Chapter 18
The next night at the Hakurei Shrine, the faint sound of insects filled the air, and the dim light barely illuminated the surroundings.
Kyouya should have gone to bed early since there were plenty of chores to handle the following day, but instead, he found himself "keeping busy" in the corridor.
He claimed to be organizing the offerings, yet he kept wiping the same wooden box repeatedly, his gaze occasionally drifting toward the shrine's main hall. It was as if he was waiting for something but didn't dare put down the meaningless task in his hands.
"Kyouya," a clear, cool voice came from inside the room, followed by the soft sound of a door sliding open. "How long are you planning to linger out there?"
The voice sent a jolt through Kyouya, and he instantly straightened up, his heart pounding with nervousness. It was Reimu calling him.
Normally, Reimu exuded a lazy, carefree attitude and rarely did much besides exorcising spirits and demons.
But in certain key moments, her words carried a kind of authority that was impossible to ignore. Kyouya didn't know why, but his chest felt like it was being tapped by a small hammer, filling him with an inexplicable tension.
"Ah, Reimu… I was just making sure everything is in order for tomorrow's festival, including the shrine's barriers…" He tried to put on a casual smile, but his voice betrayed his stiffness.
"Preparations?" Reimu leaned against the doorframe, her expression showing impatience as she rolled her eyes at his excuse. "Come on, you've already inspected the storage three times today, either counting food supplies or wiping things that don't need wiping. If you keep pretending to be busy, I'm really going to get mad."
Her words were straightforward, leaving Kyouya no room for retreat. He scratched his head awkwardly and let out a soft sigh. "Alright… I'm coming."
Entering Reimu's room, he bowed slightly as a gesture of respect. The room was small and simply furnished, reflecting Reimu's minimalist lifestyle—no unnecessary items cluttered the space.
Moonlight streamed through the sliding paper doors, casting a serene glow inside. Reimu sat behind a low table, pouring herself a cup of tea, but she didn't invite Kyouya to sit. Instead, she simply watched him with a calm gaze that was more piercing than any words.
Feeling uneasy, Kyouya shifted his eyes, unsure what to say. He had no idea about last night's "tea party" or what had transpired. All he knew was that everyone's behavior toward him and the other two had been strange since that morning, and Reimu, in particular, had been uncharacteristically strict, leaving him on edge.
"Sit," Reimu finally spoke, her voice soft yet firm. Kyouya obeyed, sitting cross-legged with his back straight, an unusual display of caution for someone who usually acted carefree.
After a moment of silence, Reimu spoke again. "Kyouya, I have something to say to you." Her tone was as flat as usual. Most of the time, her voice carried little emotion. Only when she spoke sincerely did it waver slightly. But tonight, her voice was steady—too steady—giving off an unsettling air of tension.
"What… is it?" Kyouya swallowed hard.
Reimu narrowed her eyes and pushed her teacup aside, her gaze piercing through him like an arrow. "About what happened yesterday… No, I should say about what happened in the Yomi no Kuni. I know everything."
"What…" Kyouya froze, his body stiffening as his throat tightened. "What do you mean?"
"Don't play dumb." Reimu tapped the table lightly, her tone unwavering. "I know you went to Yomi to save us, that you pulled us out of the jaws of Yamata no Orochi's destruction. You were even willing to sacrifice your very existence. I also know… you hid your powers and your past from us on purpose, all to keep us from being afraid—your memories of Takamagahara, of being a Toushin."
Kyouya's expression grew complex as he lowered his gaze, unable to speak. She knew everything. The trials of Izanami, the darkness of Yomi, his resolute determination at the time, and… the memories that had been deliberately erased.
Seeing his reaction, Reimu's expression softened slightly. She knew Kyouya wasn't good at hiding his feelings, and his silence was proof enough.
"
I…" Kyouya tried to explain but couldn't find the words.
Reimu waved her hand, signaling him not to rush. She took a deep breath before continuing. "Kyouya, you're such an idiot. A complete idiot."
"Uh…" The sudden remark left Kyouya dumbfounded.
"You've endured so much pain without telling anyone. You've carried so many scars, quietly bearing them alone," she said in a tone that was still calm but carried a warmth that felt like gentle reproach. "And you thought that cooking delicious meals and acting silly would keep us blissfully ignorant forever? I haven't even started holding you accountable for what happened in Yomi!"
Kyouya's fingers trembled slightly as he lowered his head, unable to meet her gaze. He hadn't expected the memories of Yomi to surface, nor had he expected Reimu to confront him so calmly.
"What exactly did you all see?" he asked in a low voice, his tone tinged with guilt.
"That's not important," Reimu replied, her voice calm but filled with authority. "What matters is why you kept it from us. Why did you decide, on your own, to sacrifice yourselves to bring us back to life? A decision that big, and you didn't even ask us?"
Kyouya was silent for a few seconds before speaking in a low voice. "Because… you all mean more to us than anything else. At that time, you were bound by Yomi's curse, unable to speak or express your thoughts. And we… we just wanted to protect you, no matter the cost."
Reimu was stunned, her brows furrowing slightly. "So you just decided? Without even asking us, you were ready to erase yourselves completely?"
youya lifted his head, his gaze filled with sincerity and seriousness. "Yes, because all of you are everything to us. You might not understand, but your existence is far more important than ourselves, more than all of Gensokyo, even more than the entire world."
As he finished speaking, he noticed a glimmer in Reimu's eyes that moved him deeply. Unsure of how to respond further, he forced a faint smile and added, "Because... I just want to make things a bit easier for all of you. This is your shrine, Reimu. You should live carefree here. I don't want you to think about those dark times."
Reimu snorted lightly. "Carefree? What kind of excuse is that? I'm not a baby who needs to be pampered. And besides, did you never consider how we would feel after learning the truth? How angry? How heartbroken?" Her voice trembled slightly toward the end, hinting at the depth of her feelings.
Kyouya was momentarily speechless, lowering his head in silence. He had imagined countless scenarios—how they might react upon learning the truth. Fear? Anger? Even distancing themselves? But he had never anticipated this expression—both furious and pained, a mix of scolding and concern.
"Actually," Reimu said after a moment of silence, her tone suddenly much softer, "the reason I called you here tonight is to clear things up. Things between us can no longer go back to the way they were—just a landlord and tenant relationship at this shrine."
"What do you mean?" Kyouya's heartbeat quickened. He sensed that what she was about to say was significant.
Reimu took a deep breath, briefly averting her gaze so he wouldn't notice the faint redness at the tips of her ears. "...I like you."
Those words hung in the air, making it feel as though time had stopped. Kyouya almost thought he had misheard.
"What?" His throat felt dry, and his voice trembled.
