The three foxes and Aether and Paimon were strolling along the coast of Byakko Plain. Till they saw three children jumping up and down.

Tamamo: Huh? Now what are those children doing?

Paimon: Why don't we go find out.

The group walks over to the children for answers then the children noticed them. But what got them surprised was Tamamo.

Matsuzaku: Look! A kitsune!

Saika: There's three of them!

Iwao: Let's go!

The three children first went up to Tamamo No Mae.

Saika: Look at the tail. It's real.

Matsuzaka: And so are the ears.

Iwao: Kitsunes are real.

Tamamo: My my. Children are sure energetic. Yes, I am a kitsune. I did have nine tails before but not anymore.

Iwao: Really?

Tamamo: Yes.

Tamamo gives the three children head pats.

Paimon: You seem to be good with children, Tamamo.

Tamamo: I am. I do strive to be a good wife and a wise mother.

Sakura and Higokumaru: Yeah...

Tamamo: Anyways, would you mind telling us on why you three are out here?

Matsuzaka: We're looking for the Great Mujina Youkai!

Saika: Do you know where it lives?

Paimon: "Great Mujina Youkai"? What's that?

Matsuzaka: Huh? You've never heard of it?

Tamamo: Can't say that we have.

Matsuzaka: It's a sneaky monster that goes 'round playing tricks on people! It's got magic powers and can even shapeshift into anything it wants!

Sakura: (Sounds like Sayu. That does fit her description).

Iwao: One time, the Great Mujina Youkai stole some rice from our house. And this other time, it pushed my dad into the river.

Paimon: Sounds like a very naughty little monster!

Higokumaru: And a mischievous little creature causing too many pranks!

Aether: Why are you out looking for it?

Saika: 'Cause, we've finally found out how to chase it away!

Iwao: My dad said that the Great Mujina Youkai likes to play tricks on people who stay out all the time and don't come home when they're supposed to. So all we need to do is chase it away, then we can come out and play whenever we want!

Paimon: This monster sounds scary, though... Aren't you guys afraid?

Tamamo: You know how bad certain Youkai and Demons are. Except the kitsunes. They were misunderstood.

Paimon: Surely your parents must be worried about you?

Sakura: You should be going home to them.

Iwao: Not really. I told my dad that I was going to find the Great Mujina Youkai with some friends, and he didn't even say anything.

Matsuzaka: So, we think it must be weak right now! It's probably hiding away so it can rest!

Saika: Yeah! So as long as we get home before it gets its strength back, we'll be safe.

Paimon: Hmm, something sounds very strange about all of this... But Paimon can't say exactly what it is...

Aether: If a monster's coming for you, surely you won't be safe at home.

Paimon: Yeah... Paimon feels like the Great Mujina Youkai is one of those storybook monsters that doesn't exist in the real world.

Aether: I think so too. Guess the parents just don't want their kids staying out all the time.

Sakura: I've seen all sorts of Youkai back where I'm from. Some of them were real and some of them were not real.

Tamamo: So have I. Even Ibaraki is a Youkai Demon. She caused a massacre and killed a ton of people. Even I killed a lot of people because I was misunderstood and I was just defending myself.

Tamamo: (I am listed as one of the three most evil Youkai in Japanese Mythology. I didn't mean to drain the emperor's life energy. I regretted killing those people.)

Paimon: Wait... You did what?!

Tamamo: I was just protecting myself! I tried to escape but I failed and died. Then I became a familiar.

Sakura: Alright enough. Back to the topic at hand.

Paimon: We should tell them, so they don't waste all their time looking for it.

They tried to reason with the children.

Paimon: Oh, children, listen up! There's no need to go looking for the Great Mujina Youkai, alright? Because it isn't real.

Sakura: Sure most Youkai exist but not this one.

Matsuzaka: Huh!?

Saika: No way...

Iwao: That's impossible. My dad wouldn't lie to me!

Paimon: Your folks are just worried about you, is all. They don't want you wandering too far from home, because it's too dangerous.

Tamamo: They're just protecting you, because they love you. Mikon~

Tamamo: (That's a quote from "Charlie and The Chocolate Factory. Teaching a lesson about why parents protect their children).

Iwao: That's not true! The Great Mujina Youkai is definitely real!

Matsuzaka: Yeah! Yoimiya's even making some weapon for us! And then, she's gonna show us how to blow it up!

Sakura: Wait? Yoimiya?

Paimon: Yoimiya, huh? Wait, as in... fireworks-prison-break Yoimiya?

Higokumaru: Yep! That's her!

Saika: We told her all about the Great Mujina Youkai. She said we shouldn't be scared of it — we should learn how to chase it away instead.

Matsuzaka: We've been waiting for ages now, and finally, Yoimiya said that today's the day!

Iwao: Uh-huh, uh-huh! Yoimiya plays with us and tells us stories all the time. She wouldn't tell a lie!

Paimon: But, but...

Sakura: Why would she do that?

Iwao: Hmph! C'mon, let's get outta here and go find Yoimiya!

Paimon: Wait, hold on! Don't go!

Sakura: And there they go.

Paimon: Huh, they didn't seem to take that very well... But Paimon was only trying to look out for them...

Tamamo: Well you did it terrible, Miss. Emergency Food.

Paimon: WHAT DID YOU JUST CALL PAIMON?! You dare call Paimon emergency food?! I'M GONNA GIVE YOU A BAD NICKNAME FOX LADY!

Tamamo takes out her mirror.

Tamamo: I'll show you you!

But Sakura smacks them both on the head.

Sakura: No fighting.

Paimon and Tamamo: Yes ma'am.

Paimon: Anyways. Who knows what Yoimiya's got to do with this. Let's follow the kids and see what's going on.

Tamamo: Yes, let's do that and find out. Mikon~

So they decide to follow the children.

Yoimiya: Cheer up guys, don't be so down. They were only joking back there. How could the Great Mujina Youkai not exist, huh?

Matsuzaka: B—But, we've never seen it for ourselves...

Yoimiya: That's because the Great Mujina Youkai is extra powerful! And that's exactly why I need your help, isn't it?

Matsuzaka: Ummmm...

Yoimiya: It's okay, don't be discouraged. Hey, remember, if you wanna be a hero, you gotta have patience — and wisdom, too. Even if you can't find it right now, it'll definitely show up before the fireworks show starts. So remember to come and pick up your weapons from me before then, okay? No matter how powerful the Great Mujina Youkai might be, it's no match for my specially made fireworks! Just light 'em up and you'll scare it off, no problem. It's up to you guys to protect your homes, your crops, and your folks!

Matsuzaka: Got it! Thanks, Miss Yoimiya, we'll try and be more patient!

Yoimiya: Oh yeah, hold up a sec. I have a few slips of paper for you guys — one each. Remember to give it to your parents and tell them to keep it safe. Just tell them it's from Yoimiya. They'll know what it's about.

Iwao: Okay! Thank you, Yoimiya! We're gonna go back now.

Saika: Thanks, Yoimiya! Come play with us soon!

Yoimiya: Sure thing, will do! Take care on the way back, and I'll see you later!

Sakura face palmed.

Sakura: What are you doing now, Yoimiya?

Paimon: Uhh... so...

Sakura: It's been a while.

Aether: We meet again.

Yoimiya: Ah, so it WAS you guys. I guessed as much from the way the kids described you. No worries, though, I'm not blaming you.

Tamamo: Why are they believing about the Great Mujina Youkai?

Yoimiya: The Great Mujina Youkai is pretty popular with the kids, so of course they're gonna get upset if someone tries to tell them it doesn't exist.

Paimon: Okay... but it definitely doesn't exist... right?

Yoimiya: Yeah, the first time I heard about it, I knew straight away that it was probably something the parents had come up with to stop the kids from running off all the time. But when the kids asked me about it, I didn't wanna break it to them. I just told them that it looks cute, likes to play pranks, and doesn't hurt people. So I guess now, the kids' impression of the Great Mujina Youkai is mostly influenced by me.

Paimon: Huh... So in a way, this monster is all a product of your creativity...

Aether: Surely it's a bad idea to keep the lie going like that?

Yoimiya: Maybe so. In any case, I'm not gonna be the one who exposes it. Sure, it's likely that the parents just wanted to stop the kids from staying out all the time. But they could have easily had other reasons, too. If I just go ahead and tell them that the Great Mujina Youkai doesn't exist without knowing the full story, then who knows — I may be doing more harm than good. Besides, they're just kids. They should be allowed to believe it if it makes them happy. That's more important to them than questioning what's real and what isn't. Heck, I entertain my fair share of fantasies too... The Fire Diamond that spins around and shoots out lights that are all the colors of the rainbow... Ooh — the Mist Spirits that live far off in the mountains and guide you to fairyland if you can find them...

Tamamo: What about other Youkai like kitsunes?

Yoimiya: Them too. I know that they don't really exist, but I still enjoy believing in them. If someone came up to me and starting telling me to "stop being so stupid, they don't exist, nyah nyah nyah"... I'd give them the evil eyes and tell them to get the heck out of my face! Because... grr, it's just so annoying!

Sakura: I kind of get what you are saying.

Yoimiya: Right!? So what if it's made up — it's also really awesome and kinda magical. So it's not up to anyone else to tell me what's what!

Aether: Why be so childish about it?

