Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Once again, Rika found herself within the sea of fragments. How many times had she seen her friends die? More disheartening still, how many times had she been killed herself? Thousands? Ten thousand? Either way, the number was incomprehensible. Hanyuu's presence in this higher plane only confirmed the obvious. She was trapped in another loop.

"Rika..."

The young Furude gripped her hair in frustration. Why was she forced to live through this tragedy over and over? She was so close to finding the culprit's identity, yet she could feel her resolve wavering. Hanyuu had once told her that even if she managed to solve the mystery, the effects of the trauma were likely irreversible. She would go through life consumed by memories, seeing her friends' dismembered corpses in her dreams. She would never know a full night's rest again. However, there was a chance the effects could be mitigated, if only marginally. It would entail reaching her breaking point, but she had to know the option was available. Perhaps it was the only true way out all along.

"I haven't been totally honest with you."

This snapped Rika back to reality, eyes filled with tears as she gazed upon her ancestor. A singular "what" was all she could muster through the sound of strangled sobs.

"My powers have grown stronger with each passing loop. Through the shards, I've managed to piece together a timeline of events following your death. Miyo Takano was your killer."

"Miyo!? But...How, and why!?"

"Her grandfather was a pathologist studying Hinamizawa syndrome. He was researching the parasites hoping to find a cure. Miyo inaccurately assumed you were the queen carrier because of my connection to them. I told you before they were released after the villagers threw me into the volcano, but it was all a coincidence. I had nothing to do with releasing them. They were already living under the surface."

"So Takano thought I was the queen because of my heritage!?"

"Yes. Her real name is Miyoko Tanashi."

"I don't understand! What does her grandfather have to do with the outbreak!?"

"His research was covered up in an attempt to harness the syndrome. Mercenary groups intended to use it for military operations as a weapon of bio-warfare."

"So the original spread was an act of revenge!? I don't believe you!"

"It's true. I'll show you."

Using the power of psychokinesis, Hanyuu pulled the shards together. Arranging them in order, Rika watched them play out. The images shown matched what her relative described to a T.

"It...Can't be...!"

"I'm sorry. This is the true face of Hinamizawa. Corruption runs rank through all aspects of life, especially positions of authority. It's a battleground for the future of humanity."

"Why didn't you tell me sooner!? We could've already broken the cycle!"

"I only recently became aware. The sea of fragments is infinite, just like space in your realm. Besides, even if I'd told you, it wouldn't have made a difference. Your real enemy's far closer to home."

"What are you saying!? That there's someone else behind the scenes!? Who are they!? Tell me!"

"If I do, it would destroy you. Can you handle losing what's left of your innocence?"

"I already have!"

"No, you haven't. Not yet anyway. You held on to the belief your friends would never hurt you - that what they did was beyond their control, but that's not true. People will go to any extreme to get what they want. That's just how humans are. What separates good from evil is what they're willing to sacrifice in the process."

"I'd give everything to save them! You know I would!"

"I know. That's why you have to be ready."

Scattering the fragments, Hanyuu summoned another - one fully intact and shining with brilliance. Society seemed to have changed somewhat, harboring new trends and cultural backdrops. It was still the same world, but something had obviously changed.

"This is Earth twenty years in the future. In this timeline, the syndrome never existed, and the village was renamed Shirakawa. Medical technology has advanced exceptionally quickly as a result of another outbreak called SARS, or severe acute respiratory syndrome. Unlike the parasites, this outbreak was caused by a virus."

"Shirakawa...The holy river..."

"This is the world I want you to explore. I was hoping to save this as a last resort, but In order to face your demons, you must gain further wisdom. That's why I'm here: to guide you along the way."

"So this is what it looks like. It's funny how we look so similar, but I can tell there's been progress."

"You'll have to spend at least one more lifetime here, gaining skills and abilities which will aid you on your journey. When the time is right, you'll return here, and I'll send you back to your original timeline."

"One more lifetime? You mean another seventy years!?"

"Give or take. It depends on your health by the end."

"So you're saying if I develop these techniques, I can save everyone?"

"In time, but you'll have to give it your all. Adjusting to this new era won't be easy, but I'm sure you'll find a way. You haven't given up to now. One more shot couldn't hurt, right?"

"Well...I guess when you put it that way...I suppose it'd at least provide a reprieve..."

"That's the idea. The more scars you're able to heal, the stronger you'll become. It all boils down to psychological conditioning."

"Promise you'll be here when I come back?"

"You have my word. You won't be the only one growing on this journey. I too have foes I must contend with, some more formidable than even your own."

"Are you sure this will give me enough power? We have to account for contingencies."

"If you heed my advice. What you do in-between is up to you."

"All right. I'll give it a try."

"No matter what happens, don't give up, Rika. You're my family, and you know I'll always be here for you. It's true we can't change the past, but humans have more power over their futures than they realize, even when it comes down to choosing how they die."

"Choosing my death to take back my life. A rather bizarre concept, though I must admit, the idea does sound rather intriguing."

"You've already died countless times. What's one more? Least for once it'll be natural."

"Leave it to you to put a positive spin on something so dire."

"It's our family way after all."

Rika smiled. A hundred years of death and despair, and now finally, she could let go. Hanyuu's plan was already taking effect. Soon, Rika would be the strongest human who ever lived. It'd be something no one could ever take away, not even the gods. With their bond immortalized, Rika reached out her hands, welcoming safety with open arms at last.

"Stay vigilant, omago-san, and remember, I'm always watching over you, even when you can't see me."

Chapter Text

Like so many times before, Rika awoke atop her futon, practicing her posture as usual. Opening her eyes, she immediately noticed Satako's absence. Had it not been for her interaction with Hanyuu, she would've assumed something happened. Calming her nerves, she lifted herself off the floor, stretching to get the blood flowing. Checking the calendar, she saw the date. When Hanyuu said twenty years, she meant down to the day.

"June 17th, 2003. I really am twenty years in the future."

Hanyuu had mentioned the possibility her friends would be older. They were likely in their thirties with families of their own. Rika made a note about her new date of birth - August 21st, 1992. Mentally prepared, she headed downstairs to the bottom story of Furude Manor.

---

Turning the corner, Bernkastel stopped. Though she and Rika shared the same body, the latter was nothing more than a memory - a faint apparition in the back of the witch's head. It took a lot to faze her these days, but the sight of her parents knocked the breath from her lungs, as though she were an unstoppable force coming into contact with an immovable object.

"Mother...Father..."

"Good morning, Rika," the child's mother greeted, "Are you feeling okay? You look pale."

