"Meet me back here in two hours," she says. "I'll take care of what we need for the mansion."

With that, Sakuya vanishes, leaving Grey at the center of the Human Village.

Unlike most of Gensokyo, the village's inhabitants are primarily human, though he can see several youkai walking around as well. The place is known as the safest place in Gensokyo for humans, and those who come from the Outside often find their way here. It seems to be far more crowded than he expected, perhaps due to a larger influx of Outsiders during recent times.

Grey pauses to think. He still can't explain why he has knowledge of Gensokyo, but he knows that it can really come in handy.

[ ] Try to find Keine's school. As the Village guardian, she would know much about recent news concerning the village.
[ ] Try to find Akyu's house. The author of the Gensokyo Chronicle is a vast well of knowledge and wisdom.
[ ] Try to find Reisen. The lunarians have dealings with the village, and she might be selling medicine today.
[ ] Go window shopping. Too bad you don't have any money.
[ ] Wander aimlessly. Perhaps you'll bump into something interesting.
[ ] Custom

"W-what is this for? You don't give your enemy only weapon, you must be crazy or just plain stupid!" Sakuya says.

"..."

"I don't need this to kill you, you know that."

"Let's just say I'm a coward, and I'm afraid of dying painfully." Grey says.

"Don't think I won't kill you. I just can't risk anything like that happening again."

The knife disappears from her hand. She takes the gun in both hands and points it at Grey.

"I am r-r-really going to enjoy this," she says.

Her hands are shuddering violently as she struggles to aim.

"Any last requests?" she asks.

She manages a menacing grin as she finally managed to steady her arms. At this range, she can't possibly miss.

"Thank Remilia for me," Grey says.

He closes his eyes as he waits for her to shoot.

Remilia. She was always difficult to understand. Sometimes childish and sometimes crafty, she acted as if she was some grand pupeteer, pulling the strings from behind. But despite that, she believed in him from the start, even when he couldn't believe in himself. He wonders how things would have turned out if he spent more time with her. Perhaps he would learn to see through her cryptic words and find something more.

Flandre. The little sister scared him from the very beginning, and even now she still scares him. Her sheer destructive power is a natural thing to fear. But meeting her in person, he somehow feels that she is very different from the person he heard about. She still speaks and acts in an odd manner, but she is starting to understand the value of things that can't be "unbroken". Perhaps he could teach her more, if he had a chance.

Patchouli. The first person he met in the mansion. Intelligent, but a little clumsy, perhaps he can thank her for surviving his first night in Gensokyo. She showed unexpected kindness to a stranger she only met a few days ago. She even saved his life. Even if she spends most of her time in the Voile Library, he has no doubt that she would help him if he asked. Perhaps he should try to repay her kindness next time.

Koakuma. She was the most understanding and selfless. Despite her claims that it was her mistress' orders, it was obvious that she was going out of her way to help him. She trusted him when he found the most suspicious of things, and she fought by his side when it came to battle. If there was someone he could count on, even against the others, it would be her. Perhaps he shouldn't forget his promises next time.

He pauses as he realizes how long he has been reflecting on the last few days. Shouldn't he be shot yet?

He opens his eyes to see that Sakuya has lowered her arms. She is still holding the pistol in her right hand. He can't see the expression on her face clearly, but was she...

In the next moment, Sakuya vanishes. He blinks. He feels something heavy fall into his holster.

"If you don't hurry up, I'm going to leave you. It's a long way to the village, you know."

He turns around to see that Sakuya is already several yards away. She pauses and turns her face toward him, revealing a confident smile.

"We have a lot of work waiting for us back at the mansion. Don't think you can slack off just because you're an Outsider."

Loading User Commands:
[X] "I didn't come to ask about anything. I just felt like walking with you."

---

"I didn't come to ask about anything. I just felt like walking with you." Grey says.

Sakuya stops walking.

"S-stop it," she says.

Grey also stops walking and turns around. Sakuya is several steps behind him. She looks vexed.

"It's not funny anymore, so just stop it!" she shouts suddenly.

"..."

"I-I know what you're doing! You're trying to catch me with my guard down!"

"Huh?"

"Just like that time..."

Sakuya hangs her head down. Grey can't see the expression on her face.

"He was nice to me. He was nice to everyone. He was almost like family.."

She hold her hands over her chest.

"If only things were a bit different, then maybe..."

She clenches her fists.

"Maybe we would. And then perhaps. But then..."

She shudders.

"Maybe... I would be the one with a chest scar instead!"

Sakuya's eyes narrow as she gives Grey a dark look.

"He betrayed her, after everything she did. And to think I almost..."

Suddenly, a knife appears in her right hand.

"I won't let Lady Remilia get hurt again!"

Grey watches Sakuya silently. Her legs are shaking and her body isn't in a proper attack stance. Her hand is shuddering as she struggles to hold on to her knife. Her eyes show defiance, but her lips betray hesitation. They stand still in silence for a moment. It can't have been longer than a minute, but it felt like eternity.

Present and Past. Calm and Violence. Holy and Damned. Joy and Sadness. Courage and Fear. Faith and Despair. Trust and Betrayal. Life and Death.

Grey looks into her eyes and finally sees it. She seems cold, but she is gentle. She seems heartless, but she is warm. She seems silent, but she has so much to say. She seems confident, but she is alone. She seems reliable, but she needs others too. And she knows it.

He takes the pistol from under his jacket and checks the magazine. It still has more than half a clip left. He tosses it over to Sakuya, who catches it by reflex.

She gives him a puzzled look.

"Kill me."

[X] Inventory
A few pieces of blank stationary. You'll need something to write with, first.
A pair of police handcuffs and keys. Heavy-duty.
Three small candles. You'll need some matches.
Remilia's letter. You read it earlier this morning.
Mauser C96. Early semi-automatic pistol. You have two unused magazines for reloading.

[X] Status
Patchouli - C
Koakuma - B
Remilia - C
Sakuya - B
Flandre - C
Meiling - D

Loading User Commands:
[X] "I'd like to take a walk with you. Do you plan to visit the Human Village?"

---

"I'd like to take a walk with you. Do you plan to visit the Human Village?" Grey asks.

Sakuya gives him a little smile.

"In fact, I have to go there to order some materials. The stock we have isn't enough to finish the repairs," she says.

"Sounds good. I'd like to see village myself, and I can't ask for better company."

"Stop being stupid." she says as she turns away quickly. "Anyway, meet me at the lobby in fifteen minutes. I have to leave instructions with Meiling and the others."

She closes the door behind her before he can say more.

"Hmm, the village," he mutters. He knows that some friendly youkai live with the humans there. He may learn something from Keine or Mokou. He might also meet some other youkai visiting the village. But some of those youkai may not be so friendly. Grey takes two fresh clips from his cabinet and places them in his coat pocket. He also makes sure that the gun isn't visible.

"Just in case," he tells himself.

Twenty minutes later, Grey finds himself walking side by side with Sakuya. The path is straightforward, so he pays little attention to it.

"So what did you want to talk to me about?" she asks suddenly.

"Huh?"

"You wanted to talk to me about something, didn't you? Why else would you ask to walk with me?"

Grey pauses to think.

[ ] "I'd like to hear more about the Human Village."
[ ] "I'd like to know more about you."
[ ] "I'd like to hear more about..." (Specify.)
[ ] "I didn't come to ask about anything. I just felt like walking with you."
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Go with the fairy maids. Meiling goes with Flandre.

---

Grey lies on his back and stares at the ceiling. They were able to drive off the youkai hornets only two hours ago.

After they finished clearing every room of vermin, the fairy maids said they would handle the cleaning and repairs. Flandre returned to her room to go back to sleep, as expected. According to Koakuma, Patchouli returned to her room to recover. Koakuma stayed at the library with a few fairy maids to help with repairs. Meiling stayed outside and supervised the cleanup of the grounds.

Grey sighs. Everyone insisted that he take a break, since he is a guest. But even after a bath, he still doesn't feel relaxed.

There are still many questions left unanswered.

A knock on the door interrupts his thoughts. He gets up from his bed and opens the door.

"I hope I'm not disturbing you."

Grey shakes his head as he offers Sakuya a seat.

"I heard everything from Meiling and the maids. I have to say that you continue to surprise me," she says.

"Can't just watch while the mansion gets trashed, can I?" Grey says.

