[Touhou] The Vampire's Dragon

[DragonManipulator372]

At the Scarlet Devil Mansion, the residents and their servants live a somewhat idyllic, peaceful life. While the mistresses' whims occasionally take the inhabitants to bizarre places or into dangerous situations, everything always ends well. That is, until the past of one servant comes back to haunt her, threatening those she loves and the destruction of the home she's grown fond of. Can she make peace with those she left behind? Or will they be the end of it all?

 

[DragonManipulator372]

As the sun began to set, the lights in a certain mansion flickered on. The mistress of the household was preparing for an evening flight, and had sent her servant to the Human Village to purchase some goods. The mistress in question was a young-looking girl, clad in a white and red dress, with a mob cap. Her hair was a light blue, while her eyes were a striking red. The faintest tip of a fang peeked out from under her lip. Most noticeably of all, large, black bat wings protruded from her shoulders. Her name was Remilia Scarlet, and she was a vampire, as well as the head and one of the two primary inhabitants of the Scarlet Devil Mansion. Behind her, the building loomed in the darkness.

It was a grand, older-looking building, perhaps something that would have been built in the earlier days of Europe. The walls were painted a dark red, and a large clock tower rose from the back of the mansion. Presently, the girl stood outside of the main entrance - a large, black, wrought-iron gate, with walls extending in either direction beyond. As she stretched her wings, she looked to her left. A slight expression of annoyance spread across her face as she stared at the woman standing next to her.

The woman was clad in an all-green dress, wearing a similar cap with a Chinese character that read "Dragon". She also wore simple black flats on her feet. Her hair was a reddish-orange, and in front, she wore two braids, tied with black bows. In the back, her long hair flowed down to her waist. Her arms were crossed under her chest as she stood, and had it not been for one detail, Remilia would have simply taken flight. However...

"Meiling!" Remilia said sharply.

The woman, known as Meiling, jerked suddenly, and her eyes, which had been fully closed, suddenly flew open. She said loudly "I'm awake! I wasn't sleeping!" to no one in particular. Her heart sank a bit as she noticed her mistress standing next to her, staring up at her with a look of disapproval. "Y-Young Mistress!" She said nervously, bowing. "How can I help you?"

Remilia sighed, and responded "For starters, you can stay awake."

Meiling stammered "A-awake? I uh... I-I wasn't-" Remilia held up a hand, and Meiling mumbled sullenly "Yes, ma'am."

"You know I don't care, but if Sakuya had come back she'd expect me to punish you, and I greatly dislike doing that." She stated. "I am going out for a nighttime flight. I expect you to keep the gate secure while I'm gone. Let no one in or out, as always."

Meiling stood at attention and saluted. "Y-yes, Mistress!" She then managed a smile and tried, in a conciliatory tone, "Have a safe flight!" Remilia merely nodded, then pushed off the ground, taking to the skies. Soon, she was gone from sight.

Meiling sighed. "I know I'm supposed to be awake, but it's not as if there are any real threats to the mansion... The only intruder is that magician, and I still can't win against her in danmaku..." She scratched her head, and murmured "I suppose it's more for appearances and reputation... Ah well. I don't mind. Besides, soon I'll get to go to bed anyway..." She looked around, then, something caught her eye. A glint of metal, a flash of color... but as she turned to look, it was gone. She closed her eyes and focused, trying to home in on any unusual qi, the life force that every living being exuded. However, nothing seemed out of the ordinary, and she soon opened her eyes again. "Hm. I could have sworn..." Her thoughts were interrupted by someone calling her name. "Meiling! I brought you your dinner!"

Meiling turned, and saw a woman with bright red hair and bat wings protruding from her head flying toward her, with a small picnic basket in hand. The woman wore a black skirt and a suit, and, like Remilia, had a set of larger bat wings protruding from her shoulders.

"Koakuma! How are things?" Meiling asked, taking the basket.

"Oh, the same as ever. We're still trying to figure out what Marisa took last time she was here... Miss Patchouli is getting irritated, and when she gets irritated...well, I told her to sit and rest a bit." Koakuma said sheepishly. "But, you know how she gets..."

Meiling chuckled. "Yeah, I do. What did you bring this time?" She asked, opening the basket.

"Some salmon, steak, rice balls...oh, and, Miss Sakuya made a cake today, so we saved you a slice."

Meiling's eyes lit up as she scanned the contents. "Man, Sakuya's cooking really is the best... I'll have to thank her when she gets back. And thank you, Koakuma, for bringing me this!"

Koakuma smiled. "I would have brought you tea, too, but..."

Meiling shook her head. "It's fine. You know how I am about that. Still, I hope you're not being worked too hard?"

"Oh no. It's mostly the same tasks this week around. Organizing, shelving new entries, changing the lightbulbs... That sort of thing. Plus... I get to spend more time with Miss Patchouli..." Koakuma mumbled, blushing slightly.

Meiling, who had already bitten into a piece of salmon, asked "Mhat waf thath latht par?"

Koakuma squeaked. "Nothing! I didn't say anything. I, uh... I-I should be getting back! Lots to do! Enjoy, Meiling!" She waved, before quickly flying back to the mansion.

Meiling gulped, and for a few moments, stared in Koakuma's direction, then chuckled. "She still won't openly admit it, huh...Do your best, Koakuma. You've got this." She gazed up at the sky, and murmured "Still...the moon sure is beautiful tonight."

---

After an hour or two, Remilia returned, landing in front of the gate. "Hello again, Meiling."

Meiling saluted and replied "Hello, again, Miss Remilia! How was your flight?" She inquired. Suddenly, without warning, another woman instantaneously appeared next to Remilia, and Meiling yelled in shock, stumbling backward.

The woman was dressed in a blue maid uniform, and her hair was a bright silver. Like Meiling, her hair was tied in two front braids, but the bows were green. Her hair was also shorter, closer to neck or shoulder length. She opened her eyes, and sharply gazed at Meiling.

"M-M-Miss Sakuya!" Meiling choked out, before breathing a sigh of relief. "I wish you wouldn't do that, you nearly scared me to death!"

"If you were to die that easily, there would be no reason for your continued employment. I would hope you pull through." Sakuya said flatly. "As for her flight, Lady Remilia decided to go off her normal route without telling me..." She grumbled, glaring at Remilia, who quickly averted her gaze.

"I go where I like, Sakuya. Leave me be." Remilia stated nonchalantly.

Sakuya sighed in frustration. "Yes, Milady. Still, I wish you would exercise more caution. There are any number of youkai out there that could cause you harm."

"Yes, but they won't. Not only because I'd win-" Remilia responded, and Meiling cracked a smile, trying not to laugh. "-But also because there's simply no reason to. We don't do anything that would seriously affect the other residents of Gensokyo. Anyone picking a fight at that point is just bull-headed and stubborn."

Sakuya muttered "I can think of another individual..."

Remilia gained a hollow grin and replied "What was that, Sakuya? Would you care to repeat what you said to your mistress?"

Meiling let out a quiet snort, and Sakuya quickly responded "No, Mistress. I said nothing of importance."

Remilia stared at Sakuya for a few more seconds, then turned away. "Hmph. As for you Meiling, I see you're awake and alert, as you should be."

Meiling saluted to Remilia. "Y-yes, mistress! I wouldn't dream of falling asleep while you're away!"

Sakuya glared at Meiling, but said nothing. "Of course not." Remilia answered. "Now, if you please, I'd like to relieve you of duty. I assume Koakuma already delivered your dinner, and the fairy maids have already tidied up your room. Head inside and get some rest."

Meiling smiled gratefully and replied "Yes, of course, Milady. Have a pleasant evening." She bowed, then opened the gates, starting off toward the mansion.

"You are too soft with her, Milady. She'll never learn discipline like this." Sakuya grumbled.

"Oh, hush, Sakuya. You know as well as I do that guarding the gate isn't the only thing she does around here, and besides. It's not like anyone would attack us anyway; having Meiling around to guard is more symbolic than anything. I trust her...and I know you do as well." Remilia finished, giving Sakuya a pointed look.

