A/N: Here comes the next chapter, notice how they are getting longer? Anyway, this chapter still follows the memory plot albeit with more reveal and some other side plot. You'll see what I mean later on.

The day had begun with an unexpected tumble, but now Rain found herself standing face to face with Eiki Shiki, a Yama tasked with judging the souls of the dead. The encounter was as strange as it was unsettling. Eiki's gentle smile contrasted with the serious nature of her words as she spoke of Rain's karmic balance, which teetered ever so slightly into the negative despite the darkness of her past.

"Your karma is leaning toward the negative," Eiki began, her voice steady and measured. "However, it still remains neutral for reasons I cannot entirely explain. For someone with such a… checkered past, this is unusual."

Rain furrowed her brow, her mind already racing. She had long since lost track of who she had been, and any trace of her former self remained buried under layers of amnesia. To hear it from someone so detached, like Eiki, was almost disorienting.

"I see," Rain said slowly, her voice carrying a hint of irritation. "So, what exactly are you trying to tell me?"

Eiki leaned forward slightly, her eyes studying Rain with a quiet intensity. "I simply wish to remind you of the importance of balance. Your actions, whether good or ill, influence the scales of your karma. If you continue down a path of righteousness, it will tip the balance in your favor. But if you stray toward the darkness, it will only draw you further from your potential."

A brief silence passed between them before Eiki added, her tone softening, "You remind me of someone, actually. Someone I know well. Youmu Konpaku, the half-ghost swordswoman. Her attire, your hair color, even the hairband you wear—it's all so familiar to me."

Rain blinked, momentarily thrown off by the comparison. "I get that a lot," she said, shaking her head with a sigh. "When I first met Marisa and Alice, they both pointed it out. The only difference, I think, is the fact that Reimu knows Youmu is short. You're not going to make the same mistake, are you?"

Eiki chuckled, a soft, knowing sound that did little to soften the weight of her words. "No, of course not."

The trio that had accompanied Rain, standing a little farther off, exchanged glances. Marisa, always one to speak her mind, grinned and leaned forward.

"Yeah, you're like a cooler version of Youmu," Marisa teased, her voice tinged with the usual playful sarcasm that marked her personality.

Rain groaned, slumping her shoulders as if the weight of the comparison was too much to bear. "That again? Could you just not?" she muttered, but it was clear from the way Marisa was grinning that she wasn't about to let it go anytime soon.

Alice, with a quiet sigh, crossed her arms. "It seems like you two are always involved in something, Rain." Her tone wasn't particularly harsh, but it carried the weight of many times spent observing Marisa's antics.

Reimu, on the other hand, stood with her arms crossed, her usual frown present as she listened to Eiki's words. She had always found the Yamas' lectures tiresome, and this one was no different. Her patience for long-winded talks was in short supply, and she found herself already dreading what might come next. "How long is this going to take?" she muttered under her breath, knowing full well that Eiki's lectures were rarely brief.

Eiki's smile didn't waver, though her eyes softened as she addressed them, her words now directed more at Rain than anyone else. "This isn't just about you, Rain. It's about your nature, your very soul." She paused, her expression becoming more contemplative. "There's something… missing. Your soul, it's incomplete in some way, and I can't quite place what it is. At times, it flickers like a flame that can't quite catch. It's as if there's a part of you that's missing—something vital."

Rain's eyes narrowed, trying to process what Eiki had said. "Are you telling me I'm broken?" Her voice, though tinged with defensiveness, held an underlying curiosity.

Eiki gave a soft, thoughtful hum. "Not broken, no. But incomplete. It's possible that this is why your balance between good and evil is so off-kilter. You may have a soul, but it doesn't seem whole. Perhaps this is why your karma has yet to find its equilibrium."

A deep silence hung between them, each of the group's members lost in their own thoughts. Marisa scratched the back of her head, trying to make sense of what was being said. "So, what's that mean, exactly? What's missing from her?"

Eiki gave a small shrug. "I don't know yet. The missing piece is elusive, but it's there. Until it is found or restored, your karma will remain unsettled."

Reimu exhaled slowly, irritation creeping into her voice. "This is all so... vague. It sounds like one of your usual cryptic riddles."

Alice, always more composed, nodded. "You do have a way of making things sound more complicated than they need to be."

Marisa, unable to resist, leaned over to Rain with a teasing grin. "Cooler Youmu, maybe you should start carrying around a phantom next. That'd really complete the look."

Rain only groaned louder. But deep down, something about Eiki's words resonated with her. Something was missing, and it felt like the key to understanding who she truly was lay hidden just out of reach.

Eiki stood firm, her Rod of Remorse lightly tapping the wooden floor of the shrine. Her gaze remained fixed on Rain, though there was no malice in her expression. "It is a shame we never crossed paths during your time as Certain Death," Eiki began. "Back then, you were stationed in Earth's Hell under Emna Naraka's jurisdiction, while I was assigned to Gensokyo's Hell. I had always heard of your exploits, even from other realms of the underworld. You were the talk of Hell, a legend among legends. Even here in Gensokyo's Hell, your reputation preceded you."

Rain blinked, absorbing the unexpected weight of Eiki's words. "You've… heard of me? Even back then?"

Eiki nodded. "Of course. I occasionally visited Earth's Hell, but our timing was unfortunate. You were either away on missions or otherwise unavailable. Even so, stories of your prowess reached far and wide." She paused, her eyes narrowing slightly. "And now, here on the surface, your legend persists, albeit under a different name. The Legendary Yokai Exterminator Rain."

Marisa let out a low whistle, her grin widening as she crossed her arms. "That again, you're really are famous, Rain."

Rain rolled her eyes. "I don't even remember any of it, so don't go making a big deal out of nothing."

Eiki ignored the exchange and continued. "It is said you were on par with the first Hakurei Shrine Maiden during your time. The two of you were... quite the formidable duo."

Reimu's eyes narrowed at the mention of her predecessor. "The first Hakurei, huh? Let me guess—you're about to tell me she was better than me."

Eiki gave a slight smile, clearly unbothered by Reimu's defensive tone. "Indeed, the first Hakurei was a remarkable individual. Her power was unparalleled, and her dedication was relentless. By comparison… well, let us say that the current generation has much to learn."

Reimu's scowl deepened, but before she could retort, Marisa burst into laughter. "Ha! Called it! Reimu, maybe you're just subpar 'cause you don't train enough. Admit it, you're more into tea and lazing around."

"I don't need to prove anything," Reimu shot back, her voice laced with annoyance.

Alice, ever the composed one, chimed in with a dry remark. "You're lucky the first Hakurei isn't around anymore. She'd likely give you a thorough beating just to teach you discipline."

Reimu crossed her arms tightly, glaring at Alice. "I'll pass, thanks."

Eiki, unperturbed by their bickering, continued. "The first Hakurei Shrine Maiden was a fascinating figure. I only met her a handful of times—enough to count on one hand, in fact. She always wore a fox mask, which she never removed, even during our discussions. She insisted that I simply call her 'Hakurei.' Despite her enigmatic nature, her reputation was enough to scatter even the boldest yokai at her mere presence. She and Rain were well-known as rivals and partners, competing in their extermination efforts."

Marisa leaned forward, her grin widening. "Wait, so they were rivals and a team? Now that's a nightmare combo. No wonder the yokai were scared stiff."

Eiki nodded. "Indeed. Their teamwork was devastating, and their methods... effective, if occasionally unconventional. The first Hakurei was known not only for her mastery of charms and shrine maiden arts but also for physically pummeling yokai and troublemakers into submission. She was a force to be reckoned with."

Reimu's face twisted into a mix of disbelief and irritation. "Beating up yokai with her fists? That sounds barbaric."

Marisa snickered. "Runs in the family, huh, Reimu? You've got a mean right hook yourself."

Reimu glared at her but didn't bother to argue, knowing Marisa wasn't entirely wrong.

Eiki smiled faintly, clearly amused by their reactions, before turning her attention back to Rain. "Unfortunately, I cannot assist you in recovering your lost memories, even with the aid of my Cleansed Crystal Mirror. It is a tool reserved strictly for judgment and not for personal requests."

Rain sighed, the weight of disappointment evident in her expression. "Figures," she muttered. "Every time I think I'm getting close to answers, something blocks the way."

Before anyone could speak further, Rain's expression shifted as if struck by something. Her eyes unfocused for a moment, and a faint flicker of recognition crossed her face. Images swirled in her mind—a woman with black hair, dressed in shrine maiden attire, wearing a fox mask. A voice echoed faintly, calm yet commanding: "Remember the plan..."

Rain blinked rapidly, clutching her head as if trying to hold onto the memory. "What… plan?" she murmured aloud, her voice tinged with frustration. No matter how hard she tried to grasp at the fleeting image, it slipped through her fingers, leaving her with nothing but an aching void.

The room fell silent as the others watched her carefully. Marisa tilted her head, curiosity flickering in her eyes. "You okay there, Rain?"

Rain shook her head slowly. "I remembered something... or maybe just a fragment. A voice, and... a fox mask. But that's it. Nothing else."

Alice frowned slightly, concern evident in her voice. "A fox mask… that sounds like the first Hakurei. Could it be connected to her somehow?"

Eiki folded her arms, her expression thoughtful. "It is possible. The first Hakurei was known for her plans and strategies. If she left instructions or a plan behind, it may hold the key to understanding your past."

Reimu groaned, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Great. Another mystery to deal with. As if we didn't have enough already."

Marisa grinned, clearly enjoying the unfolding drama. "Looks like the past keeps sneakin' up on you, Rain. Guess we're all in for a wild ride."

Reimu hesitated for a moment, her gaze fixed on Rain. Then, as though recalling something important, she asked, "Hey, Rain… do you remember why you have a tattoo of an eastern dragon on your right chest?"

Rain blinked, startled by the sudden question. "I do know I have it, but I don't remember why I have it in the first place."

Marisa leaned in with a mischievous grin. "Oh, really? Then show us! I wanna see this dragon tattoo."

Rain's face immediately darkened with embarrassment as she raised her hand and chopped the top of Marisa's head. "You don't just say that, especially since it's on my chest! Have some tact!"

"Ow! Fine, fine!" Marisa rubbed her head, still grinning.

Alice, who had been quietly listening, raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "Wait… Reimu, you've seen it? How did that happen? Does that mean you've seen it… up close?" Her tone carried a subtle undertone of jealousy, though she tried to mask it.

Reimu sighed and crossed her arms. "A lot of times, actually. Mostly when I was treating her injuries. What did you expect?"

Alice frowned slightly, not hiding her annoyance. "I see," she muttered, glancing away.

Marisa couldn't resist chiming in. "Well, well, looks like Reimu's gotten closer to Rain than we thought. Didn't know you were into tattoos too, Reimu."

"Shut up, Marisa," Reimu snapped, her face slightly pink.

Before the banter could spiral further, Eiki raised her hand, her expression calm but commanding. "Enough of this foolishness. Rain," she said gently, "would you mind showing me the tattoo? It may help us understand its significance."

Rain hesitated but sighed in resignation. "Uh, sure…" She gave Marisa a sharp look and added, "I'm only doing this for answers, not to entertain anyone."

She unbuttoned the top part of her dress, pulling it slightly to the side to reveal the tattoo. The design was intricate, covering her upper right chest just near her cleavage. The tattoo depicted a coiled eastern dragon, its serpentine body adorned with vivid scales that seemed to shimmer faintly, even in the shrine's dim light. Its fierce, sharp eyes gazed outward as though alive, and the claws looked poised to strike. Surrounding the dragon were faint, cloud-like patterns that gave the impression of the dragon emerging from mist or storm.

Eiki's eyes widened slightly, a rare show of emotion for the Yama. "As expected…" she murmured. "I believe you bear the symbol of the Dragon God."

Rain tilted her head, confused. "The Dragon God? Who's that?"

The room fell silent. Reimu, Alice, and Marisa all exchanged stunned glances before staring at Rain as though she'd just grown another head.

"You don't know who the Dragon God is?" Reimu finally asked, incredulous. Then she quickly corrected herself. "Right… amnesia."

Alice's voice was tinged with disbelief. "The Dragon God is Gensokyo's highest deity. All life here—human and youkai—worships it. Its power transcends even the Great Hakurei Barrier, and its presence is said to shape the very land we live in."

Marisa nodded vigorously. "Yeah, like, it's the big guy. The dragon's voice makes storms, its body causes earthquakes. It's destructive but also creates life, rivers, rain… everything. Basically, the god of gods around here."

Rain looked perplexed but said nothing as Eiki continued. "To bear a tattoo of this nature means that you were acknowledged by the Dragon God itself. This is no ordinary mark; it signifies a bond, perhaps even a way to tap into its power or summon its presence. Such recognition is… extraordinary."

"Extraordinary?" Reimu repeated, her voice filled with disbelief. "The Dragon God doesn't favor individuals. I've never heard of anyone being given a mark like that."

Marisa leaned over to Reimu, grinning slyly. "Heh, how come you don't have one, Reimu? You're supposed to be the shrine maiden, right? Maybe Rain here outdid you even back in the day."

Reimu groaned, rubbing her temples. "Marisa, shut up."

Marisa turned her attention back to Rain, grabbing her shoulders and shaking her lightly. "This explains everything! You've used up all your luck back in your prime, and now all the trouble finds you instead! Let's call the Dragon God! It'll help you sort this mess out!"

Rain flailed as she was shaken, her voice rising in protest. "Stop shaking me! My brain's already overloaded with information, and you're not helping!"

Marisa finally let go, looking sheepish, while Rain continued, "Besides, even if I could call the Dragon God, wouldn't that just… make it mad? I doubt it appreciates being disturbed for something as trivial as my lost memories."

Eiki nodded solemnly. "Rain is correct. The Dragon God is a being far beyond mortal comprehension. To summon it carelessly would be disrespectful and potentially disastrous."

Marisa crossed her arms, pouting. "Fine, fine. But, seriously, Rain, you've got some crazy stuff going on. I can't wait to see what else we find out about you."

Rain sighed, "I wish I knew myself," she muttered, glancing at the others. "But, for now, I guess I'll just have to keep digging."

Rain leaned back, letting out a deep sigh of exasperation. "This is getting ridiculous. My past life sounds like some over-the-top fantasy novel. I've worked in Hell, I've worked on the surface, and apparently, I trained in both martial arts and magic. What was I even trying to do? Be some kind of ultimate jack-of-all-trades?"

Marisa snickered. "Well, you are pretty good at just about everything, Rain. Maybe that was the goal. Ultimate perfection, daze!"

Rain rolled her eyes, crossing her arms. "What's next? An evil lair and a horde of minions?"

Alice smirked, adjusting her hat. "If you did have one, it would probably be more organized than Marisa's house. At least your lair wouldn't have mushrooms growing in random corners."

"Oi!" Marisa shot Alice a glare, though her tone remained playful. "I don't see you complaining when you raid my stash of magical materials."

"That's because I actually clean them before use," Alice retorted, her voice cool.

Reimu sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Focus, you two. We're trying to piece together Rain's past here, not argue about who keeps their house cleaner."

Rain couldn't help but chuckle at their banter, but her expression quickly turned thoughtful. "Still… what kind of life was I living? The more I learn, the less it feels like it was my own. I mean, working alongside the Dragon God, mastering martial arts, being talked about in Hell? It sounds like someone else entirely."

Marisa's smile faltered for a split second as she recalled fragments of what she had seen in Rain's memories, sealed within the crystal. She remembered seeing Rain's younger self, tirelessly training in martial arts and honing her magical skills. Another fragment showed her laughing alongside a familiar figure—Princess Kaguya. The connection between them had been undeniable, though the exact nature of their friendship was still a mystery. And then there was the memory of Rain clad in military armor, leading Japanese forces with unshakable determination.

Marisa glanced at Rain, her expression briefly conflicted. Yukari had warned her not to reveal too much, especially since overloading Rain with memories could cause more harm than good. Still, it was hard not to feel the weight of what she knew as she watched Rain struggle to make sense of her life.

"You probably just had a thing for multitasking," Marisa quipped, breaking the silence. "You know, taking on whatever job looked cool at the time."

Rain raised an eyebrow at her. "Sure, let's go with that," she said dryly.

Alice frowned slightly, tilting her head in thought. "It's strange, though. You don't remember why you did all of it, but it's clear that you were incredibly driven. Maybe you had a bigger goal you were trying to achieve."

"Or maybe I just didn't know when to stop," Rain muttered, resting her chin in her hand. "Either way, I guess I'll figure it out eventually. Probably in the most inconvenient way possible, knowing my luck."

Eiki, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke up. "Whether you remember or not, Rain, your actions in the past have left an undeniable impact. Few can say they've lived a life—or lives—as remarkable as yours. The important thing now is to determine what path you wish to take moving forward."

Rain nodded slowly. "Yeah, you're right. Still, it's hard to focus on the future when the past keeps knocking on my door."

Marisa grinned, trying to lighten the mood. "Hey, if you do find out you had an evil lair, you gotta let me check it out. Maybe you left some cool artifacts lying around!"

Rain chuckled, shaking her head. "If I had a lair, I probably left it booby-trapped. So good luck with that."

Reimu groaned. "Please don't encourage her, Rain. The last thing we need is Marisa breaking into some ancient ruin and setting off a bunch of magical traps."

Marisa puffed out her chest, her tone mockingly confident. "Come on, Reimu. Traps are just puzzles with extra steps!"

Alice sighed, muttering under her breath. "More like excuses for you to blow things up."

Rain watched the exchange with a small smile. Despite the whirlwind of confusion surrounding her past, moments like these reminded her of the simple joys of her present. Even if her memories were a mess, at least she had friends to keep her grounded—chaotic as they might be.

Eiki slowly rose from her seat, her composed demeanor returning. "It seems my free time has come to an end. I must return to my duties," she said, her tone gentle yet firm. She glanced at Rain with a faint smile. "I wish you good luck on your journey of self-discovery, Rain. While I cannot help you directly, there may be others who can. Do not lose hope."

Rain nodded, her expression grateful. "Thank you. I'll keep trying."

The Yama gave a slight bow to the group, her emerald eyes lingering on Rain for a moment longer before she turned and walked toward the shrine's exit.

As Eiki stepped out into the cool air, her thoughts wandered to the past. In her mind's eye, she saw flashes of a different Gensokyo—one marked by the presence of two extraordinary figures. Rain, with her unparalleled skills and quiet intensity, and the enigmatic First Hakurei, always shrouded in mystery, both figuratively and literally with her fox mask. Together, they had been an unstoppable force, their very presence stirring ripples through both the mortal world and the realms of Hell.

Eiki couldn't help but wonder. Rain is alive... Could the First still be as well? She recalled the fleeting encounters she'd had with them, few and far between due to her own busy schedule. The First had always insisted on keeping her mask on, never revealing her face, and always deflecting when asked about it. And Rain… Rain had secrets too, layers upon layers of them. Even back then, Eiki had sensed the weight of those hidden truths. Yet, she had never pressed her. There had been no need. Rain and the First were both trustworthy and formidable, but even they had mysteries too deep to unravel.

Eiki sighed softly. Perhaps it was better that way. Some secrets were meant to remain buried until the time was right.

Her lips curved into a faint smile, tinged with nostalgia. "Time will tell," she murmured to herself as she walked.

Suddenly, her expression shifted into a frown as another thought crossed her mind. "Speaking of time… I should check on Komachi." Her tone grew sharper as she imagined her subordinate lounging by a riverbank or napping instead of ferrying souls as she was supposed to. "She better not be slacking off again," Eiki muttered, her eyes narrowing.

She adjusted her hat and strode forward with renewed purpose. A surprise inspection was in order.

Rain clapped her hands together, breaking the lingering silence after Eiki's departure. "Alright, let's get going. Moriya Shrine is next on the list," she said, stretching slightly. "That shrine maiden with… uh, bigger brea—" she caught herself mid-sentence, clearing her throat awkwardly, "—than Reimu is expecting me. I promised her I'd stop by for the tour."

Reimu's eyebrow twitched. "Bigger what?"

Rain winced at the tone, avoiding direct eye contact. "Nothing. It's just… my first impression of her. She left a mark, okay?"

Marisa tilted her head, intrigued. "What, you forgot her name? It's Sanae."

"Oh, right!" Rain snapped her fingers. "Sanae. Yeah, sorry, it just slipped my mind." She rubbed the back of her neck, attempting to downplay her previous comment. "It's just that when we first met, she was talking a lot and moving a lot. It was... distracting."

Reimu crossed her arms, her frown deepening. "Distracting? You mean because of her—"

Rain cut in hurriedly. "Yes, okay? Because of those. I couldn't exactly look away; it'd be rude when someone's talking directly to you. So my eyes followed, and it gave me a headache. You have no idea how annoying it was."

Reimu scoffed, offended. "Is that the real reason you agreed to her tour without thinking?"

Rain turned her head slightly, trying to appear nonchalant. "No," she said curtly. "I said yes because it's rude to turn people down."

Reimu narrowed her eyes. "Hmm."

Meanwhile, Alice was unusually quiet, her arms crossed as she stared off to the side. She absently glanced down at her chest before quickly shaking her head. 'Does that mean… that's Rain's type?' The thought made her feel a pang of insecurity.

Marisa, on the other hand, couldn't hold in her laughter. "Rain, you're too honest, daze! You're making this way more awkward than it needs to be." She grinned mischievously. "I think I could pull off something like that too—"

She abruptly stopped, realizing what she had just blurted out. Her face turned crimson as she looked away, muttering under her breath, 'What am I saying? I'm not even that big… and why would I do that for Rain, of all people?' Her flustered reaction only fueled her embarrassment.

Rain sighed, shaking her head. "Listen, I've got my own pair to look at, alright? I don't need to be bothered by anyone else's. Sanae's just stood out because they were distracting in the worst possible way."

Reimu, still irked, waved them off. "Whatever. You can deal with that shrine maiden on your own. I'm staying behind—someone has to look after this shrine."

Rain smirked. "Sure thing, Reimu. Don't miss us too much while you're stuck here with your precious duties."

Reimu huffed, clearly done with the conversation. Alice, still deep in thought, glanced at Rain but didn't say anything. Marisa kept chuckling, but her reddened cheeks betrayed her amusement.

"Alright," Rain said, gesturing for the others to follow. "Let's get moving before Reimu throws something at us."

Marisa laughed again, and the group began their trek toward the Moriya Shrine, with Reimu muttering something about "disrespectful troublemakers" as they left.

Outside the shrine, Rain stood with her arms stretched out to her sides, a determined yet slightly nervous expression on her face. Her silver-white hair swayed lightly in the breeze as she focused. "Alright… first time flying. Can't be that hard, right?" she muttered to herself.

Marisa smirked, arms crossed as she watched from a safe distance. "Take it slow, Rain. Don't go crashing into the trees, daze."