Reimu, slightly annoyed, pursed her lips. "I mean, my feelings for you are no longer just that of a partner or friend. I don't want to see you carrying all that darkness alone, and I don't want you to keep pretending to be clueless. I want you to face us—face me—properly."
"But..." Kyouya's mind was a chaotic mess as a surge of disbelief, joy, and emotion washed over him. "I... I'm just a Toushin with a Chūnibyō. There's nothing worth liking about me."
Reimu rolled her eyes but then smiled faintly, her gaze tinged with a hint of teasing. "You're an idiot, but I don't hate that about you. It's because of that foolishness that you feel real to me. You're willing to sacrifice for us, to give everything without asking for anything in return... That kind of stubbornness is exactly why I can't help but be drawn to you."
Kyouya opened his mouth to speak, but words failed him. A faint shimmer of light appeared in his eyes. It was the glimmer of joyful tears forming.
Memories of countless years of loneliness, pain no one understood, and the beautiful times he had experienced in Gensokyo flashed through his mind—especially the times spent with Reimu. Her teasing, her coldness, her lazy complaints, her impatient orders... It had never been distance but another form of closeness.
Reimu, noticing the redness in his eyes, became flustered. "Hey, don't cry! I wasn't trying to say anything hurtful..." Her tone was harsh, but her gaze was as gentle as a spring of water.
Kyouya sniffled, his face breaking into an awkward smile. "I... I'm not crying. I'm just... just really happy and touched..." He stammered, afraid of ruining the atmosphere.
Reimu turned her face away, her ears burning red. "Alright, I've said what I needed to say. From now on, don't hide anything from us anymore. And stop focusing only on what others need—we'll think about you too."
Kyouya nodded gently. "Yeah, I understand."
The two exchanged a long glance. Reimu turned her face away and spoke in a deliberately flat tone, "That's all. Go back to bed. There's still work to do tomorrow."
It sounded like she was dismissing him, but her expression was unusually soft. Kyouya slowly stood and walked toward the door. Just as he was about to step outside, he turned back to look at her, his gaze filled with deep warmth and gratitude. "Reimu, you're more important to me than anything else."
Reimu froze, her face turning bright red. She quickly turned her back to him, her tone tinged with flustered irritation. "Idiot! Just go to sleep already!"
The door slid shut gently. Reimu sat in her room, her heart pounding like a drum, but her lips curled into a faint smile. That night, she and that foolish Toushin finally shared their feelings.
The night breeze rustled softly, and the shrine was enveloped in silence. Moments ago, Reimu had mustered her courage to confess the feelings she had long hidden in her heart.
Though she had been nervous, a sense of relief now washed over her—because she had finally said it. Kyouya had stood dumbfounded before her, barely able to respond, when suddenly, an unusual energy ripple disrupted the air.
"Reimu, since you're done speaking, it's my turn now." A gentle yet commanding voice echoed from the corner of the room.
Reimu turned sharply to see a familiar violet gap quietly opening. Yukari peered out, fanning herself with a coy smile, her expression full of mischief and inscrutability.
"Yukari!" Reimu frowned, her voice laced with irritation. "Were you eavesdropping?"
"Hehe, don't put it like that. I wasn't eavesdropping—I just 'happened' to stop by for a look," Yukari replied with a soft sigh before shifting her gaze to Kyouya. Her tone carried a hint of amusement. "Kyouya, come over here. I have something to say to you."
Before Kyouya could react, Yukari extended a delicate hand from her gap and effortlessly pulled him through. His mouth opened, as if to plead for Reimu's help, but he only managed a sheepish smile. "Uh... Reimu, I..."
"Hey, Yukari! Hold on!" Reimu quickly stepped forward, but with a wave of Yukari's hand, the gap snapped shut, whisking Kyouya and Yukari away and leaving the shrine maiden with a look of confusion and irritation.
The room, lit by flickering candlelight, fell silent. Reimu stomped her foot in frustration, her brows furrowed. "Damn it, Yukari. What's the meaning of taking Kyouya away now? He hasn't even answered me yet!"
Alone in the room, Reimu's emotions were complicated. She had just confessed her feelings, yet she hadn't gotten Kyouya's response before Yukari appeared out of nowhere and dragged him into her gap.
"Yukari... You better not be up to anything weird!" Reimu muttered through gritted teeth, her face still flushed. She wasn't worried about Kyouya's safety—Yukari would never harm him—but she knew Yukari's personality all too well.
That cunning youkai sage undoubtedly had something she wanted to say to Kyouya in private.
The pale moonlight streamed through the paper doors, falling onto the wooden floor of the shrine.
Reimu bit her lower lip, sitting back at the low table. She stared blankly at the spot where Kyouya had just stood, her heart filled with doubt, frustration, and a faint trace of anticipation.
"You'd better come back soon, idiot," she muttered, the unease in her heart transforming into a longing for Kyouya to return to her side as quickly as possible.
The Hakurei Shrine remained quiet in the deep of the night, with only Reimu's heartbeat echoing in the silent space, as she waited for those two, who had suddenly disappeared, to return.
Within the Gap
Kyouya blinked, taking in the familiar scenery of the gap world. Yukari sat elegantly in a wicker chair that had somehow appeared, with a tea table before her, holding a teapot and two delicate teacups. Her folding fan swayed lightly, a faint, enigmatic smile lingering on her lips.
"My dear youkai sage, you brought me here so late at night—what is this? A late-night tea session?" Kyouya scratched the back of his head, a slightly goofy, trademark smile crossing his face.
Yukari raised an eyebrow, her smile deepening with a hint of playfulness. "Tea is a given, but that's not the main focus tonight." She gracefully poured Kyouya a cup of tea, her movements elegant and unhurried. "Sit down, Kyouya. I have something to say to you."
Kyouya cautiously took a seat, accepting the tea. He frowned slightly as he glanced at the liquid in the cup, then looked up at Yukari. "You're acting all mysterious—don't tell me Reimu's words earlier made you sentimental too?"
Yukari froze for a brief moment before bursting into laughter, folding her fan over her mouth as she chuckled with amusement. "Oh my, Kyouya, your brain finally seems to be working a little."
Kyouya blinked in confusion, his tone full of innocence. "Working? What do you mean? Reimu's words were pretty normal, weren't they? She just expressed her… uh, feelings and… bonds or something like that."
Yukari's smile froze for an instant, replaced by a look of mild exasperation and undeniable tenderness. She slowly set her fan aside and spoke with a rare seriousness. "Kyouya, are you truly clueless, or are you just pretending?"
Kyouya tilted his head, still puzzled. "Clueless about what? Yukari, what are you trying to say?"
Yukari sighed lightly, pushing her teacup aside as she leaned forward slightly, her gaze locking onto Kyouya's eyes. "Kyouya, you're always thinking about protecting us, putting each of us above everything else in your life. But have you ever considered that you hold a place in our hearts too?"