Sakuya sighed. "Correct as ever, Milady. Still, I wish she'd keep up better appearances..."

Remilia waved her away. "Appearances are cheap. Action is what matters, and we already have enough grandeur, in any case. Having said that...you should go in and get some rest too, Sakuya. You're still human, even despite your strength."

Sakuya bowed, and replied "Yes, Milady. Good evening." She then simply disappeared, as if she had never been there at all.

Remilia then turned her gaze to the mansion. "...Meiling, huh... Given what she is...I don't really care one way or the other. Though I suppose I don't know everything..."

---

Meiling hung up her uniform, and began to change into a t-shirt and boxers, as she thought of the night's exchanges. "Sakuya, Lady Remilia, Patchouli, Koakuma, and..." Meiling paused, smiling as she thought of one of the residents in particular. "...I really do love them all. Even despite our occasional fights... I wouldn't give them up for the world." As she crawled into bed and began to drift off, she sighed happily. "Tomorrow is another day, spent with everyone. I couldn't ask for more..."

 

[DragonManipulator372]

The next afternoon, Meiling was taking a break from gatekeeping to tend to the SDM's garden. It was a small job, but one she liked doing. The fresh air, the sunshine...and putting new life in the ground to grow. She did have some regret that Remilia couldn't fully enjoy it, as the vampire was sitting at a nearby table, under an umbrella. Still, it was nice to be there, either way.

"Milady, did we plant new sprouts?" Meiling asked, noticing a few plants she hadn't before.

"Indeed. The 'goods' I asked Sakuya to get yesterday were various fruit and vegetable seeds. Normally they wouldn't grow that fast, but Sakuya... nudged them along a little bit." Remilia took a sip of tea, then continued "It should save us some trips to the village in the future; from what I understand, homegrown produce is said to taste better, at any rate."

Meiling chuckled awkwardly. "A-ah...Is that so?" She turned back to the garden, picking up a trowel. In truth, she knew Remilia could only truly gain sustenance from blood, but as her mistress enjoyed occasionally eating real food, she chose not to argue. Then a thought occurred to her. I suppose these are more for us than the mistresses; they know our diets are different. Meiling smiled warmly, knowing that, even if that was the case, Remilia wouldn't admit it. However, it was nice to be appreciated.

She stood up and wiped the sweat from her brow, but as she raised her gaze, she noticed someone standing in a tree, on a branch. Her eyes narrowed. It was a woman, and she wore a white dress and black sunhat with red frills. Her hair was a purple-indigo color, and her expression was relatively neutral. However, she was staring intently at Meiling, and even though she'd been spotted, she didn't seem to care.

Meiling stared at her, slight panic rising in her throat. "Iku Nagae..." she muttered. "What the hell is she doing here...?" Iku's expression turned cold and condescending, before she leapt into the sky, and flew off.

A bead of sweat traced down Meiling's face, one created by anxiety. Not exertion. She glanced down at her hand, and saw she was trembling. Stop it. She growled to herself. Stop it, now. She was probably just scouting. There's nothing for her to report, no cause for alarm. I haven't done anything. So why... She clenched her fist. Why is my heart pounding so fast?!

"Meiling?" a voice called. Meiling gasped, and turned around, taking a defensive pose. However, the only person she saw was Sakuya. Unperturbed, Sakuya's eyes narrowed.

Meiling sighed in relief, and relaxed. "Miss Sakuya. What was it you needed?" She asked.

"I've been calling you for the last fifteen seconds. Did you suddenly and conveniently go deaf?" Sakuya accused.

Meiling's eyes widened and she shook her head. "N-no! No, no, I was just... deep in thought."

Sakuya's gaze hovered on Meiling's face, and for some reason, her own expression softened. "...The mistress and I are heading inside. Would you like to join us for some tea?"

"Tea? Um..." Normally Meiling refused, but today, she felt she could probably use it. "Actually, Miss Sakuya, I'd like to make the tea today, if you don't mind."

Sakuya was taken aback. "You? Make the tea? I... I don't see why not, but... you rarely go out of your way like this. Are you sick?" She questioned sharply.

At this, Meiling chuckled. "No, no, I'm fine. Just... consider it my appreciation for your cooking last night."

Sakuya stared, and then turned away nonchalantly. "Flattery will get you nowhere. In any case, let us head in. I think we'll take you up on your offer." With that, Sakuya disappeared, just like she had the night before. Meiling sighed, then turned to look at the sky, in the direction Iku had flown off in. Shaking her head, she headed toward the mansion's front entrance.

---

Remilia, as well as a few other people, were sitting on the couch in the main living room, awaiting their tea. Sakuya was sitting as well, feeling a bit out of place. "Um...Milady. I feel I should be doing something. Shall I go check to make sure Meiling isn't... well, burning down the kitchen?" Remilia shook her head.

"You're a hard worker, Sakuya, but sometimes I wish you'd work a little less hard, if you catch my meaning." She responded. "Duties are all fine and well, but you're still, first and foremost, a member of this household. As such, you have the right to relax-" Remilia pushed Sakuya's shoulders into the couch "-the same as the rest of us. Also, it's rare that Meiling makes us tea, especially considering she never drinks any of ours. I think we should respect her hospitality."

Sakuya sighed. "Yes, Milady. Forgive me." At that moment, Meiling came out from the kitchen, holding a large tray with various items on it.

"Everything is ready!" Meiling announced cheerfully, setting the tray down on the table. The others gazed down, and saw any number of tools and accessories waiting and ready.

Sakuya stared in disbelief. "Meiling... what is all this, exactly? I see the teapot, and the water, but..."

One of the people, a girl with vivid purple hair, clad in a white dress and cap, as well as what appeared to be white slippers, interrupted. "It's a tea ceremony. And from the looks of it, it's a rather extensive one at that."

Meiling nodded. "It is. You're well-read, Patchouli. ...Not that that's anything new." The girl, Patchouli Knowledge, gave a slight nod, and fell silent again.

Koakuma, who was also present, inquired "But what for? We always serve tea the normal way..."

Meiling smiled, and responded "Normal tea is fine and good, but if I could ask for your patience...I'm sure you won't regret it."

Remilia, intrigued, gave a snaggletoothed smile. "Oh? I certainly hope not. You seem to have gone to quite the effort."

"Of course she did! Meiling always does her best!" Another girl spoke up, and Meiling's gaze turned to her. The girl wore a red dress and a white mob cap on her head. Her hair was a sunshine yellow, and, like Remilia, her eyes were a deep red, with slits for pupils. She swung her knees back and forth, a wide grin on her face. What was most eye-catching were her wings: two reddish extensions of unknown material. Underneath, on each wing, eight crystals floated, as if attached by some invisible force. The crystals were all the colors of the rainbow, and had a slight glow to them.

Meiling broke into a smile. "Thank you, Flan-" Sakuya cleared her throat with a loud AHEM! Meiling caught herself, and continued "Lady Flandre." The girl, known as Flandre Scarlet, was the younger sister of Remilia.

"Booooo! You're no fun, Sakuya!" Flan drawled. "Leave Meiling alone already!"

Remilia closed her eyes and said with a smile "Now, Flan. Sakuya is only doing her job. Why don't you focus on cheering on Meiling, instead?"

Meiling's eyes widened a bit and she laughed nervously "Ahaha! A-actually, if it's all the same, miladies, I'd prefer silence for this? It takes some serious concentration. Can you do that for me, Flan?" Remilia put a hand out in front of Sakuya as she glared at Meiling, but said nothing.

"Hmmmm~ Okay!" Flandre said cheerfully. "I can be quiet!" Meiling nodded, and turned back to the tray, beginning to perform the tea ceremony and going about the preparations.

Partway through, she noticed Sakuya staring at her, and asked nervously "Eh? Um... What's wrong, Miss Sakuya?"