Mr. Furude continued reading the morning paper. The time jump meant the dam war was behind them, if it had even happened at all. In a fair, but firm tone, he instructed his daughter to answer the matriarch. In that moment, something clicked, and the two personalities merged.

"Rika," Mrs. Furude said curiously, noticing tears in her daughter's eyes, "What's the matter, sweetheart? Is something wrong?"

Rika fell to the floor, bowing in contrition for the indifference she'd shown. Emotions took over, causing her to cry out in grief.

"Mother, I'm so sorry! Please forgive me! I'm so sorry!"

Mr. Furude couldn't ignore the scene. He and his wife were shocked. Rika had cried before, but this was different. She was weeping: trembling. These weren't normal behaviors, especially for her. Something had damaged her beyond repair. Mrs. Furude rushed to her side, knowing her sweet little girl hadn't done anything wrong. She'd been in bed all night, so how could she? Rika's outburst refused to cease. She couldn't control herself anymore. A century of pain was far too much for anyone to bear, much less one so innocent. Her mother cradled her, holding her tightly. There was no telling how long this episode would last.

Chapter Text

Mrs. Furude held Rika close to her chest, stroking her hair to calm the child's nerves. Rika's expression was blank, offering hypothetical onlookers a glimpse into her fractured spirit. She wanted to tell them everything - everything about Hinamizawa, Hanyuu, and the loops, but she couldn't. Not yet. She had to reign in her emotions, otherwise they would cloud her judgement. She had a job to do, and she wouldn't rest until it was finished.

"I had a nightmare," she fibbed, "I dreamt you died, and it was all my fault."

"It's okay, sweetheart. We're right here. Everything's okay. See?"

Rika closed her eyes, leaning deeper into her mother's chest. She wanted to say more, but couldn't muster strength to speak, let alone move.

"Mmm..."

Her father stared in shock, a feeling of guilt churning in his gut. He'd always been strict with her, insisting she focus on her education and duties as the next shrine maiden. He began to wonder if he'd induced a state of psychosis by being too harsh. He wanted her to be responsible, not a machine. Maybe it was a wake-up call to ease up; one that was long overdue.

"Well...," he began, "I suppose you had a rough night. Rougher than usual anyway. You're already late, so...Why don't you stay home today? I'll call the school and tell them you were feeling under the weather."

"Thank you, papa..."

"Hmph! You sound like you've been practicing for centuries. Even sick you're still polite. I'll give you credit for that. You could stamp it on a résumé."

Rika managed a slight chuckle. The more Mr. Furude looked, the more broken she seemed. Her soul was shattered in ways beyond description. Even he couldn't destroy someone this badly.

"Can you eat?"

Rika nodded. Come to think of it, it'd been a while since she'd eaten. Time worked differently in the fragmented realm. There was no telling how long she'd been gone. Taking a seat between her progenitors, her mother prepared a plate. She dug in with surprising gusto. Hanyuu's voice resurfaced, though her stomach took priority. She would work out the details later.

"You eat like a super saiyan. I'm impressed."

---

Rika's parents tucked her in. Mrs. Furude kissed her forehead, stroking her locks once more. Mr. Furude stood silently. For the first time in her life, Rika saw sadness in his eyes. By then, he was consumed with remorse, blaming himself for her weakened state. As an instructor, he was efficient, but as a father, he'd been absent since the day she was born. Had he remained in the room for much longer, she suspected he would've broken down as well.

"I love you, sweetie. We'll be downstairs if you need anything. Try to get some sleep, okay? You need it."

"Okay, mama."

Mr. Furude clenched his jaw, barely able to hold himself back. Exiting with his wife, Rika spoke, rebuking Hanyuu for her heartlessness.

"That's just cruel, O bāchan. One cycle and they're gone? What a twisted sense of humor."

"Don't assume malice until proven otherwise. The world's full of secrets. You just so happen to be one of them."

"Whatever. I'm tired. I'm going to sleep."

"Don't forget, two beings inhabit your body now. They're going to have to work together if we hope to succeed."

"Yeah, yeah. Save it for later. Good night, Oyashiro-sama."

"You really are a brat, you know that?"

"And just whose fault is that? Besides, the same applies to you, ya know. Maybe it runs in the family."

"Guess I can't argue there."

Chapter Text

Rika slept through Friday, taking some time alone to recover. She didn't go to school on Saturday either, opting to pry more information out of Hanyuu. The goddess had already begun formulating a training regimen based on the laws of her successor's universe. A core element of her growth would entail immense physical and emotional conditioning. Another drew heavy inspiration from an unlikely source.

"The United States."

"America? How come?"

"One country in North America to be precise. People get annoyed about the generalization."

"We're not here to argue semantics. Just get on with it already."

"So rude. For the time being, America is considered the forerunner in cultural influence and economic power. This will change somewhat later on down the line, but the spirit's a hard thing to kill. Traces of its drive will still be found in small pockets across the globe. In the '80s, their influence was limited due to the technology of the day, but over the last twenty years, they've evolved rapidly. The same applies to Japan. I'm sure you've noticed already your TV looks different. The system attached to it is called a super famicom."

"Famicom?"

"It's shorthand for family computer. You've seen computers before at the clinic. They're machines designed to process data. The types of data they process depend on their intended use. Home computers are primarily used for work and entertainment. For scientific fields, they're used to store research. They're more convenient than traditional pen and paper."

"I see..."

"Famicoms use similar technnology to arcade cabinets. In layman's terms, they're video game devices which make use of various genres and styles. Unlike arcades which run on coins, famicoms use cartridges. The super famicom is an updated version with more processing power. There are even more powerful systems out, but it's basic enough to get you started."

"I take it you want me to try it out? You know I was never big into arcades, considering how limited my resources were."

"Yes, but those restrictions have been loosened. You have more wiggle room to move around now, and on top of that, video games are proven to have significant therapeutic effects. It's one of several additions to your training I've integrated with my newly-acquired insight."

"Therapy!? You've got to be joking!"

"You would think so, but I'm not. They've been used by former soldiers to treat post-traumatic stress."

"So there's research to back up your claim. Interesting. I'm actually curious now."

"Why don't you see for yourself? There's a small collection on the right-hand shelf."

Rika followed her grandmother's directions, skimming over the labels. Many reminded her of dungeons and dragons. Others projected futuristic, science fiction imagery. One in particular stood out, spelling Rock Man 7 in large, bold lettering.

"Excellent choice. It's tough, but mastering it will reflect your coordination. Give it a go and tell me what you think."

Rika sighed.

"Very well. I'll humor you this time."