Yoimiya: Because maybe it doesn't matter so much if something's real or not. Maybe magic and awesomeness are what make something worth believing. Why should someone else get to take that away from you?

Tamamo: So you can move on.

Yoimiya: The things we believed and the experiences we had when were young turn into our priceless treasures as we grow up. When you were kids, surely you guys believed in things like heroes who slayed dragons, and sacred swords that cut through darkness? It's the same thing.

Sakura: Well I did have a few fairy tales that I believed in.

Tamamo: And most of us servants never even existed like Kojiro.

Yoimiya: If we tear apart these kids' fairy tales now, what else do we have to tell them? That Inazuma is locked down? All the grim tales of the Vision Hunt Decree? I think it's a bit too early for all of that.

Paimon: Uh... Yeah! Oh, way too early. For sure!

Aether: You didn't follow that at all, did you?

Yoimiya: Haha, whether you understood me or not, don't you worry. I'll take care of the kids, and make sure they stay safe. Ahh! Okay, it's about time I headed back. The Naganohara Fireworks Show is just around the corner, and there's still a lot of things to get ready.

Paimon: Naganohara Fireworks Show? Is that hosted by your family or something?

Yoimiya: Well, yeah, I mean, that's why our name is on the event. It's well-known throughout Inazuma. Oh, on the subject — are you busy these days? If not, then you should totally come along. I'll prepare an extra-pretty firework, just for you!

Aether: We'll gladly take you up on that offer.

Tamamo: Some fireworks would be nice.

Yoimiya: Hee-hee, in that case, come with me to Naganohara, we'll go see my pops! There're still a few fireworks to finish off before the show.

Higokumaru: Yeah let's go!

They went on their way

Yoimiya: Inazuma is home to the Yae Publishing House, and a lot of people who like to write stories, too. In fact, most of what they write is based off of the kinds of fairy tales I was just talking about. A bunch of them have bad endings, though. Like, oh — the Fire Diamond will get put in a rich person's gallery, where it will never be ignited again. Or someone will see the Mist Spirit, and not manage to catch it, but because they angered it, it'll never show itself again. The hero who slays the dragon becomes the next dragon... The sacred sword that once fought the darkness now becomes a doomsday weapon...

Tamamo: Now those are bad endings.

Yoimiya: *sigh* I know these kinds of stories are all the rage nowadays, but... I really can't bring myself to like them.

Sakura: What we hate about bad endings are the main characters getting killed off. But most people like seeing the main characters getting killed off saying that they are good stories. In fact, most people hate plot armor.

Yoimiya: Plot Armor?

Sakura: Something that keeps characters alive but sometimes creators of stories remove the plot armor killing their characters off. And it's wrong to kill off protagonists and other types of main characters. Tons of people get angry when that happens but most people like protagonists and main characters getting killed off. When characters are constantly being shielded by their creators to prevent them from being able to die, the creators lose the motivation to try/work harder. That half of the audience thinks that having a character stay unscathed all the time will eventually make for a boring series. And killing off protagonists at the end of stories is wrong.

Yoimiya: Now that was some ranting.

Sakura: Sorry. Those are things Patrick would say.

Yoimiya: If something's magical, it should be kept that way.

Tamamo: It should.

(Naganohara Fireworks)

Yoimiya: Hey, Pops, I'm back!

Sakura: Greetings Mr. Naganohara. It's nice to see you again.

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: The fireworks show is almost upon us, and the fireworks for each family are almost ready.

Higokumaru: Oh, that's great.

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Oh, new faces? Who are these two? Friends, or customers?

Yoimiya: A bit of both actually. They arrived in Inazuma just recently. Can't let them miss out on a fireworks show after coming all this way, can we?

Tamamo: We can't. Mikon~

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Hahaha, well, either way, come on in and have a seat and I, Naganohara Ryuunosuke, will tell you all about the long history of the Naganoharas.

Yoimiya: That can wait. Pops, I need to ask you about something.

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Ahh... A long, long time ago...

Naganohara Ryuunosuke talked over their dialogue.

Yoimiya: *sigh* Pops has started telling his stories again... Sorry about this — ever since Pops had his accident, his ears don't work too well.

Sakura: He's deaf.

Paimon: Really? But for a moment there, it almost seemed like you were having a coherent conversation...

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Much, much later, people eventually realized that if you grind certain minerals into dust, they burn with many beautiful colors.

Yoimiya: Pops — Pops wait!

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Eh? What is it?

Yoimiya: Did they deliver those firework materials that we ordered yet?

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Oh, yesterday's fireworks have all been delivered. So have the ones from the day before yesterday, and the ones from the day before that.

Yoimiya: No, Pops. I meant the materials. The materials that we ordered. They should have arrived today.

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Today's fireworks are almost ready, too, don't you worry! Hehe, your old man's skills are still as sharp as ever.

Yoimiya: No— Pops, the materials! The raw materials for making fireworks.

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Sorry?

Foxes: THE MATERIALS!

Yoimiya: Ma-te-ri-als!

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Oh... Ohh, the materials?

Paimon: Yes, yes! The materials!

Paimon: Sorry, sorry... Paimon got all excited because you finally got the message across, hehe...

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: The materials aren't here yet. The couriers did come over to explain why, but... Well, I think they did, but I couldn't quite hear what they were saying...

Yoimiya: No worries, as long as we know, that's fine. We can just make them later. Oh, uh — don't forget to take the goods in when they deliver them, okay, Pops?

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Of course, leave it to me.

Sakura: (He sounds just like Mohammed Avdol).

Yoimiya: Oh, sorry if we were a little loud. it's always the way, though — it's like that every time I need to ask pops something.

Aether: Still, he seems like a warm and friendly person.

Yoimiya: Uh-huh, that's my pops! He's a good person, alright. Everyone around here respects him.

Sakura: I think the two of you are quite similar.

Yoimiya: Hehe, I get told that a lot. Because my pops is deaf, he never argues with anyone, and never contradicts them. He just listens cheerfully. When I was little, I thought it was because he really understood me, and agreed with whatever I had to say. So, I'd tell my pops everything. Eventually, I realized that the reason he was like that was that he's deaf. But I still tell him stories every day.

Paimon: Huh? Why would you do that?

Yoimiya: It just makes me happy to see him smile. And it keeps him from being lonely, right?

Sakura: Yes. That's what's she told us.

Yoimiya: Anyway. More importantly right now, the fireworks show is right around the corner and the materials still haven't arrived. We need to think of an alternative...

Someone spoke out.

???: Um, Yoimiya, is that you?

Yoimiya: Wah! Oh, you scared me there! I thought I told you to be more careful before you speak?

???: S—Sorry...

Yoimiya: Hold on, I'm coming over.

Sakura: *sigh* We better follow her.

Paimon: But what about...

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Oh, don't worry about me, go take care of business first. There'll always be time for my stories later. I have a lot of time, and a lot of stories to tell, too.

Paimon: Fine.

(Confirm the source of the sound)

So they followed Yoimiya to confirm the source of the voice.

Yoimiya: No one's looking. Okay, you can come out now. Uh, come around the side.

The person hiding inside the house carefully crawls out the window.

Yoimiya: *sigh* We're lucky that no one from the Tenryou Commission was around, otherwise, we'd all be in big trouble.

Sakura: My goodness. Another Vision bearer hiding from the Vision Hunt Decree.

???: Sorry, I guess I was a little rash. But when I heard you come back, I just...

Yoimiya: Don't worry Sakujirou. So far, at least, everything is going according to plan. We're going to look for firework materials shortly. While we're out, we'll sort out the boat situation for you, as promised.

Sakujirou: Thank you for all your help.

Aether: Who is this? And why is he hiding in your house?

Yoimiya: He's one of our old customers. He came back to Inazuma from the outside world not long ago. While he was smuggling himself in, the Tenryou Commission found him and put out a warrant for his arrest...

Paimon and Higokumaru: An arrest warrant!?

Sakura: Not a Vision Bearer?!

Yoimiya: Shhhh, keep it down! We don't want to draw any unwanted attention. If Sakujirou is caught, there's no knowing what crimes they could charge him with. All we can do is find him a boat and send him out of Inazuma again.

Aether: But isn't there a thunderstorm out in the ocean?

Yoimiya: Yeah, we know it's going to be dangerous, but there aren't many other options left.

Paimon: What if the boat capsizes? Uhh! Drowning is really scary! If things are this bad, couldn't you have just not come back in the first place?

Sakura: Few people have gotten out of Inazuma. But most of them don't survive.

Sakujirou: Well... There is something I felt I had to do... But as soon as I got back, I started hearing about all these unbelievable changes. I had my mind up, originally, but now I'm not sure anymore... I didn't want to cause any trouble for Yoimiya or Mr. Ryuunosuke, but I'm very grateful to them for taking me in.

Yoimiya: Hey, no worries, you're more than welcome. Remember what I said? As long as you've got that little piece of paper, you'll always be a valued customer of the Naganoharas.

Paimon: Little piece of paper...?

Aether: Like the paper slips you gave to the kids?

Yoimiya: Yep, the same paper slips as the ones I gave to the kids earlier. Whenever a customer orders fireworks for a commemorative event, we always include a little paper slip with the goods. Only people from my inside my family can understand what's written on it. It's the recipe for the fireworks they ordered. If someone shows a Naganohara that paper slip, we guarantee we can make the exact same firework as the original one they purchased, whether it's ten or even a hundred years later.

