Grass Story

After the playful confrontation between Kusa and Letty Whiterock, the atmosphere lightened considerably. Kusa, true to her nature, extended a gesture of goodwill by offering Letty a basket of fruits. Letty, her icy demeanor thawing just a bit, accepted the offering with a begrudging nod.

As the trio began to wind down from their mock battle, Aya voiced her thoughts, a hint of frustration evident in her tone. "I mean, can you please act like you are struggling with the attacks?" Aya's request was accompanied by a touch of exasperation, as her attempts to capture the perfect shot had been thwarted by the unexpected intervention of the roots.

Kusa, displaying a surprising level of agreement, chimed in to support Aya's plea. "I agree with your request, so don't argue with what I do, or else I will make you do it all." Her words held a hint of mischief, indicating that she was fully prepared to turn the tables if Aya continued to press her point.

Aya's response was one of reluctant compliance, her resolve weakening as she recognized Kusa's determination. "Fine..." she conceded, a mix of resignation and resignation in her voice. It was a rare moment of acquiescence, a testament to the unspoken bond that existed between the trio.

--

Amid their playful escapades, the trio's next target emerged: Alice Margatroid, the enigmatic puppeteer of Gensokyo. Kusa's mischievous nature took the lead as she initiated a curious request.

"Attack me while I stay here in this circle," Kusa proposed, her words dripping with intrigue.

Alice's violet eyes narrowed in suspicion, her doll-like features betraying a hint of confusion. "What are you playing at?" she inquired, her tone cautious.

Unfazed by Alice's skepticism, Kusa revealed the purpose behind her peculiar request. "It's for a project of Aya," she explained, her words carrying a note of earnestness.

Accepting Kusa's explanation, Alice nodded in understanding. "I see... then let's do it," she agreed, a playful glint in her eyes.

As the "battle" commenced, Alice launched a flurry of attacks at Kusa, who remained nonchalant in the face of the incoming barrage. While Alice exhibited aggression and determination, Kusa took on a more carefree approach, using the opportunity to doodle idly on the ground.

Meanwhile, Aya was in a flurry of activity, expertly positioning herself to capture the dynamic scene unfolding before her lens. Her focus was unwavering, as she sought to capture the essence of the confrontation in a single, fleeting moment.

The collaboration between the three yielded a striking juxtaposition—the relentless attacks of Alice, the laid-back indifference of Kusa, and Aya's dedicated pursuit of the perfect shot. It was a true reflection of the diverse personalities that inhabited Gensokyo.

Once the "battle" had run its course, Kusa presented Alice with a basket of fruits and a selection of books, a token of gratitude for her participation.

--

In their pursuit of capturing unique moments, Kusa, Aya, and their ever-growing group of willing participants found themselves face-to-face with Keine Kamishirasawa, the diligent and responsible teacher of the Human Village.

Kusa's enthusiasm remained undaunted as she initiated her unusual request. "Keine! Can you shoot with your bullets?" she exclaimed, her tone carrying a sense of eagerness.

Keine's response was laden with a mixture of bemusement and mild exasperation. "And here I thought you aren't going to be weirder..." she muttered under her breath, her eyes regarding Kusa with a quizzical expression. "What for?" she inquired, seeking clarity on the unusual proposal.

Kusa's reply was quick and to the point, "Aya's request." It seemed the photographer Tengu had managed to rope Kusa into her project, which had now extended its reach to even the usually composed and serious Keine.

Keine's sigh was accompanied by a subtle roll of her eyes, a gesture that spoke volumes of her willingness to comply despite her reservations. "Fine..." she relented, her tone tinged with a hint of resignation.

With Keine's agreement in hand, Kusa's determination appeared to pay off once more. This time, Keine was the one to unleash her barrage of bullets, her precision, and control evident in the way the projectiles were aimed and coordinated.

Aya, as always, was in her element, capturing the scene with unwavering focus. Her lens caught every movement, every flash of magic, and every fleeting expression, immortalizing the interaction between Kusa and Keine.

Once the "shootout" had concluded, Kusa extended her gratitude to Keine in the form of school supplies and a basket of fruits.

--

The whimsical journey continued, with Kusa and Aya venturing further into the enigmatic world of Gensokyo. Their latest encounter led them to the tranquil and verdant presence of Reisen Inaba, the moon rabbit who resided within the secluded Eientei.

"Rabbit!" Kusa exclaimed playfully upon spotting Reisen, her tone carrying an air of excitement.