Alice added in her usual calm tone, "Just focus on balance. You don't need to go high right away."

Rain nodded, took a deep breath, and concentrated. Slowly, her body began to lift off the ground, hovering just a few feet above it. She flailed her arms slightly at first, wobbly like a baby bird testing its wings, but within moments she stabilized.

"Hey, look! I'm doing it!" Rain called out triumphantly, grinning. She tilted her body slightly to one side, then the other, testing her ability to maneuver.

"Not bad for a first-timer," Marisa called out with a grin.

Rain, emboldened by her progress, decided to pick up speed. She zipped forward, only to realize too late that her path was directly toward the torii gate.

BONK!

The impact sent a loud clang echoing through the area as Rain collided face-first into the gate. She slid down dramatically, landing on the ground in a heap. "Ow! My poor nose!" she groaned, rubbing her face.

Alice sighed, shaking her head. "I told you to take it slow."

Marisa burst out laughing, clutching her sides. "You flew, alright, but straight into the gate! That's gotta be a record, daze!"

The sound of the crash caused Reimu to fling open the shrine door, looking out with a mix of irritation and confusion. "What's going on now? Did someone—" She paused as she saw Rain sprawled on the ground. "Really, Rain? You're already causing trouble and you haven't even left yet?"

Rain huffed, brushing off dirt as she stood. "It was just a little miscalculation. I'll get it this time!"

She tried again, this time lifting off the ground with more confidence. She steadied herself and started ascending, but soon realized she wasn't stopping. Higher and higher she went, her movements unsteady.

"Uh… guys? Guys!" Rain called out, waving her arms as she floated upward like a balloon. "Help! I think I'm gonna end up in space!"

Alice and Marisa both burst into laughter again before Marisa finally grabbed her broom. "Alright, alright! Hang on, daze!" She flew up and grabbed Rain's foot, pulling her back down to safety.

Once grounded, Rain sighed in relief. "Okay, flying is harder than it looks. Third time's the charm though, right?"

Alice nodded, offering some advice. "Focus on controlling your energy flow. Keep your speed and height balanced. Don't let the momentum take over."

Marisa added with a grin, "And don't forget to steer this time, or you'll be kissing another gate!"

Rain rolled her eyes but took their advice to heart. She steadied herself, took a deep breath, and took off again. This time, her movements were fluid and controlled. She zipped upward, then slowed to a stop, hovering perfectly in mid-air.

"I think I got it!" Rain exclaimed, grinning as she looked down at the others. Encouraged, she soared higher, stopping to take in the scenery. The afternoon sun bathed Gensokyo in warm, golden hues, and the patchwork of forests, mountains, and rivers stretched out endlessly before her.

She hovered in place, her red and green heterochromatic eyes shining as she admired the view. "It's… beautiful," she said softly, her voice filled with awe.

Below, Alice watched her with a small smile, while Marisa gave an approving thumbs-up. Reimu, still standing by the shrine, sighed but couldn't help the faint smile tugging at her lips. Rain might be a trouble magnet, but at least she was getting the hang of things.

Rain floated in the air, wobbling a little before stabilizing herself. With a grin, she gestured enthusiastically to Alice and Marisa. "Come on, slowpokes! Let's get moving before Reimu finds another excuse to yell at me for wrecking something!"

Alice and Marisa exchanged amused glances before taking off to join her.

As Rain hovered confidently, she scratched her head, her expression shifting into mild confusion. "Uh… so... how do we actually get to the Moriya Shrine again? So much has been happening I kinda… forgot."

Alice raised an eyebrow, her voice a mixture of curiosity and disbelief. "You forgot? Again?"

Marisa grinned knowingly. "Figures. With how much chaos you attract, I'm surprised you remember your name half the time."

Rain sighed dramatically, ignoring the jab. "Look, it's been a hectic day, alright? I know it's somewhere on that big mountain, but specifics? Nope. Gone."

Alice adjusted her hat, speaking thoughtfully. "The Moriya Ropeway should be the easiest and safest way up. It's built for humans, so it avoids most of the dangerous youkai territory."

Marisa scratched her head, considering. "Yeah, but flying there saves time. And the view's better. Ropeway's kinda boring, daze."

Rain quickly raised her hand like a student volunteering in class. "Ropeway. Definitely the ropeway. I've had enough trouble for one day, thank you." She muttered under her breath, "My nose is still sore from that gate…"

Alice nodded. "Alright, the ropeway it is. It's just outside the Human Village, so we'll pass by there on the way."

Marisa shrugged, spinning her broom in her hand. "Fine, but we're flying to get there. No way I'm walking the whole way."

Rain smirked. "Flying's fine. Just no races, okay? I'm still new at this."

The trio ascended and began their journey, with Rain taking in the scenery as they flew.

As they left the shrine grounds, the Forest of Magic stretched below them like an endless sea of dark green. Shafts of sunlight pierced through the dense canopy, illuminating patches of wildflowers and mushrooms. Occasionally, the sound of rustling leaves or distant chirping broke the serene quiet.

Rain glanced down curiously. "You live here, right, Marisa? How do you even find your house in all this?"

Marisa grinned proudly, waving her hand dismissively. "Easy, daze. Just follow the paths that aren't full of giant mushrooms trying to eat you. And if you get lost, my house kinda glows at night."

Alice rolled her eyes but said nothing, her gaze focused on the horizon.

As they continued, the forest gave way to the Human Village, its familiar tiled rooftops and narrow streets bustling with activity. Vendors called out to passersby. From the air, the village looked peaceful, a sharp contrast to the chaos Rain often found herself in.

"Looks lively," Rain remarked, tilting her head. "I guess it's lunchtime."

Alice nodded. "It's always busiest around this time. Farmers bringing goods to market, families shopping for supplies."

"Smells good, too," Marisa added, sniffing the air. "Too bad we don't have time to grab a bite, daze."

Rain chuckled. "Focus, Marisa. We've got a mountain to climb."

Past the village, the forest thickened again briefly before thinning out into a clearer path. In the distance, the Moriya Ropeway came into view—a sturdy aerial tramway stretching up the mountain. The base station sat nestled near the mountain's edge, surrounded by small shops and signs welcoming visitors to the Moriya Shrine.

Rain's eyes lit up. "There it is! That's our ticket to a less eventful trip."

Marisa smirked. "Less eventful? You sure about that? You are coming with us, after all."

Rain shot her a playful glare as they began their descent, the ropeway station growing larger with each passing second.

As they descended toward the ropeway station, Rain's sharp eyes scanned the area. The usually bustling station seemed oddly quiet, with only a handful of people in sight. Most of the shops stood unattended, their owners presumably inside, and the chatter of a crowd was replaced by the faint rustling of leaves and distant bird calls.

Rain tilted her head. "Huh… there aren't many people around. I thought this place would be busier, especially for a shrine that's supposed to attract visitors."

Alice landed gracefully beside her, folding her arms. "It's not that strange. It's lunchtime. Most people are probably gathering to eat at the village or in their homes."

Marisa plopped down on her broom, balancing it like a bench. "Makes sense, daze. Even shrine tourists gotta take a break sometime. Bet the food stalls here are prepping for the afternoon rush."

Rain nodded slowly, glancing around once more. "I guess that explains it. Still feels… weird, though. Like we're stepping into one of those moments before something goes wrong."

Alice raised an eyebrow. "You've been spending too much time with Marisa. Not everything's a setup for trouble."

"Oi!" Marisa protested, hopping off her broom. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Rain laughed lightly, raising her hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright. Let's not jinx it. I've had enough mishaps for one day."

With that, the three of them made their way toward the ropeway station, Rain's curiosity tempered by the growing anticipation of what awaited them on the mountain.

As the small cabin of the Moriya Ropeway creaked to life, lifting them up into the air, Rain couldn't help but glance nervously at the wooden walls surrounding them. The absence of any glass or solid barriers on the sides made her feel a little exposed as the wind rushed past.

"Is it safe?" she asked aloud, looking at Alice and Marisa. "I mean, it's just wood, no glass or anything. And you know how my luck tends to be... even the safest place can turn into chaos with me around."

Marisa chuckled, leaning against the side of the cabin. "You think too much. It's perfectly fine, daze. They wouldn't let tourists take this thing if it wasn't safe. Plus, it's the ropeway, not some rickety old lift."

Alice nodded, adjusting her hat as she looked at the smooth ascent. "The Moriya Shrine is known for being well-maintained, and Kanako wouldn't let something so important fall into disrepair. It's safer than walking up the mountain yourself, that's for sure."

Rain, still feeling a bit uneasy, leaned back, her fingers gripping the edge of the wooden railing. She glanced down at the ground, now far below them, and then back to the horizon ahead. "Well, I'll take your word for it… but if this thing starts swinging too much or comes loose, I'm blaming both of you."

Marisa grinned, playfully tapping her broom. "No worries, ze. If it does fall, we figure it out."

Rain gave her a flat look. "Not helping, Marisa."

With a sigh, she tried to relax, looking up at the sky, which was clear and open, just beginning to show the bright hues of afternoon. Still, her unease lingered as they ascended higher, the wind carrying the faint sound of distant birds and the rustling of leaves from the forest far below.

After a few moments of quiet ascent, Rain looked around, her eyes scanning the vast scenery below. The landscape was beautiful, but the slow pace of the ropeway made her grow a bit restless. She shifted in place and let out a soft sigh.

"This is so slow…" she muttered, her gaze still drifting over the view. "I could've flown up here faster, but... well, I'll admit, this is probably the safer route." She grinned wryly, turning to Alice and Marisa. "Still, it feels like we're just crawling up this mountain."

Alice glanced out the window at the slow-moving landscape. "It's just the altitude. The ropeway has to ascend carefully, after all. If it were any faster, it might become too dangerous."

Rain leaned against the cabin's wooden walls, resting her chin in her hand. "I suppose... but this slow pace is giving me way too much time to think. And I can already feel my mind wandering. I'm not sure that's a good thing with my track record." She looked back down at the ground, noting how far below it was now. "At least the view is nice, I'll give it that."

Marisa let out a loud laugh. "I told you, it's a good ride! Just relax and enjoy the ride, ze. You're not in a rush, are you?"

Rain gave her a sidelong glance. "When you've got my luck, Marisa, you tend to rush away from the chaos rather than enjoying the calm."

The view ahead of them began to open up more as they rose higher, the quiet expanse of trees and distant mountains stretching out. Despite her complaints, Rain couldn't help but admire how beautiful the land looked from above. The world felt peaceful, far removed from her usual troubles. Even if it was slower than she'd like, it was still a view worth appreciating.

As Rain leaned slightly out of the cabin, admiring the breathtaking scenery, her view was abruptly shattered by a bright flash of light. She instinctively raised a hand to shield her eyes.

"What the—?!" she exclaimed, blinking rapidly to clear her vision.

"Sorry about that! Couldn't resist such a scenic shot!" came a cheerful voice from above. A familiar tengu descended gracefully, her camera dangling from her neck as she waved at them with her free hand. Aya Shameimaru had arrived.

"Aya?" Marisa said with a mix of amusement and exasperation. "What're you doin' here?"

Aya landed lightly on the edge of the cabin's roof, crouching in her usual energetic manner. "Sanae mentioned Rain would be visiting, but I didn't think I'd catch you mid-ride! You really should let people know when you're traveling, Rain. Makes my job harder!" Without waiting for a response, she handed a Bunbunmaru Newspaper to each of them.

Rain took hers cautiously, squinting suspiciously at the tengu. "You followed us?"

"Followed? No, no! I just have an uncanny knack for being in the right place at the right time." Aya winked.

Rain muttered something inaudible before glancing at the headline. Her frown deepened instantly. The first story detailed damage to the Genbu Ravine caused by a massive fight, and the second…

Her eyes narrowed at the photo of a figure with a massive scythe. Certain Death. It was her in that form. The headline speculated about the "mysterious scythe wielder."

Aya didn't seem to notice Rain's sudden tension as she cheerfully launched into her spiel. "A lot's been happening lately! Your big return is all the buzz, Rain, and now there's this absurd gal with a gigantic scythe roaming around! Heard she even fought with Tenshi Hinanawi. You know, that celestial brat." Aya leaned closer, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "You guys heard of her? Or at least seen her? She's making waves, and I need an interview! Imagine the headlines: 'Hero or Harbinger? The Tale of the Scythe Girl!'"

Marisa chuckled nervously, scratching the back of her head. "Yeah, sounds wild, huh?"

Alice, ever composed, glanced at Rain, noting her stiff posture. She quickly stepped in. "I'm sure rumors like that are exaggerated. Tenshi probably just picked a fight with someone who had a flashy weapon."

Aya grinned knowingly. "Oh, I bet it's more than that. This scythe girl kicked Tenshi's butt! I have to track her down. You don't suppose she's hiding on this mountain, do you?"

Rain coughed, regaining her composure and folding the paper. "Doubt it. Sounds like she'd be too busy fighting celestials to hang around shrines and mountains." She avoided eye contact, her tone casual but firm.

Aya studied her for a moment, then shrugged. "Fair enough. But if you see her—or hear anything—let me know! I'll make it worth your while. I do have that feeling that I've seen her before... but anyway! Am off for that scoop!"

With that, Aya zipped away, leaving behind a flurry of wind and scattered leaves.

Rain let out a long, quiet sigh of relief as the tengu disappeared into the distance. She glanced at Marisa and Alice, who were both watching her expectantly.

"Well," she said dryly, tucking the newspaper away, "that was… something. Let's just hope she doesn't piece anything together anytime soon."

Marisa smirked. "Yeah, wouldn't wanna end up in her 'Hero or Harbinger' special edition, ze."

Rain rolled her eyes. "Exactly." Then, looking at the scenery once more, she muttered to herself, "This mountain's already turning into a headache…"

Rain's gaze lingered on the fading silhouette of Aya in the distance. Her mind ticked as an idea began to form—a mischievous glint sparkled in her heterochromatic eyes. "You know," she said after a moment, tapping her chin thoughtfully, "Aya wants an interview so badly… maybe I should give her one. Just… not as me."

Alice immediately frowned, catching the undertone in Rain's voice. "What are you thinking? I already don't like this."

Marisa, on the other hand, leaned back with a smirk. "Here we go. Another one of your stunts, huh? Typical Rain."

Rain waved a hand dismissively. "Oh, relax. It's just going to be a little prank."

Alice crossed her arms. "And what exactly does that entail?"

"Well," Rain began, her playful tone barely hiding her growing enthusiasm, "Aya's always running her mouth about tengu business, right? So, why not play her game and have a little fun? Besides, someone needs to peg her down a bit. She's too cocky for her own good."

Marisa shrugged. "Eh, sounds like a headache. Reimu's gonna kick up a fuss if she finds out you're stirring the pot again."

Rain grinned. "That's why Reimu's not going to find out." She leaned forward as the ropeway creaked, signaling they were approaching the tengu settlement below. "We're close. I need to get off here and pay Aya a visit."

Alice's eyes widened. "What? No. Absolutely not. We don't have time for this!"

Rain turned to them with a knowing smile. "I'll be quick. You two head to the Moriya Shrine and wait for me. Trust me, it's better if you're not caught up in this."

Marisa gave her a skeptical look. "You sure? You're a magnet for trouble, and we're just supposed to hang back and chill while you mess with Aya?"

"Exactly," Rain said with a wink. "Oh, by the way, what features do tengu have?"

Alice sighed. "If you're doing what I think you're doing, tengu are humanoid. The crow tengu, like Aya, have wings. They wear yamabushi-style clothing, carry those leaf fans, and sometimes have other accessories, like a staff or hat. Why?"

Rain's eyes lit up as she turned away, her focus sharpening. "Perfect. I'll see you later."

Before either could stop her, Rain began chanting softly. Her body shimmered with a faint glow as her magic took effect, morphing her appearance. Her silver-white hair darkened to a glossy black, her butterfly-styled headband vanished, and a pair of sleek, feathered wings sprouted from her back. Her green and black samurai-themed outfit shifted into a more traditional yamabushi-style ensemble. Her face softened into an innocent and youthful expression, completing her transformation into an adorable crow tengu girl.

Alice and Marisa stared in stunned silence as the glow faded.

"That's… you weren't kidding when you said you could do this," Alice finally said, her voice tinged with a mix of amazement and concern.

"Yeah, but seeing it up close?" Marisa whistled. "Gotta say, that's impressive. Creepy, but impressive. So, what's your name now?"

Rain tilted her head, her new form's voice high-pitched and sweet. "Hmm. I need a tengu name. Any ideas?"

Marisa, ever the lazy thinker, shrugged. "Uh… Maya. Just stick an M on it."

Rain raised an eyebrow at her, smirking. "Really? You just added an M? Fine. Maya it is. Maya Gongenmaru sounds good enough."

Alice pinched the bridge of her nose. "I have a bad feeling about this."

Rain grinned, spreading her new wings as she prepared to take off. "If Sanae asks, tell her I'll be a little late. See you both soon!"

With that, she leapt into the air, her black wings carrying her swiftly toward the tengu settlement.

As Rain disappeared into the sky, her new crow tengu form blending into the horizon, Marisa leaned back in her seat, arms behind her head, and let out a whistle. "Man, that disguise magic of hers… it's something else, huh? She really nailed the tengu look."

Alice nodded, though her expression remained tense. "It's certainly impressive. But you and I both know Rain—she's not going to stop at just looking like one. This little prank of hers is bound to spiral into something bigger."

Marisa shrugged, though a faint grin played on her lips. "Well, yeah. It's Rain we're talking about. Trouble follows her like a lost puppy. But still…" She tapped her chin thoughtfully. "That magic of hers—just changing her appearance without actually becoming someone else? I've seen a few illusion spells here and there, but this? It's on another level. The wings even looked like they'd work."

Alice folded her arms, still watching the sky where Rain had flown off. "They're not real, though. She's still using her own magic to fly, not tengu abilities. But if she can fool us, she can probably fool Aya too."

"That's the fun part," Marisa said with a chuckle. "I just hope we're not cleaning up her mess when Reimu catches wind of this."

Alice sighed, shaking her head. "We might not have a choice. Rain's clever, but she's reckless. Let's just hope she doesn't draw too much attention before she gets bored and comes back."

The ropeway jolted slightly as it continued its climb, the two of them settling into an uneasy silence. Both knew Rain well enough to suspect her "little prank" was going to be anything but small.

As Rain flew through the crisp mountain air, she couldn't help but be captivated by the lush landscape beneath her. The mountain was a sprawling mix of dense forest, rocky cliffs, and serene meadows, all dotted with small shrines and scattered wooden buildings. The settlement was nestled among the trees, with roofs of dark wood rising above the greenery, their edges curved and inviting, typical of tengu architecture. She could make out several figures in the settlement below, each wearing the distinct attire of tengu: long robes, feathered accessories, and the iconic tengu tokin hats. The area seemed peaceful, despite the vibrant activity, and the occasional flap of wings could be heard as tengu zipped from place to place.

The crow tengu, being part of the information corps, were the busiest. Rain spotted a few bustling around, carrying papers and hurriedly scribbling notes, their wings folded neatly against their backs as they focused on their work. The Great Tengu were more stationary, overseeing their subordinates, while others milled about, some engaging in conversations, others simply enjoying their breaks. Farther off, a group of tengu were playing a game of shogi, and the sounds of their animated discussions about strategy could be heard even from the air.

As she approached the settlement, Rain's eyes locked on a new face—a figure walking with purpose but taking a break from her patrol. It was Momiji, one of the tengu who patrolled the area.

Momiji's attire was instantly recognizable, her white shirt and black skirt adorned with red flame-like designs, her scimitar-like sword hanging by her side, and the round shield with a maple leaf print slung across her back. Her short silver hair framed her face as she paused, likely to rest, and her keen eyes seemed to immediately take notice of Rain.

Rain, or rather Maya Gongenmaru at the moment, floated down to land gracefully in front of Momiji, who gave her a curious glance. As she did, Momiji took a deep sniff of the air, her sharp nose twitching as she tilted her head. "Hm… You smell like a human," she remarked, her voice tinged with curiosity.

Rain, maintaining her calm, raised an eyebrow at Momiji's bluntness. "Rude," she replied, her tone light yet firm. "Sniffing someone without permission?"

Momiji blinked, her cheeks reddening in embarrassment. "Ah! I'm sorry! I… I have a keen sense of smell, and it's just that… well, you don't smell like a typical tengu." She scratched her head sheepishly.

Rain, still in her tengu guise, waved off the matter. "It's fine. I encountered humans while traveling on the ropeway, hence the smell," she explained smoothly.

Momiji nodded, her face relaxing. "Ah, I see now. That makes sense. You're new, aren't you?" She tilted her head, squinting at Rain with her sharp eyes. "I don't recognize your face."

Rain smiled, her wings fluttering slightly as she adjusted her stance. "Yes, I am. That's why I'm looking for Aya. I need some tips about the area." She gave a polite bow, a perfect mimicry of tengu courtesy.

"Tips, huh?" Momiji scratched her chin thoughtfully. "Well, Aya would be the one to ask about this place. She's usually somewhere around here, running her business or stirring up trouble. That bird brain..." She looked around briefly before focusing on Rain. "Are you sure you're not just here to see what she's up to? You seem like the curious type."

Rain, in her Maya Gongenmaru persona, played along. "I suppose I am curious, but I truly just need advice. Maybe from her experience, if she's willing to share." She gave a small, innocent shrug.

Momiji gave her a friendly nod. "That's fair. Aya's always been willing to help out those who ask nicely." Her eyes narrowed a bit, a glint of suspicion fading into understanding. "Just don't cause any trouble with her. She's got her quirks, and sometimes she gets a little… overzealous with her reporting."

"I'll keep that in mind," Rain said with a smile, her wings flaring out slightly. "Thank you. I'll keep my eyes open for her."

As the two parted ways, Rain watched Momiji return to her patrol, her sharp eyes scanning the area once more. The tengu patrols were diligent, always on the lookout for intruders. For now, though, Rain was content with blending in, her ruse working as she made her way toward Aya's usual hangouts. She was getting closer to her objective, and the game was just beginning.

As Rain made her way toward a clearing near the settlement, she was still taking in the sights, enjoying the peaceful moment. She had flown to the area with the intention of finding Aya, but now, her mind was at ease, content with the new surroundings. That peaceful moment was abruptly broken when a voice called out to her.

"Oi, you!" the voice rang, sharp and commanding.

Rain looked up, and standing there, her arms crossed, was a tengu who radiated an unmistakable authority. This tengu was dressed in a modern dark blue dress with white trim and a golden pauldron on her left shoulder, the gemstone glinting in the sunlight. Her dark violet geta clacked against the ground with each step, and her blue hair swayed gently in the breeze. Her red eyes locked onto Rain with an intensity that made her pause.

Rain immediately recognized the serious tone of this tengu's presence—there was something about her that felt superior, and she instinctively stood straighter. This was no ordinary tengu.

