[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.

 

[DragonManipulator372]

As Sakuya returned to the mansion and headed back into the tunnels, she sighed. I greatly dislike asking Hakurei for help, and I'm sure Lady Remilia does as well, but at this stage, we have no other options. Also, her intuition is too sharp for our own good. When this is over, things might get messy. She shook her head. Never mind that for now, though. At least she's willing to help.

Sakuya made her way upstairs, and into the living room. "It is done, Milady."

Remilia was sitting on the couch, and Flandre was sitting on the opposite side, her face once again puffed up in a pout. Between the two, Meiling stood, her arms behind her back. "Welcome back, Sakuya." Remilia sighed, a hint of aggravation to her voice.

Sakuya glanced back and forth between Remilia and Flandre, and asked "Did I... miss something important, Milady?"

"No. I'm just having a talk with Flan. Please, sit." Remilia patted the couch next to her.

"Milady, I couldn't—"

"Just sit, Sakuya. It's fine, you've done enough for now."

After a moment of hesitation, Sakuya bowed. "Yes, Milady," She replied, taking a seat next to Remilia.

Remilia turned her gaze back to Flandre, and said, hopefully "I'm sorry Flan. I don't know how many more times I have to say it, but I am sorry. I never should have said those things, and I understand why you're upset and why you feel like you're stuck here." Flandre said nothing, still pouting with her arms crossed. "I promise, within the next few days, you should be able to come and go as you like once more. We've asked the Hakurei shrine maiden to help, and she's going to keep Meiling safe, okay?"

Flandre mumbled "Does she know about Meiling?"

"No, Flan. We didn't tell her anything. All she knows is that there's a dangerous youkai running around. Meiling's secret is safe."

"For now, Milady." Sakuya interrupted.

Remilia turned to look at Sakuya. "I'm sorry?"

"I was successful in enlisting Hakurei's help, but there's something I'd like to discuss with you, privately." She said, glancing at Flan.

"You're not gonna make me go away AGAIN, are you?!" Flan yelled. "That's not fair! I wanna know what's happening too!"

"Shhhhh, Flan. No, I'm not going to do that to you again." Remilia reassured her. To Sakuya, she said "I'm sorry, Sakuya, but at this time, Flandre deserves to know everything we know. It's the least I can do after how I acted."

"Very well, Milady." Sakuya took a deep breath, then continued "I fear that, when this whole affair is over, we may still have a problem."

"What problem?" Meiling spoke up.

"Unfortunately... Hakurei's intuition is far too sharp for us to simply walk away from this. Even as I spoke to her, I could feel her suspicion. She told me, up front, that after she takes care of the oomukade, she will demand the truth, all of it, from us. She knows that we're hiding something, but I don't believe she knows just what yet. However, I don't believe that matters. Even were we to lie, I doubt she would relent until we tell her everything."

"Damn it." Remilia growled. "Sometimes she's helpful, sometimes she's an agonizing thorn in our sides. We have to start thinking of something now, before the affair is finished, or when she does come calling, we'll have nothing to offer."

"About that, Milady." Sakuya sighed, knowing that what she was about to say wouldn't go over well. However, it still needed to be said, so she pressed on. "I don't think we should lie about Meiling any longer."

All eyes turned to Sakuya, and Meiling looked angry for the first time. "Excuse me?" She asked incredulously.

"Sakuya, what would possess you to say such a thing? That is the one thing we absolutely cannot do, at any cost." Remilia asked, concern on her face.

Seeing Meiling's reaction, Sakuya's heart sank slightly, but still she continued. "As you said, Milady, the shrine maiden's response is unpredictable — but that doesn't necessarily mean it would be negative. Hakurei comes in contact with any number of powerful gods and youkai on a regular basis, such as oni and tengu. There may be a good chance she doesn't care, and treats Meiling the same as any youkai—"

"I'm a DRAGON, Sakuya!" Meiling shot back, her voice beginning to rise. "I'm not some run-of-the-mill oni or tengu or even a god! My species is the most powerful and ancient one in existence, and you'd have us just reveal that to everyone?!"

"I —" Sakuya tried, feeling the situation beginning to spin out of control. "I fully understand that, Meiling, but you know how Hakurei is with other youkai, she regularly throws parties, some of which you've attended—"

"When I was masquerading as a regular youkai, Sakuya! Not as my real self! Not as a dragon, not as a divine being!" Meiling growled, advancing toward Sakuya.

Remilia stood up and warned "Meiling—"

"With all due respect, Milady, please stay out of this!" Meiling snapped sharply.

At this, Sakuya lost her patience. "How dare you speak to the Mistress in such a way! You are far out of line, control yourself!"

"SHUT UP, Sakuya!" Meiling screamed, a rainbow glow beginning to surround her. Sakuya's eyes widened, and she took a step back.

"Wait. Wait, Meiling, please. I'm sorry." Sakuya stammered.

"Meiling! Stand down, that is a direct order!" Remilia yelled.

The rainbow glow around Meiling sharply intensified, and rainbow scales began to appear on her face. At this, Remilia's eyes widened, and she wanted to say something, but her chest tightened, and she couldn't seem to breathe or get the words out. Sweat began to trace down her face, and Remilia collapsed back onto the couch, scooting as far as she could away from Meiling.

Sakuya continued backing up, and tears of fear began to fill her eyes. "P-Please, Meiling, I'm sorry, forget what I said, please—"

"You want to put my life in danger?" Meiling roared, her voice gaining a deeper layer, as if two voices were speaking at once. "You want me to be revealed, to everyone?! To the gap youkai? To the hermit, to the gods?! How dare YOU suggest such a thing!" More scales began to emerge on Meiling's face, and her fingernails began to grow longer. "After all these years, out of all the time I've been faithful to this family, and to everyone in this household, you want me to sign my own DEATH WARRANT?!" Meiling bellowed, small horns beginning to emerge from her forehead.

"Meiling!" a voice shouted. Meiling turned, and saw Flandre's face, filled with fear, tears pouring down her cheeks. Meiling's eyes widened. "Please... Please, Meiling, stop! I don't like you like this. I don't want you to hurt Sakuya and Sis, I know you don't want to either, please, just please stop..." She whispered, struggling not to sob.

Meiling stared at Flandre, then looked down at her hand, seeing more scales erupt from her palm. She took another look around the room— at Remilia, who sat terrified in the corner of the couch. At Sakuya, whose eyes were filled with a deep, primal fear, tears streaming from her eyes, breathing heavily. "N-no... No. No, no wait. No, this isn't what I wanted." Meiling whispered. "Sakuya, please, I didn't mean to—"

As Meiling reached for Sakuya, she suddenly disappeared and reappeared further away, back pressed against the unlit hearth, watch still in hand. The glow around Meiling faded, and the scales and horns gradually shrunk and disappeared. "Everyone — I-I never wanted to hurt you, I didn't want to make you afraid, I just—" Her body trembled. With one more look at everyone's faces, her heart dropped like a stone, and she took a step back, before running away.