Reisen, recognizing Kusa's distinct voice, turned to address the source of the exclamation. "Kusa? What are you doing here?" she inquired, her curiosity evident.

Kusa's response was a simple and enigmatic challenge. "Guess!" she retorted, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Reisen's brow furrowed slightly as she contemplated the situation. "Fine," she relented, sensing that unraveling Kusa's intentions might prove more entertaining than ignoring her antics. "But I don't want to give away my secret spell. Is that fine?" she stipulated, a note of caution in her tone.

Aya, ever eager to capture the essence of the moment, responded with enthusiasm. "Yes!" she chimed in, ready to embrace the challenge.

Kusa rewarded Reisen's cooperation with a thoughtful gift, presenting her with a combination of fruits and herbs—a gesture that conveyed appreciation and camaraderie in Gensokyo's unique language of interaction.

As their quest for unique moments continued, Kusa's approach remained consistent. Tewi, the crafty and mischievous rabbit who called Eientei home, was the next to partake in Kusa and Aya's project. Just like with Reisen, Kusa's charismatic request was met with both intrigue and compliance. In return for her participation, Tewi received a doll and a basket of fruits, a playful exchange that mirrored the light-hearted nature of their gathering.

The trail of their escapades led them to the enigmatic Eirin Yagokoro, the skilled pharmacist and sage who resided alongside Reisen within Eientei's walls. Eirin's initial skepticism was swiftly tempered by Aya's plea to capture the unique bullets she was known to wield. Recognizing the sincere intent behind the request, Eirin eventually conceded, agreeing to unleash her formidable skills for the sake of Aya's photographic endeavor.

"To be honest, I'm not close with Kaguya," Kusa admitted, her voice tinged with a touch of candid honesty. It was clear that Kusa was navigating a complex landscape of emotions, one where friendships and alliances were forged through unique circumstances.

Aya, her curiosity piqued, offered a suggestion. "Then let's not include her…" Aya's words carried a sense of practicality as if navigating around a delicate situation.

However, Kusa seemed to have a more direct approach in mind. With a casual yet purposeful motion, she opened the door to Kaguya's room and ushered Aya inside before swiftly closing the door behind her. The action left Kaguya momentarily surprised by the abruptness of the encounter.

Meanwhile, Kusa turned her attention to the visibly exhausted Aya, who had been swept into the room. Sliding a basket of ripe and succulent fruits towards her, Kusa's demeanor was a blend of playfulness and consideration.

As the moments passed, Kaguya's gaze settled upon the scene before her—a seemingly whimsical interaction unfolding amid her ornate chambers. A sense of curiosity lingered in her eyes, a reflection of the mystery that often surrounded Gensokyo's inhabitants.

Amidst this tableau, Kaguya's voice cut through the air, a question laden with a mix of introspection and uncertainty. "Do you not hate me?" she inquired, her tone carrying a hint of vulnerability.

"I don't," Kusa's words resonated, a simple yet profound declaration that spoke volumes about her perspective. Her stance was one of understanding and empathy, a testament to her unique ability to see beyond the surface and grasp the intricacies of individual experiences.

Kusa continued, her tone holding a thread of practicality. "I just hope you and Mokou will talk with each other and settle this farce." The word "farce" seemed to encapsulate the futility of their prolonged conflict, a reminder that the animosity between Kaguya and Mokou had persisted for far too long.

Kusa's words also held a pragmatic edge, acknowledging the undeniable truth that Mokou was, in fact, a formidable ally—an ally who could provide unparalleled strength and protection in times of peril. It was a point that underscored the potential benefits of resolving their differences, a point that resonated even amid their complex history.

--

The familiar landscape of Medicine's dwelling greeted Kusa and Aya as they stood before the patch of vibrant flowers that served as the entrance to her abode. Aya's inquisitive nature led her to voice the question that had likely been on her mind since their arrival.

"Isn't this Medicine's home?" Her voice held a hint of curiosity, a reflection of her natural penchant for uncovering the mysteries of Gensokyo.

Kusa nodded in affirmation, her gaze fixed on the swaying flowers that concealed the entrance. "Yes..." Her response was measured, carrying with it a sense of familiarity that hinted at her interactions with the enigmatic being who resided within.

The silence that followed was brief, for the patch of flowers soon parted, revealing the petite figure of Medicine herself. Her appearance was accompanied by a sense of casual curiosity, her crimson eyes resting upon Kusa and Aya inquiringly.