She popped the cartridge in, switching on the power. The opening cutscene was surprisingly immersive and caught her up to speed. Once the game started, she quickly picked up on the controls. They were tailor-made to suit a platforming-style adventure game.

"The Rock Man series is known as Mega Man in the US," Hanyuu explained, "The score is heavily influenced by western rock music. There's a sequel series called Mega Man X, with the later installments taking increasing amounts of inspiration from American screenwriting. The music in those games borders on metal."

"You're a sly one," Bernkastel slipped through, "I should've figured you'd appeal to my sensibilities. I'll have to watch out for you in the future."

"You should start thinking about your next move. It's not just American culture you'll have to brush up on. European history has shaped and continues to shape the world at large. You'll have to figure out how to turn that to your advantage."

"Don't worry. I'll think of something."

"I hope so. This may be our last chance."

Chapter Text

That Sunday, Rika requested to go shopping with her father. When pressed as to why, she simply stated she'd heard about some fun new toys at school and wanted to check them out. This seemed to satisfy her parents' curiosity, at least for the time being. Getting dressed in a t-shirt and shorts, the pair headed to the bus stop. Their purchases would have to be made in Okinomiya, as Shirakawa was too small to meaningfully import western goods. At least the former was large enough to accommodate more modern conveniences. Rika was intimately familiar with the region's summer climate, but still, something felt different. The air felt more tolerable, and it was easier to breathe.

"Who are you really?" the elder Furude asked suddenly, causing both Rika and Hanyuu to jump in surprise.

"What do you mean, papa?"

"I could tell something wasn't right. Up until two days ago, my daughter never had a violent dream in her life, especially the one you described. She never would've broken down unless there was a good reason. I checked the shrine and everything was fine. If you're worried about keeping it a secret, don't worry. I won't tell."

Rika weighed her options. He was already onto her. There was no point in hiding the truth anymore. Dropping the façade, she called upon her true self - the self who had endured a century of irreparable emotional distress.

"I need your solemn oath. Do you swear to keep this between you and I?"

Mr. Furude nodded, paying close attention to the words which came from the entity's mouth.

"I am your daughter, Rika Furude, but in the spirit world, I go by another name. Our great grandmother Hanyuu refers to me in private as Frederica Bernkastel. I developed the identity over a hundred years to hide my true self."

The elder's eyes shot open. That name...Hanyuu...

"Hanyuu!? You know her!?"

"Please, control yourself."

"Oh. Right. My apologies."

"I come from a different timeline perpetually trapped in 1983. The village there was named Hinamizawa. After the villagers threw Hanyuu into the volcano, they unknowingly released a parasitic organism. Even now, I have no idea what it's called."

"A parasite you say? Hmm..."

"Few people knew about it, but under certain conditions, it drove the population insane. As a result, the village was wiped off the map."

"And you've been reliving this outbreak for over a century? Now I understand why you're acting this way. I'm sorry."

"Don't worry about it, though I suppose since I've told you this much, I may as well reveal why I'm here. Hanyuu and I may have found a way to break the loop."

"I should've figured. So what's the plan?"

"I was hoping to keep my identity under wraps until the next cycle, though your perception's thrown a wrench in that. I suppose it all comes down to whether you'll help us. As far as I'm concerned, you owe me that much."

"I understand. What do you need?"

"Today we're picking up items for therapy. There are malevolent forces at work far beyond mortal comprehension. To face them, I'll have to be prepared. I'll explain the process as needed, but it's going to be a long road. I hope you're ready."

The bus arrived, inviting the duo on. They sat in the back to continue their conversation. They had some time to spare before their destination.

"Hanyuu's losing it. She didn't want me to tell you, but after all this time, I felt like you deserved to know."

"What about your mother? Where does she factor in all this?"

"Our relationship was strained because I knew too much. She never had the chance to nurture me like a normal parent. To be honest, she probably picked up on what was happening, but didn't know how to help. I don't blame her for feeling frustrated. I wanted to live a normal life too, but I suppose that wasn't in the cards."

"What happened to us? Did we die as well?"

"Yes."

"What about now? Will the village be destroyed since you're here?"

"I doubt it. The parasite doesn't exist in this world. It's a different reality entirely."

"Well, that's a relief."

"Hanyuu wants us to live a full life here. It's the only way we can defeat whatever evil is at work. I'll have to undergo extensive training. Perhaps you can be of some help since you know all the ancient traditions."

"I know a little about kenjutsu, but Shirakawa was never known for conflict. Perhaps when you're older, you can travel and practice other styles."

"That's the idea."

"I don't like hiding things from your mother, but it's your story. It's not my place to say."

"I may tell her eventually, but for now, I want her to be happy too. After this cycle is over, I may never see you again, so...Will you accept me as your daughter, just one last time?"

"Would I be much of a man otherwise?"

"Father..."

Rika leaned into her father's side, fearful she'd start crying again.

"I love you for you, no matter what you've seen. Never forget, you're a Furude. We've protected this village for centuries, and will continue to do so until our lineage ceases."

"Yes...Protecting Shirakawa...Together..."

---

The first shop the pair entered was a record store in the middle of town. Hanyuu continued to scold Rika for her rash behavior, which the younger Furude ignored. They looked around for a while, coming across heavy releases which had gained notoriety in Japan. The one that stood out most came from a band called State Craft, and it was titled "To Celebrate the Forlorn Seasons". Upon looking it over, Rika decided to purchase the album. When asked what they were looking for, Mr. Furude explained the situation, making up a cover story to conceal her true identity.

"For reasons beyond my understanding, my daughter's taken an interest in rock music from the west. Is there anything you'd recommend for someone new to the style?"

"Let me see," the cashier stated, checking the computer for recommendations, "Ah, yes! Here we go! There's a new album by an American band called Linkin Park. They've gotten really popular with young folks lately."

"What about the lyrics? Is it appropriate for children?"

Rika grimaced, but went along with it. He had an image to maintain as well.

"They're kind of dark, but it's nothing most teenagers wouldn't hear sooner or later. How old is she?"

"Eleven come August."

"It should be fine to test the waters. I can order a copy if you'd like."

"Very well. That'll be fine."

"That'll be six thousand yen. Is that everything?"

"Yes. Thank you very much."

"Pleasant travels!"

"Likewise."

The duo exited, leaving the man to reflect on their interaction. While he found their composure unusual, there didn't appear to be cause for alarm.

"What an odd couple. Oh, well. They seem nice enough. It's none of my business."