There was a long, unpleasant silence for a few minutes. Remilia was the first to speak, clutching her chest. "This fear... it hurts. I've never felt this before. I've never felt so weak and powerless. Sakuya-" She looked over at her maid, who had dropped her watch to the floor, and was staring, catatonic, at the ground, her head in her hands. Remilia felt sickness rising in her throat, and she quickly dashed off to the nearest bathroom.

Flandre remained right where she sat, and she stared in the direction Meiling had run off in. "Meiling, please... Don't do what I think you're going to do." She leapt over the back of the couch and ran as fast as she could, down the stairs to the underground tunnels.

---

Meiling was running as fast as her legs would carry her, away from the mansion, away from the Misty Lake, away from her home. What have I done? kept repeating in her mind, and she pushed herself to run faster, tears flying behind her. For the first time, she didn't know what to do or where to go. She had no idea what was next, and she didn't care. All she knew was that she had to get as far away from the people she loved as possible. For almost an hour, she ran, never stopping or slowing down. When she finally caught her breath, she saw that she had arrived at the bank of the Sanzu River. Slowly, as if in a trance, she began to walk towards the water's edge. After threatening everyone like that... terrifying everyone, even Flan... She thought, taking step after step.

"Woah there!" A voice called, briefly snapping her out of it. "You don't look dead! Best keep away from there!"

Meiling turned to see a woman standing a few meters away. Her hair was bright red, and two ornaments kept part of her hair up in pigtails. She wore a a blue vest with a white dress underneath, and around her waist was an obi with a coin in the center. In her hands, she carried a large scythe, its blade becoming wavier towards the point. As she approached Meiling, she whistled a cheerful tune.

"Komachi Onozuka..." Meiling breathed. The woman, Komachi, was a shinigami - a god of death who ferried souls across the river.

Komachi grinned at Meiling, now standing close enough for conversation. "Can't take living people across the river unless it's an emergency! And it doesn't seem like there is one right now, so you're gonna have to wait!" She chuckled.

Meiling walked slowly towards Komachi, and knelt before her. "Please. End my life."

Komachi's eyes widened. "What now?!"

"I hurt the ones I love the most. I made them fear and resent me. I don't have any further reason to live." Meiling whispered.

Komachi stared at Meiling, as if reading her. Then she sighed. "Come sit down." She said, walking over to a patch of grass and patting next to her.

"Please, I don't want to talk, just slay me already." Meiling insisted.

"Come. Sit." Komachi repeated, now as an order. Meiling paused, then walked over and sat down next to her. With a smile, Komachi leaned back in the grass, and closed her eyes, placing her arms behind her head. "Now, let's start from the top. I'm not going to oblige your request. For starters, killing a dragon isn't in my job description."

Meiling stood up. "Who told you?!" She asked desperately.

"Calm down, calm down. Nobody told me. I can just tell by looking at your soul. Sit down and relax." Komachi encouraged. With minor hesitation, Meiling seated herself again. "Now. I can obviously tell you're in a lot of pain, but unfortunately, taking your own life — or encouraging others to take it — that's not the answer. It rarely is. From what I can tell, you love these people very much, of course. But I think you're being too hasty." Komachi sighed peacefully, staring up at the blue sky. "There's so much more to enjoy left for you. So many experiences you have yet to have, so many good memories you have yet to make. And I don't think you're giving your friends enough credit."

Meiling turned to look at her. "What do you mean?"

"I don't know who it is, but it sounds like you've loved these people for a very, very long time." Komachi continued with a smile. "Just guessing, of course, but shinigami intuition is pretty good about these things." She added. "Now, while right now, things may seem bad, or it may seem like you've hurt these people... is that really the case?"

"What do you mean?" Meiling repeated.

"Well. Let's look at it this way. If you've been together for such a long time... do you really think that just one little incident would end that love for good?"

Meiling sighed. "It wasn't just one little incident, though. What I did — how I acted — was completely monstrous and unacceptable."

"Even so!" Komachi insisted. "I don't think you should give up that easily. This is a test of love. Love that never gets tested is bound to fall apart, because it's never been forged properly. Things can't always be perfect between you and your friends, coworkers, or even family." Komachi took another deep, relaxed sigh. "But what matters is choosing to keep that love, and strengthen it. Cast it and polish it. Rather than throwing it away like scrap metal, and starting over. The more that is thrown at a well-forged weapon, the more weathered it gets, this is true. But..." Komachi opened her eyes, and turned to smile at Meiling. "That just means it needs to be remade. Reforged, strengthened and healed. Oh, sure, there may be a few scars left over from previous wounds. But they're part of that sword's character now. Not flaws that need to be erased."

Meiling remained silent, pulling her knees in and staring at her feet.

"The stronger your love becomes, the harder it is to break, snap, melt or shatter. And eventually, even a dragon's fire won't be enough to destroy such feelings." Komachi continued. "That you feel this way doesn't mean that love is over. It means you need to return to the smith, reforge it, and emerge stronger and more connected than ever before. Too many weapons are left unfinished because they're not perfect on arrival. But nothing ever is. Not even a dragon. It takes time."

Meiling felt tears welling in her eyes. "That's impossible. I can't think of any way that they'd forgive me for acting so out of turn."

"Really? I think they're less scared and angry AT you, and more scared and worried FOR you." Komachi suggested. "Seeing a loved one lose their composure can be a frightening thing, and it may put a strain on the love that binds you to them. But more often than not, the anger isn't directed at you. There's always something deeper. No one wakes up one day and decides to be evil." Komachi's smile faded, and she sighed, closing her eyes again. "They have to be thoroughly beaten and broken, first. So the question is, do you let this act beat you down, allowing resentment and malice to grow in your heart? Or do you take the broken remains, cast and fire them, and create something incredible?"

Meiling thought for a long time. Komachi's words made sense, they did, but... would they really still love her? Even seeing her like that? Seeing her enraged and dangerous, hateful and full of resentment?

As if reading Meiling's mind, Komachi pressed "Whether the love does or doesn't get destroyed, well. That comes later. But a brick of metal doesn't do anything just sitting there. You won't know what it's supposed to be until you actually start working with it. You can't break or ruin a weapon that hasn't even been cut from the steel yet."

At this, Meiling's resolve hardened. "If that is the case...I would rather accept whatever comes than let the love I have for my family fade. At the very least, I can let them know my true feelings, regardless of what comes next."

Komachi smiled, and simply replied "That's the way." As Meiling got up to leave, Komachi called "By the way, you know how the Sanzu River works, right?"

Meiling turned, confused. "The distance to the other side gets longer the more sinful you were, right?"

"That's right. I wanted to tell you." Komachi stood up, and stretched, before giving Meiling a sly grin. "If I HAD taken your life today... Your ride across would only be about thirty seconds." Komachi picked up her scythe and began walking away, picking up her whistling where she left off.

Meiling watched her go, tears welling in her eyes. She bowed towards Komachi and shouted "Thank you for everything!" Komachi raised her hand without turning back, and soon enough, vanished into the fog. Meiling turned, wiping her eyes, and her face growing determined. "Whatever happens... I have to take full responsibility. Any less would be disgraceful." With that, she began to walk back towards the Misty Lake.

