Echocalypse: Scarlet Covenant story · Themed biography
Mountain Tales
Ring, the shrine maiden of the Cloud Shrine, was tasked with exorcising the Orochi. Thanks to the help of the wealthy sorcerer Roxy, the mission was a success.
27 scenes, 774 lines
1. Exorcism Request
24 linesAs night falls, snowflakes gradually start to drift in the sky. The usually glaring lights can't even light the roads now.
A figure emerged from the snow and stood in the light.
...
In the lightless snow, a massive eight-headed figure twisted into view for a split second.
The snow grew heavier and covered all signs of life.
At the hot spring beside Cloudferry
My lady! Please save us!
It's the Orochi, it has returned!
The Orochi?
That is the great demon sealed by our shrine in Driftmist Valley. We used to think it was a legend.
However, there were a few foreign tourists who got possessed by the Orochi. It took a lot of effort to seal it.
Now that those brave travelers have left, and we are finding traces of the Orochi's activity again...
Shrine Maiden, save us!
The guest told Ring everything she knew, and after getting a definite answer from Ring, she left.
A powerful demon that can possess humans, and can also put a large number of people into sleep...
How strange, is there such a snake-like Faithling?
Are you asking me?
I'm just talking to myself.
I'm curious, I'm going to go take a look, you are my guard, you come along too.
...Okay...
2. Peaceful Town
27 linesRing and Kyubey arrived at the small town in the Driftmist Valley, the town just had a heavy snowfall, and the snow on the road has not yet been cleaned up.
That guest looked flustered. I even thought the situation had escalated to an uncontrollable point.
Fortunately, we're still at peace.
If things are already out of control, then the ones who should come here are the Eastrise's army.
That's true, since we are looking for the shrine maiden, the purpose should be to strengthen the seal.
That's what a shrine maiden should do!
Are you... the shrine maiden of the Cloud Shrine?
Hmm? Hello, it's me, Ring, the shrine maiden of Cloud Shrine.
Great, I've been waiting for you.
Please hurry up and reseal the Orochi, everyone has been afraid to go up the mountain.
Afraid to go up the mountain? Has it already become this serious?
Everyone doesn't seem that nervous.
They were panicking, but then Lady Roxy arrived, and everyone let out a sigh of relief.
Lady Roxy?
She is the savior of Driftmist Valley. Many here have received her help, and so have I.
We faced many problems, but as soon as Lady Roxy stepped in, they were solved in no time.
Roxy... I think I've heard this name before.
You are from Mo Capital, right? Lady Roxy is a sorcerer from there. It's normal that you've heard of her.
Lady Roxy looked into it for us. The problem with the Orochi seal might be that we haven't held the Spirit Festival for too long, which caused the seal to weaken.
Now that everyone's focused on the festival, they're not as scared of the Orochi.
That.... hmm...
I wouldn't dare to let ordinary people go, but you are a shrine maiden, there should be no problem.
There's a small path up the mountain ahead. Just follow the road signs, and you'll reach the shrine at the back.
Okay, thank you.
No problem. The sooner we solve this, the sooner we can rest.
3. Silent Shrine
35 linesThere are plenty of signs along the way to the back mountain. Ring and Kyubey followed them and quickly reached the shrine.
It really seems that no one visits here.
I remember now.
What?
That sorcerer Roxy, she was the most famous of the unofficial sorcerers since the sorcerer's reform.
Because she was very capable?
Not sure about that. But I do know she loves alcohol.
A sorcerer who likes alcohol?
*Wind blowing
A strange wind suddenly came from the depths of the shrine...
Do you crave... my divine power?
Who's there?
Is it the Orochi?!
Huh? Shrine maiden?
This displeases me.
If you're not here for my divine power, then get lost!
*Wind blowing
The wind has become more intense!
Stop thinking, it's coming out!
That's our illusion!
I'm fine...
Something's off. I don't sense any sorcery holding the monster. The Orochi has completely broken the seal.
But if that's the case, why is it still here?
Or is it waiting for someone who craves its divine power?
So, is it a serious situation?
Should I say serious... or strange?
I remember that the Orochi was once unsealed by foreign tourists, but it was resealed afterward.
We have too little intel, we need to have a good talk with the people in the town.
Then go back to the town.
Yes?
4. Past Experience
25 linesFollowing the guidance, Ring and Kyubey returned to the small town in Driftmist Valley.
The villagers who welcomed Ring had not left. It seemed they were waiting for her.
My lady, you're back!
How is the seal of the Orochi?
The seal looked strange and needs to be maintained for a while.
I remember it was mentioned before that Orochi was unsealed by a traveler once, do you know any details?
Well...
Well, during that incident, everyone in town was controlled by the Orochi and put into a dream. For us, we slept an extra one or two hours in the morning.