Sakuya tilted her head and asked "Where did you learn such a complicated tea ceremony, Meiling? I've never seen that one before."

Patchouli chimed in with "I have. But, I'll let Meiling explain. It's her tea, after all."

Meiling glanced at Patchouli before smiling at Sakuya. "Ah, no, Miss Sakuya, you wouldn't have. It's a secret tea ceremony taught only to-"

"Oooh, ooh! I know! Only dragons can learn it, right?" Flandre exclaimed. Meiling stopped what she was doing, and the room went dead quiet. For the first time, Remilia looked nervous, as her eyes flew between Meiling and her sister. Sakuya quietly pulled out her watch, and Patchouli's hands began to glow. Flandre looked around and said "What? What's wrong with everyone? Did I say something wrong?"

Meiling bent down in front of Flandre, and smiled, though not unkindly. "That's right, Flan. But remember what I've taught you? We don't talk about it, except in our quiet voices, right?"

Flan grumbled. "But whyyyyy~? I think it's cool having a dragon as a-" Meiling quickly covered Flan's mouth.

"Because... Flan..." Meiling said in a pained way. "You already know why. You're very smart for knowing that this tea ceremony is for dragons, which means I know you're smart enough to know why you should speak carefully and softly about this. Can you do that for me, Flan?"

Without saying anything, Flan nodded her head with a muffled "Mm-hmm." Everyone breathed a deep sigh of relief, and Sakuya and Patchouli relaxed.

Meiling spoke softly as she returned to her tray, and resumed the tea ceremony. "Flandre is correct. This tea ceremony is only taught to dragons..." Meiling gazed up at the ceiling, closing her eyes. "...Like me."

"This is why I allowed Meiling to explain," Patchouli stated flatly. "Discretion is important."

Meiling took a deep breath, then sighed. When her gaze returned to the others, the shadow was gone from her eyes, and she smiled.

"The rest of you have always known, of course. From the moment I stepped foot inside this household. And I appreciate everything that you've done for me, including keeping it a secret. That is why I'm making your tea today." Having finished, Meiling poured out some in a mug for herself, and continued "It is a long, ancient, and complicated ceremony, but if you do it just right..." She took a sip, then sighed again. "There's no finer tea in this, or any, world. And more than that... It reminds me of home."

Remilia and Flan lowered their gazes, feeling uncomfortable. Likewise, Sakuya turned away, and Patchouli closed her eyes. Koakuma simply stared in disbelief.

"Before all the politics... the wrath, the corruption. Before... well." Meiling smiled weakly. "Before the Dragon God disappeared." There was silence, and Meiling spoke up again, nervously. "A-ah! I, uh, apologize, mistresses! I'm rambling. I'd rather not go any further with this; this isn't why I brought you all here, after all. Please, I'll serve this to you now, so enjoy." She finished, taking the teapot off the tray: a short, gold teapot with an exceptionally long spout.

She took a deep breath, then threw all the cups into the air. She brought the teapot up with one arm behind her head, and stood on one leg. One by one, she caught the cups and swiftly filled them, pouring the tea from the kettle with expert finesse and care. Once all the tea cups were set, she set the kettle down and bowed.

The other residents sat in shock at first, then burst into fierce applause. Only Sakuya didn't clap, but she did smile, and murmur under her breath: "Well, well..."

Remilia reached for a cup, and took a brief sip. Her eyes widened and she stared at Meiling, who was grinning from ear to ear. "Meiling... You weren't lying, this is the finest tea I've ever tasted. The taste is... incredible."

Patchouli nodded, as she too put the cup to her lips for a second sip. "This tea tells quite the story, just through its flavor. Ancient tradition, of peace and prosperity... The fresh air of nature and the warmth of the summer sun. Outstanding work, Meiling."

Flandre took a big gulp, and she kicked her legs, eyes widening. "It's good!" She exclaimed. "It's really really yummy, Meiling! Wow!"

Meiling smiled, a slight blush coming over her face. "Thank you, Milady... I was certainly hoping it would turn out well. As I said, consider it a thank you, from me to all of you, for the life you've given me, and the experiences I've had. And I hope to have many more."

Flan set her cup down, then leapt at Meiling, hugging her with her whole body. Meiling, in surprise, stumbled backward a few steps. Remilia and Patchouli also stepped forward, wrapping their arms around her, with Koakuma soon joining in. Sakuya watched from a distance, but smiled warmly for the first time in a while.

Meiling wrapped her arms around everyone as best she could, her eyes becoming a bit misty. "You are a valuable member of this household, but more than that...a dear friend." Remilia murmured. "Never, ever forget that. I can safely say we'd be lost without you." The others nodded in agreement, with a "Mm, mm."

As they peeled themselves off of Meiling, one by one, tears welled in her eyes, and she bowed deeply, her voice wavering. "Yes! Thank you Milady... I couldn't even if I tried!"

---

Soon, night came again, and as always, Meiling was guarding the gate until it was time for her shift to end. She yawned, thinking over the day's events, and smiling once more at the thought of being around her friends... no, family.

Suddenly, a voice called out to her. "Meiling! Heyyy!"

Koakuma, just like the night before, had brought Meiling dinner. As always, Meiling thanked her, and was about to start eating, but Koakuma said "Oh, and there's one other thing: you got a letter."

Meiling paused. "A letter? We don't get letters. We don't even have a mailbox."

Koakuma shrugged, and said "We found it outside the entrance, sitting in broad daylight. At first we thought it may have been one of those trashy newspapers from the tengu, but it turned out to be a letter for you." She handed the letter to Meiling, and then said "I'll be heading back now! Enjoy your dinner!"

Meiling waved at Koakuma as she flew away, then stared at the envelope for a few moments before opening it. "Who would want to send me a letter...?" Her eyes narrowed, as the paper inside was nearly blank. Dead center, there were only three words.

I'm hungry.
-Himemushi

Meiling stared, not comprehending what she was seeing. "Himemushi? I... don't even know any Himemushi. Who sent this?" She sighed, and crumpled up the paper, shoving it in her pocket. "I'll bet one of the fairies sent me this as a joke. I wish they'd find someone else to prank..." She mumbled, as her gaze, once again, rose to the night sky, as the first stars began to come out. "Oh, it doesn't matter. Everyone has to have fun somehow, I guess..."

 

[DragonManipulator372]

As another day in the SDM began, the clouds began to gather. Remilia and Sakuya were in the main living room by themselves this time, and all was quiet.

"More tea, Milady?" Sakuya asked.

Remilia nodded, but her mind seemed preoccupied with something else. "Sakuya..."

"Yes, Milady?"

"How do you feel about Meiling?"

Sakuya tilted her head. "Beg pardon, Mistress?"

"Meiling. How do you feel about her? What she is? What she's like? Her past?" Remilia broke her gaze from the window, now turning to stare directly at Sakuya.

Sakuya was unsure how to answer, but eventually began "Well, Milady..." She sighed. "As you know, when you took me into your abode, for the first time, I had the pleasure of meeting everyone. Patchouli, you, Milady, Lady Flandre, Koakuma, and... Meiling." Sakuya's own gaze turned to stare at the gathering clouds, as a slight drizzle had begun. "I'm sure you were aware of this already, but back when you first gave me shelter, I'd come from a rather terrible situation. My confidence was...Lacking, shall we say. In contrast, Meiling had little else but overflowing confidence. As I got to know her, she left quite the impression on my young mind, I suppose. I wanted to be strong..." Sakuya's gaze grew a little sad. "To be confident, to be able to walk my own path. I wanted her bravery, her kindness, her... "warmth". She just... radiated such a kind, warm energy. I wanted to grow up to be exactly like Meiling." Sakuya sighed again, as the rain began to truly fall, now.

"Unfortunately, as I grew up, and as I became the way I am now, I know she has far too many flaws to count. She's lazy, cocky, easy-going... a klutz, she's sloppy and, in my opinion, gets too lax around Lady Flandre."

Remilia said nothing, closing her eyes and taking a sip of tea. She waited.