---

At the Scarlet Devil Mansion, Remilia was pacing back and forth. In front of her, Sakuya appeared. "Milady, I cannot find her anywhere. I've asked many people, but no one has seen her. I'm beginning to get worried."

"As am I." Remilia breathed, shaking her head. "We're a disgrace. I'm the mistress of the Scarlet Devil Mansion. I'm supposed to be unshakable, fearless. Yet when Meiling began to shift, we all cowered like children. Terrified of what she truly is. How could we treat her like that? After all she's done for us, her true nature gives us pause?"

"No, Milady. It is my fault for suggesting such a thing. I should have known it would be a sensitive issue for Meiling. Frankly, I'm not sure how I came to such a conclusion. My judgement was..." Sakuya closed her eyes. "Misguided."

Flandre shook her head. "No, Sakuya! You wanted everyone to see Meiling as who she is! That was a really kind thing to do! People shouldn't be afraid of Meiling, she's no different than the rest of us! Even if Meiling got scary at the end, I think it's a good idea! I mean, it's what we all hoped for someday, right? That we could show everyone how pretty and strong Meiling truly is as a dragon? We wanted to be proud of her for being so brave, right?"

At this, Remilia and Sakuya smiled. "You're absolutely right, Flan. Meiling deserves better, she shouldn't have to hide from the world like this." Remilia agreed. "We should be proud of what she is and honored that she's willing to befriend us. To serve under us." Remilia paused, then growled "That does it. I don't care what Hakurei has to say. If she tries to hurt or exterminate Meiling I'll fight her to my last breath. No one attacks our family like this. Not even Reimu."

Flandre raised her hand. "Ooh! Ooh! Me too! I wanna pay Reimu back for cheating last time! I want a rematch!"

Sakuya nodded. "And should it come to that, I shall simply whisk Meiling far away until the situation cools. I'm sure any of the youkai societies at Youkai Mountain would be glad to take her in temporarily."

Remilia clapped her hands together. "Then it's settled! As soon as we find Meiling, we'll-" She paused, as footsteps could suddenly be heard nearby. "Um. Is that Patchouli?"

Sakuya shook her head, gazing in the direction of the sound. "No, Milady. Miss Patchouli is still recovering from fortifying the mansion. Miss Koakuma is there with her, and the fairy maids are off cleaning the library."

Remilia glared, Gungnir shimmering to life in her hand. "Then who-"

The footsteps paused, and then, out from behind the archway — Meiling stood. Sakuya gasped, putting her hands to her mouth, as tears began to well in her eyes. Flandre fell silent, her face twisting up as she began to cry. Remilia stared at Meiling, her breathing growing unsteady. Before any of them could say anything, Meiling prostrated herself on the floor in front of them, surprising all of them.

"Miladies." Meiling murmured. "I know that what I did, what I said, can never be forgiven. I was completely out of line, I threatened the very blood of this mansion, and I struck fear into the heart of the head of household. I don't ask for forgiveness, but I do offer up my life as a meager compensation for my actions. Please, slay me however you see fit."

There was a pregnant pause. Then, Remilia walked over, stopping in front of Meiling, who waited. Then: "Please lift your head, Meiling." Meiling's eyes widened and she looked up at Remilia, who had tears streaming down her face.

"Milady—" Meiling whispered.

"You're an idiot, a moron, a nincompoop." Remilia sniffled. "You horrible excuse for a servant. You had us worried sick. How dare you leave this household without my permission." She was trying to be strict, but her voice wouldn't stop wavering, and she couldn't stop the tears. "Do you think that little of our protection? That we're not worth at least that much to you?"

Tears welled up in Meiling's own eyes. "No, Milady. You and everyone in this mansion are worth more than the most precious gemstones in the world to me. That is why I left. After instilling such fear in the hearts of my family—"

"Shut up. Just shut up." Remilia choked out. "I won't hear any more. The blame lies on Flandre, Sakuya and I. All this time, we've known what you are. We've been supportive of you in every way. And yet, seeing the vestiges of your true form, we acted like rotten cowards before them. We feared the very person we were trying so hard to protect. Our behavior was abhorrent and flies in the face of everything we've said we love about you. So please..." Remilia sobbed. "Raise your head, Meiling. Stand with pride. No one should judge you for who you are, least of all us. You are a valuable member of this family, and we should never, ever have acted like this towards you."

Meiling sat there, stunned, before hoarsely saying "Milady. Mistress, Remi. I can't accept this. This wasn't what I was expecting. I should be punished, I should be executed for my actions!"

Sakuya spoke. "If we did such a thing, we'd have to cut open our own stomachs next. For there would be no further honor in this household." She sighed, wiping tears away.

Meiling sunk to the floor, gently pounding her fists on it. "Why...Why are you treating me like this? I don't deserve it. I've done a horrible, unforgivable thing! I've lost my temper and threatened the ones I love! How can you continue, even now, to treat me with such kindness?"

Flandre walked over, and knelt next to Meiling, gently taking her hands. Meiling's gaze rose to look at Flandre. "Because we love you, Meiling. That's all that matters." She said softly. "That's all that ever mattered."

Meiling began sniffling, then sobbing unabashedly, as Flandre pulled her into a tight hug. "Flan... Remi, Sakuya...I can never, never in a thousand lifetimes, ever repay you—"

Remilia smiled, wiping away her tears now. "You idiot. You already did...just by coming back to us."

At this, Meiling had no other answer besides continuing to weep.

Remilia turned to Sakuya. "Sakuya."

Sakuya bowed. "Yes, Milady."

"When this is over, we are going directly to the Hakurei Shrine. All of us."

"Yes, Milady."

"Whatever happens there, whatever Hakurei says... We'll face it together. No matter the cost."

Sakuya smiled. "Even if you had said no, I would have gone there myself, Milady."

Remilia grinned, and nodded. "Good. However, we can save the rest of the tears for later." Meiling and Flandre stood, and turned to Remilia. "We still have a problem. That oomukade is still out there, and until we know for sure it's not going to attack Meiling anymore, the barriers remain."

"Yes, Milady." Sakuya bowed. "Shall I contact several of the more powerful figures of Gensokyo, Milady?"

Remilia shook her head. "Not at this time. If Hakurei already has questions, Matara, Yakumo and Ibaraki will needle us endlessly. We will tell Reimu, and then whatever she does with that information is at her discretion. For now, all we can do is trust that Meiling is safe as long as Hakurei is on the move. She'll likely enlist the help of Margatroid again, as well as Eientei, Kirisame, Kochiya and the Netherworld. With these, I currently have no problem. She may also reach out to you Sakuya, so at that time, be prepared to act. Cooperate with her, same as always."

Sakuya bowed again. "Yes, Milady."

Remilia turned. "Meiling."

"Yes, Milady?" Meiling managed.

"If you ever leave without telling me again, I WILL kill you." She joked with a smile.

Meiling grinned. "Yes, Milady!"

---

"Where are we even going with this, Reimu?" Marisa moaned as they flew over the Forest of Magic.