"You've been idling here for quite a while," the tengu said, her tone disapproving. "Crow Tengu are supposed to be active, always moving, writing, distributing. You're not here to take breaks. What are you doing just standing around?"

Rain blinked, taken aback by the sudden scolding but quickly composed herself. She could tell this tengu was not someone to be trifled with—she had the air of someone who held a higher rank. Rain, still in her Crow Tengu disguise, bowed slightly in a respectful manner, her voice calm but polite. "My apologies, I was merely taking a short respite before returning to my duties," she explained, keeping her tone soft yet firm. "I am on my way back to work."

The tengu eyed her for a moment, her red eyes narrowing as she assessed Rain's response. "A respite, huh?" She paused, her gaze unwavering. "You're supposed to be doing your job. Crow Tengu don't just stand around for no reason. If you're not busy with something important, you need to be writing and distributing."

Rain took a deep breath, staying composed in the face of this rebuke. "Of course, I understand," she responded smoothly. "I'll return to my duties immediately."

The tengu nodded, seemingly satisfied with her response but still with a firm air about her. "Good. Don't let me see you slacking off again. There's always something to be done." Her eyes softened just slightly, but the sternness remained. "Get back to writing, distributing, and keeping the mountain's flow of information going. That's your job."

"Understood, ma'am," Rain replied respectfully, her head slightly bowed as she prepared to move on.

The tengu gave her a curt nod, her expression showing no hint of relaxation, yet her eyes seemed to hold a quiet approval. She turned on her heel, her pauldron catching the light, and walked off without another word, her dark blue dress swishing behind her as she went.

Rain stood still for a moment, processing the interaction. She had been reprimanded, but her disguise had held up—she hadn't given anything away. Still, the tengu had felt superior in some way, and the way she'd been addressed left Rain feeling as though she'd been spoken to by someone with high authority. Perhaps this tengu was more than just a typical Tengu, but Rain had no way of knowing exactly why. She simply brushed it off for now, refocusing on her objective.

Rain continued her walk toward the settlement, keeping a steady pace but mindful to avoid further suspicion. She couldn't afford to draw more attention, and she knew she'd have to be more cautious in the future. It seemed that on Youkai Mountain, even a simple mistake could draw the eye of a superior.

As Rain continued walking toward the settlement, the encounter with the tengu still lingered in her mind. She couldn't help but reflect on the tension of the moment and how quickly she'd been put in her place. 'Being a tengu is hard, she thought with a sigh. There's always something to do, always someone watching, making sure you're staying on task.'

The tengu she had encountered, with her strict orders and absolute authority, had left a strong impression on Rain. It wasn't just about flying or patrolling the mountain; it was about managing the flow of information, keeping everything running smoothly, and ensuring no one slipped up. Every tengu, from the lowest to the highest rank, seemed to be expected to contribute in some way, constantly maintaining the balance of the mountain. And that Great Tengu, the one who had reprimanded her—she had a presence that was hard to ignore, and her words carried a weight that Rain could still feel pressing against her chest.

'I can't imagine having to deal with all of this on a daily basis,' she mused. The mountain had its rules, its hierarchy, its expectations. For a tengu, there was no room for relaxation or idle time. It was a demanding life, requiring constant vigilance, precision, and coordination. She couldn't imagine the pressure on the higher-ranked tengu, those like the one who had just scolded her. They must constantly be overseeing everything, ensuring that the lesser tengu, like herself, followed the rules without fail.

Rain felt a flicker of sympathy for the tengu who managed this vast network of workers and information. Still, despite the pressures, she could see some advantages in the tengu's roles—perhaps a sense of purpose and unity. 'But is it worth it? she wondered. The constant work, the ever-watchful eyes of your superiors?'

Shaking off the thoughts, she focused on her immediate goal: finding Aya. 'For now, I just need to keep my cover intact and not draw too much attention.'

As Rain walked into the settlement, she couldn't help but overhear a heated argument between two tengu not far from her. Her curiosity piqued, she drifted closer, staying within earshot to see what was going on.

One tengu, whom Rain recognized from earlier as Aya Shameimaru, was standing with hands on her hips, looking slightly exasperated. Her short, spiky hair and distinctive black and white outfit gave her away. The other tengu was a new face— a young woman with long brown pigtails, a tokin on her head, and a camera hanging from her waist. Her outfit was much more casual than Aya's, consisting of a purple-trimmed pink shirt, a skirt with black and purple checker patterns, and dark thigh-high socks. She was holding a small flip phone-like device, no doubt part of her strange, reporter-style job.

Rain watched as Aya threw her hands up in frustration. "Seriously, Hatate! Can you just try to get out of your room for once? You've been locked inside for days writing those articles of yours. Don't you know there's actual work to do on the mountain?" Her voice was filled with a mix of irritation and a hint of concern for her fellow tengu.

Hatate, for her part, rolled her eyes and scoffed. "Oh, come on, Aya. I'm getting the job done in my own way. Thoughtography doesn't need me to physically run around. I'm gathering information without all that ridiculous running about and wasting energy." She flicked a lock of hair behind her ear and adjusted the camera hanging from her waist.

Aya wasn't done, though. "But that's the point! You just sit there with your toys while I'm out here actually making a difference, getting stories firsthand! You should really get some fresh air sometime, maybe then your articles wouldn't be so outdated."

Hatate's face flushed in frustration, her voice biting. "You think you're so busy, huh? Well, not everyone cares about running themselves ragged all day like you do, Aya."

Rain, now intrigued by the sharp exchange, stepped into view. Both Aya and Hatate immediately stopped bickering and turned toward her.

Aya eyed her with a curious tilt of her head. "Hey, you there! You look new, haven't seen you around before. What brings you here?"

Hatate, slightly less confrontational but still with a hint of curiosity, also looked Rain over. "Yeah, you don't look familiar either. What's your name?"

Rain hesitated for a moment, not wanting to give anything away. "I'm... Maya Gongenmaru," she said smoothly, offering a polite bow. "I'm new around here, and I heard Aya is a good mentor. I was hoping to get some advice and tips from her."

The reaction was immediate. Hatate raised an eyebrow, clearly baffled. She was about to say something, but Aya interrupted her, beaming with pride. "Ayaya~! You came to me for advice? I'm so flattered! Of course, I'll help! I'll teach you everything I know!" Aya's enthusiasm was practically contagious.

Rain had to hide her grin as she watched Aya's reaction. 'Just as planned,' she thought, a wicked glint in her eye. Her smirk widened ever so slightly, and she let out a quiet chuckle. This was her chance to be alone with Aya, away from any distractions.

With a dramatic flourish, Aya grabbed Rain's arm and pulled her along. "Come on, Maya, let's go! I've got the perfect place for us to work on your skills!" she said, completely oblivious to the disappointed expression Hatate shot in their direction.

Hatate, exasperated, folded her arms and muttered under her breath, "Great... another one... That's all we need."

Rain, however, was in a much better mood. She gave Hatate one last glance, a subtle yet mischievous grin tugging at her lips. 'Oh, I'll teach you a lesson you'll never forget,' she thought. 'You won't know what hit you.'

Aya eagerly led Rain to her workplace, a large, open area filled with papers, scrolls, and various gadgets for writing and distributing news. As they entered, Aya's excitement was palpable. "Alright, Maya! Let me show you how it's done!"

Rain just smiled, her mind already at work, ready to turn the tables in her favor.

The cramped but lively space of Aya Shameimaru's workshop brimmed with the smell of fresh ink and a jumble of paper stacked precariously on every surface. Once the door clicked shut, Rain—disguised as the crow tengu Maya Gongenmaru—folded her arms and smiled with an air of youthful curiosity.

"So, Shameimaru-san," she began, her voice slightly higher and brighter than usual, "what kind of story are you working on right now? I heard you're one of the best journalists in all of Gensokyo. I want to learn from you if you don't mind sharing your expertise."

Aya perked up, her sharp eyes gleaming with delight. "Ayaya~ You're in for a treat!" She swiveled around, rummaging through a pile of photographs until she found the one she was looking for. With a dramatic flair, she held it up.

"Behold! A scoop that might be the biggest of the year! Though, I only managed to snag a single photo and had to bail early for many reasons."

Rain leaned closer, carefully schooling her expression. The image was a striking capture of her in her Certain Death form, scythe gleaming as she clashed with Tenshi amidst the stormy skies. The memory was vivid to Rain, though her face remained unreadable.

Aya grinned, clearly pleased with her handiwork. "This one's going to shake the tengu network to its core! You see, this figure—this Certain Death—isn't just some new powerhouse. Ayaya, I know I've seen her before…" Aya tapped her chin thoughtfully, then her eyes widened. "Wait a minute... That's it!"

Rain froze, her heart skipping a beat. Aya's eyes darted to the photo and back, a look of recognition dawning on her face.

"This figure..." Aya trailed off, excitement bubbling in her voice, "she's the same one from a thousand years ago! The one the tengu elders used to talk about—a mysterious shinigami-like warrior who appeared during the darkest times. Back then, she was the hot topic, ayaya! But I thought she retired centuries ago. What's she doing here now?"

Rain kept her expression neutral, though her mind reeled. 'A thousand years ago? So I was already active in Gensokyo back then... as a shinigami? Could that explain why Aya seems to recognize me?'

Aya, oblivious to her companion's inner turmoil, continued to speculate aloud. "Could it be that her reappearance has something to do with recent events? Like that mess at the Genbu Ravine? Or maybe even the celestial incident with Tenshi? Ayaya, I wouldn't be surprised if this Certain Death and... Rain Nanase, was it? That girl staying at the Hakurei Shrine... they might be connected somehow."

Rain stifled a grimace, keeping her voice steady. "What makes you think they're connected?"

Aya grinned, looking quite proud of herself. "Call it a tengu's intuition! Rain shows up out of nowhere, Certain Death makes her grand reappearance—don't tell me that's just a coincidence. But... what I can't figure out is why. Why now?"

Rain feigned interest, nodding along as if taking mental notes. 'She's sharper than I thought,' Rain mused silently. 'I'll need to be careful if I don't want her piecing things together.'

Aya leaned back, crossing her arms with a satisfied smile. "So, Maya-chan, what do you think? Pretty exciting stuff, right? Maybe you can help me uncover the truth as part of your training!"

Rain gave a polite smile, her crimson-red eyes glinting faintly. "It's certainly... compelling, Shameimaru-san. I'm learning so much already."

Aya grinned warmly, her wings fluttering slightly as she leaned closer to Rain—disguised as the adorable crow tengu Maya Gongenmaru. "You don't have to be so formal, Maya-chan. Just call me Aya-san! It's always nice to meet someone who appreciates my talents."

Rain—Maya—gave a small, almost bashful nod. "Aya-san, then," she said, her voice soft and innocent, perfectly fitting her guise. "By the way, have you ever had the chance to interview this Certain Death? It seems like the kind of scoop that'd be perfect for someone of your caliber."

Aya's eyes lit up, her enthusiasm nearly contagious. "Oh, ayaya, I wish! An exclusive interview with Gensokyo's most enigmatic figure? That would be the ultimate achievement! It's been a dream of mine ever since I realized she was back."

Rain tilted her head, her black feathered wings shifting as she clasped her hands together, feigning an eager expression. "If you want it that badly, Aya-san... I might just be able to make it happen for you."

Aya blinked, momentarily taken aback by the statement. Her sharp instincts flickered to life, but the playful tone in Maya's voice disarmed her suspicion. "Make it happen? Ayaya, you've got me curious now. What do you mean by that?"

Rain gave a knowing smile, her crimson eyes glinting mischievously. "Good choice," she said cryptically, before her tone shifted. "By the way, Aya-san... are you absolutely sure you've never met Certain Death before?"

Aya furrowed her brow in confusion, replaying the question in her head. "I don't believe we have... why?"

Rain's expression darkened, her sweet facade dropping in an instant. She let out a low, chilling chuckle. "Ohohoho," she said, her voice taking on a tone far removed from the bubbly crow tengu she had pretended to be. "But we have, Aya-san. In fact... we're meeting right, now."

Before Aya could react, a series of glowing, spectral chains erupted from thin air. Four ethereal hands materialized, each gripping a chain that shot toward Aya faster than her keen eyes could track.

"What the—?!" Aya barely managed to yelp before the chains coiled around her limbs. They clamped down with unyielding force, binding her wrists and ankles in place. Aya struggled, her wings flaring as she tried to pull free, but the magical restraints held firm.

Her sharp mind raced as panic surged through her. 'What just happened? This adorable little crow tengu… this rookie… she just caught me off guard? That's impossible!'

The air in the room grew heavier, colder. A swirling black mist began to gather around Maya, engulfing her small frame. Aya's sharp eyes watched, wide with disbelief, as the mist seemed to dissolve the disguise. The playful crow tengu girl was gone, replaced by a towering figure cloaked in an aura of death.

The mist cleared, revealing a woman clad in sleek, obsidian armor. Her toned midriff was exposed beneath the chest plate, and black gauntlets covered her arms. Black knee tights and armored boots completed her imposing look. A long, billowing black cape flowed behind her as if caught in a wind only she could feel.

Her piercing crimson eyes burned with intensity, far more vivid than before, framed by her long silver-white hair that gleamed like moonlight. In her hand, she held a massive black war scythe that seemed to hum with dark energy. The air around her felt suffocating, heavy with the weight of her presence.

Aya's voice caught in her throat as she stared, utterly stunned. "Wha… wha… what?!" Her mind scrambled to process the impossible. Just moments ago, this woman was an adorable, innocent tengu who wanted to learn from her. Now she stood as a towering figure of death, her aura exuding power and finality.

The figure stepped closer, her scythe's blade glinting menacingly as she leveled it toward Aya. The faint whisper of steel sent a chill down Aya's spine, her heart pounding as realization struck her.

The woman spoke, her voice smooth yet commanding, dripping with authority. "I am Certain Death." She tilted her head slightly, her crimson gaze pinning Aya in place. "You wanted an interview, didn't you?" A small, wicked smile formed on her lips. "Well, you're in luck… you've got my attention."

Aya's sharp mind connected the dots instantly. The picture she had taken, the figure she had been investigating… it was her. She was standing face-to-face with Gensokyo's most elusive legend, and she hadn't even realized it until now.

Rain—now in her towering, intimidating Certain Death form—stood tall over the restrained Aya, her crimson eyes gleaming with a mix of irritation and amusement. She twirled her massive war scythe with ease before planting its butt firmly on the ground. With a sigh, she rubbed her temple.

"Eugh, acting cute and all is just not my style," she muttered, her voice carrying a sharp, yet casual edge. She glanced at Aya, who was still wide-eyed, frozen in disbelief. "Had to restrain you, though. Knowing you, you'd probably get too excited and bring the whole mountain barging in here."

Aya snapped out of her initial shock, her expression flipping from awe to indignant pride. "What? No way!" she protested, shaking her head as much as the chains allowed. "I would never share this scoop with anyone else! This—this is a Bunbunmaru exclusive!" Her wings flapped uselessly in her excitement as she launched into a full-blown rant.

"You don't understand! The Bunbunmaru Newspaper is the pinnacle of journalistic excellence in Gensokyo! It's the most widely read, the most talked about, the only source of truth in this entire realm! People rely on me, Aya Shameimaru, to deliver the hottest, juiciest, most cutting-edge news out there! I mean, just imagine the headline: 'Legendary Certain Death Returns! Exclusive Interview Only in Bunbunmaru!' It would sell out! No—scratch that—it would redefine what it means to be a newspaper!"

Rain blinked, already regretting her choice of words. "Uh…"

But Aya was just getting started. "Do you know how much work I put into every issue? Tracking down leads, snapping the perfect photos, writing articles that are not only informative but also entertaining! It's an art! A craft! A—"

Rain raised a finger. "Aya—"

"And Bunbunmaru isn't just a newspaper; it's a lifestyle! A legacy! Do you know how many rivals I've outpaced? The Kakashi Spirit News? Pfft, amateurs! Their headlines are boring, their photos are blurry, and don't even get me started on their delivery times. The Bunbunmaru, though, is always on time! Every day, rain or shine—or even danmaku battles—my readers get the news hot off the press!"

Rain's left eye twitched. "Aya."

"And let me tell you about my special editions! Oh, you haven't lived until you've seen my full-page spreads on the Moriya Shrine festivals or the exclusive behind-the-scenes scoop on the Scarlet Devil Mansion's tea parties. Nobody else has the guts to go where I go or to cover the stories I cover! Why? Because I'm Aya Shameimaru, the fastest and—"

"AYA!" Rain finally snapped, her voice cutting through the rant like a blade.

Aya froze mid-sentence, her mouth still open as if she had more to say.

Rain exhaled slowly, her patience clearly worn thin. She rested a hand on her hip, glaring at the overexcited tengu. "Bunbunmaru this, Bunbunmaru that," she said with a growl. "How about you shut up before I bunbunbang you up?"

Aya blinked once, then twice, before the absurdity of the threat hit her. For a moment, there was silence.

And then she burst into laughter. "Bunbunbang me up? Ayaya~ That's hilarious!"

Rain rolled her eyes, muttering under her breath. "Why did I even bother coming here..."

Rain sighed heavily, her scythe shifting to her side as she crossed her arms, her piercing red eyes fixed on the immobilized Aya. "Let's just get this over with. I didn't come here to terrorize you or anything—tempting as that might be." Her lips curled into a faint smirk. "I came here to clear things up, or rather, to prevent you from twisting the story into something it's not."

Aya tilted her head, a faint chuckle escaping her lips despite her predicament. "Twisting the story? Ayaya~ That's a bit harsh, don't you think? I always aim to deliver the truth!"

Rain raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Oh, I know exactly what you're doing. You might call it truth, but we both know how often you 'direct the flow' to suit your needs."

Aya puffed out her chest—or at least attempted to, given her restrained position. "What I do is craft a narrative! Truth isn't a static thing; it's fluid, ever-changing, and my duty as a journalist is to guide it—like building a channel to carry water. It's not just about reporting facts; it's about creating a story that resonates. Besides," she added with a knowing smile, "there's no such thing as complete objectivity. Not in this world, anyway."

Rain scoffed, shaking her head. "Spare me the philosophy lesson. You and I both know the 'truth' you report is more of a half-truth at best, twisted to grab attention and sell papers. But I'm not going to stand here and debate ethics with you." She leaned in slightly, her presence looming. "I'm only here to make sure you don't turn this scoop of yours into something that damages more than it entertains."

Aya narrowed her eyes but remained calm, her sharp mind already at work. "Damages? Who exactly are you worried about? Yourself?" She grinned mischievously. "If it's just you, I'll admit, you make for quite the story, Certain Death. But you seem capable of handling whatever comes your way."

Rain frowned but kept her composure. "It's not about me." She waved a hand dismissively. "It's fine if you throw my name—or, well, my alias—around. I can deal with that. But don't drag others into your little schemes. That celestial brat, for example. I don't like her, but the fight between us was just a misunderstanding. There's no need to turn it into some sensationalized feud."

Aya's curiosity was piqued, and her sharp eyes glinted with interest. "Misunderstanding? Now that sounds like a story worth exploring. Care to elaborate?"

Rain clicked her tongue and shook her head. "Save it for the interview. You wanted one, didn't you?"

Aya smiled, undeterred. "Ayaya~ Of course! This will be the scoop of a lifetime!"

Rain sighed again, her patience visibly thinning. "Great. Just keep it clean, Aya. I don't need you turning a misunderstanding into the next big scandal."

Aya's grin widened, clearly enjoying the banter. "I can promise nothing… except that it'll be a story worth reading."

Rain muttered under her breath, gripping her scythe a bit tighter. "Why am I even bothering..."

Aya squirmed slightly in her magical bindings, tilting her head to one side. "Ayaya~ This isn't exactly ideal for an interview, you know. I need my Bunkachou."

Rain's crimson eyes narrowed suspiciously. "Your what now?"

"My Bunkachou! My trusty notebook for gathering the truth—well, most of it—and it's right here in my pocket. But I also need my hands to jot down your words, Certain Death-san," Aya said, her voice laced with dramatic flair.

Rain chuckled, her grip on the scythe tightening slightly. "Pulling a fast one on me, are you? Fine. Why not? If it all goes south, it's not me who gets the end of the stick." She snapped her fingers casually, and the chains binding Aya dissipated in a puff of shadowy mist.

Aya wasted no time. In a blur, she zipped closer to Rain, leaving a faint gust in her wake.

Rain blinked, taken aback by Aya's speed. 'Quick. That was quicker than I expected.'

Aya, however, wasn't concerned about Rain's thoughts. Her sharp, inquisitive eyes were already scanning Rain's form with the precision of a seasoned reporter. "Oh ho~ What do we have here?" Her gaze locked onto Rain's midsection. "Four-pack abs! Impressive!" she exclaimed, leaning in for a closer inspection, her voice rising in excitement.

She circled Rain quickly, her eyes now fixating on the massive black scythe. "And this! Such craftsmanship! A war scythe like this… Ayaya~ The aura it gives off is absolutely chilling! Just holding it must be terrifying!"

Rain rolled her eyes, clearly exasperated. "No touching."

Aya stopped abruptly, her hands frozen mid-air as if she had intended to reach out. She glanced up at Rain sheepishly, then chuckled. "Ah, right, right. Professional boundaries and all that!"

Rain let out a long sigh, resting her scythe against her shoulder. 'So much for teaching her a lesson.'

Aya flipped open her Bunkachou, her pen already dancing across the page as she began jotting down notes. "Now, where were we? Oh, right! Your imposing presence, your history, the truth behind the celestial fight—so much to cover!"

Rain just shook her head. "This is going to be a long one..."

Rain sighed, realizing the theatrics had run their course. With a smooth, deliberate motion, she twirled her war scythe once before holding it vertically. "This isn't needed anymore," she muttered, her voice tinged with exasperation. The massive scythe began to dissolve into wisps of black mist, disappearing into the void from which it came.

Aya watched the process with wide, sparkling eyes. "Ayaya~ What a dramatic weapon! It just vanishes like that? Incredible! Such flair—"

Rain cut her off with a sharp glance. "It's not a toy or a stage prop, Tengu. It's a weapon meant to end lives." She gestured towards a nearby chair. "Now, can we move this along?"

Aya, undeterred, gave a cheerful nod. "Of course, of course!" She hurried to grab a chair for herself while Rain settled into one across from her.

Rain leaned back slightly, crossing one leg over the other. "Let's just get this over with," she said, her tone firm yet tired. "Ask your questions. But remember—no twisting the story. I'm here to clear things up, not give you fuel for some sensational headline."

Aya smirked, her pen already poised over her Bunkachou. "I promise, Certain Death-san, you'll be pleased with the results! Now, where do we begin?"

