wears that armor that when we first saw that time is quite the sight as I can tell that it is able to inflict fear to its enemies and even to her subordinates just by looking at it. Now, Sanae what they don't know is that their leader is a female and she hid her identity with that armor of hers. She let us see her true identity to earn our trust and approval. What's more intriguing is that she is cooperative behind that armor." Kanako is able to recall their deal and finds Rain to be a very interesting individual with a unique mindset.
"She's right, Sanae. I supposed you have questions?" Suwako asked her.
Sanae was quite in for a treat as this is like a history class but with twist.
"Oh, I'm just wondering when was that and how come you won't stand a chance against her? You two are the greatest gods that I've seen!"
The two shares a laugh as they listened to Sanae's question and reaction.
"That's because of that sword of hers or at least that's what I've been told. It may be a different weapon." Suwako answers her. Followed by a nod by Kanako.
"We don't want to believe such a thing existed but it is better to be safe than sorry. No god has ever seen that weapon or perhaps have lived to tell about it but rumors says it is capable of killing a god with just a single strike. They say it is a weapon crafted by the gods that she keeps should the need to use it arises. Hence, probably why most of the gods didn't try to do things that will make them meet the weapon itself. Maybe it is also capable of ending cursed gods." Suwako was quite serious when she said that.
Rumors about it spread to the gods and they were highly alert about such a weapon. They developed a fear about it but such fear is said to only have made the weapon itself stronger even until now such fear exist which was just demonstrated by the two gods in front of Sanae.
But how did Rain ended up with such a weapon? Did she made it or is she the guardian of such a weapon? If not and it really was made by gods then why did they make a weapon that could threaten them?What does it look like and should she also worry about it since she is a living god.
These questions keeps on popping to Sanae's mind that she wants answers to the person herself.
"As for your other question. The time itself was quite long ago as I said earlier," Kanako said. "Though she is there under the direct orders from the Emperor himself as he personally chose her. Ah, yes. I finally remember." Kanako finally remembers that timeline. "It was during the first unification of Japan, buddhism is not yet here at that time. She said she is there to get rid of a rumored large band of bandits hiding just next to the lake. She's here to ask permission and blessing for her men to cross."
"Like I said, a nice general. They could have just crossed without going to us but she didn't." Suwako interjected.
"Hmph!" Kanako brushes off that same remark Suwako did and said. "She's a real negotiator I tell you. I still remember what words she said."
"I won't offer you my faith of worship but I can offer you theirs." Suwako said with a stern and serious voice mimicking how Rain supposedly have said it.
"Darn, that was a good line and all but she has a point. Our worshippers and visitors increased. I don't know how she did but she kept her word." Kanako clicks her tongue which she also did back then.
"Should I have not invited her to come then?" Sanae asks the two as she is rather confused if they are in good terms with her or not.
"It is the right call. That makes our next meeting the fourth one. As the second time we met her is that she is with the Shogunate. People seemed to revere her more and even respect her. Including the big shots themselves. She still hides in that armor of hers to protect her identity." Kanako continues her narration as Sanae takes a sip of her tea. Listening like a kid being told with a bed time story.
"Then there's the third time where she no longer wears such armor. Only a few of it remains is being weared by her. This time she is on the run and took shelter in our shrine for a while. We don't know the details but people are after her and not just humans but yokai too. At our initial meeting I thought she was a god as well as I can sense that she has a good amount of faith in her. But I don't have much information to actually confirm it." Kanako stated.
"I wonder what's the reason and why does she have to run if she has the weapon that could even end gods..." Sanae said as she finishes her cup of tea.
"Maybe it doesn't exist in the first place or other reasons that only she can answer. The tengu's newspaper says that she doesn't remember anything about her past. That is why inviting her here is a good move, Sanae." Suwako said as she moves to her to give her a headpat several times. Since Sanae was sitting, Suwako was able to do so with ease as her height is fairly small.
"Just remember to be yourself and not bombard her with questions about this matter." Kanako gives her a reminder.
Maybe these two have a plan in their mind as to why they want her to come.
"I heard that you said the Shogunate. I've read and been taught in that particular history! May I know what's her position or her role there?" She keenly asks.
"Oh that?" Kanako answers. "You'll change your way of speaking to her once we tell you." She observes Sanae who seems very excited about this and it looks like there is no need ask her if she really wants to know.
"Alright then, as you know she was a general back then and now..."
Just as Kanako is about to say it. Sanae's flashback was disrupted by the sudden clicking of a camera.