"I told you. First thing's first, we're going to Kasen. She'll yell and grumble at me, but she'll likely help us out." Reimu responded. "After that, we're gathering the usual people. Sanae, Reisen, Alice, etc. Between Moriya and Eientei, plus Tewi's informant network, we'll have an easier time. I'm also gonna get in contact with Mamizou, since she has influence that reaches pretty far with her tanuki, too."

Marisa grinned wildly. "Pullin' out all the stops, huh? Callin' in everyone? What if they're busy? What if they don't wanna help? What then?"

Reimu sighed. "It doesn't matter. If they're busy, too bad. This is for Gensokyo. And if they don't wanna help me..." She growled. "I'll just kick their ass in danmaku... and make them help."

 

[DragonManipulator372]

"An oomukade?"

Reimu and Marisa were standing in front of another woman in the Human Village. She had short, pink hair with two white bun-holders on either side of her head. One of her arms had a cuff with a chain, the other was wrapped in bandages from fingers to shoulder. She wore a white dress with a red cloth running down the front, and a green skirt. Her name was Kasen Ibaraki, and she was a hermit that typically checked in with Reimu to see if she was training. Right now though, her arms were crossed as she stared at Reimu. "An oomukade. Here, loose on the surface in Gensokyo. Who told you this?" She asked suspiciously.

"The people over at the Scarlet Devil Mansion." Reimu replied. "From the sound of it, it's not something I can just ignore or walk away from, much as I'd like to let someone else handle it." She closed her eyes, crossing her own arms. "I don't fully buy their story. There's something wrong. Off. They're keeping something from me but I don't know what. But I'll find that out later. For now, if this youkai is as powerful as they suggested, we need to handle it, soon."
Kasen sighed. "And you believed them? That there really is an oomukade out here somewhere? Really, Reimu?"

At this Reimu's eyes opened, and she asked "What?"

Kasen shook her head in disbelief. "There haven't been any oomukade spotted here in Gensokyo for thousands of years. They are immensely powerful, yes, but wherever they are, IF they even still exist, it's not here. I believe they're playing a prank on you."

At this, Marisa snorted, trying not to laugh. Reimu glared at her. "What? What's so funny?"

"Oh, just the thought that ya really are gettin' played for a fool by those Scarlet people. It'd be pretty funny if they sent you on a wild goose chase just ta pop in at the end and say 'Sorry, we lied! Gotcha!'"

Reimu glanced back and forth between Kasen and Marisa. "W-well— I mean, they sounded pretty serious! And besides, why would they even do that?! If I do find out they're lying to me, they know I'll come down on them pretty hard!" She insisted. "It's not like I'm an idiot!"

At this, Marisa couldn't help but break out into laughter, and Reimu ignored her, and growled to Kasen "Even if they WERE lying, I'd be able to tell, anyway."
At this, Kasen narrowed her eyes. "And how's that, exactly?"

"Intuition. And while that may not sound like much, I'll remind you that my intuition has never failed me yet in an incident." Reimu replied.

"Woah, woah, woah, WHAT?" Marisa stopped laughing. "Scuse me, but I believe that in the first incident with Eientei, YOU attacked me? On yer 'intuition'?"

Reimu groaned. "That was ONE TIME! God, Marisa, we figured it out anyway, didn't we?" She turned back to Kasen. "Look. Their story smells rotten, but the one thing I'm sure they're telling the truth about is the oomukade. If they wanted to send me on a snipe hunt, that's fine, but something about that doesn't add up. Why would they use so much magical protection on their mansion just to pull an elaborate prank?" At this, Kasen closed her eyes, deep in thought. "Also, even if that WAS the reason, the only person in that mansion capable of that level of magic, that I know of, is Patchouli. And, reminder: She's vitamin-deficient and asthmatic." Reimu pointed out. "The level of strain those defenses placed on her body would, if not kill her, take her out of action for a long while. All this, just to play a prank on me?" She shook her head. "Say what you will about the Scarlet people, but at the very least, I've seen they wouldn't just overexert one of their people for a laugh. They care too much about each other to do that."

Kasen was silent for a time, then replied "Even if what you say is true, we have no idea where to even start looking. And if this oomukade DOES exist, we don't have time to search every nook and cranny of Gensokyo. It's a threat that has to be dealt with, swiftly. How exactly do you propose we locate such a youkai?"

Reimu sighed. "Much as I don't like it, I'm going to request the help of a lot of major figures in Gensokyo. Eientei has Tewi, and she knows every rabbit in the Bamboo Forest. Their information network isn't exactly small. Same with the tanuki — Mamizou has scouts everywhere, so if either the rabbits or the tanuki have seen something, we need to know. I'm also getting Sanae and Moriya, Youmu and Yuyuko, Eientei, and Marisa, here, to help. I did have one other thought on the way here, and I'm going to head over to Myouren first."

"Myouren?" Marisa inquired. "How come? How're they gonna help us?"

"Most of them can't. However, there's a certain rat I have in mind..." Reimu grumbled.

"Nazrin? I mean sure, she can find things pretty quick, but if it really has been that long, do ya think she'll actually be able to dowse fer a youkai that ain't been seen in ages?"

"I don't know. But I'm not ruling out any options or allies. We need all the help we can get."

"And if you DO find this oomukade?" Kasen pressed. "You couldn't win against the Lunarians. How, exactly, do you expect to defeat a youkai that hunts and eats dragons?"

At this, Reimu and Marisa turned to Kasen, their eyes growing round. "They... what?" Marisa murmured.

"Oh, gods." Kasen sighed, putting her hand to her head. "They didn't even tell you that much?" She glared at them. "Listen up. Oomukade are likely one of the most powerful youkai in existence. They are able to hunt, kill, and eat dragons because their power is so ridiculously obscene that most lesser dragons can't measure up. And the greater ones have a really hard time. You couldn't stand against the Lunarians. You most certainly will NOT be able to stand against an oomukade."

"That's not true!" Reimu interjected sourly. "I won against Lapislazuli, didn't I?"

"Because she was toying with you, Reimu!" Kasen shot back. "She would have absolutely destroyed you, and anyone who came against her, had she been completely serious." Reimu was silent, and Kasen growled "And NO, we're NOT calling the Goddess of Hell just to help us out with this."

"Why not?!" Reimu retorted. "It's a good plan!"

"Because of all the things she has on her plate, the last thing she needs on TOP of that is a dragon-eating youkai to kill."

"Alright, so what's your plan?!" Reimu jabbed at her. "If I'm so weak and I can't beat it, and you're not gonna let us talk to Hecatia, then who exactly are you planning to get to beat this youkai?"

"That's-" Kasen started, but then paused, putting her hand to her chin. "Um. Well, I mean-"

"Oh oh, looks like the student's become the master, eh?" Marisa taunted.

Kasen glared at her. "Fine. If you're bent on this then there's nothing I can do. Go talk to the people you're gonna talk to, but just be ready for what you're up against. I'll contact Eientei and the tanuki. They'll probably be more willing to listen to me, at least." With that, Kasen flew off.

Reimu groaned. "Ugh. Why is everyone such a pain recently? Why is it so hard to just do the things we need to do?" As Marisa laughed again, Reimu added "That includes you, you know!"
"Me? Hey, I'm just followin yer lead. Yer the one with the 'intuition', yeah?" Marisa mocked.