Sakuya nods.

"Thanks to your help, casualties and damages were greatly minimized. You've impressed everyone in the mansion. Even me."

Grey opens his mouth, but he finds that he has nothing to say.

"I-I-I mean you impressed me for an ordinary human. Don't misunderstand it," she says with a stern expression, though her cheeks have a light tinge of pink.

"It's enough to receive any sort of praise from the chief maid," Grey says with a bow.

Sakuya gives Grey a sharp tap on the head.

"Don't make fun of me."

"I wasn't trying to make a joke. Coming from you, those words really mean a lot."

Sakuya clears her throat.

"A-a-anyway, Lady Remilia told me to say thank you in her place, since she had to return to her room to rest."

"I'm sure she had a long day," Grey says.

"Yes. She only had time to check on her little sister before heading to bed."

"Flandre seemed to enjoy the day."

"I suppose that's true, though the damage she caused was pretty bad. It'll be a while till we finish the repairs."

Sakuya sighs.

"Anyway, that's all I came here to tell you. Now if you excuse me..."

"Wait a moment!"

Sakuya pauses.

[ ] "Would you like to have some tea with me this afternoon?"
[ ] "May I offer to cook you something for lunch?"
[ ] "I'd like to take a walk with you. Do you plan to visit the Human Village?"
[ ] "Need some help with anything?"
[ ] "Can we talk about something else?" (Specify)
[ ] "Nothing, never mind."

Loading User Commands:
[X] Slowly sweep through each room as you retreat. The other fairy maids may need help.

---

"We have barricaded the front door as you instructed, Master Grey. They won't be able to break in from this side."

"Good work," Grey says, "but don't call me Master. Just Grey will do."

"O-of course, Ma-er, Grey," the fairy says, blushing.

Grey turns to the fairy maids.

"Alright, we're going to sweep through every room as we clear the mansion of this vermin. No one gets left behind."

The fairies cheer as Grey leads them forward. In the next few minutes, they systematically clear the rooms in the west wing of the mansion. They manage to rescue several more fairy maids, increasing their own ranks, but in some rooms, they find only bloody corpses. The youkai hornets can't fight well in enclosed spaces, and they prove to be easy to exterminate indoors. For some reason, they don't seem to be as organized as during the initial attack.

"This doesn't feel right," Grey says.

It almost seems like they are acting as some sort of diversion. Grey continues leading the fairy maids, but sweeping the rooms is time-consuming. He can't afford to rush them forward, as they might get confused. He sighs as they approach the east wing; this the most he can do, for now.

As they near a corner, they stop as a sudden flash of red light fills the room, blinding them. This is followed by a deep rumbling that seems to shake the foundations of the mansion. Grey strains his eyes as they readjust to normal light. A small winged figure is walking toward them, her eyes burning a fiery crimson.

"Flandre?"

Grey grunts as something red quickly knocks him to the ground. His head spins as he tries to sit up. As his vision clears, he sees Flandre clinging to him in an embrace. She is shaking uncontrollably. Grey waits for her to calm down, stroking her silky blonde hair gently. He never thought that this girl would be so vulnerable. He senses a foreign, but not entirely unpleasant odor coming from her, like some kind of perfume. He shakes his head to quickly prevent that line of thought from going any further.

"B-big sis, where is big sis?" she whispers finally.

"Sakuya and Lady Remilia are at the Hakurei Shrine, don't worry. And I'm sure Patchouli and the others can take care of themselves." he says.

Flandre sighs in relief. She stops shaking, but stays a few more moments in Grey's arms before standing up. She smiles brightly at Grey, with no trace of sadness, nor hesitation in her voice.

"I'm in charge then!" she says. "Now tell me what's going on? I went up to see if big sis was having some loud party again, and all I find are these dirty bugs. Their bites really itch, so I roasted them. They probably don't taste as good as roast potatoes though."

"Nothing that the little sister should worry about, we are just taking care of some pests," Grey says as he reloads his pistol. "Perhaps you would like to join us? You can think of this as a kind of game. I expect these bugs are good for danmaku practice."

Flandre's eyes light up. The fairy maids shudder at this, as if they've seen that expression before.

"Try to hold back though. I'd hate for your sister to come home to a mess we can't clean up."

"Of course! The other one taught me a lot of things about that," Flandre says. "Some important things can easily break, and I don't know how to unbreak them. So I've been practicing how to play without breaking them. Did you know that if you play carefully, you can play with things more than once? Not like strawberries though, when you eat them you can't eat them again."

Grey looks at her thoughtfully. With her help, they can fend the attack off completely. He probably can't afford to leave her alone though. If they could meet up with either Meiling, Patchouli or Koakuma, he can probably split the group into two groups. But before he can decide, a familiar figure in green flies toward them. Flandre perks up and waves at it.

"It's China! It's China!" she says.

Meiling smiles weakly at Flandre as she approaches. She doesn't look hurt, but she looks tired.

"Grey said I can join for danmaku practice!" Flandre says.

Meiling looks at Grey with puzzled expression. He just gives her a shrug and a polite smile.

"I see you've organized the fairies. We should split into two groups to clear the area faster. I can probably go with the maids or with Flandre," Meiling says.

Grey nods. Flandre can't be left alone with the maids, that is certain.

[ ] Go with the fairy maids. Meiling goes with Flandre.
[ ] Go with Flandre. Meiling goes with the fairy maids.

Loading User Commands:
[X] Try to rally the fairy maids into an organized group.

---

"I-I-I just want to go home!"

"You killed her! You killed her! You ~"

"Stay together! Stay ~aaarrrgh!"

"Aaaauuu! Too many! Too many!"

"If only Sakuya was here..."

Several of the fairy maids are panicking or frozen in shock. Only a few seem to be focused enough to fight effectively. At this rate, the youkai will overrun the mansion within minutes. Grey grits his teeth. This chaos is...

"Unacceptable," he mutters.

Grey approaches the nearest pair of fairy maids. One of them has completely broken down and is crying uncontrollably. The other is trying to encourage her as she fends off the hornets with a rake. This is pathetic. He walks straight to the sobbing maid and...

"SLAP!"

Both fairies freeze in shock to look at Grey. He raises his gun and fires it once in the air.

"You two are going to help me gather everyone to the main entrance to the mansion."

Grey points the gun toward the two maids. Their eyes widen in fear and confusion. He fires several times. Two youkai hornets collapse on the ground behind them.

"You can't expect to rely on a human all the time, can you?" he says as he reloads the pistol.

The maid holding the rake blushes and shakes her head. The other one wipes away her tears and manages to stand up.

"Let's go then," he says with a smile.

It takes Grey several minutes, but he manages to gather all of the survivors in front of the main entrance. He orders them to form ranks, with those carrying melee weapons at the front line. Those firing danmaku alternate charging and firing their shots, forming a firing line. The heavily injured are carried behind the firing line so they can recover. Now organized, the fairies begin fighting back with renewed determination.

However, the youkai hornets are relentless. Dozens more swarm in to replace those that are killed. Some have managed to enter the mansion by breaking through the windows. Screams and sounds of battle can be heard from inside. Grey's group is holding them back from their position, but they can't fight like this for much longer. They need to take the battle inside the mansion and find a better place for defense.

Several minutes have passed since the attack started, but he hasn't seen any sign of the gateguard, nor the wizard and her librarian. Where are they? And wouldn't Flandre wake up with this cacophony? The fairy maids inside aren't organized yet as well, they will be slaughtered one by one if this continues.

Grey needs to prioritize one of these tasks. The fairy maids don't look like they will work well in smaller groups, and they seem to be relying on him to lead them.

[ ] Head toward the rear of the mansion. Perhaps Meiling is stuck fighting the youkai there.
[ ] Head toward the Voile library. Maybe you can assist Patchouli and Koakuma.
[ ] Head toward the basement. You can't let the little sister get involved in this.
[ ] Slowly sweep through each room as you retreat. The other fairy maids may need help.

Loading User Commands:
[X] Return to the gate. See what is causing the commotion.

---

Grey starts running back to the gate. Someone could be hurt.

As he approaches, he hears a chaotic mix of shouts, crashes, and buzzing sounds. He can't make out the voices, but something is definitely causing some damage. He dashes madly and clears the corner of the Mansion.

"Aaaieeeee! They're everywhere!"