"Ayaya, spacing out during shrine duties? That's new," Chirped by none other than the annoying journalist tengu. "Any interesting scoop you might fill me in?" This came from just above her.
"Just miss Rain saying she'll come over-" Sanae quickly covers her mouth as she finally stops spacing out.
"Ooh!" Aya quickly writes that down in her journal as swift as the wind, the moment Sanae uttered it. "When will she come?"
The wind priestess remained silent and just furiously shakes her head all while still covering her mouth much to the amusement of the crow tengu.
"I guess that's a no?" She chuckles before turning around. "Thanks for the info!" She added as she flies away.
As this is the Yokai Mountain where different yokais are seen. It is only natural to see Aya here as she is a crow tengu that lives in this mountain. Since Sanae and the two gods also lives here. This makes them as neighbors with the Tengu.
"Noooooo, I gave it away!" Sanae softly uttered.
It was not a big deal, probably. She tries to calm herself down and exhales some air.
"Now I'm intrigued to know more. Maybe I should visit the Hakurei Shrine to ask Reimu about her and maybe even get to know her more in person." She said to herself as she cheerfully smiles.
With that she continued her sweeping as she anticipates the arrival of Rain. The sun itself is quite high today as she expects this day to be a good day even with the sudden appearance of that annoying crow tengu.
Hieda Residence
Akyuu is still busy trying to find some books and other things that could lead her back to the past but to no avail. It seems like only the silk painting and the torn pages of what she wrote as her past incarnation is what left. But she can't help the feeling that she won't let that be the end as to the reason she managed to write new book was because of what she found to be her own diary which contains a lot of stories never before heard. This is what made her recognize Rain in the first place as these stories are from her or rather it was told to her by Rain herself to which she wrote down.
"These stories are her past adventures told to me. I didn't recognized her name at first and thought this would be a great writing material. I made major changes of course as I read almost all of the contents and have known that not all adventures ends happily. That is why I wrote such a book to give the other characters and the main character the happiness they deserved." Akyuu touches the diary that contains the said stories and gave a short sigh.
She then hears a knock from her door and heard her servant.
"Lady Akyuu..." Hear voice seems like she is quite scared as it was trembling. "Y-you have a visitor and she's a... yokai."
Akyuu seems to recognize who that is judging from her servant's voice as they tend to be scared whenever that visitor drops in after all the said visitor is a yokai herself.
"Thank you, you may leave us alone." She replied and she can hear the quick footsteps of her servant walking away in such a fast pace.
She gave a half suppressed sigh and said. "Please come in, miss Yukari."
However, the door did not open but instead a gap came forth in front of it and there emerges the sage of the yokai, Yukari Yakumo bearing a casual smile on her face.
"Ah, miss Akyuu. It is nice to see you again. I'm surprise you already know it was me."
Yukari could have used the door normally but she didn't. As expected from her. She could have also appear in this room but instead chose to give Akyuu's servants a scare just like last time.
Akyuu returned a smile to her and said. "Are you here for some revisions?" She asked the yokai guest.
Yukari chuckles as she hids her laugh behind her hand with her fancy gloves.
"I'm not here for that." She waves off her other hand holding fancy fan. "I heard that you are quite curious about you know who. So here I am. To give my 'new friend' some information." She gave a smile and the tone of her voice is that of a playful one.
Truth be told they have known each other for a long time but that was Akyuu's past incarnations.
Akyuu knows what this yokai meant. After all, this is how she acts and speaks. So there is no need to hide that fact. Hence, she replied.
"Yes, I am... I need to know...no, remember. What's our past connection. We're friends right?"
Yukari smiles at her and slowly nods. "Of course you are. You've seen the painting and even have your own journal relating to her. Now let me ask return your own question. Are you two friends?"
The Ninth Child of Miare looks at her with a somehow confused face but that soon turns into slight smile.
"If I'm this curious and from the way I am feeling now. Then there is no doubt... I'm her friend."
"Then it is only rightful for her friend to know what she needs to know in order to not be left out."
Yukari then begins to produce a gap where one of her hand slips in and then came out a what seemed to be compilation of papers. She walks towards her and hands in the said papers.
The papers are all but written in ink and looks very ancient. Implying that it was written a long time ago.
Akyuu handles it with care as it is very delicate due to its age. She examines it and then her eyes widen as she reads it.
"T-This is..." She could not believe that this has been preserved for a long time and even more so to be in good condition.
Yukari slowly nods to her and said. "The one you originally compiled or so to say Hieda no Are did the 'Kojiki' but the one I brought to you is the only part you need."
