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Chapter Text

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

"Rika..."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Yes. Her real name is Miyoko Tanashi."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"I already have!"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"It's our family way after all."

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

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

Chapter Text

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

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

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

---

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

"Mother...Father..."

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter Text

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

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

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

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

"Mmm..."

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

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

"Thank you, papa..."

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

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

"Can you eat?"

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

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

---

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

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

"Okay, mama."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Guess I can't argue there."

Chapter Text

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

"The united states."

"America? How come?"

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

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

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

"Famicom?"

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

"I see..."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rika sighed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chapter Text

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

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

"What do you mean, papa?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Hanyuu!? You know her!?"

"Please, control yourself."

"Oh. Right. My apologies."

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

"A parasite you say? Hmm..."

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

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

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

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

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

"I understand. What do you need."

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Yes."

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

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

"Well, that's a relief."

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

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

"That's the idea."

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

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

"Would I be much of a man otherwise?"

"Father..."

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

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

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

---

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Eleven come August."

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

"Very well. That'll be fine."

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

"Yes. Thank you very much."

"Pleasant travels!"

"Likewise."

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

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

Chapter Text

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

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

"How so?"

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

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

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

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

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

"Thank you."

---

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

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

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

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

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

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

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