"Calm down! Grab a weapon and~"

"CRASH!"

"It's got Siesta! Someone help her!"

"I've been stung! I've been stung!"

"SMASH!"

"Leave her! She won't make it!"

"Bu-but! I promised!"

"THUD!"

"Aim your shots! Make them count!"

"Die! Die! Die!"

Grey finds himself unable to take another step. The scene is unbelievable. Dozens of youkai hornets are flying over the gate and swarming over the grounds. Each of them is roughly two feet in length. The buzzing of their wings is deafening. Their mandibles and stingers look large enough to pierce through bone.

The fairy maids are scattered and unorganized as they try to fight back. Some are using their gardening tools as makeshift bludgeons, while others are firing off globes of light from their hands. Several fairies are lying dead or dying on the ground. They look like they are fighting a losing battle.

Grey recovers from his shock and tries to think.

[ ] Attack the youkai hornets with the Mauser C96.
[ ] Try to rally the fairy maids into an organized group.
[ ] Retreat into the Mansion and call for help.
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Accept Meirin's challenge. Chase after Patchouli.

---

"I accept, but instead of a regular match, let's make this one more interesting," Grey says.

Meirin's smile grows a bit wider.

"Patchouli just flew behind the corner over there," he says as he points. "First one to catch her wins."

"I accept your challenge. Any other rules?" Meirin says.

Grey pauses to think.

"No flying."

"Fair enough. Shall we start?"

"Yes, she might get away."

They start running at the same time, but Meirin quickly gains the lead. Grey sprints, but Meirin clears the corner within seconds.

"What the hell? Is she an Olympic runner or something," Grey mutters.

By the time Grey reaches the corner, Meirin is nowhere to be seen. He continues running at full speed for a couple of minutes before finally pausing to rest. He finds himself gasping for breath as he leans against a tree. His legs ache painfully. He should have warmed up at least.

A shrill scream fills the air. Someone might be in trouble. It seems to be coming from the gate.

"What now?," says Grey.

[ ] Continue running forward. Try to retrace Meirin's trail.
[ ] Return to the gate. See what is causing the commotion.
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Approach the woman.

---

"Good morning, my name is-"

The red-haired woman raises her hand to silence Grey. It seems that she is concentrating on her dance. It reminds him of martial arts somehow, but the movements themselves seem too slow for actual combat. Perhaps it is a ritual?

Grey takes a seat on the grass to wait for her to finish. He glances at the fairy maids and sees that they are quite focused in their work. As he watches, one of the maids spots him. She calls out to another maid, who turns around and waves at Grey. He recognizes her as the injured maid from the library attack. He waves back with a smile. The fairy maid blushes and bows before returning to her work. The other maids seem to be giggling at her.

Grey turns back to watch the red-haired woman. Her clothes contour the well-toned muscles of her arms and legs. She most certainly doesn't look like the sheltered type. However, her movements are quite graceful. Her silky red hair sways perfectly with her forms. Her eyes are clear and focused. She exudes confidence and purpose as she finishes her dance.

Suddenly, something unusual catches his eyes. He blinks as the vague pink and purple shape hovers across the grounds.

"What is Patchouli doing outside of the library," he mutters.

"Sorry about that, I just need to concentrate when I'm doing Tai Chi."

Grey turns back to the woman. Looks like she is talking to him.

"You must be the new butler. Sakuya said you did some pretty amazing things yesterday," she says cheerfully.

"I just did what I could to help, I wouldn't call it amazing," Grey says.

Grey gives her a polite smile as he surveys the area. Looks like Patchouli disappeared behind the corner of the Mansion at the far left side. If he hurries, maybe he can catch up with her.

"- with me."

Grey turns back to the woman.

"Excuse me?"

"I asked if you would have a match with me," she says.

Grey gives her a puzzled look.

"I am Hong Meirin, the gatekeeper of the Scarlet Devil Mansion," she says. "I would like to see first-hand what kind of person would impress Sakuya that much."

Grey shakes his head. "I dislike unnecessary violence."

"It's just a friendly match. Since you're human, you can even use weapons if you like," she says.

"Think fast," Grey mutters to himself.

[ ] Accept Meirin's challenge. Use the Mauser C96.
[ ] Accept Meirin's challenge. Use your fists.
[ ] Refuse Meirin's challenge. Offer to accompany her for lunch instead.
[ ] Refuse Meirin's challenge. Chase after Patchouli.
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Return to your room. (leave ammo crate)
[X] Look for a bath.
[X] Head outside.

---

Grey passes by his room and leaves the ammo crate in one of the cabinets. He pockets two extra clips for the pistol as an afterthought. Now that he has his hands free, he leaves the room.

He decides to look for a bath, as he isn't smelling very pleasant after all that work. He passes by the changing room to pick up a similar set of clothes before checking the doors randomly for a bath. He finds one after a few minutes of searching.

After making sure it is vacant, he locks the door. He takes a quick shower, then relaxes for about half an hour in the bath. He half expects some strange incident to occur while he lies naked in the water, but in the end, nothing happens. That sort of thing is usually best left to protagonists of a harem comedy.

Now clean and relaxed, he leaves the bath wearing a fresh set of clothes. "Cleanliness and all that, after all," he says to himself.

Grey decides to head outside. Perhaps he can find something to do there.

He manages to finds the main entrance to the Mansion. He opens it and surveys the area. To the right, some fairy maids are trimming the bushes, while a few are repairing a damaged window. To the left, there is a woman doing some sort of strange, slow dance. Directly in front of him is a path that leads to the main gate.

Grey glances back at the woman. She is wearing a green dress and beret that remind him of Chinese clothing. Her beret has a gold star with a strange symbol on it. She has blue-green eyes and long scarlet hair. She seems to be focused on her dance, and hasn't noticed Grey step out.

[ ] Approach the woman.
[ ] Talk to the fairy maids in the garden.
[ ] Head towards the gate.
[ ] Custom.

Different Shades of Gray

link to article

Loading User Commands:
[X] Firearms. Mauser C96

---

After wiping his sweat, Grey walks back to a firearms display that caught his eye.

The display label reads: "Mauser C96". This model was one of the first semi-automatic pistols. Variants of the pistol were used by a number of countries, including Germany, Russia, and Spain. The pistol on display seems to be an early German model.

Grey takes the gun from the display and inspects it. The Mauser seems to be in very good condition, though it looks used. He raises the pistol and tests its weight. It doesn't seem too heavy.

He turns back to the display case and spots a holster and small box of ammo clips. He takes a clip and loads the pistol. Then, he wears both the gun and holster, making sure they aren't visible under his coat. He picks up box of clips and heads out of the armory.

He glances at a window on his way out. Sure enough, it isn't even noon yet. Grey wonders how many hours Sakuya actually spends working in a single day. Manipulating time doesn't mean that the work would complete itself.

Looks like he has some time to kill.

[ ] Visit the Voile Library.
[ ] Visit the changing room.
[ ] Return to your room.
[ ] Look for a bath.
[ ] Explore the rest of the Mansion.
[ ] Head outside.
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Start cleaning. The room isn't going to clean itself.
[X] While cleaning, examine the weaponry to see what they have available.

---

Grey decides to start cleaning. He looks around and spots a mop, a bucket, some rags, and other cleaning implements lying nearby. He sighs as he takes a rag and some polish. Looks like this is going to be a long day.

After four hours of cleaning, he decides to take a break. He only finished polishing the armor and weapons on the left side of the room. He still has more to finish, not to mention the floor hasn't been mopped yet. His stomach grumbles noisily as he walks toward the entrance.

He is surprised to see a tray with sandwiches and tea lying near the entrance. Perhaps one of the fairy maids brought it in earlier. He takes a few minutes to eat before getting back to work.

After another four hours of cleaning, Grey manages to finish with the entire left side, including the floor. He lies on his back, xhausted. Then, he notices something strange as he looks out of the window. It isn't even noon yet. By his estimate, it should be around sunset by now, but the sun outside is clearly showing it is still morning. What the hell - it is as if time was stopped completely ever since he entered the armory.

He walks toward the entrance as he thinks. Sure enough, the tray has been replaced with another one. This tray is holding a large plate of pasta and a glass of wine. He takes the fork and begins eating.

"Must be Sakuya," he mutters.

