A Heart of Will: A Tale in Gensokyo

by Archangel Writes

It was any other day in Gensokyo, the land of fantasy. That is until a mysterious child appeared, falling from a great height and injuring themself. Reimu, the Maiden of the Hakurei Shrine, took the child in to heal them. Frisk, now part of this new world, seeks to explore it. Both don't know that this appearance will lead to an upheaval of Gensokyo's powers.

11. A Heart of Will: A Paradigm Shift

A: Hey, hey, welcome back! Got another large chapter for ya. Let's get into it.

---

In the middle of the night, there was a shrine in the light of the full moon. A small form slept restlessly as they shifted and shuffled without end. Originally vague and indistinct, their dreams were washed with different sights, feelings, and emotions. Their heart beats in their chest as they repeated old memories.

*Thump*

A large monster towered over the child, and despite the size difference, she had a massive, jagged cut across her abdomen. The child feels shock, shame, guilt, and sadness as they tense the knife within their grip. "Be good, won't you? My… Child." The goat monster stated, and she then turned into dust. Her soul shattered into pieces.

*Thump*

A skull lay on the snow, smiling up with encouragement as his body joined the white powder. "BUT S-STILL! I BELIEVE IN YOU! YOU CAN DO A LITTLE BETTER, EVEN IF YOU DON'T THINK SO!" The skeleton reassured, even when the child had taken his life. The child stared as their eyes became blurry.

*Thump*

A warrior in armor was split in two, but refused to give in. "If you get past me, you'll… You'll destroy them all, won't you?" A grim resolve forms on her face as the child watches with morbid curiosity. The child feels sickened by the memory playing out.

*Thump!*

A grand hall leads to a silhouette. An eye socket full of animosity stares into the child's soul. "you can't understand how this feels. knowing that one day, without any warning… it's all going to be reset." The child doesn't respond to his judgment as they continue to fight to the death. But the child only wanted their happy ending. No matter what they do, they will always be back at that bed of flowers.

*THUMP!*

"You idiot. You haven't learned a thing!" A flower stated as its crooked smile melted into a rictus grin; it laughed as it absorbed six souls to become a god. The child went through hell as they died repeatedly. They strike down the flower as it smiles widely with vindication.

"I knew you had it in you!"

A red heart beats in the middle of the abyss. There is nothing else at the end. The child will always be back here. Reset, after Reset, after Reset, after Reset, after Reset, after Reset, after…

*THUMP!*

---

*You awaken with a jolt in the middle of the night. You look around to see that you are in the bedroom and not on a patch of golden flowers. Quickly, you turn and shove your head into a pillow to scream. The pillow muted your shout so as not to wake anyone else up.

*After your muffled yell, you slowly raise your head to gaze at the shrine maiden sleeping in the same bed as you. Reimu was snoring soundly on her side, facing away from you as her breath rose and fell in a steady rhythm. You thank whatever god out there that Reimu is a heavy sleeper. You slowly lift the cover and slip out to exit the bedroom.

*You walk into the small kitchen to get a cup of water. After you collect the water to take a drink, you stare into the reflection of what's left in the cup.

*It's you…

*You quickly down the rest of the water and place the cup by the sink. You walk out towards the back door and slide it open. You walk out onto the back porch and sit down to take control of your breathing.

*Breathe in, breathe out.

*Your breath fogs in front of you. The midnight air has become frigid as Autumn slowly hands over the land to Winter. You look up to see a cloudless sky bespeckled with countless stars. In the center was the moon.

*It is the full moon in its perfect spherical glory. The sight takes you away from your previous thoughts as a quiet voice whispers behind you.

"Frisk? Why are you up so late?"

*Aunn's head peers through the doorway, rubbing one of her eyes. The guardian Yokai was supposed to be on night watch and probably fell asleep. Now awoken by your activities, you apologized for waking her up. The girl shook her head and sat beside you.

"You're forgiven. I need to be awake, anyway. You haven't answered my question yet."

*Looking up at the moon, you feel Aunn staring at you expectantly. You say that you woke up from a dream, and not a good one.

"Oh. Did you have a nightmare? Was it about the mansion?"

*You shook your head and continued looking up at the moon. Aunn tilted her head as her brain processed something. You smiled at the cute gesture, which reminded you of a curious dog. The Komainu concluded her introspection and bumped her fist into her palm.

"I got it! You're thinking about home, aren't you?"

*...You nod at her assessment, and she looks proud of her deduction skills. But that was replaced with a sympathetic smile.

"I'm not good at this 'reassuring' thing. Relative to you, I awoke recently at this shrine. But I had been a statue, watching over this place for a long time. It has been my home for as long as I can remember. I watch over other religious areas because I love doing my job as a guardian, but this Hakurei Shrine will always be home to me."

*Aunn also gazes up at the moon, trying to find words to express her thoughts. You patiently wait for the Yokai as she continues her speech.

"This shrine may not be your home, but it is Reimu's and mine. Until you can go home, this place will always care for you."

*You look over and are reminded of similar words someone else told you.

'Human. I promise you, for as long as you remain here, my wife and I will take care of you…'

*You wipe at your eyes with a sleeve and thank Aunn for her kindness.

"You're welcome! Just, uh, don't tell Reimu that I promised something without her permission. I'm technically a freeloader here. You can pay for my rent."

*You giggle at her words, and Aunn does the same. As she was distracted, you scratched behind her ear, which was comprised of worn stone. Her leg bounced subconsciously, and you paused. Aunn also noticed, and you stared at each other in silence. The moment passed as you and Aunn held in laughter, trying not to ruin this peaceful night. Your ear perked at the sound of a floorboard as a shadow loomed over you.

"So, you find it funny to disturb my slumber? Do you both have any idea how late it is?"

*Aunn looked pale as you turned your head to glance at Reimu, who was standing behind in her nightgown. Her face was blank, but her sleep-deprived eyes glittered under the moonlight. There was not a drop of Mercy in her gaze. When you turned back to Aunn for guidance, the girl was already gone, tucking her tail and running for the trees to save herself from the shrine maiden's wrath.

*You assume that the Komainu made the right choice and got up to run. Unfortunately, you were too slow and got captured by Reimu before you had the chance to flee. You are put into the nook of her arm and held like luggage while your legs kick in the air.

"Guess who is cleaning the rafters for a few days."

*You slump in defeat as you are carried back to the bedroom. Too exhausted to do anything else, Reimu placed you back on the futon and tucked you in. She then goes to her own side and tries to get comfortable again. As you are getting ready to go back to sleep, Reimu turns to stare into your eyes. She speaks in a soft, tired voice.

"I heard some of the conversation. I'm sorry that I couldn't get you across the barrier."

*You shook your head and said it was okay. Reimu's eyelids droop as she continues.

"That's a relief. If there is anything on your mind that you want to talk about, I *yawn* will have an open ear if you need it."

*You quietly consider her offer. It was genuine concern under the surface of a casual suggestion. The mansion has been an intense experience for all sides, and you still don't know how to feel about it yet. Maybe if you open up about your ability to SAVE, there could be some closure.

*But would she be able to understand? There is one way to find out.

[Tell the truth] [Do not]

"Reimu, I…"

*Snore*

*Reimu Hakurei is unable to respond at this time as she is fast asleep. You breathe out in relief as you feel yourself being taken by sleep as well. You shuffle away from the cold and towards Reimu, finding solace in her presence. You fall asleep peacefully as the full moon hangs over the starry night.

---

Somewhere else, another person enjoyed the sight of the moon. A trail of smoke was exhaled as the Yokai sat in the nook of a tree branch. "What a beautiful sight! Time sure goes by when working." Mamizou Futatsuiwa, a Tunuki Yokai, basked in the lunar radiance as she had been busy with many projects lately.

The Bake-Danuki stretched as she glanced down at the gathering of Tunuki conversing with each other and sharing drinks. She smiled at this exchange, as everyone had worked hard this season before winter hit Gensokyo. 'Now, with the full moon, maybe it's time for a vacation?' Mamizou thought as a grin spread across her face. It has been a while since her last trip to the outside world, and with the full moon, it will be easier than ever before to disguise herself when exploring and collecting souvenirs.

Mamizou jumped down from her perch and said, "You know what? I deserve that luxury. But where should I go? Decisions, decisions…" She thought about her choice of destination. Should she go to a major city like Tokyo or cross the sea to revisit Sado? Maybe she should travel farther to see newer sights?