Chapter Text

The pair's next stop was a nearby game store, picking up a PlayStation, memory cards, a copy of Rock Man X6, and two Final Fantasies. Gradually, Hanyuu calmed down, realizing she wasn't getting anywhere. She suspected Rika had a few choice words of her own. Finally, they finished their journey by ordering custom clothes. The young Furude figured if she was planning on fighting, she may as well look the part.

"You know, it's funny," Mr. Furude spoke, "Even though you're not the same Rika, you share a lot in common."

"How so?"

"She wanted to be part of the aristocracy. In private, she used to practice the mannerisms of high society. She worked hard, but still made time for leisure. The difference lies in your composure. You're cold and detached, as would probably be expected from someone suffering severe post-traumatic stress. A century of despair is more than anyone can handle, let alone a little girl."

"I can't go back to who I was. I wish I could, but any attempt to do so would be a thinly-veiled deceit. I could relinquish control, but doing so would mean giving up on my mission. I have no right to steal your happiness too. Ultimately, that decision is yours to make, not mine."

"As long as you don't cause any trouble, I see no reason to send you away. It seems you lead a more interesting life than she would've on her own. I'm curious to know more about this enemy you're facing. Who are they?"

"I don't know, but they're at least as old as Hanyuu, if not older. All I know is, they exist to sow chaos and disorder. While not responsible for my predicament, they're a threat to those I care for. Such a sin, I cannot forgive."

"So you do have the capacity to be noble. Very well, then. We'll begin our training tomorrow."

"Thank you."

---

Back home, Rika greeted her mother happily, showing off her new system among their other purchases. While not exactly happy with the amount they ended up spending, she decided to let it go, cutting her daughter a break since she never really asked for much. When all was said and done, Bernkastel retreated to her chamber, enjoying her last day of freedom before the final struggle beckoned.

"You jeopardized the mission," Hanyuu scolded, "What were you thinking back there!?"

"I haven't seen my parents in over a century. I wanted at least one version of them to know the truth. I never stopped believing in them, even when they were unkind. You can feel it too, can't you? They're opening their hearts to me. Just as I intended, they've become our strongest allies."

"Even so, how can you be sure they won't turn on you? Mio wasn't affected by the syndrome, and look how she turned out. If you want to survive, you can't trust anyone. Not even them."

"I thought I was supposed to be the cynical one. She's not a threat here, remember? So long as the enemy stays oblivious to our plan, we're safe. Try not to worry so much."

"This is the only contingency I have up my sleeve. If something goes wrong, we may very well be stuck here forever. Just...Try to be more cautious next time, okay?"

"Yeah, yeah, I got it. Don't ruin this for me. I'm actually having fun for once."

Chapter Text

The next day, Rika changed into her uniform, packing her book bag for school. With how many times she'd lived this scenario over, it was ridiculous she even had to go, but societal expectations wouldn't let her rest.

"I'm so sick of this uniform. If people knew who I was, they'd think I was impersonating myself. Though I guess to be fair, that's pretty much exactly what I'm doing."

"Just try to bear with it a little longer. The military has an extensive list of optional martial arts programs. You'll have plenty of time to brush up then. If you're lucky, you can ask to be stationed in America. They're considered the world's most powerful fighting force for a reason."

"I'm still not sure it's a good idea. You said yourself neither Japan nor America ever owned up to their crimes, and America just started their invasion of Iraq. If something happens during my enlistment, I'd rather not be on the wrong side."

"You only have to serve five years. The odds of major escalations are slim to none. Beyond that, if something does happen, they likely won't call you back."

"I don't even know what branch to enlist in. As you've seen, everyone argues about which one's better. There's a lot you still haven't told me."

"All right. I'll make this easy, then. Army special forces."

"Special forces?"

"In Japan, they're the ones mostly trained for hand-to-hand combat. If you manage to reach the US, the marines are your best bet. They're the most disciplined unit on the face of the earth."

"Special forces and marines. Got it."

"Guess you should hurry. Your mom and dad are waiting."

---

Rika followed the same dirt path to school, noting the new abundance of buildings. She greeted her neighbors, using the pretense of hurry to avoid raising suspicion. She didn't recognize most of them, as the elderly population had died off years before. It didn't matter anymore, though. She would only act cordially in so far as it served her purpose. All she craved now was the strength to stop her suffering.

"Come to think of it," Hanyuu remembered, "you don't know the other kids here. This world's Rika had a handful of friends as well. Their ringleader is an outgoing boy named Ryujin. His family moved here after Keiichi left for college. His immune system is weak, be he's spirited enough to compensate. You had a lot of respect for him from what little I observed."

"And the others? Who are they?"

"Kaikyō Shizukesa and Ishi Jukukō. You'll know 'em when you see 'em. It's hard to miss out on a group like yours."

"Is that a compliment or an insult?"

"I'll leave that part to your imagination."

"I didn't expect any less."

Passing through the halls of her composite-class school, Rika wondered how many times she'd played out this scenario. The difference was, this time, none of her classmates would go crazy, at least so far as she knew. Taking a breath, she gripped the classroom door's handle, ready to flee at a moment's notice should another calamity arise.

We won't be able to talk until school's over," Hanyuu cautioned, "I know the others are all you've ever known, but try to be nice to them. They're good kids."

"I got it. I won't make a scene."

"Try to smile for me too, okay? You have a whole life ahead here. Don't waste it wallowing in sorrow. You have my word; evil will not touch you here."

"We'll see. Let's make it through today before we jump to any conclusions."

"Fair enough. Just try to have a good day in the meantime. I love you."

"I love you, too. We'll talk more later. Let me know if anything comes up."

"I will.

"All right. Here goes nothing."

---

Hearing the door open, the other students turned their heads, noticing Rika's presence. Mulling it over, she realized they'd heard about her "illness" the previous Friday, For the time being, she could talk in her real voice, explaining it away as a lingering symptom. Moving about indifferently helped her breathe a sigh of relief. She could break character for a while without ringing any alarms. From her point of view, that in itself was a promising sign.

"Rika," a young boy's voice exclaimed, "You're all better!"

Veering to her left, Rika saw three children around her age approach at Mach speed. The first was a girl with jet black hair and a simple, cutesy dress. The second was a boy with similar black hair, glasses, and a martial arts uniform. At the center was Ryujin, sporting short brown hair, a black tank top, khaki shorts, and sandals. Examining his face, Rika noticed a Band-Aid above his right eye. Concern immediately arose, but she tried to suppress it. Where she was from, injuries were bad omens. Still, she'd promised not to stir up trouble, and as a lady of the Furude clan, she always stuck true to her word. If hell broke loose, she could at least control herself. Maybe that's what'd kept her going all this time.

"What happened to your eye?"

