#LanzShio

[ryqoshay]

Putting on Hairs - Post Production: The Creature

Primary Pairing: LanzShio Rating: T Words: ~2.2k AU: Vampires Time Frame: Sometime before the main story and quite a while after the prior chapter Content Warning: Vampire stuff, and thus many mentions of blood. And implied minor character death

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Author’s Note: I’m still sorry, Shioriko, but now also to Kaoruko...

Summary: A creature seeks blood...

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Something caused the creature to wake up. A sound? The creature opened its eyes. There it was again. Yes. A strange sound. But one the creature had heard before. Maybe? Its mind struggled to remember.

Ba… battle? S… ord… sword? Swords? Blades. Metal cutting into… into… flesh…

… blood…

An unbearable Thirst tore through the creature’s body and mind.

Blood…

The creature pushed itself up to its knees. It stared out of its cave. The world outside was barely any brighter than inside.

No light. Safe…

The creature crawled out of its home.

New sounds could be heard now. Voices? P… people?

Blood!

No… Animals only. No hum…

Blood!

The Thirst could not be ignored.

The creature stood and moved toward the sounds and smells of fighting. The sounds eventually stopped as the fighting ended. But the smell of blood remained.

There. Several humans were gathered around, talking softly as they studied the enemies they had defeated.

The creature hid behind a nearby tree to watch.

Blood!

No. Wait… Wait for the humans to leave.

Blood!

The creature clenched its jaw and dug its nails into the bark as though to hold itself back from charging.

Blood!

Yes. Blood was dripping down the creature’s chin with how hard its fangs pressed into its lips. But the creature’s own blood would not stop the Thirst. It had tried that so… so long ago, and had failed. Only fresh blood could make the Thirst go away for a while, not the cursed blood that was inside the creature.

Blood!

Please… please leave… The creature silently begged the humans as it stared longingly at the slayed beasts at their feet. If they stayed too long, the blood would not be fresh enough to make the Thirst go away.

Pain. Bad pain.

The creature wailed.

“Thought you could sneak up on us, eh?” A voice from behind. “Foul beast!”

The creature screamed and clawed at the blade in its chest.

Get away! Run!

The creature did not want to fight a human. This was why it had hidden itself. But it had been found anyway. And now it needed to get away.

The blade was pulled out, but immediately came down again.

“Stay thy blade!” Another voice. Loud. Angry.

“But…” The first voice started.

“Cease your attack. That is an order.”

A person came into the creature’s view. Pink hair. Blue eyes.

“Shioriko?” The person asked.

Shio… ri… ko?

Old memories moved in the creature’s mind. Name… Was that the creature’s name?

“You know this wretched thing?” Another voice asked.

“Perhaps.” The person with pink hair reached forward and placed her hands on the creature’s face.

So close… Blood… The creature knew it could easily turn its head and bite. It wanted to. It needed to. The Thirst demanded it to drink.

No. Not a person. Not a human. Animals only. I… I promised Nee-san…

The woman’s fingers were on the creature’s lips, pulling them back. It would be so easy…

“Vampire…” the woman clicked her tongue. “So that’s what happened to you. I’m sorry, Shioriko.”

The creature nearly collapsed from the effort it was taking to resist the Thirst. But the woman with pink hair caught the creature and held it up gently.

“Captain, this abomination must be destroyed.” The first voice insisted. “Certainly, many monsters can be trusted and can coexist with humans. But not vampires. They are a scourge, a plague upon the living.”

“No.” The pink haired woman, Captain?, insisted. “Not this one. She has not fed in months, possibly years.” A soft glow came from the woman’s hands. “I cannot detect anything that would indicate she has consumed human blood in centuries, if ever.”

“She’s still just a vampire…”

“She’s not just a vampire. She is different. Not once has she tried to bite me, even with the opportunities I have allowed. There is still Good within her.”

“She probably knows your blood would kill her.”

“Would it?”

“Of course. Vampires a vulnerable to Holy.”

“True. But she had an affinity for Holy when she was mortal. That might protect her.”

“Hrm…”

“Also, my blood has always had a purifying effect. It could very well cure her.”

“There is no cure for vampirism. That is why they must be exterminated.”

“I will not let harm befall this one. She is my friend.”

… friend…?

“My first friend.” Captain continued. “My precious friend I thought I had lost all those years ago.” She took a breath. “I will not lose her again.” She pulled the creature into an embrace.