To be honest, that was the best sleep I've ever had. I felt refreshed and clear-headed after waking up, but I was two hours late for work.
Is that so...
Asking the townsfolk about this matter is useless, you should ask those few foreign travelers.
Lady Roxy! You're here!
I heard that the witch of the Thousand Ruins Mountain is here, so I came to visit
I was worried at first, but seeing that you've returned from the shrine, you really are extraordinary.
Thank you for the compliment, hehe.
But you mentioned asking the foreign visitors, can you still get in touch with them?
Of course.
I had already contacted them before you arrived.
Several of them are already on their way.
Great, I have tons of questions I want to ask.
Lady Roxy, the guest from Bifrost you mentioned before, seems to have arrived.
Great! Miss Shrine Maiden, let's go.
Sure!
5. Uncovering Roots
28 linesUnder the leadership of Roxy, Ring appeared.
Awakener?
Ring, how are you here?
That's my question!
It seems like you two know each other?
Yes, Awakener is the... um... master of Cloud Shrine.
Ah, I didn't mean that Awakener is a god...
Roxy briefly introduced the situation to Awakener.
So, is it the Orochi that we once defeated appearing again?
It shouldn't be like this, after we defeated it last time, The W... *cough, one of our friends in Eastrise should have been keeping an eye on this place.
Why have I never heard any news about this place from them?
Friend in Eastrise?
On this matter, some time ago, the commander of Luminary Guard, Winno, returned to Mo Capital. After that, the residents of several small towns never appeared again.
I think your friend must have his own matters to deal with, so she didn't take care of this place.
You know Chiraha?
Of course I know the top fugitive that the Luminary Guard wants to catch. For people from Eastrise, this is normal, isn't it?
Alright, alright, I know you know a lot of people, can we now focus the Orochi?
It should be so, I also want to know how the Orochi was sealed last time.
That...
Awakener explained how the Orochi was sealed last time. Dorothy, a singer from the Empire, mesmerized the Orochi through her songs, and the serpent left the person it was possessing and revealed its true form.
After being defeated in its original form, the Orochi was resealed in the shrine.
Weakening the entity directly is indeed the correct sealing strategy... Although it's hard to believe that a song can make the Orochi reveal its entity, since you said it, it must be true.
So, where do we find a singer now who can reveal the true form of the Orochi?
Well...
6. Extravagant
26 linesDid Dorothy also come?
She should be busy now... Last time she told me, someone offered a high price to have her hold a concert.
She originally refused because she had already signed other concerts, but the person who paid also paid the penalty...
That's why I still remember all this.
Well... the person who invited her to hold a concert was me.
Huh?
Why are you so surprised?
Well, isn't Miss Roxy a sorcerer from Mo Capital? It's hard to imagine that people from Mo Capital would care so much about this place...
Hahaha, you know I'm the sorcerer of Mo Capital, then you should have also heard about my hobby.
The cloud wine from Driftmist Valley is the best among all wines. If there's a problem here, I won't be able to taste this exquisite wine anywhere else.
Is it just for the sake of alcohol?
Well, if I have to say, more than half of the industries here are mine, which is also a reason.
However, I originally invested here for the sake of wine, so in the final analysis, it's still for the wine.
You may have only heard of my name, but you haven't delved into understanding me. Those who know me would understand how determined I am just by hearing 'cloud wine'.
I understand.
So, it means that we can seal the Orochi again at any time, am I understanding this correctly?
Yes, that's correct, but before we start, we should say hello to Miss Dorothy.
I'm sorry, Miss Dorothy, although the performance fee is high, the venue is somewhat rudimentary. I hope you don't mind.
Fulfilling fans' wishes is the duty of an idol, let alone for the sake of saving a city.
I appreciate your help, Miss Dorothy.
Before the battle begins, I will do my best to wave the glow stick for you.
I'm counting on you then.
7. Exorcise Orochi
60 lines(*Stare)
Uh, is there something wrong? You've been staring at me for a long time...
Everyone came to the outside of the shrine with the singing equipment. Dorothy and Roxy went to install the equipment, while Ring and Awakener were paying attention to the situation inside the shrine.
Do you... like idols?
I do! I have attended Dorothy's concerts, the atmosphere's great!.
I see, then if I also...
You two, we're done over here. Any reactions in the shrine?
Didn't see any reaction...
Before the words were finished, the environment in the shrine changed.
Time shifted from day to night, as the cold wind blew from the shrine, chilling everyone to the bone.
That's not quite right, we didn't face this situation last time.
Everyone, be careful.
Waah...
Dorothy!
Awakener...!
Taking advantage of Dorothy's consciousness, Roxy took control of Dorothy, and Dorothy's expression instantly relaxed.
Dorothy, are you okay?
Please, Miss Dorothy.
The music began to play, and Dorothy started to sing.
...Ignorance.
It appeared!
