The Gensokyo Survival Guide, or the Life and Times of Oscar Diggs (updates weekly)

[Yumetou]

Magician

A Magician, not to be confused with the various magic users of Gensokyo, can refer to either an item imbibed with magic which animates it, or a human who has ascended to a higher state through magic. Using a series of rituals, Magicians purge themselves of human limitations, such as the need for food or aging. Instead, they feed on raw magical potential, often taking up residence in mystic towers, forgotten ruins or arcane libraries. Their extensive lifespans and need for magical knowledge insures even a young Magician is a formidable magic-wielder, though the level of study needed to become one insures they are few in number. Magicians may be classified as Devils or Youkai depending on their origin, and physically they have few derivations from a normal human.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The handle of the broom was aimed squarely at his face. Almost as if she were some ancient heroine challenging a rival to a duel. Oscar, however, managed to stay calm under the glare of her smile. Her confidence was almost overwhelming, but his instincts told him there was an opportunity here…

 

“So, you dare challenge a master of the Arcane?” He replied with a sniff. Reaching with one hand for his fallen cups as he righted the ‘table’ they were set on. “Very well. With what do you barter to contend with my might?”

 

The question seemed to stun her. The blonde witch blinked, staring down at him. Before her hands went to her pockets, thinking to herself. Either hand turning over their contents. Beside her, the four girls glanced to him. Wriggle, Mystia and Daiyousei especially looked nervous, which was surely a sign something bad was going to happen. Cirno on the other hand gave him a thumbs up and an encouraging wink.

 

“Idunno, how’s this?”

 

Oscar’s eyes went back to the woman as her hands pulled at a bag to her side. Pulling out a book, and slamming it on the table. It was an old thing, that much was obvious. Its surface worn from countless nights of reading. The cover clearly depicted some kind of Chinese design, complete with a dragon in its center. Whatever it was though, it was sure to be valuable.

 

“This will suffice, child.”

 

“...Child? I own my own store, ze.”

 

“I am willing to wager a tome of my own against this. If you win, I pass it to you. If I win, I keep this as my prize.” Oscar gestured to the side. Agappa’s eyes dully rose, the visible black book emerging from the handbag around her neck. Its surface traced with Occidental designs.

 

“...Okay, that’s more like it.” The young woman’s smile flaring under her thick blond hair and wide-brimmed hat. “Ready for some flashy dan...”

 

Her words died on her lips as Oscar silently rolled a ball under a cup, and began to shift them in place. His hands moving with a building speed, until they were a blur. Team 9 stared in slowly building awe at the display. Until Oscar eased the cups to their final position. “Choose your cup, and claim your prize.”

 

Silence descended upon the crowd. None of the children, whether human or Team 9, dared to even breathe. Scarcely standing over them, and only just meeting Oscar’s gaze sitting down, the witch flashed a frown of discontent. Before her eyes fell to the cups. Holding aloft her broom, she deliberately set it against the cup on the right. When her eyes went to him, they seemed entirely robbed of their earlier energy. Before the handle of the broom flicked aside the cup.

 

There was nothing inside.

 

The crowd seemed to slowly take a breath. Marisa on the other hand bent her knees, eyeing the other two cups. Carefully peeling back the remaining two to reveal…

 

Nothing.

 

“Wow, that’s not bad.” She said, a hand extending to run over where the ball would be. The fake ceilings in the cups staring back as she peered inside. Brightness returning to her face as she held out a hand. “I thought you were pullin’ my leg, but a spell like that takes real skill. I didn’t even sense you castin’ it.”

 

“Such paltry things are only a fraction of the power of Oscar Diggs, master of the arcane.”

 

“Cool. So...wanna danmaku fight?”

 

There it was again. That word. Narumi had said it earlier, and he still had no idea what it was. His ignorance was not helped by Marisa wriggling her eyebrows at him. “Alas, I have not the time. Please, your wager.”

 

“Ehh?! C’mon, a magician like you would have no problem. Unless you’re scarced~”

 

“The book, pl--”

 

“Bawk.”

 

“The b--”

 

“Bawk.”

 

“Th—”

 

“Bawk.” This time the barb came from Cirno. The witch turned, her eyes flicking to Cirno in her disguised state. The expression on her face was...weird. It wasn’t fear, he didn’t think. But very much a kind of nervousness. Cirno had been almost fearless of Kimiko, but something in the lines of her face said she knew what the stranger was capable of. The other three looked just as nervous. But somehow, Cirno managed to speak. “Osu-san is...n-new, to Gensokyo. He doesn’t even have his spellcards yet.”

 

“Oh. OH.” Comprehension and surprise dawned on the blond’s face as she turned back to him. Extending her hand. “That explains everything. I’m Marisa. You kin think of me as a big deal ‘round here. You kin consider this yer welcoming present from me.”

 

With only a moment’s hesitation, she pushed the book towards Oscar. The man completely unaware she already had half a plan to get it back by the next day. Idly, he took it, stowing it in Agappa’s bag as Marisa smiled to him. “So, yer Oscar Diggs? Weird name.”

 

“I’ve been told.”

 

“I’m sure yer full of questions. What wouldja like to know?”

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

What do you ask?

 

 = Ask about her. Maybe you can be friends!

 = Ask about what Danmaku and Spellcards are. They keep coming up and its weirding you out.

 = Ask if she's ever heard of Cirno, Narumi or Agappa.

 = Ask about her business. Maybe you can find a way to earn money from it.

 = Ask about places to stay. Keine might let you stay at the Temple for now, but do you really want to sleep on that futon more than you have to?

 

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

Oscar Diggs, the Great and Powerful

Species: Human (Outsider)

Health: Good

Magical Potential: Nil

Reputation: Outsider

 

Wits = 3/5

Charisma = 4/5

Occult = 0/5

Intrigue = 2/5

Physical = 2/5

 

Inventory:

Old Rabbit

Rocket Volley (x1)

Simple Stage Props

Cell Phone (18% Power)

Grimoire (x2)

Paperclip (x2)

Bic Pen

Lighter

Bullets (x8)

 

Quests:

Stay in the Human Village.

Discover spells and abilities you can use for Danmaku.

Move out of the Heida Temple School spare room.

Earn enough money to eat.

Edited August 6, 2024 by Yumetou

[Yumetou]

Danmaku

 

Literally meaning ‘bullet curtain’ and more correctly ‘barrage’ in Japanese, Danmaku is the primary means of conflict resolution in Gensokyo. A ceremonial battle between two figures using their magical talents. The purpose of the battle is to not only triumph in combat, but demonstrate magical prowess as well as beauty of aesthetic.

 

Danmaku is channeled though Spell Cards. Enchanted rule cards demonstrating your abilities and powered through magic. Though most resemble spells as imagined by Outsiders, they may just as easily be performed with a weapon or instrument, with the oddest example being a warmed sweet potato. A Spell Card is an extension of a user’s personality as much as their magical prowess.

 

Though some members of Otherworldly Ventures are accomplished at Danmaku, the level of study required to perform Danmaku at even a basic level is considerable. Given the danger of its practice and the study necessary, it is best to leave such things in the hands of Otherworldly Venture’s Extermination Department, or with the numerous protective figures around the Village.

 

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The wizard of sorts remained seated at his impromptu table. Hands folded serenely. His green eyes on the smaller woman’s own as she grinned back with an irrepressible excitement. Oscar’s own expression may have looked calm. But in that moment, his mind was furiously passing over everything he had seen and experienced in the past day. He had been in Gensokyo for almost twenty-four hours now. Some things, he seen enough of to make a series of educated guesses. Some he had accepted, some he was still unsure of.

 

 

He was not in America. Which meant he may as well be anywhere, but it seemed to lean towards an Asian aesthetic.

 

He was possibly dead. Though that part he was hazy on. This place definitely didn’t match any depiction of the afterlife he had ever heard of.

 

Races other than humans lived here, and they knew of Earth as the ‘Outside World’. Further, there were fairies and youkai there as well, which had seemingly never been seen by modern humans.

 

Magic was real here. Which was how all these strange things kept happening. This hypothesis still had holes in it, small things like how half the people he met could fly, yet the village had a short wall around itself. But that could wait. Most pressing at the moment was that word.

 

 

“Wizards in the Outside World are few, and we spend most of our time focused on our studies. Tell me, what is Danmaku?”

 

The smile Marisa gave in response told him he couldn’t have picked a better topic. “Oooh, Danmaku is great! They’re magic fights folk have. Youkai can be very dangerous and cause a lot of havoc. But we don’t wanna damage Gensokyo or give away that Youkai exist. So the Sages came up with the Danmaku Spell Card Rules. A kind of harmless fight where we shoot magic at one another until one of us gives up. Danmaku’s used for all kinds o’ things, from friendly duels to settlin’ disagreements to celebratin’. You’ve got pretty girls zipping through the air, shootin’ magic at one another making explosions overhead, each an extension of the spellcaster. Anything goes, so long as its nice to look at, ze.”

 

The casual way she described it wasn’t the in-depth dissertation he was hoping for. But it gave him the big picture at least. It explained what Narumi and then Marisa wanted. They were trying to bond over a kind of magic duel. Which meant only one possible thing.

 

He had to stay as far away from this thing as possible.

 

Scary monsters in the forest chasing him were one thing, now that he was nice and safe in the village. But this was something different. It was a challenge, that could be dropped on him at any time, by any one, for any reason. He had to avoid it. And barring that, he had to find a way to compete in Danmaku. The sight of his four friends, even in their disguises behind her, was strangely comforting. The eyes of Cirno, Mystia and Wriggle watched him with timid encouragement. Daiyousei looked nervously over to Marisa. He couldn’t help but give them all an encouraging wink, before his calm gaze went back to Marisa.

 

“That’s good to know, thank you Miss Marisa.”

 

“Geez, are you always so formal? Yer almost as bad as my best friend.” She smiled under her broad hand. One hand rising to grab the brim as she bent down to look over at Agappa. “Who’s yer friend, ze?”

 

The coin had long ago begun to rust. A soft green coat over the sheen of metal. Between its gap, the dark eyes of Mikari-Baba gazed through the gap at Marisa’s shimmering face. She said nothing, at first. Only holding the coin, turning it this way and that, before something seemed to shift. Her pupil began to dilate, then constrict. Focusing not on Marisa, but past her. The witch’s charming smile persisted irrepressibly. There was nothing overtly wrong about the two but...

 

He had the feeling something really bad was about to happen.

 

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

What now?

 

 = Agappa isn't disguised like Team 9. Introduce her as your sickly definitely human daughter.

 = Introduce your gloomy companion! That should smooth things over.

 = Marisa doesn't know Agappa, but Agappa is acting strangely. And has been avoiding this entire conversation. Ask her if this relates to her work with the Yamas.

 = Now would be a good time to signal Team 9 to cause a distraction.

 = Let's just ah, go and talk somewhere else, Marisa. I have a couple questions away from my assistant.

[Yumetou]

Starting (and keeping) A Business

The Human Village is home to a number of shops, stalls and storefronts. When thinking of these however, do not be fooled into thinking of larger stores in the Outside World. Places like Wal-Mart or 7/11 would have little potential in the Human Village, and most trades you are likely to know will have no interest in the Humans here. Fortunately, Otherworldly Ventures Inc. is willing to help you open your own business in Gensokyo.

The first step is to enroll in the Heida Temple School. While English is preferred as a trade languages between merchants, Japanese is the predominant language of your likely customers. Additionally, you will want to take vocational training in the occupation you want to pursue. Our partnership with Heida Temple School insures interested Outsiders can pursue apprenticeships with farmers and craftsmen. Think hard over who your target demographic is, how often you will sell your product to them, and how you can make your product more appealing to them. And how you can make them buy it more frequently.

Once you near the end of your apprenticeship, you want to produce some examples of the items you'll be making and try to sell them. This will give you an idea of their demand in the Village. Don't be discouraged if few people buy them, your skills will improve over time. After finishing your Apprenticeship, you can take these examples of your produce and sales, before applying for a loan from Otherworldly Ventures Inc (annual interest rate of 7.50% for any businesses which apply). While your instinct may be to pursue a large storefront, it may be best to start with a small, mobile stall as you scope out the best location for sales and earn money to improve your business. Advertising can be pursued in a number of ways, from hiring a town crier to advertise your store to a leaflet campaign.

Lastly, being part of the Otherworldly Ventures Inc. umbrella means you will have access to partnerships with other shops beneath us. You may receive coupons from Dr. Bintara's clinic to hand out to elderly shoppers, or be able to collaborate with the Normal Human Blacksmithy to make a special item to sell at your store. Your shop will grow as far and as fast as you are willing to push it!

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

"This is my assistant and companion, Agappa Harume. Though her friends call her Agappa-chan" Oscar said, still trying to keep his composed demeanor. And trying not to ask himself again who would willingly consider themselves her friend. One hand gestured to his side kindly. A smile playing at his face. "Say hello to Marisa, Agappa-chan."

 

The Mikari-Baba's body remained still, as if she could not hear him. Still hunched, with the Mon coin between her fingers. A light seemed to form in Agappa’s visible eye, before she sat up. The simple Mon slipping from her. The crowd of children stared mesmerized, even as the members of Team 9 huddled together, covering faces and ears with their hands or kimonos. It was only as she began to speak, that Marisa’s expression shifted.