"Oooh." Reimu growled. "I'm gonna give you a danmaku battle you'll never forget after this. Just shut up and follow me." She flew off, and Marisa, getting on her broom, chuckled "Yes, ma'am."
As they disappeared, a figure watched from behind a tree. "Oh? This could get interesting." The figure said smugly. "Perhaps I'll give them a helping hand." With a snicker, the figure slunk away.

---

As Reimu and Marisa landed at the Myouren Temple's courtyard, they looked around. "Nothing goin' on here, as usual. Myouren is at least content to keep to themselves." Marisa said with a smile.

Reimu rolled her eyes, and began walking towards the temple, but before she could get very far, from behind a stone pillar, a girl jumped out at her. "URAMESHIYAAAAA!" She shouted.

Reimu sighed in exasperation. "Hello, Kogasa."

"No fair! You were supposed to be surprised!" The girl complained. Her hair was a light blue, and she wore a teal vest with white sleeves underneath, as well as a blue skirt. On her feet were geta sandals. Her eyes were heterochromatic, with one being red and the other being blue. In her hand, she held a purple umbrella with a single eye on it and a wicked smile. Protruding from the mouth of the umbrella was a long tongue. She pouted, glaring at Reimu.

"Yeah, yeah, I know." Reimu rolled her eyes. "Is Nazrin here?"

"Why should I tell you?!" Kogasa whined. "You didn't get scared when I jumped out at you, so I don't wanna help!"

Reimu pulled out some long, sharp needles from her dress, and growled "Just answer the question."

Kogasa squeaked, then yelled "Fine! Yeah, she's here! Just go talk to her and leave me alone!" With that, she ran off, crying.

"Cold as ever, Reimu." Marisa grinned, stretching her arms behind her head.

"Whatever. We don't have time for this." Reimu replied, stowing the needles away. "Let's go." With that, she strode up to the sliding doors and pounded on the wall. "Open up! I know Nazrin's here, I need to talk to her!"
There were a few moments of silence, then the doors slid open. In front of them stood a tall woman with purple and yellow hair. She was clad in a black and white dress and boots, and in her hand was what looked to be a blue scroll of some kind.

"Hijiri! How are things?" Marisa asked cheerfully.

The woman, Byakuren Hijiri, glared at Marisa and replied "Nazrin is currently practicing her faith. She won't be available today."

"That's not an acceptable answer." Reimu retorted. "We need her to find something for us."

Byakuren's eyes narrowed, and she responded "The answer is no. Good afternoon." With that, she slid the door shut.

Marisa groaned and asked "Well? Now what?"

"Now? We're not asking anymore." Reimu said ominously, taking out her purification rod. She swiftly slid the doors open and strode inside. Byakuren, who had begun to walk down the hall, turned and saw Reimu there.
"What are you doing?! You can't just barge into the temple like this!" She shouted. "Leave at once!"

Ignoring her, Reimu walked down the hall, checking every room. At the end of the hall, she heard voices, and she walked over, sliding the doors to the room open. There, sitting at a table, were six people, with sake cups and what looked to be cutlets of pork on a plate. As Reimu opened the door, all of their eyes went wide, like a deer caught in headlights.

One of the people spoke up, a woman with a white sash between her arms and a tiger-print dress. Her hair was bright yellow with black highlights. Her first words were "Don't tell Lady Hijiri. Please."

"Don't tell me WHAT?" Byakuren asked, rounding the corner. As her eyes fell upon the scene, her expression turned to one of anger. "WHAT?! Where did all this come from?!"

Another girl spoke up, one with black hair, in a sailor cap and uniform. "Hijiri, listen, we can explain—"

"Explain? There's no explanation for this behavior! Meat and alcohol are strictly forbidden at this temple! You all know this!" Byakuren screeched.

"HEY!" Reimu shouted. All eyes turned to her. "I don't have time for your arguments! Pay attention!" She pointed to one of the girls, who had grey hair and a brown dress. On her head sat two mouse ears, and a tail protruded from her behind. "You. Nazrin. We need your help."

Byakuren turned to Reimu and replied "As I SAID, Nazrin is practicing her faith—"

"She's havin' a rulebreakin' party with her friends. I don't think ya can use that excuse anymore." Marisa grinned, speaking in a mocking tone. At this, Byakuren gritted her teeth, but fell silent.
"M-me?" Nazrin spoke. "Why? What for?"

"We need you to find something for us. Or rather, someONE." Reimu responded. "There's a dangerous youkai in Gensokyo right now and we need you to help us track it down."

"Oh, I don't think that'll be necessary." A sickeningly sweet voice chimed in. Everyone turned to look, and there, in the hallway, stood a girl, wearing a white one-piece outfit with a green ribbon and socks. Her hair was a dusty blonde, and fox ears protruded from the top of her head. She was throwing a vial full of blue liquid up and down, twirling it between her fingers. She had a grin on her face that spread from ear to ear.

"Who're you?" Marisa asked.

At this, her face grew annoyed. "It's Tsukasa Kudamaki!" She grumbled. "We met before, several months ago."

"Don't recall." Reimu said flatly.

"Argh!" She grouched. "Whatever!" Her smile returned and she continued "I believe I can help you with your oomukade problem."

At this, Byakuren's eyes widened. "An oomukade? You were going to send one of my disciples out to find one of the most dangerous youkai alive?"

Reimu, again, ignored Byakuren. "How do you know about that?" Reimu questioned, crossing her arms.

"You really remember nothing, do you?" Tsukasa sighed. "Listen. Do you remember the incident with the dragon gems and the market cards?"

Marisa stroked her chin, then replied "Ehhhh... vaguely."

"I was the one helping the god, Chimata Tenkyuu, do her work. I was the one who set the whole thing up, remember?" Tsukasa said, a silky tone to her voice.

"Get to the point." Reimu responded, her patience growing thin.

"Of course. You see, I believe I can not only tell you the oomukade's name, but also where she is at this exact moment." Tsukasa snickered. "But! I'll only tell you if you do me a favor."

Reimu hefted her purification rod. "I don't make deals with youkai." She growled.

"You can exterminate me if you'd like, but you'll be left chasing your tails like mangy dogs." Tsukasa replied sharply. "Without me, you'll be too late to stop the oomukade's rampage. ...Well. Her actions, anyway. The rampage is a fabrication."

"It's what?" Marisa interjected.

"Oh yes! Didn't you know? The oomukade came up to the surface for one reason and one reason alone — she was hungry," Tsukasa cooed. "The idea of her going on a rampage is completely made-up — once she had eaten, her plan was to go back underground for quite a while."

"Hungry?" Reimu asked swiftly. "What do you mean? They eat dragons, right?"

Tsukasa's grin grew wider. "That's right."

"Last I checked, there ain't any dragons in Gensokyo." Marisa stated suspiciously, her face gaining a rare, somber expression.

"Ahhhh, but that's where you're wrong." Tsukasa giggled. "I know about that too, but unfortunately for you, you'll have to figure that one out on your own! For now, I can at least point you in the right direction, though! As I said, however, you'll need to do something for me in return."