A slight smile graced Sakuya's lips, and she continued "...But... I suppose I still look up to her on some level, even now. I cannot relax in the same way she can. I don't have the easygoing nature that she has. But more importantly... She can do it when it counts. When things get down to the wire, when times are dark and seem hopeless. She's kind enough to the fairy maids, and..." Sakuya paused. "I think she loves us all, very, very much. Even though she's as dense as a rock... I still like to keep that memory of when I first met her."

Remilia spoke, with her eyes still closed. "I can see that. You braid your hair the same way as her, even after all these years."

Sakuya's eyes widened, and then she chuckled. "Perceptive, as ever, Milady. It seems I cannot hide anything from you."

Remilia turned to Sakuya, and a gentle smile played on her face. "What sort of mistress would I be...if I didn't treat my staff and family with respect? If I didn't know the true feelings of everyone in this mansion? Being this perceptive comes naturally when there are people you love."

Sakuya blushed slightly, for the first time in a while, and turned her gaze away. "...Indeed, Milady."

"However, that wasn't quite what I was asking, though I do appreciate the sincerity." Remilia stated.

"Milady?" Sakuya questioned.

Remilia closed her eyes again, and sipped her tea before responding. "I meant what she is. Where she comes from. She's a higher being than all of us. How does that make you feel? Knowing that a being so sacred, so revered, and with such a vast and complex history... is the servant and gatekeeper of a vampire half her size?"

Sakuya's face grew stern. "I don't believe her species or past have any bearing on this household. Regardless of what she may be, she is a member of the staff and, though it is aggravating to say, a dear friend. That is all that matters. Anything else isn't worth mentioning."

Remilia set her cup down, then opened her eyes, smiling at Sakuya. "A wise and sensible answer. I'd expect nothing less."

Sakuya bowed. "Thank you, Milady."

"For now, you are dismissed, Sakuya. I appreciate your counsel...and your honesty."

"Yes, Milady." With that, Sakuya disappeared.

For a few minutes, there was silence. Then, Remilia spoke. "You can come out now, Meiling."

From behind a nearby archway, Meiling walked. Her hand covered her mouth, and tears were silently streaming down her face. "Y... Yesh, M-Mishtress." She choked out.

Remilia stood up and walked over to Meiling. "Take this." She handed Meiling a handkerchief. "Your face is a mess." She said, in a gentle tone of voice.

"M-Mistresh, I c-couldn't posshibly-" Meiling started.

"Just take it." Remilia insisted. Meiling paused, then gingerly took the handkerchief from Remilia, wiping and drying her tears.

"I hope that was enough." Remilia smiled. "I thought maybe, after Flan spoke out of turn yesterday, you might have felt guilty or depressed. Take this as a reassurance. We're not letting you go anywhere."

Meiling sniffed loudly, then gave a simple nod. Remilia walked back over to the window, and Meiling asked "Uhm... Mistress, your handkerch-"

"Keep it. As a token of appreciation. I'll have Sakuya sew another one for me later." Remilia responded, taking her seat. "While I have you here, there's something else I'd like to ask."

Meiling nodded, responding "Ask me anything, Mistress."

"I have a vague idea of why you left the Dragon Palace in the first place. But I've yet to hear further details. I was wondering whether you can tell me more, as well as tell me anything you know about the Dragon God. Assuming it doesn't bring up memories that are too painful for you to recount." Remilia added.

Meiling shook her head. "No, Mistress. I'd be happy to tell you. The main reason I left was...well, politics, mainly. Being a dragon brings trouble and responsibility I didn't feel I could bear. That, and the fact that conflict has been brewing ever since the Dragon God disappeared. I asked many times about his whereabouts, but I never saw him myself, and none of my brethren would tell me anything other than that he was 'elsewhere'. I had decided to leave all the bickering and rage behind me, and wished to live a peaceful life. So, I left, and descended to the realm below. And after you found me... Well. You know the rest." She chuckled.

For a while, Remilia was silent. Then: "And what kind of politics?"

Meiling sighed in frustration. "After the Dragon God vanished, there was no consensus on who should be left in charge. Each of the older, more revered dragons believed they held the right to lead, and naturally that lead to argument and eventually conflict. I had no such desire, but it wasn't up to me; inaction and neutrality were seen as treason."

At this, Remilia's face drew into a scowl. "Talk less and suffer more, eh. I've always hated such ethics. Opinions need not be given, even under duress. ...Especially not under duress. Pressure clouds the mind and creates panic. I never thought that dragons would stoop to such a mundane, mortal conflict."

Meiling shook her head. "Nor did I, Miss Remilia. We're supposed to be the example. To be the ones who, above all else, maintain their composure and bring about peace. It seems, somewhere along the way..." Meiling turned away. "My brethren forgot that."

Remilia fell silent for a time, then said "Dismissed. And take a coat out with you. It seems this rain isn't going to let up any time soon."

Meiling saluted, and responded "Yes, Milady!" before leaving to go back to the gate.

Remilia sighed, then turned. "As for you..." She turned to the wall, where a small black insect sat. She stood up, then, swiftly, dashed to the wall and took the bug in her hand: a centipede. "I know you can hear me, and I dislike repeating myself, so I'll say this once." Remilia murmured in a lethal tone, as she began to glow red. "If you attack or even so much as touch Meiling...I will make sure your end is a slow and agonizing one. Consider this your first and only warning. The full fury of this household will descend upon you, in all its horrible glory. Have a pleasant day." She growled, before crushing the centipede in her fist, killing it. The red glow around her body slowly faded, and she called. "Sakuya."

Instantly, Sakuya appeared from thin air. "Yes, Milady." She bowed.

"Go to Patchouli and tell her to activate every protection and barrier spell her library can provide. This mansion is now in lockdown. Until further notice, it will become a fortress, a stronghold. No one gets in or out. And if you see any centipedes...Annihilate them on sight."

Without so much as a confused tilt of the head, Sakuya bowed once more. "It will be done, Milady." With that, Sakuya vanished as quickly as she came.

Remilia walked over to the window, and gazed up at the sky. The rain, which had grown more intense by now, was mercilessly pelting the windows. "Whoever threatens us, let them come. If they want a fight...We'll bring them Hell."

 

[DragonManipulator372]

At the Hakurei Shrine, two people sat on its veranda. One was a blonde, short woman wearing a witch hat and all black and white clothes. Her expression was that of a peaceful smile, as she gazed up at the sky. The woman sitting next to her let out a sigh. She had long, brown hair, and at the front, two tube-like ornaments adorned her hair.

"Sure is peaceful, huh, Reimu?" The black-and-white girl spoke. She reached to her left, picking up a cup of green tea and taking a sip.

"Yeah." The red-white girl, Reimu Hakurei responded. "It's always nice when nothing's happening, because it means less work for me, and that all the youkai are behaving themselves."

"I guess, but don't ya want somethin' to happen? An incident? Some youkai stirrin' up trouble in the Village? Some new plot from the folks at Moriya?" The black-and-white suggested, tapping her foot.

Reimu let out an aggravated sigh. "Not everyone is as antsy and impatient as you, Marisa. If something does happen, I'll curse you for a hundred years."

Marisa Kirisame, the other girl, chuckled nervously. "Aw, come on. Ya wouldn't do that to your best and lovable friend, wouldja?" Reimu didn't respond, taking a sip of tea. Marisa grumbled in irritation, and continued "Even the fairies ain't stirring up trouble today. Doesn't that bother ya? Somethin' oughta be happenin' somewhere, right?" She prodded.

"Marisa, absence of an incident isn't in and of itself an incident. Don't make up things that aren't there." Reimu stated flatly. "Until something does happen, I'm not moving. You're free to as you like."

"Fine. After I finish this tea, maybe I'll stir up somethin' myself. Cause a little mayhem, boom, boom, BZZZZZZZT!!" She exclaimed, mimicking the sounds of one of her special techniques.