"I'll let the winds take me wherever they blow," the Bake-Danuki stated, letting fate decide her destination. Mamizou started marching in a peculiar direction, changing paths and constantly disguising herself so that she was not tailed by anyone else. This caution is warranted as this is one of her greatest secrets, a personal way in and out of Gensokyo. Only she knows of it, discounting those like Yukari, who watch over the fantastical border. But the Yokai hasn't been stopped yet, and she is feeling adventurous tonight.

'This is the perfect spot. Now, time to get out of here.' Mamizou looked around and found what she was looking for. After a nondescript amount of time, the opening in the border materializes. "Eh? That looks a bit different." The yokai checked her glasses as if they were tricking her into seeing things. She didn't know why, but the opening was a bit strange.

"Oh, well. Everyone has an off day. Outside world, here I come!" Mamizou declared as she moved forward to pass through the Hakurei Barrier. Her thoughts swam through endless possibilities when she made contact with the exit. However, there was one possibility that didn't cross her mind. She instead ran headfirst into it.

*Whump!*

Mamizou slid off the exit as she was stunned by the rejection of her personal tunnel or the head trauma from running into an invisible wall like a bird on a glass window. 'Wh-Whump?' She got up and tried to push through it, to no avail. The Bake-Danuki kicked, pried, and then clawed desperately at the barrier in a futile effort to pass through. "What!? I'm stuck here. ME!? How am I supposed to get out now!?" Mamizou shouted to the heavens, but the stars only twinkled above despite her protest.

---

Reimu interacted with the Hakurei Barrier while reading the instructions. "Okay, try going through it again." The Shrine Maiden looked over to Frisk, and they nodded in response. They walked up to the Torri and tried to push through the barrier. Once again, the gate resisted any attempt to pass through and shoved back the child with equal force.

Frisk looked back at Reimu, shook their head, and shrugged at the failed attempt. The red maiden sighed and dismissed the child. "That is the seventh trial for the day, and still no progress." She clicked her tongue at the lack of headway in figuring out what was wrong with the Hakurei Barrier. The barrier tends to act on its own sometimes, but this is the first time it stubbornly denied someone from passing through, even with intentional gaps. Reimu can't make it any easier to exit, and it still keeps Frisk in Gensokyo. She can't find any reason the barrier would do this unless it has been tampered with.

'Damn it, old hag. What did you even do to the barrier while I was busy?' Reimu thought corrosively and looked through the scroll for what would be the hundredth time by now. Knowing she was not getting anywhere with it, the maiden rolled up the scroll and walked back under the awning of the Hakurei Shrine. Frisk was on a ladder with a towel stick and a cloth covering their mouth and nose. They reach the cleaning implement towards the rafter beams to get any dust that has settled on them. Despite the child's tendency to cause trouble, they are diligent in cleaning.

With no answer to their barrier problem, Reimu says sarcastically, "Well, I don't know what's wrong. Are you the culprit, Frisk? Did you mess with the barrier while I wasn't looking?" The child freezes and looks at Reimu with a cloth-covered face.

Reimu stared back at Frisk and felt a bit awkward. "Relax, it's just a joke," the maiden grumbled. The child's tense posture loosened, and they went back to cleaning. Reimu thought, 'Why did they look at me like that? My joke wasn't that bad, was it? Maybe I need to work on my tone.'

After her self-criticism, Reimu noticed that a few fairies flew in from the forest. "Good morning! Frisk, wanna play?" Sunny got right to business, and the child wanted to join.

"You can play after you're done." Reimu relented, and the child ran off to finish their chores. 'Those fairies are getting too comfortable visiting the shrine.' The maiden felt like she had been lenient with the Three Fairies of Light. After what happened with the kidnapping, she learned that they tried to protect Frisk despite being outmatched by Sakuya.

Sunny, Luna, and Star are now practically glued to Frisk. Reimu can't find the strength in her heart to separate this bond despite undermining her core values of 'never trust a yokai.' They have proved themselves to be very favorable towards the child and will risk their own lives to keep them safe. Reimu watched as the fairies helped Frisk with the chores. Technically, their assistance goes against the kid's punishment, but she didn't stop them. Any cleaning they do would be less work for her. She's not lazy, just energy efficient.

While Reimu tried to convince herself that she wasn't a sloth, a golden-haired witch was approaching over the horizon.

Marisa was flying towards the shrine at a slow pace. After reaching the gate, she took her time walking up the front steps of the Hakurei Shrine. "Mornin' Rei Rei! So, how are the tests going on your side?" Marisa casually spoke, but Reimu stared back with a flustered glare. "Oh. No dice, huh?" Marisa responded, and that made Reimu sigh in deep frustration. "I tried everything, Marisa. Nothing worked! I can't make the barrier accept Frisk, no matter what I change on my end. I'm almost tempted to search all of Gensokyo for a Sage and pull them by the ear."

Marisa nodded at her friend's plight and looked over at the child of the subject. "Yeah, I also ran into a wall when researching this. It's gonna take a while until Frisk can go back home. Speaking of which, I need to talk to you about something important." As Reimu was about to ask what it was, Frisk approached her. "What is it? Are you already done?" Reimu questioned Frisk. They nodded, and the maiden said, "Okay, you can play with the fairies now."

The child rushed off to join their winged companions for a game. As one of the fey flew up to a tree and the others got behind an imaginary line, Reimu and Marisa sat on the steps to watch them while continuing their conversation. "Okay, what do you want to talk about?" The maiden queried, and the mage watched as Frisk moved and stopped when Luna looked behind at the runners. After a few seconds, Marisa states, "Do you recall what happened back at the mansion?"

Reimu clenched her hand and answered, the incident from a week ago still fresh in her mind. "How could I not recall? What the Scarlets did was horrible." Marisa nodded again but waited for her friend to relax before continuing. "Right. It was. There is no denying that. But after what happened, I may have come to a realization."

When Marisa paused again, Reimu shifted her attention away from the game to look at her friend. As they changed from Daruma-san to freeze tag, Marisa decided to continue, saying, "I have realized that as long as Frisk is still here, we need to have some plans when something similar happens again."

Reimu huffed and said, "You think I don't know that? I will be around them until I figure out the barrier. No one would dare lay a finger on them." After her proclamation, Marisa mumbled to herself, "Oh, you are not going to like this."

When Reimu wondered what she meant by that, Marisa spoke. "While admirable, what about the times you are not around them? They need a way to protect themself just in case." The Hakurei Maiden squinted at the sorceress and said, "Wait, don't tell me you're suggesting…"

"Teach Frisk the Spell Card Rules," Marisa said. Reimu was shocked at the suggestion, but that shock quickly subsided and turned to anger. "No," the red maiden responded while she stood up. "I can't begin to describe how stupid that idea is! Have you been dropped on your head?"

Marisa didn't back down as she asked, "Why not? What's so bad about teaching them the rules? They already got caught in a few Danmaku Battles. Why should they not be a participant?" Reimu countered with, "Frisk is not participating. They got forced into those battles, they didn't volunteer to be in one in the first place! They are a normal human child, Marisa."

Crossing her arms, Marisa says, "A normal human child? Reimu, tell me what a 'normal human child' can do. Can a human child wield a spear made of pure magic?" Reimu answers her query, "Remilia can use them, why not anyone else?"

"Okay. Can a normal human put away and pull out objects seamlessly from nowhere?" Marisa threw out another point, and Reimu looked less confident. She mutters, "Maybe it is a bit odd in hindsight…"

"Last one. Can a normal human child, who has been an Outsider no less, dodge hundreds of projectiles and survive back-to-back Danmaku Battles despite their lack of experience and leave the Scarlet Devil Mansion relatively unscathed?" Marisa ended her argument, and Reimu only stared back in silence. Her mind was trying to come up with any plausible retort for this hypothetical scenario. "Maybe… they just got lucky?" the maiden finally responded. The mage looked unconvinced.

Shaking her head, Marisa gestured to the game currently being held in the courtyard. "Look closely at Frisk. Do you see someone who survived due to luck?" Reimu gazed upon the child who was currently evading both Sunny and Star, who were trying to tag them. Frisk fluidly shifts past reaching limbs and distances themself from flying tackles. Despite the disadvantage in numbers and lack of flight, Frisk ran circles around the two fey, who couldn't even catch their clothes. As the two complained about the child being unfair, Luna reminded them that they broke the rules first by teaming up. Frisk didn't look winded or worried as they stood there, as if the relentless attacks were only a slight exercise. Reimu notices that when Frisk dodges, it's natural and fluid. It is as if they entered some sort of zen state. A form of a warrior's Focus.