"And what, exactly, could we offer a fox that apparently knows everything?" Reimu snarled.

"Protection." Tsukasa replied, her smile finally fading. "I want my safety ensured for the forseeable future."

"Protection?" Marisa asked. "Sorry, don't think I heard that right. Ya want protection from the Hakurei shrine maiden? Ain't that kinda like askin' a shark to keep ya safe in its mouth?"

"Perhaps. However, I know that she is one of the only ones that might stand a chance against the oomukade, and I want protection from her, in the event that, upon revealing this information to you, she ends up coming for my head."

"And why is it so important to you to give this oomukade such a bad time?" Reimu asked in irritation.

"Because she's my former boss." Tsukasa responded.

There was silence for a long time, then Byakuren spoke. "Everyone, let's just separate ourselves from this. Come on, down the hall. And know that I WILL be punishing you for these sins at a later date." She added, eliciting groans from everyone at the table, as they got up and followed her.

Once Reimu, Marisa, and Tsukasa were alone, Reimu asked "You served. Under an oomukade? You were her servant?"

"Well, more like lieutenant." Tsukasa grumbled sourly. "But yes. She was my former boss. If I share what I know with you, you must be prepared to ensure that I don't get regret it later."

"And what if ya give us the info, then we dump ya afterward and leave ya to fend fer yerself?" Marisa ventured, grinning again.

At this, Tsukasa had no answer. Reimu glared hard at her for a moment, then sighed. "Fine."

"What is WITH you, today, Reimu?" Marisa turned, her face drawing into a scowl. "You never just go along with whatever some youkai is telling ya to do!"

"I hate it just as much as you think I do." Reimu snarked back, before continuing "But I don't have time for this. That oomukade is out and about, right now. And even if there is a dragon potentially in Gensokyo, and the oomukade IS only targeting them, I have a feeling that letting a dragon get killed and eaten is bad karma. I don't want that on my soul when the time comes." Reimu grumbled. "We don't have any other choice at this point, anyway. Even if what Kudamaki says is true, that the supposed 'rampage' is totally made up by the Scarlet people, that doesn't guarantee that, before heading back underground, she won't go on a rampage anyway. I'm not willing to take that chance. And while I certainly could just drag the info out of her and leave her to her fate—" Reimu glared at Tsukasa. "I'd prefer to just take the path of least resistance and get this over with. After this is over, you have three weeks. Make plans. I'm kicking you out once your time is up. No extensions."

Tsukasa grinned. "More than enough time. Pleasure doing business with you." She said, reaching out her hand to shake. Reimu scowled, then begrudgingly shook her hand once.

Marisa exhaled loudly. "Gods, this is such a big ugly mess. I ain't even gonna try ta keep track anymore. Let's just get this over with, already."

"Now. Your end of the bargain." Reimu murmured.

"Of course!" Tsukasa said cheerfully. "Now, listen closely..."

---

A girl stood among the foliage near the Misty Lake, gazing at the Scarlet Devil Mansion, still enclosed in its protective shells. Her hair was a faded blue color, reaching down to her back. In one hand, she held a large yellow pickaxe. Around her arms and legs were many orange bows, and she wore a black top and skirt with yellow patterning. Her feet were bare.

"Damn it. How long're they gonna stay in there? They gotta be gettin' hungry by now, what gives? These barriers should'a come down days ago!"

"Hey, you." The girl's eyes widened, and she turned to see Reimu and Marisa standing there, purification rod and Mini-Hakkero in hand.

Her grin grew wide, and she chuckled. "Well, well, well. If it ain't my sparring buddies from the gem incident. How can I help ya today?" She said, walking out into the light.

Reimu's eyes narrowed. "Wait a second. I know you. Momoyo, wasn't it?"

"Momoyo Himemushi's my full name. Good ta see ya again. If I remember correctly, both of ya gave me one hell of a time down in the caves. I never felt so alive before. I was hopin' someday ya'd both come back for a rematch. I been dying to pay you back."

"Unfortunately, we're not here for a danmaku battle." Reimu murmured. "You are a threat to Gensokyo."

"A threat? Nawww." Momoyo chuckled, casually walking towards them. "Naw, I ain't here to stir up trouble. I just came up for a bite to eat, n'then I'll be on my way. Though I will say, y'all got it pretty nice up here. Beats the toxic gas down in the caves."

"We have been informed that there is a dragon, here in Gensokyo, and you are threatening that dragon's life."

Momoyo's eyes narrowed. "Informed by who?" Reimu didn't respond, but recognition came into Momoyo's eyes. "That damn kuda-gitsune. She's still salty that I ignored her when I fought ya, eh? Disobeyed 'orders'? I don't take orders from weaklings." Reimu merely lowered her arm, purifiation rod at her side, and Momoyo let out a hearty guffaw. "An' just what do ya plan on doin' with that, eh? 'Case that rat-fox didn't fill ya in, I ain't some regular youkai. I eat divine bein's. Bein's that nobody else wants ta take on. But I take 'em on. An' lemme tell ya, dragon meat is delicious. Salted and spiced just right, maybe a bit'a honey? Man, always hits the spot." She grinned, showing her sharpened teeth. "Ya may be the Hakurei shrine maiden, but I'll give ya a warnin'. Yer WAY outta yer league. Ya think dragons just sit there quietly 'n take it? No." Momoyo continued advancing, but Reimu stood her ground. "I wrassle the damn things to the ground. I break 'em in every sort of wonderful way. Bones, organs. I chain 'em up 'n let em sit, then when I'm ready, I cut 'em up 'n dump 'em in a pot."

Marisa grimaced. "Gross."

Momoyo let out a hearty laugh. "Naw, not at all! It's the best damn meal y'all'l ever have! Tell ya what. Ya drop this whole thing, lemme go, an' then, when I'm done killin 'er, I'll split the meat with ya. 40-30-30. How'zat sound? I get the fourty, a'course. I'm the one doin' all the dirty work." She twirled her pickaxe, then planted it into the ground, leaning on its handle, with a grin. "I think that's a pretty fair deal, don't y'all?"

"I think I prefer Japanese food, if it's all the same to ya." Marisa murmured, pulling her hat down, and lifting her Mini-Hakkero.

Momoyo sighed. "Damn. I really was tryin' ta be generous." She flipped her pickaxe upright, and began to glow a blackish-purple. "But I guess I gotta take out the trash before I can sit an' eat. It's nothin' personal, but I AM hungry, after all."

Reimu's eyes widened, and she felt sick, doubling over. Marisa, shocked, asked "Reimu? What? What's up?!" She knelt down next to her, but then quickly stepped back as Reimu lost her lunch. "AY! Watch the dress, watch!"

Reimu coughed, then slowly stood up and wiped her mouth. "Damn it. She was right."

"What? Who was right, what's the deal?" Marisa asked, concerned.

Reimu's gaze hardened, as she stared at Momoyo, rod in hand. "Kasen. She was right. Oomukades' magical strength is disgustingly powerful."

"What? How can ya tell?" Marisa asked frantically.