Prepare for battle!
The song ended, the Orochi also fell, and the sky turned back to daylight.
...
...Is it over?
The trace of the Orochi can no longer be detected.
There's a kind of unreal feeling.
No, it's not over.
Last time, that's how we defeated the Orochi, I had a premonition then that it wasn't the end.
Clearly, not this time either.
We know too little about the Orochi.
You're right, not being able to detect the trace of the Orochi doesn't mean it's over.
I have learned some history of the shrine at Driftmist Valley. In addition to the seal of the Orochi, there is also a deity whose name is unknown.
In the past, people would hold a spiritual spring festival to honor the gods after defeating the Orochi, and with the help of the gods, they would completely seal the Orochi.
The Spirit Festival, isn't that the festival that the townspeople are preparing for!
Yes?
Is this also within your calculations?
Impressive!
I just like to do everything to the best within the scope of my control.
Do your best, leave the rest to fate.
Not far away, Kyubey is helping Dorothy to follow behind the crowd.
Miss Dorothy, are you okay?
Thank you for your concern, I'm fine, just thinking about some things.
Well, that's good.
Aren't you going to ask me what's the matter?
What?
Puff.
You are really interesting.
It's not a big deal, maybe it's just my illusion.
At the moment when I was about to be possessed by the Orochi, I felt a power similar to the Orochi from Miss Roxy.
For this reason, I'm slightly curious, as a famous secret artist from Mo Capital, what secret art is Miss Roxy really good at.
Hmm, ask her later?
Should I just ask... Somehow it doesn't feel quite right.
Soon everyone returned to the town, Roxy arranged luxury rooms in the inn for everyone, it looked like it would be very comfortable to stay in.
8. Night Talk
27 linesAt night, Dorothy knocked on the door of Ring's room.
Miss Shrine Maiden? Have you gone to sleep?
Regarding the incident that happened at the shrine today, I think it's necessary to discuss it with you.
Is there a problem with the seal of the Orochi?!
Shh... Not this one.
Don't you think that Miss Roxy has too deep an understanding of everything?
Huh?
What are you confused about? Didn't your escort companion tell you anything?
Ah, I should have guessed from the reaction of that security lady.
Dorothy told Ring what she had previously told Kyubey.
Did Miss Roxy use a power similar to Orochi?
Yes?
That being said, I didn't notice what kind of secret technique Miss Roxy was using...
Perhaps it's because the powers are similar, so they're afraid we might misunderstand?
Would Miss Roxy really overlook such a thing, given her meticulousness?
She has arranged everything!
On it!
Let's find an opportunity to ask Miss Roxy in person tomorrow.
Dorothy looked at the seemingly innocent girl in front of her and showed a helpless smile.
9. Avid Drinker
17 linesAfter defeating the Orochi, everyone returned to the small town.
Roxy arranged everyone in the luxury rooms of the hotel, Ring was the last one to choose a room.
How is this room? Miss Shrine Maiden.
It's me who should thank you. If the issue with the Orochi isn't resolved, my favorite cloud wine will have to cease production.
Which I absolutely cannot accept.
But compared to you, it seems like we haven't done much...
Really? Maybe you think this crisis ended too easily, so it doesn't feel real.
But from my perspective, ever since the last time Dorothy and her team sealed the Orochi, I have been preparing for today.
I have gone through numerous historical documents such as Driftmist Valley Records and Thousand City Records that record the history of various Faithlings, and have formulated countless plans and backup plans.
Everything I've done is for today.
No, it should be said that it's tomorrow.
After the Spirit Festival, the Orochi will truly be sealed. At that time, I should also truly be able to let go.
Thank you for your hard work, Miss Roxy.
I don't like to hear this, if you really think I've worked hard, pour me a few more drinks tomorrow.
I just like this.
10. Stranger
14 linesThere is still some time before going to bed, let's take a stroll around the town.
Hello, Miss Shrine Maiden.
Who's there?
Don't be nervous, I'm just a normal passenger.
Excuse me, Miss Shrine Maiden, do you know how to get to the shrine here?
The shrine here is going to be renovated recently, and it is temporarily not open to the public.
It will be fine if you come back after a while.
I see...
Alright, Miss Shrine Maiden, could you point me in the direction of the shrine?
I took a photo from a distance, it shouldn't affect the renovation, right?
You should be able to tell, I am from the Empire, and I don't know when I will be able to come here again.
(If you go further, you will see the sign to the shrine. If you don't agree with her, she might go to the shrine by herself.)
If it's just taking a photo from a distance, there's no problem.
Thank you, Miss Shrine Maiden, you are so great.
11. Peaceful Town
Side story · 27 linesRing and Kyubey arrived at the small town in the Driftmist Valley, the town just had a heavy snowfall, and the snow on the road has not yet been cleaned up.