 

“Behind smiling eyes
In wandering hokora,
Lonely mother weeps
As Sun rises and Moon sets,
In regret, spirits linger
Shining witch tries to forget.”

 

There was no sadness in Agappa’s voice. Nor was there any cruel joy or even her familiar apathy. Only a calm, solemn voice as if she were pronouncing she had witnessed her own doom. The crowd said nothing. They didn’t even seem to breathe. Marisa just stared, all trace of her previous excitement gone. Her face was bare of emotion now. No wait, there was a twitch in her cheek.

Her thin arms rose, slamming down on the makeshift table in front of her. The pottery piece shattering underneath the weight, though neither took any notice of it. Marisa's eyes were locked with Agappa's, level across the 'desk' they were seated on either side of. "How do you know who I am? How do you know about my teacher? What do you mean 'wandering hokora'? TALK, CREEP!"

 

Agappa's eyes shifted again. Returning to their natural shape. Her eyelids fluttered, then blinked as she returned to the present. "Yes, Ningen? May I help you?"

 

"You can help me by telling me about what you just said, ze! How do you know about me? How do you know about her? Why did you say it like it was a poem?"

 

Agappa stared for a moment. Her mouth ajar, as it was usually when confronted by a strange. Before her yellow-coated shoulders simply gave a faint shrug. Whatever Marisa was hoping for, it was the wrong move. Reaching for her side, she pulled out a small cylindrical device. Which clicked and twisted as she held it in front of her. "You're a Youkai, aren't you? You know I could beat the answers I want out of you and no one would stop me, ze!"

 

"You are right."

 

"Then tell me how you know about my mo--my teacher! Where is she?"

 

"..." The mute stare returned, Agappa's shoulders rolling with the same familiar shrug. Though her eyes remained closed as she took a slow breath. "Tayata Om Bekanze Bekanze Maha Bekanze Radza Samudgate Soha."

 

The look in Marisa's eyes didn't recede. Her teeth grit down on one another. Her eyes shimmering with anger she scarcely restrained. "You've got a lot of nerve. Are ya tryin' to start trouble with me?"

 

"No."

 

"Then...why would you say that?"

 

"Healing."

 

Oscar's first hint that things were about to get worse was his friends. Cirno, Daiyousei, Mystia and Wriggle remained in place. A mass of kimono sleeves and cheap wigs as they each tried to shield one another. Cirno was at the front of the group, the other three clutched in her arms, though even she didn't have the courage to watch what was happening. Was this how they reacted to all Danmakus? The crowds of children were less fearful. But there was an air of clear apprehension in the air. One only Oscar could stop. The question was...how?

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

 = Team 9 was so scared of Agappa they refused to talk to her. Maybe exaggerating what she is capable of will convince Marisa to back off?

 = Promise to investigate Agappa's strange poem. A wizard as great as you could figure out the answer in a month.

 = Suggest the two have a Danmaku duel...as you mess with Marisa's reagents while she's distracted.

 = GET DOWN MISS WITCH! There are more Youkai here!

[Yumetou]

Lying

Lying is seldom considered a good thing on Earth, even if it is a constant fact of daily life. That said, lying in Gensokyo--while more lucrative--can potentially be a source of great danger for you, dear reader. The consequences of lying on Earth may be hurt feelings and broken friendships. However Gensokyo is not inhabited just by humans, but by ancient beings of great knowledge and magic. The better to preserve your life and happiness, it is advised you not make false statements rashly, and keep a list of lies and who you said them to written at all times. These can be written in a number of Earth languages, or in ciphers if you are a Japanese or Chinese speaker.

The consequences of the wrong lie to the wrong person could put your life and those you love in immediate peril, and the wrong words may come back to haunt you.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The air was heavy with apprehension. No one moved. No one said anything. The only sounds to be heard were the faint whimpers of Team 9 and the sound of the device in Marisa’s hand. All as she glared with unrestrained fury, at a face which looked like it couldn’t care less. Things were about to get out of hand. At best, that would mean a Danmaku in the middle of a bunch of children…

 

He had to do something…

 

“Now Miss Kirisame, there is no need for that,”

 

The Outsider said, trying to hide his nervousness under a calming smile as he stepped between the two. The smile that forced itself onto his face was his best showman’s expression. Between the three faces, he was sure his was the only one which hid his inner feelings. Marisa’s expression didn’t change. Her eyes didn’t move from her target. Only going to his face as he swept his cape to either side in a bod. Obscuring her target.

 

“I am sure a woman of your experience in the occult is familiar with the ramblings of maddened mystics. Agappa is one blessed with such gifts,” ...’Maddened mystics’? Was he narrating a D&D session or negotiating a hostage situation? Whatever, there was no time to work out his approach. He had to keep going. “She...does not know what she is saying. I am certain I can decipher her meaning however, if you’ll only give me a month or so. There’s no need to scare the children here. There may be a nominal fee—but we are friends and I can tell how much these means to you. It will only be enough to cover my costs. All I need is time.”

 

Marisa’s face burned with a fire she had never felt before. Her teeth clenched and her eyes glared at the silent maiden. One who gazed at the talisman which had meant the end of so many as though it were made of straw. Blood pulsed in her temple and ears. Each making the world tremor with a dull thud. “A month…”

 

Her voice sounded dull and distant. Almost as if she were hearing her echo from a distance. Then she let out a breath she didn’t know she had been holding in. “Whew. That’s a relief. Sorry I scaredja Osu-tan. Guess you caught me in a bad mood, da ze. Yer right tho, this is no time for a Danmaku. If you you figure out yer friend’s ramblings, ya can find my house in the Forest of Magic. I’m sure someone can show ya the way.”

 

The witch’s head turned. It may have been Oscar’s imagination, but he thought she was glancing at Team 9. Of the four, only Cirno had the strength to meet her gaze. Even if Daiyousei’s eyes followed after her curiously. Was there some history between the two? She definitely seemed to recognize them…

Marisa stood with her back turned to him, before suddenly she turned. The lunge was surprisingly quick, too quick for Oscar to evade her. The hug she gave him only made the move more unnerving. Her supple arms squeezed around his dress coat under his jacket, her eyes glimmering with an innocent look. “Yer a nice guy, Osu-tan. Don’t let anyone change that about you.”

 

The witch hoisted her broomstick as she turned from him. Hopping on it, slinging one leg lazily over the side. The other folding over it. The crowd watching in awe. She seemed to reconsider then, and glanced back at Oscar. “So, one more thing. If they don’t use Danmaku in the Outside World, how do Outsider wizards settle their beef?"

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

 = We enslave magical creatures and make them fight to the death for our amusement.

 = We break the world into blocks to build competing monuments to our greatness.

 = We have friendly conversations on our couches while shooting spells at one another.

 = We play a truly complex card game as an intricate clash of our minds.

[Yumetou]

List of Commonly Accepted ‘Misconceptions’ about Outsiders

 

• The oceans on Earth are fresh water.
• Outsiders believe the Moon is made of Cheese, and the Apollo 18 mission was to determine which kind.
• Star Wars is a historic epic set sometime after the Bible but before Lord of the Rings.
• Corporations frequently fight using organized militaries, with the most recent conflicts being the Cola Wars and the Console Wars.
• Outsiders watch static on their TVs in order to communicate with the afterlife.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

 

The rush of thoughts that came at the question was a sensation Oscar still wasn’t used to. He may have been accustomed to lying in the Outside World, but that was for performance’s sake in front of small children. Now, he had to invent a convenient half-truth in mere seconds. His thoughts boiled like so many bubbles in a pot before one rose to the surface and burst.

 

“We play a truly complex card game as an intricate clash of our minds. Our wills summoning monstrous beings and sinister traps to fight in our stead.”

 

That was one way to describe Yu-Gi-Oh.

 

“Huh. Neato.” Marisa responded after a moment of thought. “You’ll have to teach it sometime. See you, Osu-san!”

 

With a backwards wave, the shimmering witch took a seat upon her broom. Before it surged into the blue sky overhead. The black and white dot slowly vanishing overhead. As the people in the street turned into ants, and then were swallowed by the receding town, she turned ahead with a sigh. The girl in the raincoat had unearthed memories she thought she had made peace with. Marisa had long ago assumed her surrogate mother had simply died after her disappearance. But if what the raincoat girl said was true…

 

A cold chill ran over her at the thought, unsure what she could expect. If she should be excited or afraid…

 

Oh well. It was Osu-san’s problem now.

 

The name flashing in her mind drew her attention back to the present. Her eyes opened, tongue drifting to the side of her mouth as she reached for her pocket. Pulling out the worn black wallet inside. Eyes shimmered with excitement. Marisa may not have recognized it, but it was almost certainly a money bag of some sort. Her suspicions were confirmed as she opened it, finding a handful of green bills she readily stuffed into her pocket. Outsider currency may not be exchanged like Mon, but it still had its use as promissory notes. There were other things inside the wallet as well however. Perhaps there was even an artifact she could use. There was a card with his picture, looking markedly different, with strange letters that shimmered in the sun. Another had the image of a book on it...a key to his library perhaps? It was as she was emptying the wallet, that she noticed the last thing inside. And nearly fell from her broom

 

“Huh?”

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

Oscar let out a slow breath. The tension around the near-battlefield simmering as Marisa vanished. The students watched for a moment, before they let out a cheer. Rushing towards him in a chorus of voices.

 

“Wow mister!”

 

“Are you and Marisa friends?”

 

“Can you really summon monsters with cards?”

 

“I wanna see it!”

 

The excitement had palpably returned. Bright and shining faces looked up at him with fresh wonder. The rush was familiar. One he might have enjoyed if he had any idea how he was going to calm the situation. It was with no little relief that the school bell chimed. Calling the students back to class. The youngsters turned, racing back towards the school building. The Outsider watching them go with a smile, before he bent down to collect his things. His mind was turned from cleanup again as a small hand took his cape, giving it a gentle pull. The red-haired child looked up at him. His sharp, long nose framing brown eyes filled with wonder.

 

“You’ll be back tomorrow mister, right?”

 

The correct answer was one he doubted the child would like. So Oscar only smiled down at him. “If the winds of fate bring us together, then I shall.”

 

The answer seemed to satisfy the child. Leaving Oscar with his sleepy, disguised friends and the unflappable Agappa. It was only then Oscar allowed himself a sigh. Reaching a hand into his pocket to pull out the string of coins he had collected. “No idea if this is enough to eat on, but I guess we’ll find out.”

 

“Huh?” The heads of the four girls all seemed to crook in concern, each to varying degrees. Daiyousei’s was the most normal, while Cirno’s face was almost sideways, threatening to let her wig fall again.

 

“Have you had nothing to eat?” Mystia asked softly.

 

Oscar’s first instinct was to put on a brave face. The four of them might be new acquaintances, but they had always treated him like a friend, and he didn’t want to worry them. The building complaints of his empty stomach however forced the truth from his lips.

 

“Not since before we met.”

 

“Oh, why didn’t you say so?” Cirno asked. Lips blossoming in fresh optimism. As though completing her thought, the Night Sparrow nodded beneath her long brown hair. “My shop is nearby. I can make you something. I’m not sure what you will like but...most people like it. What would you like?”

 

The promise of food brought with it a fresh smile on Oscar’s face. After a few more formalities, the four led on towards the ‘izakaya’. So excited was he, Oscar did not notice the missing weight in his jacket. Nor the figure of Agappa gazing at the distant speck that was Marisa. One of her hands raised, following the drifting witch.

 

“Threatening an agent of the Yamas. Punishment, misfortune.”

 

Her low and dolorous voice passed like an ominous wind. Before she turned to follow the others.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

New Quests Added: Find Rumia, Decipher Prophecy

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The nice bird woman wants to cook you lunch. What are you in the mood for? (Rolls using this choice have an additional two points until nightfall)

 

 = Fish sharpens the mind and rice fills the belly. Sushi please.

 = Food is only as good as the people you share it with. Tempura please!

 = I dunno how this ties to occultism but Onigiri please.

 = Hey Mystia, you know about Barbeque, right? Do you know any other Outside World dishes? 

[Yumetou]

Restaurants in the Human Village

Azuma no Pizza-Ya: Gensokyo and New York style Pizzas $/$$$$

Bel Air Diner: Classic American Cuisine $$$

El Lugar: Mexican and Latin Street Food specializing in Tacos $

Geidontei: Japanese Pub Food $$

Ice Fairy-ctory: Shaved Ice and Ice Cream $$$

Mystia's Izakaya: Japanese Cuisine $

 

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

Yet again, Oscar found himself plodding along with the cheery set of companions, his stomach desperately calling out for food. With the adrenaline of the previous day worn off, he had no presence of mind to pay any attention to the others. To overhear their in-jokes, or watch the way Daiyousei and the others kept reminding Cirno not to fly. His hunger pressed in on him. Filling his senses as he followed along with them. And so he entirely missed the small building of bamboo wood that sat on the side of the road. It didn't have a door or any true obstacle keeping intruders out, and so Mystia simply walked inside with a smile and set to work.