Kyouya froze, his expression filled with confusion. "A place in your hearts? Isn't that obvious? We're… um… friends, important partners. Of course, we care about each other."
Yukari shook her head gently, a hint of soft warmth in her voice. "It's more than that, Kyouya. Your past, your choices, your sacrifices—they mean far more to me than you realize. Kyouya, you are irreplaceable in my heart."
Kyouya opened his mouth slightly, as though to respond, but found himself unable to speak. Lowering his head, he stared at the tea in his hands, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "Yukari, I don't quite understand what you mean. I'm just… uh, an ordinary tsukumogami, right? At most, a former Toushin from Takamagahara. What's so irreplaceable about that?"
Yukari chuckled softly, her gaze filled with a rare tenderness.
She gently placed her hand over Kyouya's, her voice both gentle and firm. "You may be a so-called 'ordinary' tsukumogami, but to me, you are the most important person in my heart. You take on all the responsibility, never letting us share the burden. You even consider your sacrifices as something natural. But Kyouya, you also need someone to protect you. Your heart deserves care too. And I… I want to be that person."
Kyouya looked up, his eyes full of doubt. "Yukari, are you saying… you want to protect me? But isn't it my job to protect all of you?"
Yukari shook her head gently, a warm smile gracing her lips. "Protection goes both ways, Kyouya. You don't have to carry everything on your own. You deserve to be loved, to be protected."
Kyouya was silent for a long time before nodding slightly, a faint, self-deprecating smile appearing on his face. "Yukari, with everything you're saying… I don't even know how to respond. But… I'll remember your words, your feelings."
Yukari's gaze softened further, a flicker of satisfaction in her eyes. She raised her teacup gently, her tone light and playful. "Well, that's enough for now. Tonight's tea session ends here. Remember, Kyouya—you're not alone."
The gap returned to its usual calm, with Yukari's gaze still warm, while Kyouya's heart held a newfound sense of warmth and contemplation.
Though he might not fully grasp Yukari's words yet, he could feel that her emotions were deeper and more genuine than anything he had ever known.
The familiar purple glow of the gap world surrounded them, the distorted environment making it hard to distinguish directions. However, to Ran and Chen, this sight was nothing unusual.
At the moment, they stood behind Yukari, observing her clearly good mood with surprise.
Yukari gently swayed her folding fan, a satisfied smile playing on her lips as she hummed an unknown tune, casually tidying the items in the gap. The relaxed and cheerful atmosphere left both Ran and Chen somewhat astonished.
"Yukari-Sama, you seem to be in a particularly good mood," Ran stepped forward, her tone steady as always but tinged with curiosity.
Yukari smiled lightly, closing her fan before glancing at Ran. Her voice carried an unmistakable hint of joy. "Oh? Is it that obvious?"
Chen blinked and leaned closer to Ran, lowering her voice as she asked, "Kyouya-san was just here, right? Did Yukari-Sama talk about something special with him?"
Yukari didn't answer directly. Instead, she gently raised her hand, and a few purple petals drifted from the gap. She chuckled softly and said, "Why, are you two so curious about my conversation with Kyouya?"
Ran frowned slightly, concern in her tone. "Yukari-Sama, Kyouya-san just left… Did you put any pressure on him again?"
"Pressure?" Yukari raised an eyebrow and shook her head gently. "Ran, you really don't understand me. I simply had a heartfelt chat with Kyouya, sharing some of my own thoughts."
Chen couldn't help but interject, "Then why are you so happy? Yukari-Sama, I've never seen you look so… so satisfied!"
Yukari chuckled, her voice carrying a playful tone. "Chen, you're quite straightforward, aren't you? But yes, I'm very happy."
Ran's frown deepened slightly, her tone probing. "Then… Yukari-Sama, what exactly did you talk about with Kyouya-san?"
Yukari brushed her long hair with an air of mystery before turning toward the other side of the gap, her tone leisurely. "Just a few truths from my heart. You know, when you keep things bottled up for too long, saying them out loud can be quite liberating."
Chen tilted her head curiously and asked, "Truths? What kind of truths?"
Yukari paused her movements, glanced down at Chen, and smiled softly. Her voice carried a faint tenderness as she replied, "I told him that he is irreplaceable to me."
Chen's eyes widened in shock. "Yukari-Sama, did you really say that?!"
Ran, on the other hand, lowered her gaze slightly, her tone tinged with a bit of sentiment. "It seems Yukari-Sama has truly made up her mind…"
Yukari nodded lightly, her voice carrying an unusual seriousness. "Yes, when you understand your own feelings, it's not right to keep delaying. I just hope Kyouya realizes that he doesn't need to bear everything alone, because… he has us."
Chen turned to Ran, her face filled with excitement. "Ran-Sama, did you hear that? Yukari-Sama actually said those things to Kyouya!"
Ran nodded faintly, her gaze holding a hint of respect. "Yukari-Sama's honesty this time is certainly surprising. But… it's for the best. At least Kyouya-san can feel her sincerity."
Yukari smiled slightly, unfolding her fan again to cover half her face. With a lighthearted tone, she said, "Alright, alright, no more questions. Tomorrow, I have something even more important to do."
Chen tilted her head in confusion. "Something more important? What is it?"
Yukari waved her hand lightly, opening a gap, her tone playful. "It's a secret!"
With that, she elegantly stepped into the gap, leaving Chen with a bewildered expression and Ran deep in thought.
"Yukari-Sama is so hard to figure out…" Chen muttered, looking up at Ran. "What do you think she's going to do?"
Ran thought for a moment, then shook her head slightly. "Whatever it is, it probably has something to do with Kyouya-san." Her voice carried a faint trace of envy. "Perhaps Yukari-Sama has truly found a long-lost sense of belonging in her heart."
The atmosphere within the gap returned to calm, but Yukari's rare satisfaction and joy left a profound impression on both Ran and Chen.
Hakurei Shrine, Late at Night
Kyouya stepped out of the gap and back into the shrine's courtyard, the moonlight casting a serene glow on him. As he prepared to return to his room to rest, a familiar voice stopped him.
"Hmph, you seemed to be having a great time chatting with Yukari, didn't you?" Reimu's voice came from the end of the corridor, laced with a distinct tone of dissatisfaction. She stood leaning against the doorframe, arms crossed, her red shrine maiden outfit fluttering slightly under the moonlight.
Kyouya froze, turning to face her with a sheepish smile. "Reimu? You're still awake?"
"I can't sleep!" Reimu snapped, striding toward him, her gaze locking onto his. "So, tell me—what did Yukari just say to you?"
Kyouya scratched the back of his head nervously, letting out an awkward laugh. "Uh… she just wanted to chat about some recent stuff and… uh… invited me for some tea."