Working like this, he can probably finish cleaning the armory before they get back. Is Sakuya helping him? Or maybe she is just doing this so someone can do all the work for her in a short span of time? Grey can't understand what the chief maid or her mistress is thinking. He sighs as he finishes his meal; he needs to get back to work.

Grey estimates that he must have worked for over sixteen hours by the time he finishes. Meals mysteriously arrived every four hours, but during the whole time, he was alone. He considered talking aloud, but the echo in the armory seriously creeped him out. As such, his diligence paid off. He surveys his work proudly - the armory looks great, perhaps even like a museum.

He leans against the wall for a moment to catch his breath. He takes a moment to think. While cleaning, he was able to examine practically every weapon and piece of armor in the room.

There was one weapon in particular that caught his eye.

[ ] Melee Weapons. Specify: (ex. bastard sword, two-handed axe, heavy mace, spear, etc.)
[ ] Archery. Specify: (ex. long bow, heavy crossbow, composite bow, etc.)
[ ] Firearms. Specify: (ex. musket, revolver, rifle, etc.)
[ ] Custom

(any selection must have been in use no later than 1900)

"What the hell?" Grey mutters.

He thought that Remilia was a kind and understanding person. She didn't kill him and drink his blood. She didn't make him Flandre's plaything or Sakuya's pincushion. In fact, she provided him a job and a place to stay, which is probably the only reason he is still alive. Perhaps she wasn't as nice as he first thought.

The Armory isn't as big as the Voile Library, at the very least. It is the size of a large warehouse. Various weapons lie in countless racks and crates around the room. It is next to impossible to finish cleaning the place before Remilia gets back. Is this her idea of a joke?

The weapons seem to come from various eras before the 1900s, perhaps it is a collection of some sort? There are some weapons that don't come from Europe, such as a Persian Shamshir and a Japanese Katana and matching Wakizashi. There even seem to be a few firearms of some sort. Grey notes that all the weapons seem to be well-maintained, despite the age.

"If you see anything you can use, you can borrow it," Remilia wrote. Perhaps he can find something useful while cleaning.

He sighs as he looks at the job ahead of him.

[ ] Start cleaning. The room isn't going to clean itself.
[ ] Browse through the weapons. Maybe you can find something you can use.
[ ] Leave the armory. Perhaps you can find something else to do.
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Head to the kitchen and make yourself some breakfast.
[X] Stop by the Voile Library. Chat with Koakuma if she's there, and not busy.
[X] Afterwards, head to the Armory and get cleaning.

---

After a quick breakfast at the kitchen, Grey decides to stop by the Voile Library. It is on the way to the Armory anyway. Maybe he can have a chat with Koakuma if she isn't busy.

He reaches the library entrance without meeting anyone. Perhaps the fairy maids are working outside?

Koakuma walks by carrying a books. She looks exhausted.

"Good morning!" Grey says in his cheeriest voice.

Koakuma looks up and manages a weak smile.

"Good morning," she says with a bow. "Have you recovered from yesterday?"

"Yep, and I have you and Patchouli to thank for it. Feel good as new, actually," replies Grey.

Koakuma hangs her head down slightly. She seems troubled.

"I mean, are you okay? I heard about the incident with Sakuya and Flandre yesterday. You were almost killed..."

"That was just a misunderstanding," Grey says as he almost loses composure.

Sakuya certainly looked like she was going to tear him to shreds. And Flandre was completely unpredictable; she acted so innocent, despite her unexpected violence.

"In any case, I think it's all fine now. I'm still alive, after all," he manages.

Koakuma looks up, worried. He needs to change the subject.

"I was just wondering if you are free for a cup of tea and polite conversation," Grey says, smiling.

Koakuma brightens up immediately, though she looks a bit hesitant.

"I'm a bit busy at the moment," she says. "Perhaps we can have some tea this afternoon?"

"Sounds wonderful. I always enjoy good company with good tea," says Grey.

Koakuma looks away, blushing.

"I-I-I need to get back to work," she says as she walks away.

Loading User Commands:
[X] Open Remilia's letter.
[X] Visit Sakuya's room.

---

After finishing his morning rituals and changing into his uniform, Grey manages to calm himself down.

He takes a seat on his bed and opens Remilia's letter.

"I am heading to the Hakurei Shrine this morning. Sakuya
is accompanying me there. We have some business to
discuss with the shrine maiden. Perhaps some others
will be there, as well.

For this morning, you are to clean up the Armory. It is located at the first floor - if you are coming from the kitchen, it is past the Voile Library. You can ask the maids for
directions if you get lost.

The other maids have already been assigned duties, so you are to complete this alone. I expect it to be spotless before I return this afternoon.

If you see anything you can use, you may borrow it.

- Remilia"

Grey sighs as he pockets the letter. He hopes that the Armory isn't nearly as large as the library. Looks like he is going to be busy. Hopefully nothing strange happens today.

Speaking of strange things, he should check on Sakuya.

Grey leaves straight for Sakuya's room. As he walks, he notices that the path is exactly as he saw in his dreams - each turn, each door, each window, even the number of lights is the same. Before he realizes it, he is standing before her room.

He knocks several times. No one answers. He starts to get nervous. He tries the knob, but the door is locked.

Grey pauses to think: if something really happened, then Remilia would be at his neck by now. After all, Sakuya is accompanying her to the Shrine. Perhaps they are already there, enjoying a cup of tea. Breaking into Sakuya's room seems to be a bad idea.

He considers what to do next.
[ ] Head to the kitchen and make yourself some breakfast.
[ ] Head to the Armory.
[ ] Visit the Voile Library.
[ ] Visit the changing room.
[ ] Explore the rest of the Mansion.
[ ] Head outside of the Mansion.
[ ] Custom.

Loading User Commands:
[X] Custom

---

Grey wakes up with a start, panting heavily. He wipes the cold sweat from his brow as he calms himself down.

"What the hell was that?" he asks himself.

That dream felt real. He remembers every step he took as he stepped out of his room. He remembers every detail of the walk. He even knows the location of Sakuya's room, despite never being told. And somehow, he knows that if he follows the same path, he'll find it exactly as it was in the dream.

He recalls barging into Sakuya's room. He remembers the conversation in detail, even the tone and volume of his voice. He remembers mocking and overpowering her, despite her powers.

He even remembers the sensation when he violated her. The smell of her hair. The smooth, soft touch of her skin. The suction and the rythm, he could remember everything as if it was done moments ago. He looks down to see himself get excited at this. He slaps himself, hard.

Then he remembers what he did to her afterward.

Before he realizes it, a few tears flow down his eyes as recalls each moment. He hangs his head down in shame and guilt, letting the tears flow freely to the floor. Worst of it was the horror. The horror that he realized his own feelings when he did that to Sakuya.

He enjoyed it. He savored it all: mocking, subduing, violating, and finally...

"Monster," he whispers.

It takes several minutes before Grey finally recovers from the shock. He manages to get himself out of bed to look out of the window. A dreary fog covers the lake and forest. Not exactly a pleasant omen.

Seems like it is mid morning.

He considers what to do next.
[ ] Head to the kitchen and make yourself some breakfast.
[ ] Open Remilia's letter.
[ ] Visit Sakuya's room.
[ ] Visit the Voile Library.
[ ] Visit the changing room.
[ ] Explore the rest of the Mansion.
[ ] Head outside of the Mansion.
[ ] Custom.

What should he take with him?
[ ] Custom

He zips his pants and adjusts it to be presentable. Then, he heads into Sakuya's bathroom to wash his face. He feels quite satisfied, almost merry, even. Breaking her will was far more enjoyable than he imagined.

However, he didn't come her just to break her will.

He returns to the bedroom and looks down at Sakuya. She lies helplessly on the floor in shock. It seems that even without using his skills, she is of no threat to anyone now. She looks pathetic, a shadow of her usual pride and elegance. She is broken, even if she was left alive, she would be of no use to anyone.

He sighs as he steps toward her.

He still has one more thing to do.

[ ] Manipulate her into committing suicide.
[ ] Kill her yourself.

He sits himself on the bed, holding the end of the rope. He jerks it in a single, sudden motion, forcing Sakuya to kneel in front of him. She looks up at him, with a look that mixed defiance and terror.

But she can't speak.

He puts a finger into Sakuya's mouth. She begins licking it delicately, despite her angry expression. Then, the opens her mouth and gobbles it.