 

"It will just take a few moments. What would you like to eat Os..."

 

She paused, noticing in her excitement at last that Oscar was missing. It took four calls before his attention returned to the present, and he wandered his way back. Trying not to think overmuch of his stomach as he took a seat on one of the stools at the outdoor bar. Wriggle took a seat at his right with a self-assured huff. Cirno sat down on his left with a broad grin. At least until Agappa strolled beside her. In an instant, Cirno leaped across the bar for safety. Slamming into Wriggle with enough force to make them both fall from the stool. Agappa simply took the now free seat with a dull expression. Mystia tried to manage a gentle smile. "So, umm...what would you like to eat Osu-san?"

 

The question that had been on his mind for miles. Part of him wanted to simply start naming foods until he ran out of breath. Well, it would be better to choose food she actually knew. His eyes went up to what was presumably the menu. Before blinking in surprise. In his adventures so far, he had not questioned overmuch how everyone spoke the same language he did. It was a mystery, but one of the more banal of the many he was juggling. So, he accepted everyone he met spoke English. But the shapes and curves of the letters that greeted him, were definitely not English...

 

Another mystery to add to the pile. Well, he could remember a Japanese restaurant's menu by memory...right?

 

"Ahaha, ahh how about erm, tempura?"

 

Normally, sushi was a mood food. The idea of simply sucking down cold rice and fish was the kind of thing he needed the right atmosphere for. Tempura, on the other hand, sounded like paradise. Even if Team 9 could present him with a plate of wasps and a block of ice and he'd consider eating it. Mystia nodded, before diving into the cooking. In spite of the long shadows under her eyes, she moved with a singular grace around the kitchen. It was not long before the rice pot was happily bubbling, and her hands were rapidly chopping up vegetables. Oils and ingredients splashed in pans with a merry hiss as she busied herself with her work. After a few moments, Mystia returned with a set of small bowls, each filled with a murky, watery soup. Placing it before each of them. Cirno's eyes delighted at them.

 

"Ahh, Ice Soup! My favorite!"

 

Wriggle did her best to ignore the friend sharing her stool as Cirno began to freeze the dish. Blowing on her own. Agappa held her hands together in a little prayer. Daiyousei only watched the others with a smile. Oblivious as Oscar raised the bowl to his lips. Draining the bowl in an instant. There was little to it. Some tofu and herbs. But even that little was a relief after his ordeals.

 

"What do you think Agappa's poem was about?"

 

Daiyousei's question brought his mind back to the present. His green eyes went to her. The space was silent save for the low sound of soup sips, the gentle bubble of the rice pot, and Cirno triumphantly licking the frozen soup at the end of her spoon. Wriggle's eyes were also on Daiyousei, and even Agappa watched pensively. The memory of his promise played in his head, though it wasn't one he cared to dwell on. A hand rose to rub the back of his neck.

 

"No idea...sounded like a prophecy or fortune though. Do you know anyone who could decipher it?"

 

"Besides you?"

 

The question was answer enough. Aided as it was by the quiet confidence of his new friends. "Fortune telling's a little...outside, my normal field."

 

"Can't say people are big on fortunes in Gensokyo," Wriggle said, blowing on a spoonful of soup. "What's a prophecy?"

 

"Ahh...its like a fortune which is going to happen in the future. Usually something very important."

 

"Huh." The general sentiment was echoed by the others. All except Cirno, who was slowly starting to chomp on the ice. Wriggle leaned her head on an arm. Ignoring the creeping sensation running down her spine saying Agappa was staring at her. "I can't say any of us know Marisa well. Cirno's probably the closest with her friends, but she is close friends with the Shrine Maiden. Maybe the Hakurei Shrine would be a good place to start."

 

"N-no," Daiyousei replied, shaking her head. "I don't think Reimu would just tell a stranger, or even Cirno, about her friend's mother..."

 

"Maybe Alice then? They're as close as Reimu and Marisa."

 

"She almost never leaves her house now..."

 

"I GOT IT!" Cirno exclaimed triumphantly. Slamming her now empty spoon on the counter as she munched on the remains of her miso popsicle. "You said prophecies are like magic, right Osu-san? I know a place where they know all about magic! The librarian's friends with Marisa too, so its a win-win!"

 

"Wasn't Meiling-sama told to keep you out after you joined the Maid Corps and dr--"

 

The glare Cirno responded with could have frozen the blood. Fortunately, Mystia returned. A place of tempura piled high as she set them in front of the group. Fish, chicken and vegetables, all prepared to crispy perfection. "Here you are...I don't know much about magic or fortunes, Osu-san. But if Agappa said it, it must be related to the Yamas...there used to be a fortune teller in town here. Until he--"

 

"Mystia, don't--"

 

"They boarded up his old shop, but never tore it down. Maybe there's something there that can help you? Or maybe at the rental library here in town? That'll be much safer than wandering outside the village where you could be attacked..."

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

 = The rental library is nearby and we have a little money. Let's start there.

 =The Hakurei Shrine Maiden sounds pleasant, and she knows Cirno!

 = Let's hope your fortunes are brighter than the Fortune Teller...

 =This 'magical library' sounds like a good resource. If we can finagle our way inside.

 = Back into the Forest? It will be an easier trip in the daylight, right?

[Yumetou]

On Youkai in the Human Villages

 

In spite of its name, there are a number of Youkai who live inside the Human Village, or visit for its services. As the Village is well protected by the Myouren Temple, Otherworldly Ventures Extermination Division and the Incident Resolvers, most of these Youkai are benign and relatively friendly. However, their presence is feared and hated among many Natives who see them as intrusive or possibly dangerous. As such, most Youkai attempt to disguise themselves, or obfuscate their lack of humanity.

Youkai can normally be found around the Myouren Temple, with Buddhism being a draw for them. Likewise, a smaller number may be found around the All Souls Chapel and the Outsider Quarter in general. Drawn either by the promise of religious acceptance or a sense of kinship with those not ‘pure’ enough for some villagers’ liking.

In general, it is discouraged from naming these Youkai or drawing attention to them in public. While some Natives are accepting of them, others will find their presence a source of alarm. In the event of suspicion falling on one, they are advised to seek shelter at the Myouren Temple, All Souls Chapel or the Hakurei Shrine. If however you suspect a Youkai of being malicious, it is best you alert the Incident Resolvers listed in the back glossary, or contact the Extermination Division.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

Chopsticks weren’t exactly a tool Oscar was used to. In fact, he ate the majority of his meal by hand rather than just with the chopsticks. Still, the clatter they made as they struck against the plate was pleasant. As pleasant as the warmth in his now full belly. For a few moments, the world around him didn’t matter. It didn’t matter he was poor, in a strange place, or had to sleep on a smelly old mattress. He was fed and surrounded by the closest thing he had to friends. Most of all, he was happy.

 

“Ahh…” The stage magician sighed to himself.

 

“Ahh…” The figures around him echoed, as though in agreement. Cirno lay with her back on the stool, limbs splayed to all sides. Wriggle leaned one elbow on the counter. Trying to pick at her teeth when she thought no one was looking. Mystia looked very satisfied as she idly crunched on a deep fried green bean across the counter. Daiyousei rubbed at her petite belly with both hands, eyes closed. And Agappa…

 

...Was picking up crumbs to eat with her chopsticks.

 

As the day’s heat roiled all around them, the six of them sat in the shade. Savoring the weight in their bellies. Each of them had other things to do, he was sure. By the sounds of it, the four of them were normally in bed at this hour. They’d all made a lot of dishes for Mystia to deal with. And he had his own growing list of tasks to work on. But for a few moments more, they could all revel in their common happiness.

 

It was Mystia who broke the silence, taking their dishes one by one as she brought them over to the sink to be washed. The warmth in the atmosphere was still there, but reality now seeped in around it. For a moment, Oscar pondered to himself. “Hey Mystia...do you need some help with the dishes?”

 

“No, its fine.” She hummed back. Glancing back towards him with a smile. “After I’m done with them, I put them in a basin full of soap. That way they’re easier to wash when I get back to them in the evening.”

 

...It seemed across time and space, no one ever wanted to do dishes. Not even the mistress of the Night Sparrow Dining Hall.

 

“Well...I guess I should go to check out the Fortune Teller’s home.”

 

A familiar weighty silence dawned once more over the group. As sinister and pressing as any mention of Kimiko or Agappa-chan. As usual, it was Cirno who replied first. “Great! Maybe he left some nasty hexes around! I’ll freeze them with a wave of the hand.”

 

The energetic fairy waved one hand overhead from where she lay with an adventurous grin. A moment before she slipped from her chair with a cry. Wriggle, resigned to not getting the tempura out of her teeth for now, let out a sigh. “I’ll come too. I don’t want you to get lost again like last night.”

 

“Then let’s go!” Cirno said, standing up, one arm thrust into the air. “Dai-chan, you coming?”

 

“I...think a cursed youkai den is too much for me.” Daiyousei replied, looking unsettled as she did. “I think I’ll go back to Heida and get some sleep.”

 

“You and Osu-san are so brave, Cirno.” Mystia rejoined with a smile. One that made Wriggle’s brow furrow in displeasure. “I’m tired too. I’ll go with Daiyousei back to the temple.”

 

Oscar’s eyes next went to Agappa. The figure in her bright yellow raincoat said nothing. Only nodding in reply.

 

“Then we’re off! Adventure awaits!” The irrepressible ice fairy cheered. Before boldly leading Oscar, Wriggle and Agappa back into the village. Indeed, so determined was she that it took him half an hour to realize she had no idea where they were going…

Cirno was saved the act of admitting her failure when the sight of a homestead, not far from the main road, came into view. It was similar to its neighbors. Not a replica like so many homes in urban or suburban America were, but its distinctions would have been subtle. Were it not in such a state of disrepair. The paper doors were shedding, the roof tiles falling. Weeds sprouted around a fallen stand in front of the building, and ugly stains were flecked onto the sign overhead. Purity seals were placed over the entrances and windows. Faded from many long months in the sun. The building simply sat there, like the corpse of an animal on the side of the road. Its bleak windows staring like empty sockets down at the four…

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

How do we get in?

 

 = "Here girls, let me show you what a 'rope trick' is."

 = "C'mon, let's try the front door."

 = "The windows are too obvious, and high up. Maybe there's a cellar entrance of some kind."

 = "Life has many entrances, if you know how to make them."

 

Edited September 9, 2024 by Yumetou

[Yumetou]

On Exploration

Urban exploration may be a popular pass time in the Outside World. But exploring structures in Gensokyo is an entirely different matter. There are all manner of buildings in Gensokyo. From Japanese manors, to forgotten temples, to unknown ruins from Earth or Makai. For the enterprising explorer, this may seem like a wonderful opportunity for riches and adventure. However I must impress on you one piece of advice:

Don't.

In addition to natural hazards of exploration in the Outside World like mold, wild animals or instability, very few buildings in Gensokyo are truly abandoned. Spirits may dwell in structures they lived in when alive. Fairies may be drawn to it as a source of natural rejuvenation. And Youkai are often born from unlikely sources. Anything from an old shoe to the building itself may manifest as a Youkai. Such danger is not worth a handful of forgotten Mon or a tome of magic which will likely curse you anyway. Adventures like this are best left to the Otherworldly Ventures Acquisitions Department. This group of well equipped humans, youkai and fairies act as a way to explore and gather lost knowledge. Alerting Otherworldly Ventures to the existence of a prosperous ruin or source of magic however may be enough to make you rich. As a finder's fee, OV offers 10% 5% 1% of all profits from a successful expedition to a ruin, as well as part of the profit if the structure can be renovated and sold.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

Their entrance into the home was simple enough. Even with the doors and windows closed and locked, there was a way in. If people who could fly were as rare as he hoped in the village, it was doubtful the townsfolk thought to block off the rickety veranda that surrounded the small house and overlooked the town. The only question was, how to get up there…A smile crossed his face as he turned back to the others. Wriggle looked warily up at the structure as if it would come alive at any moment. Cirno silently scanned the windows. Agappa just stared up at him.

 

“I’ve got a plan to get inside.”

 

Cirno glanced over at him, her brow furrowing as if he said something stupid. The implication was one he strangely found himself resenting. “Whaddu mean Osu? We’re just gonna fly right up there. Like thi--”

 

No sooner had her feet started to leave the ground than Oscar felt his blood go cold. Wriggle seemed to have the exact same thought as he. Her arm rose, grabbing Cirno by the back of her kimono and pulling her back down to earth with a start. The ice fairy letting out a startled cry as she did. Wriggle gave her a look much like Cirno just gave him. Letting Oscar recover some of his pride. “Cirno! We’re supposed to be disguised! What’re the humans going to think if we just fly up there?”

 

Cirno didn’t respond. Too preoccupied was she with rubbing her head, despite landing on her rear. Oscar shook his head. Reaching into his coat. “Here girls. Let me show you what an ‘Indian Rope Trick’ is.”