"Oh, this? It was an accident on the playground. I'm okay. Are you? I tried to visit your house over the weekend, but your folks said you weren't feeling well."

"My voice is on the mend, but other than that I'm okay."

"You still look under the weather. Must've been pretty bad."

"Yeah. It was a long few days. It'll take a while to get over it fully."

"If you need anything, don't hesitate. We'll take you to the nurse."

Something about the boy's statement triggered new emotions. His words felt more genuine. More kind than anything she'd heard in her world. Maybe Hanyuu was telling the truth. Despite his weakened defenses, she didn't take him as the type to succumb so easily. Could he have survived the syndrome? She didn't know, and hopefully, they'd never have to find out.

"Thank you. That means a lot to hear."

"Teacher will be here soon. Wanna play games until then?"

Processing his request, Rika recalled the games she used to play with her friends back home. If nothing insidious was going on behind the scenes, then bringing over some influences wouldn't be so bad, right? Taking a chance, she spoke up, suggesting a few activities of her own.

"Sure. I know a few we can play."

"Awesome! Let's see what you've got!"

"Okay. You asked for it."

Chapter Text

Rika spent the morning looking over her shoulder, checking for signs of danger. Luckily, she found nothing. It was hard to appear invested, doing what she could to blend in. Still, Ryujin and the others managed to help her cut loose. Here, the games felt real; not like arbitrary repetitions. If nothing else, the experience was a breath of fresh air. By then, anything new would've been welcome. She could hardly believe it was happening at all.

"Hey, Ryujin," she spoke up at lunch, remembering how she'd mitigated the syndrome in her world, "Thanks for being my friend."

"Huh," the boy inquired in confusion, "Where'd that come for all of a sudden?"

"A long time ago, I saw some very bad things. You weren't there with me, and neither were you Ishi, or you Kaikyō. I was scared and lonely. It was all I thought about for a long time after."

"What were they," Ishi asked, "What'd you see?"

"Things no one should ever have to. It took me a long time to find you. Let's leave it at that for now."

"If it was really so bad," Ryujin interjected, "why didn't you come find us? We could've at least tried to help."

"There was nothing you could've done. I just wanted to be honest. You're my friends, so you at least deserved to know."

"Still, we could've at least tried."

"I know. It was just hard to think clearly. Fear makes people act differently. If you're afraid of something, it puts you in a state where you don't know what to do. I'm sure you've been through similar situations."

"Yeah. I guess so. Next time you see something scary though, we'll back you up. All you have to do is ask."

"I will. It's a promise."

"You've been acting weird all day," Kaikyō noted, "Are you sure you're feeling okay?"

"I will be soon," Rika assured, "I guess I'm not fully there yet. The bug I caught was pretty nasty."

"You do look kind of pale. Maybe you should go see the nurse."

"It's all right. I think I just need some more sun. I haven't been outside much over the last few days."

Ryujin fell silent. Something about Rika's eyes seemed sad. It was as though he could feel her pain, buried deep under a layer of pretense. He knew she was hiding something, but couldn't bring himself to pry. Her history was buried for a reason, and if he dug it up, there was a good chance he wouldn't like what he found. He let it go, pretending not to notice, and the group finished eating before heading back inside.

---

On the way home, Rika expected Hanyuu to scold her again, but the goddess simply asked why.

"Why are you revealing so much information nonchalantly? I told you before it's dangerous. If this were your timeline, Miyoko would've already killed you by now. If the enemy knows your hand, it will only compel them to act sooner."

"But we're not in my timeline, are we? She has no reason to kill me here. If I want to get stronger, I need all the allies I can get. By telling them now, they won't feel betrayed later. If they're angry with me, it'll only hinder our progress. Sometimes the obvious answer is the one right under our noses. We're finally in a spot where we can go on the offensive. The sooner we act, the better. From this point moving forward, time is of the essence. We need to make the most of it if we want to have any chance of conquering the spirit world."

"Does that mean you're plotting to face the other gods with me!?"

"Finally caught on, did ya? I want to punish them for interfering with our lives. Your intentions might've been good, but as a general rule, gods are untrustworthy. That's why they threw you into that volcano, isn't it? True, they acted rashly, but not without reason. The malevolent actions proceeding Greek and Roman deities painted supernatural forces in a negative light. It's possible you're an exception rather than the rule."

"You raise a fair point. Guess I wasn't expecting you to grow a pair is all."

"For a long time, all I felt was fear. Now it's up to us to end this. Once and for all."

"You really are my granddaughter. Is this what it means to feel pride?"

"Don't get too excited. We still have to train first, and it looks like father's waiting. Something tells me this isn't going to be a cakewalk."

Rika approached her home, Mr. Furude holding two wooden swords in hand. Hearing his daughter's footsteps, he opened his eyes. Despite the intensity of his gaze, she remained undeterred. He could tell she was serious about learning to stand against evil, sensing her resolve below the innocent exterior.

"I told your mother it was part of a dance for the ceremony. That should stave off suspicion for now, but we won't be able to hide it forever. You'll have to tell her at some point."

"I need a little time to figure out the right words. I want her to feel like she got to be a parent. Once I've matured, I'll be able to explain it better."

"Follow me. We'll begin our training in the shrine."

"Aren't you worried? About the artifacts being broken?"

"I've already moved everything. It should be fine if we don't overdo it."

"I'll take your word for it."

"We'll begin with a test. I don't think you're lying, but I have to be sure. If you're as old as you say, you should be able to dodge a direct attack with ease."

"I don't have much combat experience, so try to go easy on me, okay?"

"Very well. I'll adjust my techniques accordingly."

"Thank you, Chichioya."

"Formal as always. Least I know she's in there somewhere."

---

Mr. Furude assumed a traditional kenjutsu stance based on the style's founding principles, which encouraged strong but flexible posture. Rika did the same, mimicking her father's pose, though her underdeveloped musculature made it hard to stand firm. It would be impossible to keep up at her level, but that was the whole point. The stronger she got, the easier it would become.

"This region of Gifu is known for two styles - general kenjutsu and more advanced ninjutsu, with the latter being more precise. It also uses more tools, so for now, we'll stick with the former. Like school, higher levels are attained by practicing the fundamentals. Unskilled opponents can easily block sloppy techniques, but if you know where and when to strike, a simple prod will be enough to incapacitate their nervous system. Pressure points are a good place to start, but there are plenty of other regions you can exploit. The spinal column is strong, but the flesh around it is not. All you have to do is shock your enemy into leaving themselves open, and victory is but guaranteed. For your first task, I'll perform a simple lunge. It's up to you whether you defend or evade. If you manage to avoid being hit, we'll move on to phase two. Sound fair?"