She sucks at the finger hungrily. She sucks at it noisily, letting her spittle drip to the floor.

"A-a-ah!," she moans as he pulls the finger away. He grins as he motions his hand lazily.

Sakuya crawls forward on her knees and tries to reach for his pants. However, this proves impossible, as her wrists are tied behind her back. She somehow manages to unclasp his pants using her tongue.

She then bites at the zipper, pulling it carefully down. Her motions quickly excite him. She then licks desperately at his manhood, manipulating her tongue over his underwear.

He lets her continue this motion for a whole minute, enjoying the sensation.

"Alright, I suppose I'll have to help out, since you're all tied up," he says.

She says nothing in reply, but her eyes are beginning to tear up.

He frees his penis, slowly and deliberately, enjoying the horrified expression in Sakuya's eyes. He dangles it in front of her face for a moment before making another gesture with his hand.

Sakuya sticks her tongue out and carefully probes his member. First, the licks the top of the shaft, gradually moving down its length. Then, she laps the area around his shaft completely. Finally, she tickes his scrotum meticulously, as if enjoying a sweet treat.

"Not bad. Perhaps I've underestimated you? I wonder how it would feel if you did this willingly...", he comments.

Sakuya opens her mouth and starts experimenting with the top of his shaft. She carefully tests its length, taking as much of it inside. Then, she pulls her mouth slowly back up, relaxing her throat. She moves her mouth forward into it again, this time going deeper, before pulling herself backward. She continues this motion, building up both rythm and suction as she bobs her head up and down.

Up and down. Up and down. Up and down. The sensation is incredible.

Up and down. Up and down. Up and down. Her head bobs erratically in uneven intervals.

Up and down. Up and down. Up and down. She seems to be experimenting with different paces, finding the most effective speed.

Up and down. Up and down. Up and down. She found the optimum rythm. She keeps it up like clockwork. He didn't expect her body to adapt this quickly.

Up and down. Up and down. Up and down. She looks up at him, tears flowing freely from her eyes. The defiance she showed earlier has vanished. He almost feels pity.

Up and down. Up and down. Up and down. The sensation is simply incredible, at this rate, he is going to...

"MMMPH!"

He empties himself into her throat. Sakuya swallows every drop as if it was made of the finest wine.

He lies with his back on the bed, panting. He motions his hand reflexively to maintain control. Her technique almost broke his concentration. In fact, he is almost sure that he lost control during the orgasm. He raises his head and takes a peek at Sakuya.

She lies in a heap on the floor, shivering uncontrollably. She sheds silent tears in torrents, since she still has no control of her mouth. Exposed, vulnerable, then finally violated, it looks like her mind can't take much more of this.

He sighs.

Looks like the fun is over.

Loading User Commands:
[X] Rope

---

"You'll pay for this you piece of shit scum!," Sakuya says.

Still holding the rope, he raises his other hand in a smooth motion. Sakuya stands up and begins to undress herself.

"E-e-eh?"

Sakuya slowly unties her apron. Then, she carefully removes her dress, letting it drop to the floor. She stands in front him, with her white silk undershirt and panties exposed.

"Wh-wh-what the hell are you doing?"

He smiles, completely enjoying the sight. She is still wearing her white frilly headband and her knee-socks. For some reason, he feels that this would have a better effect.

"You look really cute like this," he says.

"Sick pervert!"

His smile widens. He savors her humiliation. But this is not enough. He makes another gesture with his free hand.

Sakuya meticulously unties her ribbon. Then, she carefully unbuttons her shirt, exposing a pleasant and surprising sight.

"Ahaha, does Remilia know about this?"

Sakuya says nothing, turning bright-red. Quite a refreshing look for her, embarrassment.

He then lowers his free hand, causing Sakuya to crumple on the ground. He begins to tie her ankles together.

"Don't touch me, you son of a bitch!"

He ignores her and continues his work. He ties her wrists behind her, then as a final touch, he loops the rope around her neck. The knot around her neck is a cross between a leash and a hangman's noose. He pulls at the rope, causing her to cringe.

"Enjoying your sick fetish? I can see your face practically quivering in delight."

He drops her on the ground, allowing her to fall face first. She grunts in pain as he grips the rope and lifts her. He looks straight at her eyes, enjoying her anger and fear.

"Forgive me if I borrow the use of your mouth for a moment. Don't worry, I will leave your mind completely free to think and feel. It isn't any fun if you lose control completely..."

Sakuya motions her hand deeper into her uniform, as if looking for something.

"You have quite some guts to come at me like this," she says. "You know what I am capable of. But no matter, I think I can disable you before we get any more distracted. Lady Remilia will most certainly be displeased at this."

He gives her a slight nod.

"Go ahead."

In an instant, her hands are holding long knives. She makes a quick motion, then throws them.

"W-w-what the hell?"

All of the knives miss. She never missed before. Especially not at a stationary target.

"That was quite rude, you know," he says.

Wasting no time, Sakuya has another set of knives ready in her hands. He is no longer smiling.

"I was hoping that this could be pleasant for both of us, but now I've changed my mind."

He raises his hand. Sakuya freezes in place. He snaps his fingers. Sakuya drops her knives. He takes a step forward. Sakuya drops her to her knees.

"You bastard! What the hell are you planning? How are you doing this?"

He looks at her thoughtfully.

"You have other things to worry about."

He makes a few strange gestures. Sakuya rises and sits herself on the bed.

"But I will tell you this: soon, I'll be able to inspire the very stones in the ground to rise up and serve me."

He takes something out of his pocket.
[ ] Rope
[ ] Candles
[ ] Handcuffs
[ ] Bicycle Chain

Loading User Commands:
[X] Sakuya

---

He opens the door.

Sakuya is leaning against the wall, holding a cup of tea.

"Barging into someone's room uninvited? That's not like you."

He gives a polite smile as he closes the door behind him.

"I thought you respected my work?" he asks.

Sakuya gives him a sardonic grin.

"I do. That is precisely why I think you should go."

She takes a sip from her tea before putting it down on the desk.

"This is unlike you," she says.

Without warning, he locks the door behind him, then gives Sakuya a polite bow.

"This night is unlike others," he says.

"How so?," she asks, face expressionless. Her left hand is fidgeting under her uniform.

"Because tonight, I am not here to provide service."

His smile widens.

"Tonight, I am here to receive it."

Loading User Commands:
[X] Go to sleep.

---

"A new moon," he says.

It is time.

He takes one last look out of the window before leaving his room.

Hallways. This Mansion is full of these damned hallways. Hallways that sometimes loop unexpectedly, or hallways that lead to dead ends. To a newcomer, the place is a labyrinth.

But he is no newcomer.

He walks carefully and quietly. Most of the Mansion's inhabitants are in their own rooms at this time. To be sure, he heads toward the less used wing of the Mansion. As expected, he meets no one as he walks.

He is all too familiar with these hallways. He has walked all over the Mansion, working and watching. Watching and searching, he remembers how he despaired. Searching and finding, he remembers what he discovered. Finding and waiting, he remembers how he patiently anticipated this day.

The day when he would finally...

He stands before a room.

This room belongs to?
[ ] Remilia
[ ] Sakuya
[ ] Patchouli
[ ] Flandre
[ ] Koakuma

Grey stands alone in his room. He sighs in relief. Somehow, it looks like he is going to survive the end of this day.

He takes from his pocket a sealed letter.

"Open this tomorrow morning, it lists your tasks for the day. Don't forget." Remilia instructed.

As he changes into the sleeping wear left for him (probably by the maids), he thinks about what to do next.

The day was tiring and stressful. Exploring the Mansion tonight seems like a bad idea. He could open the letter and read it now; it shouldn't make much of a difference, right? He can also leave that till tomorrow morning.

[ ] Open the letter now.
[ ] Go to sleep.

Grey is standing with Sakuya in the kitchen. After dinner, she motioned for him to follow. It seems like she wants to talk with him alone.

"Would you like to ask some questions? I'll answer as best as I can," Grey says.

Sakuya shakes her head.

"I'm in no mood for that. So many things happened today: the youkai attack, our chat in the kitchen, then your performance. I need some time for this to sink in."

Grey stifles a laugh. Sakuya looks up, slightly irritated.

"Sorry, I just never thought I'd hear that from you. About needing time, I mean."