 

The trick was a staple of early 20^th century showmanship, though the technique could often vary wildly. The original trick was said to come from India and involved a magician making a rope go rigid. An assistant would then climb up, disappearing from view. Before the magician cut the rope, only to have it fall to the ground. In reality, how the trick worked varied from showman to showman. He had seen everything from a fishing wire on a stage to a special robotic rope used to achieve the effect in stage performances. But personally, he preferred the older method.

The rope he pulled from his side looked fairly unassuming. Perhaps a little stiff, but otherwise mundane. Carefully though, his fingers worked at the base. Pulling a hidden ribbon at its end. Instantly, the sets of cords inside went taunt. Pulling on the network of bamboo pieces inside. In a moment, the rope went rigid. Allowing him to lean it against the veranda. Before gesturing to it with a smile. Agappa stared with wide eyes. Wriggle’s brow raised. Cirno clapped her hands.

 

“Great! And this will let us get up to there together?”

 

“That’s right, I--”

 

“How does it work?”

 

“Well a magician never reveals his--”

 

“I think she means how does it help us get up there, Osu.”

 

“We’ll take turns climbing the rope and use that to get into the Fortune Teller’s place.”

 

Cirno stared for a moment. Before glancing back at Wriggle. “Climbing’s what frogs and squirrels do, right?”

 

“Yep.”

 

“...That’s not much of a magic trick Osu.”

 

At that, Oscar could only roll his eyes before grasping at the rope. Propped up like this, his climbing position was precarious, and he had never been the most confident in its strength. But the old bamboo held. His way was sped up as he kicked against the wall as well. Until he reached the old balcony. An unstable thing, rotted from years of neglect. Easing himself carefully over the edge, he placed his foot down. Trying not to think too much about the very loud creak beneath his shoe.

Beneath him, Agappa hurried to the rope, and began to pull herself up. Wriggle turned to Cirno and shrugged, before following after. Her lean figure pulling herself up dexterously despite her kimono. Cirno looked up at the rope, peeved. Glanced around. Then, grasping it with one hand, hovered her way up.

 

By the time she reached the veranda, Oscar had already found the window unlocked and opened it. The group of four friends seemed to be in what was formerly a bedroom. Tatami mats rotted on the floor. Furniture sat thick with dust. Mildew clung to the unmade bed and the moth-eaten clothes. The floor was rotten, and creaked unnaturally underfoot.

As Cirno slipped inside, she could see Agappa rummaging through a set of drawers nearby. Stuffing abandoned knick-knacks and faded rags into the handbag around her neck. Wriggle was crouched over, and seemed to be having an intense argument with a roach. And over it all, Oscar looked around. He was nervous, but the arrival of the fearless Cirno steadied him a little. Outside past torn and yellowed paper doors, he could see two floors, an indoor veranda circling a depression in the floor, the ground there charred. Rooms long forgotten stretched out to either side of them as he neared the door from the bedroom.

 

“What now?” Wriggle asked, giving up on her altercation.

 

“Its probably best if we split up. We’ll cover more ground that way.”

 

“Great idea!” Cirno said with a smile. “We’ll all go different ways and--”

 

“No.” Agappa said flatly. Wriggle nodded, crossing her arms.

 

“For once, I agree with the...ah, bad luck friend. I’m not going through the house of a Jinyou by myself.”

 

“...But you’ve got your bug friends to protect you!”

 

The exasperated look Wriggle gave seemed to leave no impression on Cirno. Even if it was nice not to have it directed at him in that moment. His hand patted her wig, temporarily forgetting it wasn't her real hair. The girl just pouted in reply.

 

“Its alright Wriggle. We’ll split into two groups. If one of us runs into trouble, we can find each other. Its a small house.”

 

The concession seemed to be enough. With a resigned sigh Wriggle closed her eyes and dropped the argument. Agappa nodded in agreement. All that was left was to decide who to go with…

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

 = Wriggle's ability to communicate with insects may come in handy here. She's also strong for her size and energetic which helps.

 = Cirno may not be able to freeze curses like she hopes, but her courage counts for a lot. She'd never leave her friends behind.

 = Agappa can inflict misfortune on others. That probably means she can deal with any misfortune we find...probably...

 = If you want to build your legacy as a great wizard, you have to learn to do a few things on your own. Its just a spooky old house.

Edited September 16, 2024 by Yumetou

[Yumetou]

Fortune Telling

While there is a place for Western divination practices such as Tarot Cards, Crystal Balls and Palm Reading, most fortune telling is rooted in Japanese and to a lesser degree Chinese practices. Many of these are extremely old, some possibly dating to before the end of the last Ice Age. In broad strokes, these include:

Itako, a process where blind women are raised to become spiritual mediums with a patron Kami. By having cold water poured over them daily. By completing the process, they can speak with gods, spirits and the dead.

Kokkuri, a tilting table used to summon Kokkuri-san. An animal spirit which acts as a medium to the spiritual plane. Kokkuri-san will tilt the plate beneath the table in answer to the questions asked, though his honesty or intentions are not always pure.

Omikuji, random fortunes contained in boxes at temples. You pay a fee, and in exchange are provided the randomized fortune. If the fortune is poor, it can be evaded by tying it to a pine tree, thus leading the bad luck to the tree instead of the holder.

Onmyōdō, utilizing calendars and astronomy to determine the fortune tied to specific places, directions and actions. A highly sophisticated system, those who knew its use were often found in noble courts in feudal Japan.

Sanpaku, a form of face reading where studying the eyes can give the reader insight into a person's health and prospects.

Tengenjutsu, a complex system of sixty rotating words involving Yin and Yang, the five Elements, your birthday and your physical appearance.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

"TRIAL OF FORTUNE! Never fear, fellow Kami! I, Yorigami Joon, shall break this tie with a flip of a coin! Heads, Cirno wins. Tails, Agappa wins!

 

*Ting*

 

BWAHAHA! The Maiden of Misfortune triumphs! That'll be 1 Ryu."

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The question was a difficult one. After all, each had their own advantages. Despite her occasional grumpy disposition, Wriggle had been a fair companion to him and her ability to communicate with insects may have been handy.

Cirno was brave, if headstrong. Oscar had no idea if she could actually freeze a ghost. But he was sure at least she was absolutely confident she could.

Then there was Agappa. Of all the group, she was the least expressive. Which did at least mean she hadn't picked at him. Her blank stares may have been disturbing. But in a building owned by a Fortune Teller, wouldn't her powers come in handy?

 

Also he didn't think Wriggle would be comfortable being alone with her.

 

"Alright. Cirno and Wriggle, you check that way. Agappa and I will go the other way."

 

The Ice Fairy gave a thumbs up, along with a confident smile. Over her shoulder, Wriggle's face seemed to soften. For a moment, he even thought he saw her mouth 'thank you' before she turned. Sweeping her cape with her as she and Cirno started along the broken wooden walkway. The planks underfoot creaking far less than they would have under Oscar's feet. He turned to Agappa. Who regarded him beneath the hood of her raincoat with a passive stare. Her mouth slightly ajar as usual. Oscar took in a low, slow breath. Before forcing a smile. "Alright, let's go."

 

She only nodded. Letting him lead the way. The walls here were pain, flecked with dust and little else. The boards under his feet were in a poor condition, and likely had been even when this place was inhabited. They let out creaks and groans of protest with his every footfall. Which he did his best to ignore as he crept towards the nearest door. The paper set in the door had yellowed some time ago, and holes had begun to tear in them...

 

He took another step forward. And realized there was a weight on him. Agappa was clinging to the back of his suit jacket. Her face pressed against the small of his back as though terrified. The gesture may have been endearing were it not so odd...

 

"What's the matter?"

 

The question hung in the air. Patiently waiting an answer that didn't come. Eventually, a fearful arm rose and pointed at the door. Her eyes failing to open for a second. The baffling display left the overwhelming question...what now?

 

 = Cast a 'spell' or 'charm' which will fool Agappa into thinking the room is gone.

 = Give Agappa a pep talk and see if you can get her to tell you what's wrong.

 = Let's...avoid this door for now. Walk past it.

 = Let her cling on to you and press forward. You're strong enough to drag her behind you.

[Yumetou]

Tsukumogami

Meaning 'Haunted Tools', this name is somewhat misleading as these Yokai may not be tools as Westerners think of them. They are lesser Youkai who usually appear after an item has reached 100 years of age, or has received significant neglect. The traits of a Tsukumogami vary from item to item affected. They are generally a minor Youkai, and seldom do more than try to frighten humans. Though some more powerful spirits sometimes disguise themselves as these benign entities to seem harmless.

Examples Elsewhere:

Bakezori (Straw Sandals)

Biwabokuboku (Biwa, or stringed instrument)

Chochin Obake (Paper Lantern)

Hone Karakasa (Skeleton Umbrella)

Kameosa (Earthware Jars)

Karakasa Obake (Umbrella)

Kotofurunushi (Koto, a kind of stringed instrument)

Mokumokukuren (Paper Doors and Windows)

Shami Choro (Shamisen, a kind of stringed insturment)

Ungaikyō (Mirrors)

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

Moments like this made Oscar question how he had gotten to this point. His mind went over the past two days, flitting over each individual choice. And how it lead to him scaling an abandoned—possibly cursed—house to search for clues. To a cryptic poem. Recited by the weirdo grasping at his leg. Deep breaths Oscar. Deep breaths.

 

“Agappa,” He said, willing the full extent of his patience into place. Part of his mind pretending Agappa was younger than she was. “Use your words. What is wrong? Tell me.”

 

Nervously, she just extended her hand, pointing again. It was a moment or two more before she managed a word. “Eyes.”

 

“Eyes?”

 

“Eyes.”

 

“Where?”

 

“Shōji.”

 

“What the hell is Shoji?”

 

Her hand thrust again to the door with its faded paper. The small and torn paper sagging. He took a slow breath. His hands giving up on freeing himself to instead rest on her shoulders. Her arms clung unnaturally tight to his leg. He took another slow breath. “Okay, Agappa. There are no eyes there—”

 

“There are.”

 

“—But if there were, we have two options. We can stand here where they can stare at us, or pass them so they can’t. We can only pick one. Which do you want?”

 

“Go back.”

 

“They’ll still be staring at us then, which puts us back at our choice. Which do you want to do?”

 

Agappa was still for a moment. The only sound she made was a low whimper. Before she slowly let go. Still clinging to Oscar’s pant leg. He tried to ignore it as he led her forward. Agappa couldn’t even look up, trying to wrap herself in his cloak as best she could.

Oscar set a slow pace. Letting Agappa follow along as best she could with her eyes welled shut. It was slow going, but the only way they were getting inside. As he approached, he could see inside the dingy room were all manner of books and scrolls. Lining shelves set in place. Facing the yellowed paper of the windows was a European model of the solar system. Its many round rings were well maintained, and may have served as a reasonable display at a modern school, were it not for the fact the earth sat at the center of the cosmos. Oscar’s eyes roamed over the scrolls. Then glanced down at the girl pressing her face to his side.

 

It was then he realized just how pointless this expedition was. The chances any of the books here were written in English were almost certainly none. Any that were here would be written in Japanese and who knew what else. And while Agappa, Wriggle and Cir...Agappa and Wriggle could almost certainly read them for him, he doubted Agappa would tear her face from his side long enough to read.

 

With little other option, he began to idly glance over the books and scrolls. Trying to pick out any which might help him. It was hard going, eventually he just resorted to picking out the most worn or valuable looking options and tucking them under his arm. It was as he opened yet another book with a dingy cover, that the page fluttered open. A piece of folded paper emerged, something written upon it. Raising it to his face, the corner slipped free. Letting him see the contents.

 

It was a lock of dark hair. Tied with a red and white bow. Oscar managed to stifle his disgust as he discarded the item back onto the ground.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

With a collection of books under his arm, the rest of the home is yours to explore. Where to next?

 

 = The Fortune Teller seemed to be a busy guy. That means there's probably a storehouse on the bottom floor we can check.

 = Japanese homes are supposed to have little miniature shrines. Maybe the one here can teach us something.

 = There's sure to be an office or study room around here somewhere. Maybe it can tell us more.

 = Well, this is close enough for government work. Let's hurry to find the other two.

[Yumetou]

Inugami

‘Dog Spirit’

 

An ancient practice dating to the earliest days of Japan, Inugami are spirits of canines sacrificed in arcane rituals. From this ritual, a protective spirit is born in service of the family, who keep its mummified remains in a secret shrine, usually buried. These beings serve as bodyguards and agents. Protecting their patron from danger or sabotaging their enemies. Among their abilities are the power to manifest as a dog, invisibility, the power to strike others with illness, and the ability to affect moods or dispositions. A spiritual attack by an Inugami is difficult to repel and often requires a master sorcerer to remove. Signs of this affliction may include mood swings, pain in the chest, hands or arms, deep jealousy or taking on dog-like mannerisms.

 

Inugami are hereditary, passing from one generation to the next, and even after their master’s death they will work to serve or avenge their patron. Due to this, the practice of summoning Inugami was strictly forbidden, with even the accusation of consorting with one leading to the exile of any noble accused of having an Inugami as a familiar.

 

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

Elsewhere…

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

 

“I thought the Fortune Teller was supposed to be rich! You’d think if he was so well off, his kitchen would be nicer!”