"Can you see it now? Frisk is NOT normal. You might not have realized it because you keep comparing them to yourself! You barely leave the shrine to see other people, so you don't know what 'normal' is! I lived in the Human Village for half my life and have seen normal children. Hell, I was one of them! Frisk is different. Other children can't do a fraction of what the kid does!" Marisa watched Reimu stare at the resumed game, Frisk made themself get caught by Star.

As the child quietly congratulated the fairy, the maiden felt all the questions she had pushed to the back of her mind start to flood in. All those memories of Frisk's strange quirks showed throughout their stay, in which Reimu assumed it was an 'Outworlder' thing, were placed into the forefront. When they first met, Frisk wasn't bothered by the fact that Yokai existed in Gensokyo. The child pushes themself to the point that an adult would give out. That fearless blank stare while multiple Yokai threatened them. Where did they come from? How can they do the things they do? What did they experience to know how to deal with dangerous situations? 'The human child,' It was an excuse for her own sake. Reimu ignored so many things because she thought they would leave Gensokyo before she could get any answers.

But now they couldn't leave. They are stuck here and are at risk of being attacked because of Reimu's inability to help. Marisa saw Reimu clench her hands tightly. "Are you alright, Reimu?" The maiden didn't respond. Her thoughts drifted to when she first saw Frisk fighting against Cirno.

When she discovered the child was in a Spell Card Duel, she was gripped with fear due to their health and reacted in a way she knew best. She broke up the fight with extreme prejudice, and in that moment of fear, she harmed Frisk. The Hakurei maiden hated herself for it, even when the child forgave them. Who cares if the child was odd to the point of bewilderment? They were still an injured, kindhearted soul that gave her another chance to care for them. She thought she could move on, but then the battles happened again and again. Every time, her outrage got the better of her. Maybe one day, she would get careless, and that kind child would end up like how she found them, bloody and scarred. Or even-

"Hey, Reimu!" Marisa gripped her shoulder. Reimu looked over to her after snapping back to reality. The mage was worried about her friend. The maiden muttered, "I'm sorry. You might be right. Frisk needs to know how to defend themself. I just… can't help but think of them as that helpless child that I took care of."

The mage let go of her shoulder and jokingly said, "They grow up so fast! I helped take care of them, too. I understand. But you need to stop coddling Frisk! How will they grow if you never let them leave the pen? Let me do you a favor. I'll train them, so you won't have to worry about accidentally hurting them, Ze." Reimu looked apprehensive and asked, "Right now?"

"Yes, right now. The earlier, the better!" Marisa exclaimed like it was a dumb question. "It's a good idea to prepare Frisk as soon as possible. Who knows when we will get pulled into another Spell Card Duel? So, are you in?" When Marisa brought up the idea, she still left the choice in Reimu's hands. Jokes about motherhood or not, the Shrine Maiden is still taking care of Frisk.

Reimu thought about it for a minute, and her friend waited patiently. What she said was logical; there was no doubt about that. But a part of her still wanted to deny it. If she were to agree, then it would be an admission of her failings as Frisk's guardian. 'No. It won't be. Frisk needs this. Stop being stubborn and accept her help!' Reimu ground her teeth and then released her answer before she had a chance to change her mind. "Alright. You can train them."

Marisa smiled at Reimu as if she knew her friend would come around to her side eventually. The Hakurei then put up three fingers. "But! There are a few things I will ask of you." The mage rolled her eyes at the sudden stipulation. Reimu continued and put up three rules.

-Frisk will be taught the Spell Card Rules only at the Hakurei Shrine, and Reimu must observe or participate. If the training becomes too intense for Frisk, she will intervene and end the session, regardless of the circumstance.

-There will be no use of Spell Cards. Frisk may be learning the rules, but that is not an excuse to throw them into the deep end. This rule could be eased later if their training is going well. But if anyone tries to throw a Final Spell at them, Reimu will BURY that person.

-The Danmaku must not harm (NO EXCEPTIONS). Any errant bruise or scrape is a wack from Reimu's Gohei. Also, amplifiers, like magic equipment, will not be used. Leave them with Reimu before the training, and they will be returned afterward. The only exception is that the trainer requires a magic tool to make Danmaku and can't do so otherwise.

"That seems a bit much, Rei Rei," Marisa said in exasperation. Reimu stared back with unyielding resolve. "These are fair boundaries to place. Spell Card Rules are not built for human minors to participate. Frisk will be the only one due to their unique circumstance." The maiden watched as the mage grumbled about her being 'too soft' and having a 'bias' towards Frisk. But Reimu didn't relent on these rules. They're there for the child's safety, and she would be sure nothing would harm them under her watch. Knowing that Marisa is in a losing battle, she (begrudgingly) accepts the terms. When Reimu nodded and outstretched her hand. It's not to shake, but to hold onto her friend's Mini-Hakkero. The mage tried to find some leeway. "Can I get a 'Best Friend Pass,' my fair, smart, and beautiful pal, Reimu?"

When a blank stare was the answer to her flattery, the sorceress sighed and took out her prized magic tool. She gingerly placed the Mini-Hakkero in Reimu's hand and said, "There. Are you happy? Now, you have no reason to interfere. Can I go and teach my dutiful student?" The Hakurei Maiden lets Marisa go and watches her as she walks down the steps, calling out to the playful group. "Hey~! It's time for magic practice, Frisk! Get over here."

The child looked over from braiding Star's hair, adding leaves and dandelions to her brunette tresses. Sunny and Luna also decorated Frisk's hair. Instead of braiding, it's more of a bird's nest on top of their head made with many twigs. Two small branches were tied to their head, acting like two deer antlers. Frisk gets up to walk towards their teacher with anticipation. Marisa stared at the kid who supposedly won against two of the most dangerous Yokai in a Danmaku Battle, wondering if a previous version of her would even believe anyone who claimed that this child with a bird's nest and stick antlers was capable of such a feat.

'If it were me from a few weeks ago, she would probably call the person ridiculous and beat some sense into them.' Marisa thought incredulously, but knew the child was capable despite their innocuous demeanor. With some effort, she can foster that potential until Frisk can rely on their own skill in a Spell Card Duel. However, that is far down the road.

A bird lands in Frisk's hair nest, eyeing it as a potential home. She held in a laugh as the kid seemed unaware of the avian critiquing its new real estate. How is she supposed to teach Frisk with a straight face if they are always like this?

…

"To tell you the truth, I kinda lied about teaching you magic today," Marisa admitted as Frisk, who had taken off their decorations, tilted their head in curiosity. Now that she had their full attention, the mage continued her explanation to the more diminutive child. "The reason why I brought you out here is to teach you something else." She gestured around the grass field, slightly damp from the morning dew. They were on the grassland behind the Hakurei Shrine, which led towards a forest trail that, if explored, would lead to a cherry blossom grove. Right now, the grassy meadow is an adequate area to introduce Frisk to what she is about to reveal.

Marisa asked Frisk, "You have seen a Danmaku Battle, right?" It's an understatement, but the child nods in confirmation anyway. "Good! But do you know what the rules are?" The magician queried the kid, but they didn't respond instantly. They rubbed their chin in careful deliberation until they answered.

"Dodge projectiles and win?"

Marisa grinned cheerfully at the innocent response. "Technically, yes. But that's not the whole picture! The rules are much more complicated than that, and I'll teach you them! Surprise! Are you excited?" The mage witnesses Frisk raise their eyebrows in mild shock at the news. Marisa was getting good at predicting the kid's emotional state, an impressive feat due to their closed eyes and flat expression, which was a constant except when they made an effort to display their emotion. The trick is not to read Frisk's face but their body language. They are very similar to Reimu, who had the same problem when she was young.

Marisa reassured them when Frisk bounced on their heels energetically, a sign of anticipation and anxiety. "I see that you're concerned, but don't worry! The rules are not too complex and are pretty intuitive. But you must know them before participating in Danmaku Battles, so listen carefully!"

Reimu sat in a lotus position on the back porch of the shrine, watching over the entire process as Marisa explained the whole process for Danmaku Battles. "When are they going to start battling? They are just standing there!" Sunny complained while kicking her legs that hung from the wooden platform's edge. Luna, more studious than her energetic friend, shushed her and said, "Learning is important! You wouldn't play Shogi without learning the rules, right?"

Sunny snorted and said, "Of course. Who would play Shogi without rules?" Star, who sat beside Luna, giggled and stated, "Didn't you play a game of Shogi against Cirno even though you both never played it before?" The solar fey looked betrayed as the lunar one looked aghast. Luna exclaims, "Sunny, you should have known the rules!" Sunny answered, "I had a general idea of what it is, so it worked out in the end!" Star repeatedly retorted, "You made up rules on the spot, and Cirno fell for it." Luna yelled out in disbelief, "Sunny~! That is not right!" The light fairy ends with, "It's not my fault that Ice-Brain is so gullible!"