Rain leaned back in her chair, resting her elbow on the armrest and her chin on her knuckles. "You tell me. I'm not the interviewer here." Her crimson gaze bore into Aya, unyielding yet strangely patient.

Aya perked up, flipping to a blank page in her Bunkachou. "Right, right! Let's start with the basics, shall we?" She tapped her pen against the paper in rhythm with her thoughts. "Why the sudden return? Gensokyo hasn't seen or heard from you in, well... centuries, if not longer!"

Rain crossed her arms, her tone casual but firm. "Simple. I just visited for leisure. No hidden agendas, no dramatic plans—just my own business."

Aya's eyes gleamed with curiosity, but she restrained herself from probing further—for now. "Hmm, I see. So, are you truly retired, then?"

"Yes," Rain replied with a nod. "As I said, I'm just visiting. Nothing more."

Aya jotted down the response quickly before glancing up with a sly smile. "Interesting, interesting! But why retire in the first place? Surely someone as... influential as you wouldn't simply disappear without cause?"

Rain shrugged, her demeanor nonchalant. "I just felt like it. No other reasons."

Aya paused, tilting her head slightly, as if trying to read between the lines. Rain's expression betrayed nothing.

Switching gears, Aya grinned. "Alright, last question for now: Are you acquainted with the Legendary Yokai Exterminator?"

Rain's expression didn't change, but there was a faint flicker of amusement in her eyes. "No. I've heard of her, of course, but there's no need for interaction."

Aya clicked her tongue in disappointment but dutifully wrote down the response. She paused after finishing her notes, stretching slightly and resting her pen hand on her hip.

"Let's take a short break before I dive into the next set of questions," she said, flashing Rain a quick smile.

Rain nodded slightly, closing her eyes for a moment. 'This isn't as tedious as I thought it would be,' she mused, though her calm exterior belied the sharp attention she kept on Aya's every move.

Rain opened one eye, catching the faint flicker of disappointment that crossed Aya's face as she closed her Bunkachou. A small smirk tugged at the corner of her lips.

"The truth sounds boring to you, doesn't it?" she said, her voice cutting through the silence like a blade. "I can see it written all over your expression."

Aya blinked, startled by the sudden remark. She opened her mouth to protest, then stopped, considering her words. "Well… it's not that it's boring," she said, trying to defend herself. "It's just… I suppose I was expecting something more dramatic? A hidden motive, a grand reason behind your absence or return. You know, something that makes for a better story."

Rain leaned forward slightly, resting her elbows on her knees. Her crimson eyes gleamed with quiet amusement. "So, you'd rather I lied and gave you something to stir the pot with?"

Aya raised her hands defensively, laughing nervously. "Of course not! I pride myself on reporting the truth, even if it's… less exciting than I'd hoped. I'm just saying, you're a legendary figure. People expect tales of heroism, villainy, or mystery."

Rain let out a soft chuckle, leaning back again. "The truth is rarely as glamorous as people want it to be. But that's the reality of it, isn't it?" She paused, letting her gaze linger on Aya. "Still, you're sharp enough to know there's always more beneath the surface. Maybe that's what keeps you digging."

Aya tilted her head, her curiosity reigniting. "Oh? Are you implying there is more to your story?"

Rain simply smiled faintly, giving no answer. "You're the journalist, Aya. Connect the dots however you like."

Aya flipped to a fresh page in her Bunkachou, the scratching of her pen filling the room. "Alright, let's move on to your work and abilities," she began, glancing up at Rain. "Care to elaborate on what you're capable of? Surely, someone of your stature must have quite the arsenal."

Rain crossed her legs, resting an arm on the back of her chair. "I don't reveal all my cards, Aya. But I can tell you enough to give you a taste of how I operated in my… previous job."

Aya frowned slightly, clearly hoping for more, but quickly adjusted her approach. "Fine, then let's start with something simple. How did you get the moniker 'Certain Death'?"

Rain's lips curled into a faint smirk. "Simple. If you're my target, it means you're certainly going to die. No exceptions. Beyond that, it's a testament to my record—never failed a mission, not once."

Aya's pen stopped mid-stroke. Her eyes sparkled with both awe and curiosity. "Impressive. And…?"

Rain leaned back with a shrug. "The name wasn't my idea, if that's what you're asking. Hecatia came up with it. She thought it suited my role as her subordinate—and the Yama's enforcer."

Aya nodded knowingly. "Ah, of course. All shinigami-related matters fall under Hecatia's jurisdiction as the goddess of Hell. I should've guessed." She jotted down more notes before looking up with a sly grin. "You know, people still talk about the legends. One rumor I've heard is that you mark your targets with a skull insignia, complete with the number of days before their demise. Is that true?"

Rain chuckled lightly. "Oh, that? Guilty as charged."

Aya tilted her head, intrigued. "But why go through the trouble? Surely your targets wouldn't escape anyway, so why give them a countdown?"

Rain's gaze darkened slightly, though her tone remained casual. "Consider it a courtesy. It's a warning to let them decide how they'll face their end. Run, hide, fight—it doesn't matter. In the end, death still comes. But at least they're not taken by surprise."

Aya shivered involuntarily, her pen hesitating above the paper. "That's… chillingly methodical," she murmured, before giving Rain a playful glance. "You're not planning to give me a mark, are you?"

Rain's grin turned mischievous. "Want a demonstration?" she teased. "I could write your name down as a test run. Purely hypothetical, of course."

Aya's eyes widened in alarm, and she clutched her notebook to her chest. "W-wait! I don't think that's necessary!"

Rain laughed softly, waving a dismissive hand. "Relax, Aya. The mark doesn't do anything by itself—it's just a sign, nothing more. I wouldn't waste my time marking someone unless it was official."

Aya exhaled in relief, though her expression remained wary. "You really have a dark sense of humor, don't you?"

Rain smirked again, clearly enjoying the tengu's reaction. "Comes with the territory."

Aya's eyes gleamed with excitement as she tapped her pen against her notebook. "Now, let's get to the juicy part. What really happened at Genbu Ravine? Why were you fighting with the Kishin Chiefs? I've heard whispers, but I'd rather hear it from the source."

Rain leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand, her expression a mix of amusement and exasperation. "Oh, that. They were just… missing me."

Aya raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. "Missing you? That hardly explains the chaos people described. It's not every day you see kishin chiefs clashing with someone of your caliber."

Rain smirked and shrugged. "You know how oni are—headstrong and prone to causing a scene. Besides…" She paused, leaning back with a sense of authority emanating from her posture. "They answer to me. I'm their Chief, The Hakaishin."

Aya blinked, her pen freezing mid-word. "Wait… you're their Chief? The one who commands them in Hell?"

"Exactly," Rain replied, her tone casual but firm. "Every kishin, every oni under them—they all fall under my jurisdiction. The only exceptions are those ranked higher than me: the Yama and Hecatia herself. No one else."

Aya whistled low, her expression a mix of admiration and disbelief. "That explains why they didn't hold back, I suppose. Kishin aren't exactly known for… subtlety. But still, why the spectacle? Why meet them in a fight?"

Rain chuckled, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "It wasn't a fight—it was more of a… spirited reunion. They have their ways of showing respect, and apparently, tossing me into combat was one of them."

Aya scribbled furiously in her notebook, her mind racing. "So, to clarify, you're saying you're the authority over the tormentors of Hell. That makes you…"

Rain shrugged again. "Their enforcer, their leader, their 'Hakaishin.' Call it what you want. But at the end of the day, they're my responsibility."

Aya grinned, her excitement palpable. "This is definitely headline material. You're not just 'Certain Death,' you're also the one keeping the kishin in line. What a story!"

Rain rolled her eyes at the tengu's enthusiasm, muttering under her breath, "Here we go again with the sensationalism…"

Aya flipped through her notes, her sharp eyes glinting with curiosity. "Alright, next question—what's the story behind your fight with Tenshi Hinanawi? I heard you gave her quite the beating. Care to elaborate on why Heaven's little brat ended up on the receiving end of your wrath?"

Rain sighed and crossed her arms, leaning back in her seat. "Not going to deny it—I did kick her ass. Hard." A small smirk played on her lips before she shook her head, as if brushing off the memory. "But the fight wasn't intentional. It all started because of a tool I use to mark my targets. Someone—I won't name who—found one of my scrolls and misused it, thinking it was just a normal piece of parchment."

Aya's pen froze mid-note. "A tool for marking your targets? You mean the infamous skull marks with the countdown? That explains the panic in Heaven."

"Exactly," Rain said, gesturing with her hand. "Tenshi got marked by mistake, and Heaven freaked out. You know how celestial bureaucrats are—overreacting without thinking things through. Tenshi, being the hot-headed brat she is, decided to confront me head-on instead of trying to clear it up peacefully."

Aya snorted, clearly amused. "That sounds so like her. Let me guess—she bit off more than she could chew?"

Rain chuckled darkly. "Oh, absolutely. She thought she could take me on, and, well… you saw the result. I didn't go easy on her, but the fight was a misunderstanding from the start."

Aya quickly jotted down the details, her mind racing with ideas for her article. "So, to sum it up: someone mishandled your tool, Heaven panicked, Tenshi made it worse, and you cleaned up the mess by flattening her?"

"Pretty much," Rain replied, shrugging nonchalantly. "It wasn't personal. Just… an unfortunate series of events."

Aya grinned, tapping her pen against her notebook. "Unfortunate for Tenshi, maybe. For me, though? This is gold."

Rain rolled her eyes. "Figures you'd think that."

Rain leaned back, her arms crossed, an air of calm indifference about her. "Anyway, we resolved it. No hard feelings between us now. Save for the bruises and cuts I gave her..." Her lips curled into a faint smirk. "She'll live."

Aya raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Resolved? As in, no grudges held despite you kicking her celestial butt?"

Rain shrugged. "She's a celestial. She'll heal fast enough, and maybe she'll think twice before jumping headfirst into another fight she can't win. We talked—or, well, she mostly sulked—and we're fine now. It's over."

Aya tapped her chin thoughtfully. "So no lingering tension? No secret plans for revenge on her part?"

"None," Rain replied flatly. "She knows better. Besides, even if she tried, we both know how that would end."

Aya chuckled, scribbling furiously in her notebook. "You have a way of putting things so… decisively. I like it. It's no wonder you have a reputation that precedes you."

Rain gave a wry smile. "Yeah, well, reputation or not, misunderstandings like this are a pain. Let's just say I'm not looking to make it a habit."

Aya looked up from her notebook, now seemingly satisfied with the interview, but there was one last question lingering in her mind. "So, one last thing," she began, eyes narrowing with curiosity, "do you plan on staying in Gensokyo longer? Or will you just disappear again?"

Rain tilted her head, considering the question for a moment. "I'm not really sure," she replied nonchalantly. "You might see me around here and there. Who knows?"

Then, her eyes sparkled with mischievousness, and she leaned forward slightly, her tone light and playful. "But just so you know, you definitely don't want to see me showing up at your front door one day... especially if you happen to have a death mark somewhere on your body."

Aya's eyes widened slightly, and she tensed at the mention of the death mark.

Rain let out a soft chuckle, her voice teasing. "Oh, and just for the fun of it, I might even put it on your buttcheek. Imagine the look on your face when you find out."

Aya blinked, her face flushing slightly, but she quickly recovered with a nervous laugh. "I'll make sure to stay on your good side, then! Wouldn't want that to happen."

Rain leaned back with a smirk. "Smart choice. Though, I think you'd look pretty funny with one there."

Aya chuckled nervously, quickly jotting down her last note before snapping her notebook shut. "Well, I think that's enough for today! You've definitely given me plenty to work with."

Rain gave her a lazy shrug. "Glad I could help."

Rain stood up, brushing off her hair as her crimson eyes locked onto Aya's. Her expression turned sharp, her voice dropping into a serious tone. "Just a reminder, Aya. Don't make a fool out of me, and keep your word to not twist this story into something messy. Otherwise..." She leaned slightly closer, her smirk darkening. "You'll be having dinner with me. And it's not the kind you're imagining. You're the dinner and more like a bird stew, to be precise."

Aya stiffened for a moment, a nervous chuckle escaping her lips. "Heh, noted. No twisting. Loud and clear."

Rain straightened, satisfied with the response, and began walking toward the door of Aya's workplace. Before she left, however, she stopped and turned around, her appearance suddenly shifting. The tall, intimidating Certain Death morphed into the cute and unassuming Maya Gongenmaru, a petite crow tengu with large, curious eyes. She tilted her head, putting on an adorable, innocent face.

"Though..." she said in a sing-song voice, her tone playful. "It would be quite interesting if you really are the fastest in Gensokyo. Would you be able to outrun death, I wonder? I'd love to prove it... but that's not how I work."

Aya blinked, her mouth opening to respond, but no words came out. Instead, she could only watch as Rain's — or rather Maya's — lips curled into a sly grin. With a soft laugh, she turned and walked out of the door, leaving Aya with a mix of confusion and relief.

Aya finally shook her head, muttering under her breath. "She really knows how to keep you on edge, doesn't she?"

As "Maya Gongenmaru," Rain strolled casually through the tengu settlement, her steps careful to blend with the natural movements of the bustling village. Her disguise—a red tokin, tengu geta, and traditional yamabushi garb—was flawless, but her mind buzzed with thoughts of how much easier it would have been to simply fly directly to the Moriya Shrine. Still, discretion was necessary, and she had no intention of drawing unnecessary attention.

Her peace was short-lived as a familiar voice called out sharply.

"You again!"

Rain inwardly groaned, but her outward expression remained neutral as she turned to face Megumu Iizunamaru, the chief of the crow tengu. Megumu's imposing figure stood out even among the tengu, her modern yet authoritative attire giving her an air of unquestionable superiority. She carried her tripod like a staff, and her sharp red eyes fixed on Rain with a scrutinizing glare.

"Slacking off again, are we?!" Megumu barked, stepping closer.

Rain's mind raced for a response. She didn't know this tengu personally but could tell she was a big deal, judging by her commanding tone and outfit. Her cover as an unassuming crow tengu seemed to be working too well.

Rain's lips twitched into a faint, forced smile. 'Of all the tengu to bump into twice in one day...' She offered a polite bow.

"I... wouldn't call it slacking, Chief," Rain mumbled, her voice soft but audible enough. "Just taking a brief walk. You know, to clear my mind for better focus later."

Megumu's sharp eyes narrowed. "Hmph. I didn't catch your name earlier. Remind me, what is it?"

Rain hesitated for a split second before replying, "Maya. Maya Gongenmaru."

Megumu crossed her arms, the gemstone on her pauldron catching the light. "Maya, huh? You're new, aren't you? Well, Maya, I don't tolerate laziness. If I see you idling about one more time, you'll find yourself cleaning the entire village as punishment."

Rain suppressed the urge to roll her eyes. Instead, she mumbled under her breath, "Must be nice to have so much free time to scold people..."

"What was that?!" Megumu's voice sharpened like a blade.

Rain immediately straightened up, waving her hands in a placating gesture. "Oh, nothing, Chief! Just saying it's admirable how you keep everyone in line so efficiently!"

Megumu stared at her for a moment, clearly unconvinced, before turning on her heel. "Don't let me catch you again. Now get moving!"

Rain gave a mock bow of submission, muttering a quiet, "Yes, Chief," as Megumu strode off.

Once Megumu was out of sight, Rain straightened and let out a soft sigh. 'Should've disguised myself as a high-ranking tengu instead. Would've saved me from this nonsense.' She shook her head and resumed her path toward the Moriya Shrine, her thoughts already focused on her next objective.

At the edge of the Wind God's Lake, Marisa Kirisame sat cross-legged on a patch of soft grass, idly twirling her broom between her fingers. The still waters of the lake shimmered under the afternoon sun, reflecting the majestic figure of the Moriya Shrine in the distance. Its distinctively thick shimenawa, far larger than the one at the Hakurei Shrine, was visible even from their current position, strung proudly across the shrine's entrance.

"Man, this is taking forever," Marisa muttered, tossing a pebble into the lake. It skipped twice before sinking into the water. "I get that Rain wanted to give Aya a piece of her mind, but she could at least be a bit quicker about it, ya know? Doesn't she know I'm not a fan of waiting?"

Alice Margatroid stood nearby, her arms folded and her expression unreadable as she gazed out at the serene expanse of the lake. She wasn't quite as restless as Marisa, but a hint of concern flickered in her blue eyes. "She told us to go ahead for a reason," Alice said softly. "It's not like her to take unnecessary risks. But still..."

"But still?" Marisa prompted, leaning back on her hands and squinting up at Alice.

Alice sighed, brushing a strand of golden hair behind her ear. "She has a habit of biting off more than she can chew. You know how she is—a magnet for trouble. And if she's dealing with Aya, there's always a chance things didn't go as smoothly as she planned."

Marisa chuckled, her grin widening. "C'mon, Alice. This is Rain we're talking about. She can handle herself, no problem. Probably gave Aya a good scare, too. I wouldn't be surprised if the tengu's feathers are still ruffled."

Despite Marisa's reassurances, Alice's fingers instinctively tightened around the hem of her dress. "I hope you're right. I just..." She trailed off, her gaze drifting toward the shrine. "Well, she's been through a lot lately. More than she lets on."

"Yeah, yeah, she's tough, though," Marisa said, waving a dismissive hand. "If she told us to wait, then we wait. Doesn't mean it's not boring as hell, though." She flopped onto her back, staring up at the sky.

Alice glanced down at her companion, her expression softening slightly. "Patience isn't exactly your strong suit, is it?"

"Nope," Marisa replied with a lopsided grin. "And it never will be."

The two fell into a comfortable silence, broken only by the gentle lapping of the lake's water against the shore. Despite her outward composure, Alice couldn't shake the uneasy feeling gnawing at her. 'Please don't get into too much trouble, Rain.'

Just as Marisa's impatience was about to reach its peak, a familiar figure emerged from the treeline near the Wind God's Lake, her silver-white hair catching the light and her mismatched eyes standing out as always. Rain, now back in her usual look, approached the pair with a casual wave, her katana lightly clinking against her hip as she walked.

"Yo, I'm back," Rain called, her voice laced with amusement and just a hint of weariness.

Marisa shot up from her spot on the ground, a wide grin on her face. "Finally! Took ya long enough. So, how'd it go? Did Aya end up a feather duster or what?"

Rain chuckled, running a hand through her hair. "Let's just say it was… eventful. Gave her a lesson, sort off, but she's crafty, I'll give her that. She got more out of me than I intended."

Alice tilted her head, concerned. "What do you mean by that?"

With a resigned sigh, Rain waved it off. "Nothing too bad. But on my way out, I got an earful from one of the higher-ups. Some tengu chief—I don't even know her name—thought I was slacking off because of my disguise. Apparently, they don't take kindly to 'newbies' lounging around."

Marisa burst out laughing, clutching her sides. "You? A 'newbie'? Oh, that's rich! What'd you do, bow and scrape like a proper little crow?"

Rain gave her a pointed look, her lips quirking into a smirk. "Keep laughing, Marisa. Maybe I'll drop you off in their village next time and let them chase you around for intruding. You know how territorial tengu can be, right?"

Marisa paused mid-laugh, her grin faltering for just a moment. "You wouldn't."

Rain leaned in slightly, her crimson and green eyes gleaming mischievously. "Try me."

Alice, standing off to the side, covered her mouth with her hand to hide a small chuckle. "It sounds like you had quite the adventure," she said, her tone light but with a hint of amusement.

Rain straightened, crossing her arms. "Their hierarchy's a little… intense. It's all about rank and authority. If I'd known I'd get treated like a lowly grunt, I would've disguised myself as a higher-up. But, hindsight's twenty-twenty, I guess."

Marisa, regaining her composure, snorted. "You? A tengu chief? Now that's something I'd pay to see."

Rain smirked, shrugging. "Maybe next time. For now, let's head to the shrine. I've had enough tengu politics for one day."

The three of them began making their way toward the Moriya Shrine, the distinctively thick shimenawa at its entrance coming into clearer view as they approached. Despite her earlier frustration, Marisa seemed to be enjoying herself now, while Alice stayed close to Rain, her lingering concern easing with Rain's safe return.

As Rain, Alice, and Marisa approached the Moriya Shrine, the peaceful atmosphere of the area was broken only by the sight of someone sweeping the grounds. It was Sanae Kochiya, her long light green hair swaying gently in the breeze as she worked, wearing her usual blue and white shrine maiden outfit, the light blue polka dots and stripes catching the light of the early afternoon sun.

She paused when she noticed the group approaching, and immediately, her face brightened with a warm, welcoming smile. However, as she recognized Rain, her demeanor shifted dramatically. Sanae bowed deeply, almost as if meeting someone of significant importance, her posture respectful and almost formal.

"Ah, welcome, Miss Rain!" Sanae greeted with a soft, graceful tone, her eyes gleaming with politeness. "It is an honor to meet you again, I trust you have had a pleasant journey?"

Rain blinked, clearly taken aback by the unexpected reception. This was an entirely different side of Sanae than what she remembered from their previous encounter. The last time they'd met, Sanae had been cheerful and friendly, but not quite this… reverent. It was almost as though Sanae were treating her like some kind of esteemed guest—three times more polite than she'd been before.

"Huh?" Rain muttered, her brows furrowing in confusion. "Uh, it was fine. But, um… you don't need to bow like that. I'm just… me." She shifted uncomfortably under the polite gesture. "No need to be so formal."

Sanae smiled even more gently, her eyes softening with kindness as she straightened up. "I apologize if I've made you uncomfortable. I just wanted to ensure you felt welcome here at the shrine. Kanako-sama and Suwako-sama spoke highly of you, so I wanted to extend my respect properly."

Rain's confusion only deepened, her thoughts racing. Kanako and Suwako? She hadn't met them yet, but the mention of their names was enough to plant a seed of curiosity in her mind.

Meanwhile, Marisa, ever the curious one, leaned in to whisper to Alice, her voice filled with mild amusement. "Did she just bow like she's greeting a royal or something? I didn't know Rain had that kind of reputation already."

Alice, who had been observing the exchange quietly, frowned slightly, her mind ticking over the possibilities. "It's odd, isn't it? She didn't act like this then…"

Rain, still unsure of how to respond, let out a small chuckle to try and ease the awkwardness. "Well, if I'm some big deal, I must have missed the memo." She gave Sanae an awkward smile. "But it's nice to see you again, Sanae. You're looking as energetic as ever."

Sanae's smile widened at the compliment, and she nodded politely. "Thank you! I've been busy with shrine duties, but it's always a pleasure to meet guests, especially someone as esteemed as you." She turned to gesture toward the shrine, her politeness unwavering. "Shall we begin the tour? I'm sure you'll find the sights interesting, and I'd love to show you around."

Rain gave a glance at Alice and Marisa, who both exchanged a glance of mild concern, still trying to piece together the reason behind this unusual behavior.