"Tea?" Reimu raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying his dismissive answer. "How long did you chat? And did she say anything weird to you?"
Kyouya felt a bit cornered, laughing dryly. "No, no, it was just a normal conversation, nothing special…"
Reimu squinted at him, her tone growing more accusatory. "A normal conversation? Yukari doesn't do 'normal conversations.' Do you think I don't know what she's like?"
Kyouya raised his hands as if surrendering. "Alright, alright! I admit, she did say some things that were a bit… unique, but it was just her personal feelings, that's all…"
"Feelings?" Reimu's eyes sharpened, her tone tinged with a faint jealousy. "What did she say? That you're her 'everything'? Or that she wants to be your 'pillar of support'?"
Kyouya froze, thinking, How does she know that?! But he quickly realized his reaction might give him away, so he laughed awkwardly. "Uh… Reimu, don't overthink it. Yukari was just talking offhandedly…"
Reimu snorted, her tone carrying a note of defiance. "Talking offhandedly? Kyouya, are you really this dense, or are you just pretending? Someone like her doesn't say things like that casually."
Kyouya was left speechless, lowering his head in resignation as he mumbled, "I don't even know how to respond… But, Reimu, you should know—no matter what Yukari says, you're just as important to me as anyone else."
Reimu blinked, momentarily stunned. Her cheeks flushed slightly before she let out a loud cough to mask her inner turmoil. "W-who cares about how important I am to you?! I'm just worried you'll let her lead you around by the nose!"
Kyouya couldn't help but chuckle at her flustered expression. "Reimu, you're not acting like yourself right now."
"What's so funny?!" Reimu growled, kicking lightly at Kyouya's ankle—not with much force, just a symbolic gesture.
"Hurry up and get to bed! Tomorrow morning, you're cooking breakfast, and don't forget—three meals a day plus afternoon tea for a whole month! Not a single meal can be missed!"
"Alright, alright, I'll get to it." Kyouya laughed as he walked toward his room, thinking to himself how particularly adorable Reimu had been just now.
Reimu stayed where she was, watching his retreating figure. She let out a soft sigh and muttered under her breath, "Idiot…"
Reimu lay in bed, unable to fall asleep. She rolled over, staring at the moonlight streaming through the window. Her mind replayed the words she had said to Kyouya earlier, as well as his expression after Yukari had whisked him away.
"That idiot… does he even understand?" she mumbled, frowning slightly as a strange sense of irritation welled up inside her.
Just as she was lost in her thoughts, soft footsteps echoed outside her door, followed by two gentle knocks.
"Who is it? This late at night?" Reimu sat up with a frown, her tone carrying a hint of impatience.
The door slid open slightly, and two familiar faces peeked inside—Aunn and Clownpiece, their expressions mischievous.
"Reimu-san, you can't sleep, can you?" Aunn asked with a mischievous grin, her hands behind her back, looking as innocent as ever.
"What are you two doing here in the middle of the night instead of sleeping?" Reimu frowned but still let them into the room.
Clownpiece quietly shut the door, walked over to Reimu, and sat down beside her. Leaning in close, she whispered, "Actually... we overheard what you said to Kyouya tonight."
Reimu froze, her expression stiff for a few seconds before her eyes widened in shock. "You were eavesdropping?!"
"It wasn't eavesdropping!" Aunn quickly waved her hands, looking innocent as she explained. "We just happened to pass by... and heard a few things!" She gestured with her hands, trying to ease Reimu's anger.
Clownpiece couldn't help but laugh, her tone playful. "Reimu, there's no need to get so worked up. The things you said to Kyouya tonight were unusually honest, you know."
Reimu's face turned bright red, and she stammered, "I-I wasn't… I just thought there were some things he should know. That's… that's perfectly normal!"
Aunn covered her mouth to stifle a laugh, her eyes full of teasing. "Really? But it didn't seem like it was 'just something you thought you should say.'"
Reimu glared at her, grabbed a pillow, and hurled it in her direction. "Are you two looking for trouble?"
Clownpiece dodged the pillow with ease, laughing as she said, "Don't be mad, Reimu! We're actually here to help you."
Reimu paused, her expression skeptical as she let out a cold snort. "Help me? What could you possibly help with?"
Aunn leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a whisper. "We can tell you what Kyouya thinks about you."
Reimu flinched slightly at the words but quickly turned her head away, muttering softly, "I don't need to know…"
Clownpiece wagged her finger, her tone sly. "Oh, really? Then why can't you sleep? We saw you waiting in the courtyard for quite a while earlier."
"...That's only because Yukari took him away, and I was worried!" Reimu retorted defensively, but the blush on her cheeks betrayed her true feelings.
Aunn and Clownpiece exchanged a knowing glance, then leaned in together and said in unison, "Reimu, you really like Kyouya, don't you?"
"I—" Reimu started to argue, but the words caught in her throat. She bit her lip, speaking softly, "Just mind your own business… you don't know anything…"
Clownpiece gently patted her shoulder, smiling. "Don't worry, Reimu. We just don't want you to have any regrets."
Aunn nodded, her tone becoming more sincere. "That's right. Kyouya really cares about you. We can all see it. So, give him some time to respond to your feelings, okay?"
Reimu was silent for a moment before finally taking a deep breath. She looked at the two of them, nodded, and said, "I understand. Thank you... but this time, act like you didn't hear anything, or I won't let you off!"
Aunn and Clownpiece saluted in unison, grinning. "Yes, ma'am, Reimu!"
Watching the two of them bounce away, Reimu let out a small sigh and lay back down on her bed. Strangely, the little interruption had calmed her nerves.
As she closed her eyes, an image of Kyouya's goofy smile popped into her mind, and she couldn't help but smile gently.
"Idiot... you'd better figure out how I feel soon. And don't let Yukari win." She turned over, her lips curling into a slight smirk.
The Next Night at Hakurei Shrine
Reimu sat on the tatami floor, the flickering candlelight casting soft shadows on the table. She opened a letter Kyouya had left behind. A few simple sentences were enough to make her brows furrow deeper and deeper.
The letter read:
Reimu, I've gone to the Bamboo Forest of the Lost. Mokou said she wanted to talk to me about something. There's a late-night meal on the table—make sure you eat, don't go hungry. I'll be back tomorrow to make breakfast.
—Kyouya
Reimu placed the letter back on the table, her gaze shifting to the meal he'd prepared—a simple yet meticulously crafted bento, carefully packed in a small box with a cup of warm tea beside it.
This was typical of Kyouya. Even when leaving the shrine, he never forgot to take care of her daily needs.
"What an idiot…" Reimu mumbled, her tone full of complaints, but her hands unconsciously tightened around the letter. A mix of emotions welled up inside her—frustration, helplessness, and an unspoken sense of disappointment.