As the Three Fairies of Light argued over the rules of a board game, Reimu watched the lesson with undivided attention. Marisa continued with the explanation. "Even though Danmaku is seemingly thrown out in a wide area without thought, there is a purpose to it. During a normal Danmaku Battle, the two opponents have to do their best to get the other opponent hit by their projectiles. While you can throw out a steady barrage of attacks against your opponent, it would be more efficient to use magic to overwhelm them so you can win, right?"

Frisk nodded at that logic, and then Marisa's smile changed to a frown. "Well, if that were the case, then anyone else who can't use powerful magic has no chance of winning a Danmaku Battle. It would be a contest of strength where the most powerful Yokai are at the top." The mage saw the child nod again, clearly enthralled in her natural inclusion of examples and storytelling as a teaching medium. Her smile returned as she stated, "That is where the Spell Card Rules come in. A Spell Card is basic in principle: It is a sanctioned use of magic that has the caster commit to the spell until its duration. It's a way to prevent the abuse of magic so everyone can have a fair fight."

Marisa then went into a pouch at her side and pulled out a slip of paper, presenting it to Frisk. "This is the physical representation of a 'Spell Card.' It has a general description, duration, spell complexity, and more. Anyone can make a Spell Card and get it approved by Reimu if they want to use it."

As the child looked over the slip of paper and knitted their eyebrows together, Marisa remembered that the child couldn't read. So she explained the Spell Card: Light Sign "Earthlight Ray" to them until the child asked a question.

"Why not attack directly? Would that be better?"

Marisa understood their confusion and used it to further hammer in a lesson. "Because that's not the point of a Danmaku Battle. The game is not about dominating your opponent, it's about expressing yourself. Spell Cards are that medium to show off your skills while your competitor evades and retaliates in kind. Think less of a wrestling match and more like a dance contest! Everyone can show off their Danmaku skills without fear of being interrupted. The winner is the one who can show that skill under pressure and be more elegant than their rival."

Frisk looked doubtful but was ruminating on this different perspective. 'They will get used to it in time. Facing the Scarlets as a newbie really skewed their view of Danmaku Battles.' Marisa sighed in vexation but didn't blame the child for not getting it at first. If she had faced someone like Flandre during her childhood, she would have immediately thrown in the towel and run back to the village.

'Yeah, right. I would rather get turned into dust than prove him right.' Marisa thought as her teeth clenched in resentment. She calmed before her disapproval bled into her words. Centering herself, she continued the lesson. "Now, you probably noticed a glaring flaw in using spell cards. Why use spell cards when you can't respond to your opponent's attacks? Luckily, there is a solution to it! It's called Trance. Spell Card Trance is like a limited grace period that allows you to get hit multiple times while you use your spell card. Imagine you have an invisible barrier that absorbs attacks until it shatters; that is the closest representation of Trance. After the opponent breaks the Trance, the Spell Card ends prematurely, and the caster can't use that Spell Card again in that battle."

Marisa got back into a rhythm as she elaborated on using Spell Cards as counters to other Spell Cards, affectionately called "Bombs" or "Room Wipes," as in wiping away Danmaku to clear the battlefield. They are very powerful and are generally used as a panic button during battle. However, they have limited use due to costing so much energy to pull off.

Afterward, her smile widens as the next part of the training begins. "Okay! Now, let's get to the fun part, Ze. Learning about Focus and the Art of Grazing. You have been standing here for a while, so to make it up, you get to take part in this demonstration! Oi, Sunny, you're up!" Marisa called out, and the orange-haired fairy responded, "It's about time!" She flew over to the mage and floated by her side with her arms crossed and a mischievous grin on her face.

Marisa rolled her eyes at the eager fey and explained why she called her. "Sunny's ability is the manipulation of light, so she is the perfect opponent for you due to her choice of Danmaku. Also, she is less challenging than I am as an enemy, Ze."

Sunny yells out, "Rude!" as Marisa asks Frisk. "Are you ready for the lesson?"

The kid nodded but paused. They hold up a hand to wait a bit, and Marisa lets them run back into the shrine. They took a few minutes, but the back door slid open when everyone was curious about why they took so long. When Frisk returned through the sliding door, everyone else figured out why they went inside. "Hahaha! You wanted to look the part? You're always up to something!" Marisa laughed as Frisk walked up to the field in Reimu's old hakama. The shrine maiden puts her hand onto her face in embarrassment and slight amusement. 'Seriously? This brat...' Reimu thought as she watched Frisk get into position on the other end of the field of Sunny, while Marisa stood by the side as a referee and gave clear instructions.

"Grazing is the technique of letting Danmaku get close without hitting you. It may sound simplistic, but it's harder to execute than one thinks. Not only do you purposely let projectiles approach your body, but you have to avoid them at the last moment. That includes projectiles that follow afterward." When Marisa was done explaining, she gave Sunny the go-ahead. The fairy shoots a close barrage of light orbs that fly toward Frisk at a decent speed. As they got closer, the magician noticed that the kid quickly tensed up and moved out of the way.

"Good dodge, but that is not the point of the exercise. Sunny is going to throw another set, and you are only allowed to walk around them slowly. Ready?" Marisa instructed, and Frisk gave a thumbs-up. As Sunny decided to fire out rings of Danmaku, Marisa held her breath as the tightly packed bullets separated, and the rings quickly expanded throughout the battlefield. The child stood still and watched as the orbs headed toward them. When she thought that one of them was going to connect, the kid shifted out of the way of the projectile. Frisk walked around and positioned themself between the paths of the Danmaku. Marisa nodded in approval, knowing the problem was that the child was too hasty to avoid the projectiles. So, reducing their speed made them less likely to move without thinking and accidentally run into another bullet when avoiding the first one.

"Okay, that's enough! Thanks, Sunny, for freely volunteering!" Marisa stated while Sunny flew off, mumbling, "Did she have to emphasize free?" When the fairy left the grass, the sorceress took her place and smiled at Frisk.

"Now we're going to practice Focus. It's the other side of the coin to Trance. It's not something that could be explained easily. It can only be experienced during battle. Just keep on grazing like before, but now I'm your opponent. Prepare yourself!" Marisa declared with enthusiasm, and Frisk nodded earnestly. Reimu's hands gripped her knees in anticipation, waiting for the practice battle to start. 'Calm down. Marisa knows what she is doing.' She shoved down her worry as she instinctively switched her sitting position into something she could spring up from at any moment.

"Ready~?" Marisa said leadingly as she winked. Frisk nods in confirmation. "GO!" Marisa yells as she starts waving her hand, and a barrage of prismatic stars shoots out to fill the arena. The kid did the same as before and narrowly avoided the first wave of attacks. The Magician saw the child had gotten comfortable moving slowly and decided to start turning up the heat. More stars began to accompany the waves, and rogue attacks slipped in between.

Frisk noticed that the Danmaku was increasing, and they switched from moving slowly to sprinting. The child quickly repositioned, slowed down near the projectiles, and oscillated between the two speeds. Marisa narrowed her eyes as she studied Frisk's movement. 'No, that's too fast… and that's too slow as well. They are indecisive on what to do. Come on, Frisk. I know you can do it.'

Marisa continued to apply the pressure as Frisk started to look more concerned. Two magic circles appeared beside the mage and began sweeping the area with more Danmaku. The kid is now moving more erratically as their breathing increases. For a brief moment, Marisa saw them barely avoid two stars that were about to intersect. 'Almost, you are so close! Come on, Frisk, keep going!' The alchemist does what she does best and pushes. To find that limit and keep testing, keep up the pressure, keep up the heat! Keep adding more Danmaku! The waves became more frequent, and more slave spells started to circle the arena, adding more projectiles as Frisk ran around to evade them all. Suddenly, something changed.

Frisk accidentally boxed themself into an unfavorable position as many multi-colored stars flew towards them. When Marisa thought the child would get hit, they centered their breathing. They shifted their stance and approached, weaving around the Danmaku with enough speed for them to miss. They didn't move too slow to get clipped by one of the stars, nor did they move too fast to overshoot and run into them. They have achieved a state of battle awareness. They have entered into Focus.