"Sure," Rain said, though she was still a bit puzzled by the sudden shift in attitude. "Lead the way, Sanae."

Sanae gave another polite bow before turning to guide them toward the shrine, her movements graceful and deliberate. The trio followed, still uncertain about the circumstances but willing to go along for the moment. The wind rustled through the trees, the sound of the distant Waterfall of Nine Heavens providing a gentle backdrop to the scene.

As they walked, Rain couldn't help but feel a lingering sense of unease. Something was off, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it.

As the group walked behind Sanae, the serene ambiance of the Moriya Shrine couldn't mask the unease that hung between them. Alice leaned closer to Rain, her voice low as she murmured, "What was that all about? Sanae doesn't usually act like this. Did something happen between you two before?"

Rain shook her head, equally baffled. "No, not really. The last time we met, she was just… normal. Polite, yeah, but not this polite." She sighed, glancing at Sanae's back. "It's like she's treating me like some kind of… I don't know, queen or something. And I've got no clue why."

Marisa snickered, crossing her arms behind her head as she walked. "Maybe she's just impressed by your shiny reputation as a legendary yokai exterminator, ze?"

Rain gave her a dry look, her tone laced with sarcasm. "Yeah, because bowing like that totally screams 'I'm afraid of your sword skills.' Come on, Marisa. That's probably not it."

"Hey, I'm just sayin'," Marisa shot back with a grin. "You are pretty famous, y'know. Maybe word of your escapades made it all the way up the mountain."

Rain let out a soft chuckle, glancing at Alice for support. "Do I have something on my face? Because it's starting to feel like I'm walking around with a giant neon sign that says, 'Be weirdly formal to me.'"

Alice, always the logical one, frowned thoughtfully. "This isn't just about reputation. Something's off. It's almost like she knows something we don't." She glanced at Sanae again, her expression suspicious.

Rain sighed, running a hand through her silver-white hair. "I've got no idea what's going on, but I've got this feeling in my gut… like something's about to happen. And it's probably going to make everything way more complicated."

Marisa smirked, nudging Rain with her elbow. "What else is new? You're like a magnet for chaos, Rain. Guess we'll just have to wait and see what this is all about."

Rain rolled her eyes but couldn't help smiling faintly. "Yeah, yeah. Let's just hope it's nothing too crazy this time."

With that, the group continued following Sanae, the uneasy feeling lingering in the air as they approached the shrine proper.

Rain glanced around the expansive grounds of the Moriya Shrine, her crimson and green heterochromatic eyes taking in the pristine surroundings. The shrine was majestic, its vibrant colors and immaculate architecture standing in stark contrast to the humble, weathered charm of Reimu's shrine.

Her gaze lingered on the thick shimenawa rope hanging prominently at the entrance, far more elaborate than the one at the Hakurei Shrine. The courtyard was spacious, with neat gravel pathways and a sense of order that seemed to resonate with the shrine's divine significance.

"This place is… really something," Rain remarked softly, half to herself. "It's so well-maintained. It's like the shrine practically glows." She turned to Sanae, offering a small smile. "You take good care of this place. It's impressive."

Sanae's cheeks flushed with pride, and she bowed slightly. "Thank you, Miss Rain. We work hard to keep the Moriya Shrine in the best condition possible. Your kind words mean a lot."

Rain nodded, her mind drifting to Reimu's shrine. "It's… quite different from Reimu's shrine," she admitted, her voice thoughtful. "Her place has a more rustic charm. It feels lived-in, warm in its own way." She chuckled lightly. "But maybe it could use a little more of this polish. Just a little."

Marisa, who had been silently listening, grinned mischievously. "Ha! You know, if Reimu had the funds, her shrine'd probably look like this too. But she's always broke, ain't she?"

Alice sighed. "Marisa, must you always bring that up?"

Rain laughed, shaking her head. "You're not wrong, though. Reimu's doing everything on her own, after all. No Kanako or Suwako to help out like here." She crossed her arms, her tone softening. "I'll help her out for as long as I can. Maybe we can spruce it up together, even if it's just a little at a time."

Sanae smiled warmly, clasping her hands together. "That's very kind of you, Miss Rain. Reimu's lucky to have a friend like you."

Marisa smirked, leaning closer to Rain. "Better hope she doesn't hear ya comparing her shrine to this one, though. She might take it personally!"

Rain chuckled, rolling her eyes. "Yeah, like I'd ever let her hear that. Let's just keep this between us, shall we?"

The group shared a lighthearted laugh as they continued toward the shrine building, the camaraderie easing some of the tension Rain had felt earlier.

The group finally reached the main shrine building, where the expansive grounds gave way to a more concentrated display of reverence and grandeur. Rain looked up at the intricate architecture, her eyes drawn to the massive shimenawa that framed the shrine's entrance. The sight was awe-inspiring.

"Hey, Rain. You looked so amazed, Reimu might feel personally attacked if she saw you admiring such a place." Marisa teased.

The group finally reached the main shrine building, where the expansive grounds gave way to a more concentrated display of reverence and grandeur. Rain looked up at the intricate architecture, her eyes drawn to the massive shimenawa that framed the shrine's entrance. The sight was awe-inspiring.

Kanako's gaze fell on Rain first, her piercing red eyes narrowing slightly in thought. Suwako tilted her head, staring at Rain with a similar curiosity.

The group finally reached the main shrine building, where the expansive grounds gave way to a more concentrated display of reverence and grandeur. Rain looked up at the intricate architecture, her eyes drawn to the massive shimenawa that framed the shrine's entrance. The sight was awe-inspiring.

Rain blinked, caught off guard. "Since we… last met? Have we met before?"

Suwako's eyes widened briefly before her lips curled into an amused smile. "Oh, that's right. You've got amnesia now, don't you?"

Rain frowned slightly, her confusion deepening. Before she could respond, Marisa burst out laughing. "Wait, Rain, you've got connections to master schemers like these two?!"

"Connections?" Rain asked, raising an eyebrow. "I have no idea what they're talking about."

Kanako and Suwako exchanged knowing glances before Suwako clapped her hands together cheerfully. "Well, it's a pleasure to meet you again, Raiden Rain Nanase!"

Rain froze at the sound of her full name. "Raiden…?" she repeated, her voice uncertain. "I didn't know I had another first name."

Marisa smirked, folding her arms. "What'd I tell ya? Another revelation is going on. Ya sure you didn't remember such a name?"

"I didn't," Rain replied firmly. "Or at least… I don't remember." Her heterochromatic eyes flickered with frustration and curiosity as she glanced at Kanako and Suwako. "How do you two know that name?"

Alice, standing quietly beside Marisa, simply observed, her face neutral but her eyes thoughtful.

Kanako stepped forward, a diplomatic smile on her face. "It's a long story, one best told over tea. Shall we sit down and discuss things properly?"

Suwako nodded in agreement, her playful demeanor tempered with a hint of seriousness. "Yes, come on. Let's have a proper chat. Sanae, could you prepare some tea for our guests?"

Sanae bowed deeply. "Of course, Lady Suwako, Lady Kanako. I'll bring it right away."

Rain's eyes lingered on Kanako and Suwako as the group was ushered to a sitting area within the shrine. Her unease remained, but so did her curiosity. Just what kind of past had she stumbled into?

The group sat around a low wooden table in a comfortable chamber within the shrine, the serene atmosphere a stark contrast to Rain's racing thoughts. The soft clinking of porcelain accompanied the quiet as Sanae poured tea for everyone, her movements graceful and deliberate.

Rain took a sip from her cup, the warmth spreading through her hands as she cradled it. For a moment, she allowed herself to enjoy the delicate flavor, but the question gnawing at her couldn't be ignored any longer. She placed the cup down and leaned forward slightly, her crimson and green eyes locking onto Kanako and Suwako.

"Alright," Rain began, her voice steady but tinged with anticipation. "You mentioned my name—my full name—and hinted that we've met before. What do you know about my past?"

Kanako and Suwako exchanged glances, a silent conversation passing between them. Kanako was the first to respond, her tone calm and measured. "You're looking for answers, aren't you? About who you were before this… amnesia?"

Rain nodded firmly, her hands tightening slightly around the cup. "I've been piecing things together on my own for a while now, but this is the first time someone's come forward who might actually know the truth."

Suwako leaned forward, resting her chin on her hands, her mischievous smile softening into something more contemplative. "Well, we can't say we know everything, but we do know quite a bit about you. Enough to confirm that you're not just an ordinary traveler or wanderer."

Rain's heart skipped a beat, but she kept her expression composed. 'Finally,' she thought. 'Someone who can give me some clarity.'

Marisa broke the momentary silence with a quip, grinning as she leaned back. "I knew you were trouble, Rain, but now I'm starting to think you're fancy trouble. What, were you some kind of bigwig back in the day?"

Rain rolled her eyes but didn't respond to Marisa's teasing, her focus fixed on Kanako and Suwako. "Go on," she urged, her voice calm but firm.

Kanako took a sip of her tea before placing the cup down delicately. "We'll tell you what we can," she said. "But some things are better understood with context. Let's start at the beginning, shall we?"

Suwako nodded, her playful demeanor returning slightly. "This is going to be an interesting conversation."

Rain's eyes narrowed slightly, her mind racing with possibilities as she braced herself for whatever revelations were about to come her way.

Kanako leaned back slightly, her hands resting on the edge of the table as she began to recount the story. "The first time we met you, it was during a time of upheaval—the unification of Japan. A long, long time ago. Back then, the faiths of this land were still forming. Buddhism hadn't arrived yet, and the people relied heavily on gods like us for guidance and protection."

Rain's brows furrowed slightly, her expression pensive as she listened. The mention of unification stirred something faint and distant in her memory, though she couldn't quite place it.

Suwako grinned and jumped in. "At the time, you were a general. Not just any general, mind you—a commanding figure leading an army. You were tasked with dealing with a rather large and nasty band of bandits hiding near a lake."

"The Wind God's Lake," Kanako clarified. "Although, back then, it was still part of the Outside World."

Rain tilted her head slightly, intrigued. "And you were there?"

Suwako nodded eagerly. "Oh, yes! We were already enshrined near the lake at that time. Not as grand as the Moriya Shrine is now, of course, but we had our share of worshippers."

"You could have just crossed into the area with your army and dealt with the bandits," Kanako added, her voice taking on a tone of respect. "But instead, you came to us first."

Rain frowned, leaning forward slightly. "Why would I do that?"

"Because you were a negotiator," Kanako said with a faint smirk. "You told us you wouldn't offer us your faith of worship, but you could offer us something better—your men's faith. You wanted our blessing for their safety as they crossed our land to deal with the bandits."

Suwako clapped her hands together, laughing. "I still remember the way you said it! 'I won't offer you my faith of worship, but I can offer you theirs.' You said it so sternly, too. It was pretty impressive." She mimicked Rain's supposed tone, her voice dropping to a serious pitch.

Rain blinked, stunned. "I said that?"

"Word for word," Kanako confirmed, clicking her tongue. "I'll admit, it was a damn good line. And you backed it up. Our worshippers and visitors increased after that ordeal. I don't know what you said to your men or the people they freed from the bandits, but they came to us with offerings and prayers. You kept your word."

Suwako leaned her chin on her hand, her golden eyes twinkling with amusement. "It's why we've remembered you all this time. Most generals back then wouldn't have bothered to even ask us for permission. They'd just trample through and be on their way. But you... you were different."

Rain sat back, her hands resting on her lap as she processed the story. It felt surreal, like listening to a stranger's history. Yet there was a faint sense of familiarity, as though some small part of her recognized the actions they described.

"I see," she murmured, her voice low. "I… don't remember any of it, but it sounds like something I would've done."

Marisa, leaning back with a smug grin, broke the silence. "So, you've got a knack for sweet-talking gods, huh? Makes sense, given how much trouble you seem to attract."

Rain gave her a pointed look but didn't reply, her mind too preoccupied with the weight of what she'd just heard.

Kanako leaned forward, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "You did well hiding your identity as a woman back then. It couldn't have been easy leading an army while keeping such a secret. I suspect your men never found out the truth, not even until the very end."

Rain blinked, taken aback. "I… hid my identity?"

Kanako nodded, her expression growing more serious. "Yes. That was part of the reason you earned our respect. When you came to ask for our blessing, you revealed the truth to us. You didn't need to, but you did it to gain our trust. That honesty left an impression."

Suwako leaned back, her hands behind her head, a mischievous grin on her face. "Yup! You took a huge risk telling us, but I think you knew we weren't going to spill the beans. And we didn't."

Marisa raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Wait, so why hide it at all? I mean, wouldn't it have been fine if your men knew?"

Alice also looked intrigued, her gaze shifting to Suwako. "Yes, why go to such lengths? Was it really necessary?"

Suwako's grin softened into a more thoughtful expression. "You have to remember, this was a long, long time ago. Back then, women weren't exactly seen as fit for positions of power, let alone leading an army. A woman commanding men in battle? It would've been unheard of. Some might've refused to follow her, or worse, betrayed her."

Kanako added, her tone dry, "It wasn't just about earning respect—it was about survival. If her men had found out, it could've jeopardized everything she worked for. People back then weren't as… progressive as they are now."

Rain frowned slightly, her hand absently brushing against her chin. The idea of hiding her identity felt foreign, yet it resonated with her in a strange way, as though the weight of such a secret still lingered somewhere in her subconscious.

Marisa whistled, her expression a mix of admiration and disbelief. "Man, that's wild. So, you were pulling off this big charade the whole time? Pretty impressive, I gotta say."

Alice nodded, her gaze softening as she studied Rain. "It must have been difficult. Not just hiding who you were, but carrying the weight of command on top of it."

Rain gave a small shrug, though her expression betrayed her unease. "I guess it must've been. I just… don't remember. But it's strange… hearing all of this, it doesn't feel completely foreign. Maybe some part of me still remembers what that was like."

Kanako leaned back again, a knowing smile on her face. "It's no surprise. Secrets like that leave a mark. Even if you don't remember, the strength it took to carry them is still part of who you are."

Suwako chuckled softly, her golden eyes twinkling. "And hey, you pulled it off. That's no small feat, especially back then. You've got my respect for that, even now."

Rain managed a faint smile, though her mind was clearly racing with thoughts.

Sanae clapped her hands excitedly, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Ooh! Ooh! Can I tell her the next part? Please?"

Kanako gave a small sigh but nodded. "Go ahead, Sanae. Just don't overdo it."

Sanae stood up, placing her hands dramatically on her hips. "Alright, listen up! This is the best part!" She paused, glancing at Rain with a theatrical flair before adopting a serious tone. "After all that and all, many, many years passed… and Miss Rain came back! But this time, she wasn't just some general anymore…"

She paused for effect, holding out her hand as if to summon the perfect moment of suspense.

Marisa leaned forward, grinning slyly. "Oh, c'mon, get on with it, ze. Don't leave us hangin'."

Alice, calm as always, sipped her tea and waited, while Rain tilted her head curiously, patiently allowing Sanae her moment.

Finally, Sanae threw her arms wide. "She was now promoted—or should I say, she worked her way up—to become the ruler of Japan! A Shogun, to be precise! Imagine that!"

Marisa's jaw dropped, and for a moment, she seemed genuinely awe-struck. "Whoa! Rain, that's… that's somethin'! I mean, I knew you were cool and all, but this? This is crazy, daze!"

But then, with a mischievous glint in her eyes, she added, "Uh… so what's a shogun, exactly?"

Alice sighed lightly, shaking her head. "Marisa, do you really not know?"

Suwako chuckled, leaning forward with a playful grin. "I'll take this one. A shogun is basically the military ruler of Japan. Back in the day, the Emperor was more like a spiritual figure, while the shogun held the real political and military power. Think of it like being the top general, but with the authority of a king. Every decision they made could shape the entire country."

Kanako crossed her arms and nodded. "Precisely. The shogun had control over the daimyo—regional lords—and governed the entire military system. It wasn't just a title; it was a position of immense responsibility and influence. To rise to that level, you didn't just need strength. You needed intelligence, strategy, and the ability to command respect from everyone."

Marisa whistled low, leaning back in her seat. "Dang, Rain. So you were, like, the ultimate big shot back then, huh? That's beyond cool!"

Rain blinked, her hand resting on her chin as she processed the revelation. "The ruler of Japan… a shogun?" She murmured softly, her tone more reflective than surprised. "I don't remember any of this, but… it feels heavy somehow. Like it's something I carried for a long time."

Sanae beamed, clearly proud of her storytelling. "See? Told you it was the best part!"

Alice glanced at Rain thoughtfully. "To think you held that kind of power… it's no wonder you've always seemed so composed, even when you didn't have your memories."

Rain gave a small, uncertain smile. "I don't know about being composed. But… I guess that's something, isn't it?"

Marisa chuckled, giving Rain an amused glance. "No wonder you always sit with such perfect seiza!"

Seiza is a traditional Japanese sitting posture where one kneels with their legs folded under them, sitting on their heels. This position, while formal and respectful, can also be quite uncomfortable if held for long periods. However, it is often seen as a sign of discipline and good manners, especially in formal settings or when interacting with others in a respectful way. The way Rain sat with such ease in this posture hinted at a deep-rooted training in the customs of old Japan, something that would be second nature to someone of her status.

Rain blinked, surprised by the observation. "Seiza, huh? I suppose it is a habit," she mused, not fully aware of how it had become second nature to her.

Kanako leaned back, her eyes narrowing thoughtfully as she spoke. "Though your role as a shogun back then is a bit different than what we know now," she said, a sly grin forming. "You were called the Shadow Shogun, who ruled from the shadows."

Marisa furrowed her brows in confusion. "Wait, what's that mean?"

Suwako, who had been quietly listening, chimed in. "It means she was using a puppet leader, or a Shogun, to control the country while still staying the true ruler behind the scenes." She grinned. "It was a way to protect her identity and status as a woman. As you can imagine, it would've caused quite the uproar if the country found out it was being run by a woman. Only a few people knew the truth, one being the Emperor himself, and the others were close, trusted confidants."

The group fell silent for a moment, processing this new revelation. Marisa raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "Well, that's some real scheming there. You had everything figured out in the past, didn't you? Seems like even losing your memory might be part of one of your plans," she said with a mischievous grin.

Rain, her gaze slightly distant, quipped back, "I don't think so... or at least, I think... wait..." She paused as the realization dawned on her. "Guess that means I'm old, huh?"

Marisa blinked, a surprised expression crossing her face. "You're more worried about that?" she asked, stifling a laugh.

Rain, realizing her focus had shifted slightly, shrugged with a small smile. "Well, the idea of getting older is a bit of a shock... but, really, what else do I have to go on?" she added, glancing around the group. "It's more... important to me that I get to know who I was, what happened, and how this all connects. Time and age are just numbers."

Suwako, amused by the exchange, leaned forward. "Ah, but time does have its own way of reminding us all. You may have lost your memories, but the power and influence you once held are still there, even if you don't quite remember how you used them."

"True," Alice agreed thoughtfully. "You still have that aura about you. Even now, there's something about you that commands respect."

Rain gave a small nod, unsure of how to respond but thankful for the words. The conversation lingered for a moment, each person processing the weight of the discussion, before Kanako broke the silence.

"Regardless," Kanako began, her voice shifting into a more serious tone, "It is a reminder of how far you've come, even if you don't fully remember. And the fact that you're here now, amidst all of us, means something, whether you recall everything or not."

Sanae, still caught up in the shock of the moment, raised her hand slightly as if to make a point. "This is so different from what I learned in history class!" she exclaimed, her eyes wide. "I mean, your name didn't even show up in the textbooks! It's like you never existed."

Kanako gave a small, knowing smile, as if this was a conversation she had been expecting. "Well, of course not," she said calmly. "No such thing will be written or known for obvious reasons."

Sanae blinked, a bit confused. "Obvious reasons? What do you mean?"

Kanako leaned back in her chair and glanced at the others. "It's simple. If people knew the truth about how she ruled as Shogun, it would have caused chaos. A woman ruling in such a position during those times? It would have disrupted everything. It's why it was kept secret."

Suwako, chiming in from her usual laid-back position, added, "Exactly. The past Rain didn't care if her exploits were recorded or not. As long as her power and influence were effective, that was all that mattered." She gave a little chuckle, almost nostalgically. "In her eyes, history books were just a formality."

Sanae looked from one face to another, trying to wrap her head around the fact that one of the most powerful figures in Japan's history had been someone who, until now, had been lost in the annals of time. "That's... so different from what I thought," she said, still processing. "To think you'd go that far just to stay hidden, to keep everything running smoothly."

"Sometimes," Kanako said, her tone light, "it's about keeping the balance of power. And Rain," she smiled at Rain, "you knew how to do that well."

The others nodded in agreement, as if they too shared a quiet respect for what Rain had once accomplished.

Kanako's face turned serious, her gaze sharp as she looked at Rain. "But power and greed are mankind's greatest weaknesses," she said gravely. "Many tried to usurp you, to take you down—especially those who learned your secrets."

Alice and Marisa both stiffened at this revelation, their eyes wide. Rain, meanwhile, sat quietly, her expression unreadable as she listened intently.

Kanako continued, her voice steady. "And they succeeded. Before your plan for unification could be completed, they brought you down. Yes, Rain, you are the unifier of Japan—the idea was yours to begin with." She leaned forward slightly, her tone almost accusatory but laced with respect. "It's a good thing you had the foresight to write down your plans. Later on, those notes were said to have been discovered by none other than Oda Nobunaga, who continued your legacy."

At the mention of the name, Marisa and Alice both gasped.

"Oda Nobunaga?!" Marisa exclaimed, practically jumping out of her seat. "You mean the Oda Nobunaga? The guy who started the whole unification thing? That Nobunaga?"

Alice's expression was a mixture of shock and intrigue. "To think he followed Rain's ideas… It's incredible. He's one of the most influential figures in history."

Oda Nobunaga (1534–1582)

Oda Nobunaga was a powerful and ambitious daimyo during Japan's Sengoku period, a time of constant warring between clans. Known as the "Demon King," he was a revolutionary leader who sought to unify Japan under his rule. Nobunaga was a pioneer in the use of firearms in battle, employing innovative tactics that often overwhelmed his enemies. His relentless pursuit of power and his willingness to break tradition earned him both fear and admiration.

Though Nobunaga achieved significant strides in unifying Japan, he was ultimately betrayed by one of his own generals, Akechi Mitsuhide, and forced to commit seppuku at the Incident at Honnō-ji. Despite his death, his groundwork laid the path for his successors, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu, to eventually complete the unification of Japan.

Suwako, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke. "Like Rain," she said in a softer tone, "Nobunaga suffered the same fate. He was brought down by betrayal, just like she was."

Marisa tilted her head, connecting the dots in her mind. She turned to Rain, her eyes narrowing with a mix of curiosity and playfulness. "So, Rain, let me ask you something… Were you planning to be a tyrant to unite Japan? You know, like they say about Nobunaga."

