Heida Temple and Manor
In spite of being a full sized temple, Heida is one of the lesser religious sites around the Human Village, being less significant than either the Myouren Temple or the Hakurei Shrine. What it lacks in religious significance however it makes up for in secular value. It is owned and maintained by the Heida Family, perhaps the most influential human family in Gensokyo's history, who maintain a large mansion on the property. It also connects to the Heida Temple School, discussed elsewhere. The site is frequently used as a safe area for children to play, or as a meeting place for village elders to discuss the affairs of the village. It is likely the most secure place you will have ready access to, and is the beating heart of the village.
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It was half an hour later that Oscar stepped out into the streets of the Village. Agappa following just behind him. The handbag wrapped around her shoulders hanging on her back. Hood drawn closely to hide her face as they went. The two had passed through the village the night before, but only now in the light of day did he have a look at this place.
And just a glance was enough to fill him with dread.
The road before the Heida Temple was well paved, with stone bricks lining the way. But the roads from this main path were made of packed dirt. Simple cottages, made of timber and paper, lined the road. Grand mansions and halls, which gave way to more humble abodes. The street was mostly empty, the working men long ago left for their jobs. Though laborers could be seen in front of small storefronts working on their wares, and small throngs of women in brighter clothes talked among themselves. There were no streetlights, only unlit paper lanterns. There were no phones, only the low sound of conversation. There were no blue jeans or shopping malls, only sturdy cloth and small storefronts.
Where even am I?
“Hungry.”
The comment was almost enough to make him jump, despite the calm statement was radically different from Rumia’s forlorn tone. His own eyes flicked to Agappa, who calmly returned the gaze. “Why even follow me then? Your friend wanted you to torment Cirno. Why come with me?”
The question only earned him a mute stare. Her mouth slightly agape while she stared up at him with big brown eyes. Before she blew her cheeks out, and sucked in her lips. Oscar rolled his eyes, even if he expected an answer like that. Still, after yesterday, her creeping company was better than only having a sleepy old rabbit for a companion.
“Come on kiddo. We’ll get some money then find a bite to eat. Whatever you eat.”
“No money.”
“Not a problem. Just stick by me.”
It took the two some time to find what he was looking for. What it actually was, Agappa wasn’t sure. But he had asked for a table, and the rough old piece of garbage was close enough. A stone, two bricks and a half-broken piece of pottery completed his stand. So it was with mute interest she watched Oscar finish setting up, not fair from the temple. Before reaching into his pocket. It emerged a moment later, a sturdy red cup made of something unknown in his hand. Peeling it away to reveal two more inside. Setting each on the table carefully, he pulled a ball from another pocket. It made her curious. It was plain and white, larger than the largest marble but much too small for a game ball. Setting the cup over it, Oscar gave her a knowing look. Before giving the top a firm tap. Delicately lifting it, to reveal nothing was there.
“WAAGH!”
The girl in her raincoat stumbled backwards, falling to the ground. Oscar only laughed, satisfied at her overreaction.
“Relax. Its just magnets. That tap makes the magnet go down, pulling the ball through a false bottom in the cup. Presto, no more ball.”
Explaining a trick was something a magician was supposed to never do. But from the look on her face, he may as well have told her it was an arcane ritual told to him in a dream. If she represented the average native, he was sure to make a killing today.
All he had to do, was make sure his performance was worth whatever wager they chose to make.
With a show of confidence he had not felt in months, he swept his arms to either side. The red of his cape fanning before him as he shouted into the near empty square.
“Ladies and gentlemen, come one and all! I, the great and powerful Oscar Diggs challenge you to a battle of wits! Choose the correct cup, and double your money! Dare you match minds with one who has unlocked the arcane?!”
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Who comes first to your performance?
= A group of unfamiliar students, enjoying a break from their classes. What secrets might they hide?
= A group of students from the Temple School out on recess. They do look familiar though...
= A nearby merchant or craftsman hears your cry, taking it as an affront to their intellect!
(Test your Fortune! An 8-sided dice decides: 1-2= Kosuzu. 3=Kogasa, 4=Miyoi, 5=Rinnosuke, 6=Mystery Woman, 7=Mystery Man, 8=Mystery Man)
= A noble or priestess overhears your cries, and chooses to investigate. Best be on your toes!
(Test your Fortune! A 6 sided dice decides: 1-2=Akyuu, 3=Kyouko, 4=Mystery Woman, 5=Mystery Woman, 6=Doom)