That guest looked flustered. I even thought the situation had escalated to an uncontrollable point.
Fortunately, we're still at peace.
If things are already out of control, then the ones who should come here are the Eastrise's army.
That's true, since we are looking for the shrine maiden, the purpose should be to strengthen the seal.
That's what a shrine maiden should do!
Are you... the shrine maiden of the Cloud Shrine?
Hmm? Hello, it's me, Ring, the shrine maiden of Cloud Shrine.
Great, I've been waiting for you.
Please hurry up and reseal the Orochi, everyone has been afraid to go up the mountain.
Afraid to go up the mountain? Has it already become this serious?
Everyone doesn't seem that nervous.
They were panicking, but then Lady Roxy arrived, and everyone let out a sigh of relief.
Lady Roxy?
She is the savior of Driftmist Valley. Many here have received her help, and so have I.
We faced many problems, but as soon as Lady Roxy stepped in, they were solved in no time.
Roxy... I think I've heard this name before.
You are from Mo Capital, right? Lady Roxy is a sorcerer from there. It's normal that you've heard of her.
Lady Roxy looked into it for us. The problem with the Orochi seal might be that we haven't held the Spirit Festival for too long, which caused the seal to weaken.
Now that everyone's focused on the festival, they're not as scared of the Orochi.
That.... hmm...
I wouldn't dare to let ordinary people go, but you are a shrine maiden, there should be no problem.
There's a small path up the mountain ahead. Just follow the road signs, and you'll reach the shrine at the back.
Okay, thank you.
No problem. The sooner we solve this, the sooner we can rest.
12. Silent Shrine
Side story · 35 linesThere are plenty of signs along the way to the back mountain. Ring and Kyubey followed them and quickly reached the shrine.
It really seems that no one visits here.
I remember now.
What?
That sorcerer Roxy, she was the most famous of the unofficial sorcerers since the sorcerer's reform.
Because she was very capable?
Not sure about that. But I do know she loves alcohol.
A sorcerer who likes alcohol?
*Wind blowing
A strange wind suddenly came from the depths of the shrine...
Do you crave... my divine power?
Who's there?
Is it the Orochi?!
Huh? Shrine maiden?
This displeases me.
If you're not here for my divine power, then get lost!
*Wind blowing
The wind has become more intense!
Stop thinking, it's coming out!
That's our illusion!
I'm fine...
Something's off. I don't sense any sorcery holding the monster. The Orochi has completely broken the seal.
But if that's the case, why is it still here?
Or is it waiting for someone who craves its divine power?
So, is it a serious situation?
Should I say serious... or strange?
I remember that the Orochi was once unsealed by foreign tourists, but it was resealed afterward.
We have too little intel, we need to have a good talk with the people in the town.
Then go back to the town.
Yes?
13. Past Experience
Side story · 25 linesFollowing the guidance, Ring and Kyubey returned to the small town in Driftmist Valley.
The villagers who welcomed Ring had not left. It seemed they were waiting for her.
My lady, you're back!
How is the seal of the Orochi?
The seal looked strange and needs to be maintained for a while.
I remember it was mentioned before that Orochi was unsealed by a traveler once, do you know any details?
Well...
Well, during that incident, everyone in town was controlled by the Orochi and put into a dream. For us, we slept an extra one or two hours in the morning.
To be honest, that was the best sleep I've ever had. I felt refreshed and clear-headed after waking up, but I was two hours late for work.
Is that so...
Asking the townsfolk about this matter is useless, you should ask those few foreign travelers.
Lady Roxy! You're here!
I heard that the witch of the Thousand Ruins Mountain is here, so I came to visit
I was worried at first, but seeing that you've returned from the shrine, you really are extraordinary.
Thank you for the compliment, hehe.
But you mentioned asking the foreign visitors, can you still get in touch with them?
Of course.
I had already contacted them before you arrived.
Several of them are already on their way.
Great, I have tons of questions I want to ask.
Lady Roxy, the guest from Bifrost you mentioned before, seems to have arrived.
Great! Miss Shrine Maiden, let's go.
Sure!
14. Uncovering Roots
Side story · 28 linesUnder the leadership of Roxy, Ring appeared.
Awakener?
Ring, how are you here?
That's my question!
It seems like you two know each other?
Yes, Awakener is the... um... master of Cloud Shrine.
Ah, I didn't mean that Awakener is a god...
Roxy briefly introduced the situation to Awakener.
So, is it the Orochi that we once defeated appearing again?
It shouldn't be like this, after we defeated it last time, The W... *cough, one of our friends in Eastrise should have been keeping an eye on this place.
Why have I never heard any news about this place from them?
Friend in Eastrise?
On this matter, some time ago, the commander of Luminary Guard, Winno, returned to Mo Capital. After that, the residents of several small towns never appeared again.