Captain was slightly taller than the creature, which lead to the creature’s chin impacting her shoulder. This left her neck fully exposed, and the creature had to clench its jaw again to resist the Thirst.

“You can’t be serious.”

“I am.”

“Captain…”

“Protecting a vampire.” One of the other individuals spoke up. “You could be excommunicated from the Hunters.”

“Perhaps.” Captain replied.

“You could be hunted, just like her.”

“Then I shall take her to Seinaru Mori.”

“The Sacred Forest?” The first voice spoke again.

“Yes. Monsters can be safe there. Hunters are forbidden from killing them there.”

“But would they accept a vampire?”

“They will if I vouch for her. She will not be a threat to them. I will see to that.”

“How will you deal with her thirst for blood?”

“We’ll figure it out.”

“You sound so certain…”

“I am.”

The other two sighed.

“You’re really going to break your vow to protect people from monsters, for the sake of a vampire.” The first one spoke after a moment of silence.

“No.” Captain responded. “I will still be protecting people, just in a different way.”

“Others may not see it that way.” The second one said.

“I know. Consider this my final order. Return to camp. Report this incident as you see fit.”

“Aye.” The first voice replied.

“It’s been an honor serving under you, Captain.” The second said.

“As for you.” The first voice said as the woman it belonged to approached the creature, finally allowing it to see her. “You had better behave yourself. If you harm the Captain, we will find out about it. And we will hunt you down.”

The creature wasn’t sure how to reply, so it just nodded.

“Take care of yourselves.” Captain said.

With that, the others left, leaving just Captain and the creature.

“Shioriko.”

That… name again.

Captain released the creature from her embrace, but continued to support her, so the two could see each other better.

“Do you remember me?”

The creature searched its memory.

“La…” The creature rasped. “Lan… zhu?”

Cap… No, Lanzhu smiled. “You do remember. I’m so happy.” She moved as though to pull the creature back into a hug but stopped. “Wait no, you need to drink.” She pulled a dagger from her belt. “Can you stand on your own for a moment?”

The creature wobbled a little when Lanzhu released it, but otherwise managed not to fall. Lanzhu then pressed the tip of her dagger to her finger and held it out.

Blood!

“Here. Just a little for now. Let’s see how you react.”

A drop landed on the creature’s tongue.

Blood!

The effect was immediate. The crea… No… Shioriko’s vision cleared. The haze in her mind began to lift. She straightened her posture and took a deep breath as though she hadn’t breathed in years.

Lanzhu leaned in for inspection. “Did that work? You’re not going to die on me again, are you? I don’t think I could bear losing you again.”

“More.” Shioriko said. Was that her voice? She hadn’t heard it that clearly in… in… she couldn’t remember how long. “Please.”

“Of course.” Lanzhu pulled her collar open.

Shioriko practically lunged forward. She opened her mouth and… “No.” She pulled back. “I can’t. I promised Nee-san I wouldn’t drink human blood.”

“Lanzhu is an angel, remember?”

That’s right. Of course. How could she forget?

“Drink as much as you need.” Lanzhu insisted. “I can recover whatever is lost.”

Shioriko let herself finally give in to the Thirst. Lanzhu let out a soft gasp as fangs pierced the skin of her neck. And Shioriko drank.

And drank.

And drank.

And it was glorious.

Shioriko could feel power coursing through her. The wounds she had just received healed in moments. The fatigue that had weighed upon her for untold decades was gone. She felt like she could fly, or at least leap high into the sky.

Memories flooded back to her. Meeting Lanzhu. Training as a Hunter. Years spent as a member of Lanzhu’s squad. Discovering her affinity for Holy. Friends she made in that camp. Kaoruko being reassigned. Being reassigned herself. The aftermath of the siege. Being turned into a vampire. Kaoruko fleeing with her. Kaoruko training her to live as a vampire. Her promise to her sister. And then…

“Nee-san.” Shioriko uttered, pulling back again.

“Lanzhu.” Lanzhu pointed to herself as though correcting a misidentification.

Shioriko shook her head. “Sorry, no. I just remembered… something unpleasant.” Very, very unpleasant, she added silently.

“You’re drooling.” Lanzhu produced a handkerchief and wiped Shioriko’s mouth, then her own neck. “Do you need more?”

“I believe I am good. Thank you, Lanzhu.”