She knew that Kyouya and Mokou shared a strong bond, forged through their shared experiences. She also knew that Kyouya treated everyone with the same care and sincerity, a reflection of his nature as both a tsukumogami and a Toushin. But it was precisely because of this that she felt a pang of discomfort—why did he have to head out to the Bamboo Forest so late at night to talk to Mokou?
Letting out a sigh, Reimu picked up her chopsticks and absently grabbed a piece of food from the bento. Just as she was about to take a bite, she froze. Her mind involuntarily replayed the words she had said to Kyouya the night before and everything that had happened after Yukari had whisked him away into the gap.
"Could it be… Mokou also has something she wants to say to him?" The thought crossed Reimu's mind, making her frown even more deeply.
She put down her chopsticks and looked out at the night sky through the window, her mind filled with the image of Kyouya's awkward yet reliable face.
"Kyouya… you idiot, do you even realize that to each of us, you're already so much more than just a regular friend?" Reimu muttered, her tone tinged with frustration, yet laced with an undeniable sense of care.
Glancing at the late-night meal on the table, she eventually gave in, picking up her chopsticks again. While eating, she muttered softly, "Fine, I'll take this meal for now. But when you're back tomorrow, don't think you can just brush things off so easily!"
As the night deepened, the candlelight flickered softly, casting a gentler expression on Reimu's face than usual. Although she still felt a tinge of irritation, she understood that Kyouya would eventually return—to the Hakurei Shrine, which had become a shared home for all of them.
Late Night at the Bamboo Forest of the Lost: Mokou's Home
The night in the Bamboo Forest of the Lost was quiet and mysterious, with a gentle breeze rustling the bamboo leaves, creating a soft, whispering sound.
Inside Mokou's small house, candlelight flickered, and a simple wooden table held a steaming bowl of bamboo shoot soup. Kyouya stood beside the table, smiling as he handed the bowl to Mokou.
"Drink it while it's hot," he said in a warm tone, then glanced around the room thoughtfully. "By the way, Keine isn't here? I thought she'd be with you."
Taking the soup, Mokou lowered her head to sip it. The rising steam carried a light, fresh aroma, warming her from the inside out. She looked up and replied casually, "Keine's been busy with stuff in the village, so she didn't come over tonight. But you—you came all the way to the bamboo forest this late. Aren't you afraid of getting lost?"
Kyouya shrugged and chuckled. "You called me here—how could I not come? Besides, with you around, there's no way I could get lost in the Bamboo Forest."
Mokou let out a soft laugh, setting down the bowl. Her tone grew a bit more serious. "Kyouya, I didn't call you here just to have you make soup."
Kyouya raised an eyebrow, sitting down across from her. Crossing his arms and resting his chin on his hands, he maintained a relaxed tone. "Oh? Then what's it about? Don't tell me you want to discuss training techniques or something."
Mokou shot him a glance, a flicker of complex emotion crossing her eyes, and her voice dropped slightly. "It's not about training, and it's not small talk... I just have some things I need to say to you."
Kyouya blinked, adjusting his posture and growing more serious. "Alright, I'm listening. What do you want to say?"
Mokou was silent for a moment, as if organizing her thoughts. Finally, she took a deep breath, locking eyes with Kyouya, her tone carrying a hint of barely perceptible tension. "Kyouya, do you realize how important you are to us?"
The sudden question caught Kyouya off guard. He frowned slightly, his tone hesitant. "Important? Of course, I know. You're the people I want to protect. Without you, my life would have no meaning."
Mokou shook her head, her voice growing more urgent. "Not that kind of important. What I mean is that your presence—your existence—is more significant to me, to all of us, than you can even imagine."
Kyouya fell silent. He wasn't clueless about what Mokou meant; he just hadn't considered that his feelings would be met with such direct acknowledgment.
Lowering her head, Mokou clenched her fists, a faint bitter smile playing on her lips. "Do you know? Back in the Yomi, when you rejected Izanami's offer and chose to bring all of us back… I couldn't help but think, you idiot—did you ever stop to consider yourself?"
Kyouya's voice was low but firm as he replied, "I didn't need to think about myself, because all of you are more important to me than anything else."
Mokou raised her head, her gaze filled with both sorrow and reproach. "And that's the problem, Kyouya. You've sacrificed too much for us—risked your very life. But have you ever thought about how we feel? We don't want to lose you either."
Kyouya's body stiffened slightly, as though her words had struck a tender spot deep within him.
Mokou stood and walked to the window, gazing out at the bamboo forest. Her tone was somber. "To us, you're not just a protector or a friend. You're the most important person in our lives. Do you know? If back then, you had chosen to leave any one of us behind in Yomi, we would have rather stayed there together."
Kyouya's throat tightened, and his gaze was filled with shock and emotion. He stood up and walked to stand behind her, his voice low. "Mokou, you…"
Turning around, Mokou looked straight into his eyes, her tone filled with an undeniable intensity. "Kyouya, you're the most important person to me. That's why I won't allow you to take such risks for us anymore. And I won't let you keep putting yourself last. Do you understand?"
Kyouya remained silent, his lips trembling slightly before he finally nodded. His voice carried a mix of emotion and guilt. "I'm sorry, Mokou… I always thought my responsibility was to protect all of you. But you're right—I should learn to let you protect me too."
Mokou's expression softened slightly, and a small smile tugged at her lips. "That's more like it. Now, go drink your soup before it gets cold. I wouldn't want your amazing cooking to go to waste."
Looking at her smile, a warm sense of gratitude filled Kyouya's heart. He realized he wasn't alone—he had people around him who were willing to support him, and this bond was his most precious treasure.
"Alright, I'll drink the soup," Kyouya said with a nod, a small smile curling his lips. "But Mokou, next time you want to say something like this, don't make me come to the Bamboo Forest in the middle of the night."
"Idiot!" Mokou laughed, playfully swinging her fist toward him, her tone carrying a faint hint of bashfulness. "You came here willingly—don't go blaming me!"
Morning in the Bamboo Forest of the Lost
The misty morning in the Bamboo Forest of the Lost was tranquil and serene. Dewdrops clung to the bamboo leaves, and the occasional breeze sent a soft rustling sound through the forest. In the peaceful morning, Keine was sorting through a pile of scrolls, pondering the recent lessons she planned to teach.
However, Mokou, sitting nearby and sipping on a bowl of bamboo shoot soup, caught her attention.
Keine stole a glance at Mokou, silently wondering to herself: What's with her lately? Mokou, who usually had a calm and indifferent demeanor, had been smiling more often these past few days. Sometimes, she'd even hum a little tune. This was far from her usual behavior.