I think your friend must have his own matters to deal with, so she didn't take care of this place.
You know Chiraha?
Of course I know the top fugitive that the Luminary Guard wants to catch. For people from Eastrise, this is normal, isn't it?
Alright, alright, I know you know a lot of people, can we now focus the Orochi?
It should be so, I also want to know how the Orochi was sealed last time.
That...
Awakener explained how the Orochi was sealed last time. Dorothy, a singer from the Empire, mesmerized the Orochi through her songs, and the serpent left the person it was possessing and revealed its true form.
After being defeated in its original form, the Orochi was resealed in the shrine.
Weakening the entity directly is indeed the correct sealing strategy... Although it's hard to believe that a song can make the Orochi reveal its entity, since you said it, it must be true.
So, where do we find a singer now who can reveal the true form of the Orochi?
Well...
15. Extravagant
Side story · 26 linesDid Dorothy also come?
She should be busy now... Last time she told me, someone offered a high price to have her hold a concert.
She originally refused because she had already signed other concerts, but the person who paid also paid the penalty...
That's why I still remember all this.
Well... the person who invited her to hold a concert was me.
Huh?
Why are you so surprised?
Well, isn't Miss Roxy a sorcerer from Mo Capital? It's hard to imagine that people from Mo Capital would care so much about this place...
Hahaha, you know I'm the sorcerer of Mo Capital, then you should have also heard about my hobby.
The cloud wine from Driftmist Valley is the best among all wines. If there's a problem here, I won't be able to taste this exquisite wine anywhere else.
Is it just for the sake of alcohol?
Well, if I have to say, more than half of the industries here are mine, which is also a reason.
However, I originally invested here for the sake of wine, so in the final analysis, it's still for the wine.
You may have only heard of my name, but you haven't delved into understanding me. Those who know me would understand how determined I am just by hearing 'cloud wine'.
I understand.
So, it means that we can seal the Orochi again at any time, am I understanding this correctly?
Yes, that's correct, but before we start, we should say hello to Miss Dorothy.
I'm sorry, Miss Dorothy, although the performance fee is high, the venue is somewhat rudimentary. I hope you don't mind.
Fulfilling fans' wishes is the duty of an idol, let alone for the sake of saving a city.
I appreciate your help, Miss Dorothy.
Before the battle begins, I will do my best to wave the glow stick for you.
I'm counting on you then.
16. Exorcise Orochi
Side story · 60 lines(*Stare)
Uh, is there something wrong? You've been staring at me for a long time...
Everyone came to the outside of the shrine with the singing equipment. Dorothy and Roxy went to install the equipment, while Ring and Awakener were paying attention to the situation inside the shrine.
Do you... like idols?
I do! I have attended Dorothy's concerts, the atmosphere's great!.
I see, then if I also...
You two, we're done over here. Any reactions in the shrine?
Didn't see any reaction...
Before the words were finished, the environment in the shrine changed.
Time shifted from day to night, as the cold wind blew from the shrine, chilling everyone to the bone.
That's not quite right, we didn't face this situation last time.
Everyone, be careful.
Waah...
Dorothy!
Awakener...!
Taking advantage of Dorothy's consciousness, Roxy took control of Dorothy, and Dorothy's expression instantly relaxed.
Dorothy, are you okay?
Please, Miss Dorothy.
The music began to play, and Dorothy started to sing.
...Ignorance.
It appeared!
Prepare for battle!
The song ended, the Orochi also fell, and the sky turned back to daylight.
...
...Is it over?
The trace of the Orochi can no longer be detected.
There's a kind of unreal feeling.
No, it's not over.
Last time, that's how we defeated the Orochi, I had a premonition then that it wasn't the end.
Clearly, not this time either.
We know too little about the Orochi.
You're right, not being able to detect the trace of the Orochi doesn't mean it's over.
I have learned some history of the shrine at Driftmist Valley. In addition to the seal of the Orochi, there is also a deity whose name is unknown.
In the past, people would hold a spiritual spring festival to honor the gods after defeating the Orochi, and with the help of the gods, they would completely seal the Orochi.
The Spirit Festival, isn't that the festival that the townspeople are preparing for!
Yes?
Is this also within your calculations?
Impressive!
I just like to do everything to the best within the scope of my control.
Do your best, leave the rest to fate.
Not far away, Kyubey is helping Dorothy to follow behind the crowd.
Miss Dorothy, are you okay?
Thank you for your concern, I'm fine, just thinking about some things.
Well, that's good.
Aren't you going to ask me what's the matter?
What?
Puff.
You are really interesting.
It's not a big deal, maybe it's just my illusion.
At the moment when I was about to be possessed by the Orochi, I felt a power similar to the Orochi from Miss Roxy.
For this reason, I'm slightly curious, as a famous secret artist from Mo Capital, what secret art is Miss Roxy really good at.