"Kusa and Aya? What are you guys doing here?" Her voice carried a tone of mild surprise, suggesting that their unexpected visit had piqued her interest.

Kusa offered a simple explanation, her words are casual yet indicative of the purpose behind their presence. "Just some request." Her response was succinct, leaving a touch of intrigue as to the nature of their undertaking.

As Aya completed her task of photographing the bullets, Kusa extended a gesture of gratitude to Medicine. She presented a collection of offerings—a blend of poisonous plants, herbs, and fruits—a gesture that encapsulated both appreciation and camaraderie.

--

As the path led them toward the imposing Scarlet Devil Mansion, Aya's curiosity found voice once again, her tone tinged with anticipation. "Isn't this the way to the Scarlet Devil Mansion?" Her words held a hint of excitement as if the prospect of their upcoming venture promised a dose of amusement.

Kusa's response was laced with a mischievous undertone, a playful glint in her eyes as she acknowledged Aya's observation. "Yes... that's why it's going to be more fun after this." Her words carried an air of mystery, hinting at the intriguing encounters that lay ahead.

As they approached the familiar grounds of the mansion, their attention was drawn to a slumbering figure—the gatekeeper, Meiling Hong. Kusa's mischievous streak came to the fore as she tossed a fruit in Meiling's direction, a gesture that was deftly caught by the vigilant guardian. Meiling's voice held a blend of surprise and mild annoyance as she addressed Kusa. "Kusa? Don't surprise me like that..." Her words were accompanied by a faint sigh, a testament to the familiarity of such interactions.

Kusa's response was unapologetic, her playful demeanor apparent as she engaged in banter with Meiling. "Isn't that fine? Despite sleeping, you can sense something coming towards you." Her words were punctuated by a sense of amusement as if she found joy in testing Meiling's awareness.

Meiling's retort was tinged with a touch of exasperation, her words revealing a recurrent pattern in their interactions. "Meiling: Cause you always throw something towards me every time you visit here!" Her voice carried a note of mock annoyance, suggesting that such antics were a hallmark of Kusa's visits.

The exchange between the two continued, alternating between light-hearted banter and playful challenges. As Meiling demonstrated her martial prowess, Kusa's taunts prompted her to unleash a barrage of bullets and ki. Aya's amazement was palpable, her eyes widening in disbelief as Kusa effortlessly evaded Meiling's attacks, appearing to flicker and teleport at will.

--

Triumphant words spilled from Kusa's lips as she reveled in her victory. "I won again! Without lifting a finger," her tone carried a smug satisfaction, a clear declaration of her triumph.

Meiling's response was a mix of frustration and protest as she challenged the legitimacy of Kusa's approach. "That's cheating!" Meiling's voice held a note of indignation, her sense of fair play momentarily disrupted by Kusa's clever tactic.

Unperturbed, Kusa explained her unconventional victory, her demeanor easygoing and nonchalant. "I gave you a time limit, and you needed to hit me, or else you lose. That's very simple," her words conveyed a sense of simplicity to her strategy as if it were all part of a casual game.

Meiling's exasperated sigh hinted at a determination to improve and rise to the challenge Kusa had presented. The defeat had ignited a fire within her to train harder, to hone her skills and perhaps turn the tables in the next encounter.

Their exchange concluded with Kusa's triumphant declaration, a demand that resonated with her recent victory. "Let us pass now," her words carried an air of smug satisfaction as if her victory granted her the right to proceed. As a gesture of good sportsmanship, Kusa presented Meiling with a basket filled with fruits—a symbol of her acknowledgment and respect for the guardian's efforts.

With their passage secured, they entered the Scarlet Devil Mansion, a place of mystery and intrigue. Their arrival caught the attention of the mansion's resident maid, Sakuya Izayoi. Sakuya's inquisitive tone cut through the air as she addressed the visitors. "Kusa and Aya, what brings you here?" Her words held a sense of curiosity, inviting an explanation for their unexpected presence.

Kusa, true to her playful nature, turned the inquiry back to Aya, her voice exaggeratedly weary. "Aya, you convinced Sakuya. I'm tired of talking," her words carried a hint of jest, a playful attempt to shift the spotlight to her companion.

Aya's response was one of reluctant compliance, understanding that her persuasive skills had led them to this point. "Okay..." Aya's voice carried a note of resignation, acknowledging her role in the unfolding scenario.

Sakuya's response carried a note of understanding as she processed the information. "I see," her tone was composed, suggesting that she had grasped the situation at hand.