Rain sat still for a moment, digesting everything she'd just heard. Finally, she took a deep breath, her expression contemplative. "I think… I can say yes," she said slowly. "Though I don't remember, I feel that the answer was yes. It's a hard path my past self had chosen, but I understand it."

Her heterochromatic eyes focused on the floor as she spoke, her voice steady but somber. "I've heard what mankind has been capable of since the day they walked this earth, and violence was one of their constants. Perhaps my past self had already understood what makes a man… and how to make them bend. One of them is through fear."

The room fell silent for a moment before everyone began to react.

"That's harsh," Alice said, frowning slightly. "But I suppose, given the era you lived in, it might have been the only way."

Marisa scratched her head, looking torn. "I mean, I get it, but still! A tyrant, Rain? That's so not like the you we know now."

Suwako leaned back, arms crossed, and gave a shrug. "Fear can be a tool. Not a pleasant one, but an effective one. And Rain's era wasn't exactly a time for soft diplomacy."

Kanako, however, gave Rain a piercing look. "You may have chosen fear, but you also inspired loyalty and admiration. That's why people followed you even when they didn't know who you really were."

Sanae, who had been quietly listening, finally spoke. "It's kind of scary to think about… but I guess you did what you thought was right for the time."

Rain smiled faintly, her hands clasped in her lap. "It's strange," she murmured. "Hearing all of this feels like listening to a story about someone else. But I can't deny that it resonates with me." She glanced up at Marisa and added with a small smirk, "And no, losing my memory wasn't part of some grand scheme. I'm not that devious. Erm... at least I think so..."

Marisa rolled her eyes and laughed. "Well, good! I'd hate to think you planned that too." She then grinned. "But seriously, though—using fear to make people follow you? That's bold. But you? You'd totally make it work."

The conversation carried on, the group divided but respectful in their opinions, each offering a unique perspective on Rain's past choices. Rain, for her part, stayed quiet, listening carefully, as if piecing together the fragments of her identity one revelation at a time.

Sanae broke the silence, her voice steady but cheerful. "Well, it already happened, so there's no point in dwelling on it. Besides, all of that led to the Japan we have today, where people are free and united. Isn't that what really matters?"

Kanako, looking impressed, reached over and patted Sanae on the head. "That's a great answer, Sanae," she said warmly. Then her expression grew more serious as she turned to Rain. "The reason we know about all of this is because you told us yourself. You sought refuge at our shrine after the betrayal happened. You were… devastated."

Rain blinked at her, stunned. "I told you?"

Kanako nodded. "Yes. You stayed with us for a while, gathering your strength. But eventually, you left to continue your journey. After we parted ways, that was the last time we saw you. Until today."

The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of Kanako's words settling over everyone. Then Kanako spoke again, her voice calm but firm. "Now, Rain… what will you do with this information?"

All eyes turned to Rain, who looked thoughtful, her heterochromatic gaze fixed on her hands. After a moment, she exhaled deeply, clearly grappling with her emotions.

Rain leaned back slightly, her expression relaxed yet thoughtful. "Nothing," she said with a faint smile. "There's no need for the Shadow Shogun anymore, right? If my goal was unification and that's been achieved… then there's really no reason for me to step in. Besides," she added with a chuckle, "paperwork is boring. I know I'd have a mountain of it on my desk. And, well…" She crossed her arms and smirked. "Reimu would kick my butt if I even tried to take over Gensokyo."

Hakurei Shrine

Reimu was sitting on the porch of her shrine, enjoying a rare moment of peace with a cup of tea. Suddenly, she sneezed violently, startling herself and spilling her tea all over her lap. As she flinched back, she accidentally bit her tongue.

"Gah! Damn it!" she cursed, hastily putting the teacup down and wiping at her soaked clothes. "Stupid tea… stupid tongue… stupid sneeze!" She grumbled under her breath, her brow furrowing. "This must be Rain's fault somehow. Her luck's probably rubbing off on me again."

She sighed heavily, staring at the now empty cup and the mess. "I just hope she's not in trouble. Again."

Back to Moriya Shrine

The group stared at Rain, processing her blunt yet practical response.

Marisa was the first to break the silence. "That's… surprisingly simple." She grinned. "But knowing you, it makes sense. You're the kinda person who'd let someone else do the boring stuff."

Alice crossed her arms, her expression half-curious, half-amused. "You've certainly got a pragmatic outlook. But I suppose it fits you."

Sanae smiled, nodding enthusiastically. "I think that's a good answer, Miss Rain! It's nice to know you're not planning to revive your role as some secret ruler."

Kanako, after a long moment of studying Rain's expression, smiled faintly. "Well said. It's better this way. You've already done your part for history. Now, you can decide your own path without the weight of a nation on your shoulders."

Rain leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees. "Thanks. That's exactly what I want to do—figure things out at my own pace. No armies. No secret plans. Just… life."

Marisa smirked. "And avoiding paperwork, huh?"

"Exactly," Rain replied with a smirk of her own.

Rain tilted her head, a curious expression crossing her face. "So, uh… what's next on this shrine tour? Got anything else interesting to show off?"

Marisa immediately perked up, raising a hand with a mischievous grin. "Oh! You wanna hear about the underground Geyser Center?"

Rain blinked. "The what now?"

Sanae jumped in, her voice excited. "It's this facility under the surface of Gensokyo, right at the base of the Youkai Mountain. Both the kappa and us—the gods of the Moriya Shrine—perform all sorts of experiments and research projects there. It's even connected to the Nuclear Furnace in the deepest part of the Underworld!"

Rain's eyebrows shot up. "Wait. You're telling me this shrine has a lab? Underground? With a nuclear furnace? Isn't this supposed to be a place of faith?"

Marisa chuckled, leaning forward with her signature smirk. "Yeah, you'd think shrines are all about praying and faith, huh? But nah, this place is part shrine, part whatever you call that stuff that is absurd. Gotta hand it to the kappas and these gods—they're blending the old ways with crazy modern tech."

Rain squinted suspiciously. "And what exactly happens down there?"

"Stuff you don't wanna know," Marisa quipped. "And people you really don't wanna meet. Trust me, it's better if you avoid it. Especially if you value your eyebrows."

Rain raised a skeptical brow. "That bad, huh?"

Marisa nodded enthusiastically. "Oh, totally. For example, there's this one resident: Utsuho Reiuji. Dumb as a brick and packing enough heat to incinerate half of Gensokyo if she gets loose. She's got this whole 'nuclear fusion' gig going on thanks to Kanako's meddling. Sweet job on paper, right? Except she misunderstood the whole deal and decided she needed to take over Gensokyo instead. Talk about overachieving!"

Rain blinked again, her voice flat. "A bird. With nuclear powers. That tried to take over Gensokyo."

"Yup!" Marisa said, cackling. "And I had to deal with her! She was blasting everything in sight, practically shouting, 'Look at me, I'm the sun!' I swear, it was like trying to have a reasonable debate with a bonfire. All heat, no brain."

Sanae pouted slightly. "Hey, she's not that bad now! Utsuho's gotten a lot calmer since those days."

Marisa waved her off. "Yeah, yeah, after getting her butt handed to her. But lemme tell ya, that fight? Crazy. She chucked stars, nuclear beams, and… I don't even know what else. It was a miracle I didn't end up fried to a crisp."

Rain crossed her arms, looking amused. "So what you're telling me is… you've already had your share of tussles with this bird?"

Marisa grinned, striking a mock heroic pose. "Oh, you know it! Marisa Kirisame—defender of Gensokyo, protector of shrines, and expert nuclear bird-fighter!"

Rain laughed, shaking her head. "You've got quite the resume, don't you?"

"Darn right, I do!" Marisa declared proudly.

Rain leaned back slightly, glancing over at Marisa, curiosity in her eyes. "And Reimu? How does she deal with all of this? I mean, no offense, but it sounds like the Moriya Shrine and the Hakurei Shrine are, well, rivals in faith, right?"

Marisa rubbed her chin thoughtfully, a grin spreading across her face. "Oh, you don't know the half of it. Let me tell you about the time Reimu and I had to deal with the whole Moriya Shrine mess. It's a fun story. You might get a laugh out of it."

She leaned forward, making sure everyone was listening. "So, there was this one time when a mysterious shrine maiden—this Sanae—showed up at the Hakurei Shrine, telling Reimu that she needed to shut things down. She claimed that the Moriya Shrine, with its shiny new god and all, was gonna be the big thing, and Hakurei Shrine wasn't needed anymore. So naturally, Reimu wasn't too happy about that, and I had to tag along as her 'backup.'"

Sanae and Kanako exchanged uneasy glances at the mention of their shrine's conflict with the Hakurei Shrine.

Marisa continued, undeterred. "So we decided to climb Youkai Mountain to check things out. On the way up, we found out that this new god, Kanako, was causing all sorts of trouble. She brought an entire shrine and a lake with her, and she was making waves with the kappa and tengu. It was a mess, to say the least. The mountain was in chaos with all these new godly ambitions clashing with the native youkai."

Kanako sighed, a small, amused smile curling on her lips. "Ah, yes. That was when we were trying to settle things with the tengu, wasn't it? They certainly didn't appreciate my... arrival."

Suwako shook her head. "You could say they were a little hostile at first."

Rain's eyes sparkled with intrigue. "Sounds like an interesting time. So, Reimu's response to all of that was just to climb the mountain and get in your face?"

Marisa smirked, leaning back. "Pretty much. And when we got to the Moriya Shrine, it wasn't exactly a warm welcome. But hey, Reimu never backs down. She's stubborn like that."

Kanako, who had been listening quietly, added with a chuckle, "She wasn't the only one who was stubborn. I recall you getting quite defensive when we tried to make our case."

Reimu's name caused a flicker of tension between the two shrines, and Suwako raised a finger in the air, as though to add something more serious. "The real question is… how could we settle it when our approach to faith, our gods, our beliefs… they're all so different?"

Marisa shrugged casually. "I don't know. But somehow, Reimu and Kanako eventually found a way to work things out, I guess. They did a lot of arguing, but it was all about faith. There's a lot of pride in both shrines, y'know?"

Kanako nodded slowly. "Indeed. A clash of ideologies. It was never going to be easy."

Sanae chimed in, trying to change the mood a bit. "But in the end, things settled down, right? Both shrines found a balance. Reimu and Kanako might bicker, but there's a respect there now."

Marisa nodded, a playful grin tugging at the corners of her mouth. "Well, yeah. But at the time, it was more about Reimu and me getting through all the youkai shenanigans while figuring out what the heck was going on with all the new changes around here. Trust me, it was one wild ride. And Utsuho... let's just say she wasn't the only thing trying to blow up the place."

Rain chuckled lightly at the chaos described. "Sounds like Gensokyo's never short of drama."

Kanako glanced at Rain, a wry smile on her face. "You have no idea."

Marisa shrugged, still enjoying the banter. "But anyway, long story short, it was the usual for us. Arguing, fighting, but eventually finding a way to get along. After all, that's how things work in Gensokyo, right?"

Rain nodded slowly, considering the situation. "I suppose that's the way of things in a land like this. Sometimes, it's all about balancing power, pride, and faith."

Kanako then turned serious for a moment, addressing Rain directly. "Though I have to admit, when Reimu is involved, she makes things a lot more complicated. But her dedication to Gensokyo is undeniable. Even if it's, well... her own way of doing things."

Suwako nodded in agreement. "True. And as for the Moriya Shrine... well, it's all about making sure the balance of faith continues. It's what keeps things running, even when it's a bit chaotic."

Marisa chuckled at the thought. "Sounds like a good summary of Gensokyo in general."

Rain turned her gaze to Alice, a curious smile tugging at her lips. "So, Alice, I'm guessing you get roped into these kinds of things often too?"

Alice sighed lightly, her expression softening as she met Rain's gaze. "I wasn't involved in the incident with the Moriya Shrine, but I did play a part in what happened afterward. Let me explain…"

She adjusted her posture, folding her hands neatly in her lap. "One winter day, a geyser suddenly erupted near the Hakurei Shrine, forming a hot spring. Of course, that got everyone's attention. A hot spring in the middle of winter? It was a rare sight, and naturally, Reimu and Marisa decided to build a spa there. But something wasn't quite right."

Alice's tone shifted, more serious now. "Earth spirits started appearing around the hot spring. At first, they didn't seem to bother anyone—especially not Reimu or Marisa, who were more focused on their spa idea—but youkai, including myself, became suspicious. The sudden appearance of earth spirits wasn't something to take lightly."

Rain tilted her head, intrigued. "So, what happened next?"

Alice continued, her voice measured. "Reimu and Marisa were conscripted by the youkai community to investigate. They were given a device to stay in contact with someone on the surface. Marisa, being Marisa, dragged me into it as her partner to provide support and guidance."

Marisa interjected with a grin, "You mean to keep me from blowing things up, daze?"

Alice shot her a pointed look but didn't deny it. "Let's just say I was there to ensure you stayed focused on the investigation. Anyway, we discovered that the geyser was connected to the underground—a place most of us avoid. The source of the issue lay deeper, near the remains of the old Hell and a place called the Blazing Hell."

Rain blinked. "Blazing Hell? That doesn't sound like somewhere you'd want to go willingly."

Alice nodded. "It wasn't, but we didn't have much of a choice. Strange things were happening underground, and if left unchecked, they could've escalated into a bigger problem. That's when we or rather Marisa encountered the cause of the disturbance—an overly ambitious youkai with power over nuclear fusion. Let's just say she had some... dangerous ideas."

Marisa leaned back, a smirk on her face. "Yeah, dangerous is putting it lightly. That birdbrain almost turned Gensokyo into a flaming crater. Lucky for everyone, I was there to save the day."

Alice rolled her eyes. "Right. Let's not forget the part where I had to keep you from charging headfirst into a nuclear meltdown."

Rain chuckled softly at their dynamic. "Sounds like quite the adventure. And I thought my luck was bad."

Alice nodded thoughtfully. "It's just another example of how unpredictable things can get here. You never know when something seemingly harmless, like a hot spring, will lead to an encounter with earth spirits, ancient powers, or even remnants of Hell."

Rain tapped her chin. "And here I was thinking Gensokyo couldn't surprise me any more than it already has."

Marisa grinned, leaning forward. "Stick with us, Rain. You'll learn that in Gensokyo, things are always more complicated than they seem."

Rain stretched her arms over her head and let out a contented sigh, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "Speaking of hot springs... I could definitely use one right about now."

Marisa chuckled, leaning back on her hands. "Oh, you're not wrong, daze. After all this talk about battles, betrayals, and underground chaos, a nice soak sounds pretty good, huh?"

Alice raised an eyebrow. "Just make sure the hot spring you pick doesn't have any strange spirits or hidden geyser connections. We've had enough surprises for one lifetime."

Rain laughed. "Noted. I'll make sure to double-check for earth spirits or erupting geysers before I dip a toe in."

Sanae clapped her hands together, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Well, the Moriya Shrine has a hot spring nearby! It's one of our most popular attractions. You can soak and enjoy the beautiful view of the mountain!"

Kanako smirked, folding her arms. "Of course, it's another way we attract faith. Nothing like a hot spring to draw in weary travelers."

Rain nodded thoughtfully. "Sounds perfect. A hot spring on the mountain, no unexpected enemies, just pure relaxation. Maybe this shrine tour isn't so bad after all."

Marisa leaned closer, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "You better enjoy it while you can, Rain. Knowing you, something's bound to stir up trouble. You're like a magnet for chaos!"

Rain rolled her eyes playfully. "I'll take my chances. A little peace and quiet won't kill me... I think."

The sun began to dip behind the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over the landscape. The cool evening breeze whispered through the trees surrounding the hot spring, and the quiet chirps of distant insects added to the tranquil atmosphere. It was the perfect time for a relaxing soak, and Rain couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation.

Sanae had led them to the hot spring, guiding them through the lush, serene grounds. The steaming water bubbled invitingly as the group gathered by the edge of the spring. The others made their way to the changing area, each of them preparing for the bath in their own way. Rain stood outside the changing room, a towel in hand, her mind momentarily racing.

She glanced at the others, who were already disrobing and heading towards the water. There was a slight hesitation in her posture—should she wrap herself in a towel first, or just take the plunge without it? She wasn't entirely sure of the custom. After a few seconds of internal debate, she decided to go the straightforward route and simply step into the water—naked.

The decision made, she slowly removed her clothes, revealing her toned, athletic physique. Rain's body was a work of quiet strength, with muscles that hinted at the battles she had fought and the training she had undergone. Her abs, hidden beneath her usual attire, were now fully visible—slightly defined with a subtle four-pack that traced down her midsection. It was a sight that most would find impressive, a testament to the discipline and rigor of her past life. Her skin was smooth, with a slight glimmer from the steam rising from the spring. Her silver-white hair cascaded down her back, wet from the humidity of the air, and her heterochromatic eyes sparkled with a mix of anticipation and contemplation.

As she stepped into the warm water, she glanced back at the others. Marisa and Alice were already coming in, seemingly with no hesitation, following her example.

Marisa was the first to speak, her voice dripping with playful sarcasm. "Hey, you've really been training, huh? You've definitely grown in a lot of ways, but something tells me there's a part of you that didn't grow physically." She teased, her eyes wandering over Rain's figure, clearly focused on the toned body but also taking a jab at her chest, which, while fit, was more modest in size.

Rain shot back without missing a beat. "Oh, they're not that much worse than yours, Marisa." She chuckled, her confidence unwavering. It was clear she didn't take offense to the teasing—after all, she had spent enough time in battle to know how to handle a little ribbing.

The two women shared a moment of lighthearted banter, before Rain's gaze shifted to Alice, who was stepping into the water next. She paused for a moment to appreciate Alice's figure, her eyes briefly admiring the curves and lines of her friend's body, before speaking up.

"Looking fine, Alice. As expected." Rain commented, her voice warm and genuine, the teasing edge gone for a moment.

Alice raised an eyebrow, a slight blush creeping up her neck at the unexpected compliment. "You're just saying that because you're trying to keep up with me," she quipped, though there was a note of appreciation in her tone. She adjusted herself in the water and shot Rain a smirk. "But I'll take the compliment."

As the three of them settled into the warm, bubbling water, the conversation shifted to more relaxed topics. They all leaned back, letting the heat soothe their muscles. Marisa stretched out, a satisfied sigh escaping her lips. "Ah, nothing like a good soak to unwind. I think this is the best idea we've had in a while."

Rain, feeling the warmth envelop her, closed her eyes for a moment, taking in the quiet peace of the moment. The gentle splash of water, the soft rustling of the trees, and the occasional chatter of her companions—it was a rare kind of tranquility, and she savored it.

"Agreed," Rain murmured. "It's been a long time since I've had a moment like this. No battles, no schemes, just peace."

Marisa gave a contented smile. "You're not wrong, daze. Though, with you around, trouble seems to follow. It's like you're a magnet for it. I think I've been saying that for a while now."

Rain raised an eyebrow but said nothing, her lips curling into a playful grin. For now, though, she was content to enjoy the calm of the hot spring, the friendly banter, and the simple luxury of a moment where nothing more was required of her than to relax and soak in the warmth.

Marisa, eyes twinkling with mischievous intent, let out a lazy chuckle as she relaxed into the warm water. "Y'know, this would be a lot more fun if we had some drinks to go with it," she mused, her tone playful as she glanced around the area, almost as if hoping there was a hidden stash somewhere.

Alice, ever the responsible one, immediately shot down the suggestion with a sharp look. "No way. We all know how Rain gets when she's had too much to drink," she said, crossing her arms as she gave Marisa a pointed look.

Marisa's expression shifted to one of recollection, a faint blush creeping up on her cheeks. She couldn't help but think back to the last time Rain had gotten drunk, which hadn't been all that long ago. It was a disaster, in a way that only could be when someone like Rain—flirtatious, confident, and full of energy—had a little too much alcohol.

The last thing they needed was to have Rain getting clingy and flirtatious in the vulnerable state they were all in, surrounded by warm water and—Marisa couldn't help but admit to herself—looking more than a little irresistible. The thought made her cheeks burn even brighter, and she quickly submerged herself under the water, blowing a few bubbles as if to drown out the thought. Her heart raced with the image of Rain, drunk, getting handsy, and maybe doing things she would regret—or maybe not. Either way, it would definitely be something to avoid in this setting.

Alice, noticing Marisa's reaction, raised an eyebrow, but she too felt the heat rise in her cheeks. Her mind drifted, ever so briefly, to the same scenario. She was no stranger to the flirtatious side of Rain, and while it was amusing at times, the thought of it happening here, in such close quarters, brought a flush to her face. She let out a small puff of air, steam rising from her as she quickly turned her gaze away, trying to focus on something—anything—other than what could happen if Rain got a hold of some sake. The mood had definitely shifted, and it wasn't exactly the peaceful moment she had envisioned.

Rain, oblivious to the current tension, looked around with a confused expression as she felt the heat rising even further. "Huh," she mused, completely unaware of the shift in atmosphere. "It's pretty warm here. What if someone pees? Heh, no one would know, right?" She gave them both a playful smirk. "Should we test it out?"

She paused, before laughing lightly to herself, the tone of her voice light and carefree. "But knowing Marisa, she might've done it already."

Her joke hit at a perfect moment, unwittingly breaking the silence, but also killing whatever hint of intimacy that had begun to develop. Marisa quickly splashed water in her direction, trying to mask her embarrassed expression as Alice, too, let out a sharp sigh, shaking her head.

"God, Rain…" Marisa muttered, trying to ignore her own growing discomfort. Alice just glanced at Rain with a mix of exasperation and amusement.

And though the air was still thick with an undercurrent of tension, Rain's genuine innocence managed to shift the mood once again. She was completely unaware of the thoughts swirling around her friends and continued to joke in her usual carefree way, which was exactly what they needed to steer the conversation away from the slightly more awkward territory they had found themselves in.

Rain's mischievous grin remained on her face as she chuckled, "I'm just joking," her voice light and teasing. She leaned back in the water, looking around at the peaceful surroundings. The soft orange and pink hues of the setting sun bathed the landscape, casting a gentle glow on the trees that lined the hot spring. The distant peaks of Youkai Mountain were slowly becoming shrouded in a faint mist, the cool evening air mixing with the warmth from the springs.

The water around them bubbled gently, a natural feature of the geyser, sending soft ripples across the surface. The spring itself sat in a secluded valley, surrounded by lush greenery, with rocks and stones scattered here and there. A few wildflowers had bloomed near the edge of the spring, their colors a sharp contrast against the smooth, gray stone. Birds called in the distance, their songs echoing softly through the trees. The serene silence of the place felt like a balm to the soul, soothing and calm, the perfect retreat from the chaos of Gensokyo.

"Reimu sure is missing out on this," Rain muttered, her gaze fixed on the peaceful horizon.