Paimon: Wow, that is so awesome!

Sakura: The same as always.

Yoimiya: It's a family tradition. All our regular customers know about this.

Sakujirou: The slip I have is from back when my parents ordered fireworks from Mr. Ryuunosuke. Now I think about it, it must be nearly 20 years ago. *sigh* Who would have thought that things would turn out the way they have...

Yoimiya: It'll be fine. Escaping in a boat is just a last resort for if there's no other way. I'll still try and come up with a different solution, because it'd be much better if you could stay in Inazuma.

Tamamo: That would be a good idea.

Yoimiya: Whatever their reasons might be, if our customers come to us looking for help, we're not about to leave them high and dry.

Sakujirou: Thank you... This way, I'll still have some time to consider my options...

Yoimiya: Alright, well, let's not stay out here in the open for too long. Hurry up and get back inside. I'll let you know as soon as I have an update for you.

Sakujirou: Thank you, I—I'll leave it to you, then, I guess.

Sakujirou goes back into hiding.

Yoimiya: *sigh* It's a shame, they still wouldn't give him a permit, even though he was born and raised in Inazuma. Speaking of, you guys only got here recently, how did you manage to get a permit?

Aether: We went through a long bureaucratic process on Ritou.

Sakura: It was hard for Aether and Paimon.

Paimon: Even then, we only got through thanks to some help from Miss Hiiragi Chisato of the Kanjou Commission.

Yoimiya: I see, so you had big shots helping you. I guess that won't be of much help to Sakujirou.

Yoimiya: *sigh* I just wish the commissions could be a little more flexible.

Sakura: Me too.

Yoimiya: I bet nowhere else you've been is quite like Inazuma, huh?

Aether: It's true. Each archon has their own idea on how to run things.

Yoimiya: *sigh* Well, no matter what, I have to find a way to help him. I'm sorry, I invited you to come and watch the fireworks, but now I have to run a few errands. You don't have to join me if you don't want to. I can go sort out the firework materials and the boat by myself, and then you can come and meet me back at the house later.

Sakura I think we should come along with you.

Aether: I'm interested to learn how fireworks are made.

Yoimiya: Oh, cool! Then let's start with Sakujirou's boat. We can chat along the way!

They went on their way.

Yoimiya: Oh yeah, if it's fine with you, can I ask how you two first met?

Paimon: He saved me from drowning this one time, and after that we started traveling together... Why do you ask?

Yoimiya: Oh, nothing... I'm just quite envious of your relationship. If my pops had a person like you around, his being deaf wouldn't hold things up all the time.

Paimon gets excited.

Yoimiya: ...Huh? Why do you look so excited?

Paimon: Because, because... You said "person," and not "floating child", or "mascot"!

Sakura: Paimon hates being called those things.

Yoimiya: Is that so?

Higokumaru: Yes. Like how you called me and Selene's Elgy a person when we first met.

Later they arrive at the location.

Yoimiya: Kouichi! I'm here, how is the boat coming along?

Kouichi: Yeah, it's... alright, I guess. Um, I was questioned though... Wait, wait. Should we really be talking about this in front of them?

Yoimiya: Oh, don't worry, they're my friends, you can trust them! They came with me to check up on the boat.

Paimon: Yeah! You could say we're all in the same BOAT here! Haha...

Higokumaru: What a pun.

Aether: Pleasure to meet you.

Kouichi: Oh, I see... Sorry, I didn't mean to doubt you, I'm just being cautious. The boat is ready, but I'll have to be discreet moving it here.

Paimon: Huh? Why is that?

Kouichi: Because of the Sakoku Decree. The Tenryou Commission is really suspicious of any kind of seaborne vessel. Even the smallest ones — they'll stop and interrogate us, demanding to know what we plan on doing with it. It's a real nuisance.

Yoimiya: I understand. I'm sorry for dragging you into this mess...

Koichi: Haha, don't be silly. I'm actually happy that you came to me for help. I've always come to you for fire works, and again this time — so just consider this my way of saying thank you. Right, I'll go fetch the boat now. I should be back shortly.

Yoimiya: Thank you! If it's on the way, you can always pick up your fireworks from my house. Everything was made in strict accordance with what was on the paper slip, you won't find the slightest thing wrong with them.

Kouichi: Alright then. The fireworks show will be starting soon, won't it — you should make sure your new friends get to see it. It's an Inazuman tradition, after all.

Sakura: Oh don't worry. We will.

Yoimiya: Yep, that's the plan! ...Oh! You know what, you should tell them about your past — about the first time you ordered fireworks from my family.

Kouichi: That's a long story, actually... Where do I start... ...Oh, uh — maybe I'll come back to that after moving the boat here.

Yoimiya: Oh, right, yeah. Got caught up in the conversation there, hehe.

Kouichi: Okay, well, I'll leave you to it for now and meet you back here later.

Koichi leaves.

Yoimiya: Hehe, lucky he reminded me, otherwise I would've ended up chatting the rest of the day away. I've been so busy with the fireworks business these past few days that I haven't had a moment to stop and chat with anyone. Ugh, it's killing me.

Tamamo: You should get some help.

Yoimiya: Of course, Pops is happy to listen to me chatter away... but because he can hardly hear anything, it's difficult to get an interesting reaction from him... ...Aaaand I'm doing it again, aren't I? Ugh. What I meant to say was, while Kouichi is bringing the boat here, we should try to find some firework materials.

Sakura: Patrick's father always likes chatting for so long. At least that's what he told me.

Yoimiya: I need to make fireworks not just for you guys, but for those kids and Sakujirou as well. We're missing a lot of materials.

Aether: If it's too much trouble, don't worry about us.

Yoimiya: It'll be fine. It's actually like this every year, there's always a bunch of extra orders to slot in here and there. When people want fireworks, it's always because they have something to commemorate. And if they miss the chance, they might never get another one. So, no matter how busy I am, I'm always happy to take their orders.

Paimon: So, what you're trying to say is that you enjoy the work?

Yoimiya: Oh, I do! I really do. Being born into a family of fireworks makers, I feel like since I was a kid, I've been obsessed with watching things go BOOM and then seeing all the lights and colors and... ...Uh, but what I really wanted to say was: Don't worry about me, it'll all be fine!

Aether: Oh, so THAT's what you meant... Your main point got a bit buried in all the extra information.

Sakura: Even I had trouble understanding her but now I do.

Tamamo and Higokumaru: And us!

Yoimiya: Sorry, sorry! It's just that good conversation can be as fleeting as fireworks, sometimes, you know? So when I'm in the mood and I've got a lot to say, I just have to get it all out there in one go and leave no regrets! Let's head to the city, I think I'll try my luck with some people that I know.

On the way to find fireworks materials, Paimon asks a question.

Paimon: Question! Doesn't it hurt your voice, talking all the time?

Yoimiya: It can get uncomfortable, I guess... But what else would I be using my voice for?

Paimon: Huh... you kinda have a point.

(Later)

They found the first material.

Yoimiya: Ah, here we are! Hello, Morihiko. How's business these days?

Morihiko: Haha, Yoimiya, there you are. I thought you might show up. No need to beat about the bush — you'll be here for the firework materials, I assume? I put a batch aside just for now. It'll definitely be enough.

Yoimiya: Huh? Really? How did you know!?

Morihiko: Because a fireworks show is coming up! And that usually means you'll be running all over the place trying to get your hands on some last-minute materials.

Sakura: Ok...

Morihiko: I've come to except it now. There's always a few extras unaccounted for, eh.

Foxes: Yeah...

Yoimiya: So sorry for bothering you every time...

Morihiko: Ah, come on now, you know I didn't mean it like that! I'd sooner have my business go under than turn down one of your requests.

Morihiko: What about you five, are you the ones needing some fireworks made?

Tamamo: Oh yes we are.

Aether: Hi, yes, thank you ever so much. Sorry for the trouble.

Morihiko: Haha, it's no trouble at all, my friend. Once when I'd had an argument with my son, Yoimiya was the one who came and calmed him down. I'm hopeless at communicating with him. If it wasn't for Yoimiya, who knows, he probably would've run away by now...

Yoimiya: Naw, it was never gonna come to that. He's a sensitive kid and he cares a lot about your feelings. It's just... he doesn't know how to express it. Maybe if you turned that frown upside down once in a while, he might feel more at ease.

Morihiko: Yeah, I guess I'm probably too serious around him... Which is strange, because I don't think I'm anything like that when I'm talking with other people...

Yoimiya: Don't worry about it! No one's perfect. If you have any more trouble in the future, just come to me. Even if it's not fireworks-related, I'll happily oblige. Customers come first, always.

Morihiko: Haha, alright then. Everyone's always saying what a good kid you are. Your father must be very proud of you. Go ahead and take the ore, by the way. It's on the house.

Yoimiya: Oh no you don't! That's out of question!

Morihiko: Relax, just take it as a token of my gratitude.

Yoimiya: Gratitude won't pay your bills, though... Don't do this to me, can't we just play by normal business rules here?

Morihiko: I already said it's fine. Please, just take it. Surely you've got a whole load of other things you need to get done today?