 

Cirno scoffed at the odor of rot which flowed out of the kitchen. One hand resting over her mouth and nose in a desperate bid to keep the scent at bay. A mix of putrid meats and rotted vegetables which wafted in the room.

 

To be honest, Wriggle thought it didn’t smell half bad.

 

“He wasn’t that rich, and he’s been dead for years now anyway,” Wriggle replied back with a smile and roll of her eyes. She hovered upwards slowly, peering down into the pots beneath for anything useful. Her only warning that someone was watching her, was the sensation of something large striking her upon her back. “H-hey!”

 

She managed that much before she turned. Wings buzzing threateningly. Half expecting to see Cirno trying to prank her, or a large aggressive insect taking offense to her looking over its meal. She didn’t see anything though...Nothing except Cirno, hovering on the other side of the room in search of sweets. Her wings gave a curt buzz for the insects in the room, before returning to her search. “Its not like he’s been back here to clean up the place.”

 

“Yeah, but…” Cirno said, peering inside a ceramic pot. Which disappointingly was empty of sweets. “Someone had to be here, right? Why else would the food all be bad?”

 

The question was stupid. Really stupid. The stupidest thing she may have heard all day. She couldn’t keep it from her expression as she turned around and stared at Cirno. “What?”

 

“Yeah. I mean,” Cirno said as she turned. Absentmindedly scratching at her head while she thought aloud. “The food at my place doesn’t rot. The only insects I’ve ever seen there are your friends. Which log-ick-ally means another Youkai must have been here and brought them, right?”

 

A voice in the back of Wriggle’s mind had to admit her thoughts made logical sense from Cirno’s perspective. The sound of the voice slowly receded in her mind amid a swell of sudden anger. Cirno and she had been friends for years. And not once had she ever noticed the way her insect friends acted in the wild? She had never noticed a rotten tree or dead animal?

 

“This is why everyone thinks you are an idiot,” She said. Buzzing her wings as she gave up on the pots and stomped for the door. Cirno looked on in shock, before following after her.

 

“H-hey! You’ve never called me that before! Why did--”

 

“Why do you never pay attention to anything?”

 

“Huh?”

 

The putrid smell of the kitchen receded. Giving way to the scent of rotting wood amid the faux luxury of the crumbling mansion. Not that Wriggle saw much of it. All she could think of was the fairy hovering behind her. Staring with that same bewildered look she always did when she was awakened in class by Keine. “Can’t you take anything seriously? We’re in a house that might be cursed and you’re looking for cookies like a child! Come to think of it, why are we even here? Its all that human’s idea.”

 

“ ‘That human?’ His name is Osu, he’s our friend.”

 

“Who decided that?”

 

“He saved Rumia from Princess Plantface.”

 

“And where’s Rumia now? Still lost. But you can’t stop talking about him. Remember last night? ‘Where’s Osu-san?’ ‘I hope he doesn't get scared on his own' 'Please Osu-san don't be eaten by wild Youkai' ‘Wahahaha I lost two friends in one night! Promise you’ll never leave me Dai-chan!’.”

 

For a few moments, Cirno was left in stunned silence. Only able to stare wide-eyed as Wriggle yelled in front of her. She and Wriggle had been friends for...longer than she could count. But Cirno couldn’t ever remember her acting like this. At the mention of Rumia however, she felt her core go cold. Her hands clenched slowly. Glaring back at her friend as her small teeth ground together. “Don’t. Talk about Rumia like that! She’s out there, we just have to find her!”

 

“So why are we here? Or are you too stupid to realize his game? A random human wandering the forest in need of help? I bet he’s working with Kimiko! I think he’s a Magician who wants the Fortune Teller’s secrets, and you led him right to them!”

 

“It was Mystia’s idea you jerk!”

 

“Why are we here then Cirno? Explain it to me with your baka brai--”

 

With bitter tears freezing to her face, the ice fairy lunged her hands forward. Shoving the unsuspecting youkai against a yellowing paper door. The wood crumbled under Wriggle’s scant weight. Cirno’s expression softened, even if the tears clung to her face. Wriggle started to push herself up, so focused on the moment she didn’t notice her wave of anger had seemingly vanished. Her confusion was broken by the sound of something shuffling behind her.

Her antennae bobbed as she gazed into the gloom. Cirno, sensing a shift in mood, peered around her into the dark. Before a hideous face emerged from the dark. It was a deep blue, bulbous, atop the frame of a man. At first glance, the face had far too many folds. Though this impression was proven wrong as six, spread at random across its face, opened. Piercing gazes fixed themselves on the two. One eye red, two orange, and three yellow.

 

“Would you like to hang from your neck?”

 

The two friends screamed in alarm. Their argument forgotten as they clung to one another.

 

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

 

Oscar turned to Agappa with a smile. The bulk of the books under his arms were difficult, but he thought he had a good grip on them. She clung to him, not even glancing up at him. “Well Agappa, I think that’s close enough for government work. Let’s find the others and--”

 

The scream of the two cut through the library in an instant. Oscar didn’t need to guess who had screamed. Nor how serious the situation must have been for the two to be so frightened. He rushed from the room, practically taking Agappa off her feet as he rushed out into the courtyard. Not noticing the crease in the paper set in the wall as it opened to watch him run.

 

 

His shoes were not meant for his dead sprint, but they loudly rang against the crumbling wood as he scrambled down the stairs towards the sound of the screams. The two huddled together like lost children in the hallway, staring as a hulking figure approached them. He wasn't much taller than they were, and was only slightly larger in build. Were it not for his head, which was as tall as his body. A pair of orange eyes gazed piercingly at them from a dark blue face. One on the right of its forehead and the other almost sliding down its left cheek as it spoke.

 

"Would you like to hang from your neck?"

 

The figure was frightening, even if it had not noticed him. Indeed, so startling was it, that Oscar almost failed to notice the shape of a dog's skull circling Wriggle overhead.

 

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

What now?

 

 = The door is already on the ground, and Wriggle was lying on it. Was this monster really trapped by just a paper door?

 = Maybe greeting the creature will give you the chance to talk it down?

 = Quick, grab the grimoire you won from Marisa and read what's inside! It might intimidate the monster.

 = The monster's distracted. Throw a flash bomb and blind it, then grab your friends and run.

 

Edited October 15, 2024 by Yumetou

[Yumetou]

Ao Bozu

‘Blue Monk’

 

An enigmatic Youkai with a multitude of descriptions. To some it is a towering blue-skinned giant. To others, it is a small child. They can be virtually any size, with any number of eyes, in any number of locations. This enigmatic and contradictory being was first recorded by Toriyama Sekien, with only its name as a description. Its color denotes inexperience or immaturity, making its full name a commentary on the unskilled novices of the Buddhist priesthood.

 

Ao Bozu may appear in barley, millet or wheat fields during sunset. Here they wait for children to snatch and kidnap. Other times they are human-sized figures who appear late at night down dark streets. Terrorizing women and children with the question ‘Would you like to hang by your neck?’ If one refuses, it vanishes. If ignored, it will attack with surprising speed. Other times they are giants who appear in abandoned homes, or child-sized travelers who challenge wanderers to sumo-wrestling contests. Due to its unknown nature and varied attributes, it is wise to treat this Youkai with extreme caution.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

As the figure lumbered forward into the hall, Oscar could feel Agappa letting go of his leg. Scurrying as quickly as she could, she dove for one of the pillars, scrambling her way up towards the supportive struts overhead. The sorcerer didn’t have time to get her down. The shambling beast was approaching his two friends fast.

 

The frightened pair was shaken from their terror as Cirno’s face hardened. Interposing herself between the awkward giant and Wriggle, she held out a hand. Cold mustering in her palm as she focused all the energy that she could into it. She didn’t have time for Perfect Freeze, and she doubted anything else would really stop it. But she had to try. Ice formed in the palm of her hand, magic pulling water from the air and the rot in the walls. The familiar warmth built in her chest as she pulled all she could. Teeth gritting as those eyes glowered down at her.

 

“Would you like to hang by your--”

 

In an instant, the flare of a red satin cape engulfed the two of them as Oscar stood over the two. His hands thrust out, the gloved hands making a set of motions before his palms extended towards the lumbering blue face which crept ever closer.

 

“SHAZAM!”

 

A sound like thunder burst from the man’s hand. A flare of light more like lightning than a lantern or fire. The beast roared. Hands rising to its eyes. Before the arms of Oscar surrounded the two, and he ran.

His fancy shoes rang out on the wooden floor as he sprinted. Cape billowing after him doing little favors. Cirno hung from under one arm, her half-formed ice magic in one hand. Wriggle held under the other. Cirno was still stunned from everything that had happened, from her fight with Wriggle to their escape. The youkai on the other hand was faster to regain her senses. She glared up at Oscar, a low growl escaping her.

“Are you going to stop running and fight that youkai?!”

 

“Working on it.”

 

The answer wasn’t his best. But it was the best he could manage. Even as he spoke, he heard a roar rising as though from three throats. The thing lumbered after him blindly. Using a long, powerful forearm to propel itself with surprising grace to compensate for its less impressive limbs. Oscar dared not look back as wooden beams snapped behind him, and stone jars shattered. Rooms whipping by to either side. The thing roaring after him.

 

“I will hang you by your neck!”

 

He raced on, passing rooms long ago left to barren neglect. There was a warehouse full of rotten wooden boxes, a room with a low table and faded screens. And a low room that descended down a set of stairs into a dark foreboding atmosphere.

 

Of course, there were other routes. The yellowed paper walls tinting the light a sickly yellow, could always simply be broken through. Or he could just return the way he came up the stairs. Or he could try something a little more tricky…

 

Whatever it was, he knew he should do it fast. The monster was getting closer…

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

 = "Don't worry girls! We will lose him in the mason jars! He'll never find the right one."

 = "But Mister Youkai...I have no neck!"

 = "Cirno! We're running by the cellar stairs again. I need you to freeze the ground in front of it!"

 = "Hold on tight girls! We're breaking through the wall out into the street!"

[Yumetou]

Wages in Gensokyo

 

We have in brief gone over the monetary system used in Gensokyo. One consistent question from Outsiders however is, what should be considered a 'living wage' in Gensokyo. Alas, such things are not so simple in this world. Most forms of work in Gensokyo are manual labor. Farming, fishing, wood cutting. These occupations seldom make enough money to compensate workers in cash. Typically they are instead payed in food or wares, which can then be bartered or traded for coin or other goods. Often, your employer will also furnish food and living arrangements for their employee. Though this may be as simple as a blanket in a warm corner of the house or a loft, to a spare bedroom. Provisions and bedding vary from employer to employer, and the onus is often on the worker to decide if their situation is acceptable.

The Otherworldly Ventures Division of Labor exists as a source of relief however for any possible wronged individuals. In return for a small service fee (equal to your last week's pay), we will happily determine if your present living situations are acceptable, and negotiate with your employer. We also are able to find you positions elsewhere in our network (for a fee equal to half a week's wages for the first month). Otherworldly Ventures employs and has connections to everything from farmers to merchants and temples. There is sure to be a job that fits YOU in Gensokyo!

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

“Ohohoho, it looks like you useless kami can’t decide what this loser should do! Never fear, Jo’on is here to guide you. Heads, he is headless! Tails he has the blue fairy do his dirty work. The Ryu, please.”

 

*ting*

 

“Heads! Hope his comes off.”

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The rumbling from behind him was growing louder. Wood splintering as the lanky beast tore after him. Its oversided fist smashing through the floor. Oscar tried to ignore it. His gaze remaining on the door to the kitchen.

 

“Cirno, Wriggle, I’m going to throw you up to Agappa. You two stay up there until I deal with this guy.”

 

“W-what?” The question spilled from Cirno’s lips with surprising earnestness. Her eyes, still ringed with frozen tears, gazed up at him. Her small hands grasping at his jacket. “You can’t do that Osu! I’ve already lost a friend. I don’t...I can’t…”

 

“Hey, its okay.” He replied. The welling tears in her eyes made him glad he was such a good showman. Oscar doubted he could lie to a friend’s crying face. He smiled broadly, even managing a wink. “I’m Oscar Diggs, the great and powerful. Nothing can go wrong when I’m around.”

 

Wriggle let out a huff. Cirno looked almost ready to start sobbing again.

 

“Do you promise?”

 

“I promise I will be back.”

 

The reassurance in his voice fooled even him as he heaved his arms up. Throwing either of the two smaller girls towards the rafters, where overhead Agappa gazed with bleary eyes. Wriggle drifted upwards effortlessly. Cirno floated in place, gazing down with nervous eyes as Oscar dove into the kitchen. The beast in hot pursuit…

 

 

 

The door thudded loudly as it shifted behind him. The door of rotted wood doing little to reassure him of his safety. In an instant, he threw himself into securing the doorway. A piece of firewood rammed into the sliding frame. Heavy earthen pots filled with scents he dared not think about slid into place. Scarcely a moment too soon. The lumbering thing rammed against the door, scarcely holding. With a few moments to himself, his eyes cast around the space, scrambling as he pulled his phone from his pocket. 18% power. Just enough for this stunt. Plugging in the appropriate add-on, he glanced around the room. Finding what he wanted more by the acrid scent of rotting meat than any logic. The piece of dried meat was beginning to age, but even the rot on it was not as strong as the air around it. This would do nicely…

 

All he had to do was record.