Marisa snorted, still floating lazily in the water. "She's been dying for a chance to get in one of these," she said, glancing over at Rain with a grin. "And here you are, getting one free of charge. Reimu's gonna have a few words for you when she gets back to the shrine."

Rain raised an eyebrow, a sly smirk pulling at the corners of her lips. "Well, she didn't get invited, did she?" She splashed a wave of water in Marisa's direction, the sound of it slapping the surface filling the air. "Guess that means I'm the special guest here."

Marisa, already soaked from the splash, laughed loudly. "Ah, I see how it is," she teased, shaking her head. "I'm just a tagalong, huh? Well, you might've been invited, but I'm the one who brought the fun." She sent a retaliatory splash Rain's way.

Before Rain could react, Marisa was already reaching for a second splash, aiming directly for Rain. And that's when the real battle began. Water flew in every direction, splashing across their faces and creating small waves that rippled across the water's surface.

"Hey!" Alice, who had been quietly enjoying the hot spring on her own, let out a slight sigh as the battle escalated. She glanced between Rain and Marisa, her eyes narrowing slightly as both of them seemed intent on getting her involved. "I'm not really—"

But it was too late. Marisa, quick on the draw, sent a well-aimed splash at Alice, soaking her through. Alice's eyes widened in surprise, and in that moment, the water war was no longer optional.

"Hey! No fair!" Alice spluttered, trying to avoid the second round of water Marisa sent her way. She had tried to stay out of it, but now she was in the thick of it, splashing water back with a playful growl. "Alright, you two, you want to start a fight, huh?" Her cheeks flushed slightly, but there was an amused gleam in her eyes as she swirled water in her hands, ready to defend herself.

Marisa, triumphant at getting Alice involved, gave a loud laugh. "There we go! That's the spirit!"

The three of them were now fully engaged in an all-out water fight, water splashing, hands cupped and throwing it at each other with wild abandon. Rain had the advantage, of course, with her carefree energy, sending wave after wave of water toward Marisa, who was equally eager to retaliate. Alice, a bit more composed, was caught between trying to stay on the defensive and laughing at the absurdity of it all.

Sanae and the others, still outside the spring, watched from the sidelines, chuckling at the spectacle. "I knew this would happen," Sanae said, shaking her head with a smile. "I never thought Miss Rain would be so... playful."

"It's probably been a while since they've had a moment like this," Kanako added, observing the lively scene with a small, fond smile. "She's been through a lot, but it's good to see her laughing."

Suwako, leaning back against a rock, seemed content to watch the chaos unfold. "As long as they don't break anything, I'm good," she added, smiling softly. "But honestly, they seem to be enjoying themselves. That's what matters."

Back in the hot spring, the water fight was in full swing. Rain's laughter rang out, infectious and carefree, as she splashed Marisa right in the face. "That's what you get for calling me a tagalong!" she teased, already getting ready to splash Alice next.

Alice, soaked but not defeated, quickly retaliated with a grin. "You think you can out-splash me? Think again!"

And as the sun dipped lower in the sky, painting the clouds in brilliant shades of red and purple, the three of them were fully immersed in the moment. For once, all of them could forget their troubles and just enjoy the warmth of the spring, the company of friends, and the simple joy of a carefree moment.

As the playful banter continued between Rain, Alice, and Marisa, Kanako, still sitting at the edge of the spring, called over to Sanae, her voice clear. "Sanae, you're done with your duties, right? You're free to join them."

Sanae looked up, her face brightening as she gave a quick nod. "Ah, thanks, Kanako-sama! I'd love to join in. I could really use a good soak." She stretched slightly before making her way over to the spring, shedding her outer garments as she went. The others made space for her, and Rain watched her approach with a quiet curiosity.

Sanae stepped into the water, her movements graceful, and just as she was about to settle herself in, Rain couldn't help but glance over—and her eyes widened in surprise.

Sanae's figure was... well, impressive, to say the least. Her chest, a proud and undeniable testament to the "Mountain of Faith," was far more than what Rain had expected. It was almost comical in comparison to her own. Rain's jaw dropped just slightly, and she muttered under her breath, not intending anyone to hear, but the words slipped out anyway, "What the—those are mountains of faith..."

The realization hit her all at once. She'd been staring at Sanae's chest, not because she wanted to, but because it was impossible not to! And as much as she tried to look away, she could feel her own annoyance building, a bit of jealousy gnawing at her. She looked down at her own modest frame and sighed internally. "Why can't my chest just… grow like that?"

Marisa, catching the glance and seeing the direction of Rain's thoughts, grinned widely. "Ah, so this is why you agreed to the tour, huh? Getting a sneak peek at Sanae's mountains of faith."

Rain immediately shot back, flustered, "No! That's not—ugh, not at all!" She quickly turned her head to the side, hoping to avoid any more unwanted attention on the situation.

But of course, she couldn't stop her eyes from following Sanae as she moved further into the spring. The way her body moved, the water rippling around her… it was impossible not to notice. Rain felt a slight twitch in her hands, and she had to physically stop herself from slapping those "mountains" away in irritation. "Stop looking," she mentally chastised herself, but her thoughts were fighting against her will.

Desperate to distract herself, Rain turned her gaze to the left. But of course, there was Marisa—who still had her chest in full view. "Great. Now I'm looking at Marisa," she thought, and quickly snapped her gaze to the right, hoping to escape the situation.

But no, there was Alice, still close by in the water, and now Rain was in the exact same predicament: everywhere she turned, she was still confronted with someone's chest. It was like she had nowhere to look without seeing such a familiar figure.

"Gods, why does everything feel like it's mocking me right now?" Rain muttered to herself, desperately trying to focus on something else. Anything else. But every time her eyes drifted, they met either Marisa or Alice's chest, and it was making her more and more frustrated.

"Is it me," Rain continued under her breath, "or am I just surrounded by walking... mountains of faith...?"

Marisa, noticing Rain's flustered behavior, couldn't help but tease her further. "Heh, looks like someone's a little... distracted. You okay there, Rain?"

Rain, her cheeks tinted with a faint flush, shot her a glare. "No! I'm fine, just—just fine," she stammered, trying and failing to hide the fact that she was absolutely not fine. The conversation was quickly becoming a lot more awkward than she'd expected.

Sanae, blissfully unaware of the inner turmoil she was causing, settled herself into the water with a soft sigh. "Ahhh... this feels so nice," she murmured contentedly. "I can't remember the last time I had a chance to just relax like this."

Alice, who had been observing the whole situation with a slightly amused expression, decided to offer a little distraction herself. "Sanae, you're right. This is really nice. I've missed having moments like this."

Marisa, now seeing the opportunity for some mischief, leaned over and whispered to Alice. "You know, I'm pretty sure Rain's getting a little more than she bargained for here. She's really distracted now. Maybe we should keep things light and fun. What do you think?"

Alice glanced at Rain, who was doing her best to look like she wasn't completely overwhelmed by the situation. A small chuckle escaped her lips, and she gave Marisa a knowing look. "I think it's better we don't push her any further."

Sanae, completely oblivious to the mental turmoil around her, smiled brightly as she leaned back into the warm water, stretching her arms behind her. "This is so good. I'm glad I decided to join you all. It's been so busy lately, and I've been meaning to take some time for myself."

Rain sighed, still trying to ignore the distractions that surrounded her. She glanced out at the horizon, where the sun was now fully setting, casting a warm golden hue over the spring. "Yeah, it's nice... I guess," she muttered, still a little off-balance.

And so, as the group continued to relax in the spring, the mood was lighter than before. Even though Rain was still mildly annoyed by her own lack of faith, the playful atmosphere allowed her to forget her insecurities for a moment. They all soaked in the tranquility of the moment—if only for a brief while.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and the golden hues of twilight faded into the deep blues of evening, the group emerged from the hot spring, refreshed and relaxed. Their laughter still echoed softly in the crisp air as they toweled off and began dressing. Sanae, ever the dutiful host, helped gather their belongings, while Rain, Alice, and Marisa exchanged quiet remarks about how enjoyable the experience had been.

Marisa stretched her arms overhead, her trademark grin still plastered on her face. "Man, that was just what I needed. The water here is really somethin' else."

Rain, tying the sash of her attire, smirked. "Don't get used to it, Marisa. You were just tagging along, remember?" Her tone was playful, devoid of the earlier annoyance.

Once dressed, the group approached the shrine's entrance where Kanako, Suwako, and Sanae stood waiting to see them off. Kanako spoke first, her voice carrying a mix of authority and warmth. "Consider this visit a token of thanks for your actions in the past."

Rain nodded in understanding, she bowed slightly. "Thank you for your hospitality. It's been... enlightening."

Suwako, wearing her ever-cheerful smile, waved enthusiastically. "Come back anytime, okay? And next time, I'll challenge you to a game of danmaku myself!" Her playful tone made the group chuckle.

Sanae stepped forward, clasping her hands together. "It was really nice having you all here. Please visit again soon."

With final goodbyes exchanged, Rain, Alice, and Marisa started their descent down Youkai Mountain. The air was cool and serene, the quiet broken only by the distant rustle of leaves and the occasional call of a night bird. The mountain was tranquil now, a far cry from the chaos Rain imagined during the tales earlier in the day.

Alice glanced at the dimly lit path ahead. "We should take the aerial tram again to avoid the tengu territory. They're not likely to bother us, but it's better not to risk it."

Both Rain and Marisa nodded in agreement. "Good call," Rain said, adjusting her bag on her shoulder. "I'm not in the mood to get chased off a mountain tonight."

They made their way toward the ropeway station, their voices soft against the stillness of the evening. As they boarded the tram and began the smooth glide down toward the base of the mountain, the trio admired the breathtaking view of Gensokyo at night, lights twinkling in the distance like scattered stars.

Back at the Moriya Shrine, Kanako and Suwako lingered near the entrance, the evening breeze playing with their clothing and hair. Suwako's playful demeanor shifted as she noticed Kanako's pensive expression.

"What's on your mind, Kanako?" Suwako asked, tilting her head.

Kanako crossed her arms, her gaze fixed on the darkened landscape below. "I received reports earlier about the fusion reactor. Something's off. There's a substance down there—possibly crude oil, but I can't be certain."

"Crude oil?" Suwako repeated, her tone curious but concerned. "That shouldn't be there. You're planning to check it out?"

Kanako nodded. "First thing tomorrow morning. If there's an issue, we need to address it immediately. The reactor's state is too critical to ignore."

Suwako gave a thoughtful hum, tapping her chin. "Want me to come along? Two heads are better than one."

Kanako's lips curved into a small smile. "I might take you up on that. For now, though, let's rest. Tomorrow might be a long day."

As the two goddesses turned back toward the shrine, the stars above Gensokyo shimmered brightly, an unspoken reminder of the balance they worked tirelessly to maintain.

As they descended safely from Youkai Mountain and began their flight back toward Reimu's shrine, Rain suddenly slowed her pace, her gaze wandering toward the distant lights of the Human Village. The warm glow spilling out from the houses and lanterns gave the village an inviting appearance against the darkened landscape.

Rain gestured toward the village. "You know, I've never actually seen the Human Village at night. What's it like?"

Marisa and Alice stopped beside her, hovering mid-air. "It's... a village," Marisa said with a shrug, though a playful grin tugged at her lips. "Not much different at night, just darker."

Rain crossed her arms. "I still want to check it out. It's not like I get invited to see things like this often."

Alice raised an eyebrow. "You're insisting now?"

Rain smirked. "Call it curiosity."

Marisa groaned theatrically but waved her hand. "Fine, fine, let's go! I'd hate to miss the chance to see people fawn over you again, oh Legendary Exterminator."

With that, the trio shifted direction and glided toward the Human Village. As they approached, the streets came into clearer view, illuminated by lanterns hung on poles and at the entrances of homes. The village was quieter than during the day, though a few figures moved about, tending to late errands or enjoying the evening air.

When they landed at the village gates, a pair of guards standing watch immediately straightened up. One of them, a burly man with a spear, squinted at the approaching figures before his eyes widened in recognition. He elbowed his companion and whispered something before both stepped forward with respectful bows.

"Lady Rain," the first guard said, his voice filled with reverence. "It's an honor to see you here tonight. Are you here to check on the village's safety?"

Rain blinked, momentarily caught off guard by the warm reception. She quickly composed herself, offering a polite nod. "Uh, yes, of course. Just making sure everything's in order."

The second guard smiled. "We're grateful for your protection. Your deeds as the Legendary Exterminator haven't been forgotten."

Rain's lips twitched into a sheepish smile, while Marisa, standing behind her, barely suppressed a snicker. "Oh, look at you," Marisa teased. "Even after all this time, you're still the star of the show. Must be nice, huh?"

Rain shot her a playful glare. "Yeah, yeah, laugh it up. It's not like I asked for this."

The guards exchanged confused glances but quickly resumed their polite stances. "Please let us know if there's anything we can do for you during your visit," one of them said. "The village is in good hands with you around."

"Thanks," Rain replied, her voice softer now. "But I'm just here to... uh, take a walk."

As the guards returned to their posts, Rain turned to Alice and Marisa, exhaling deeply. "I didn't think anyone would still remember me like that."

Marisa chuckled, nudging her with an elbow. "Well, when you're the big-shot yokai slayer from the past, it's kinda hard to forget. Bet you've got statues somewhere in here."

Rain groaned. "Don't start."

Alice smiled faintly as they began walking into the village, the quiet streets welcoming them. "You might as well get used to it. You left quite the impression, after all."

Rain said nothing, her gaze drifting to the lantern-lit pathways and the faint hum of life still present in the village. The serene atmosphere was a sharp contrast to her usual adventures, and she found herself smiling despite Marisa's teasing.

The trio wandered deeper into the village, blending in with the peaceful night, though Rain couldn't shake the feeling of being watched—not in a hostile way, but with admiration.

Lotus Eaters Chapter 12.5: The Customer Who Can't Handle Sake

Season 135 - Year of Sun, Winter, and Earth Late Autumn

It was late autumn in Gensokyo. The chill of the season had crept into the air, and with each passing evening, the days grew shorter. The skies had taken on that familiar grayish hue that often heralds the last stretch before the first snowfall. Trees shed their leaves, leaving behind a landscape where the earth seemed to gather its thoughts in silence. As they walked through the Human Village, the trio couldn't help but feel the bite of the cold as it settled into their bones.

"Good thing we had that hot spring today," Alice remarked, wrapping her arms around herself as she tried to hold onto the warmth from earlier. The memory of the steam rising from the hot spring still lingered in her mind, a gentle reminder of the comfort it had provided.

Marisa chuckled, her breath visible in the cool evening air. "Yeah, couldn't have been better timing. Gensokyo's cold this time of year, and there's no beating a hot bath after a day like this."

Rain nodded, her eyes glancing at the people around them. "I never thought I'd enjoy something like that. But it was... pleasant." She glanced at Alice with a slight smile. "And you both were right, it did help a lot."

The trio continued their walk, making small talk about the recent cold snap and the coming of winter. It was a transition from the vibrant autumn colors to the quiet, still days of winter. There was something about this time of year that always made Gensokyo feel more serene, like everything was taking a deep breath before the storm of snow and ice.

As they walked through the streets of the Human Village, Marisa suddenly stopped, a gleam in her eye. "Hey, I know a place where we can get a drink to warm up."

Rain raised an eyebrow, but Alice just sighed. "You just never stop, do you, Marisa?"

Marisa grinned back at her. "Come on, Alice. It'll be fun. I know the place, and it's not far from here."

With little objection from the others, the three made their way to Geidontei, a small, traditional Japanese-style bar nestled in the heart of the village. The building stood slightly apart from the others, the wooden exterior aged with time, and the warm glow of light shining through the paper-covered windows seemed like a welcoming invitation.

As they approached, Rain looked up at the large, handwritten sign hanging above the door. "Geidontei... What does that mean?"

Marisa, of course, had an answer ready. "It means 'whale drink pavilion.' But there's something special about the kanji in the name. Instead of the usual kanji for male whales, it's a different one, the one for female whales. It refers to when something powerful swallows up something small in one gulp." She shrugged. "It's an old term, usually for how powerful countries would invade smaller ones."

Rain raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the meaning. "Powerful, huh? That sounds... ominous."

Alice, always one to focus on practicality, added, "It's an interesting name for a bar. I've never been here before, but I've heard it's a popular spot for the locals. I assume it's not too rowdy."

Marisa, in her usual carefree way, smirked. "Yeah, right. Not yet, at least." She leaned toward the door, ready to enter, but paused for a moment, looking at Rain and Alice. "You two coming in?"

Rain shook her head gently. "I'll pass on the drink. Last time, I ended up in a bit of a... situation. I'm fine just looking around for now."

Alice nodded in agreement, glancing at Marisa. "You know how Rain is when she's had a little too much."

Marisa grinned, unfazed. "Right, right. I'll just grab something quick. You two wait for me outside."

The door creaked open as Marisa entered the bar, leaving the two women standing outside, watching the warm light spill from within. As the door closed behind Marisa, Rain's gaze lingered on the quiet street before them. The night had a peaceful stillness, with only the occasional murmur of voices from inside Geidontei and the sound of the wind rustling the leaves.

They stood there for a moment, the scent of wood and warm sake in the air, and Rain felt a sense of calm as the evening enveloped them. But even as she enjoyed the peace, she couldn't help but wonder about what this place held beneath its simple exterior, especially considering the strange significance of the name.

For now, though, she had more pressing matters to focus on—like the peaceful village before her and the people who lived within it. Gensokyo, after all, never truly stopped being full of surprises.

Inside Geidontei, the dimly lit space hummed with a quiet energy. The warmth from the lanterns reflected off the wood-paneled walls, and the faint smell of stewed vegetables and sake lingered in the air. Marisa stepped into the cozy bar, her boots making a soft tap as she moved past the heavy, beaded curtains and into the main room. The low murmur of the patrons was barely audible over the clink of glass and the soft swish of a drink being poured.

At the counter, a cheerful figure caught Marisa's attention immediately. Miyoi Okunoda, the waitress and self-proclaimed poster girl of the bar, was behind the counter, cleaning a cup with a cloth. Her vibrant pink hair and green eyes sparkled with warmth as she noticed Marisa entering. The blue whale-shaped hat on her head and the matching whale-emblazoned apron gave her a quirky, almost whimsical appearance. Her smile was wide, her demeanor open and inviting.

"Ah, Marisa!" Miyoi greeted, her voice sweet and bright. "You're right on time! You're my last customer before closing up for the night. Seems like you've got good timing." She set down the cloth and leaned on the counter, her posture friendly but alert, as though always ready to serve with a welcoming spirit.

Marisa, already familiar with the bar's setup and the waitress herself, grinned in response. "Yeah, I figured I'd pop in for a quick drink before heading off." She leaned forward slightly, glancing at the various bottles lining the shelves. "How's the night treating you?"

Miyoi's smile softened, and she gave a small, playful shrug. "Busy enough, but nothing I can't handle." She motioned to the bar area, where a few regulars were chatting quietly, nursing their drinks. "But you're lucky; I was just about to close for the evening. You must've known, huh?"

Marisa chuckled lightly, knowing better than to ask too many questions. She was aware of Geidontei's somewhat elusive nature, especially its after-hours activities, but she never pushed for details. "Well, I've got a good sense for these things." She winked, but Miyoi just gave her an amused smile in return.

With a fluid motion, Miyoi picked up a bottle of sake, her movements precise, almost practiced. She poured a generous amount into a small glass before sliding it toward Marisa. "There you go. One of our best, just for you."

Marisa grinned and reached for the drink, her eyes gleaming with a mixture of anticipation and appreciation. "You really know how to treat your customers, Miyoi."

"Only the best for you, Marisa," Miyoi responded with a small giggle, her eyes twinkling mischievously. She then straightened up, wiping her hands on her apron. "I'll be here for a bit longer to clean up, but feel free to enjoy your drink. Just don't stay too long, alright? I'm shutting down soon."

Marisa gave a quick salute. "I won't overstay my welcome, I promise." She took a sip of the sake, savoring its warmth as it spread through her chest. For a moment, the outside world seemed far away, and the quiet ambiance of the bar settled over her like a blanket.

As Miyoi continued her duties, Marisa let herself relax for a moment, letting the familiarity of the place and the warmth of the drink ease her into a comfortable silence. She could always count on Geidontei to provide a moment of calm after a busy day, even if the night had yet to fully unfold.

As the beaded curtains parted again, Alice and Rain stepped inside. The warmth of the bar's interior provided immediate relief from the chilly autumn air, and Rain instinctively rubbed her hands together, muttering something about the cold. She cast a glance at Marisa, who was already enjoying her drink at the counter, and sighed with mock exasperation.

"Figures," Rain remarked, her tone teasing. "We'll just sit here and wait until Marisa's done." She moved toward an empty table near the corner, pulling out a chair with a soft scrape against the wooden floor. Alice followed suit, her expression neutral but her eyes scanning the room with mild curiosity.

Behind the counter, Miyoi's cheerful demeanor faltered the moment her gaze landed on Rain. Her eyes widened slightly, and she froze mid-motion, still clutching the cloth she had been using to polish a glass. A bead of sweat formed on her temple, and she felt her heart skip a beat. The Legendary Yokai Exterminator? Here?

To Miyoi, Rain's presence was nothing short of alarming. While the human patrons of Geidontei might have welcomed her as a hero of old, Miyoi saw only potential disaster. Her thoughts raced. 'Does she know about the yokai gathering later? Has she come to exterminate us?'

Rain, oblivious to Miyoi's sudden distress, settled into her seat and glanced around the bar before her gaze landed on the waitress. Her heterochromatic eyes—crimson in one, green in the other—seemed to pierce right through Miyoi, who stiffened under the scrutiny.

Rain tilted her head slightly, her voice casual but curious. "Hey, you alright over there?" She leaned forward a bit, noting the waitress's increasingly nervous demeanor. "Why are you sweating so much? It's not that hot in here."

Miyoi forced a laugh, her hand clutching the edge of the counter as though to steady herself. "Oh, uh, it's nothing!" she stammered, her voice a little too high-pitched. "Just been busy, that's all. Lots of cleaning and running around, you know how it is." She quickly grabbed a tray and busied herself arranging some glasses, though her movements were a bit too brisk to appear natural.

Rain raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced but unwilling to press the issue. "If you say so." She leaned back in her chair, folding her arms as she shifted her focus to the warm ambiance of the bar.

Alice, ever observant, glanced at Miyoi but said nothing, her expression as calm as ever. Rain's comment had already drawn a few curious looks from the other patrons, but the atmosphere quickly returned to its usual tranquility. Only Miyoi remained tense, her mind spinning as she tried to maintain her composure under the weight of Rain's presence.