"Mokou," Keine finally spoke up, her tone carrying a hint of curiosity. "Did something good happen recently?"
Mokou blinked, looking up at Keine with a slightly unnatural expression. "Something good? What are you talking about?"
Keine smiled slightly, her gaze turning inquisitive. "You seem to be in a much better mood than usual lately. Did I misread you?"
Mokou quickly lowered her head, pretending to casually sip her soup, but the tips of her ears turned a faint shade of red. "It's nothing. It's just… well, the weather's been nice lately, so I guess I'm in a better mood."
Keine set down her scrolls, her tone turning playful. "Oh, really? Just the weather? But yesterday, when you went to see Kyouya, I couldn't help but notice you came back with a smile on your face."
Mokou froze, her movements stiffening as the spoon in her hand nearly fell into the bowl. She hurriedly tried to cover it up. "You're imagining things! I wasn't smiling!"
"Imagining things?" Keine chuckled softly, her voice warm but teasing. "Then why are your ears so red right now?"
Mokou's eyes widened as she quickly covered her ears with her hands, trying to hide her embarrassment. But the more she tried to cover it up, the more unnatural she appeared. She muttered under her breath, "Keine, stop jumping to conclusions. I just… I just had a normal conversation with Kyouya, that's all."
Keine's smile grew more meaningful. "A normal conversation? But you've never been this cheerful just from having a 'normal conversation' with someone before. Mokou, could it be that you have… special feelings for Kyouya?"
Mokou's head shot up, her face bright red as she stammered, "I… I don't! Don't say such things!"
Seeing her flustered reaction, Keine had already come to her conclusion, but she didn't press further. Instead, she spoke gently. "Mokou, there's no need to deny it so quickly. If you do have feelings for him, there's nothing wrong with that. At least with me, you don't have to hold back."
Mokou lowered her head, biting her lip. She stayed silent for a moment before finally murmuring softly, "...I don't know. I just feel… at peace when I'm with him. Even though that guy's a bit of an idiot, he always makes you want to trust him…"
Hearing this, Keine's expression softened, her eyes filled with a hint of relief. She nodded gently, her tone sincere. "Mokou, that feeling… it's what people call 'liking' someone."
The blush on Mokou's face deepened. She gritted her teeth and muttered, "...I don't know what 'liking' is. I just… want to talk to him more, see him more… that's all."
Keine chuckled softly and reached out to pat Mokou's shoulder, her voice filled with warm encouragement. "No matter what you call it, it's good to see you in a better mood. If you get the chance, share your thoughts with Kyouya. He might care about you more than you think."
Mokou nodded softly, murmuring an acknowledgment. She didn't say anything more, but her gaze unconsciously drifted toward the window, as if she were waiting for something.
Sitting nearby, Keine quietly observed her friend, who had become shy and reserved because of her emotions. A sense of sentiment filled her heart. Perhaps, this time, Kyouya had truly become the anchor Mokou needed to find peace in her heart.
Scarlet Devil Mansion, Late Night
Moonlight filtered through the Gothic windows, slanting into the mistress of the Scarlet Devil Mansion's bedroom.
The shadows on the carpet danced faintly with the flickering candlelight. Remilia Scarlet sat poised in her chair, her crimson eyes glimmering deeply in the dim light. Behind her, her large bat wings gently expanded and contracted with each soft breath.
Outside the room, Kyouya pushed the door open, his usual goofy smile on his face. His gaze swept over the room, filled with books and bottles of fine red wine, before landing on its mistress. In a lighthearted tone, he teased:
"My queen, calling me here so late at night—do you have some major announcement to make?"
Remilia set down the wine glass in her hand and gracefully turned her head, her crimson eyes locking onto him. She raised an eyebrow, her tone laced with pride and disdain. "A major announcement? Kyouya, do you really think I need any particular reason to summon you here?"
Kyouya scratched the back of his head, his tone tinged with helplessness. "No, no, of course not. Her Majesty's commands must always be obeyed. It's just… don't you think it's a bit of a waste of my time making late-night snacks to have me run over here instead?"
Remilia let out a cold snort, her tone exuding self-importance. "Kyouya, my orders are far more important than your trivial snacks."
Kyouya shrugged, a wry smile curling his lips. "Alright, alright. I'm listening. So, what's this about?"
Remilia rose gracefully from her seat, walking over to the window. With her back to Kyouya, she gazed into the misty moonlight outside. Her voice turned low and contemplative. "Kyouya, what kind of person do you think I am?"
Kyouya blinked, clearly not expecting such a question. Tilting his head slightly, he answered with a hint of confusion in his voice, "You? You're the mistress of the Scarlet Devil Mansion, a vampire, the ever-impressive Remilia Scarlet. But… you can be a little bit spoiled sometimes, I guess?"
Remilia turned back to him, her crimson eyes flickering with a barely perceptible wave of emotion. She sighed softly and walked toward him, standing in front of him and looking down at him with a touch of discontent in her tone. "You really are a clueless fool."
"Clueless?" Kyouya scratched his head again, still wearing an innocent expression. "Did I say something wrong?"
Remilia shook her head, her gaze carrying a mix of emotions. She sat down across from him, her hands resting on her lap. Her voice, unusually calm, carried a weight it didn't usually have. "Kyouya, have you ever thought about just how important you are to me? To all of us?"
Caught off guard by her tone, Kyouya hesitated before responding tentatively. "I just… want to protect you all. Isn't that my responsibility?"
Remilia let out another cold snort, her crimson eyes flashing with faint irritation. "You're as foolish as ever. Do you really think your only role to us is as a protector?"
Kyouya froze for a moment, frowning slightly. "Then what else could it be?"
Remilia stood abruptly, her voice now tinged with suppressed emotion. "To me, you're not just a protector. I once believed I was an exalted being, above the need to rely on anyone. But when we were in the Underworld of Yomi, and you rejected Izanami's offer, insisting on bringing each of us back, I realized… I could rely on someone. And that someone was you."
Kyouya looked up at her, his heart stirred by a nameless emotion as he gazed into her crimson eyes. In a low voice, he asked, "Remilia, are you saying…?"
Remilia leaned forward slightly, lowering herself to meet his eyes directly. Her crimson gaze bore into his as she spoke, her voice low but full of conviction. "Kyouya, you're the only one who's made me willing to break free from my solitude. You're the only one who makes me feel at peace. Your existence means more to me than the Scarlet Devil Mansion, this world, or even myself."
Kyouya's heart skipped a beat, and the teacup in his hand nearly slipped. He pressed his lips together, his voice faltering slightly. "But… I'm just… an 'ordinary' tsukumogami."
Remilia straightened up, a mix of exasperation and affection in her tone. "There you go, pretending to be ordinary again! Honestly… what matters to me is that you've shown me hope and made me believe I'm not alone. My feelings for you won't change."