 

The door splintered. Shuddering on its frame before it fell away. The formidable shape elbowing its way through the door. Before him, the cocksure wizard stood. A willful smile on his face.

 

“The monster at last arrives, to face the champion of legend.”

 

“Silence! I will hang you by your neck!”

 

The smile on his face, if anything, seemed to grow wider. Even as the lumbering thing drew nearer, he spread his arms to either side. “But Mister Youkai...I have no neck.”

 

A low, soft but growing laugh escaped his lips at those words. His head in its top hat began to sway, shifting unnaturally from side to side. Until it seemed to fully detach. His curly brown hair swaying with the motion, revealing a mass of putrid dried meat where his neck should have been.

 

The beast stared with its yellow eyes, the red and orange ones closed for now. Gazing at the face drifting overhead. That laugh of his ringing in his ears. The monster raised a hand, shaking just a little as he did, before grasping at the figure.

 

Only to see his fingers move straight through it.

 

Oscar’s laughter redoubled as the monster turned. Sprinting from the room in alarm. The room was still for a moment, before Oscar stepped from a darkened corner of the room, where his cloak had been wrapped around him. He sighed with relief as he gathered up his phone, the mobile projector beside it still glowing as his laughing face faded.

 

The youkai and fairy watched form their perch overhead as the monster lumbered into the room. A moment later, it came sprinting from the kitchen. Its orange eyes closed, the yellow and red looking around in sudden fright as it fled towards the darkened halls. A moment later, Oscar emerged. One hand brushing at his cape. Cirno descended, happiness etched into her finer features. Wriggle, at least, did not look completely displeased. Agappa had her same expression as usual.

 

“O-Osu! Are you okay? That youkai didn’t eat you did he?”

 

“Hmph, why didn’t you destroy him?”

 

“Nice to see you’re alive too Wriggle.”

 

Despite Wriggle’s renewed hostility, Oscar found he couldn’t stop smiling. His hand rose. Brushing affectionately at Cirno’s hair even as Agappa slid down to join them. “Now little ladies, I think its time we get out of here.”

 

“Bright thinking, Mister Great and Powerful. How are we going to do that?”

 

That...was a good question. And that Youkai was still in here somewhere...

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

What next?

 

 =Welp, best way out is how we came in.

 = There's a window here in the kitchen. Maybe we can slip out that way.

 = Wriggle's insect friends bring news of a hidden tunnel under the house.

 = I still don't see why we can't just break through a wall.

[Yumetou]

The origins of Gensokyo

 

Within Gensokyo, there are several groups of beings who can be roughly categorized into eight ‘species’ or ‘races’. Each with their own distinct subgroups. In order of commonality, these are Ghosts, Youkai, Fairies, Humans, Hermits, Demons, Kami and Dolls. Once, all these races lived on Earth. However these groups found themselves in conflict regularly. Over the course of thousands of years, humans grew in number and many of the more aggressive Fairies, Demons and Youkai were defeated. The apex of this conflict began at various times in the world, with Humanity overpowering the Youkai of Japan soon after their borders opened to the West in 1853. Though as dangerous as any rifle or bomb was the rise of secularism. Faith in these beings diminished, weakening what Youkai remained. To preserve what of them remained, the strongest remaining Youkai isolated the realm of Gensokyo from the Outside World in 1885. The realm has existed in almost complete isolation since then, with the barrier sustained by faith in the Hakurei God, as well as the strongest of the Youkai Sages.

 

These sages are known to include Yakumo Yukari, Ibaraki Kasen and Matara Okina, though there are assumed to be others. The dragons of Gensokyo are known to have vanished at the same time, suggesting the realm was isolated in part due to their aid.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

“Hey ya’ll, its yer girl Joon here to rob you dumb Kami again. Since you’re all out of money, I’ll take...hmm, your kimono. Yes, you in the red. It looks expensive. Heads, erm, lining they go out the kitchen window. Back, they follow the ‘hidden path’. HAI-YAAH!

 

…

 

…

 

Well this didn’t work out how I planned. But close enough to tails. See you idiots, I’m going to sell this to save up for my gambling fund this weekend.”

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The roars of the monster billowed down the halls. The beast they had just eluded racing through the halls. Oscar for his part turned to the kitchen windows. Quickly lunging and throwing one open. The old wood felt rotted under his finger tip, and the first wooden bar fell away. Leaving a space much too small for he, but enough for his three friends. Somehow, he managed to hide his panic with a daring smile back at the three.

 

“We have no time to lose. We have to get out of here—through the window, quickly.”

 

“But Osu, you can’t fit through there!”

 

“I couldn’t scare a Youkai away either.”

 

An impatient wave of his hand followed. The billowing from the hall soon showing there was little time to lose. Agappa was first, delicately climbing over the detritus left by the home’s owner. Before Wriggle rolled her eyes and flew over to the Mikari-Baba. Hefting her up and through the window. A dull but harmless thud coming from outside. Wriggle followed a moment later. Then, with a last glance back at him, Cirno flew out the window too.

From where she hovered, watching Agappa rubbing her head and Cirno watching the window, Wriggle felt...weird. She knew she would want to see him come spilling out that window. Hopeless as Oscar was, Cirno was right. He had been a good friend to them in the little time they knew him. But...at the same time…

 

He wanted to take Cirno from her friends.

 

The thought had an instinctive revulsion to it. The way a human felt when he saw a cockroach, she supposed. It was disgusting, wrong even. But then...it made sense. Hadn’t Rumia been talking to him before she vanished? Hadn’t he somehow found them after Cirno spent all night crying over him and Rumia? Hadn’t he decided to go alone with her, Cirno, and the creepy friend they HAPPENED to meet on the road together?

 

Something didn’t smell right…

 

She could head something in her brain like padded feet through the long grass behind her. The sound was so pronounced she almost failed to hear the soft words of gnats and centipedes. Their words made her smile faintly to herself. Before she peered over the window.

 

“Osu, you can’t get through, can you?”

 

The man was already halfway to the door, though her words stopped him. A soft smile crossed Wriggle’s lips as she continued. “I heard from some of the insects here. There’s a hidden tunnel here. The Fortune Teller built it as a way to escape if his home was attacked. You can find it in the cellar. He kept his preserved foods, sake and reagents there.”

 

Her news done, Wriggle turned to her friend. Half coaxing, half shoving Cirno from the scene. All as Agappa stared after her mutely.

 

Back inside, Oscar took stock of his situation. The house was inhabited by a monster, one which seemed to want him dead. But it could be fooled, and fairly easily. He just had to evade it, and find his way to the cellar. He was even pretty sure he knew where it was. He just had to get to it before the monster outside did…

 

The question was, how?

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

 = If he's scared by ghosts, then we just have to make things extra creepy. All I need is a few of these pieces of rooting meat, some cloth and a bowl...

 = Maybe by getting the girls outside to make noise on the other side of the house, it'll distract him long enough for Oscar to get to safety?

 = The monster had six eyes, and two of them went out when I fooled him. I wonder if there's some kind of significance to it? If I confront it directly and fool it twice more, maybe it will stop?

 = Nah man. Straight up Naruto run your way to the cellar. Dude will have no time to catch you.

Edited November 11, 2024 by Yumetou

[Yumetou]

 

Meat

Meats in Gensokyo are highly prized. It makes for fine foodstuffs, and can be used to barter or bribe with more primitive-minded Youkai. That said, meat is difficult to come by. Unlike Earth where most meat is shipped from across the world to a store, in Gensokyo meat has to be acquired by hunting a wild animal or slaughtering an animal large enough to give meat. Due to this, meat is hard to come by in most seasons.

There are a number of ways of preserving meat. A cool cellar can be used to keep it at a reasonably cold temperature for some time. Salt can be used to dry the meat and seal it, or it can be sealed using animal fat or even cheese. Alternatively, you could pickle your meat using water and salt, or cure it using salt and spices. One can even bury it deep in the ground, where the cold earth can keep it safe. The simplest way to preserve it however is simply to smoke it, which will dry out the meat, repel insects and make it slower to rot.

If you consider providing meat to a Youkai, it is best to bear in mind the Youkai's temperament and tastes. While safe with most Youkai, some find certain meats or preservation methods disagreeable.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

"We have to go back for him!"

 

Cirno looked an awful sight. The askew wig and dirtied kimono Wriggle calmly helped her with were bad enough. But already, her eyes were beginning to wet with nervous tears, and there was a manic look in her eye. Normally, the risk of Cirno crying would have melted Wriggle's heart. Especially after the night before. As it was, the look only gave Wriggle a small sense of satisfaction. She shook her head at Cirno's plea, even as she continued. "We just found Osu! We can't lose him again!"

 

"There there," Wriggle replied, with an uncharacteristic condescension as she patted Cirno's hand. "I am sure the 'great and powerful' Osu is safe in the Fortune Teller's house. He's probably teleported himself back to Heida Temple already. We had better hurry to see him again~"

 

The lilt in her voice was noticeable even to Cirno. Who gave her friend a penetrating look. One she wished could detect what had Wriggle acting so weird. But their friendship won in the end. With a heavy heart and fearful damp eyes, Cirno started towards the Temple. Wriggle didn't have long to savor her victory. As she pulled her wig on, she finally noticed over her shoulder the eyes of Agappa. Though her gaze wasn't quite on wriggle, but above her.

 

"What are you staring at, creepo?"

 

Her arm slowly raised. Before pointing, in a way that made Wriggle's body grow cold with fear that was not her own. And in that moment, she realized she hated Agappa. Even if she didn't know why.

 

"I see you."

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

Wriggle’s face disappeared from the corner of the window. For a moment, Oscar felt his heart grow cold. She had been difficult, even by her standards. But Agappa, Cirno and Wriggle’s presence had been comforting. Now, for the third time in two days, he was all alone…

 

...Except for a lazy old hare taking a nap in his hat of course.

 

The low sound of the monster in the hall drew Oscar’s attention. The thing seemed afraid of coming back to the kitchens, where the ‘ghost’ of a headless man had terrified it so. But Oscar was sure the moment he left, it would see he was human. Even the terror it seemed to have of him as a spirit would be of no use while he was in the flesh.

 

...Unless…

 

Oscar’s eyes cast themselves over the room. Dried meat hung from the ceiling awaiting an owner who would never come. Fresher meat lay rancid and rotting. A dull green mass fit only for the maggots that squirmed inside of them. Taking a knife, he did his best to ignore the scent at his nostrils as he turned to one. Idly running the blade over the surface and forcing its inhabitants out. The sight that befell him was too disgusting for words, and so Oscar would never try in the years after. He had just decided to give up on this idea, when his eye shifted over the room. In the corner, he could see a broom made of some kind of straw. A mouse had nibbled at it at one point, but it looked mostly intact. In fact the star looked sturdy enough to resist him breaking it in half…

 

The thought made him pause. The gears turned quietly in his mind. Before a slow smile crossed his face. With a glance to make sure the monster was away, he quickly snatched up the broom, showing an energy that disturbed the old rabbit. It glared down at him as Oscar undid the bindings. Winding pieces of straw into a primitive rope. He gave the wound piece of five broom-hairs a tug. It held, if only just.

 

“Time for another monster to walk these halls.” He murmured with a knowing smile.

 

 

 

The Ao Bozu let out a low pitiful cry as it circled the central courtyard. So far, it had circled the courtyard a dozen times. He had examined several rooms. Some he could enter, some had far too many eyes watching for it. And of course there was the kitchen. Haunted as it was, by the headless man. The brute was glad to be free of its prison however. Even this limited freedom was a blessing.

 

A low moan echoed from down the hall. Fearfully, the beast turned its head. The door of the kitchen stood open. Ominous with only a faint illumination from the afternoon sun. For the span of three breaths, the space was empty. Until a figure appeared. It was dressed well, its hands extended, coated in exposed meat as it approached blindly. Its face, wrapped in rotting flesh, oozed faintly. Flies clinging to it as it stumbled into the hall with a dull groan.

 

The Ao Bozu felt another set of its eyes close in fear. The monster scrambling for cover as the dead thing lumbered into the hall. And towards the stairs to the lower cellar…

 

As Oscar pulled the impromptu mask of straw and meat from his face, he could see the yawning maw of the cellar ahead of him. The space was pitch black, and nearly impenetrable. But if Wriggle was right, it also had his freedom…

 

What now?

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

 = Call out and see if anyone is down there.

 = Through great good luck, you manage to find a candle down here.

 = Feel your way into this dark place with your bamboo stick. No sense in drawing attention to yourself.

 = Peer into the dark. Will yourself to see.

[Yumetou]

Preserving Fruits and Vegetables

We have touched on preserving meat, but fruits and vegetables are even more important. Fish and wildlife can be found with some effort in wintertime, but you are unlikely to find any greens out of season. And with modern methods such as conventional refrigeration or dehydration unavailable, you will have to fall back on old traditions. Fortunately, we have a few available.