Hmm, ask her later?
Should I just ask... Somehow it doesn't feel quite right.
Soon everyone returned to the town, Roxy arranged luxury rooms in the inn for everyone, it looked like it would be very comfortable to stay in.
17. Night Talk
Side story · 27 linesAt night, Dorothy knocked on the door of Ring's room.
Miss Shrine Maiden? Have you gone to sleep?
Regarding the incident that happened at the shrine today, I think it's necessary to discuss it with you.
Is there a problem with the seal of the Orochi?!
Shh... Not this one.
Don't you think that Miss Roxy has too deep an understanding of everything?
Huh?
What are you confused about? Didn't your escort companion tell you anything?
Ah, I should have guessed from the reaction of that security lady.
Dorothy told Ring what she had previously told Kyubey.
Did Miss Roxy use a power similar to Orochi?
Yes?
That being said, I didn't notice what kind of secret technique Miss Roxy was using...
Perhaps it's because the powers are similar, so they're afraid we might misunderstand?
Would Miss Roxy really overlook such a thing, given her meticulousness?
She has arranged everything!
On it!
Let's find an opportunity to ask Miss Roxy in person tomorrow.
Dorothy looked at the seemingly innocent girl in front of her and showed a helpless smile.
18. Avid Drinker
Side story · 17 linesAfter defeating the Orochi, everyone returned to the small town.
Roxy arranged everyone in the luxury rooms of the hotel, Ring was the last one to choose a room.
How is this room? Miss Shrine Maiden.
It's me who should thank you. If the issue with the Orochi isn't resolved, my favorite cloud wine will have to cease production.
Which I absolutely cannot accept.
But compared to you, it seems like we haven't done much...
Really? Maybe you think this crisis ended too easily, so it doesn't feel real.
But from my perspective, ever since the last time Dorothy and her team sealed the Orochi, I have been preparing for today.
I have gone through numerous historical documents such as Driftmist Valley Records and Thousand City Records that record the history of various Faithlings, and have formulated countless plans and backup plans.
Everything I've done is for today.
No, it should be said that it's tomorrow.
After the Spirit Festival, the Orochi will truly be sealed. At that time, I should also truly be able to let go.
Thank you for your hard work, Miss Roxy.
I don't like to hear this, if you really think I've worked hard, pour me a few more drinks tomorrow.
I just like this.
19. Stranger
Side story · 14 linesThere is still some time before going to bed, let's take a stroll around the town.
Hello, Miss Shrine Maiden.
Who's there?
Don't be nervous, I'm just a normal passenger.
Excuse me, Miss Shrine Maiden, do you know how to get to the shrine here?
The shrine here is going to be renovated recently, and it is temporarily not open to the public.
It will be fine if you come back after a while.
I see...
Alright, Miss Shrine Maiden, could you point me in the direction of the shrine?
I took a photo from a distance, it shouldn't affect the renovation, right?
You should be able to tell, I am from the Empire, and I don't know when I will be able to come here again.
(If you go further, you will see the sign to the shrine. If you don't agree with her, she might go to the shrine by herself.)
If it's just taking a photo from a distance, there's no problem.
Thank you, Miss Shrine Maiden, you are so great.
20. Silent Shrine
Side story · 35 linesThere are plenty of signs along the way to the back mountain. Ring and Kyubey followed them and quickly reached the shrine.
It really seems that no one visits here.
I remember now.
What?
That sorcerer Roxy, she was the most famous of the unofficial sorcerers since the sorcerer's reform.
Because she was very capable?
Not sure about that. But I do know she loves alcohol.
A sorcerer who likes alcohol?
*Wind blowing
A strange wind suddenly came from the depths of the shrine...
Do you crave... my divine power?
Who's there?
Is it the Orochi?!
Huh? Shrine maiden?
This displeases me.
If you're not here for my divine power, then get lost!
*Wind blowing
The wind has become more intense!
Stop thinking, it's coming out!
That's our illusion!
I'm fine...
Something's off. I don't sense any sorcery holding the monster. The Orochi has completely broken the seal.
But if that's the case, why is it still here?
Or is it waiting for someone who craves its divine power?
So, is it a serious situation?
Should I say serious... or strange?
I remember that the Orochi was once unsealed by foreign tourists, but it was resealed afterward.
We have too little intel, we need to have a good talk with the people in the town.
Then go back to the town.
Yes?
21. Past Experience
Side story · 25 linesFollowing the guidance, Ring and Kyubey returned to the small town in Driftmist Valley.
The villagers who welcomed Ring had not left. It seemed they were waiting for her.
My lady, you're back!
How is the seal of the Orochi?
The seal looked strange and needs to be maintained for a while.
I remember it was mentioned before that Orochi was unsealed by a traveler once, do you know any details?
Well...