Hieda no Are is the one responsible for the compilation of the "Kojiki" which means "Records of Ancient Matters". This contains the myths, legends, and semi-historical accounts down to 641.
Akyuu decides to sit down and read the text from the ancient paper that Yukari gave to her.
"This is from the second volume... 'Nakatsumaki'." She recognizes as soon as her eyes read these words.
She continued reading and eventually finds what this paper is talking about.
"The descendants of the gods... Hidenori's tale of demise by divine punishment. I remember this..."
Akyuu takes a glance at Yukari who is listening to her. "A sad tale but otherwise a lesson that taught mankind the consequences of greed."
Yukari walks to her while saying. "Have you found out what you are looking for?"
"Yes," Akyuu replied, "Let me tell you the summary of this tale."
"As expected from the great chronicler. Go on, I'm all ears for such a story."
Akyuu clears her throat as she prepares to narrate.
"The story begins where Emperor Jimmu ascended to be the Emperor. During their expeditions they found a cave. But it was no ordinary cave it was full of iron and ores that very much well is a treasure trove for them. As its usefulness is very much big at that time.
Emperor Jimmu personally entered the cave and to their surprise the cave has started to collapsed. Everyone, except from the emperor himself and a few of his men are left behind. Though they seemed to have been trapped in this cave. Emperor Jimmu noticed a dragonfly who is emitting a blue light seemingly dancing in front of him. As he tried to approach it the dragonfly moves away from him but that was not the case but rather it was trying to lead him. So he followed it.
Eventually it lead him to the deepest parts of the cave. What he discovered next was a giant blue-like crystal resting at the center. He was mesmerized by it that he touched it and the crystal reacted to his touch. Revealing two more giant crystals at both sides of it. He then tries to see what is inside the crystals but it was too thick to actually see anything even though it was crystal clear. He noticed that dragonflies are gathering around the middle giant crystal and for a mere moment he saw what seemed to be a figure inside the crystal.
What happened next was the shaking of the ground. Then there emerged a new path that eventually leads to the outside of the cave. Emperor Jimmu was convinced that these giant crystals are what helped him and his men. He ordered that it would be retrieved and be brought back. To which they succeeded in doing so but took quite a long time and effort to do so.
The three crystals were then enshrined for so many decades. People were convinced that these giant crystals are lucky and was sent by the gods above to help Emperor Jimmu. Hence, it was worshipped and taken care off. No one has dared to open the crystals for they fear what lies in it or worse they'll get divine punishment. That was until the time of Emperor Ōjin where one of his men namely 'Hidenori' accidentally damaged the crystals."
Akyuu takes a short break as she takes a sip from her red cup of tea.
"What time period would make this be?" Yukari asked though she seems to know the answer.
"Yamato Period." Akyuu replied as she puts down the red tea gently.
Yukari gave a single nod in agreement and said. "Do continue."
"The crystals reacted mainly the left one and it shattered finally after so long while the others have a minor crack into it but there are also changes. The reason was maybe it has something to do with the person touching it or simply a bad luck. Because even the late Emperor Jimmu didn't dare to shatter the giant crystals for he fears that something else is inside or may have devastating consequences such as the gods being angry.
Hidenori was just a common footsoldier and to even his life is fairly common that is until today. The current Emperor will have his head for this blunder. Though what he saw inside that left giant crystal will save his life and also changed it. What he found was a unique armor. It was dyed in black and crimson color and the what seemed to be a helmet has a terrfying design. There's no way to see who is behind that helmet if one would wear it.
He stood there with bewilderment as other people came rushing in to see what is the commotion as the shattering of the giant crystal is loud enough for everyone to know. People who also saw the armor has the same face as he is. Hidenori who was overcomed with curiosity, reaches his hands to the mysterious armor. Then, without any warning it latched to him and he and the armor became one. Everyone was startled by it but calmed down as nothing else have happened. There's no trace of Hidenori as if he was replaced by the armor itself, from head to toe.
The Emperor himself has come down in person to see what has happened. When he first saw the shattered giant crystal he was shocked and turns pale to thinking what could happen next. Then he saw Hidenori who was in that armor. He didn't recognized him at all until told by the other people. He quickly ordered Hidenori to remove the armor but when Hidenori tries so, he couldn't. The emperor told his men to forcefully open the armor even if it means cutting it down. But all the weapons became dull or even broke once they touched the armor.