Yoimiya: Um... Well, how about this, then: I'll record this in my notebook, and we can consider it a down payment against any fireworks you want to purchase in the future.

Morihiko: *sigh* There's no convincing you, is there... Alright then, if you insist. Pass on my regards to your dad. Tell him Morihiko wishes him health and happiness.

Yoimiya: Will do. You look after yourself as well. Don't push yourself too hard — you don't wanna make yourself ill again.

Paimon: Everyone seems to really like you, Yoimiya.

Sakura: It's true. We've seen how everyone likes her.

Higokumaru: And they really love her fireworks.

Aether: Seems like you'd happily do anything for anyone.
Yoimiya: You're not the first person to say that. In fact, some people think I'll literally do any favor they ask me to. When that happens, I say to them "Hey! This is a fireworks store! We do fireworks!" But, ugh. They don't always listen. So, it can't be helped... but also, it's not really a big deal.

Aether: Fireworks are pretty important to Inazumans, huh?

Yoimiya: Well, for one thing, if you want to commemorate something, naturally you're gonna want something loud, bright, and beautiful. But I think more importantly than that, everyone trusts us. If it wasn't for our customers, we wouldn't be able to stay in business. Anyway, we've got all the materials we need now, so that solves that problem Next, we just need to go find someone to process them!

(Amenoma Smithy)

Yoimiya: Hajime, Mr. Amenoma! It's me!

Foxes: And us!

Hajime: Ah, Yoimiya, Sakura, Higokumaru, and Tamamo. If I'm not mistaken, you must be here for some firework materials?

Paimon: Seems like everyone knows how busy Yoimiya gets leading up to the fireworks show.

Hajime: I'm very sorry, would you be able to wait for a while? I have quite a backlog of weapons orders right now.

Yoimiya: No worri— Oh wait, actually... Ahh, yeah, that could be a problem... some worries.

Sakura: Big time.

Yoimiya: Oh, how about this! Do you need a hand? As long as we can get through your orders, you can help me process my ore, right?

Hajime: Uh... that will depend on my master...

Yoimiya: Oh, you don't mind, do you, Mr. Amenoma! As you know, it's not long now until the Naganohara Fireworks Show starts. There's still a lot of fireworks left to make. If I don't finish them on time...

Amenoma Tougo: Talkative as ever, I see, dear child. The essence of Amenoma Art is patience and focus. When the mind is disturbed, it will show in the blade that is forged. If you badger Hajime like this, you will only succeed in disrupting his concentration.

Hajime: B—But, this is a special circumstance, surely! The Naganohara Fireworks Show is right around the corner...

Amenoma Tougo: So give me your ore, and I will process it for you.

Hajime: Huh!? Master... you mean, you'll do the work personally?

Amenoma Tougo: Is that so surprising? It is, after all, the only option.

Yoimiya: Thank you for helping out, Mr. Amenoma!

Sakura: You're the best!

Amenoma Tougo: You're quite welcome. The Naganohara Fireworks Show is an important event, this I know well. In addition to this, I am indebted to Ryuunosuke for all the business he has given me. But Yoimiya... you should plan things more carefully in the future. Do not rush everything at the last minute.

Yoimiya: Hehe, I'll try my best. In the future, I'll get some extra materials in to cover any unexpected changes of plan late in the day.

Amenoma Tougo: *sigh* Though for you, dear child, no matter how much you prepare in advance, it may never be enough... Excuse me. I will be back shortly.

Amenoma Tougo finishes processing the ore.

Yoimiya: Wow, Mr. Amenoma! Just look at the shape and size of these grains... It's beautiful. I'm at a loss for words. It's been a while since I've seen you take up your tools, but it looks like your craft hasn't degraded one bit.

Amenoma Tougo: Of course. I have studied these techniques my whole life... they are impossible for me to forget.

Paimon: So have Amenoma Art and Naganohara Fireworks been working together for a really long time already?

Sakura: Yes they have.

Amenoma Tougo: Back in the day, it was my master and Ryuunosuke's father. The people may have changed from one generation to another, but the ingredients required to make fireworks have remained the same. Hajime, in the future, this will be up to you.
Hajime: I know, I know...

Yoimiya: Hahaha, alright, I won't bother you guys any longer. Remember to come and watch the fireworks! Okay, guys, time to head off. Kouichi probably isn't back just yet, but let's go wait for him.

They leave Amenoma Smithy and head back to the location to meet Kouichi.

Yoimiya: Ah, just as I thought, he isn't back yet. But not to worry, because actually, I've been hoping for a chance to have a nice long chat with you all day. Sorry for dragging you with me everywhere... Everyone's been so good to me though. It's all gone really smoothly, hee-hee.

Sakura: Oh no. It's no problem at all.

Paimon: *sigh* Feels like Paimon has barely spoken a word this whole trip.

Aether: You seem to get along well with everyone. It was nice just listening quietly.

Yoimiya: I felt like I was neglecting you guys, so I wanted to find an opportunity to catch up. When we first met, I was in a hurry. We didn't have a chance to sit down and have a proper chat.

Sakura: That was the same when we first met you before Aether and Paimon came to Inazuma.

Yoimiya: You guys are travelers, right? So, where else did you go before coming to Inazuma?

Aether: Mondstadt, the City of Freedom.

Yoimiya: Sounds great! I heard that they pretty much have no rules over there, right? So people are free to live their life however they want, doing whatever makes them happy.

Sakura: Yes. That's what Mondstadt is all about.

Yoimiya: My pops actually received a gift from one of his old customers over there. It was from the winery or something...

Paimon: Dawn Winery! Their Dandelion Wine is super famous.

Yoimiya: Oh, yes! That's the one. I remember when he drank it — hee-hee, I've never seen him enjoy a bottle of wine so much in his life! He was telling me all night about how good it tasted.

Higokumaru: We've also been to Liyue, the nation of contracts.

Yoimiya: I haven't been to Liyue before, but from what I've heard from Miss Beidou, it sounds like a really interesting place. But something big happened there recently, right? Didn't their archon leave all of sudden?

Sakura: Yes, he did.

Paimon: Yeah, a lot of crazy things went down as a result. *sigh* Luckily, everyone worked together to stave off a huge disaster that could have wiped out the whole city.

Yoimiya: Oh, well that's good to hear. I gotta say, it's pretty remarkable that the citizens managed to step up and keep things going even after their archon left. I mean, I sure can't imagine Inazuma without the Shogun. My friend once said to me that only people with a strong will and a clear purpose decide to go traveling. Maybe it's to see a certain view or to fulfill a certain wish... So. What made you guys embark on your treacherous journey to Inazuma?

Sakura: Two reasons.

Aether: To track down an enemy god and I'm looking for my lost sister.

Paimon: And we're looking for answers from the gods, too.

Sakura: And the third reason was to reassemble the party after we got separated when coming to Teyvat.

Yoimiya: You were separated from your family because of a god?

Sakura: Yes he was.

Yoimiya: Oh... That must be really tough.

Aether: Sometimes it is. But I'm slowly learning to cope.

Yoimiya: I get it. Well, if that's how it is, then that's how it is. Eh-he, y'know, I was going to ask you guys if you wanted to stay here in Inazuma. Unlike the outside world, what Inazuma seeks is eternity. In other words, a state of tranquility, where very little ever changes. The advantage of that is that if you're tired from your journey, Inazuma's a great place to come and rest.

Sakura: I suppose Inazuma would be a good place to rest in.

Yoimiya: Umm... let me put it this way. I was just worried that you might be getting weary, and if you keep pressing on in that state, you might start to lose sight of the things that made you want to start your journey in the first place.

Paimon: *sigh* Sometimes, that's also just how it is.

Yoimiya: When you're exhausted, everything becomes an uphill struggle. Even trying to have fun — you won't be able to enjoy yourself if you're too tired. An adventurer friend of mine once told me that if you're too focused on reaching the end of the race, you'll miss a lot of opportunities and precious moments to be had along the way.

Aether: ... I'll bear that in mind.

Yoimiya: Don't worry though, I'm sure I can think of some way to get you feeling relaxed and happy! And you're here now, so even if you're gonna leave eventually, I wanna make sure you at least leave with fond memories. Who knows — once you're reunited with your family, maybe you'll find Inazuma the right kind of place to call home.

Sakura: If we could put an end to the Vision Hunt Decree and the other changes first.

Aether: I'll add it to my list of candidates. It also depends what my sister thinks.

Yoimiya: Hehe, I already have an idea of the color and type of fireworks I wanna give you guys. I'll keep it a secret for now, though.

Kouichi: Yoimiya, I'm back! Sorry to keep you waiting! Let's head over to the boat... or, uh, did you want to keep chatting a little longer?

Aether: We just finished, as it happens.

Kouichi: Okay, good. Let's go, then. Just act naturally, though, we don't want to raise any suspicion.

Paimon: If it can withstand the storms out on the ocean, it must be super sturdy, right?
Kouichi: Absolutely. Rest assured that the quality is guaranteed.

They go to the shore to confirm the ship's condition.

Paimon: That's way too small!

Aether: It is technically sturdy though... Makes me think of Atsuko.

Sakura: She did manage to get out of Inazuma and to Liyue through luck.

Kouichi: Can't be helped, I'm afraid, this is the biggest and sturdiest boat that I can provide. It's built from the finest Inazuman timber. Still, I'll be the first to admit that if he's planning to ride this into the storm, it's going to be exceedingly dangerous...