Aya's perplexed reaction added a layer of intrigue to the unfolding events. "Eh?" Her voice held a mix of surprise and curiosity, indicating that she was caught off guard by the unexpected turn of events.

Within the confines of a decorative pillar, the enigmatic figures of Remilia and Flandre Scarlet made their presence known. Their banter revealed a playful argument, each one attempting to shift the responsibility for their participation onto the other. "It isn't that I want to participate, it's just Flandre who wanted to," Remilia's voice carried a hint of protest, her words attempting to deflect any blame.

Flandre's response was swift and decisive, contradicting her sister's assertion. "Nope, you want to!" Her voice held a mischievous tone, suggesting a sense of determination in her desire to take part.

The situation was not without its comedic element, a sibling disagreement playing out before their audience. "No! You want me to!" Remilia's retort carried a playful defiance, an attempt to counter Flandre's claim.

Sakuya's pragmatic approach brought the playful banter to an end, steering the group toward their intended activity. "Okay, let's start now," her voice carried a sense of authority, signaling the initiation of their bullet-dodging challenge.

Kusa's encouraging words were directed at Aya, the lightheartedness of her tone evident. "Good luck, Aya," her words offered a playful sentiment, a show of support for her companion.

Aya's response held a note of skepticism as if she couldn't believe the situation she had found herself in. "Eh... you're kidding," her words reflected a mixture of disbelief and uncertainty, perhaps questioning the sincerity of the challenge.

Amidst the chaos of the bullet hell, Kusa's actions added a touch of amusement to the scene. Creating grapes and leisurely observing Aya's struggles, her enjoyment was evident. "It's delightful," her tone carried a sense of amusement, a declaration of her enjoyment in watching the spectacle.

As the challenge concluded, Kusa presented the participants with tokens of appreciation, offering them fruits and tea ingredients as a gesture of goodwill.

--

Aya's exhaustion was evident as she struggled to regain her composure and stand up. Her voice carried a sense of defeat as she muttered, "This is a big mistake," her words expressing her regret for having embarked on the challenging task.

Kusa's response was lighthearted and reassuring, her tone meant to offer comfort to her fatigued companion. "Don't worry, Aya. We only need to meet four more people," she offered a reminder of their progress and the proximity to their goal.

Aya's protest grew more emphatic as she expressed her desire to quit. "I want to quit!!!" Her voice held a mix of frustration and exhaustion, a clear indication that the physical and mental strain had taken its toll.

Kusa, however, remained resolute in her determination to see the task through. Her response was unwavering, refusing to entertain the idea of quitting so close to the finish line. "Nope! Since we're almost finished, why quit?" Her words carried a sense of optimism and encouragement, an attempt to motivate Aya to persevere.

Aya's protest continued, her voice carrying a note of desperation. "No!!!!" Her refusal was emphatic, a final declaration of her unwillingness to continue.

--

At the Dock of the Styx River, a familiar face greeted Kusa. "Komachi!" Kusa exclaimed upon seeing the familiar figure of the Shinigami.

Komachi's surprise mirrored Kusa's. "Kusa?!" Her tone held a mix of confusion and curiosity at the unexpected encounter.

Kusa's next words were lighthearted, though tinged with a hint of mischief. "This bird wants to die," she stated, referring to Aya, who was undoubtedly feeling the strain of their adventurous quest.

Aya quickly interjected, rejecting the notion with determination. "Nope!!!"

Komachi, however, seemed to sense the need for a break and relaxation in Kusa's eyes. The shinigami's expression softened as she seemed to read the situation. "It seems I need to change your mind," Komachi remarked, her tone suggesting a certain playfulness.

Aya, on the other hand, was less enthusiastic about the prospect. "Don't do this to me!!!" she protested, likely fearing what Komachi had in mind.

Despite Aya's understandable distress, the situation seemed to push her to her limits, and she managed to perfectly capture the intricate patterns of Komachi's bullets through her lens.

As the tension shifted, Kusa had a new request. "Give me that camera so I could visit the Yama," she requested, referring to Aya's camera that had captured their interactions throughout the day.

Aya's response was a mixture of surprise and disbelief. "Eh...?!! But that's impossible!!!"

Kusa, undeterred, had her plans. "Just watch." With a confident motion, she boarded Komachi's boat, and a remarkable transformation occurred. The expansive Styx River seemed to shrink into a small pond, and Kusa effortlessly hopped to the opposite side.

The reactions were varied and momentarily left both Komachi and Aya speechless, their astonishment evident in their expressions.