“No problem.” Lanzhu smiled. “Now, we should get going. We’re a long way from a port where I can secure passage for us to Japan. I wouldn’t expect my former squad to lie for me in this situation, so we may have pursuers at some point. And while I can out fly anyone on foot, if my parents are the ones to come after us…” She pursed her lips in thought. “Now, where is your coffin?”

“Coffin?”

“Where you sleep. We’ll need it in order for you to cross the ocean.”

“We will?”

Lanzhu furrowed her brow. “Shioriko, I thought you were the monster expert between us. And you are one now! Why does Lanzhu know more about vampires than Shioriko who is one?”

“I… don’t know.” Shioriko admitted. “I do not recall vampires being written about in any of the books I read. But in any case, I’ve slept in a cave for… as long as I can remember. I never had a coffin.”

“Do you at least have some of your gravesoil in that cave of yours?”

Shioriko shook her head. “I was never buried.”

“Ehhh?” Lanzhu’s shoulders slumped. “Well how are we going to get you across the sea then?”

“Perhaps we could try burying me?”

Lanzhu sighed. “We’ll have to procure some shovels along the way then. And digging a grave is going to delay us. So let’s go. I know a village I can reach before daybreak.” She stooped and slid one arm behind Shioriko’s back and the other under her knees.

“Wha? Wait. Lanzhu…” Shioriko protested as she found herself being cradled in Lanzhu’s arms.

Lanzhu shrugged her shoulders to summon her wings. A moment later, the two women were soaring above the trees. Shioriko wrapped her arms around Lanzhu’s neck for fear of falling.

“By the way, in case you didn’t hear earlier, we’re going to Seinaru Mori, at the base of Mt. Fuji, in your home country.” Lanzhu explained, not seeming to notice Shioriko’s unease. “Good timing, as they just reopened a few years ago.”

“Reopened?”

Lanzhu nodded. “Japan closed itself off for over a century.”

Century… Shioriko knew it had been a long time since she had been turned, but…

“What… What year is it?”

“1873, according to the calendars the Hunters use.”

“Eighteen…”

“1873.” Lanzhu repeated. “Lanzhu wasn’t able to see Shioriko for over three hundred years.”

“I… I didn’t know. I don’t remember that much time passing.”

“When we get to Seinaru Mori, Lanzhu will find lots of books for you to read so you can catch up.”

Despite the shock of missing several centuries, Shioriko couldn’t help a small smile. All this time, and Lanzhu hadn’t changed a bit. She was still arrogant, strong-willed, and seemingly narcissistic, and yet willing to do absolutely anything for those she cared about most. Even a friend she hadn’t seen in over three hundred years…

Something tightened in Shioriko’s chest. It was a strange sensation. Was it a side effect of drinking Lanzhu’s blood and regaining some semblance of her old self?

“Shioriko?” Lanzhu finally looked down at the woman she was carrying.

“Sorry, I was just thinking about how much I missed you.”

“I missed you too! I promised I would find you again someday.”

“Yes. You did promise that. And you came through. Thank you again, Lanzhu.”

The radiance of Lanzhu’s smile rivaled the sun itself. And with that mental comparison, Shioriko amused herself with the realization that as a vampire, she was now weak to both. But that was alright.

Everything ended up alright when she was with Lanzhu. As chaotic and frustrating as things often became due to Lanzhu’s antics, it always ended up alright. That much was certain. And it was likely the only certain thing Shioriko knew at the moment, and so she clung to that thought just as she physically clung to Lanzhu’s neck.

For the first time in… well, centuries, Shioriko let herself relax as the two immortals flew through the night sky.

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Author’s Note Continued: I’ve tried different ways to narrate things before, but I must admit, this one was one of the most challenging. I wanted to dumb down the language a bit while writing from the creature’s perspective. And holy hanna did I forget how much I like flowery language, fancy words, fun synonyms for alliteration and all other manner of debatably necessary flourishes. I cannot tell you how many times I rewrote what eventually became “Pain. Bad Pain.” because I kept thinking it was overly complicated for a simple-minded creature. So yeah, if the first part of this chapter feels off compared to my usual style, that’s why.

It is for the same reason that I start referring to Lanzhu as Captain. Shioriko, as the creature, hasn’t recalled her actual name yet and thinks Captain is her name, not her rank.