Canning is the best option for long-term fruit preservation. Though one has to be careful when doing so. Canning when done properly is unlikely to spoil, but spoilage is hard to detect. Fruits with low acidity, or vegetables, should be canned under high pressure, while fruit with high acidity should be placed in a water bath.

Jam or preservatives are an option as well. By boiling fruit with sugar, it can safely be canned and stored in a cool, dark place or even buried.

Using a brine solution, such as vinegar or salt water, you are able to pickle vegetables or fruit. While unpleasant, this is one of the safer methods.

For shorter preservation, one can light a low fire in an oven. Placing fruit or vegetables inside, you will be able to safely remove the moisture inside.

 

Or, you can skip these silly options and subscribe to our Blue Ice Fairy program! With fresh ice prepared at our Ice-Fairyctory or harvested from the Misty Lake in winter, we produce a twenty pound block of ice which can be placed in a cool, dark space. Allowing you to preserve your precious foodstuffs without concern for spoilage! And with only a 30% chance of Cirno getting bored and wandering off, isn't that a deal worth making? Subscribe for 1 Bu a month, for Blue Ice Fairy. Delivered fresh, right to your home!

 

Otherworldly Ventures and its affiliates are not responsible for ice shipment delays due to Cirno's boredom, or Incidents occurring in Gensokyo. Ice blocks may at times contain complimentary frozen frogs. Blue Ice Fairy ice blocks are intended for refrigeration, and are not meant to be used to build a shelter or thrown at Otherworldly Venture employees.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

Wriggle stared at the strange little Youkai. A voice in the back of her mind acknowledged thinking of Agappa Haraume as 'Little' was rich, but the thought buried itself quickly. This creepy little turd had made her life miserable, and dragged that human in between Cirno and her. Everything was all wrong. From her thoughts to her friends. It had to be her fault.

 

The youkai realized her lip was curled. Agappa just stared at her. An uncharacteristic intensity in her furrowed brow and accusing finger. Not that it was pointed at Wriggle. Her mind seized on it. Already, her mouth shifted. A half-formed insult on her lips, something between calling her stupid or blind. But instead a low growl came from her, before her lips moved in a low voice. "Now listen here Yama's pet. And listen good. Cirno is mine, and so are her friends. Yours? He isn't coming back. Keep out of my way, and we won't have any problems. But if you have a bone to pick with me...Well. Eiki won't miss you."

 

Wriggle took a deep breath as she turned. Leading a confused Cirno back towards Heida. Wriggle wasn't sure why she didn't quite feel herself today. Perhaps it was too long around that 'magician'. Spending some time alone with her friends would surely change that.

 

If only Agappa would stop staring at her while she walked away.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The yawning cellar seemed to stretch on before him. The stagnant air filling Oscar's nostrils with mildew. In that moment, he wished he could pull out his phone again. But his stunt with the projector had already drained what power it had left, and the monster's roars told him he didn't have long. With a slow breath, he stepped down the worn and rotted stairs. Comforted by the fact that he was surely safe here...

 

It was on his eighth step, that the wood under his foot shattered. Sending him pitching forward. His mouth opened to cry for help, but he only just remembered the danger overhead. And so, he struck the hard dirt floor without a sound.

 

The dark clung to Oscar. For the want of light, he could not know if he had been out for seconds or hours. The only thing which told him he was conscious now, was the feeling of Houdini nuzzling at his face. For a moment, Oscar could just lie there. Before a hand rose to scratch at the rabbit's head. The rabbit might have been a lazy old coot. Better suited to sleeping and being pulled from hats than adventures. But with the others gone, Oscar was glad to have him.

 

A few moments passed. His hands patting at the rough earthen ground. He found his hat after a few tries, before slipping Houdini back inside. Returning the hat to his head. After a few moments, he found a few other things. His trick flower, a few kerchiefs and...Oscar almost felt a smile as he picked up his trick rope. Quickly clicking pieces of it back into place. It couldn't let him climb down it to safety, but it could help him here. Holding a length of the now straight rope in hand, Oscar held it in front of him. Idly tapping as he explored the room. Now and then, he would feel things brushing at his face. Dried herbs, forgotten pieces of meat, vegetables caught between rotted and preserved. Now and then he would find a spider's web instead, which would cling to his face before he could remove it. The tapping rope couldn't tell him what it found when it hit something. But he could guess well enough from context clues. Solid, wooden sounding, flat. A crate. The same but round was a barrel. The same but strangely shaped, a piece of furniture. It didn't take him long to find one of the walls. Tapping idly along the dirt wall, he made his way slowly around. First along the east wall. Then the north, almost stumbling over a large *thing* in the northeast corner. Then the west and...

 

He paused as the stairs appeared ahead. No. Nonono, this couldn't be right. Wriggle said there was an exit down here. He had circled the room, and there hadn't been an exit...

 

What did that mean?

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

What now?

 

 = This seems like an ideal time to panic.

 = Do another lap. Maybe its on the ground, or higher up on the walls.

 = Hey dude, its alright. Houdini, sleepy as he is, has your back. Maybe share your thoughts with him.

 = Since the situation can't get worse, time to get out the grimoire. Stand by the stairs and read random passages until something useful happens.

 = Welp, time to run back how we came.

Edited December 10, 2024 by Yumetou

[Yumetou]

Earth Rabbits

 

Known as ‘Earth Rabbits’ in English to differentiate them from Moon Rabbits, Earth Rabbits are normal rabbits who have ascended to a form of Youkai. Like other animal Youkai, they are said to be normal animals who have lived for an unusually long period of time. Through this, they gain immortality, sentience and magical powers.

 

Earth Rabbits are disobedient things, seldom taking the orders of others seriously, and are prone to pranks. They are however benevolent towards people who show them kindness, often helping in unexpected ways. They have strong bonds to other Earth Rabbits, often singing and dancing together, or preparing the traditional rabbit dish of Mochi. They are most often found in the Bamboo Forest of the Lost, to the west of the Human Village, at the terminus of the Youkai Trail.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

His breaths were ragged and frightened. The pole’s end thumped against the ground as he desperately felt for the promised entrance. This couldn’t be right...Wriggle wouldn’t do this. She could be testy at times, but why would she lie? And in front of an upset Cirno of all people? With frantic energy, the bamboo pole continued its search. Tapping at the ground rapidly. Each reaffirming a silent secret which gripped at Oscar’s heart…

 

There was nothing there.

 

The taps grew slower. Going from whacks against the sod and dirt to gentle prods. Until it fell from his hand. Slowly, Oscar leaned back. Taking a seat at the base of the stairs. Overhead, the Youkai thudded about. The sound of its footsteps echoing even down here. For a moment, Oscar wondered if anyone would miss him if he never returned. He was already certain he wouldn’t be missed back on Earth. Would Cirno come looking for him? Or would Wriggle change her mind? Would Agappa come for him? Or in a few weeks’ time, would a witch ask if anyone had seen that guy she met a month ago in front of Heida Temple?

 

The thought was sobering. With little else to do, he pulled the top hat from his head. Easing it upside-down. Its inhabitant did not stir, lost in a deep sleep. Nose wriggling as he had some secret dream. Even here, the sight made Oscar smile.

 

“Well Houdini. It looks like this is the end. We had a good run, made a lot of children happy. Its just a shame our story ends without that perfect performance I wanted as a kid.” His hand gently rubbed at the old rabbit’s head. Houdini’s eyes opened in a sleepy glare, which quickly shifted into a look of somnolent joy as Oscar rubbed at his head. Chin easing back for a better rub. “Come to think of it, you’re as old as I was when we met. You’re the only one who ever stuck around when times got bad. I know its because I fed you and all. But you were always there during a performance or whenever I was alone. That still makes you my truest friend. My only friend now.”

 

The creature’s eyes seemed to open wider. His nose wiggled curiously, almost as if staring. Oscar couldn’t stop a chuckle.

 

“Guess this place is my tomb now. I just wish it didn’t have to be both of ours.”

 

The rabbit gazed up at him for a moment, before with more energy he thought possible in the lazy critter, it scrambled from his hat. Long back legs kicking as it lunged from its bed. It hit the ground, even as Oscar stood to try and grab him. But Houdini was already off, running faster than Oscar recalled him in years. The moment the furry creature reached a wall, he began to frantically dig into the wold. A fine mist of dirt spraying after him. By the time Oscar reached the hole, it had already vanished into an old rat tunnel which wound along the wall.

 

Again he was alone.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

Out in the grass of the Fortune Teller’s property, a white paw cut through the dirt. A face white as snow, coated by brown, emerged. Tired as he was, the rabbit hopped free. Scurrying along the quiet road. It was well into the afternoon now. The fields wouldn’t empty for hours yet, and the townsfolk were at rest and preparing evening meals. There was no one to observe him as he hopped along the cobblestone road. Before he headed deeper into the town…

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

 = ...Seeking the quiet medicine stall on the edge of the market...

 = ...Towards the temple to the north...

 = ...Moving towards the rental library...

 = ...Creeping into the tavern...

= ...Starting the long climb up the Heida Temple...

[Yumetou]

The Grassroots Youkai Network

 

An informer affiliation of lesser Youkai, the Grassroots Youkai Network is often used to pass on information between weaker Youkai. Usually as a means of protecting themselves, whether against Humans, stronger civilized Youkai, Wild Youkai, Spirits or other threats. Many of these Youkai act as informal advisors to Otherworldly Ventures, confirming details in this book and assisting in tracking down rumors. Its members are usually anonymous, leading the Otherworldly Ventures team to assume the Network is widespread throughout Gensokyo.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

Guessss Whhhooooo? Back again for more of your money! If you had any. I’ll take your jewelry. Don’t give me that look, you’re a Kami. You’ll make it back in donations in a few months...or decades, depending. Now to flip this ring. Heads, Houdini goes to the Stalls. Tails, the Buddhist Temple my loser sister stays at.

 

...Wellwell, I guess he goes to the stalls. But if you thought meeting the local bunny girls would be that easy, you’re going to be very disappointed.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The rabbit made its way down the cobblestone road with long hops of his back legs. Though as he bounced frantically towards the line of stalls, he could feel his strength leaving his legs. His bones, old for rabbits, ached painfully. Each hop brought him closer to his friend’s rescue, but also towards his own exhaustion.

 

He could see them ahead. The figures were dressed in peasant clothing, one taller, the other shorter. But even his old nose could smell they were rabbits. The two sat around a table, eating. The taller gagging, even as her companion pointed and laughed…

 

...Why were they so hard to see…

 

The periphery of his vision grew dark. His throat struggling to take in a breath. The two stood, grasping their great bamboo packs before turning to leave…

 

No!

 

The sight brought new strength to his limbs and he bounded forward. But his body failed him. Even as he struggled to catch his breath, he fell forward onto the road. Darkness consumed his vision, and he slipped into a despairing sleep…

 

 

 

A pair of red shoes crossed the cobblestone pathway. Their owner gazing off towards the horizon. Dour thoughts clouding an otherwise youthful mind. Even if the basket hanging from the crook of her arm promised some cheer. Her eyes slowly passed the homes that lined the space. Idly wondering if life would be better if she moved out from the Village. It was not easy living in hiding all the time after all. But experience had taught her that life was just as dull anywhere else. Perhaps moreso, as the Human Village was a magnet for Incidents. And it would be lonely without her friends around.

 

Her eyes turned towards the Heida Temple as she passed the road, a voice in the back of her head wondering if Keine would try to rope her into going back to night school. Before she stopped in mind stride.

In the center of the road lay an elderly rabbit. Breathing heavily with his eyes closed. The day was still early, so no humans had seen him, but he was sure to be a lucky hawk or dog’s lunch…

 

With a soft sigh, she turned. Changing her path to walk towards the wheezing creature. Stopping in front of it to set her basket down. The cloth over the top rustling as a pair of red eyes peered out at him. Crouching down, she studied it for a moment. As though rethinking what she was even doing.

 

“Hey.”

 

There was no reply. Only more ragged breathing.

 

“Hey. Wake up.”

 

Her words didn’t seem to be helping much. But at least he opened his eyes to that. A hand reached into her basket. Ignoring the feeling of hair and the odd nip of teeth against her arm.

 

“Ugh, you’re in a rough state...I’m not much of a pet person. So sorry if you don’t like it or whatever.”

 

Her slender hand emerged. Offering an Onigiri to the exhausted rabbit. For a moment, it could only sniff at it, before slowly nibbling at the offering.

 

“Wonder what you are doing here...this is the worst place a rabbit could be. Did you come here with the rabbits from Eientei?”

 

Only the sound of munching met her ears.

 

“Not much of a talker, are you? I think we’ll get along.”

 

Gripping the exhausted rabbit by the scruff of the neck, the young lady awkwardly lifted the fluffy creature. Dropping it into the basket. Its food soon following. “You just get some sleep. We can sort out introductions later.”

 

The basket began to sway again, drifting from side to side as Houdini caught his breath. The basket itself was half stuffed with Onigiri. Cooked rice, plums, fish and other fine foods mixing in the space. But he could pay no mind to that. Nor to the one he had already been chewing on. For across from him, was a human head watching him.

 

“Hey.”