Well, during that incident, everyone in town was controlled by the Orochi and put into a dream. For us, we slept an extra one or two hours in the morning.
To be honest, that was the best sleep I've ever had. I felt refreshed and clear-headed after waking up, but I was two hours late for work.
Is that so...
Asking the townsfolk about this matter is useless, you should ask those few foreign travelers.
Lady Roxy! You're here!
I heard that the witch of the Thousand Ruins Mountain is here, so I came to visit
I was worried at first, but seeing that you've returned from the shrine, you really are extraordinary.
Thank you for the compliment, hehe.
But you mentioned asking the foreign visitors, can you still get in touch with them?
Of course.
I had already contacted them before you arrived.
Several of them are already on their way.
Great, I have tons of questions I want to ask.
Lady Roxy, the guest from Bifrost you mentioned before, seems to have arrived.
Great! Miss Shrine Maiden, let's go.
Sure!
22. Uncovering Roots
Side story · 28 linesUnder the leadership of Roxy, Ring appeared.
Awakener?
Ring, how are you here?
That's my question!
It seems like you two know each other?
Yes, Awakener is the... um... master of Cloud Shrine.
Ah, I didn't mean that Awakener is a god...
Roxy briefly introduced the situation to Awakener.
So, is it the Orochi that we once defeated appearing again?
It shouldn't be like this, after we defeated it last time, The W... *cough, one of our friends in Eastrise should have been keeping an eye on this place.
Why have I never heard any news about this place from them?
Friend in Eastrise?
On this matter, some time ago, the commander of Luminary Guard, Winno, returned to Mo Capital. After that, the residents of several small towns never appeared again.
I think your friend must have his own matters to deal with, so she didn't take care of this place.
You know Chiraha?
Of course I know the top fugitive that the Luminary Guard wants to catch. For people from Eastrise, this is normal, isn't it?
Alright, alright, I know you know a lot of people, can we now focus the Orochi?
It should be so, I also want to know how the Orochi was sealed last time.
That...
Awakener explained how the Orochi was sealed last time. Dorothy, a singer from the Empire, mesmerized the Orochi through her songs, and the serpent left the person it was possessing and revealed its true form.
After being defeated in its original form, the Orochi was resealed in the shrine.
Weakening the entity directly is indeed the correct sealing strategy... Although it's hard to believe that a song can make the Orochi reveal its entity, since you said it, it must be true.
So, where do we find a singer now who can reveal the true form of the Orochi?
Well...
23. Extravagant
Side story · 26 linesDid Dorothy also come?
She should be busy now... Last time she told me, someone offered a high price to have her hold a concert.
She originally refused because she had already signed other concerts, but the person who paid also paid the penalty...
That's why I still remember all this.
Well... the person who invited her to hold a concert was me.
Huh?
Why are you so surprised?
Well, isn't Miss Roxy a sorcerer from Mo Capital? It's hard to imagine that people from Mo Capital would care so much about this place...
Hahaha, you know I'm the sorcerer of Mo Capital, then you should have also heard about my hobby.
The cloud wine from Driftmist Valley is the best among all wines. If there's a problem here, I won't be able to taste this exquisite wine anywhere else.
Is it just for the sake of alcohol?
Well, if I have to say, more than half of the industries here are mine, which is also a reason.
However, I originally invested here for the sake of wine, so in the final analysis, it's still for the wine.
You may have only heard of my name, but you haven't delved into understanding me. Those who know me would understand how determined I am just by hearing 'cloud wine'.
I understand.
So, it means that we can seal the Orochi again at any time, am I understanding this correctly?
Yes, that's correct, but before we start, we should say hello to Miss Dorothy.
I'm sorry, Miss Dorothy, although the performance fee is high, the venue is somewhat rudimentary. I hope you don't mind.
Fulfilling fans' wishes is the duty of an idol, let alone for the sake of saving a city.
I appreciate your help, Miss Dorothy.
Before the battle begins, I will do my best to wave the glow stick for you.
I'm counting on you then.
24. Exorcise Orochi
Side story · 60 lines(*Stare)
Uh, is there something wrong? You've been staring at me for a long time...
Everyone came to the outside of the shrine with the singing equipment. Dorothy and Roxy went to install the equipment, while Ring and Awakener were paying attention to the situation inside the shrine.
Do you... like idols?
I do! I have attended Dorothy's concerts, the atmosphere's great!.
I see, then if I also...
You two, we're done over here. Any reactions in the shrine?
Didn't see any reaction...
Before the words were finished, the environment in the shrine changed.
Time shifted from day to night, as the cold wind blew from the shrine, chilling everyone to the bone.
That's not quite right, we didn't face this situation last time.
Everyone, be careful.
Waah...
Dorothy!
Awakener...!
Taking advantage of Dorothy's consciousness, Roxy took control of Dorothy, and Dorothy's expression instantly relaxed.