Yoimiya: I'm also hoping Sakujirou won't have to use it. It's just there as a last resort. I gotta say, though, Kouichi, it feels like your craft has improved once again.

Kouichi: Haha, I'm not the one you should be praising. It's all thanks to the guys who kindly pitched in. To avoid detection, we each worked on our own materials separately, then assembled them secretly in the night. This is the largest we could afford to build it. Any bigger and there's no way it would pass the Tenryou Commission's inspection.

Yoimiya: Let's store the boat here for now, then. I'll fill Sakujirou in when I get back, he'll need to make some preparations before setting sail.

Paimon: Uh-oh, Paimon feels really worried all of a sudden... Uh... Doesn't helping Sakujirou make you a collaborator in the eyes of the Tenryou Commission?

Yoimiya: Haha, maybe it does, but I knew what I was getting into from the moment I agreed to help him. My family has pretty good connections with the Yashiro Commission. We work very closely with them. And whenever there's a national event of any sort, the other two Commissions come to us, too. As long as I'm polite and respectful and don't cause a fuss, they won't look to cause trouble for me, either. And anyway, to your point about collaboration... you've been helping out too, right?
Paimon: That's true, this was all a collaborative effort... wait, huh? *gasp* Oh no!

Sakura: Once again we're going to be fugitives.

Aether: We were chased by the Millelith in Liyue, too.

Higokumaru: Do we have to be the bad guys in Inazuma as well?

Yoimiya: Ah, so you're seasoned crooks already, eh? Don't know what I was worried about then! Hehe.

Sakura: Yeah.

Tamamo: Feels like what happened to me a long time ago all over again.

Yoimiya: Anyway, thanks for everything, Kouichi. Oh, and your fireworks are ready, so just go and pick them up from my house whenever you want. While you're there, you can get my pops to settle the boat construction fees.

Kouichi: Oh, don't worry about paying anything. Third Sis would be sure to scold me if she found out I'd taken Mora from the Naganoharas.

Paimon: Who's Third Sis?

Yoimiya: Oh! Uh, let me explain this one, it's a story my pops told me. There used to be a thriving merchants' guild in Inazuma, it got really prosperous. At one point, there were a dozen or so kids born around the same time to the families of the guild. They all grew up together, each of them learning their respective family's business. They were a tightly knit group of friends, but eventually, they all grew up and decided they each wanted to go into business themselves. It was inevitable that their business would send them all to different corners of the world, and that they'd have far less opportunity to see each other in the future.

Kouichi: That's right. Just before we went our separate ways, the eldest of the group suggested that we should all go watch some fireworks together one last time.

Yoimiya: Hehe, they were all very ambitious types, and each had their own knack for doing business. One by one, they left, until Kouichi was the only one of them remaining in Inazuma. After that, he hardly saw them. But whenever one of them did come back to visit, fireworks would always be involved.

Sakura: Is that so?

Kouichi: Yeah, no matter how close you and your friends are, there's always going to be some distance after being separated for a long time. But as soon as the fireworks lit up the sky, it'd instantly take us right back to our childhood, and we'd be chatting away like in the old days. To us, those memories are eternal.

Paimon: Ohh, so this is what you meant when you were talking about commemorating things.

Yoimiya: Yep, that's exactly right. That's why I can't let people down when they're counting on me for their fireworks. Anyway, I need to go update Sakujirou. See you, Kouichi! Thanks again for your help! Yeah, I should get out of here, too. I don't want to get caught red-handed.

On the way back to Yoimiya's place, Yoimiya decides to speak again.

Yoimiya: Okay, story time. So, whenever Kouichi brings one of his friends from the trade association to see me, they always mention how they used to play with me when I was a kid, or held me once as a baby, or something.

Sakura: Did they really?

Yoimiya: Yes! But there are so many of them in that friendship group, and I don't remember anything from that age anyway. So I never have a clue who they are. One time, he shows up with another one of his friends, and the friend asks me if I remember him.

Higokumaru: What do you answer with?

Yoimiya: So I'm like, "Yes, I do! You held me once when I was just a baby!" Kouichi just bursts out laughing and says actually, this is one of his carpenter friends. Turns out he's a lot younger than he looks — just a few years older than me. I went bright red and must have apologized, like, a million times. Arghhhh, it was so embarrassing.

(Tell Sakujirou the ship's location)

Yoimiya: The boat is a-ready and waiting. I'll mark the location for you on the map. Before you leave, I recommend that you pack some food and water. You can never be too prepared.

Sakujirou: Ah... *sigh* After how much effort it took to get back in, it's hard to convince myself to leave again... especially when I'll be going up against the stormy ocean on a tiny little boat... My prospects don't look great.

Sakura: You'll be able to get through the storm. Just like one of our old friends in Liyue Harbor who is from Inazuma.

Yoimiya: Well, they won't look much better if you get caught by the Tenryou Commission... I'm afraid that sooner or later, they are going to find you here. Time is starting to run out.

Sakujirou: I'm sorry, I'll make sure to get out of here before they come. I promise I won't cause you and your family any more trouble.

Yoimiya: I didn't mean it like that. If we ran into any problems, I'm sure I'd figure something out. But if the Tenryou Commission does catch up to you, then make a run for the boat.

Sakujirou: Okay. I won't let them catch me... But... *sigh* Ah, I guess this whole trip was a waste in the end.

Paimon: Why did you wanna come back to Inazuma anyway? Is there something you wanted to do?

Sakujirou: I didn't use to like this place at all, that' why I left. But looking back on things now, I was really just running away from my responsibilities.

Higokumaru: Running away from your responsibilities?

Sakujirou: Once I started to realize that, I got restless. I couldn't top thinking about the people and the things I'd left behind... So, I... Ah, forget it, what does it matter now. It's too late, anyway. I originally wanted to make up for all my regrets, but instead, I found myself in the situation I'm in now.

Yoimiya: *sigh* What a pity...

Paimon: Talk to us about it, maybe we could—

Yoimiya: If only there was no Sakoku Decree, huh.

Sakura: And no Vision Hunt Decree either.

Yoimiya: Anyway, don't worry, we're not going to bother you about it. We'll keep trying to buy you as much time as possible until you reach your final decision. The Tenryou Commission... If only they weren't so overzealous, there might be a way... Oh, that's right! That elderly couple, old customers of ours — their son's in the Tenryou Commission, isn't he? Yeah, quite high up, as well.

Yoimiya: That's it! I'll go talk to them. Maybe they can do something!

Sakujirou: Um... Are you sure they won't just report me instead?

Yoimiya: Oh, don't worry about that. They're really nice people, I know them well. They won't cause us any issues. Alright, you should get back indoors, Sakujirou. We'll be back in no time time at all. Okay, let's go. Time waits for no one.

Higokumaru: Yeah, let's go!

Yoimiya: Wait, hang on... What about the fireworks? All those materials... there's so many orders to finish... ...Pops! Pops! Oh, never mind. I know, I'll write him a note telling him to sort out the fireworks!

Yoimiya swiftly finishes writing the paper slip. They are finally ready to set off.

Paimon: Ahem, why did you cut Paimon off earlier?

Yoimiya: Because what he needs isn't an answer, just time.

(Konda Village)

So they went to Konda Village to ask an old couple.

Imatani Kaori: Well! If it isn't Yoimiya! Come on in, dear, come and take a seat. Are these your friends?

Yoimiya: Yes, they're travelers from afar. Outsiders have a very difficult time getting into Inazuma nowadays.

Sakura: I may look like a resident of Inazuma but I'm actually not.

Tamamo: I'm not a resident of Inazuma either.

Higokumaru: Neither am I.

Imatani Saburou: Indeed, these are unprecedented times. But seeing as they came all this way, we locals should give them a warm welcome.

Yoimiya: Mm-hmm. Oh, before I forget — I brought the fireworks that you ordered.

Imatani Saburou: Oh, thank you, dear. Your family is so good to us, every year. First your father, and now you. I wonder if I'll still be alive to see the next heir of Naganohara Fireworks.

Yoimiya: Of course you will, you're both in great health! Don't say things like that, it's bad luck.

Imatani Kaori: *sigh* We aren't as young as we once were, though. The body knows it. It used to be that I could spend all day working the land, carrying water back and forth, but now, even a moment of light work leaves me with all sorts of aches and pains. I wanted to do some weeding yesterday, but as soon as I bent down to get started, I suddenly felt that if I went any further, I wouldn't be able to get back up again.

Yoimiya: No worries, say no more — we'll handle it!

Imatani Saburou: No, no, no, we can't be putting you to work when you're a guest in our home. I'll just go fetch the tea and some snacks, and then we'll continue our conversation.

Yoimiya: It's fine, it's not like it's the first time I've helped you with chores. I just haven't had much time recently with the fireworks show coming up — but once that's outta the way, I'll be sure to come by more often.

Paimon: It's no trouble, really. We don't mind helping.

Sakura: Let us do it.

Imatani Kaori: *sigh* You're such good kids... As for mine, he's all grown up now, hasn't found anyone yet, and he doesn't visit very often. If you're quite sure it's no trouble, then... I have some pickled radish here, would you mind delivering it to Satoru on the other side of the village?