The emperor was astounished from what he just saw and ordered his men to stop. Maybe he saw that this armor was a gift from the gods or even maybe the armor of the gods itself. But with Hidenori inside, how can he utilize it? It was simple, use the man inside the armor. The emperor promised Hidenori many things to which he quickly agreed to for declining now would be bad."
"What could he possibly want with such armor?" Yukari asks.
"In war and other things. Even in propaganda. Saying that such armor gifted by the gods itself will surely make the people trust the current emperor's powers. This is what actually happens next in the tale." Akyuu replied.
"I see, I can already see why you said something about greed. Very, well then. Let me hear more."
Akyuu nods and continues her narration.
"People regarded Hidenori as a hero and made many praises about him. Hidenori himself is easily swayed by this, not knowing that it was only because of the armor that he gained such fame and name. As for the armor itself, they already have a name for it. There's this time where Hidenori and his men are fighting a group of bandits and there was a storm back then. The armor is not even affected by the heavy rain and then a stray lightning struck the armor. Hidenori was unfazed and unaffected by it. Instead the armor was enveloped by the lightning, seemingly absorbing it as it crackles around. Just this sight was enough for the bandits to quickly surrender in fear. Thus the name of the armor became known as the 'Susanoo Armor '.
As it got named the right giant crystal is then shattered and then it reveals a large weapon that no one could pull out. If the armor was from the gods then this weapon too.
Hidenori was called to pull the weapon out but he too failed. Upon closer inspection, the weapon stuck in the other giant crystal is too big for a normal human to carry nor use. It was then confirmed that the weapon is a sword that has a blade that is so sharp that just coming contact into it could slice anything all except the Susanoo armor. The sword was temporary called the Sword of the gods.
The only remaining giant crystal still intact is the one at the center and after the left crystal has crumbled, this one revealed its contents without shattering.
With the emperor at the scene. They saw a figure inside became clear. It was not an armor nor a weapon but rather a person. Frozen and sleeping peacefully, it has a long white silver hair that almost reaches to its ankle. It has the characteristics of a female body hence, why it is a she. She was wearing nothing else so everything is laid bare.
At that time, Hidenori was gradually being consumed by his own greed. Certain thoughts have come to his mind like how he has become more powerful than the emperor or anyone else in this land."
Yukari then asks another question. "It has crossed my mind that, since Hidenori is stuck in the armor. How can he survive in there without any food or water?"
"That would be because of the armor itself. There's no other explanation I could think off."
"What a convenient armor." Yukari says as she gave a short chuckle. "Before, I let you finish the story. I want to ask you how is this connected to your friend?"
Akyuu knows what she meant. This legend or myth is nothing but a record. She herself is not there to confirm if such story is true.
"I have the feeling that it is." She answered.
Yukari then gave an eyeing gaze to her as if contemplating something.
"I happen to know what that sword is and its name." She said.
"Really?" Akyuu said in disbelief as the name and what kind of sword it is was never revealed in the story.
"Yes, it's the same sword that actually killed Hidenori. As for what type of sword it is, I believed it is an Odachi and it has a length of at least 185 centimeters, a normal human would be instantly killed if that sword that big and long cuts him, it is quite known as a sword that needs no second hit for a single slash is just what it takes to end you. It was unique at that time as no such weapon exist yet and even the armor itself. I've seen it being used one time. Not only can it kill a god permanently but also severe a human's soul ties to the samsara." Yukari stops for moment.
"Do you know what that means?" She adds a question.
Akyuu thinks for a moment and when the answer dawns to her, she made a big gulp at her realization and answered. "To be removed from the samsara cycle means to be neither be going to Hell, Heaven, or the Netherworld when one dies. One cannot be judged by the Yama to be punished nor be enlightened to achieve nirvana. Lastly, he or she cannot reincarnate. Which means..."
"Permanent death." Yukari gave the answer and adds. "You'll be erased forever, never existing again and you have the right to be in fear if that weapon finds itself pointed to you. That weapon is currently at the possession of Rain, whether it is originally from her or not, it does not matter. What matter is the ability of that weapon as such ability is called 'Soul Breaker', this was what she uttered when used it against that man and finally its name is 'Hifuu Slaying Sword: Ōkami'."
Akyuu was silent for moment. The Hifuu may mean "Secret" but with the tale in hand the best fitting meaning would be "Sealed" or "Hidden". While Ōkami means "Great God" or "Divine Spirit". These are her thoughts as she tries to connect the meaning of the names.
If translated properly it could mean "Sealed Slaying Sword: Divine Gods".