Also, fun history geek research stuff, I chose for the first three chapters of this arc to take place in the mid 1500’s for two reasons.

First, it was well before the Sankoku period in Japan, where they isolated themselves from the rest of the world for over a century. I’ve established for the purposes of this AU as this being a time where many monsters began integrating into human society, mostly by means of interbreeding and allowing future generations to take human form.

And second, it is less than a century after the reign of Vlad the Impaler. I figure this is enough time for a handful of vampires to spread far enough East to reach China, but not necessarily Japan. And likely not enough time for the monster type to be well known in those areas. I loved the idea of Lanzhu knowing more about vampires than Shioriko, who was one. And three hundred years is plenty of time for more vampires to reach the area, and local Hunters, such as Lanzhu, to learn about them. All while Shioriko languishes in isolation.

And finally, no, Shioriko does not know at this point in time that vampires can fly. I may write a scene about her learning to do so at some point. As I mentioned above, I really like the idea of Shioriko not knowing about what she is and needing to learn. It gives me a lot to play around with and write later.

So there we have it, the main events of Shioriko’s backstory about how she became a vampire in this AU. I do still have a bit of an epilogue I’d like to write soon. And I definitely want to write more about the exploits of Lanzhu’s Hunter squad, especially when it included Shioriko. Although I may very well write some stuff about her squad without Shioriko as a way to explore her backstory as an angel born in Heaven, but living on Earth.

[ryqoshay]

Putting on Hairs: Post Production - Angelic Intervention

Primary Pairing: LanzShio Words: 504 Rating: G? AU: Angels, Vampires Time Frame: Long before the main story Prompt: Salvation

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Author's Note: Primary entry for the 21st

Summary: Shioriko and Lanzhu meet one last obstacle in their attempts to flee the mainland and travel to Japan

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“Lanzhu.”

Damn… Shioriko knew that voice.

“Mother.” Lanzhu replied.

She looked up. Sure enough, there was Mrs. Zhong, in all her angelic glory. White wings spread wide, brilliant, silver-lined robes flowing, and halo pulsing with Holy power. She had to look away after a moment as the divine spectacle was starting to hurt.

But they were in the middle of a bustling port! Surely, as a Hunter, she would know better than to reveal her nature in such a public place.

It was then that Shioriko noticed nobody else was moving. The angelic matriarch had miracled a stoppage of time.

“So, the reports are true.” Her eyes looked more mournful than angry. “You are protecting a vampire.”

“You know why.”

“I do.” Lanzhu’s mother then turned her attention to Shioriko. “You have my sincerest condolences in regards to your condition. It has been written that those afflicted by the unholy curse shall be denied salvation and forbidden entry through the gates of Heaven.”

“I am not taking Shioriko to heaven.” Lanzhu stated firmly.

“I know.” Her mother confirmed. “Orders have also been given to purge the vampiric plague from these lands.”

“I am removing her from these lands.”

“Orders are to purge all human lands of…”

“I am taking Shioriko to Seinaru Mori. Humans have no power there.”

“You continue to defy…”

“Are they His orders?” Lanzhu’s tone hardened.

“No.”

“Then I will defy them. I am no longer a Hunter and am under no duty to oblige.”

Mother and daughter stared at one another. Shioriko was not privy to the unspoken debate that continued between them, but the intensity of their auras radiated raw Holy energy that began to physically repel her.

“Shioriko!” Lanzhu cried, noticing the effect they were having on the unholy creature in their presence.

Lanzhu put herself between her mother and Shioriko, pulling the latter into an embrace and turning her back on the former.

“I see.” Lanzhu’s mother spoke after a long moment. “I shall pray this does not result in you falling.”

Lanzhu and Shioriko tensed as Mrs. Zhong suddenly appeared at their side. But then she stepped forward and put her arms around both of them.

“Take care of yourselves. Both of you.” She said softly. “I doubt we shall see each again.”

“Thank you, Mother.” Lanzhu’s voice cracked a little. “Goodbye.”

Suddenly, the other angel was gone and the mortals around the port resumed their activities. Time had been restarted. It was only then that Shioriko realized she had not had a chance to say a word through the entire encounter.

“Let’s go, Shioriko.” Lanzhu’s voice continued to waver as she took the vampire’s hand and led her onto the ship that would carry them across the sea to Japan.