"Yes. Come at me with everything you've got."

"All right. Get ready."

The elder Furude raised his sword, switching blade with edge in a manner reminiscent of the Ko Gasumi philosophy.

"Here I come."

Expecting a forward slide, Rika maintained her defense. She was surprised when the older man disappeared, rematerializing as quickly as he vanished. With a swift thrust, he pushed her back, tearing her robe's shoulder. She was already accustomed to pain, so it didn't do much to faze her, but still. It was unpleasant all the same.

"As I suspected, you were telling the truth. An attack like that would've left her in tears. You, on the other hand..."

"I see. You weren't testing my skills. You were testing my intentions."

"I had to be sure. Now that I know you mean well, I can trust you with this knowledge. Don't disappoint me by using what you learn selfishly."

Rika raised herself off the ground, channeling her inner witch. When her eyes opened again, they were glowing. Not red as they had before, but a luminous shade of indigo, just like the color of her hair.

"Now the real battle begins. I won't fall so easily this time."

Chapter Text

With each blow, Rika began to understand the flow of battle, even landing a few hits of her own. The deeper they got into their session, the more injuries she received. Short of crippling and death, nothing was off the table. She didn't bother wiping the blood away, as it was one of the few things left that made her feel alive. There would be plenty of time to clean herself off soon.

"So this was how they felt chasing after me. It's a good thing for you I'm actually sane."

"Who?"

"Mountain dogs. They were a military group contracted to abduct me for experimentation."

"Experimentation? For the syndrome?"

"Yes. Their sponsor believed I was the queen carrier. She assumed my death would trigger an epidemic. This was later proven inaccurate, but from her point of view, I was the nuclear option should the parasites spread beyond the point of containment."

"Sounds like you know her. Who was she?"

"Miyoko Tanashi. She should be approaching her golden years at this point in history."

"Tanashi? That name sounds familiar..."

"She joined the military and became a high-ranking officer some years back. She disguised herself as a nurse to keep an eye on me."

"But why? Why would she orchestrate such an elaborate ruse?"

"Because her grandfather's research was covered up. She wanted revenge against the government for their role in the dam war. Looking back on it now, I can't say I blame her. I would've probably done the same."

"Dam war? So that's what this was all about. They were planning to sacrifice the village for resources."

"Yes. Those who supported it were shunned and ostracized. No one really stopped to consider the bigger picture. In the end, we all suffered as a result."

"I know it doesn't mean much now, but I'm truly sorry. We should never have brought you into such a precarious situation. No child should ever be forced to see what you have, and my other self was more concerned with duty than protecting my daughter. I have no right to beg your forgiveness, but I hope one day you can find it in your heart to let go. If this is what it takes, I'll spend the rest of my life making it up to you."

"It wasn't your fault. You didn't know anything. Not until it was too late."

"Regardless, now that I know, I won't make that mistake twice. I love you with all my heart - you and your mother. If you never believe in anything else, trust in that. I'll make sure you know before my time on Earth is over."

"I believe you. Now let's call it a night. We need to get cleaned up before mother sees me like this. Won't do us any good if our cover's blown this early."

"Agreed. There's a well we can use to wash up nearby. I'll patch you up when we get home."

---

The elder Furude let his daughter clean up first, turning away for the sake of propriety. He wanted to know more about what the traveler had seen, especially regarding her relationship with Hanyuu.

"I was next in line for the title of shrine maiden. Naturally, since the village was destroyed under our watch, we wanted to make amends and try to set things right. Of course, my presence here means we have yet to succeed, but we're closer now by a considerable margin. Every action we take from this point forward will push us closer to that goal."

"And what about now? What are your plans for the future?"

"Hanyuu's been feeding me information as we go. There are things even she doesn't know, but for now, my main concern is graduating. I'll be joining the military as soon as I finish school."

"I'm assuming these skills will be used to protect Hinamizawa. Come to think of it, you look more like Hanyuu than anyone else in our family. Perhaps you are the true heir to her abilities."

"Maybe. The thought did cross my mind. We've both been around for a considerable length of time, fleeting as it may be in the grand scheme of existence."

"I'm glad I lived to see the person you became. Your experiences up to now will take you far, especially in this world. However, your heart needs time to heal. It's cold and calloused from years of abuse and neglect. Until you open yourself up to the possibility of happiness, you'll never reach your full potential. As your father, it's my responsibility to nurture your latent talents. The rest beyond that is up to you."

"I'll never be the person I was, but I promise I'll try to be better. That's the most I can offer you as things currently stand. Please, don't hold my skepticism against me. This wasn't who I wanted to be."

"It's okay to feel down. Bad things happen in life that we have no control over. What's important is moving forward, even when things are hard."

"My best friend was mistreated and shunned by her elders. How can she move on from that? How can any of us?"

"I wish I could say. That's up to her and you alone. You're more fortunate than most. It took a journey to hell and back for you to figure that out."

"All the same, I won't give up on her. Like you said, no child deserves that. I won't stand back and watch while the innocent suffer needlessly. I'll bring about humanity's salvation - with my own hands if I have to."

"Then perhaps there is hope after all."

---

When the duo returned, Mrs. Furude had dinner ready. Rika thanked her mother, doing her best not to scarf the meal down. Having worked up an appetite, she tried to remain ladylike. It was harder than she expected, having never trained so intensely before. Maybe she was a saiyan after all.

"I've already prepared a bath for you. Would you like to go first, Rika?"

"Not yet, mama," Rika replied, putting up her façade, "I still have a few things to do. Papa can go first."

"All right. Let me know when you're ready."

"I will!"

The girl smiled, acting more like the child her mother remembered - that was until she got upstairs.

"How was practice," the matriarch inquired, "I assume things went well?"

"Yes," her husband assured, "She's very strong-willed. Just the type you'd expect headlining an important festival."

"That's good to hear. I always figured the pressure would be too much for her. I guess you were right, though. She just had to grow into it."

"We'll have to find a substitute when she gets older. Our daughter's expressed an interest in traveling."

"Really? Where?"

"All over. Europe, America, and of course, other regions of Japan."

"My goodness! It seems like she's growing up so quickly!"

"Time waits for no one. I suppose it's only natural to want to see the world. It's the only one most of us ever will."

"Eh? That came out of nowhere. Are you feeling all right, dear?"

"My apologies. I got caught up in my thoughts. Would you like to join me?"

"I suppose I could use a break. Sure. Let's go in."