Yoimiya: Sure, it won't take us a moment. The old folks aren't very mobile, so c'mon, let's help them out. We'll get rid of the weeds first and then deliver the pickled radish.

So they cut the plants and cleared the area.

Sakura: There you go. All done.

Yoimiya: Yeah, you got it. And that should just about do it.

Yoimiya: Satoru is on the other side of the village, let's go see him now.

Imatani Kaori: Thank you, dears. *sigh* Sorry to make you run errands for us.

Imatani Saburou: I'll brew some tea and prepare some snacks for when you get back.

So the group goes to Satoru.

Yoimiya: Hey, Satoru, how have you been? Keeping well?

Satoru: Same as usual, not much has changed. You're looking full of life, as always.

Yoimiya: All thanks to the support of our loyal customers. The family business just keeps getting better and better. We sold some fireworks to Liyue a while back, and word is they were a real hit. So it looks like we'll be getting more business from over there in the future.

Satoru: That must mean a lot more work for you though? Are you sure you and Mr. Ryuunosuke can manage?

Satoru: If it gets too much, don't forget you can always ask me for help. Hmm?

Yoimiya: We should be fine. I think we can cope. Oh yeah, um, this is some Pickled Radish from Mrs. Imatani.

Sakura: Here you go.

Satoru: Wow, thank you so much! I never used to be a fan of Pickled Radish, would you believe.

Higokumaru: We do.

Satoru: But then I tried some of Mrs. Imatani's homemade stuff, and I couldn't get enough of it. It's a family staple now.

Yoimiya: Speaking of your family, how is everyone doing?

Satoru: They're doing well. We have the occasional heated argument, but... I guess that's every family ever. Being close to family is better than never getting to see them, even if it does mean putting up with some conflict.

Tamamo: No matter how close you are with family or friends, there will always be arguments and conflicts.

Satoru: Now, Mr. and Mrs. Imatani seem to have a great relationship — but still, they must get lonely with their child never visiting.

Yoimiya: Huh, they didn't seem that way to me. I think they're just used to it. You make a good point though. I should drop by more often in the future. That way, they won't get so bored.

Satoru: I'm sure they'd love that — as would all of us in Konda Village. You're always welcome here.

Yoimiya: Hee-hee, thank you. Now that we've finished all the chores, it's time to talk to the Imatanis about Sakujirou.

Satoru: The Naganohara Fireworks Show must be coming up soon, right? My daughter left quite a while ago.

Tamamo: Did she?

Satoru: Heh, she couldn't get out the house quickly enough. She's clearly very taken with this boy in the city, it was written all over her face... *sigh* But, at least she's happy, I suppose.

They reported back to the old couple.

Imatani Kaori: That was quick! Ah, young people are so handy.

Yoimiya: Younger people have bundles of energy, and older people have a wealth of wisdom. Each have their strengths.

Higokumaru: And weaknesses.

Imatani Saburou: Speaking of youth... Do you know what? It's been 50 years this year.

Imatani Kaori: Oh, so it has! Goodness, how the time flies... You barely notice as the years go by, but then suddenly, 50 years have passed.

Paimon: 50 years since what? Some important day?

Imatani Saburou: Haha, well, if you must know, it was 50 years ago, back in the days when this young lady was still trying to win me over, that—

Imatani Kaori: Oh, stop trying to impress them. We both know you were the one who was hopelessly smitten and desperately trying to win my affection...

Imatani Saburou: Well, maybe you're right. 50 years ago, I proposed to my wife at the Naganohara Fireworks Show. We've been together ever since.

Aether: Congratulations to you both.

Sakura: You should be very proud of what you have.

Tamamo: I'm jealous. I wish that someone proposed to me.

Imatani Saburou: To tell the truth, I was still a little uncertain. I wasn't sure what I was doing when I walked into the Naganoharas' shop and ordered my firework. Even as it was rising up into the sky... I still had no clue what I was going to say. But then it exploded... the sky lit up... I looked back at her and saw her eyes, twinkling in the light of the fireworks... ...Before I knew what was happening, apparently, I'd already said it, and well, she'd said yes.

Imatani Kaori: 50 years... In some ways, it's a long time, in others, it's no time at all. Really, it's just a number. But 50 years of being together... now that is something worth commemorating.

Yoimiya: I had no idea it was your 50th anniversary. If I'd known, I would've made some extra-fancy fireworks, just for you.

Imatani Kaori: Oh, no, it's quite alright. We always set off the same firework every year. It wouldn't be the same without it. Seeing that firework go off takes us right back to those days. Even at this age, we still look back with not a single regret.

Paimon: Aw, what a great relationship they have...

Imatani Saburou: Enough about us, though. Yoimiya, aren't you busy with the fireworks show coming up? Was there something you needed to discuss?

Yoimiya: Yeah, um... it's a difficult thing to talk about, but here goes...

Yoimiya tells the Imatanis about Sakujirou.

Imatani Saburou: Hmm... Sakujirou... so, he came back.

Yoimiya: Huh? You know him?

Imatani Kaori: He was our boy's best friend when they were young. *sigh* They were inseparable. They grew up together, shared everything with each other, and went everywhere together. But one day, they had a terrible argument...

Sakura: What happened?

Imatani Saburou: Sakujirou seemed to feel that Inazuma was too peaceful, and wanted to see what the outside world was like. But our Keisuke took after his father and mother. He felt that there was nothing wrong at all with being peaceful. You know what children are like, they get terribly worked up about these sorts of things. In the end, Sakujirou stormed off, and that was that.

Foxes: *gasps*.

Yoimiya: I see...

Imatani Saburou: Keisuke said nothing to me or my wife about the fight. We could sense that he was very hurt by it, but he didn't want to talk with us about how he was really feeling. Eventually, whether out of pent-up anger or for some other reason, he joined the Tenryou Commission. He rarely comes home anymore.

Sakura: (Feels like what happened to Akiza from "Yu-Gi-Oh 5Ds when she left her family and joined the Arcadia Movement.)

Imatani Kaori: If it was anything else, I could talk to Keisuke, and I'm sure he'd be willing to help. But since it's Sakujirou... I don't feel there's any way we can get involved.

Paimon: What a strange coincidence. Who'd have thought...

Yoimiya: I understand now. When I asked Sakujirou why he came back, he just said "because of past mistakes" and wasn't willing to elaborate. Now, I finally understand why he can't decide what to do.

Paimon: Two best buddies in childhood... one grows up to join the Tenryou Commission, the other grows up to join the Tenryou Commission's most wanted list...

Aether: I guess this is fate.

Sakura: I never would have imagined it either.

Tamamo: A lot of childhood friends turn against each other.

Yoimiya: Well, no worries, if that's the case then never mind. We can find some other way to help Sakujirou, there's no need to make things difficult for you. This sounds like something for Sakujirou and Keisuke to resolve between themselves.

Imatani Kaori: Yes, it'd be nice if they could go back to the way things were.

Imatani Saburou: I think after all these years, they ought to let go of their grudges.

The group leaves the village.

Yoimiya: *sigh* Well, can't say we didn't try.

Higokumaru: What a backstory that was. Between two childhood friends.

Yoimiya: I'll let Sakujirou know after we get back.

(Naganohara Fireworks)

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Yoimiya, something bad's happened! Some people from the Tenryou Commission came by.

Foxes: *gasps*.

Tamamo: What happened?

Yoimiya: Huh? Why? ... Do they know? Pops, are you alright? They didn't do anything to you, did they?

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: I told them the show was starting soon and the place was filled with fireworks, so they shouldn't go in because it's a fire hazard. But they didn't listen. It seemed like they knew Sakujirou was inside. Luckily, Sakujirou heard them coming in time and managed to escape through the window. The Tenryou Commission wasn't able to capture him.

Yoimiya: This is bad news. I don't think Sakujirou had enough time to make his mind up...

Sakura: We better go find him.

Yoimiya: Pops, did you see where he went? The Tenryou Commission will definitely be chasing after him.

Aether: Did you catch any of their names?

Yoimiya: Good point! Names, we need names! Suddenly showing up like this, surely it must be Keisuke's doing! The Commission wouldn't normally cause this big of a fuss over a stowaway.

Naganohara Ryuunosuke: Sorry, my ears are no good, and I didn't get a good look at them either. If you're wondering which way they went, they left the city. I wish I caught their names... *sigh* But I didn't hear a thing...

Morihiko: As it happens, I did.

Sakura: Let's hear it. Explain everything.

Morihiko: I was getting some ore from my friend's place and happened to bump into them on the way over. I think their leader's name was Keisuke, just like you said.

Yoimiya: Just as I thought! Thanks! If Sakujirou still hasn't made up his mind, those two running into each other won't solve anything — and even worse, there'll be no coming back from it for Sakujirou. We can't let that happen. Come with me, guys, let's track them down!

Sakura: Let's go!

Sakura and Tamamo grabbed hold of the group then they disappear instantly.

On their way they spotted the children.

Yoimiya: It's Matsuzaka and his friends! Let's ask them!

So they approach the children.

Matsuzaka: Hi, Yoimiya! Are the weapons to scare away the Great Mujina Youkai ready yet?

Yoimiya: Oh, Mr. Ryuunosuke is making them right now. You can go collect them from my house later.

Saika: Uh... Aren't you gonna play with us, Yoimiya?