"If you're wondering about the Susanoo armor. It has long been dismantled but it can be made whole again should the need arises. I'll tell you more once you finish the story. I can tell that we are nearing at the end." Yukari said.
Akyuu nods and continued.
"Hidenori was overcomed with greed for power. In that same moment he tried to shatter the remaining giant crystal which contains the girl. People tried to stop him but no one can. With that armor, he is invincible. No one could guess why he did that but some others say he was captivated by its beauty and wanted to rescue her. While others say he thought he would receive a greater reward should he free the girl.
Punching his way through using the armor. He managed to crack open the giant crystal. The girl was within his reach and at that moment the girl's slumber ended. Their eyes met for moment before suddenly Hidenori felt that the armor was moving by itself as the girl extends it arms as if calling the armor. In a flash Hidenori separates from the armor and was just back to himself. While the armor attached itself to the girl and they become one. The girl's long hair remained behind the helmet.
Hidenori was left in shock and the others too. The girl then effortlessly lifted the sword stuck at the ground and raised it with ease. Then it pointed it towards Hidenori. She may have sensed his greed and plans to punish him as she utters the words " Greedy thief."
The emperor's fears has finally come true as the girl itself is no ordinary human she might as well be a god. So the emperor begs for forgiveness for what he as the one in charge of Hidenori has done but the girl was not willing to hear his pleas. So he and his people prostrated before her to be spared from her wrath. The girl shakes her head slowly as she stated that the punishment is by the death of the blade she holds. Which is ironic since Hidenori would have been dead if the armor was not found but the one that also leads to his upcoming death is the armor so either way he is going to die.
He was too afraid to move and realized his mistakes too late. As the sword came down on his head. The slash was so powerful that it ended up shaking the whole area. When the dust settled, Hidenori was nowhere to be found not even a single trace of him can be seen all except the devastation of the slash of the sword has caused.
The girl then bid farewell to the emperor and left in a hurry. After a day, a raging storm then begins to assault the land. The emperor knows that this is yet another punishment for what they've done. So he and his people, went outside despite the hard rain and beg for forgiveness even if the girl was no longer present. At first there was no answer but they still continued to do so.
Then they saw the girl in the armor again. Staring at them at the air. It seems like she have heard their prayers for forgiveness. She then raises her bladed weapon and slashed at the sky. Which in an instant turned the black sky into a clear view. The rain has stopped and the sun finally shows up to shine on them once again.
They were grateful to her and they deduced that she was related to the storm god Susanoo. Since then, a shrine was built to where the formerly three giant crystals are stored. The people revered her as a merciful god who granted them protection from storms and flood."
"That's the end of the tale." Akyuu ends her narration.
"It seems so. Your whole story is great though some parts may need some revision. Ah, nevermind. It is but already written." Yukari said and implied that there are inaccuracy in Akyuu's tale.
"Now about that armor, there are three parts that are needed to it to be whole again." Yukari then opens a gap.
"First is this one," She then shows to Akyuu a somewhat a black and crimson colored body armor. There are markings and patterns at the color of crimson as the design in the armor. "This is the cuirass and the helmet or the 'Kabuto' is in your care. The final, is the one that Rain is currently wearing."
Akyuu remembers having one like Yukari have said, though she is convinced that it was just for display and antique. It has the same color as the one Yukari have just shown to her. Its design is that of an ominous one as that is the purpose of it, to be intimidating.
She then grabs the silk painting with her and Rain in it and looks at the armor. To her surprise it was not the same one as Yukari have described but then again maybe it was a different armor.
"Let's go back to answering more of your questions."
"You met her many times in your reincarnations. Hmm, I think you said back then that you always wanted to have a long lived human friend. Which you thought was imposibble and then I brought her to you."
It is true, Akyuu or rather as the Child of Miare has to start from scratch in building her relationship to others as her friends in her previous reincarnation would have aged and not remember her.
"That explains the silk painting. Maybe I didn't remember because my other past incarnations didn't get to meet her." Akyuu feels a bit sad and disappointed at herself that she had forgot, she who can remember anything that she have seen or heard once, actually forgot a very important person.
"Then is she truly human?" Akyuu asks as humans with that kind of power is unheard off.
Yukari cups her chin and replies. "I can't say so myself, we'll only get our answer if the person herself answers your question but we could make assumptions or just believe that she is human."
"Well do you believe miss Yukari?"
"Of course, I do. If she says so then I believe her. The way she acts and behaves are just like that of a human. Now, I have questions for you, it is alright if you don't know. After all, this concerns the outside world."
Akyuu was yet again curious, anything related to the outside world is worth listening to.