---

Like back home, Rika completed her homework in record time. The moment she finished, she placed State Craft's album into her new system, beginning the next phase of their training. Using the outside of her window, she performed ten pull-ups, followed by push-ups, crunches, and squats. The entire time, Hanyuu spoke with her to distract from the excess strain. She knew her granddaughter's muscles would be sore come morning, but it was all part of the plan.

"You held your own pretty well out there. I'm impressed."

"I picked up a few moves from Rena. There's a benefit to staving off cleavers every once in a while. You get pretty good at basic self-defense."

"By the end, you'll be disarming guns without much trouble. It's possible you may have to train again in your world, but the techniques will carry over. Plus, you'll be able to sharpen your skills even further."

"Where'd you go today, anyway? I doubt watching me study would've been particularly interesting."

"I've been waiting for you to ask. I was out on recon."

"Recon? Where to?"

"To progress with your training, you'll need to learn as many styles from as many different people as possible, and I believe I've found teachers suited for such a task. One is an American boy from the southern US mainland. The other is a friend of Jukukō's father."

"Interesting. What is it that they know?"

"Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Wing Chun. That's why you saw Ishi wearing that Uniform. He's a practitioner at the dojo."

"It'd be interesting to face an opponent closer to my skill level. Least they won't be trying to kill me for a change."

"There's a ten-hour time gap between Shirakawa and the eastern US. You'll have to call Ian on the weekend when he's free."

"I'll make a note of it. I'm relying on you to help me keep this stuff organized."

"Speaking of, what'd you think of Ryujin? He's pretty cute, isn't he?"

"Don't mock me with silly questions. I have no time for things like romance; especially here. You and I both know it wouldn't last."

"You say that now, but anything can happen. You've never lived in a world like this before. I can only see so far into the future, but one thing I know for sure is, this is the last golden era for mankind. It all goes downhill from here."

"We'll see."

"Yes. You will."

A bead of sweat dripped down Rika's face. Her expression wouldn't show it, but Hanyuu's words filled her with despair. Was this really the last high point anyone would experience? If so, she had to savor it. Finishing her workout, she breathed a sigh of relief. For now, she could rest, looking forward to tomorrow. Outside her responsibilities, she would finally be able to act like a kid. That's all she ever really wanted.

"Damn you, Oyashiro! Why must you always spoil the mood!?"

Chapter Text

The next day, Rika asked her mother to prepare a special meal. The ingredients consisted of fish, rice, vegetables, and fruit, with their purpose being threefold. Her aim was to reduce body fat while improving muscle growth and mental acuity. She could easily explain this as wanting to take care of her general well-being, which in itself wasn't a lie. Other than Hanyuu's interference, she could be honest about everything else. Rika wasn't a liar by nature. She only said what she had to to get by.

"Have a good day at school, sweetie. I love you."

"I love you too, mama!"

Mrs. Furude hugged her daughter, seeing her off on the path to school. By the time Rika was out of view, her father had joined his wife on the stairway.

"She seems happier than before. I was worried after her meltdown, but everything's back to normal."

"She's found her purpose, and quite young as well. It's not every day you find someone so strong. She gave me a run for my money last night."

"Something's changed between you. I don't know what, but so long as she's happy, it doesn't matter. I can't explain why, but I'm proud. My gut tells me she'll go on to do great things."

"I know what you mean. I have the same feeling. She may be one of the strongest people who ever lived, in this world or the next..."

---

On the way, Hanyuu had Rika write down a schedule, going over their training regimen in painstaking detail. The latter would have to cut out all processed sugars and fats, pushing herself four days a week to complete their checklist. Her routine entailed every possible way to increase durability and stamina. Combat drills, calisthenics, survival techniques, and cardio would all work in tandem with her diet to forge the pinnacle of human athleticism. Once her body physically aged, the pair could add weights to increase explosive power. It was the only way to conquer mortality and beyond.

"It won't be easy," Hanyuu acknowledged, "but humans are resilient. You can take more punishment than you think, as if it wasn't already obvious."

"I didn't think it would be."

"There's tons of stuff to keep you occupied in the meantime. Games, books, movies, TV, music - everything you could possibly imagine. I'll make suggestions as I find them. With your tastes, you'd get along well with Ian's brother, Kyle. He's like you in a lot of ways."

"I doubt I'll get close enough to meet him. Ian doesn't know me. If I tried to make friends with him out of the blue, it would only cause problems. I'll ask him what I need to know. Nothing more, nothing less."

"Fair enough. I can see the school, so I'll leave it to you for now. Don't forget to ask Ishi about the dojo."

"Got it."

Rika headed inside, putting up her cheerful front. Her role in this world was already set in stone. She wouldn't make many friends, but the ones she did would be invaluable to her growth. All she cared about now was making her dream come true. She would kill the gods, even if it meant sacrificing herself in the process.

---

Later on in the day, Rika showed Ishi her plans, asking him for advice and inquiring regarding the principles behind wing chun. None of them thought it surprising given how popular martial arts had become, though they were curious as to why.

"It's for the doburoku festival. If I train, I'll be less likely to lose my balance."

"Makes sense," Ryujin acknowledged, "You're next in line for the title of shrine maiden, right? That's gotta be stressful."

"It's not so bad. I've been studying for a while. I just want to be sure I don't mess it up."

"I gotcha. I'm sure you'll do great!"

"Dad started teaching me Kenjutsu yesterday. Once I've mastered it, we're moving on to Ninjutsu. I was hoping Ishi could help since he's learning wing chun at the dojo."

"Your training plan's solid," Ishi interjected, "All I'd tweak is your diet. You'll be burning fat fast, but if you don't increase your intake to match, you'll end up malnourished. I'd add in some green tea and an extra meal daily. After that you should be good to go."

"Didn't Bruce Lee eat less? Won't I get too big?"

"Bruce Lee was fast, but most of his opponents weren't much bigger than he was. If he got caught, he'd have a tough time escaping a hold. Your approach is more balanced and rooted further in biological theory. With time, you could be stronger than he was, but you're about twenty years from that milestone. Don't let your ego get the better of you.'

"I understand. After school, will you take me to the dojo? I'm hoping to get started right away."

"Sure thing! It's not very often we get new students. Sensei Shīpiān will be thrilled! He's actually from China, you know!"

"Excellent! No better place to learn than the source!"

"That's true. We'll all go together! Maybe you guys can join in, too!"

"Martial arts aren't really my thing," Kaikyō declined, "I've got enough on my plate with soccer and swimming practice. Maybe Rika could use it for cardio, though. It's one of the better forms of exercise from what I learned in P.E."

"Good idea! It's better to incorporate as many styles as possible, that way you're ready for anything!"

"I'll walk there with you though! I just need to get home before it's too late."