Reimu started "Like I told you before, if you start something-"

Suddenly, there was a loud, powerful humming noise, and both girls stood up. They glanced at each other, then Reimu pushed off the ground, flying into the air, while Marisa got on her nearby broom and kicked off. Once they were high enough to see a fair distance, Reimu growled "What... the hell... is that?"

In the distance, the Scarlet Devil Mansion was visible, although it was clear that something was amiss. A swirling vortex of glowing energy shimmered into existence around the roof of the clock tower. As Reimu and Marisa watched, dome-like magical barriers began to expand and surround the mansion. One after another, they got bigger and bigger, stacking inside each other like Matryoshka dolls, each one a different color. Red, orange, yellow...Soon all the colors of the rainbow were present, a seven-layer dome barrier now encasing the mansion. Massive spikes of energy erupted from the outermost dome. Next, millions of tiny orbs of energy flew into the air, seemingly coming from within the tower. They surrounded the outer dome, falling into a grid-like pattern, before clean, red beams interlocked between every orb, creating a sort of net around the outer dome.

"What the hell is goin' on?!!" Marisa yelled, trying to speak above the deafening sounds of the many magics being cast.

Reimu shouted "I don't know, but I bet we're about to find out!"

It seemed the mansion wasn't finished, however. Giant ofuda, sacred slips of paper with prayers of protection on them, plastered themselves all over the outer dome. Next, thousands of silver knives materialized around the outer dome, hovering in midair, as if waiting. Then, in the innermost dome, the water around the mansion began to rise, eventually filling the inner dome and submerging the mansion completely. From the ground around the mansion erupted gigantic, thick trees, which coiled themselves around the mansion like snakes. There was a creaking sound as the vines slammed into each other, leaving no space in between. Finally, a colossal purple magic circle, with intricate sigils and letters, expanded underneath the mansion. From it, billowing purple miasma spewed, eventually blocking the view of the mansion from outside of the domes.

Reimu and Marisa still heard the sounds of sorcery coming from the mansion's direction, but they could no longer see what was happening. Marisa sat, aghast, on her broom. Reimu's gaze hardened into a glare. "This reeks of an incident." She murmured. "Something big. We need to go check that out, now."

Trying to regain her composure, Marisa asked "Y-...Ya think they're tryin' to keep somethin' in?"

Reimu pulled out some ofuda from within her dress, responding "No. I think they're trying to keep something out. I intend to find out what." With that, Reimu flew off swiftly towards the mansion.

"H-hey!!" Marisa yelled. "No fair, you got a head start!" She called after Reimu, flying on her broom in pursuit.

---

Patchouli gasped, coughing and hacking violently. Koakuma rushed to her side, exclaiming "Miss Patchouli!"

Remilia had a pained look on her face as she watched, but she murmured "Thank you, Patchy. I know that... was probably the most powerful magic show you've performed in a while. Koakuma, please, escort Patchouli to her bedroom and see that she gets some rest." Koakuma nodded, and helped Patchouli stand up, her expression one of worry.

"This... this is all I can do... for you..." Patchouli breathed heavily, turning to Remilia. "I hope...it's enough..."

Remilia nodded. "More than I could have asked for. Go ahead and lie down." As Koakuma and Patchouli began to stagger away, Remilia looked around the library. Books were strewn everywhere, some on the floor, some on the nearby table, some even resting atop the bookshelves, their spines facing upward, pages spread. "Patchouli, it seems, can get quite terrifying if she's serious." Remilia stated, more to herself than others.

"Mistress, would you like me to clean up?" Sakuya asked, bowing.

"Please do, Sakuya." Remilia replied. Only a few moments after Remilia had spoken, the library was suddenly orderly and clean again, with no fanfare or sound whatsoever. Sakuya appeared in front of Remilia, and spoke "It is done, Mistress."

Remilia, unsurprised, nodded, and replied "Dismissed." Sakuya promptly vanished. She then turned, where Meiling stood, Flan standing behind her and holding her hand.

"Sis? What's going on?" Flandre asked. "Are we playing hide-and-seek with the mansion?"

Remilia walked over to her sister, and gently took hold of her shoulders. "Sadly, no, Flan. At the moment, we are all in danger, and so I have asked Patchouli to protect the mansion as best she can. For now, I want you to stay near Meiling, okay? Don't leave her side no matter what."

Flandre paused, then nodded. "Sure, sis. I can do that."

Remilia's gaze turned upwards, toward Meiling. "Meiling. I have good reason to believe that you, more than any of us, are the one being targeted."

Meiling tilted her head. "Me, mistress?" She asked incredulously. "Pardon my saying so, but aren't you or Flan more valuable?"

Remilia shook her head. "No. Whoever it is knows who YOU are. The only theory I have is that the attacker sees and hears through centipede scouts. Which is why I am asking you: If you see any centipedes, destroy them immediately."

Meiling saluted. "Yes, Milady."

Remilia's gaze softened. "Meiling."

Meiling gave a start, and she replied "Y-yes, Milady?"

"If whoever let the secret out was one of us..." Remilia began.

"Milady, I don't believe that's-"

Remilia repeated herself, slightly louder. "IF the informant was one of us. ...I need to know that when the time comes, you will do what is necessary."

Meiling's face grew somber. "Milady. I don't understand. Are you implying-"

"Yes." Remilia interrupted. "I need to know that you will do what must be done. Regardless of who it is, regardless of when or where. For the good of this household, and for your own good as well."

Meiling averted her gaze. "I... I will do what I must, Milady."

"Meiling." Remilia said sharply, making Meiling jump. "Look me in the eye, and promise me."

Meiling met Remilia's gaze, and she gulped. "I — I promise that, whatever the outcome, I will do my duty, and protect this household at all costs."

Remilia exhaled. "Good. At this time, I don't believe whoever told our attacker was someone of this household. The fairy maids don't care about such matters, and I trust the rest of you. This is, for all intents and purposes, an external threat until further notice." She rubbed her temples, feeling the beginnings of a headache. "For now, let's just-"

There was a loud bang outside, and Meiling and Remilia turned, Remilia bristling with apprehension. "Someone is here. I will go look, you two stay here." Meiling and Flan nodded, their eyes following Remilia as she walked out of the room.

Flan tugged on Meiling's dress, and said "Hey, hey, Meiling."

Meiling looked down at Flandre with a smile. "What is it, Flan?"

"Hey, are we really in danger? Me and sis are strong. I don't think we should be worrying so much." Flan stated anxiously. "If any bad guys come, can't I just make them go boom?"

Meiling's smile faded a bit, and she replied "I don't think so, Flan. The kind of bad guys we're up against might not even stop after a hundred booms. They're really really strong."

"Stronger than sis?" Flan asked curiously.

"Stronger than even Remi." Meiling nodded. "But it's okay. Because Patchy's taking care of us, and she's pretty strong herself, when it counts. I don't think we need to worry right now, but if something does happen, you heard your sister: don't leave my side."

Flandre gazed in the direction her sister had left, and after a brief pause, she replied "I won't."

---

Remilia strode swiftly to the front entrance, a red spear shimmering into existence in her hand: her spear, Gungnir. She was about to throw the door open, but then she remembered - the mansion was currently underwater. She cried out in frustration, as another bang rang out from beyond the door. "Sakuya!" She yelled.

Sakuya, as always, appeared instantly. "Yes, Milady."

"Are there any ways out of the mansion that won't involve me drowning?" Remilia growled.

"Yes Milady. You may have forgotten, but the basement has many underground passages. You might use those to escape." She bowed.

"Come with me. I'll have you be my guide." Remilia turned on her heel, heading back to the stairwell.

"Yes, Milady." Sakuya bowed again, following after Remilia.

As Remilia walked down the stairs, she asked "Sakuya. Have you seen any other centipedes?"

"I have seen but one other, Mistress. As you requested, I destroyed it on sight." Sakuya replied.

"Good. I don't know who's daring to come and threaten the mansion but I won't have it. We're going to ensure they regret it for the rest of their miserable lives." Remilia growled, a slight red glow surrounding her now.