Shioriko clenched her jaw and nearly bit her lip as she racked her mind for ways to comfort her best friend, and now savior. She prayed… in a way… that there would come a day when she could find a way to repay such kindness.

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Author's Note Continued: I struggled finding time to write this one as it was the first day of my vacation. Kinda sad that I have been unable to get in bonus entries these last several days, but finding somewhere to break out my laptop to post them here and over on AO3 - I dislike trying to do so via my tablet or phone - has been even more of a challenge. As such, I'm posting a bit of a batch tonight. Probably won't get to my goal of 64'ish entries before the end of the month, but that's fine. I'd be more happy if I can at least continue my self challenge of using both prior year's prompts, preferably in my primary entry.

And as for those prior entries, Raw was from '21 and Order was '22.

I'll definitely want to come back to this one as I believe it can hold more world building, as well as maybe allowing Shioriko a line or two instead of just being a silent observer.

[ryqoshay]

Putting on Hairs - Post Production: Holy Shio

Primary Pairing: Shioriko & Lanzhu Rating: T Words: ~1.9k AU: Angels, Cryptids, Monsters, and mention of other supernatural beings Time Frame: Sometime before the main story and several years after the prior chapter Content Warning: Mentions of blood

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Author’s Note: Jumping ahead a few years to focus on the main points of this background arc.

Summary: Lanzhu’s squad hunts a Qiongqi

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Shioriko held up her hand and silently signaled the others to stop. She then stooped to examine a thorny shrub. Carefully, she retrieved a tuft of fur and held it up for the squad leader to see. Finally, she pointed in the direction she believed the beast to have passed.

Lanzhu nodded before silently ordering her squad to move the way Shioriko had indicated.

As the four Hunters began to move again, Shioriko held the tuft of fur against a small artifact she carried. She was already quite certain the hairs were from the Qiongqi they were tracking, but it was prudent to check anyway. There were normal, non-supernatural tigers in the area after all, and the village that had called for the Hunters’ aid was well enough equipped to deal with them. It was best not to waste time chasing the mundane when the mythical was what posed the real danger.

Sure enough, the artifact glowed softly in response to the aura given off by the fur. Perfect. Shioriko thought to herself as she clipped the device back onto her belt and slipped the tuft into a specimen pouch for possible use by an alchemist back at camp.

As she continued walking with the others, Shioriko began to feel slightly ill at ease. Something was ahead, but it was different from that which she usually detected. Something new, something she hadn’t encountered before.

It was this aura detection ability that was one of the main reasons she began being assigned to Hunter squads, despite not being anywhere near the best fighter in the camp. If anything, her offensive capabilities were among the lowest; it didn’t help that she was merely human, and still the youngest on site, even after several years. However, she was still highly sought after for hunting parties as her tracking skills were top notch, and her knowledge of monsters, cryptids and other supernatural beings was nigh encyclopedic. And while she did not specialize in alchemy, she knew enough of the basics to make potions and salves in the field.

Of course, despite many invitations to join various squads, Lanzhu was adamant that her best friend would remain with her in her squad. And being the daughter of those running the camp, it was no surprise she got her way, but that didn’t stop the invites from coming. Still, Shioriko saw little reason to accept the other offers as she had come to enjoy working with Lanzhu, even if the angel’s brash bullheadedness could be taxing at times.

Movement caught Shioriko’s attention as Agnes indicated a lake the group was approaching. Shioriko quickly realized that the lake itself was the source of the strange aura and motioned back to Agnes to discourage her from drinking. Lanzhu signed for all of them to fill their canteens and that she would address the tainted water.

Lanzhu pulled a dagger from her belt and pricked the end of her finger. She then held it out toward Agnes who had eagerly filled her canteen already. Once a single drop was added, Lanzhu uttered an ancient Angelic phrase, and in a flash of Holy light, the water was purified.

As Agnes quickly drained her canteen and returned to the water’s edge to refill, Shioriko considered the woman’s ravenous appetite. She couldn’t help wondering if Agnes would pull out some rations to eat as well during this impromptu break.

From what Shioriko had learned, Agnes hailed from somewhere in Europe where she had purportedly been of noble birth. However, she had been exiled when it was suspected she was a changeling swapped out by local fay in an attempt to influence the leadership of the area. And while her aura appeared mostly human, individuals like Shioriko could indeed detect something otherworldly that had been well hidden within her being. Agnes had joined the Hunters in her homeland in an attempt to prevent others from suffering a similar fate, but how she ended up this far East remained a mystery to Shioriko.