"Sure," Ryujin concurred, "I'm game. Let's do it!"

"All right," Ishi concluded, "We'll meet out front when class is over. See you guys then!"

"Right!" the others agreed in unison.

---

Thanks to daylight savings, it was still light when the group left. On the way, Ishi further explained wing chun's mechanics, and more broadly, martial arts in general.

"You said you're training with your dad too, right? Then you're probably aware martial arts makes heavy use of physics - particularly geometry and trigonometry. By guiding the opponent's movements, you gain the upper hand. The reason there are so many styles is because of how many ways there are to do that. In the case of wing chun, you attack and defend simultaneously, moving around their strikes like a wave. This was the philosophy Bruce Lee implemented while developing jeet kune do. In a way, you could say it's the bridge between tai chi and jeet kune do. The former was developed over a thousand years ago during the T'ang dynasty's rule, with wing chun coming about many years after."

"Attacking and defending at the same time," Kaikyō inquired, "How does it work?"

"By using the center line principle. The center line is where organisms can be divided in half. For example, if we cut one of us into even vertical parts, the area that was cut would be the center line. It sounds complicated, but it's easy to figure out once you see it used in practice."

"So it's like how the spine contorts with the body! I get it!"

"Exactly! The direction of your limbs changes to form around theirs, meaning you can defend with one arm and attack with the other. The tricky part's predicting what angle they'll attack from. It's safer to keep your distance until you can close in on an opening. Of course, the best way to avoid being injured is to not fight at all, but sometimes that isn't an option."

"This one's sharp," Rika thought to herself, "I'll have to keep an eye on him as well."

Soon after, Rika met the dojo's founder, Zuòjiā Shīpiān. His face appeared stern, yet Rika sensed warmth. His age did not elude him, and he wanted to leave this world on good terms. Maybe people had more in common than the time traveler thought.

"I see potential in you, child. You're not an ordinary girl, are you?"

Sweating, Rika responded nervously. None of her friends knew what to make of the bizarre interaction, but she and Zuòjiā did. She was hiding her true self for a reason, and he respected that. It mirrored what Reina told Keiichi in Hinamizawa. Everyone had secrets. The difference here was, Rika's were kept to heal.

"Lots of parents tell their kids they're special, don't they?"

"Indeed. You're quite intelligent for someone your age. You're the Furudes' daughter, correct?"

"Yes. You know mama and papa?"

"Not exactly, but I've seen them in town on occasion. You're usually at school while they're out running errands."

"Ishi told me you're a pretty good teacher. I only recently started studying martial arts, so I'm rolling the dice up to chance here. I have no idea what to expect going in."

"Somehow I suspect that's not entirely true, but I'll assume you're acting in good faith. Rest assured, you're in good hands. Ishi's one of my top students despite being relatively new to the style himself."

"I'll need a few days off each week to recuperate. Would that be acceptable for you?"

"Of course. Martial arts is but one of many avenues used to expand people's horizons. How you live is what makes you truly strong. It's how I know I am not."

"You're stronger than you think. Take it from someone who knows."

Zuòjiā chuckled.

"Haha! If you say so, then perhaps it is true! You're quite the chipper one, aren't you?"

"If that's what you wanna call it."

"You've amused me for the day. Just by looking I have a pretty good idea what your measurements are, so ground yourself and come back Monday. Your uniform should be ready by then."

"Thank you, sensei. I'll study hard to be strong like you and Ishi."

"I trust you will. Give your parents my best wishes."

"I will."

After their meeting, Rika invited the others back to her place. She told them the training between her and her father had to be kept secret, but they would see her when it was over.

"Papa bought me a few things from the next town over. There are still a few more coming from America. You're welcome to play in my room while we're practicing."

"America," Ryujin asked, "What'd you guys get from there?"

"Well, it's kind of embarrassing, but I recently got into rock music through my grandma. She's big into stuff over there. I didn't think I'd like it at first, but it's actually really good!"

The Furude's friends said nothing, stunned into silence by her grandmother's existence. Their western influences were just the cherry on top.

"I know it's a lot to process, but make yourselves at home. We'll make dinner in a bit. I'll ask papa if you guys can stay the night."

"I don't know what that illness did to you," Ishi spoke up, "but I like it! You've been a lot more relaxed since you came back. It's nice to see you cut loose every once in a while. I was starting to think you'd be timid and shy forever!"

"I thought I was going to die," Rika admitted, "I realized there were more important things in life than studying. Sometimes it's less about what you know and more about who. I knew a lot of people who helped me out when I felt like giving up. That's how I realized what it meant to live."

"What are you," Ryujin interjected, "You can't be Rika! She never talked like this before!"

"You're being rude," Kaikyō scolded, "but he's right. Something's been off about you since you came back to school. Did something happen to your head?"

"Kind of. It's a long story, but I'll tell you later. Papa's been helping me fix it a little bit at a time. I don't know how long it'll take, but I'll be back to normal eventually, at least until I get sick again."

"Does it have something to do with the scary stuff you saw," Ishi continued, "Did it do something to your brain?"

Rika nodded.

"Yeah. I'm sorry for dragging you into my problems, but I needed to know I could trust you. Now I do. Do you trust me, too?"

"I want to, but you've been vague about it since you brought it up. Will you tell us more when you get back?"

"If it makes you feel better. Just promise me you won't tell mom. We're keeping it a secret until I'm ready to tell her myself."

"I guess that's fine. I just want to know what's going on. Not knowing makes me nervous."

"I understand. Don't worry. So long as we're around, you're safe. You have my word."

"That, I believe."

Rika smiled, leaving her friends to greet the matriarch on their own.

"Sick or not, she's acting like a weirdo," Ryujin cut in again, "I'll never understand girls."

"I don't either," Kaikyō agreed, "and I am one. What's that tell you?"

"Well, that's one thing we can agree on," Ishi concluded, "Rika Furude's a weirdo, and I think that's pretty cool. Weird people are usually the nicest."

"Mm," Kaikyō muttered, "She's always been sweet to us. In that regard, she's still the same. Maybe what she saw changed her in ways we couldn't see. Not until now, anyway."

"Yeah. I think you're right. She's a grown-up now. I don't know how or why, but she is. Ryujin's probably just mad he's not the big cheese anymore!"

"Oh, yeah," Ryujin challenged, "How 'bout I turn your face into Swiss, four-eyes?"

"You and what army?"

Ryujin growled, remembering Ishi's skill set. Mrs. Furude opened the door, greeting the trio warmly. Once they were inside, all hostilities were forgiven, allowing Rika to continue her training in peace.