"Yes! That is what I'm looking for!" Marisa stated with excitement as she continued to test Frisk's Focus. A small red heart appeared on their chest as they moved around the attacks with calculating attention. Moving at the right speed to dance through the stars, the child smiled with jubilation as if they were letting go of their worries and starting to have fun. Marisa felt the child's joy and was taken away by that feeling. This is what a Danmaku Battle is all about. A thrilling sport that she became obsessed with to put her effort into the craft; it was a true expression of one's own identity. Seeing a young soul enjoy the art she had put her life into made her heart burn with extreme passion.

'Keep Going. KEEP GOING!' She also wants to let go. To keep pushing herself. To keep adding more heat! TO ADD MORE DANMAKU!

Black Magic-

'No, Wait! Stop!' Marisa caught herself in time as the spell circle dissipated from her side. In her excitement, she almost slipped into Trance. Why did she try to use a Spell Card? The mage promised Reimu not to do that exact thing, yet her heart demanded to march forward, even if it was against this small child. It was like her soul was set aflame, burning like a furnace to defeat her equal.

But this is just an amateur, and Marisa can't afford to break Reimu's trust for some random fleeting emotion. She reined in her competitive spirit and noticed that Frisk was getting very tired. They move around, but they lag at times. When Frisk finally got hit by a star, Marisa ceased her attacks immediately.

"Alright, that's enough! Let's have a break, Ze!" The Magician exclaimed. Everyone else was silent. Reimu saw Frisk nod and then unceremoniously collapse onto the ground. Her paranoia sent out alarms to aid the child, but her common sense won out in the end. Marisa was true to her word and kept their agreement. The Hakurei Maiden still doesn't know how to feel about Frisk being hounded by the mage as a method to teach them. She almost left her seat when it got intense at some points. Surprisingly, it was effective. The child seemed to have a talent for learning under pressure and, if her eyes didn't deceive her, was enjoying themself despite their hectic situation. They moved past projectiles with the enthusiasm of a fish to water or a bird in flight. It's as if Frisk was in their element in a Danmaku Battle.

'Have I been so wrong of you the entire time? What was your previous life, Frisk?' Reimu thought of the paradoxical nature of the child lying on the grass. If their combat experience is decent, then learning how to do Danmaku Battles would take less time than she thought. However, Frisk still has no practical way to retaliate, nor has the drive to do so. They need to work on that later.

"One step at a time," Reimu muttered as she got up to check on the resting child.

---

*When permitted to have a break, you flop onto the grass and breathe a sigh of relief. It seems like Marisa is giving you the Undyne teaching style today. Fortunately, it ended after getting hit a single time. You felt your chest where the star landed in a puff of cosmic dust, noticing that you barely took any damage, if at all. It was more like a light shove instead of being smacked by a pointed object.

*Footsteps get closer to you, and a head appears in your vision.

"Are you well?"

*Reimu asked you a question while crouching beside you. You smiled reassuringly and gave a thumbs-up. The girl rolls her eyes at your unbothered state and reaches out a hand for you to clasp. You do so, and she lifts you to a standing position. Marisa walked over and was visibly smug.

"I told ya, Rei Rei. You worry too much!"

"I get it, you don't have to rub it in. You can have this back."

*Reimu handed over Marisa's magic device, and she gladly took it. The maiden's shoulders seem to relax, and you're glad as she has been quite stressed lately. Reimu noticed you were staring at her, and she huffed, patting your head.

"What are you smiling about, brat? Don't think this achievement means you can run headfirst into a Danmaku Battle… Good work."

*Reimu scolds you and adds a bit of praise in the end. Staring into her eyes, you can see the depths of worry for you with brief flickers of pride. She still doesn't trust you enough to fight on your own, but this is a step in the right direction. Sunny and her friends joined to talk about your training.

"Good job, Frisk! All of that leaf dodging paid off! You can thank me at any time!"

"Eh? Thank you? That was their skill, not yours!"

"Has anyone else seen what was on Frisk's chest? I think it was a heart."

*Star pointed out something that caught everyone else's attention. The rest of the girls thought back on your sparring session. Marisa agrees with Star's assessment.

"Yeah, I saw it when Frisk went into Focus. It's not unusual for a manifestation to occur during Focus, but I've never seen a heart-shaped center before."

*You explain that the heart was your SOUL. Everyone else looked at you with bewilderment.

"Your SOUL? I mean, the soul is the embodiment of one's own will. Are you sure that's what that heart was?"

"It was so red! Like blood!"

"I think it's red like a cherry! Whatever it was, it's really cute!"

*...You blush at the compliment. The three fairies and Marisa laugh at your reaction. The mage decided to tease you even more.

"Awww! Are ya self-conscious of your SOUL? That's so adorable! No wonder it is shaped like a heart. Ya really love your friends and family, don'tcha?"

"Marisa, stop it. Their face is as red as a tomato."

*The others laughed harder after hearing how Reimu described your absolutely normal face, which is not slowly turning more crimson than the very essence of your being. She shook her head at their immaturity but sported a small smile. Even though you are embarrassed, you laugh along, finding it slightly humorous. Your stomach growls in protest, and Marisa wipes away a tear.

"Seems like your biological clock went off. Let's get some food in ya, Ze."

*The lesson was paused for more practical needs. Reimu informed the group that she planned a grocery run to the village, but Marisa's early training session interrupted the timetable. So you can join Reimu and Marisa for a quick trip to the human village for a meal and sourcing ingredients.

*You eagerly hop on Marisa's broom for a flight across Gensokyo once again. Even after many times, flying through the air still hasn't gotten old. There are so many things to see from up on high. You wonder if you can also fly if you continue your magic studies, and ask Marisa what it takes to do so.

"Flying? Making a spell for basic flight is easy! Almost every magic study leads to flight in one way or another. The reason you don't see a lot of people soaring above the ground is that very few learn magic. You will find your own way if you put enough time into it. But for now, you have to walk everywhere like every other human unless you want me to give you some advanced classes. For a price, of course!"

*You laugh awkwardly as you feel Marisa's mercantile gaze on your back. Reimu floats over to save you from the Magician's avarice.

"Don't try to tempt Frisk with empty promises, Marisa. Frisk, don't give your money away to this chronic liar."

"Eh!? Liar? I wasn't lying about what I said, I can get Frisk to fly! Come on, this is a good deal!"

*You say you will think about it, and the argument was dropped with Marisa grumbling under her breath about debts. It seems like she has some money problems after the Eientei affair, and you pondered if you could assist, like with Reimu. You spent money on dumber things, like the Tem College Fund, and got a set of armor for the trouble. Paying Marisa for extra lessons would be dirt cheap in comparison. When you get off at the front gate, you walk into the village beside Reimu, and Marisa follows behind.

*As you are in the morning hours at the tail end of Autumn, many human villagers are out and about, making last preparations for Winter. The road bustled with traffic as men and women, young and old, went around in more insulated clothing. Reimu muttered about getting charcoal for the kotatsu when you looked around the town curiously. You spot a few young women gossiping as you walk by, catching some of their conversation.

"-Now her younger brother won't listen and wants to go out and fight Yokai! It's insane!"

"Yeah, my little sister said the same thing! It's this week's Bunbunmaru! She's obsessed with that story and won't stop talking about it! I'm getting really concerned that it is spreading among the youth!"

"Shush! Look."

*The two women quieted and glanced over to your group. You get the feeling they were looking directly at you. You continue to walk as you notice more whispers. Taking a look around, you see many villagers openly gawking at you. The stares are a mixture of awe and trepidation. Some stares are disapproving, while very few of the older faces creased into disdainful glares.

*Reimu also noticed the villagers' mixed reactions and was visibly confused. Marisa walked closer to the group, looking concerned.

"(Hey, is it just me or do you also feel like a zoo exhibit?)"

"(Yeah, everyone is acting strange today. What happened in the village?)"

*The answer came in the form of a young voice calling out in the middle of town.

"Catch the Yokai!"

"Don't let them escape! We have to challenge them to a battle!"

"There is one on the stage. Quickly, surround them!"

*Your group halted and looked in the direction of the yelling. Reimu had a face of dread while Marisa ran ahead. The voices were young, and you saw some children approaching an open theater. You and Reimu pick up the pace to see a gathering of the village youth surrounding a taller figure in strange clothing. When you get a closer look at them, you recognize some of the students from the terakoya.

"Oi, Yokai! Either you let us capture you, or I'll challenge you to a Danmaku Battle!"

*A boy was on the stage with two of his buddies, full of naive confidence and endless energy. Compared to them, the girl who wore odd clothes that looked like faces was less enthusiastic at the confrontation. The girl didn't seem to display any emotions at all.

"I decline. I'm busy preparing for my play."