Yoimiya: I'm sorry, I have something important to do right now. I'll be back later on. ...But I'll bring you guys some candy next time! The extra-sweet candy, the one you guys love.

Iwao: Yay-ay! We're gonna get candy, woohoo.

Yoimiya: Also, I wanted to ask you guys something. Did you see a bunch of scary-looking men come by here, at all?

Saika: Yep, we did! It looked like they were chasing someone!

Iwao: Are they trying to catch a monster, too?

Yoimiya: No, don't worry. It's all just a big misunderstanding. Be good kids and stay out of trouble, alright? Stay in the city for now, and I'll come play with you after the fireworks start.

Matsuzaka: We will! We'll be on our best behavior, especially for you, Yoimiya!

Higokumaru: Thanks kids! Let's go!

They run again.

Yoimiya: It looks like this is the right way. Let's keep going! If Sakujirou still hasn't made up his mind, I guess I'll have to step in...

They spot the Tenryou Commission officers.

Yoimiya: Look, there are people from the Tenryou Commission over there! That must be them.

So they approach the officers.

Yoshitaka: Sorry, official business. I can't let you pass.

Yoimiya: Sakujirou and Keisuke are up ahead, right? We need to talk to them about something.

Yoshitaka: Didn't you hear me? You're not getting past.

Sakura summons her sword and holds it up to Yoshitaka's throat.

Sakura: You will. If you wish to live.

Yoshitaka: Never. Now you've done it.

Yoimiya: Ugh, what a nuisance! Well, you've only got yourself to blame!

More officers show up. The group summons their weapons. Sakura cuts Yoshitaka then jumps back. Yoimiya shoots arrows covered with fireworks. Then she jumps into the air with fireworks going off and fires an arrow that exploded into fireworks at the soldiers.

Aether shoots his Electro Shurikans at the officers electrocuting them. Sakura covers her sword with fire and decapitates the officers. Tamamo shoots fire and ice blasts while her mirror floated around her.

Sakura: Great fighting as always, Yoimiya.

Yoimiya: I know! I am great at fighting.

Tamamo: Mikon~

Tamamo defeats another officer.

Sakura and Tamamo: Pyro! Final strike!

Sakura and Tamamo both shoot fire from their hands and finish off the last dog the officers.

Yoshitaka: How dare you impede the work of the Tenryou Commission! You will be punished for your actions! There is nowhere you can escape justice, not even at the edges of the world!

Tamamo: Oh no you don't!

Tamamo casts a spell then knocked Yoshitaka out.

Tamamo: Now he won't make us fugitives. Mikon~

Yoimiya: Look at that — the one with the loudest mouth had the fastest feet.

Higokumaru: And he was so pathetic too! Hahahahahaha!

Yoimiya: We can't waste any more time on these guys. Let's push on, they should be just ahead.

There they were. Sami iron was down while Keisuke was up.

Sakujirou: *panting*... *panting*...

Imatani Keisuke: Your skills with the sword have stagnated, Sakujirou... You should have known that you stood no choice against me in a duel.

Sakujirou: I never imagined I'd fall into your hands. ... If this is to be my fate, I accept it. I have nothing else to say.

Imatani Keisuke: But your return says that you finally came around to my point of view.

Sakujirou: Whatever you say.

Imatani Keisuke: You will return with me to the Tenryou Commission to await your sentencing.

Imatani Keisuke: The one who made this boat will also be punished.

Yoimiya: Wait!

Sakura: Stop!

Tamamo: Hold it!

Higokumaru: Stop right there!

Sakura and Tamamo blocked Keisuke from Sakujirou.

Yoimiya: It doesn't have to end like this! Don't you have anything else to say to one another!?

Imatani Keisuke: Hey, I know you. You're Naganohara's girl, who makes the fireworks... Huh. I know you like to get involved in other people's business, but stay out of this. It does not concern you.

Sakura: It is now.

Sakujirou: It's okay, Yoimiya. Sakura. The past is the past.

Yoimiya: Then why did you risk life and limb to get yourself back into Inazuma!? And why were you so reluctant to leave after you got here!? I'll tell you why, this is why! This is the chance you've been waiting for, to talk everything through!

Imatani Keisuke: I have nothing to say to him. He's a criminal, I work for the Tenryou Commission. There was never any room for discussion. Out of respect for the friendship we once had, I gave him a chance to fight for his freedom. But his skills with the sword are as disappointing now as they ever were.

Yoimiya: What are you talking about? And just who do you think you're kidding!? You left all your subordinates back there to guard the road, making sure no one else followed you here. Seems to me like you were hoping for a chance to talk. I can see it in your faces. You both have so much to say... And you're just gonna choose to keep it all inside?

Imatani Keisuke: ...

Sakura: You just can't keep it all inside.

Imatani Keisuke: Don't flatter yourselves. What would you know?

Sakujirou: Yoimiya, Sakura, leave it. It was just my wishful thinking.

Yoimiya: No, We won't leave it! I will not stand by and watch when you haven't even done anything!

Sakura: And we can't stand by and do nothing!

Yoimiya: Keisuke, you seem to like settling things with a duel. So let's do it your way! I challenge you to a duel! If I win, then you need to say everything that's in your heart. No more running from your feelings! And the same goes for you, Sakujirou! If I win, you will tell Keisuke exactly why you came back. No matter what the consequences are. You have to tell him everything! If you don't say anything now, you may never have another chance!

Imatani Keisuke: And if you lose?

Yoimiya: Then I'll admit to collaborating with Sakujirou and accept the Tenryou Commission's punishment!

Sakujirou: Yoimiya...

Imatani Keisuke: I accept. Let's settle this with a duel.

At the start of the duel, Yoshitaka shows up with more officers.

Yoshitaka: Sir, we're here to back you up!

Paimon: Backup!? Duels are supposed to be one on one!

Tamamo: Now they're just breaking the rules.

Paimon: Alright, that's it, let's help Yoimiya! We can't let her fight them all alone!

Foxes and Aether: Yeah!

The group comes to Yoimiya's side then they summon their weapons. Then they charge in. Yoimiya took on Keisuke, Sakura took on Yoshitaka, while the others took on the other soldiers. In the end, the group defeated Keisuke and his soldiers.

Yoshitaka: Sir, they are too strong. We need more men...

Imatani Keisuke: Stand down.

Yoshitaka: Wh—What?

Imatani Keisuke: I thought I told you to stay away! Now, stand down!

Yoshitaka: Y—Yes, Sir... Sorry!

Yoshitaka leaves in a panic.

Imatani Keisuke: Young lady, you are just as obstinate as Sakujirou was back then.

Imatani Keisuke: Why were you so convinced that we had things to say to each other?

Yoimiya: Because... Sakujirou may not have told me about you when he came back, but he did order a firework from me. Then, your parents told me what happened between you when you were younger. Once I'd heard the story, I realized that the firework meant something special to you both. And that's why I simply refuse to believe that you have nothing to say to each other! Nobody sets off a firework to feel lonely, do they...

Imatani Keisuke: ...

Sakujirou: The reason I came back is that... I felt lost.

Sakura: You felt lost?

Sakujirou: It wasn't that I'd changed my mind, I just felt that what I'd done in the past was to try to escape from reality. I saw the freedom of Mondstadt, the contracts of Liyue, the wisdom of Sumeru, and the justice of Fontaine... It all left a deep impression on me. I was glad that I'd left Inazuma. But then I happened to hear about the Sakoku Decree. I was an escapee, and I was proud of that. But really, what I should have tried to do is take the good things from the outside world and bring them back home.

Imatani Keisuke: So that's why you came back? Out of your naive hope of changing the way things are here?

Sakujirou: No, I let go of those delusions of grandeur. I just felt that... I never should have run away like that... After all, you never ran away.

Imatani Keisuke: ...!

Sakujirou: I don't know about you, but life hasn't been easy for me. But I just had to come back and visit. It was like fate was calling me, and I couldn't ignore it any longer.

Imatani Keisuke: ...Life isn't easy for anyone. I truly worship the Raiden Shogun. Her ideas are my personal creed, and I desire nothing more than to see her will done. But now, my role is to punish violators of the Sakoku Decree and confiscate people's Visions. It's not what I signed up for when I joined the Tenryou Commission...

Imatani Keisuke: I do wonder... Am I really doing the right thing? ...

Sakujirou: ...

Imatani Keisuke: The boat is yours.

Sakujirou: Huh?

Imatani Keisuke: I couldn't make you stay in Inazuma, but that doesn't mean I want to keep you here by force.

Sakujirou: What will you say to the higher-ups?

Tamamo: They could punish you.

Imatani Keisuke: Don't worry about that. I'll handle it. If you wanna come back, I hear that the process of returning to Inazuma from the outside world is long and complicated. But it can be done. I will lend you my help. But until then, wait for me out there. ...And don't kick the bucket on the way out.

Sakura: The storm is not easy to get through.

Tamamo: Hou better hope that you have enough luck to get past the storm.

Sakujirou: Don't worry, Keisuke. Any chance we could watch the fireworks together?
Imatani Keisuke: Mm. Maybe next time.

Sakujirou's boat departs in inscrutable silence...

Imatani Keisuke: *sigh* I'll be demoted for sure...

Sakura: You May be demoted but you did the right thing. You chose friendship over your duties.