"I agree, Mistress. Regarding the letter that was sent to Meiling the other day..."

"Huh? A letter? We don't get letters." Remilia glanced at Sakuya, now picking between several tunnels that lie before them.

"No, Milady. However, someone did deliver a letter, leaving it near the front entrance. The only words written on it were 'I'm hungry', signed by a 'Himemushi'".

As Remilia picked a path, she responded "And you believe this Himemushi person is the one threatening us?"

"I highly suspect it. They are either the direct perpetrator, or one of their associates. I did ask the kappa to try and identify the handwriting, as well as inform us of any other details on the paper that might help." Sakuya continued diligently following Remilia, and briefly interrupted herself. "You'll want to take the second from the left, Milady."

Remilia grunted a simple "Hm", following Sakuya's instructions.

"As we now know, our attacker uses centipedes for reconnaissance, and it peaked my interest. During the evening yesterday, I consulted one of the many youkai cataloguing books in the library, and I believe I may already know the species of our attacker."

At this, Remilia stopped at the final doorway out. "Is that true?"

Sakuya bowed. "It is, Milady. Shall I?"

Remilia nodded, turning to face Sakuya. "Proceed."

Sakuya cleared her throat, and began. "To most, the dragon is considered the most powerful and ancient creature in youkai history. They have been portrayed as the divine rulers of the world, ensuring balance and peace. Few would dare stand against them, for fear of annihilation. However..." Sakuya's expression darkened. "There is but one youkai who not only challenges the dragons, they hunt them."

Remilia stared in disbelief. "There is a youkai that hunts dragons? Are they extinct? At the very least they must be quite stupid."

"I thought the same, Milady. However it seems a few of their kind have survived and most of their whereabouts are unknown. They possess certain qualities that make hunting dragons child's play to them. It is rare that their quarry escapes."

As she heard this, a bead of sweat traced down Remilia's face. "And... the name, of this youkai?" Remilia asked quietly.

Sakuya paused, then replied "Oomukade, Milady. A giant centipede."


Remilia stared. "A centipede. How exactly does a centipede defeat a dragon?"

"Supposedly," Sakuya sighed, "These oomukade possess immense and dreadful magical power, and that magical power is tempered and refined by their naturally negative aura. There is... one other thing, Milady." Remilia's fist clenched tightly, having a feeling that what she was about to hear wouldn't be good news. "The oomukade, they don't hunt dragons for sport. It's not a display of power or for bragging rights, or any other vain thing. Their purpose is simple. They hunt the dragons — as food."

Remilia's blood ran cold. "Food? They kill and EAT dragons?"

"Yes Milady." Sakuya nodded.

Remilia's fist grew tighter, her fingernails beginning to draw blood from her palm. "How insolent. How disrespectful, disgusting, abhorrent."

Sakuya tried to continue. "Therefore, Milady, with regards to Meiling—"

Remilia interrupted. "Sakuya. Do not finish that sentence."

Sakuya stopped, then replied "...Yes, Milady."

Remilia spat coldly "I shall not let such a disgusting, lowly creature make a meal of my gatekeeper. Such a thing would throw shame and ridicule on this mansion, but even more importantly..." She threw the exit door open, Gungnir in hand. "...I will not lose a beloved friend this way."

---

"It's not budgin', Reimu." Marisa moaned.

"Then hit harder." Reimu replied, aiming a kick at the outermost barrier. "Use your laser thing and blast it open, if you have to."

Marisa scoffed in offense. "Laser thing?! First of all, it's called a Mini-Hakkero, and secondly—"

"Would you just fire the stupid laser already?" Reimu grumbled, kicking the barrier again.

Marisa rolled her eyes, and held up her Mini-Hakkero, an octagonal device with marks around its frame. "Masterrrrrrrr—"

"I'd prefer if you didn't do that." A voice came from their left.

Marisa and Reimu turned to see the mistress of SDM, Remilia Scarlet, standing there, with her maid, Sakuya, behind her.

"You!" Reimu growled. "Now what are you up to? What's all this? If you're trying to mess things up again like you did that time—"

"Now is not the time for argument." Sakuya stepped forward, gazing at Reimu and Marisa with disdain. "There is an immediate threat to this household, and we would kindly ask you to leave."

"Oh yeah? Why don't ya make us, then?" Marisa grinned. "What, is Patchouli in a huff again cuz I borrowed her books? Did the little sister escape again? Or are ya talkin' about the sun, still? Cuz ya do know that that's never goin' away, right?"

Remilia sighed, and said "I'll take it from here, Sakuya. Dismissed, go ensure Meiling and Flan are safe."

Sakuya bowed with a "Yes, Milady," and disappeared.

Marisa tilted her head. "Meiling? What's the deal with her? She get caught up in some shady youkai's plan or somethin'?"

"While I don't have to tell you anything..." Remilia growled, staring Marisa down. "I will at least say this much. Meiling is in great danger now. These precautionary measures are to protect her, and nothing more than that."

Reimu stepped forward, shoving Marisa out of the way. "I don't believe you. For all I know this could be another one of your crazy schemes that gets out of control."

Remilia shrugged, giving them a fanged smile. "Believe me or don't. It doesn't matter." She glared at Reimu. "No one is getting in or out of this mansion until further notice. We're on lockdown, and given who we think the suspect is, you, frankly, should be panicking as well."

Marisa spoke up. "Suspect? What, like a crime or somethin'? Is this like that time we helped Satori out?"

Remilia rolled her eyes. "I'm afraid it's more than just an evil spirit throwing a temper tantrum. Unfortunately, to disclose what kind of youkai is attacking us would be to share things I am not at liberty to say, nor would I do so. But be aware...this youkai is incredibly powerful when it gets serious. And I do mean towards the upper limits of powerful."

Reimu retorted "So you're going to tell us that an incredibly dangerous youkai is out and about in Gensokyo, that we should be panicking, and then just walk away without giving us any details?"

Remilia nodded, grinning wider. "That's right."

Reimu kicked the barrier, hard. "You brat! Quit acting like a spoiled kid!"

Remilia laughed, and replied "Oh, but I am spoiled! Can't you tell by where I live?" As she smiled again, she pointed out: "In every incident in the past, you've made your way toward the perpetrator, starting with no information. I don't see why this time should be any different. Though I will give you a statement, if that's what you'd like."

Marisa glared. "Oh yeah? And what's that?!"

Remilia's expression grew cold. "You're starting to bug me. Go and skitter off somewhere." With that, she turned around, and headed back into the tunnel, leaving Marisa and Reimu to glare silently at her as she disappeared.

Reimu sighed in frustration. "Argh. I always hate dealing with their crew, they're such a pain."

Marisa nodded in agreement. "Almost as bad as the lunarians, huh? Do ya think what she said at the end there meant anythin' or was she just screwin' with us?"

Crossing her arms, Reimu replied "I don't know. But right now, I don't care. I don't like taking that vampire at her word, but I can't get in to take a look for myself. I could disable this barrier, but it'd take time, and more effort than I'm willing to give. For now, we'll have to trust that they have it handled, and that they really are only doing it to protect their own."

Marisa shrugged nonchalantly. "Even if there WAS a threat like that out there, I think we could probably handle it, yeah?"

At this, Reimu thought back to the Lunarians. Her gut was telling her that something was wrong, and she simply replied "I'm not sure. I guess we'll see." With that, Marisa and Reimu flew off.

---

From outside the domes, behind a nearby tree, a figure stood. "Damn it. I knew they weren't going to just keep their noses out of it after that. These damn barriers, if I could just get through!" The figure growled, then a grin came across their face. "Oh well. I have plenty of time. I'll wait them out as long as I need to. They can't stay in there forever." With that, the figure slinked off, deeper into the woods.

 

[DragonManipulator372]

It had been almost a week since the Scarlet Devil Mansion had entered lockdown, and things had started to sour. Remilia, Flandre and Sakuya were sitting in the main room, with Remilia holding a cup of tea, Sakuya standing by her side. Opposite her, Flandre had a pouty face, and her arms were crossed.