"Then you have to fight in a Danmaku battle!"

"I don't feel like it."

*The child seemed to stumble on his words, not accounting for this type of response. However, he was emboldened by his peers cheering him on. He puffed up and raised a stick (Which was less impressive than yours, of course), declaring to the yokai.

"I will capture you and throw you out of the village! You can't refuse a Danmaku battle!"

"Oh. Is that so? What in the Old Hell are you brats doing!?"

*Marisa walked in and looked imposing. The children stared in shock for a moment, then cheered. The mage was confused at the change of atmosphere. They began to speak.

"The Magician is here! There is a Yokai right there!"

"We get to see an Extermination firsthand!"

"If we watch closely, then we can become Yokai hunters as well!"

*All eyes seemed to be on Marisa and this theater Yokai, who looked around placidly at the stirring audience. The mage was insistently shoved towards the stage by many small hands, no matter how much she tried to tell off the kids. Now, both unwanted combatants are on stage while most of the village youth watch with rapt attention and excited comments. Meanwhile, Reimu was busy looking absolutely horrified by the actions of the children, muttering to herself about the complete disregard of Spell Card Rules and complaining about the absence of parental figures during this moment.

"Why are they acting like this? They can't do Danmaku battles, the rules don't include children. WHAT IS GOING ON!?"

*You see that the adult villagers were standing back from the theater, fearful of the battle about to take place. Some parents and older siblings were not as dissuaded, walking up to their respective children to remove them from the area. A few managed to get pulled away, but the rest stubbornly ignored the prodding to watch the fight up close. There seems to be an invisible divide between the younger and older generations. The SOULS of the adults and elders flicker uncertainly with nervousness and unease, while the children's SOULS burn with Determination and a fighting spirit. When you remember the gossip between the two villagers, you start to get a vague idea of what is happening here.

*Marisa looked around at the gathering audience and then back at the Yokai, wondering how to go about this until her eyes lit up with an idea. She looked over at you, and her smile widened. There was no worry or grim resolve, just a playful grin to reassure her friends. The Magician began working her magic. She tilted her head down to shade her eyes with her hat. Marisa's voice became loud and boisterous so everyone could hear.

"So you're here to cause trouble in the village again, Hata no Kokoro? But I'm here to stop you in your tracks!"

*The mage pointed an accusatory finger, her posture that of a vigilante catching a criminal. Kokoro stood silently, trying to understand what Marisa was talking about.

"Admit it! You gathered the children here to siphon their emotions! Truly, a plan so despicable is fitting for an evil Yokai like yourself!"

*Kokoro looked at Marisa with the expression of a statue. Her gaze wandered over to the audience of wide-eyed children, who looked enthralled by the improvised performance. Then the girl's gaze landed on you and Reimu. The Hakurei Maiden was also confused, not knowing how to respond, but you gave the performer a thumbs up. Kokoro didn't show any change in her expression, but her eyes lingered on you for a second more. Then she turned her attention back towards Marisa, and her posture changed as well.

*The girl had a mask of a monkey with a bewildered appearance hanging off the side of her head. Suddenly, the mask turned ghostly blue and floated off for another to take its place. It is the mask of a fox, its features serious and cunning. She smoothly slid the mask over her face and tilted her head up to look down at the mage.

"Oho. It seems like a lowly human has caught on to my scheme. But you are far too late, for I will feast on the emotions of these helpless children."

"Not if I strike you down here and now! I will banish you from this land so you will never threaten this village again."

"You can certainly try. Come and face your demise, Magician!"

*The two prompt performers prepare for a climactic duel, Marisa forming magic circles while Kokoro brings out two fans in a swirling flare. The two go into a combat drama, with spells, weapons, and even words thrown into this daring dance. The children loved it. Every action and spell, from rainbow stars to glowing masks, was given the proper cheers and jeers from the young audience. There were shouts of surprise and excitement when they took the fight off-stage and into the air above them. You see the adults hanging back, murmuring, and deciding not to interfere. They don't look as fearful as before, but the trepidation never left. Reimu stood more casually, commenting about how Marisa was an unapologetic showboat.

*You enjoy the fight until a glancing blow manages to hit Kokoro, and she flies off-kilter. This gave Marisa the opening, and another attack hit true. Kokoro floats down to the stage and kneels before a victorious Marisa. Before the mage unleashes a finishing blow, Kokoro has her mask turned into one of fear.

"I-I yield! You are the superior of this lowly spirit! Please, spare me!"

*Marisa cleared away her Danmaku and stared long enough for the children to converse with each other over her possible verdict. She speaks again to conclude the fight.

"Very well. For your life to be spared, you must serve the village you have terrorized. You will no longer cause fear, instead, you will give the children joy. You will do your theater and plays so that the village can remember this fight and others like it."

"I… accept your terms. I will make many performances that no one can forget."

*Marisa turns towards the village youth and makes one last statement.

"Let this be a lesson to you all. These Yokai are dangerous and shouldn't be taken lightly. Don't try to fight them because I do. You are far too young."

*The children whispered to each other about her message. One raised their hand and asked something.

"But the Outsider fought against Yokai as well. Are they a child, too?"

*That was when Reimu decided to add her voice to the conversation.

"Yes, Frisk did fight in a Danmaku battle, but they are a special case. Just because they can fight doesn't mean you can as well."

*All of the young villagers turned over to Reimu, and every single one widened their eyes at your presence.

"No way! That's the Outsider!"

"The Child of the Yokai Shrine! They are even wearing shrine attire!"

*A herd of children flowed over to you and Reimu. The maiden looked surprised at the sudden attention on you. Marisa sighed at the shift of notice as you walked out towards the group to keep Reimu from being overwhelmed. The youth bombard you with overlapping questions, but you try to answer to the best of your ability.

"What is it like to be in a Danmaku Battle!?"

*You say it is exciting, but definitely not something that should be taken lightly.

"Should you be scared? Are you not afraid of fighting Yokai?"

*You answered that it can be scary, but you try to end the fight despite that fear.

"I heard that you faced the vampires from that mansion. How did you win?"

*You smile and say that you won by using footwork. You demonstrated by doing a quick backflip (Show-off), and the children were ecstatic at your mobility. As many asked how to become a Yokai hunter at your age and other probing questions about your acquired skills, an irritated voice cut through the riff-raff like a knife through butter.

"Students! What did I tell you about challenging Yokai to battles!?"

"Oh no, it's the demon teacher!"

"Scatter! See you later, Frisk!"

*Many children retreated in different directions as Keine's running form slid to a stop before you and Reimu. The teacher huffed at the children who made a clever maneuver to keep her from capturing multiple of them. She looked over to greet you and apologize.

"Miss Hakurei and Outsider. I deeply apologize for their behavior. I tried to correct their intrepid thoughts, but they wouldn't let go of the idea that they could do Danmaku Battles."

"I see. What came about this?"

"Well…"

*Keine informed you both about the latest Bunbunmaru that went through the town and managed to capture the eyes of the many children in her class. Now they don't take her warnings about the dangers of yokai seriously, and one even tried to dare her into a Danmaku Battle. After a swift punishment of the student, the others never tried her again. Now, most of her class is empty, and the kids are out 'Yokai hunting.'

*Reimu covered her face in shame, knowing who had caused this event. You can practically hear the distant 'ayayaya~' echoing in her mind.

"Of course, it's that stupid newspaper. How has this gotten so intense this quickly? It's just a headline about an incident!"

"That may be true. However, I think the addition of the young outsider might have sparked the imagination of the children."

*After the conversation, the teacher excuses herself to do her part to rectify this rebellious surge within the youth. When she left, Marisa strolled up to Reimu, with Kokoro following behind.

"Looks like ya have your work cut out for ya."

"Oh really? I don't know where to start! How am I supposed to change the minds of the village children when their own teacher can't even do such a feat?"

*You say they could try to do another play. You thought it was awesome. Marisa snorted aloud at your suggestion while Kokoro looked at you with eyes of curiosity.

"You enjoyed the performance?"

*You nod towards the yokai and say she is really talented. If Mettaton were here, he would have adored this girl for her choice of clothing alone. Kokoro looked away and put on her mask as if shying away from the compliment. Underneath her mask, you spot a faint ghost of a smile as she mutters to herself.

"(...Thank you. That makes me glad.)"

*Your group separated from Kokoro as she prepared for her actual routine. You followed behind Reimu as she walked down the road and noticed her face was stern. You guessed that the children chasing after Yokai were bothering her. You tug at Reimu's sleeve to get her attention, and her eyes snap over her shoulder. You say you're sorry for your behavior, as your actions led to this situation. The girl sighed and responded to your self-reproach.