Imatani Keisuke: It's not like me to give in to childish sentiment like this. I can't explain why I went through with it.

Aether: That boat...

Imatani Keisuke: It's the one that Sakujirou planned on using for his escape. I asked Yoshitaka and the others to transport it here, citing the Temporary Contraband Storage clause. Forcing Sakujirou to this spot was also something I had planned all along. It's just like you said, Yoimiya. Even thought I hadn't fully made up my mind, my actions betrayed my intent...

Yoimiya: But I think you did the right thing. And look, now you've managed to resolve the grievance in your heart by talking about it.

Imatani Keisuke: I understand now, thank you. I didn't know you were quite so perceptive — you saw right into what I was thinking.

Yoimiya: Hehe, that's only because I know your parents so well. They're both really nice people, so I didn't think the apple would fall too far from the tree.

Imatani Keisuke: I had heard that there was a new Naganohara running things these days. A little loud and reckless, maybe but... You live up to the family name. By the way, Naganohara Fireworks can reproduce the firework that the two of us set off back then, right Would you be able to make one for me?

Yoimiya: Sorry, no can do. Without the slip for reference, I can't make the same one again, and I'm afraid Sakujirou is the one with the slip.

Imatani Keisuke: Ah, I see... Never mind, then.

Yoimiya: Hehe, don't get too down just yet, though — I mentioned that Sakujirou ordered a firework from me, didn't I? I can't make another one, but I'm guessing Sakujirou probably won't be needing his anymore... It'd be a shame for it to go to waste, so I'll make an exception and let you set it off instead.

Imatani Keisuke: ...Thank you very much.

Yoimiya: No worries. And don't miss out on the start of the fireworks show.

Imatani Keisuke also leaves.

Paimon: Yoimiya, the way you took command of that whole situation was amazing!

Yoimiya: What can I say — I like to talk. I'm a strong believer in the power of words. If you're not willing to communicate, then the problem just sits there. If you just keep staring at it without doing anything, eventually you'll watch every last opportunity to resolve it slip away before your eyes. Sakujirou and Keisuke can't turn back the clock in their relationship, but... that's no reason to live with remorse. Anyway, follow me. I'll bring you to the perfect place to watch the fireworks. My pops will set off the firework that I wanted to give to you.

The group goes to the spot to watch the fireworks as it became night.

Sakujirou paddles away in his small boat. There is a flash of light and he turns around to see a firework display.

Sakujirou: It's...!

A familiar firework sets off.

Sakujirou: Keisuke...

He begins to weep.

The group watches the fireworks from Amakane Island.

Sakura: It's beautiful. Just like back home.

Tamamo: They're really the fireworks of ancient times.

Higokumaru: Fireworks...

Paimon: So, Yoimiya. These fireworks, what do they mean to you?

Yoimiya is captivated by the show and does not respond.
Paimon: Yoimiya?

Aether shushes Paimon.

Sakura: Let's not disturb her.

Paimon nods.

Higokumaru: I hope the others are watching.

And they were.

Patrick and the St. Freya Valkyries we're watching the fireworks with Kongming.

Patrick: Just look at the rockets exploding into fireworks. My favorite type of firework.

Kongming: This feels like home with the fireworks.

Kiana: And like our Chinese New Year party after competing with food.

Captain: Great memories.

Mei: What a show.

Even Durandal and Rita were watching. And so we're the servants and ELFs.

Durandal: Great fireworks show.

Rita: It sure is.

Even other Anime characters were watching the fireworks from separate locations. Tanjiro was watching the fireworks with Nezuko, Inuyasha was watching them with Kagome, Saber was watching them with Shirou, the CPUs, the CPU Candidates, Asuka, Homura, Yumi, Miyabi, and many others.

The camera switched back to the sky with fireworks still going off. Then Neptune appears from a circle.

Neptune: Finally another appearance!

Then Tanjiro.

Tanjiro: After being in that Monty Python reference we're finally getting an appearance.

And Inuyasha.

Inuyasha: Finally!

Even Asuka: It's great that we're having appearances but we better let the FanFiction get back to the point. And Neptune, our crossover game is coming and we better be ready.

Neptune: Oh! Right! We better go!

Then Saber appeared.

Saber: Everyone, we better go.

Then the characters in the circles disappeared.

The fireworks blossom profusely in the skies over Inazuma City. Sakujirou, rowing his small boat alone, cannot help but weep as his gaze chances upon a familiar fire-flower. The instigator of this affair, Yoimiya, ever the chatterbox on the road here, is uncharacteristically silent, observing the fleeting panorama of beauty thoughtfully.

Yoimiya: Ahh, that was amazing. It was so beautiful I could weep. Uh, I didn't actually cry, though, right? I just feel a bit misty-eyed.

Aether: It was very pretty.

Sakura: Once again, the Naganoharas live up to their name.

Sakura: I hope the others saw it.

Higokumaru: I'm sure that they did.

Yoimiya: Oh, remember that big one that went up first? The gold one? That's the one I had pops make for you.

Paimon: Oh, Paimon saw it! It was one of the best ones, they won't forget that any time soon!

Higokumaru: It was really big!

Yoimiya: Haha, that's what I wanted to hear. I was hoping it would leave a deep impression on you guys.

Tamamo: It did. Mikon~

Yoimiya: No matter where your journey takes you, and no matter what hardships might lie ahead, I hope you'll always be able to look back fondly on the fireworks you saw tonight. I believe that as time goes by, this firework will only grow brighter and more beautiful in your heart. Oh, and also, you're technically my customers now. Here, these are your paper slips. If you ever wanna see that golden firework again, just come and see me.

Aether: Thank you for the firework.

Sakura: Thank you for your kindness.

Paimon: You know, Yoimiya, you seemed to turn into a completely different person during the fireworks. You were so quiet, and it was like you couldn't hear anything it all.

Yoimiya: Oh, I could hear you. I just have a habit of being silent while I'm watching fireworks. Quietly watching something you made with your own hands rise into the sky, it feels like a sacred ceremony to me. You asked me what fireworks mean to me, right?

Paimon: Yup! Well, for Kouichi, who built that boat for us, and his friend, Third Sis, fireworks commemorate friendship. For Keisuke's parents, they commemorate marriage. And for Keisuke and Sakujirou, they were commemorating... hmm.

Aether: Unwavering beliefs, right?

Paimon: Oh yeah, right! Beliefs!

Yoimiya: As for me... Hehe, to be honest, even though I've thought about it countless times before, I still haven't found an answer.

Paimon: Seriously? Huh... Paimon was expecting something deep and philosophical.

Yoimiya: Well, no one has ever asked me this before, so I've never really settled on an answer. It was by chance that I happened to be born into the Naganohara family, so it was by chance that I ended up learning this craft from my pops. It's also by chance that I've met so many people, learned so many things, and discovered that people associate watching fireworks with the things that are most precious to them. Fireworks that disappear in a flash of light are probably the furthest thing away from the eternity that our Shogun desires. But people's feelings don't just disappear, and it's those feelings that give fireworks their purpose. If nobody wanted to watch fireworks, then they wouldn't exist.

Aether: That's another kind of eternity.

Yoimiya: Also, consider this: You have to have the Naganoharas, because so many people are emotionally invested in the existence of fireworks.

Tamamo: Are they really?

Yoimiya: If we didn't exist, their wishes would go unfulfilled, wouldn't they? You know, Aether, I don't really think about complicated things like this very often... But I'm proud that I was born into the Naganohara family, and have the chance to make so many pretty fireworks.

Sakura: We should go now.

Yoimiya: I think I'll stay here for a bit longer. The show is still not quite over in my heart. Oh, but if you wanted to chat, I'll happily oblige.

Aether: What do you want to do afterward?

Yoimiya: Matsuzaka and the others are still waiting for me so we can go hunt down the Great Mujina Youkai. I'm like a big sister to them, so I can't go back on my word. Also, I want to go and ask everyone what they thought of the fireworks. And over the next few days, I'd also like to thank everyone for their support. That includes you and Paimon, too, of course.

Aether: Are fireworks expensive?

Yoimiya: For you guys... I'll do it for free!

Higokumaru: REALLY?!

Yoimiya: I did kind of force it on you, after all. Not to mention that I dragged you along with me and gave you all sorts of trouble along the way. Hehe, I'd feel bad if I charged you any Mora.

Aether: Are you sure? I feel bad...

Yoimiya: It's fine. ...Look, how about we make a deal: After you find your sister, tell her to come to Naganohara Fireworks for all her fireworks needs. That way, I'll get another customer. Sound fair?

Sakura: Fair.

Yoimiya: Also, it'd be nice to meet her.

Aether: What if the Tenryou Commission causes you more trouble...

Yoimiya: I'll kick their butts again!

Sakura: Us too.

Yoimiya: Hahaha, I'm joking. Didn't I tell you that my family deal with the Commissions quite a bit? We have an easy enough time of it. At the worst, we'd have to apologize, smile, and pay a fine. It wouldn't be the end of the world. You guys should be careful, though. Without the same connections, you can't afford to be as reckless as me, hee-hee.

Sakura: We will be careful.

(Sakura's Teapot)

Sakura was on top of the roof of her Shrine looking up at the moon.

Sakura: Soon we will be up against the Raiden Shogun.