"You see, I read books about machines that can have their own feelings or think at their own. Even if they cannot do so from the start. It is fascinating how it works. With how the humans from the outside world thinks. It may be possible, do you think so?"
"I don't know how machines can do that but I think so too." She agrees to Yukari's statement.
"Right? Machines may also be made to look like humans and they are called 'Artificial Humans'. They are capable of what a human could do but with enhancements involved. They are also capable of storing data easily and executing commands with almost no flaws. Oh, and Ran is a different case she's much more like a computer." She chuckles.
What Yukari has began to rumble doesn't quite make sense to Akyuu as she uses words or terms that she is not familiar with. Even so, she tries to keep up with the yokai sage.
"But the most important part in them is that they can become real humans." Yukari said with a tone that seems to emphasize that last words.
"Become real?"
"Yes, they can over the course of time or through human companionship. They'll be able to develop such a thing. Which is a mystery. I'm quite interested so I bought many books about it. I can lend some to you if you are interested."
"Yes, please!" Akyuu excitedly said but this excitement died down quickly as she noticed how this topic came up. Could Yukari be trying to tell her something? She wanted to ask but Yukari is not the type to spill everything so easily and may even outright give her more puzzling hints.
"I'll hand them to you some time later. Hmm, what else do you want to know?" Yukari ponders.
So asking the right questions to which this yokai would answer honestly is the best way to do.
"How about her abilities?" Akyuu suggested.
This question is meant to actually be vague as she could get many answers to this.
"She can use magic, chi, and superb swordsmanship. Ah, let me give you the summary of it." Yukari said as she thinks for a moment and then continued. "Basically, she is capable of learning anything or is it replicate anything? I'm not quite sure myself but that is just based from my observations. She can't use magic but she studied on how to and then magically she can. Now she's a 'Magic Swordsman'. Next would be her chi manipulation and martial prowess. She studied it and now look at what she can do. Are you following me?"
Akyuu nods and comments. "If that is true then such ability is limitless and very powerful as she can learn anything she wants to. She doesn't need to worry against time as time is already on her side."
"Looks like you get it. Another thing I can't confirm just yet is if that ability is able to bend reality and fantasy itself. Say for example if she wants to learn how to kill me then she'll eventually learn how to do so. Another example is if she wants to learn how to control the boundaries then she'll be able to do it. Basically being able to mimic my own ability perfectly."
Yukari then opens up a gap and said.
"My, look at the time. We've been chatting for too long. Why don't we continue this some other time? I still need to visit one more curious cat that has stole something."
She extends a hand and added. "I'll have those back for now."
Akyuu then hands to her the cuirass and the papers that contains the tale.
"Thank you for telling me, miss Yukari." Akyuu waves goodbye to her friend, who quietly slips into the gap she just created.
'The ability to learn anything, to think that such ability exist. If Miss Yukari's ability are considered godlike then Rain's ability is probably beyond that. The only way to stop her is to end her before she is strong but that already has come to pass. Even now, she'll get stronger as time passes. It is beyond imagination on what could happen if miss Yukari's theory is correct? That would make her capable of learning anything and everything.'
She thought as she finishes her red tea. Feeling a bit of relief that she managed to remember a bit of her own past and that she has another long term friend.
Rain opens up her eyes and saw this fiery scene. Where there are blazing fires gushing out of the ground this seems like the inside of a volcano to her but that was not the case if she considers on what that goddess has said earlier. Stray cries of pain echoes throughout this place and even the wind is as hot as it could get. She also saw what seemed like humans but from the way they have chains in their neck and even other parts of the body. It seems like this place does not welcome humans that lightly.
Now that she saw that, she noticed the same chains are on her. Namely her wrist and ankle. A ball of chains is attached to it. She furrowed her eyebrows and in a swift second she severed the ball of chains which just leaves the chains itself.
"Over here, miss Rain." The voice of Hecatia said and even notices what she did. "You cut them off already? Looks like the quality of materials are really degrading due to the lack of budget..."
She looks up as it was coming from the above. There's no sky but rather rocky walls where no one can escape. This place is like a prison. She then focused her gaze to the two to which they are Junko and Hecatia that is floating just above her, looking down on her like she is just but a mere ant. That bad feeling she is having earlier has now come true. She's no longer at the shrine and judging from her surroundings she knows very well where they are.
The goddess raises both of her orbs as she says.
"Welcome to Hell... or rather-" Her stark grin turns into a menacing smile. "Welcome back to Earth's Hell."