"No. If anyone is to blame, it should be me for letting that crow write whatever she wanted. I swear, I'm going to make yakatori out of Aya's wings if I find her."

"Good luck trying to catch her. But the thought of you chasing a tengu across Gensokyo is hilarious. Looks like we're in the market. What do you want to eat, kid?"

*You pause at Marisa's question, realizing that you haven't thought about which stall you want to visit. You shrug toward both guardians, indicating that you are undecided. Reimu continued looking through the market while responding unhurriedly.

"That's alright. While I decide what we are having for dinner, just point out a food stall you want to eat at."

*You look around as many villagers put up many produce for sale. The prices were a bit steep due to winter preservation, but you know Reimu could afford it due to your many donations to the shrine. You finally find a stall that piques your interest, a booth that hand makes noodles and puts them into a broth that makes your mouth water by the smell that wafts out of the stall. Your stomach protests your idleness, and you come to an easy decision. You looked around to find Reimu, but she was busy looking at the prices of certain vegetables. Even with the extra funding, the shrine maiden is comparing prices for a better deal. 'Always thrifty,' Marisa would say. You decided not to bother her and wait at the booth. You walk up subconsciously and hop onto one of the cushioned stools to wait for an order. As you wonder if a noodle shop is willing to take gold coins as payment, a voice calls to you.

"Welcome! Well, well. If a shrine child visits our humble stall, we are doing something right."

*You look over beside the seating to see a tall woman. She was elaborately dressed in a layered hakama with a leaf-patterned skirt and a plaid scarf. Her long hair had a leaf-shaped pin to hold up bangs from falling over squinting eyes, which had a pair of spectacles over the bridge of her nose. Everything she wears is in warm colors to indicate the fleeting autumn winds, both fashionable and comfortable. It took you a second to order because she looked out of place working for a food stall. You have seen waitresses, and they usually wear practical and unadorned clothing. The lady's smirk grew at your silence. She is aware of your examination, and you quickly ask what she recommends. Not because of the awkwardness, but because you can't read the menu. The lady's smile went from playful to business politeness as she pointed to the menu board.

"I suggest the No. 3 dish with a Gyoza combo. We need to fatten you up so you properly grow into your clothes."

*You look at the number, acting like you can understand what the script meant. You nod, and she walks off to call the cook. You don't have to wait a minute until a plate of crescent dumplings is placed in front of you. That was surprisingly quick. The appetizer was cooked to a golden-brown with a side of dipping sauce. The lady playfully smiles at you again.

"The main dish will be out in a minute. Sorry for the delay."

*You wave off to indicate you're untroubled. You take the wooden chopsticks and pick one of the dumplings. Your handling of the utensil is more practiced than when you started, and you dip the food in the sauce and bring it to your awaiting mouth. You eagerly bit down, and steam rushed up to your face. The sound of the crunch of the doughy skin was like breaking a leaf, and the taste was fibrous like… a leaf.

*You are eating a leaf.

*You cough and spit out the greenery into a napkin, and you grab a cup of water that came with the appetizer to wash away the taste. You look over to the lady, who gives an innocent look back.

"Oh, dear me. You didn't like my recommendation? A shame. I heard that eating leaves is good for your teeth. Go ahead, try another."

*She accentuated her statement with a mischievous grin. You look at her blankly. Did she make a joke? The lady chuckles like a granny when she sees you are unimpressed by her prank.

"You truly are from the shrine to be this humorless. Tell you what, don't worry about the price, and I'll join you for a meal. How's that sound?"

*You looked at her, and she seemed genuine with her apology. You nod flatly and pat the stool beside you. The lady smiles broadly and walks up to the stool. You watch as she slowly sits down on the puffy cushion, and you smile as it makes a loud noise.

*Brrrrraaaaapptt*

*The lady froze as the unflattering sound that announced itself from under her, lowering into a sourful whisper. You keep yourself from laughing as your sleight-of-hand with one of your ITEMS worked. You state to be careful with bar stools; someone might leave their whoopee cushion unattended. The woman looked over to you, and her mouth twitched. You thought she might have gotten upset, but she laughed at your retaliation.

"Oh, you got me good! I take back what I said, you do have a sense of humor!"

*The lady pats your back in good spirits. You get your actual food from another waitress, and you eye the lady as you pick up a gyoza with your chopsticks. She had an amused glint in her eye, but didn't do anything when you popped the morsel in your mouth.

*It's good. You chew contemplatively as you let your guard down to enjoy the meal finally. As you slurped up the ramen, Reimu managed to find you and sighed at your previous absence.

"Frisk, I told you to come back after finding a stall. I know you're hungry, but don't go off alone."

"Ah, there is the real shrine maiden. It's nice for us to meet again, Reimu Hakurei."

*The lady greeted Reimu, but the shrine maiden knit her eyebrows in confusion. She bluntly responded to this unknown woman.

"I'm sorry, but I don't remember you."

"Really? Well, I guess I have to give you a little reminder."

*The woman lifted her hand and brushed the top of her hair. A pair of animal ears appears on her head, and a big, fluffy, ringed tail sways behind her. Reimu looked at the two conspicuous aspects that pointed to something Yokai in origin, but she was still as lost as before.

"A Bake-Danuki? I still don't remember you."

"It's me, Mamizou Futatsuiwa! You brat, don't tell me the isolation spent in the Hakurei Shrine has rotten your brain!"

*You watch as Mamizou looks slightly miffed at being forgotten. It took Reimu a bit for her to recall the Bake-Danuki, but she shook her head and asked a question after taking a seat beside you.

"Why are you here? Are you not worried that the villagers would spot you?"

"Oh? Has your heart truly softened to worry about little ol' me?"

"Hardly."

"Rude. I'm not worried about the villagers. I have helped this town enough for the humans not to be concerned about me. I've created jobs for Yokai as well."

*You see her smile at that last part, which makes you curious. You look around the stall to observe the workers. All of them are Yokai. You could tell by their hidden animal ears and tails of the cooks, and the subtle aura of hospitality from the waitresses. Their white souls also tipped you off, but you don't like to rely on checking outside of battle. It can be tiring if used too much.

*No wonder Mamizou slipped in so casually as a waitress. She must be the stall owner for her to pull that off. The Tanuki Yokai kept speaking as she shrank her ears and hid her tail again.

"As for your first question, I was looking for you. That is, until I came across the child. If I stick by them, I assume you would be around, Hakurei."

*Reimu raised an eyebrow at that statement. She gestured to herself as if questioning if she hadn't heard it correctly.

"Me?"

"Yes. I need your assistance."

"Is it an incident?"

"Not quite… But it requires your expertise."

*You watch as Mamizou looks around to see if anyone else is listening in. After knowing that no one is eavesdropping, she puts her hands together and bows her head in a pleading manner.

"Please, help me get across the barrier."

"...What?"

*Mamizou explains that some of her business endeavors have been successful due to her trips to the outside world to get some items not found in Gensokyo. But there has been a recent snag that bars her from leaving the usual way. Now she asks for Reimu's help in opening the barrier for her. But the shrine maiden has mercilessly shot down her plea.

"When is that my problem? If you want to get past the barrier so much, ask a Sage to help you."

"You don't think I thought of such a solution? It would have been the first person to seek assistance with my problem. But that came with its trials. The Goddess would have asked for servitude, which I don't want. The Oni is in Senkai, doing whatever is important to her. And you already know how elusive that Witch is, Hakurei."

*You lifted a hand, and the two women paused their conversation to look at the small arm between their seats. You asked what a Sage is. Mamizou blinked and then adjusted her glasses while explaining to you.

"A Sage is one of the great arbitrators of Gensokyo. They also maintain the barrier. Or that is what I heard, I didn't get much info on them as they are very rarely seen by the people of Gensokyo. One thing's for sure is each one is very powerful."

*You nod, silently thanking the Yokai for the clarification. Reimu was still unconvinced about helping Mamizou, but the Tunuki had an ace up her sleeve.

"How about a trade? If you let me out, I'll get you anything that you want from the outside world."

*Reimu looked like she was about to turn down Mamizou despite her desperation. You feel like the shrine maiden is being too- wait. Did she say 'anything'?

"Chocolate."

*The Bake-Danuki looks towards you and smiles like a fisherman who got a bite.

"Sure! I can get you chocolate. I can get a box full of chocolates if you want it!"

*You nod vigorously at the promise of a rare sweet not really found here. You stare at Reimu and give her a pleading look. The maiden stared back and huffed at your waiting gaze.