Dorothy, are you okay?
Please, Miss Dorothy.
The music began to play, and Dorothy started to sing.
...Ignorance.
It appeared!
Prepare for battle!
The song ended, the Orochi also fell, and the sky turned back to daylight.
...
...Is it over?
The trace of the Orochi can no longer be detected.
There's a kind of unreal feeling.
No, it's not over.
Last time, that's how we defeated the Orochi, I had a premonition then that it wasn't the end.
Clearly, not this time either.
We know too little about the Orochi.
You're right, not being able to detect the trace of the Orochi doesn't mean it's over.
I have learned some history of the shrine at Driftmist Valley. In addition to the seal of the Orochi, there is also a deity whose name is unknown.
In the past, people would hold a spiritual spring festival to honor the gods after defeating the Orochi, and with the help of the gods, they would completely seal the Orochi.
The Spirit Festival, isn't that the festival that the townspeople are preparing for!
Yes?
Is this also within your calculations?
Impressive!
I just like to do everything to the best within the scope of my control.
Do your best, leave the rest to fate.
Not far away, Kyubey is helping Dorothy to follow behind the crowd.
Miss Dorothy, are you okay?
Thank you for your concern, I'm fine, just thinking about some things.
Well, that's good.
Aren't you going to ask me what's the matter?
What?
Puff.
You are really interesting.
It's not a big deal, maybe it's just my illusion.
At the moment when I was about to be possessed by the Orochi, I felt a power similar to the Orochi from Miss Roxy.
For this reason, I'm slightly curious, as a famous secret artist from Mo Capital, what secret art is Miss Roxy really good at.
Hmm, ask her later?
Should I just ask... Somehow it doesn't feel quite right.
Soon everyone returned to the town, Roxy arranged luxury rooms in the inn for everyone, it looked like it would be very comfortable to stay in.
25. Night Talk
Side story · 27 linesAt night, Dorothy knocked on the door of Ring's room.
Miss Shrine Maiden? Have you gone to sleep?
Regarding the incident that happened at the shrine today, I think it's necessary to discuss it with you.
Is there a problem with the seal of the Orochi?!
Shh... Not this one.
Don't you think that Miss Roxy has too deep an understanding of everything?
Huh?
What are you confused about? Didn't your escort companion tell you anything?
Ah, I should have guessed from the reaction of that security lady.
Dorothy told Ring what she had previously told Kyubey.
Did Miss Roxy use a power similar to Orochi?
Yes?
That being said, I didn't notice what kind of secret technique Miss Roxy was using...
Perhaps it's because the powers are similar, so they're afraid we might misunderstand?
Would Miss Roxy really overlook such a thing, given her meticulousness?
She has arranged everything!
On it!
Let's find an opportunity to ask Miss Roxy in person tomorrow.
Dorothy looked at the seemingly innocent girl in front of her and showed a helpless smile.
26. Avid Drinker
Side story · 17 linesAfter defeating the Orochi, everyone returned to the small town.
Roxy arranged everyone in the luxury rooms of the hotel, Ring was the last one to choose a room.
How is this room? Miss Shrine Maiden.
It's me who should thank you. If the issue with the Orochi isn't resolved, my favorite cloud wine will have to cease production.
Which I absolutely cannot accept.
But compared to you, it seems like we haven't done much...
Really? Maybe you think this crisis ended too easily, so it doesn't feel real.
But from my perspective, ever since the last time Dorothy and her team sealed the Orochi, I have been preparing for today.
I have gone through numerous historical documents such as Driftmist Valley Records and Thousand City Records that record the history of various Faithlings, and have formulated countless plans and backup plans.
Everything I've done is for today.
No, it should be said that it's tomorrow.
After the Spirit Festival, the Orochi will truly be sealed. At that time, I should also truly be able to let go.
Thank you for your hard work, Miss Roxy.
I don't like to hear this, if you really think I've worked hard, pour me a few more drinks tomorrow.
I just like this.
27. Stranger
Side story · 14 linesThere is still some time before going to bed, let's take a stroll around the town.
Hello, Miss Shrine Maiden.
Who's there?
Don't be nervous, I'm just a normal passenger.
Excuse me, Miss Shrine Maiden, do you know how to get to the shrine here?
The shrine here is going to be renovated recently, and it is temporarily not open to the public.
It will be fine if you come back after a while.
I see...
Alright, Miss Shrine Maiden, could you point me in the direction of the shrine?
I took a photo from a distance, it shouldn't affect the renovation, right?
You should be able to tell, I am from the Empire, and I don't know when I will be able to come here again.
(If you go further, you will see the sign to the shrine. If you don't agree with her, she might go to the shrine by herself.)
If it's just taking a photo from a distance, there's no problem.
Thank you, Miss Shrine Maiden, you are so great.