Rain tapped her fingers impatiently on the wooden table, her gaze fixed on Marisa, who was leaning over the bar counter, clearly enjoying herself a bit too much. The sight of her half-drunk friend chatting with the bartender made Rain sigh deeply. She leaned forward and called out, her voice cutting through the low hum of conversation.

"Marisa, hurry it up already! Reimu's gonna be fuming if we get back too late," she said, her tone exasperated but laced with familiarity.

Marisa turned her head, a slight flush coloring her cheeks. She grinned lazily. "Oh, come on, Rain, take it easy. We're just having some fun, daze," she slurred slightly, raising her cup in a mock toast.

Meanwhile, behind the counter, Miyoi's mind was racing. Her initial panic at Rain's appearance had somewhat subsided, but the sight of the Legendary Yokai Exterminator sitting calmly at a table did little to ease her nerves. 'She's not doing anything... yet,' Miyoi thought, trying to convince herself. Still, the risk was too high. If Rain discovered the secret of Geidontei's late-night activities, it could spell disaster.

'Maybe I can use my powers to deal with her... but I need her drunk first,' Miyoi mused, stealing another glance at Rain. Her composure faltered slightly when she noticed the white-haired woman's sharp crimson and green eyes briefly locking onto her.

Rain, for her part, was trying to stay focused on leaving as soon as Marisa finished her drink. But Marisa, clearly emboldened by the alcohol, had other ideas.

"What's the matter, Rain? You afraid to relax for once?" Marisa teased, her grin widening mischievously. She swirled her cup and added, "What's the word for it? Oh yeah—chicken. Bawk, bawk!"

Rain's expression darkened. She sat up straighter, her pride pricked by the taunt. "Excuse me? Are you challenging me?" she asked, her voice low and dangerous.

Marisa snickered, leaning on the counter as she egged her on. "Yeah, that's right. I bet you couldn't handle more than one cup."

Rain narrowed her eyes, the competitive streak she usually kept in check rising to the surface. "I could down this whole pub's reserves if I wanted to," she declared, her voice firm.

Alice, who had been quietly observing the situation with growing concern, finally spoke up. "Rain, don't let her bait you. You're not going to prove anything by drinking yourself under the table."

But it was too late. Rain stood abruptly and turned to the counter, her confident stride carrying her to where Miyoi was standing. "Hey, pub girl," Rain called out, her tone sharp yet casual.

Miyoi flinched, caught off guard by the sudden attention. "Y-yes?" she stammered.

"Give me the best sake you've got," Rain demanded, crossing her arms as she leaned slightly on the counter. "Let's see what this place can really offer."

Miyoi blinked, her mind scrambling for a response. On the one hand, this was her chance to nudge Rain toward drunkenness and, by extension, make her more susceptible to her powers. On the other hand, the sheer confidence in Rain's demeanor made her question the wisdom of going along with the request. Still, with a nervous smile, she reached for a bottle from the shelf behind her.

"Coming right up," Miyoi said, her voice steady despite her inner turmoil.

As Miyoi placed the sake bottle and a small porcelain cup in front of Rain, Marisa's mischievous grin wavered. A memory surfaced—Rain, completely drunk, unleashing chaos the last time she'd had one too many. The memory was vivid enough to make Marisa shudder.

"Wait, hold on!" Marisa blurted, waving her hands in a futile attempt to stop what she had started. "Rain, you don't need to prove anything! It's not that big of a deal, daze!"

But Rain, emboldened by her competitive streak and Marisa's earlier taunts, ignored the protest. She picked up the bottle, pouring the clear liquid into the cup with a precision that only heightened her determination. Turning to Marisa, she held up the cup with a smirk.

"You called me a chicken," Rain said, her crimson and green eyes gleaming with defiance. "So watch closely, Marisa."

Before anyone could stop her, Rain tilted her head back and downed the entire cup in one go. Without missing a beat, she slammed the cup onto the counter and reached for the bottle. Her movements were smooth and deliberate as she refilled the cup, repeating the action until the bottle was empty.

Marisa watched in stunned silence, her earlier bravado replaced with dawning dread. "Uh... Rain?" she started, her voice trailing off.

Rain turned to her, a triumphant grin spreading across her face. "See? Easy," she said, setting the empty bottle on the counter with a flourish.

Behind her, Alice let out a sigh, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Great. Just great," she muttered under her breath. "This is going to be a nightmare getting her back to the shrine. And explaining this to Reimu? Even worse."

Miyoi, who had been frozen in place as she watched the display, finally found her voice. "I... didn't expect that," she murmured, still processing what had just happened.

Rain leaned casually against the counter, her demeanor seemingly unaffected—at least for now. "Another," she said with a smirk, ignoring Alice's groan of exasperation.

Marisa, now fully regretting her earlier taunts, could only watch as the night took a turn she hadn't anticipated. "This is going to get messy, isn't it?" she whispered, earning a sharp glare from Alice.

"It already has," Alice muttered, crossing her arms as she prepared for the inevitable chaos.

Miyoi's eyes widened as she watched the bottle drain so quickly, and a little nervousness crept into her expression. She'd seen many patrons drink, but Rain's capacity was something else entirely. It didn't take long for her to realize the inevitable—Rain was starting to show signs of the drunken state she had feared. The carefree laughter, the erratic gestures, and that unmistakable loss of coordination.

"That... that's not free," Miyoi said, almost uncertain, though a little humor crept into her voice.

Alice, who had been anticipating a disaster, sighed heavily. "I'll cover it," she muttered, fishing out the necessary coin from her pouch, clearly resigned to the situation.

But then, a loud, raucous laugh erupted from Rain, who slapped Marisa hard on the back, causing the witch to stagger forward. The mischievous glint in Rain's eyes only intensified as her words slurred together into something barely comprehensible.

"I told you I can handle it... Zehahaha," Rain declared, her words a garbled mess as she grinned wildly, proud of her accomplishment.

Marisa, still trying to compose herself, shot her a scowl. "Not cool, Rain. Seriously!" she huffed, but before she could protest further, Rain's inebriated personality began to take a different turn.

In one fluid motion, Rain cupped Marisa's chin, her fingers soft against the witch's skin as she leaned in, eyes locked onto Marisa with a playful yet intense glint. "I win... What's the prize, hm?" Rain purred, her voice teasing as her flirty side emerged.

The comment was enough to leave Marisa blinking in shock, her face flushing a deep red. "W-What?! That's not—"

Rain's grin widened as she leaned in closer, completely ignoring any attempts Marisa made to distance herself. "Do I get to carry you princess-style like last time?" Rain teased, her voice smooth and sultry. "Oh... I think I have a better plan..."

Her words drifted as she recalled their recent hot spring visit, the memories coming back in flashes. "I think I know where I'm taking you tonight," she continued, her tone dipping into something more mischievous and suggestive.

Marisa's face paled as the implications hung in the air. "No, no, no! You're not serious, Rain!" Marisa sputtered, suddenly more sober than she had been in the last few minutes.

Alice, still half-aware of the situation, was starting to turn as red as a tomato. She couldn't quite process what was going on, but when Rain began getting handsy with Marisa, she snapped. "Enough!" Alice called out, stepping forward and blocking Rain's advances with a firm hand.

But Rain, in her drunken state, didn't relent. Instead, she turned her attention to Alice, her gaze softening as she took in the delicate features of the dollmaker. "Your blue eyes..." she murmured, now genuinely mesmerized by Alice's gaze. "They're so pretty..."

Alice's composure faltered as her face flushed deeply, her mind momentarily overwhelmed by Rain's unexpected compliment. She blinked, torn between trying to stay firm and the softness in Rain's voice. "I—I'm not falling for that, Rain," Alice muttered, but the hint of a blush still colored her cheeks.

"Fine," Alice sighed after a moment, looking defeated. She turned to the counter, paid for the sake, and grabbed Rain's arm with more force than necessary, pulling her along. "Let's go before you get us kicked out."

Marisa, now catching up with what was happening, smirked despite herself. "This is gonna be one heck of a story," she muttered under her breath.

As Alice dragged both Marisa and Rain out of the bar, the door swung shut behind them with a soft jingle. Inside, Miyoi stood frozen, watching them leave. A quiet mutter escaped her lips, one that no one could hear.

"I've already used my power on her…" Miyoi whispered, the realization dawning on her. She shook her head in disbelief. "This is going to be interesting."

As the trio stumbled outside, the air crisp and cool, the chaos from within the pub still echoed in their ears. Rain, stumbling a little and her gait unsteady from the alcohol, laughed loudly and waved her arms around. Marisa was keeping her distance, clearly uncomfortable with the direction things were heading, while Alice kept a firm grip on Rain, trying to steer her in the right direction.

"Rain, come on, let's just get you back—Reimu's going to have a fit..." Alice muttered under her breath, though her voice was tinted with amusement at the situation.

Marisa's eye twitched as Rain hiccuped loudly and swayed to one side, her slurred words spilling out in a drunken mess. "It's all good... let's just enjoy the night... right, Marisa?"

"Yeah, sure," Marisa shot back with a forced grin, "just don't start singing again."

As the trio made their way down the path leading toward Reimu's shrine, they noticed someone up ahead. It wasn't long before Mamizou, in her human disguise, approached them. She wasn't trying to be stealthy—her approach had the air of a casual stroll, almost like she was meeting old friends.

The human disguise Mamizou had chosen was flawless, her tanuki ears and tail hidden beneath her robes. She wore a long, flowing robe and a green leaf-shaped hair clip, her hair cascading down her shoulders. The most noticeable feature was the twinkle in her eyes, almost as if she knew something they didn't, though the rest of her appearance seemed perfectly ordinary. She looked like a friendly, elderly woman out for a late-night walk, which made her even more unsettling.

"Well, well, if it isn't the legendary Rain," Mamizou greeted with a sly smile, her voice friendly but knowing. She chuckled under her breath, squinting her eyes as she noticed Rain's drunken state.

Rain's red eyes, blurry with inebriation, locked onto the woman, though she didn't recognize Mamizou at first. "Uh… who are you?" she slurred, still giggling from her earlier antics. "You look... familiar. Wait… No. I remember you—uh, no I don't."

Mamizou, with her sharp tanuki senses, noticed the confusion in Rain's voice but didn't miss the familiar aura about her. The promise Rain had made not to spill the beans about Gensokyo's entrance was likely still on her mind, but it didn't matter much now, especially not with Rain's current state.

"Well, dear, I'm just someone who knows a thing or two about you," Mamizou said with an amused tone, her eyes glinting mischievously. "But it seems tonight's not the best time for a proper introduction, hmm?"

Alice blinked, recognizing the unmistakable voice of Mamizou and immediately took a protective step toward Rain. "Mamizou," Alice greeted coolly, giving her an almost wary look. "What are you doing here?"

Mamizou shrugged with an easy smile. "Just passing through, Alice dear. Couldn't help but notice this wonderful little party of yours."

Marisa, rolling her eyes, couldn't help but speak up. "Why does this feel like you're causing trouble, Mamizou?" she asked, crossing her arms. She'd dealt with enough of Mamizou's pranks to know the mischievous tanuki well.

Mamizou tilted her head slightly, the mischievous glint in her eyes softening just a bit. "I'm just observing a rather interesting situation... I do enjoy the chaos of it all, you know."

Rain, now leaning on Alice as she swayed, looked between Mamizou and the others, her drunken eyes narrowing. "Chaos... huh? I can do chaos!" She suddenly grinned wide, and with a bit of an unsteady sway, she threw an arm around Mamizou's shoulder, laughing loudly. "We're on the same wavelength!"

Mamizou chuckled, clearly entertained by Rain's drunken antics. "That's the spirit! Though, I'm not sure I'd want to be on the receiving end of your 'chaos,' young one."

As Mamizou observed, she found Rain's unfiltered drunkenness rather amusing—there was something rather unpredictable and free about it. In this state, Rain was an entirely different person from the one Mamizou had encountered before. It made Mamizou wonder just what had happened to this "Legendary Yokai Exterminator" and what her true potential might be, hidden beneath that amnesiac fog.

But now wasn't the time for that. Rain might not remember her, but Mamizou wasn't about to remind her either—at least, not yet. There was something entertaining about watching Alice and Marisa try to wrangle the drunken Rain, and Mamizou had no intention of ruining their fun.

"Well, I'll leave you all to your... adventures for tonight," Mamizou said, her voice light and almost taunting. "But, Rain, do take care of yourself. You might want to... um... sleep off that drink soon." She glanced at Alice and Marisa, who were clearly struggling to manage the situation. "And don't let her get into too much trouble. The night's still young!"

With that, Mamizou gave a knowing wink, and with the swish of her robes, she turned, continuing her way toward Geidontei. But as she walked away, the faintest of smiles lingered on her lips—after all, she knew the real fun was just beginning.

"Interesting night," she murmured to herself as she walked off into the distance, tail twitching ever so slightly, the telltale sign that her disguise had slipped for just a moment.

Forest of Magic

Marisa trudged along the uneven path of the Forest of Magic, clearly exasperated. Rain had devolved into a giggling, incoherent mess, clinging to Alice one moment and then attempting to stumble off into the dark the next. "Rain, ze, could you stop trying to hug every tree we pass? I swear, you're gonna wake something nasty," Marisa grumbled, swatting at an overhanging branch.

Rain giggled, her crimson and green eyes sparkling even in her inebriated haze. "Marisaaaa… don't be so uptight. Trees… deserve love too! Look… this one is big… like… like… your ego!" She broke into a fit of laughter, leaning against a tree for support.

Alice sighed heavily, her face flushed from exertion and annoyance. "Marisa, can't you carry her? She's heavier than she looks!"

Marisa raised an eyebrow. "You serious? Carry her through my forest? Not a chance. Besides, you're the one she's clinging to. Look, I'll light the way; you keep dragging her."

Alice shot her an annoyed look but said nothing, focusing instead on keeping Rain upright. "Rain, could you please behave? We're trying to get you home."

Rain responded with a slurred hum, tilting her head to look at Alice. "You're pretty, Alice... Did I ever tell you that? Like… those porcelain dolls you make. So perfect…"

Alice's face turned bright red, and she looked away. "Focus on walking," she snapped, her voice higher-pitched than usual.

Marisa stifled a laugh, but her amusement quickly faded as the sounds of the forest grew louder around them. The familiar rustling of leaves and distant chirping now seemed more pronounced, as though something—or someone—was watching.

"Let's pick up the pace," Marisa muttered, her grip tightening on her broom. "The last thing we need is some youkai thinking we're easy pickings."

Rain, however, was oblivious to the tension. She suddenly spread her arms wide, spinning in an unsteady circle. "The night is sooooo alive! Look at the stars! I could just… fly!" She staggered forward, nearly tripping over a root, only to be caught by Alice.

"Not tonight you won't," Alice grumbled, dragging her back upright. "Marisa, how much farther?"

"Not far," Marisa said, glancing over her shoulder. "Once we're out of the forest, it's just a straight shot to the shrine."

Rain, still giggling, leaned heavily on Alice, muttering incoherent phrases about stars, sake, and how she could "totally win a fight with the moon." Alice and Marisa exchanged a weary glance but pressed on, the edge of the forest finally coming into view.

Hakurei Shrine

Inside the Hakurei Shrine, Reimu sat near a small brazier, her arms crossed and a frown etched deep into her face. The shrine was quiet except for the occasional crackle of firewood and the rustling of wind against the paper doors. It was already well into the night, and the chill of approaching winter had settled in, making the absence of her guest all the more unsettling.

She had spent the day preparing for winter—repairing parts of the shrine, gathering firewood, and ensuring the donation box was properly secured. Now, her unease grew with each passing hour.

Reimu tapped her foot impatiently. "Where is she?" she muttered to herself, glancing toward the door. Her instincts told her that something was off—not that she expected Rain to stay out of trouble, but this was cutting it close even for her.

She stood, brushing off her sleeves and pacing the room. "It's not like her to just disappear like this... that Marisa, I told her to..." She let the sentence trail off, her mind conjuring all sorts of scenarios, none of them comforting.

The wind picked up outside, carrying the faint sounds of distant voices. Reimu paused, her senses sharpening. She moved to the door, sliding it open just enough to peer outside. The night was clear, the stars sparkling like scattered diamonds, but the chill in the air made her shiver.

With a sigh, she closed the door and returned to the brazier, muttering under her breath. "She better show up soon. If she's dragging Marisa into something again, I'm not letting her hear the end of it."

Reimu was still grumbling to herself by the brazier when a sudden burst of noise broke through the tranquil night. The muffled sounds of laughter, footsteps, and shouting grew louder, approaching the shrine. She froze, her frown deepening.

"What now...?" she muttered, walking toward the door.

The sliding door burst open before she could reach it, and in stumbled Rain, her arms outstretched and a wide, goofy grin plastered across her face. "Reiiimuuuuuuuu~!" she exclaimed, slurring her words as she threw herself at the shrine maiden.

"Wha—?!" Reimu barely had time to react before she was enveloped in a tight, unsteady hug. Rain's alcohol-scented breath hit her like a wave, and Reimu's expression twisted into a mix of shock and annoyance. "You're drunk! What happened?!"

Alice and Marisa appeared in the doorway, both looking thoroughly exasperated. "We, uh… ran into some issues," Marisa said, scratching the back of her head.

"She drank an entire bottle of sake at Geidontei," Alice added with a sigh, stepping inside to help Reimu steady the swaying Rain. "It's been... a night."

Reimu glared at the pair over Rain's shoulder. "You two let her get like this?!"

Marisa raised her hands defensively. "Hey, don't pin this on us, ze! She's the one who took up the challenge. I even tried to stop her—kinda."

Reimu groaned, gently prying herself out of Rain's grasp. "Let's get her settled before she does something even more ridiculous."

The three of them worked together to guide Rain into the main room, where they helped her sit down near the brazier. Rain giggled as she plopped onto the floor, leaning back against a support pillar. "I'm fiiine~," she slurred, her mismatched eyes gleaming in the firelight.

Marisa glanced at the door, noting the late hour. "Welp, I'd love to stay and help more, but I think Alice and I should head out before we get caught in trouble."

Alice, who had been brushing dust off her dress, nodded. "Yes, we've done enough damage for one night. Reimu, make sure she gets some water and sleep."

Reimu gave them both an unimpressed look. "You're leaving me with this mess? Figures."

Marisa laughed nervously, already stepping out the door. "Good luck, ze! You're the best, Reimu!"

Alice gave a small wave before following Marisa out into the night. "We'll make it up to you later, I promise," she said before disappearing into the darkness.

Left alone with Rain, Reimu sighed and crouched next to her guest. Rain had started humming to herself, her fingers tracing patterns on the floor. "You're lucky you're too drunk to feel my wrath," Reimu muttered, grabbing a blanket to drape over her.

Rain blinked up at her, her expression suddenly soft. "Reimu... you're always so nice to me..." she mumbled, her voice trailing off as her head drooped.

Reimu rolled her eyes but couldn't help a small smile. "Yeah, yeah. Just go to sleep already."

As Rain began to snore softly, Reimu sat back with a sigh. "Winter can't come soon enough," she muttered, staring into the flickering brazier.

Geidontei - Late Night

The Geidontei was bustling now, filled with the chatter and laughter of yokai enjoying the late hours. Mamizou leaned casually against the counter, sipping her drink, her human guise relaxed but with her tail twitching in satisfaction. Across from her sat Suika, already on her third jug of sake, her gourd resting at her side. Miyoi flitted about, serving drinks and occasionally joining the conversation.

"Small world, isn't it?" Suika remarked, raising her jug. "Who'd have thought Rain would end up here, of all places?"

Mamizou chuckled, adjusting her glasses. "It's quite the coincidence. I've heard a lot about her—mostly rumors, mind you—but meeting her in person was... enlightening."

Miyoi leaned on the counter, her expression half-amused, half-exasperated. "She's a piece of work. Downed an entire bottle of sake in one go. Had to use my powers on her, you know, to make sure she forgets all about coming here by morning."

Suika let out a hearty laugh. "Rain? Forget? Good luck with that, lass. Even if you gave her the wildest hallucinations, I doubt it'd scare her."

Miyoi pouted. "She can't even handle her sake! She was already wobbling after a few gulps."

Suika raised an eyebrow at that, a hint of surprise flickering across her face. "Really now? That doesn't sound like the Rain I know. Back in the day, she could drink me under the table! And that's saying something."

Mamizou glanced over her glasses, curious. "Is she really as terrifying as the rumors say? You know, 'Legendary Yokai Exterminator' and all that?"

Suika smirked, her eyes glinting with nostalgia. "Terrifying? Only if you're a yokai causing big trouble. Rain doesn't go looking for fights without reason. But if you're on her radar, hoo boy, you'd better be ready. She's not called a legend for nothing."

Miyoi tilted her head. "What made her a legend anyway?"

The oni leaned back, taking another swig before launching into her tale. "Rain's name spread because of the yokai she took down. There was a time I caused a bit of trouble on purpose—wanted to see how strong she was. She didn't disappoint. We had one hell of a brawl."

Mamizou chuckled. "Sounds like you enjoyed yourself."

"Of course I did," Suika said, grinning. "My friend Yuugi feels the same way. Yuugi still talks about how much fun it was fighting Rain back then. Made life on the surface more exciting."

Miyoi frowned, intrigued. "Who else did she face?"

"Oh, plenty," Suika said, ticking off on her fingers. "There was the Nurarihyon—heard about that one, never saw it myself. She exterminated a Jorōgumo too—those spiders are smaller than the Tsuchigumo, but twice as vicious. Then there's the Gashadokuro, and of course, me, Shuten Douji herself!"

"She faced all that?" Miyoi asked, her eyes wide.

"She didn't just face them. She beat them." Suika said proudly. "But something's changed. Back then, she had this... unshakable presence. Now? There's something missing."

Mamizou leaned forward. "You think it's the amnesia?"

"Probably," Suika admitted. "Losing your memories messes with you. Makes you question who you are. Rain's still got her strength, no doubt, but she's not the same Rain I fought back then."

Miyoi shivered slightly. "I just hope she doesn't stumble back here. Or worse, finds out what happens during yokai hours. Reimu's bad enough, but two exterminators? That's more than I can handle."

Mamizou laughed softly, her tail twitching in amusement. "Rain's not so bad—if you're not causing trouble."

"But she's got this... no-nonsense air about her," Miyoi murmured. "When she looked at me earlier, I swear it felt like her gaze was piercing through me. Like she could see right into my soul."

"That's Rain for you," Suika said with a grin. "She's got a way of making even the toughest yokai sweat."

Miyoi sighed, resting her chin in her hand. "Something must've changed. Or maybe it's just sleeping, waiting to come back."

The room lapsed into a momentary silence, the clinking of cups and murmurs of other yokai filling the space. Mamizou smiled knowingly, lifting her glass. "Guess we'll just have to wait and see."

Suika raised her jug in agreement, and the two clinked their drinks together as Miyoi shook her head, muttering about how much trouble Rain was going to be.