"Just because you stay at the shrine, doesn't mean you make decisions that have to do with it. Is a sweet that important to you?"

*You shook your head, saying that it is not important. But you haven't tasted it in a while, and it would make you very happy. Reimu kept her eyes on you, but you are an expert in this game, so you locked on and never strayed from her brown irises. Inevitably, she relented, and you became the victor.

"Alright, you win. But I know it's not just for sweets, you're not subtle. Marisa was right about your big heart, Frisk. I'm going to finish up with errands, then we will leave for the shrine. Do you want to meet there, Futatsuiwa?"

"That sounds like a plan! Many thanks, Hakurei. I knew that you would be reliable!"

"It's more like I'm getting guilt-tripped by a kid. See you later."

*As you separate from Mamizou, you meet up with Marisa. Reimu tells her about your run-in with the Bake-Danuki, and the mage agrees to at least help her out. However, the mercantile witch says that you should have leverage for something more than chocolate. Obviously, you made the right choice, and she is objectively wrong. Therefore, you ignore her prattle about gaining a 'better deal'.

*Before you head home, your group spots a girl walking in a daze. Reimu notices who this person is and walks up to her. The girl had dark purple hair and eyes and had a flower ornament on the left side of their head. She seemed to be in deep thought as Reimu approached her.

"Hieda-san, are you well?"

"Eh? Oh, good morning, Hakurei-san and Kirisame-san. I am well, thank you. I just started my stroll to get some fresh air. How's your day going?"

*The girl nodded politely, even though the slight dark rings under her eyes told a different story. After the pleasantries had been exchanged, Reimu spoke up about the problem with the village children. Hieda looked concerned and stated her thoughts on the subject.

"I wasn't aware of this. I apologize, but I was so busy with… other matters that I didn't focus on what's happening in the village. I'll work with Kamishirasawa-san to get something put together. Thank you for getting this to my attention."

"It's alright. It is always fun to show off to the little ones! I suggest you try something flashy to keep their eyes on what you want to show."

*The Hieda smiled tiredly and said that she would try, but she said that it would be hard to get their attention due to the Bunbunmaru. She tells your group to have a great afternoon and leaves without acknowledging you. She seemed very busy, so you were not bothered. As you walk away, you look behind to see Hieda stare at the Dragon Statue with trepidation as she passes the crossroad. You hop on the broom to head home, ready for another interesting afternoon.

*You hum merrily to yourself as you prepare to help someone once again. Filling your heart with Determination.

---

"Took you long enough! I was just starting to get comfortable." Mamizou stated as Reimu walked up to the Hakurei Shrine. The Yokai lay across one of the front steps, no longer disguised. The real form of the Bake-Danuki is more casual. Brown shoulder-length hair and eyes, beige shirt, and maroon shorts. A large leaf sat on her head while she smoked her pipe. Her large ears twitched as she used her ringed tail as a backrest.

Reimu rolled her eyes at the comment and answered, "We just finished getting ingredients for lunch and dinner. It would have been quicker if many things hadn't interrupted us." Mamizou didn't say anything about the implication and responded with, "Really? What's on the menu?"

"Stew. And you're not having any." Reimu deadpaned, and Mamizou snorted at the retaliation. "Fine. You are already helping me, so I won't be in your hair for too long." The Yokai got up and stretched, noticing the closed eyes of the Outsider Kid still on her.

"Oh? The first time seeing an actual Tanuki Yokai? Count yourself lucky, not many get to see the real form of one. We tend to trick people and laugh while they are not looking." Mamizou explained to the curious kid. Or she thinks they're curious. She can't really tell with their blank stare. It was all the more surprising when the kid effortlessly pulled a prank. 'I like it! It makes things more interesting! Keeps people guessing.' The Yokai mentally approved as Reimu called out to the kid.

"Frisk, help me sweep up the leaves again." The maiden intoned, and the child broke from their blank stare and smiled at the call, heading over to assist her eagerly. Mamizou shook her head. "Kids and their special bonds," she said out loud while Marisa joined her. "Yer right, ya know? I'm their teacher, and yet Reimu gets the special treatment. But she earned it. It wasn't all cheery at the beginning," the witch said as the Bake-Danuki watched the duo in shrine garb start to sweep away the leaves from the staging area.

"Really?" Mamizou asked quizically. "What is their story, anyway?" Marisa smiled and gave a simplified story of Frisk's highjinks in the Hakurei Shrine to kill time.

Soon enough, Reimu was done with preparation and had Mamizou stand close to her, as Frisk and Marisa sat on the steps. "Stand over there. Don't interrupt me as I cast the spell," The Hakurei prepared to do her ritual again as the Yokai waited patiently without a remark. When she started to do her methodical motions, she slowly ramped up the speed until she stopped. Reimu stumbled at the end, but she completed the ritual, causing a thick fog to manifest around the Torri.

Reimu wiped her brow, 'That was the eighth time I had to do the spell today.' Even if she didn't need to dance every time she needed to interact with the barrier, it still required a massive amount of concentration. Either way, this could still be practice to figure out how to get Frisk out next.

Mamizou gulped reflexively at the promise of exiting Gensokyo. She didn't let her feelings show around the humans, but she could feel her shoulders relax and her breathing even out. No beast likes to feel caged, and now she could sympathize at that moment. She turned around and bowed to show courtesy.

"Thank you so much, Hakurei! I will get you something nice in return!" Mamizou exclaimed as she turned around without a second thought. She looked at the fog with barely disguised yearning and walked forward towards her exit. The Bake-Danuki waves behind as Frisk and Marisa wave back. When she is at the edge of the fog covering the red gate, she jumps in with fervor, hoping her next trip will be much longer.

*Whump!*

It wasn't. Mamizou fell out of the fog and onto the ground. She held her nose, utterly dumbfounded, like the audience watching her. "What in all of the Hells!? Wait, hold on! Don't do this to me!" The Bake-Danuki got up again and tried to get through the fog to no avail. To the onlookers, it's like she ran in and turned around in the fog to run out. But to her, she only went in a straight line. Mamizou Futatsuiwa was once again defeated by the Hakurei Barrier. The Yokai snapped her head towards Reimu and sprinted over.

Reimu was grabbed by the shoulders, and the manic eyes of the normally calm Mamizou made her concerned. "Hey, Reimu, my friend? What are you doing? I thought we had a deal." Her voice was level, but her face betrayed any temperance the Yokai wanted to display. Reimu shook her head and stated, "I don't know! I wasn't trying to trick you. I thought it would work as well."

Mamizou's tail twitched in agitation as her magic power roiled from under the surface. "Well, Reimu Hakurei, make it work right now, or I will not be happy." The Yokai wanted to declare a Spell Card Duel against Reimu, but knew her shock was genuine and wasn't deceiving her. The maiden looked at the fog and said, "Wait here."

Reimu walked towards the gate, an idea brewing in her head. She hoped she was wrong when crossing the fog bank, hoping to many gods that this gate would put her in the Outside World when she passed it. Marisa can handle Frisk if she were gone, so this is the best time to experiment.

When she crossed the Torri, which was obscured by fog, a sense of ominous foreboding crawled up her body from the first foot that stepped through the arch. She continued until the white mist parted for her to see…

The Hakurei Shrine, with everyone else at it. Frisk stared at Reimu as she turned towards the gate with a dreaded realization. The Hakurei Barrier isn't just keeping Frisk from leaving.

It is keeping everybody from leaving.

---

A warrior stood their ground in the Netherworld against many phantoms that tried to pass her and into the wider world of Gensokyo. "Don't even try! I can take on all of you!" she declared with self-confidence.

All of the phantoms around her put those words to the test. Dozens try to move around the obstacle as they zealously try to escape. The warrior cut down many of them, but a handful will always slip by. She growled in anger as she was overwhelmed by the sheer number that wanted to leave the Netherworld. "Why are they trying to leave? What has caused the spirits to act like this!?" It's been over a week of this, and the warrior couldn't understand why the phantoms kept trying to leave. It's like they are seeking something.

"I have to get to the bottom of this." The warrior continued her station as she plotted how to solve this brewing incident. Her cold heart beats an anthem as she cuts down all opposition.

---

A: Foreshadowing is a narrative device where- JK. I was torn on this one. A part of my brain wanted to push on to other story points, but another part knew I needed to set things up before anything could truly happen. I had to restrain myself and put out a chapter before I spend the rest of eternity chipping away at something that would have been multiple chapters anyway.

See you next time. The next chapter won't take as long. (I hope. Maybe. Don't hold your breath.)