 

Oscar would probably have startled at that. Houdini however, was too relaxed at his age for that. He was just grateful he had dinner and a ride. A pleasant enough thought, as he returned to sleep.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

Well. You found someone at least. What distant dreams does your Patron share with you?

 

 = Wait, and Dream of your Best Friend.

 = Wait, and Dream of a Witch's Strings.

 = Wait, and Dream of an Afflicted Soul.

 = Wait, and Dream of Stranger's Self-Loathing.

Edited January 14 by Yumetou

[Yumetou]

 

Rokurokubi

'Pulley Neck'

 

One of the more common Youkai to emerge from humans, Rokurokubi are universally drawn from human women, usually those from red light districts. They are said to be transformed due to some cosmic misdeed, though the nature of this misdeed can range from blasphemy against the Kami to simple infidelity. This misdeed need not be performed by the victim of it either. Often Rokurokubis inherit this punishment from their husbands or fathers, who go unpunished for their actions.

Possessing unnaturally long and extendable necks, Rokurokubi conceal their abilities by day. By night, their use their elongated necks move their heads around as their bodies sleep. Their snake-like neck they usually use to drink oil from hanging lanterns. Though they may also hunt small animals, frighten unfortunate victims, or restrain people. Though frightening, Rokurokubi are seldom harmful to humans. Often preferring to live among humans, and usually unaware of their condition.

There are a series of similar beings widely fitting in the same class. While the youkai Nukekubi and devil Dullahan are similar in some respects, it is best not to confuse them. Dullahans and Nukekubi are both significantly more dangerous than a Rokurokubi, and seldom take kindly to being compared to the more benign Rokurokubi.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

It burned her hand. Searing against her fingers even as they ran against the texture. Scars, black as midnight, forming over her fingertips. A little hiss escaped between clenched teeth as the fabric ran against her small digits. Until all sensation in her hand ceased. And she had no choice but to let go.

 

She raised her hands. Ignoring the sound of the stream passing beneath her as she held up her dull hands. Scars, black as pitch, greeted her gaze, covering each of her hands. But despite the memory of the pain, Rumia only felt sad she could not feel it against her fingers again. Close her eyes, and think of how things used to be…

 

The hands lowered. The odd sound of birdsong surrounding her as she sat in the shadow of a boulder. A familiar shield against the sun...It may have burned her much as the ribbon did. But the sun’s light only brought pain. The ribbon’s touch, the fabric, it brought back...happier, memories. If only they had stayed forgotten…Humans had been easy enough to ignore. Even with her abiding hunger, there were plenty of other tasty things to eat, when the gnawing got too bad. Sometimes, she could almost convince herself there were no humans in Gensokyo. That she had no idea what they tasted like. That she had never been friends with one. Until...

 

Her eyes turned down to the creek that ran over her bare feet, forming a pool. A miserable face gazed back at her, its cheeks stained with dried tears. But she could see something in its eyes. The same feeling that gnawed at her gut. Hunger…and something else.

 

Kimiko was right.

 

Her fingers could scarcely move properly. She had no idea it was a stone in her grip until she had thrown it into the water with all her might. The furious splash startled fish and bird alike as she huddled against her knees. Purposefully avoiding the water’s surface now.

 

“Miko...would my friends hate me, if they knew what I did?”

 

The murmur of the creek was her only reply.

 

“I’m sorry…”

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The basket jostled. Rousing the sleeping rabbit from his dream with bleary winks. Light stole around the woven basketting, illuminating the head opposite to him, sleeping as well. He could hear voices outside, and with his strength returning, he nuzzled at the edge of the basket.

 

His rescuer was standing in the shadow of an imposing looking building. A Buddhist temple, he was sure. The redheaded girl peering around tombstones, until she closed her eyes and let out a breath.

 

“You can come out Kogasa. You know you won’t get any Faith from scaring me anyway.”

 

The rabbit’s worn eyes stared up, unable to perceive more than colors as a woman holding an umbrella stepped towards them, her face looking downcast as she approached.

 

“Oh, its just you Sekibanki...I was hoping to scare someone today…”

 

“Yeah, well. That’s life. C’mon. I bet Kagerou and Wakasagihime are waiting for us at the usual place.”

 

The blur of blue and soft white slowly resolved itself as the figure approached, It was a young woman, dressed in a modest but distinctive blue dress. Holding a large umbrella, a comedically long tongue swirling behind it as she approached as though hiding itself from view. Hetero-chromatic eyes of blue and red giving Sekibanki a disappointed look, which she either ignored or failed to notice.

The expression on her face vanished as she turned her eyes down to the basket. Only now noticing the fluffy white face which sat on the brim of the basket.

 

“Who’s that?”

 

“Huh? Oh, this is a new friend I made. I found him passed out in the square in front of the Heida Temple. If I hadn’t passed by, a dog or hawk probably would have gotten him. Doesn’t talk much, but he’s pleasant to be around.”

 

“Hmm…”

 

The blue-haired youkai considered him for a moment. Before with a sudden burst of energy, she rushed towards him. Mouth opening wide as her tongue rolled out, hands grasping towards him. “BLEEEGH! You look delicious!”

 

Houdini’s only response was a wiggle of his nose.

 

For a moment, Kogasa held the face, as though hoping the rabbit might change his mind and back away in terror. When he did not, she slumped forward. “Not even a little fear...I can’t even scare a rabbit.”

 

“Yeah...that’s life.”

 

Sekibanki didn’t feel her response was helpful. Especially after repeating it twice. But there wasn’t anything else she could think to say in that moment. The words hung in the air for a moment. Before she turned and stepped from the cemetery. The footfalls of the other hurrying to catch up.

 

“I’ll tell you what Kogasa. When we get to the Lake, I’ll let you have first pick of the food.”

 

“You know human food can’t sustain me though Seki-chan…”

 

“Yep.”

 

“...What did you pack this time?”

 

“You’ll have to wait until we get there.”

 

“Is anyone else going to be there?”

 

“Just Ichi. She’s in the basket.”

 

The talk of the two made the blood of the old hare stir, bringing him from a preemptive drowsiness. The lake? So far from the village! Oscar could be dead by the time he got back! Looking over the basket though, he could only see the food, packed in its fresh bamboo leaves, and the sleeping second head of the woman holding the basket…

 

There was no time to lose. He had to save his best friend.

 

Outside the basket, the two continued their conversation, rising along a path towards the northern gate.

 

“So what have you been doing lately, Koggers?”

 

“Why do you call me that?”

 

“Its funny.”

 

“Well, if you must know, I tried babysitting some of the children who go to the Myouren Temple.”

 

“How did that go?”

 

“Awful...They wouldn’t listen to me, they pulled at my umbrella, and then when I tried to scare them, they started calling me ‘umbrella ghoul’ and throwing water on me! So rude…”

 

“I mean...you live in a graveyard. Kids are going to find that weird.”

 

“Yeah but you would think I—”

 

Their conversation was cut short, as the basket rocked in Sekibanki’s arm, before the head of Ichika rocketed out of the wicker basket like a cannonball. The sleepy rabbit following after. His body made youthful in his adrenaline, his paws landed on the head as it bounced down the slope. Half running, half-rolling underneath it as it went down the stone street.

 

“I-Ichibanki!” Seki shouted after the head. Kogasa could only stare in stunned silence. Some voice in the back of her head wishing she could roll her head through the Village...maybe then the townsfolk would fear her.

 

"S-someone should help her!" Kogasa managed.

 

“Stop staring then, umbrella ghoul—let’s go!”

 

The reply Kogasa had half-formed broke into a shout as Sekibanki pulled after her, the two youkai chasing after the rabbit and the head as they rolled into town…

 

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

How will the two Youkai try to catch Ichika and Houdini?

 

 = Sekibanki will extend her neck to try and grab Ichibanki.

 = Kogasa will shout for the townsfolk to help.

 = Use Kogasa's control over the weather to slow him with a strong wind.

 = Sekibanki fires a concentrated danmaku into the ground ahead to make a hole for Ichibanki to land in.

Edited February 4 by Yumetou

[Yumetou]

Karakasa Kozo

‘Umbrella Ghost’

 

As discussed elsewhere in the Gensokyo Survival GUide, a number of Youkai are said to manifest over time, typically 100 years. Among the most prestigious of these is the Karakasa Obake, or ‘Karakasa Kozo’ meaning Paper Umbrella Priest Boy’.

This surprising looking creature resembles a standing Japanese umbrella. These traditional umbrellas are made of paper with a layer of oil over them to make them resistant to the rain. A Karakasa Obake resembles this with a single large eye, a long tongue and one or two legs emerging from the hem of the umbrella.

 

Karakasa Kozo are benign creatures, often surprising humans by following them stealthily, before licking their victim with an oily tongue. Though not dangerous, this may still be traumatic in the right circumstances. Karakasa Kozo usually have a lasting affection for humans, and are difficult to spur to violence.

 

Oddly, while most Youkai arise from eyewitness reports and have essays documenting them, Karakasa Kozo have no reported sightings in Japan. This may be due to the Karakasa Obake's talent at being unobserved, or simply because they are so harmless no one considers them notable.

 

That said, umbrella themed Youkai are not uncommon, and one should take care not to confuse the playful Karakasa Kozo with their more dangerous cousins.

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The tumbling head rolled along the cobblestone path. The old rabbit somehow maintaining his perch on top of it over his wheezing. The two girls hurled after the two. Though Sekibanki could not help but think resentfully that Kogasa might have an easier time keeping up if she closed her umbrella…

 

She felt her head begin to come loose, one hand rising to push it back into place. It was surreal. A couple hours later, she and Kogasa would have dozens of witnesses to their inhuman nature. Farmers coming home, housewives working on food at the windows, children playing in the street. Now, the roads were mostly empty. Mostly. A housewife could be seen with a friend. Chatting with one another through a window. Normally, Sekibanki would have just walked right by, completely below note. But with Ichibanki bouncing ahead of her, there was not exactly an opportunity for subtlety…

 

“Koggers, I am about to do something stupid.”

 

“I told you not to call me—”

 

Kogasa’s irritated reply was cut off. Replaced with an expression of shock as Sekibanki threw aside her picnic basket. She held up her hand, holding aloft one of her spell cards. Danmaku surged from around her hand, flaring into the air overhead. The tired rabbit watched them rising impassively. They rained down onto the stone. Rupturing into the ground and throwing up shards of rock. Each creating a pothole large enough to catch her beloved extra head. Yet as she and her friends approached and the dust cleared, all she could see were empty potholes…

 

...And Ichibanki, laying brushed on her side. The tired old rabbit sitting passively on top of her. A tongue lapping at his paw.

 

“What the hell man? I thought we were cool.” Sekibanki hissed as she started forward again.

 

No sooner had she started for him, than the rabbit’s mad dash resumed. Faster than she had ever guessed he could have moved, he bolted again, rolling Ichibanki beneath him. Each rotation of her head followed by an ‘Ow. Ow. Ow.’

 

The two Youkai followed, ignoring the two women staring at them from behind as they pursued the hare. Kogasa’s eyes rose, taking in her surroundings.

 

“Seki, I think…”

 

She stopped as the other Youkai ran around the corner. Her slender fingers clung to her umbrella, her extension of herself. An odd feeling of foreboding filling her. Before she reluctantly followed.

 

“You damn creep! Give me back my head!”

 

As she rounded the corner, she could see Sekibanki racing up the path of the Fortune Teller’s house. Its shape looming ahead as though to blight an otherwise lovely spring day. The disembodied head lay on its side on the doorstep, a flash of white passing as the rabbit bolted through a hole in the wall, beneath an Ofuda. His legs briefly kicking to either side before he passed through. Sekibanki bent down, picking up Ichibanki and tenderly brushing at the head’s face, bruised as it was. Kogasa walked beside her. Her demeanor suddenly subdued.

 

“So...we have Sekibanki. We can go on that picnic now and try to enjoy our day together.”

 

Sekibanki gazed down at the mirror of her own head. Its cheeks and face dirtied and made puffy from bruising. Still, Ichibanki tried to smile up at her.

 

“Nah. I’m going after that rabbit.”

 

“...Sekibanki, you can’t. That house is forbidden! And…”

 

The word ‘cursed’ somehow stuck to the roof of Kogasa’s mouth as she watched her friend. Still, Sekibanki only gave a shrug as she eased the other head into her shirt to keep it safe. “Don’t care. I thought he was a chill guy. Now I’m going to give him a piece of my mind.”

 

“But—”

 

“You can wait here Koggers. I don’t want you to see me shouting at an old fogey anyway.”

 

Kogasa watched her friend for a moment, hoping she might back down. But Sekibanki started for the house. Before with a small sigh, Kogasa followed.

 

Who knows. Maybe she could find someone to scare here…

 

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

 

The house is encircled with Ofuda, protective charms against Youkai and other spirits. How will the two get inside?

 

 = Ease Ichibanki through a broken window and have her open the door.

 = Maybe a passing human could open the door for us? After all, the Hakurei Shrine is supposed to check on it...sometimes...

 = Kogasa counters the Hakurei Shrine Ofuda with Ofuda from the Moriya Shrine.

 = Dude, you can fly. Just go up through the balcony.