Sakuya sighs and shrugs.

"More importantly, I would like to apologize for my earlier behaviour. I wasn't myself, that was shameful."

She looks down and shuffles her feet.

"Hurting a guest, and another human at that. After everything that Lady Remilia has done for me, I dared let that side of me out again."

Grey rubs his neck reflexively as they stand quietly for a moment.

"I'm still alive, so don't worry about it. I'm sure you only meant to protect everyone in the Mansion," he says. Better deal with this smoothly; no telling what would set her off again.

Sakuya looks up with a determined expression on her face.

"Thank you very much. If you need anything, just ask."

Grey nods.

"I like interesting things. Your stories are interesting. They make me laugh. Falling stars are interesting. I just go "kyu" and they go boom! Danmaku is interesting. I like the bright colors and sounds. Let's see what else..."

Flandre pauses.

"Sweet things are interesting. I like strawberries, manju, and visitors. They make me feel warm inside. Except for ice cream; it's cold, but I like that too. I don't like too many cold things, though. They give me a headache. Sometimes I can't remember, but cold things aren't good for me."

"Except for ice cream?" Grey asks.

Flandre smiles happily. "Yeah, I like ice cream!" she immediately replies.

"I like ice cream too." Grey says, smiling.

"Two? I guess I can have two ice creams, but big sister says it isn't good to eat too much. I hear you can die if you eat too much, but what does gambling or painting have to do with it? I tried painting before, but the brush broke and I was sad. I don't like being sad..."

Grey quickly interjects, "But you are happy now at dinner, right?"

Flandre quickly cheers up.

"Yep, I like being with big sister. I just don't like going out too much. Gets kinda confusing outside, and that's annoying. Big sister is definitely not annoying though. I like her very much!"

Remilia smiles gently as she hears this.

"Let's see, I also like playing with Sakuya and China. Patchy is fun too when she isn't giving me lectures. Lectures make me fall asleep, no matter how hard I try. I keep telling her that, but she just gives me books instead. Those make me sleepy too. But one time, Marisa came to visit and that was fun. We flew all around the house. She disappeared after a while, though. She didn't die, so that makes me happy."

Flandre takes a moment to consider Grey.

"I think I like you," she says smiling.

Grey chokes on his soup and coughs violently. Remilia just chuckles. Sakuya is looking away. Is she pitying him?

He stays silent and focuses on his meal. Flandre starts conversing with Remilia instead. They do seem to get along, but he feels some sort of awkwardness about it. Remilia seems a bit strained as she speaks, though she is clearly quite happy. He wonders if something happened in the past.

After the main course, the maids bring in the dessert.

"Strawberries and cream, as you like it." Remilia says.

"Thanks, big sister!"

Grey can't help but smile at Flandre's childlike innocence. Remilia has a surprising sisterly side about her, as well. They both have their own qualities, but together like this, he can't help but watch it in awe.

Loading User Commands:
[X] Custom

---

"... our eyes were locked in mortal combat. In the end, the creature fled, yelping like the mongrel it is," Grey says, complete with exaggerated gestures and sound effects. He continues narrating his exploits, up to the part where he is almost knocked unconscious (he used his will to stay conscious, remembering the fabled "Iron Heart Surge").

"And finally, we were all able to have our tea in peace."

Remilia smiles at the performance, clearly enjoying herself. Flandre giggles innocently, as if listening to a children's story. Even Sakuya seems at ease. However, neither Patchouli nor Koakuma are having dinner with them. Remilia mentioned that Patchouli rarely leaves the library. It seems that this morning was an exception.

"Excellent. You may earn your full name yet," Remilia says.

"That was a really funny story! I wish I was awake to see it," says Flandre.

Grey turns to Flandre. Right now, she looks like an innocent little girl. She really doesn't seem as dangerous as the rumors imply.

She is just a little... odd.

"Do you like stories, Flandre? What sort of things do you like?"

System Hint:
The day has been long, tiring and stressful. Perhaps one should try talking about a pleasant topic? Dinner isn't usually a venue for an interrogation.

Loading User Commands:
[X] Custom

---

After his performance, the Scarlet sisters leave the room.

"Dinner should be ready," Remilia says as she walks out.

Grey carefully fits his instrument into its case. He takes a thoughtful look at the silk rope that Flandre left behind. After making sure no one else is in the room, he pockets it as well.

He passes by his room on the second floor to leave a few items: the silk rope, the note, the broken door knob handle, the blindfold, the cloth gag, and the bicycle chain.

With his pockets a bit less full, he heads toward the dining room.

---

[X] Inventory
A Stradivarius violin. It seems to have a life of its own.
A violin case. Self explanatory.
A few pieces of blank stationary. You'll need something to write with, first.
A map of the East Wing of the Voile library.
Nothing special is marked on it.
A catalogue listing books in the East Wing. It isn't very thick, but the print is small and hard to read.
A pair of police handcuffs and keys. Heavy-duty.
Three small candles. You'll need some matches.

---

He considers what he should talk about during dinner as he walks.

[ ] Custom

[X] Inventory
A small note. It reads "To use, aim and throw hard."
A few pieces of blank stationary. You'll need something to write with, first.
A map of the East Wing of the Voile library. Nothing special is marked on it.
A catalogue listing books in the East Wing. It isn't very thick, but the print is small and hard to read.
A broken door knob handle. It seems pretty useless.
A blindfold. It seems to be part of a magician's set.
A cloth gag. Not very funny, in your opinion.
A pair of police handcuffs and keys. Heavy-duty.
A bicycle chain. You can't remember what you were thinking when you took it.
Three small candles. You'll need some matches.

The clapping of a single pair of hands breaks the silence.

Grey looks up at his audience. Flandre is sitting on the floor with the length of rope lying carelessly beside her. Her eyes are half-open, and she wears an innocent smile, as if remembering a pleasant memory. Sakuya is leaning on the wall, her hands covering her face. She seems to be wiping something off her face.

Grey turns toward the source of applause, and is mildly surprised at the third member of the audience. During the whole performance, he failed to notice that Remilia had entered the room. She has a mysterious smile as she finishes clapping.

"Excellent. Or perhaps, shall I say that this was just as expected? It seems I was not mistaken in choosing you, Grey," Remilia says.

"Lady Remilia?," Sakuya says as she stands at attention.

"Big Sister?," Flandre says as she turns around.

"Sakuya, be sure to have enough food brought to the dining room. It seems that my sister will be joining us. We can discuss your concerns afterward."

"O-of course, Lady Remilia. It seems that I might have misunderstood our guest. I'll see to the preparations immediately," Sakuya says.

She gives a low bow before vanishing. Grey isn't quite sure, but for a moment, he thought that she smiled at him.

Flandre remains seated as she faces Grey. She has a strange expression of longing on her face. Perhaps she would like to listen to more?

Grey turns to Remilia, who simply nods.

He turns his attention back to instrument in his hands. It seems that he will be playing a few more pieces until dinner.

What is Grey taking after his little concert?
[ ] The Stradivarius violin.
[ ] The violin case.
[ ] The length of silk rope.

Grey's pockets are almost full. He can pass by his room before dinner to leave a few items.
[ ] Custom

As if in a trance, Grey steps toward the Stradivarius. Drawn by some ethereal force, he finds himself standing before it. Before anyone can react, he lifts off the glass case and cradles the instrument in his hands.

Flandre stops and stares at Grey with a puzzled expression. Sakuya watches with mouth agape, but says nothing. Grey stays silent, as he needs no words to explain.

He knows not how to read notes, nor is he trained in musical study, but at this moment, he knows what he must do. He listens as the violin itself seems to lead his arms and hands into place. He raises the violin into position and draws its bow.

The first piece he plays is a dirge for the fallen. They lay strewn about the room, the broken and beaten. They will never again be held by careful hands, nor will they ever bring about sweet sounds into this world. He plays sorrowfully, as this is an elegy for what has been lost and can never be recovered.

"And then there were none," he whispers.

The second piece he plays still retains a shadow of a somber tune, yet it reminds one of a feeling of approaching danger. Filled with suspense and mystery, the tune gets steadily faster, perhaps reflecting the beating of one's heart as fear creeps in. He remains focused as he plays a smooth coda as a transition to the next piece.

"Even without the moon, it is time" he whispers.