"Remiiiiii!" Flandre whined. "Can we open up the mansion again?"

"No, Flan." Remilia said simply, sipping her tea.

"But I'm booooored..." Flan kept complaining. "And hungryyyyy. We have food that tastes good but it doesn't make me feel full at all!"

"Flan, I've told you this before. We can't go out and get blood until we know for sure that it's safe outside."

Flan grumbled and replied "I don't understaaaand. If anyone comes I can just make them go boom and then we'll be safe for sure, right?"

Remilia sighed. "You know I said already that's not going to work. The person attacking us is too strong, even for me, Flan. Even for you."

"I don't believe you. I can destroy anything! Nothing is stronger than that!" Flandre grouched.

"Oh? And if that's so, how did you end up losing not just once, but twice to the shrine maiden and her friend?" Remilia asked nonchalantly.

"That's not fair! They cheated! It doesn't count if you cheat!" Flan shouted.

"Stop being petty, Flandre. They beat you fair and square, just like they beat me."

Flan was silent for a time, then said "So you're a coward, sis?"

Remilia's eyes shot open in a glare at Flandre. "Flandre. Watch your tongue."

"I won't!!!" Flandre yelled. "I'm not scared! Of you, or these bad guys! You never win when we play, Sis, and you know it! I'm stronger than you!"

Remilia's teeth clenched. "Flandre. Enough."

"If you're so scared, you should make all these barriers go away and let me just destroy everything!! I don't care how strong they are, I'll win!!" Flandre kept shouting.

At last, Remilia's composure broke. "Do you want Meiling to DIE, Flan?! Is that what you want? For Meiling to get eaten and DIE? And never play with you again? Never tell you another bedtime story, never plant any more flowers?!"

Flandre's eyes widened, and her face scrunched up, tears welling in her eyes. "No... I just-"

"Then go to your room and shut up until we're done! If you care about Meiling, then go in the basement and just WAIT!!" Remilia bellowed.

There was silence for a time, and Flandre sniffed quietly. Remilia's eyes widened as she realized what she'd said. Before she could say anything else, Flandre looked Remilia in the eyes and choked out "You're a stupid idiot, sis. I hope you get hit by the sun and disappear. You're a coward, and you shouldn't be the one in charge, it should be ME!" Flandre sobbed, before getting up and running away.

Remilia's breath caught in her throat. "Wait. Wait, I didn't mean that. Flan, I'm sorry! Flan, come back! Flan!!" But Flandre had already disappeared.

Remilia set her tea down and sat forward in the couch, placing her head in her hands. "I didn't... mean it..." She whispered, her own eyes becoming wet.

Sakuya's face grew concerned, and she sat down next to Remilia, who quickly buried her face against Sakuya's shoulder. "Mistress..."

"I already know, Sakuya. Just say it, I must be the worst sister ever." Remilia managed, a lump rising in her throat.

Sakuya was silent, then sighed. "I don't believe that's true, Remi. Perhaps you didn't display it in the most appropriate way, but..." She gazed up at the ceiling. "The fact that you're going this far to protect not just Meiling, but all of us - including Flan - I think you're a wonderful sister. It's clear you care about the young mistress very, very much. If you would like, I could offer some of my blood to you and Miss Flandre."

Remilia shook her head, wiping her eyes. "No. You already do more than enough for us. We can't ask that of you on top of-" She gestured around the room. "All this. I don't know what to do other than hold out and resist my hunger. I'm hungry as well, but I can't show weakness right now. Flandre needs to see that I'm being strong, otherwise she'll start falling apart."

Remilia's fist tightened into a ball. "Damn this oomukade!" She growled, slamming her fist on the table. "If it would just show itself already, we could figure out what to do next. But it's playing with us. I have a feeling it knows that our resources are limited, and now it's just waiting us out. Eventually, sooner or later, we WILL have to feed."

"If I may, mistress." Sakuya nudged. "Is it really necessary for all of us to stay here?"

Remilia's gaze turned back to Sakuya. "What do you mean?"

"The oomukade is targeting Meiling. Therefore, there's no need for you or the young mistress to remain in this mansion. Miss Patchouli, Koakuma, and myself could remain here while you refuel."

Remilia considered Sakuya's offer, and was about to agree, but then another thought came. "...No."

Sakuya tilted her head. "No, Milady?"

"No." Remilia repeated. "Meiling is a dragon and she'd still lose to this oomukade. If any of us went outside for any reason, it would be far too easy to capture us, hold us hostage, and have Meiling exchange her own life for our safety. And Meiling wouldn't listen if we told her to forget about us. She would put us first, always."

Sakuya's expression darkened. "I hadn't considered that. Very astute, Milady... And very unfortunate."

Remilia folded her hands in front of her, and took a deep breath. "We're in check. One wrong move and it'll be checkmate. Whoever this oomukade is, they've already thought of everything. We might ask for help from the other youkai and gods of Gensokyo, but if these centipedes are strong enough to take down a dragon, I can't think of anyone who would be of enough help. Save..." Her face drew into a scowl. "The Hakurei shrine maiden."

"But?" Sakuya inquired.

"If we were to seek her help, we would have to reveal Meiling's true nature to her, and her response is unpredictable. Knowing that there's a living, breathing, fully-grown dragon here, in the heart of Gensokyo? She might go to the gap youkai. Or to the oni hermit. She would certainly rid us of the oomukade, but it's highly likely she'd exterminate or seal away Meiling, too." Remilia bit her thumb. "Curses. Curses, curses, curses."

Sakuya paused, then asked thoughtfully "Would we really need to reveal Meiling to the shrine maiden, though, Mistress?"

Remilia turned to look at Sakuya. "Beg pardon?"

"We needn't mention Meiling at all, to be blunt. Consider the nature of what we're up against. Oomukade eat dragons, this is true. But just knowing that doesn't automatically reveal any of us as a dragon."

Remilia, now intrigued, asked "What are you suggesting, exactly?"

"We know that they eat dragons, but we also know that, to do this, they possess immense magical power. I don't feel the need to bring up the relevance of their diet to our mansion at all; simply telling the shrine maiden that there is a youkai loose powerful enough to kill a dragon should set her on the right path, while not incriminating us in any way. We would simply be giving her a friendly tip. And with luck, she would tell the gap youkai. She can tell whoever she likes, the more firepower the merrier." Sakuya gave a knowing smile. "But we remain completely unrelated to the incident at hand, save for a tipoff."

Remilia thought long and hard about Sakuya's plan. She tried to find any major flaws in it, but the more she thought, the more it made sense. "True. Very true. The oomukade has nothing to do with us. We're just concerned for Gensokyo. As an act of good faith." Remilia grinned wickedly. "Quite the intelligent plan, Sakuya."

Sakuya bowed deeply. "You are too kind, Milady."

Remilia stood up, and began to pace the room. "In return, we can ask for blood donations. What's a little bit of blood compared to the safety and security of all of Gensokyo?"

"An excellent argument, Milady." Sakuya responded.

Remilia put her hands on hips and announced "Then! It is decided. Sakuya."

Sakuya nodded. "Yes, Milady."

"Go now, and request the shrine maiden's assistance. Tell her to spread the word that the threat is now too great to ignore, that the very balance of Gensokyo is at stake. And that we were the first ones to notice."

Sakuya bowed again. "It shall be done, Milady." With that, she vanished.

Remilia stride to the window, her fanged grin growing wider. "It's time to go on the offensive. This battle has begun, and we will not rest until victory is ours. It's time to call in some pest control."

---

Reimu was sitting inside the shrine today, along with Marisa and another girl. The girl was clad in white shorts with red patterning, and a shirt that was the inverse: red with white patterning. Her hair was long, green and curled at the bottom, and she wore a simple pair of sandals on her feet. Her name was Aunn Komano, and she was the primary guardian of the Hakurei shrine.