Kyouya was silent for a moment before murmuring, "Remilia… aren't you afraid of my power? Or… wary of my past?"
Remilia chuckled softly, her tone carrying a touch of scorn. "Afraid? I'm the queen of vampires—what do I have to fear? What I fear more is you pushing us away again, taking all the responsibility on yourself."
She reached out, gently placing a hand on his shoulder, her voice soft. "Remember this, Kyouya: you don't have to bear everything alone. We'll face it all together."
Kyouya looked up at her, warmth flooding his heart as he met her crimson gaze. A faint smile appeared on his lips as he said softly, "Thank you, Remilia… I'll remember your words."
Remilia lightly patted his shoulder, a satisfied smile tugging at her lips. "Good. Just don't make me wait too long."
Kyouya nodded, turning to leave the room. Remilia stood in the flickering candlelight, watching his retreating figure, her crimson eyes glimmering with a hidden tenderness.
The night at the Scarlet Devil Mansion remained tranquil, but within Remilia's heart, there was a newfound sense of peace.
After Kyouya's Departure
Remilia let out a soft sigh, settling back into her ornate chair. She picked up her wine glass, taking a small sip, her crimson eyes reflecting a faintly complex light.
Just then, the door creaked open slightly, and Sakuya quietly entered, carrying a freshly brewed pot of tea. A subtle, knowing smile played on her lips.
"My lady," Sakuya said as she gently placed the teapot on the table, her tone carrying a trace of playful teasing. "Did Kyouya-san just visit?"
Remilia raised an eyebrow, turning her gaze toward Sakuya. Her tone was calm and indifferent. "What of it? Do you have something to say?"
Sakuya chuckled softly, bowing slightly, her tone laced with subtle amusement. "Of course not. I merely found it intriguing that my lady, who rarely stays up this late, specifically called for Kyouya-san. Surely, it wasn't just for a casual chat, was it?"
Remilia narrowed her eyes, a faint smile tugging at her lips, her tone ambiguous:"Sakuya, don't you think you're being a bit too talkative?"
Sakuya maintained her smile, her curiosity undeterred. "My lady, I'm merely concerned. After all, Kyouya-san is not someone one can easily ignore. Especially for you, my lady, he seems… rather special, doesn't he?"
Setting down her wine glass, Remilia folded her hands gracefully on her lap and raised her chin in a display of elegance. Her gaze, sharp as a blade, swept over Sakuya. Her tone was calm, but carried a trace of provocation.
"Sakuya, that's an interesting suggestion. Do you think that I, the proud mistress of the Scarlet Devil Mansion, would be so easily influenced by a mere tsukumogami?"
Sakuya's lips curved into a faint smile, her tone tinged with playful amusement.
"Influenced? My lady, your tone just now didn't quite sound like someone who hasn't been affected."
Remilia let out a huff, taking a sip from her wine glass to mask the faint blush creeping onto her face. Her tone, still laced with a hint of pride, remained steady.
"Even if he is important to me, so what? I am the mistress of the Scarlet Devil Mansion, and he is someone I chose as my subject… That is my prerogative, is it not?"
Sakuya chuckled softly, lowering her head slightly. Her tone was gentle, yet carried a subtle edge of mischief.
"Of course, my lady. However, perhaps it would be wise to elevate Kyouya-san's position in your heart just a little above that of a subject. It might make him feel more secure."
Remilia's crimson eyes widened ever so slightly before she let out a dismissive snort."Hmph, do you think he cares about that? That fool probably hasn't even figured out his place in our hearts yet."
Sakuya bowed slightly, her tone affectionate and teasing."That will depend on how you guide him, my lady. After all, Kyouya-san… he cares deeply for you as well."
Remilia didn't respond immediately. Instead, she quietly set her wine glass down, her gaze briefly wandering. After a moment, she raised her head, her tone regaining its usual confidence and pride.
"Sakuya, you're talking too much. Leave the tea and take your leave."
Sakuya, picking up on the subtle awkwardness in Remilia's tone, smiled even more warmly.
"As you wish, my lady. I hope you rest well tonight… or perhaps, continue reflecting on your earlier conversation with Kyouya-san."
Remilia shot her a glare but didn't say anything further. Instead, she reclined gracefully against her chair, watching as Sakuya, her smile full of meaning, exited the room.
Once the room fell silent again, Remilia's gaze fell to the teacup on the table. Her crimson eyes flickered with a complex mix of emotions.
"That idiot, Kyouya…" she murmured softly, her tone carrying a faint, almost imperceptible tenderness."Don't you dare let my feelings go to waste."
Youkai Mountain, Late Night
The night wind gently swept across Youkai Mountain, leaving the forest quiet and still. Only the occasional chirping of nightingales broke the serene silence. In Aya Shameimaru's room, a small lamp cast a warm yellow glow.
The desk was cluttered with manuscripts and unsorted photos, creating a slightly messy but strangely comforting atmosphere.
Kyouya sat at the desk, holding a cup of hot tea in his hands. His gaze wandered around the room before landing on Aya. Flashing his usual laid-back smile, he teased, "Miss Reporter, calling me here so late—is it because you want me to join you in chasing some exclusive scoop?"
Aya paused her writing and looked up, a mischievous glint in her red eyes. "Kyouya, you have quite the imagination. But I have my principles, you know. A late-night interview? I wouldn't involve you in something like that so casually."
"Oh?" Kyouya chuckled, his tone playful. "Then what's the reason? Or is it one of your unusual schemes again?"
Aya set down her pen and gently pushed the manuscripts on the desk to the side. Her tone grew a bit more serious. "Actually, this time, it has nothing to do with news or work. I just wanted to talk to you about something personal—things I can't usually bring myself to say."
Kyouya blinked, sitting up a little straighter. Even with his low emotional awareness, he could sense the unusual weight in her tone. "Something personal?" he asked softly, his voice tinged with curiosity.
Aya walked to the window, gazing out at the tranquil forest. The moonlight outlined her figure, making her appear soft and beautiful. With her back to Kyouya, she spoke in a rare, serious tone: "Kyouya, I'm a reporter—a witness to countless stories. But this time, I've found myself becoming the protagonist of one."
Kyouya frowned slightly, his voice low. "What do you mean?"
Aya turned to face him, her crimson eyes locking onto his. Her voice carried an unusual mix of frankness and gentleness. "Kyouya, you always put each of us first, even going so far as to hide your own pain. But have you ever thought about how important you are to us—to me? You're irreplaceable."
Kyouya froze, confusion evident in his expression. He swallowed hard, trying to respond, but no words came out.
Aya smiled softly, her tone growing even gentler. "At first, I just thought you were interesting—someone who could give me material for my articles. But over time, I realized you were much more than that. Your resilience, your kindness, your willingness to protect others… I couldn't ignore those things. And now, I can't let them go, either."