"Because she made me sick just from sensing her magical abilities." Reimu growled. "Her aura overwhelmed me."

Marisa's gaze slowly turned from Reimu to Momoyo. She raised her Mini-Hakkero. "What the hell are you...?"

"MARISA!" Reimu shouted. "Stop."

Marisa turned. "What?"

"There's nothing you can do. Get the hell away from here as fast as you can. Warn everyone you can find. Get Yukari, get Okina, Kasen, Suika, I don't care who, but make sure we've got powerhouses for backup." Reimu sighed, then glared at her hand, which was trembling. "Damn it. I can't believe I'm afraid of a bug. Am I six years old?"

As Marisa took a step back, and flew off to get help, Momoyo chuckled. "Now, now. Don't beat yerself up." Her voice got dark. "I just ain't yer regular bug."

---

As Remilia looked out the window, she took a sip of tea. It had been a while since Sakuya had gotten Reimu to help out, and afterward, Remilia had insisted that no one go out again. Now, she sat, simply waiting. "I hate this..." She mumbled to herself. "But there's nothing I can do anymore. It's in Hakurei's hands now. Still, I wish I didn't feel so powerless." Then, something caught her attention. From the forest around the Misty Lake, a blackish-purple pillar of energy began to stretch upward. Upon looking at it, Remilia suddenly felt bile rising in her throat, but managed to keep it down. "What the hell is that...?" She managed, staring incredulously at the forest. "That can't be right. That's not the oomukade, is it?"

"I'm afraid it is." A voice came from behind her. She turned in her seat to find Patchouli standing nearby, with Koakuma gently keeping her arm under her for support.

"Patchy!" Remilia's eyes filled with surprise. "Shouldn't you be in bed? You can't possibly have fully recovered yet—"

"I'm fine." Patchouli interrupted, but Koakuma quietly shook her head at Remilia. "I need to be ready for anything. That youkai is the single biggest threat to Meiling, and to Gensokyo, right now."

"That?" Remilia glanced at the black pillar of energy, feeling ill. "That's the oomukade? That can't be right! That magical aura makes Meiling's outburst the other day look like a firecracker! It has to be a dragon!"
Patchouli shook her head, coughing. "No. Stronger. That's how they take the dragons down."

Remilia stared at her, then slowly turned back to the window. "Did I... just send the Hakurei shrine maiden... to her death?" She whispered.

---

"Damn it. Damn it, damn it, damn it." Marisa repeated, flying as fast as she could. "Where are all the high-and-mighties when you need them?" She spotted Kasen, and quickly flew down, landing in front of her.
Kasen yelled in shock, then, seeing who it was, asked "Marisa? What are you doing here? I thought—"

"No time. Reimu's in danger." Marisa interrupted.

"What?" Kasen's voice rose. "Where?!"

"Misty Lake. She took one look at Momoyo, the oomukade, and threw up. Ya were right, this is worse than the Lunarians. We have ta call everyone. Yukari, Okina, Eientei, Moriya, Myouren, the Netherworld. You, too."
Kasen gritted her teeth. "Damn it! I tried to warn her! I can try, but there's no guarantee Yukari will even be awake. I have no clue where Okina is, but, I can try the others. You go to Eientei and Moriya. I'll go to Myouren and the Netherworld, and see if I can get in contact with Yakumo and Matara. Hurry!"

Marisa got back on her broom and kicked off, heading towards the Moriya Shrine. Kasen stomped her foot in frustration. "Why does she never listen when I try to teach her something?! This could have been avoided! Damn it, Reimu!" She pushed off the ground and flew into the air.

---

Momoyo began to walk toward Reimu, the strain of her magical aura increasing on her every second. Reimu's face went pale, but she managed to keep from getting sick again. "See, I really didn't wanna have ta fight you. I would'a preferred we just had a nice danmaku battle, for fun, then ya leave me alone, I eat, and then head on back ta the caves. But ya insist on doing it this way." She sighed. "'S'a shame, really. I did like ya. And I can see why yer the shrine maiden. But nobody gets in the way of my hunt." She growled.

"If you kill me, all of Gensokyo will come after you. You know that, right?" Reimu gasped.

"Ya think I care?" Momoyo laughed. "Ya got a dragon, sittin' right here, in the middle'a Gensokyo. One'a the most powerful beings alive... Well. 'Cept me, of course. And that's the kicker — No matter who comes after me, even if it's the dragon — I can beat 'em with one hand behind my back."

Reimu managed a smile. "Oh yeah? Do you know what Fantasy Nature is?"

Momoyo grinned, laughing again. "Oh, you mean yer damn 'cheat technique'? Where ya just fly outta reality and become totally 'invincible'? Yawn." Reimu's eyes widened. "Ya see, ya can spend all the time ya like in lala-land. Ya can hit me as many times as ya like — hell, I'll sit an' take it! I'm a good sport! But here's the problem, Hakurei..." She said, taking a step closer. "It don't matter how many times ya hit me. However strong them hits are. I ain't gonna feel anythin' more'n bee stings."

Reimu defiantly growled "That's impossi-" But as Momoyo took another step forward, she had to make a conscious effort not to be sick again.

"Oh, now, listen. Since ya may feel like I'm bein' kinda rude, here — an' maybe I am. But lemme reassure ya. I 100% respect ya. Yer the best damn danmaku fighter I ever seen. Yer skill, and even yer power aren't in question. I heard all yer stories. All the incidents. And I gotta say, I am DAMN impressed. Ya really do deserve the shrine maiden title, y'know?"
Reimu chuckled weakly, trying to raise her purification rod. "Flattery... will get you... nowhere." She wheezed.

Momoyo tilted her head and shrugged. "Hey, fair 'nough. But I just wanted ta make sure we're on the same page here: ya got nothin' but my respect. Which is why, when I'm done, I ain't gonna hurt or maim yer body anymore. As an act'a good will, I'm gonna walk ya to the Human Village, 'n lay ya down gently, so they can give ya a respectful burial."

"How thoughtful." Reimu growled as Momoyo took another step.

"Ain't it though?" Momoyo chuckled. "I'm too damn nice for my own good. But it's the least I can do."

"I'm afraid that won't be necessary. Reimu is a valuable asset and it would be a headache trying to find a replacement." A voice spoke sternly.
Momoyo looked past Reimu, and grinned. There behind them stood a woman with long blonde hair, a white mob cap, and an umbrella. She wore a white dress with a purple banner down the front. Accompanying her were two others: a woman with nine yellow foxtails, dressed in a pointy eared hat and a similar dress with a blue banner. Her face was stern. Alongside her, a short girl with two long black cat tails protruding from behind her, dressed in a red top and skirt, with a green mob cap, short brown hair, and slitted eyes. She wore a playful expression.

"Well. I'll be damned." Momoyo breathed. "I must be pretty important if yer willin' to come outta hidin', Yakumo."
The woman holding the umbrella, Yukari Yakumo, didn't crack a smile. She simply glared at Momoyo, and said "You are a problem."

"Naw, I'm just here for some grub! I ain't gonna hurt Gensokyo!" Momoyo laughed. "Y'all can do whatever ya want, I don't care! This girl just got in the way of my food. That's all."