The third piece he plays maintains a quick pace, a bit faster than classical allegro. The direction of the music reflects expressiveness and heightened emotions. He uses focused movements as he makes each stroke with precision and speed. He ends the piece with an improvision of his own, a cadenza of sorts.

He pauses as the room is filled with awe.

Load User Commands:
[X] Play a sad tune on the Stradivarius, for the fallen piano.

---

[~There is a way...]

Grey looks around at the ruins that lay before him. To his left stands an unstable force of destruction in the form of a young blonde girl. To his right stands a cold and calculating woman who nearly killed him. Siding with either guarantees neither his survival, nor their trust.

[~Perhaps you can see it...]

Sakuya is blocking the entrance. Flandre has destroyed most of the things he can hide behind. Breaking through a window is impossible without getting unneeded attention.

[~If you look beyond just trying to survive...]

He can see no one else, but he feels another presence in the room. It is struggling to make itself known. It is fighting, but not to preserve its existence.

[~And start trying to live...]

It lies within a glass case in the corner, an instrument of the "golden age". Its quality of sound defies both explanation and reproduction. Maintaining its excellence over hundreds of years, some consider it to have a life of its own.

Flandre leads Grey into a large room in the first floor. Looking inside, it looks to be a music room of some sort. There is large piano in the corner, while some notes and lyrics are written on a blackboard beside it. There are a few loose chairs in the center.

On the opposite side, there are glass cases, each containing an instrument. There seems to be a flute, piccolo, cello, and all sorts of other instruments. Grey pauses as he notices something in the corner. Is that a Stradivarius violin?

"Sakuya always comes running when I do this," Flandre says as she walks toward the piano.

Flandre raises her metal rod high into the air. Before Grey can say anything, she smashes it deep into the piano. She raises her rod up and strikes the helpless instrument several more times until it is reduced to a pitiful pile in the corner.

"Isn't this too much?", Grey mutters as she walks over toward the glass cases. As expected, she pauses before each one and smashes each with a single stroke. Sounds of shattered glass and instruments echo out into the hallway. She really seems to be enjoying this.

Flandre pauses for a moment, then walks toward the last instrument in the corner. "This is definitely too much," Grey thinks. He can't let the Stradivarius be destroyed, but he is in no position to try and stop her now.

"What the hell? Flandre, what are you doing!"

Grey turns toward the voice. Sakuya just entered the room. She looks positively horrified.

It looks like she hasn't noticed Grey.

[ ] "You're going too far, Flandre!"
[ ] "Time to play with Sakuya, Flandre!"
[ ] "What's going on in here?"
[ ] Quietly sneak out of the room.
[ ] Custom

"First, we'll need the rope," Flandre mutters.

Grey pants as he is half-lead and half-dragged around the mansion. They head all the way to the second floor, running down hallways Grey hasn't seen. Eventually, they stop. The door in front of them looks normal, except for the sign, "Private". Grey checks the doorknob.

"It's locked," Grey says in relief. However, Flandre simply smiles. She seems to be moving something in her free hand.

"Check it again," Flandre says playfully.

Grey tries the knob again, only to have it fall into his hand. A dull thud confirms that the other half of the knob fell off, as well. Flandre pushes the door open and beckons him to follow.

The room looks like a storage area, as it is full of boxes and bags. There seem to be a variety of items in the room; some of them look like they come from the Outside.

"I think the rope was kept somewhere over there," Flandre says. "I'll look for it. If you see anything interesting, you can bring it too."

She flies toward the back of the room and begins searching.

Grey takes a few steps and looks around. It is probably a good idea to simply go along with her, at this point. "Well, if she's taking this seriously," he says under his breath.

After a few minutes, Flandre flies back holding a length of rope. Looking closer, the rope seems to be made of silk, and looks quite soft. It probably can't chafe the skin. Wait. Why is something like this in the Mansion?

"Nice haul, this is going to be more fun than manjuu, eh?," Flandre says as she eyes the objects in Grey's hands.

Grey is holding quite a few things: a blindfold, a cloth gag, a pair of police handcuffs and keys, a bicycle chain, and a few small candles. He looks down at the items and quickly pockets them. Maybe he really is getting a bit carried away...

"Now to find Sakuya!", Flandre says cheerfully.

Loading User Commands:
[x] Suggest that you and her should get some rope, find Sakuya, and hogtie her for fun.

---

Grey suggests the first thing that comes to mind.

"Why don't we get some rope, find Sakuya, and hogtie her for fun?"

He pauses. "Did I just say that?," he mouths. That is suicide. Sakuya is currently after his life. However, he finds the also finds the thought pleasantly perverted. "It would be nice to teach that cold bitch some manners," he thinks. He shakes his head. He must be insane.

"Sounds great!"

Grey looks up at Flandre. She is smiling at him brightly.

"Lemme get dressed! Been a while since I went up," she says.

Flandre flutters toward the wardrobe. Before Grey can avert his eyes, she vanishes.

"Huh?"

He surveys the room. "Where'd she go?" he mutters. There aren't any exits besides the one behind him. For a couple of minutes, he examines the room closely. Is there a trapdoor or a secret entrance? As he is about to examine the wardrobe itself, he feels something poke his ribs.

"It's rude to go through a girl's things, you know? Are you a pervert?"

He turns around to see Flandre grinning at him, despite the comment. She is fully dressed in a frilly red dress and vest, with a pink shirt underneath. She wears a poofy pink hat with a red ribbon. Looking closer, her wings seem to be made up of two metal rods attached with crystals of all sorts. It vaguely reminds Grey of a Christmas Tree. She seems to be holding a slightly curved metal wand.

Before he can reply, she takes Grey's hand and pulls him toward the door.

"Let's go! Let's go! She might get away!"

Loading User Commands:
[X] Apologize for the intrusion and explain that you're a little lost and confused right now; introduce yourself.
[X] Offer to escort her around the mansion until dinner.

---

Grey quickly pulls himself together and stands up, brushing dust off his pants.

"I apologize for the intrusion, I'm a little lost at the moment. The layout of the Mansion is a bit confusing for a newcomer."

Grey clears his throat and prepares a polite smile.

"My name is Grey. Lady Remilia recently employed me as her new butler," he says with a bow.

Hearing this, Flandre loses interest. She yawns and crawls back under the covers.

Grey thinks quickly - if she falls asleep now, Sakuya can easily come inside and drag him out of the room.

"I-if you'd like, I can escort the Little Sister around the mansion until dinner."

Flandre peeks her head out of the covers and pouts.

"Don't feel like it. Sakuya brings dinner here anyway."

"A walk around the Mansion would be good for the Little Sister." Grey suggests.

"It's too early to get up. Going up to do something is a bother."

Despite this, Flandre pushes the covers away and stretches. She is wearing some pink pajamas and a single red ribbon in her hair. She looks at Grey innocently.

"Unless you have something interesting for me to do?"

Despite her childlike expression, it seems that she is quite sharp. Truly, she is Remilia's sister.

Grey pauses to think.

[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Enter the room in front of him.

---

No choice, going back is certain death.

Grey tosses the bloody napkin to the side as he rushes forward. "No time to lose," he tells himself as he opens the door, enters, and locks the door behind him. He closes his eyes for a few moments to listen for footsteps. He calms down as he listens to the silence.

He opens his eyes to survey the room he just entered. It looks like a child's bed room. A chestful of broken toys lie in the lefthand corner. An open cabinet beside it is overflowing with torn dolls and cracked plastic figures. The floor itself is strewn with doll parts, cracked pieces of plastic, and other pieces of what might have been a child's toy. A large empty bed stands in the center. On the right corner is a shelf full of books, as well as a desk and chair for studying. They seem unused, almost new, even.

"Why is this giving me a bad feeling," Grey thinks.

He continues looking around the room. He notes that there are floating globes providing light (probably magical), but no other windows or doors besides the one he came in. He looks back at the bed to see a doll's eyes staring at him.

Suddenly, the eyes blink. Its owner shuffles on the bed to get a better look at Grey.

Blonde hair, red eyes, and strange "wings" made of metal and crystals.

He recognizes her immediately.

Flandre Scarlet is now looking at Grey curiously. Her eyes are still a bit glazed, but it looks like she will be completely awake in a few moments.

Grey uses all of his will to hide his panic.

Think.

[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Hide in the basement.