Kyouya stared down at the tea in his hands, his fingers tapping lightly against the cup as if trying to process her words. In a low voice, he said, "Aya… I never thought you felt this way."
Aya stepped closer to him, bending down so her gaze met his. Her tone carried a rare determination. "Kyouya, I know your personality. You probably think you care about all of us equally. But I have to ask—don't you have someone in your heart who's… a little more special?"
Kyouya was stunned, his mouth opening slightly, but he couldn't find the words to answer.
Seeing his silence, Aya sighed softly but didn't push him further. The quiet between them was broken only by the soft whisper of the night wind.
"Kyouya, I don't need your answer now." Aya straightened up, her eyes filled with a mixture of resolve and warmth. "But I want you to know that my feelings for you aren't the same as they are for anyone else."
Kyouya took a deep breath, lifting his head to look at her. His voice carried a note of gratitude. "Aya, thank you… thank you for telling me this. I'll remember it, and I'll cherish your feelings."
Aya's lips curved into a slight smile, a glint of playfulness returning to her crimson eyes. "Good. Then I can rest easy. But, Kyouya, if I ever catch you trying to shoulder everything alone again, I won't let you off so easily."
Kyouya chuckled, setting the teacup down. "Got it, Miss Reporter. I'll keep your 'warning' in mind."
Aya raised an eyebrow with a playful smirk. "Good. Now you can leave. I've got a special report to finish tomorrow, so don't keep me up too late."
Kyouya stood, waving a hand as he turned to the door. "Alright, I'll leave you to it. Don't stay up too late yourself. Goodnight, Aya."
Leaning against the desk, Aya watched his figure disappear behind the door, her smile softening as it lingered on her lips. She murmured to herself, her tone carrying a hint of bashfulness and satisfaction, "Kyouya… you really are a hopeless fool, but that just makes you all the more impossible not to like."
Hakurei Shrine, Dawn
Reimu stood on the shrine's veranda, gazing out at the mist-covered courtyard. In her hand, she tightly gripped a letter she had overheard Aya mention.
Her expression was subtle—her brow slightly furrowed, yet the corners of her mouth twitched as if caught between a smirk and a grimace.
"So… Yukari, Remilia, Mokou, and now Aya… they've all confessed to that idiot?" Reimu muttered, her tone laced with complex emotions.
She had long suspected that the others had feelings for Kyouya, something she had sensed during that late-night tea party at the Scarlet Devil Mansion.
But suspecting was one thing; knowing that they had already confessed was a completely different matter.
The morning breeze gently swept across the Hakurei Shrine, carrying the scent of dew and freshly brewed miso soup.
In the kitchen, Kyouya hummed an off-key tune as he prepared breakfast, a familiar goofy smile plastered across his face. He was completely oblivious to the storm brewing in Reimu's heart as she stood at the doorway, watching him.
"Morning, Reimu!" Kyouya greeted cheerfully as he looked up and saw her. His tone was light and relaxed, as always. "I made your favorite—miso soup and pancakes. Come and eat!"
Reimu stood frozen at the door, staring at his face—the face she both loved and hated for its obliviousness.
Her emotions swirled within her, a strange mix of irritation and affection.
Clenching her fists, she walked over and sat down, trying to keep her voice steady as she tested the waters."Kyouya, you seem pretty busy these days, don't you?"
Kyouya paused for a moment as he ladled soup into a bowl, then smiled. "Not really. You know, people have been coming to me to talk about their worries lately. I wouldn't call it troublesome; I guess it's a sign of trust, right?"
Reimu's eyebrow twitched. She fought to keep her expression calm, though a hint of frustration seeped into her voice. "Trust, huh… So, what exactly have you been talking to them about?"
Still focused on plating the food, Kyouya answered casually, "Oh, nothing special. Mokou talked about feeling a little uncertain about the future, Remilia complained about her stress, and Aya discussed her upcoming interviews… just things like that."
"Just things like that?" Reimu scoffed, crossing her arms as a sharp edge crept into her tone. "You sure are an open book with everyone, huh?"
Kyouya finally picked up on the unusual tone in her voice and turned to face her, his expression full of confusion. "Reimu, what's wrong? You sound a little… off. Did you not sleep well last night?"
Reimu glared at him, her frustration reaching its boiling point. After a moment of tense silence, she slammed her hand on the table, her voice tinged with annoyance and exasperation.
"You idiot! Do you even realize how popular you've become lately?!"
Kyouya blinked, completely taken aback by the outburst. "Popular? Me?"
"Yes, you!" Reimu gritted her teeth, glaring at him. "Yukari, Remilia, Mokou, Aya… They've all confessed to you! How can you not notice?!"
Kyouya froze, his expression going blank as the soup ladle nearly slipped from his hand. His wide-eyed gaze locked onto Reimu as he stammered, "They… confessed? To me? Are you sure?"
"Of course I'm sure!" Reimu snapped, her voice rising. "Aya even came here to the shrine for an interview, and she ended up spilling the beans about all your 'glorious achievements'!"
Kyouya frowned, scratching his head as he tried to piece things together. "But… I didn't think they said anything special?"
Reimu smacked her forehead in frustration, gritting her teeth. "You're unbelievable! They literally said they liked you, and you still think it's just 'ordinary heart-to-heart talk'?"
Kyouya rubbed the back of his head, an apologetic smile spreading across his face. "Uh… so that's what they meant? I thought they were just being friendly and trusting…"
"Trusting, my foot!" Reimu snapped, picking up her chopsticks and tapping them against the table in irritation. "How much denser can you get?!"
Kyouya's face flushed red as he fumbled for a response, quickly attempting to steer the conversation away. "Uh, well… Reimu, what about you? What do you think about all this?"
Reimu froze at his unexpected question, her cheeks instantly flushing a deep shade of red. She gritted her teeth, trying to mask her embarrassment with indignation. "Me? Unlike them, I'm not going to be so forward! Idiot, just bring over the breakfast already!"
Kyouya couldn't help but chuckle at her flustered expression. He set the soup bowl in front of her, his tone gentle. "Alright, alright. Breakfast is ready. Reimu, you're you—you don't need to compare yourself to anyone else."
Reimu stared down at the bowl of miso soup in front of her, her emotions a tangled mess she couldn't put into words.
She picked up the spoon and took a sip. The flavor was as perfect as always, but the warmth spreading through her chest wasn't just from the soup—it was from the fool standing across from her.
"Idiot," she muttered under her breath, though the corners of her mouth curved upward into a faint smile.
As the morning sunlight streamed through the paper doors of the shrine, Reimu's heart remained restless, yet a subtle warmth had begun to settle there.