"Geez. It's hot today." Reimu complained.

Marisa chuckled. "Aw, come on. It ain't that bad. Besides, ya got shade to sit in, don't ya? And tea to drink. I don't think ya have any right to complain."

"Says you." Reimu retorted without much effort. "How are you not dying in those clothes?" She asked, eyes running over Maria's black and white outfit.

Marisa grinned, and stuck out her tongue. "Wouldn't you like to know! Besides I think ya should be more worried about yer dog than me. She doesn't look like she's doin' too well."

Reimu turned to look at Aunn, who was spread out on the floor, unmoving. She nudged Aunn with her foot, and Aunn groaned quietly.

"She's fine." Reimu replied, taking sip of tea.

"Gosh. Ya could cool the shrine by yerself with that frozen heart'a yers." Marisa snickered. "Look at poor Aunn, so hot she's barely movin'. Shouldn't you get her some water or somethin'?"

"She'll be fine. If she can withstand a danmaku battle with me, she can take a little heat." Reimu insisted. "Besides, it's not like there's any way to cool her down right now anyway. Though if you'd like to go out and find Cirno..." She suggested.

Marisa laid back on the tatami-mat floor, and closed her eyes. "Nope! Not a chance." she announced with a grin.

Reimu glared at her, grunting in frustration. "I should start kicking you out whenever you come over."

"But yer not gonna. I'm such good company, to kick me out would leave ya with nothin' to do and no one to talk to. So you keep me around."

"You keep telling yourself that. Maybe one day it'll be true." Reimu grumbled, about to take another gulp of tea.

Suddenly, Sakuya appeared out of thin air, standing over the table that the three were at. Marisa and Reimu both yelled in shock, with Reimu spilling the tea on her dress.

"Good afternoon." Sakuya cordially greeted them.

Reimu stood up, and glanced down at her clothes. "Good afternoon?! That's all?! Look what you made me do, you scared the hell out of both of us!"

Sakuya shrugged and replied. "I apologize. However, there is a more pressing matter at the moment."

Marisa, regaining her composure, joked "More important than makin' Reimu angry? Better be somethin' good!"

Reimu glared at Marisa, then returned her gaze to Sakuya. "What do you want?!" She snarled, crossing her arms.

"Do you recall the powerful youkai we mentioned to you last week?" Sakuya asked.

"Yeah, so what? I thought we weren't important enough to know?" Reimu grumbled sarcastically.

Sakuya nodded. "That's correct. However, the situation has changed. We are now willing to inform you of the danger, as well as request your help, both in eliminating the threat and encouraging the other residents of Gensokyo to do the same."

Marisa interrupted. "Wait, wait, wait. So now ya WANT our help?" She laughed coldly. "Well, it's gonna take more'n just a simple 'Please help' to get us to save yer behinds. What's in it for us?"

"You get to not die." Sakuya replied curtly.

Marisa pushed her head forward incredulously, crossing her arms. "Scuse me?"

"You still don't seem to understand, so allow me to elaborate further." Sakuya stated. "This youkai is a threat to all of Gensokyo, and may very well be the most powerful youkai you have ever faced. If you do not help us, we will all end up dead."

Reimu and Marisa exchanged glances with each other. "I thought you said Meiling was the one in danger?" Reimu asked.

Damn it. We shouldn't have told them that last week, I hadn't thought they'd still remember. Sakuya thought. Aloud, she kept her composure, and said "It seems Meiling angered someone that was out of her league, and so yes, the youkai was targeting Meiling initially. However, as I said previously, the situation has changed. The youkai in question has decided to go on a rampage and take out their anger against not just Meiling, but all of Gensokyo. This would not normally be a problem, if the youkai in question wasn't so dangerous."

Reimu's arms were still crossed, and she closed her eyes. Something is off about this. I can feel it. My gut keeps insisting there's more to this situation than the Scarlet people are letting on. They're not telling me everything... But why? Reimu took a deep breath, then loudly said "Fine. What's the name of this youkai?"

"They are an oomukade. A giant centipede." Sakuya responded.

Marisa, flabbergasted, looked at Reimu. "Fine? Reimu, you're okay with this?"

"No." Reimu replied, uncrossing her arms and walking over to retrieve her purification rod, which was nearby. She turned back to Sakuya and walked back over, rod in tow. She stared at Sakuya, reading her face as best she could. "No, I'm not okay with it. In fact, I think this whole situation smells rotten. There's something you're not telling me, and I don't know what or why. Frankly, if it were up to me, I'd leave you and your people to figure it out on your own." Reimu glanced at Marisa, then sighed. "But unfortunately, if you're telling the truth, no matter which parts of it, it's not up to me. If it's anything like the Lunarians, this is bigger than a petty argument."

She walked past Sakuya, out into the sun. Without looking back, she said ominously "But when all is said and done, I am going to demand the full truth. Keep that in mind. And one more thing."

Sakuya waited.

"Don't get in my way." With that, Reimu pushed off, taking to the sky.

Marisa watched her go, then lowered her gaze to Sakuya. "What the hell is going on?" She murmured. "What's so important that you can't tell us?"

Sakuya gave Marisa a cold glare, then vanished.

Marisa stared at the spot where she had disappeared for a few seconds, then walked outside and got on her broom.

Under her breath, she muttered "Oomukade, huh... Great. Now my guts are starting to churn too. Damn it." With that, she kicked off into the sky.

---

"She's such a dummy! Idiot! Stupid scaredy-cat Sis!" Flandre sobbed, resting her head on Meiling's lap. They were in Flandre's bedroom, which was a mess. Ripped stuffed animals and stuffing were everywhere, several shelves had been knocked off the wall and snapped in half, and there were craters scattered on every wall.

Meiling stroked Flandre's hair. "There, there Flan. It'll be okay... You and Remi will make up and be friends in no time! I'm sure of it! So, please, dry those tears for me. I can't stand to see your cute face all messed up like that..."

Flandre sniffled, and wiped her tears away, still giving a quiet hic every so often. "If S-sis loves me so m-much... Why would she be mean to me like that? I don't get it."

Meiling sighed in a defeated way. "Flan... Sometimes, when we love people a whole lot, we have to do things that may seem unfair. Things that make us upset, or sad, or make us feel trapped or alone. I know you might not believe it, but I bet Remi hated saying those things just as much as you hated hearing them."

Flandre sat up, and took hold of Meiling's hand, looking away. "R-really?"

Meiling nodded. "Really. You see, Remi is in a hard place right now. She's hungry too, but she knows that if she leaves, or you leave, one of you might get really hurt. That's why she has to be so careful."

"Is the person attacking us really that strong?" Flandre murmured. "Strong enough that my booms won't even stop them?"

"Yes, Flan, they're very strong. Sad as it may be, even you wouldn't be able to beat them. And while I'm sure everyone in the mansion would appreciate it if you were to try, they also know you would get very hurt, too. We love you, Flan, and so we don't want to see anyone hurt you, no matter how big or small the injury."

Flan put her hands in her lap. "But... I don't want anyone to hurt you guys, either."

Meiling smiled kindly. "That's so, so brave of you, Flan. It really is, and I'm happy to have someone so powerful looking out for me. If it were any other way, I'd let you protect me as much as you wanted." Meiling's smile shrank slightly, and she continued "But this is the one time where you have to let us protect you. No matter what."

Flandre fell silent, as if deep in thought. "Okay." She finally mumbled. "If there's really someone that big and bad out there... I'll wait." She glared up at Meiling, defiantly. "But I want you to protect me. Nobody else."

Meiling smiled. "No problem, Flan. It's a promise." Flandre stuck out her pinkie finger, and Meiling wrapped her own around Flan's.

Flan's face finally broke into a smile, and she asked tentatively: "Can I lay on your lap for a little longer?"

Meiling simply responded by patting her legs, and Flan rested her head on them, closing her eyes. Right now, right here. This is all that matters. Meiling thought to herself. No matter what happens... just relax and enjoy this moment, Flan. Here... With me.