---

Grey decides against heading to any place he has been before. Sakuya will probably search for him in those places first. Then, he recalls the unlit stairs from yesterday - Koakuma seemed nervous when they passed it.

"Maybe Sakuya won't check there," he says to himself. "I just hope I'm not out of the frying pan and into the fire..."

He quickly runs down the hallway toward the stairs. He runs down the spiraling steps deep into the basement. Soon, the only light is a faint glimmer at the very bottom. Reaching the end of the steps without mishap, he pauses to catch his breath.

"I can't see shit, Cap'n!," he mumbles as he waits for his eyes adjust. At least his neck wound has stopped bleeding. He absentmindedly wipes his neck with the napkin as he tries to think.

There seems to be a room of some sort in front of him. He can also head back the same way he came in. There are no other visible exits.

Then, he hears a faint sound from above. Was it a footstep?

Grey needs to move quickly.

[ ] Enter the room in front of him.
[ ] Head back the way he came.
[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:
[X] Head back to the library; the surest way to survive is to make yourself useful.

---

Grey decides to head back to the library. He needs to find help. He can probably get Patchouli or Koakuma to calm Sakuya down.

He runs down the hallways towards the library. He reaches its entrance without meeting a soul. "There are hardly any fairy maids inside the mansion," he says to himself.

He runs inside to face the countless shelves in the library. Checking his pockets, he finds the map and list Koakuma gave him earlier. Unfortunately, the map and list only describe the books and shelves of the East Wing. The door closes behind him, making him jump.

Desperate, he decides to take his chances with the shelves. He runs along, taking a left turn, then taking a right turn, haphazardly guessing. "Where the hell are they," he mutters as he continues searching.

After fifteen minutes of running, Grey rests his back on one of the shelves, exhausted. He hasn't found Patchouli. He has found no sign of Koakuma. He has a nagging feeling that he is being followed. And he is sure that he is lost.

Suddenly, he hears a single footstep. He raises his head to see Sakuya standing in front of him.

"Just give up, no one can hear you scream this deep into the library."

Grey exerts his last ounce of strength to cry for help, but no one comes.

This, however, does succeed in making Sakuya even more angry. In a few seconds, Grey becomes nothing more than a bloody piece of meat impaled with knives.

Sakuya regrets it almost immediately. Now, she won't be able to question him.

BAD END

Sakuya frowns at Grey.

"Last night, Remilia told me that we had a guest. All I did was check which room was being used. I saw you looking out of the window before I left. I was told not to disturb you."

"Then you didn't leave those notes, the letter, or that digital watch for me to find?" Grey asks.

"A digital watch... from the Outside?"

Grey nods. Sakuya pauses for a moment, trying to remember. Then she vanishes.

Suddenly, pain. He feels like someone just threw him across the room.

Grey opens his eyes to see an arm pinning him against the wall. The other arm is holding knives close to his neck. Its owner is staring darkly into his eyes. It takes a moment for the scene to register in his head.

"Sakuya?" he asks weakly.

"Who the hell are you? Who sent you? Who are you working for? Answer me, you lying scum!"

"I don't know what you are talking about! I already told you, I can't remember anything!"

Sakuya presses one of the knives against his neck.

"I won't allow anyone to harm Lady Remilia, or anyone in this house again! Now tell me the truth before I start slicing off your fingers."

Grey feels blood trickle down his neck. He looks up to see yet another side of Sakuya.

This is nothing like her usual cold, calculating demeanor. This is a world apart from that single, genuine smile. This is uncontrolled rage. Pure anger and hatred. Killing intent, without reason nor remorse. She is going to kill him where he stands, with or without an answer. He is going to die.

They stand like that in silence for what seems like eternity. Then, they hear footsteps. Someone is walking nearby.

"Dammit!", Sakuya says.

She pulls herself away from Grey. The knives vanish from her hands.

"We will finish this at another time," she says before vanishing completely.

Grey rubs his neck as he tries to calm himself down. The wound isn't deep, but he needs to stop the bleeding. He quickly finds a table napkin from a nearby drawer and presses it against the wound.

The footsteps are now fading away; the person must have just passed by the hallway.

Grey needs to get away from here. If Sakuya finds him, he is dead for sure.

[ ] Head toward his room on the second floor.
[ ] Wander the hallways on the first floor.
[ ] Try to find a way outside.
[ ] Hide in the basement.

Loading User Commands:
[X] "What were those things? Those crochounds. Do you know where they came from, or what they wanted here?"
[X] "You mentioned something about a barrier?"
[X] Okay, deep breath. "I found a watch and a notebook with a vague and ominous warning written in it in the drawer of the nightstand in my room. Soon after I found my door had magically unlocked itself somehow, without anyone appearing to enter or exit the room. Was any of that you?"

---

Grey decides to start with the immediate concern.

"What were those things - those crochounds? Do you know where they came from, or what they wanted here?"

Sakuya shakes her head.

"We aren't sure ourselves. For the past few weeks, there have been attacks around the area. At first, only humans from the Village were involved, so we didn't mind it. Then, some of the fairy staff were getting attacked; we got most of our information from those that reincarnated. Today was the first time the creatures actually broke in."

She pauses for a moment before continuing.

"Patchouli, myself, China, and even most of the fairy staff are strong enough to easily crush wild youkai, but those creatures are something else. They are physically tough, and seem to have some resistance to magical effects as well."

"You mentioned something about a barrier?" Grey asks.

Sakuya nods.

"Patchouli set up a magical barrier around the Mansion and the grounds. The barrier is strong enough to prevent the entry of humans and weaker youkai. Only powerful youkai and humans like the Black-White or the Red-White have the ability to break through at will. The main gate is the only point where the barrier can be opened to allow regular entry of guests, but we have China to handle that."

Sakuya closes her eyes, seemingly in deep thought.

"What worries me is how those things broke in. The youkai themselves didn't seem powerful enough to force their way on their own. It would take something extremely powerful to rip a hole in the barrier. Either that, or the barrier was somehow weakened from the inside."

"There's something I haven't mentioned," Grey says. He takes a deep breath.

"I found a watch and a notebook with a vague and ominous warning written in it in the drawer of the nightstand in my room. Soon after I found my door had magically unlocked itself somehow, without anyone appearing to enter or exit the room. Was any of that you?"

Grey jumps, almost dropping the dish. He turns his head to see Sakuya staring at him, arms folded. She has a serious expression on her face.

He quickly rinses the dish and puts it away. "How long was she standing there? I didn't even hear her footsteps," he thinks. Drying his hands, he tries to compose himself. He takes a quick breath before facing Sakuya.

She frowns.

"We both have questions."

Grey nods carefully.

"You start."

[ ] Custom

Loading User Commands:

[X] Make one serving.
[X] Eat in the kitchen.

---

Grey decides to cook a single serving of his breakfast-style lunch. He isn't planning to meet anyone, after all.

Staying in the kitchen, he takes his plate and quickly shovels the food down his throat. It isn't that good, but anything tastes great when one is starving. No need to act polite either, as no one else is in the kitchen.

His hunger satisfied, Grey takes his dishes and cutlery and begins washing. He finds his thoughts drifting as he cleans up.

He thinks about his sudden appearance at the Voile Library. He remembers the encounter with the witch girl Marisa. He reflects on his unnatural knowledge of Gensokyo, its language and its inhabitants. Somehow, it doesn't feel like an accident at all.

He thinks about Patchouli. Although she seems cold and detached, he feels that she is really a kind girl at heart. He remembers how she asked him to stay in the Mansion last night. And he remembers how she saved his life just a little while ago.

He thinks about Koakuma. From the start, she has been helping him. She can't be acting on duty alone, as she seems to show genuine concern. She helps him even without her Mistress' orders. She may very well be the one he can count on the most.

He thinks about Remilia. She employed him as a butler, seemingly on a whim. He remembers his new name, and her solemn words, "A name is power." She definitely seems like she knows much more than she says.

He thinks about Sakuya. From the start, she displays open suspicion. But from earlier, in that single moment, he thinks he saw another side of her. Perhaps she isn't what she seems to be.

He thinks about the letter he found. "THIS PLACE IS CURSED," it read. Then he remembers the attack. Something is definitely wrong with this place, but nothing is clear. Maybe he needs to investigate the Mansion a bit more. He does have some free time right now.

"So how long are you going to scrub that plate?"