"You misunderstand. Your very presence, here, now, is a problem. You upset the balance that we are trying to maintain. You are too powerful to be here, or frankly, to even exist at all." Yukari stated, her tone scathing.

"Oooh! I'm shakin'." Momoyo mocked. She kicked Reimu out of the way, and into a tree. Reimu cried out in pain as Momoyo started walking towards Yukari. Instantly, the other two girls, the catgirl and the fox, stepped in front of Yukari.

"We will not allow you to hurt our mistress." The fox woman spoke. Her name was Ran Yakumo, and she was Yukari's shikigami, a type of familiar that served under her.

"Sorry~! You're gonna have to get through us first!" The catgirl spoke. She was known as Chen, and served under Ran, being a shikigami herself.
Momoyo sighed, in exasperation. "Mistress, this. Milady, that. Yer the same as those Scarlet folks. It was so annoying seein' that stupid maid and her co-staff runnin' around as that crappy kid vampire barked orders at 'em. Don't it get tirin' bein someone else's doormat?" Momoyo grinned again. "Actually, it don't matter. I don't care."

"You need to leave, now." Yukari stated flatly. "Go back to the underground, and never return."

"Or what?" Momoyo shot back, showing off her sharp teeth once more. "Like I said to this one—" She kicked Reimu in the stomach, and Reimu coughed and gagged. "You got a dragon here, and even that ain't enough to stop me. How exactly are ya gonna make me leave?" At this, Yukari didn't respond. "Oh no. Oh no, hahaha!" Momoyo laughed. "Ya didn't come here without a plan, surely? Mastermind? Grand Sage? Royal pain in my ass?" She clapped her hands. "This is too good. I got to beat up the Hakurei shrine maiden an' I caught the almighty Yukari Yakumo with 'er pants down?! My luck must be off the charts right now! Is there a god watchin' over me? I gotta thank 'em later!"

"Truly, you are as idiotic as they come." Yukari said tonelessly.

At this, Momoyo's grin faded, and she glared at Yukari. "You wanna run that one by me again?"

"You seem to be under the impression that I intend to frivolously play danmaku with you." Yukari glared at her. "That I, along with all of Gensokyo, won't use the fullest of our abilities to shut you down and destroy or seal you."

Momoyo stared at her. "I don't care what ya do." She said darkly. "Danmaku or not, you ain't winnin' against me."

"I beg to differ." Yukari responded. "Perhaps you are not fully aware of the scope of Gensokyo's residents and their abilities, of the land you invaded so rudely, so let me tell you." She advanced toward Momoyo, Chen and Ran falling behind. "We have people here who can control fate. Time and space. Who can destroy anything just by clenching their fist. We have people who can grow to an immense size at will, who can cause insanity, alter the senses. Blind you, deafen you. Controlling eternity, controlling luck. Unending, and unrelenting immortality."

Momoyo yawned. "Yeah? So what?"

"Your only abilities are immense magical power and strength." Yukari continued. "Both of which have childishly easy counters."

"Yeah? If that's so, why is my species able to attack and kill dragons? How come I can overpower 'em and chop 'em down like weeds?" Momoyo inquired, still grinning.

"Because not all dragons are created equal." Yukari answered.

"Beg pardon?" Momoyo growled.

"Your species are capable of eating dragons, this is true. And your power is considerable." Yukari smiled for the first time. "But every dragon that has been eaten by your kind in history have been a lesser dragon. Weaklings, newly hatched dragons. Dragons that weren't fit to remain with their own kind." Momoyo's fist clenched. "The reason you are able to kill 'dragons' so easily... is because they're the rejects." Yukari's smile faded, and she stared Momoyo dead in the eyes. "Any dragon worth eating wouldn't even bother slaughtering you. You... are beneath them."

"You... are really gonna regret that ya said that." Momoyo snarled.

But Yukari wasn't done. "The only dragons you've eaten have been the ones mortals have seen, in person. And dragons don't just stay in the mortal realm unless they're defective. Dragons, once their affairs are in order, leave. In fact, the only reason you are so feared is because of the word-of-mouth... of mortals." Yukari whispered with a smile "But here's a little secret — mortals don't know what true power looks like. Tell a lie long enough and loud enough, and eventually it becomes fact. THAT is how oomukade like yourself came to be perceived as powerful. That... and your species bragging endlessly..." Yukari pulled out a fan, flicking it open and hiding her mouth, as she closed her eyes. "Like you've been doing. All this time. And while your magical power is considerable, and may have made our shrine maiden ill..." Momoyo gritted her teeth, letting out a low growl as Yukari finished "Your magical power is a single drop in the bucket... compared to a real dragon."

Momoyo couldn't take any more, and screamed loudly, dashing at Yukari. Out of nowhere, holes in reality began to open, gaps filled with eyes, swallowing Momoyo's arms and legs, immobilizing her. She snarled in frustration, and Yukari took another step toward her. "And here's another little secret." She whispered. "The power of all those weak, pathetic dragons? Mere drops in the bucket themselves... compared to the power we've collected here in Gensokyo. Sorry you had to find out that you were so pathetic this way, but at least you no longer have to live a lie, right?" Yukari giggled childishly.

"You BITCH! I'LL KILL YOU!" Momoyo roared. "I'LL CUT YA TO RIBBONS AND SERVE YER BODY TO FILTHY PIGS!"

Ignoring her now, Yukari walked over to Reimu. "Get up, Reimu." She ordered, grabbing Reimu's arm and lifting her to her feet. "Can you stand?" Yukari asked.

"Y-Yeah, I think." Reimu, said, but as she spoke, she coughed, and drops of blood appeared on her palm.

Yukari's eyes narrowed, and she called "Ran."

Ran stepped forward. "Yes, Mistress."

"Take Reimu and move as fast as you can to Eientei. If the rabbit asks why you're here, tell her it's an emergency order from me."

"Yes, Mistress." Ran answered, gently picking Reimu up.

Yukari turned to Chen. "Chen."

Chen bounced forward, a wide smile lighting up her face. "Yes ma'am!"

"Find out where Ibaraki is and tell her the threat has been neutralized. We don't need a panic running through Gensokyo."

Chen nodded, bouncing on her heels. "Yes, Lady Yukari! Be back in a jiff!" She purred cheerfully, before dashing away, with Ran following shortly afterward.

Yukari turned back to Momoyo, whose eyes were wild, her hair a mess. Spittle dripped down her mouth, her fangs clenched tightly together. "Take heart. I have no interest in killing you. Frankly, there would be far too much of a headache trying to explain to the underground how you went missing, though truthfully, they might not even care. However, I cannot take that risk. So, I will send you back." Yukari's expression grew unreadable. "But I am going to extract every last bit of information from you until you serve no use to me."

"I ain't tellin ya a damn thing!!" Momoyo barked, struggling to get free from Yukari's gap restraints.

Yukari's face moved inches away from Momoyo's, and she gulped.

"Thank you for giving me the go-ahead." Yukari murmured. A large gap enclosed Yukari and Momoyo, and after swallowing them, the gap disappeared entirely.