Then there was Baimen, an older woman who was the only survivor of a small village in some western region of the empire. She joined the Hunters to exact revenge on the monsters that attacked her home and ended up staying on after. Her bloodline had delved the depths of Buddhism and had unlocked the use of their third eye, gaining preternatural sight. She used this sight to assist in reconnaissance as well as wielding an enchanted arquebus to engage enemies at distances far greater than any archer Shioriko knew.

As Shioriko patiently waited her turn to have her canteen purified behind Baimen, a startled cry from Agnes caught everyone’s attention. They turned to see their fellow Hunter being driven aloft by what looked like the cross between a dragon and an overgrown toad. Agnes grunted as her body struck a tree before falling to its base. The creature roared and prepared to charge the downed woman.

Shioriko was about to move toward her friend when she felt a hand on her shoulder.

“Stay back, my child.” Baimen said gently. “Agnes is tougher than she looks. And there’s no way horns like that managed to pierce her hellhound leather.”

Lanzhu scoffed. “Don’t worry, I’ve got this.”

With a shrug of her shoulders, Lanzhu summoned her wings. She then smirked before surging forward to deliver a punishing blow to the creature.

Agnes grunted as she shoved herself up to her hands and knees. Then, with a curse that Shioriko assumed was in English, she got back on her feet. “You think I’ll let you have all the fun, Lanzhu?” She grinned as she drew her sword.

“Better hurry up before Lanzhu defeats this beast by herself.” Lanzhu laughed in response.

The two began what could very easily be described as a dance of death with the creature. Both women added completely unnecessary flourish to their attacks as though they were impressing anyone other than each other.

Baimen sighed at the excessive display, clearly sharing Shioriko’s sentiment, but raised her arquebus and took aim anyway. Firing confidently into close quarters involving allies was a rare talent, though unlike the two melee brawlers, Baimen was not one to brag about her skill. She calmly observed the fight, found an opening, and fired.

For her part, Shioriko scoured her memory to identify their opponent. The type of horns. Eye placement. Hiding in a lake. Ferocious roar. Bukavac. That had to be it. But what was it doing this far south? Nevermind that. Weaknesses… Weaknesses… Ah.

Just as Shioriko was opening her mouth to tell the other where best to strike, she became aware of another aura, one that was far more powerful than that of the Bukavac. And it was approaching. Fast. From behind. Heading straight toward…

“Baimen!” Shioriko called.

It was too late. Time seemed to slow as Shioriko watched the gigantic, tiger-like Qiongqi burst out from the trees with teeth and claws intent on rending Baimen to the bone. The sharpshooter turned and tried to pull her weapon around, but there wasn’t enough time. Shioriko reached out and…

The Qiongqi crashed into a wall of brilliant white light.

“Eh?” Baimen and Shioriko uttered, practically in unison.

Baimen recovered first and scrambled to her feet. She stepped quickly to the edge of the barrier, leaned around it, and fired point blank into the Qiongqi. The beast snarled and recoiled, but then crouched and prepared to pounce.

“Oh no you don’t!” Lanzhu suddenly dropped from above, driving her heel into the beast’s head.

“Trying to leave me out again?” Agnes asked, sprinting around the other side of the barrier from Baimen to attack the Qiongqi from behind. “I’m not taking this tiger by the tail, I’m just taking its tail.”

As her squadmates confronted their original intended target, Shioriko made her way to their unexpected ambusher. She needed to find answers to several quandaries. Had she correctly identified the creature? If not, what was it? If yes, she would need make note of the potentially expanded encounter range. And perhaps most importantly, how had she not detected it? Bukavacs were ambush predators but were known to not only make their presence in a territory known by extreme cacophony, but also had strong auras that should have been detectable to those sensitive to them.

Had the lake masked its presence? Had it also interfered with Shioriko’s detection of the Qiongqi until the last moment?

“Hey, Shioriko!”

Lanzhu’s call pulled Shioriko from her thoughts, and she turned toward her friend who was standing proudly over a dead Qiongqi.

“When did you learn to make Holy barriers like that?”

“I thought that was yours?” Shioriko admitted.

Lanzhu shook her head. “Shields aren’t really my thing.”

That was definitely true. Lanzhu firmly believed that a strong offense was the best defense since a defeated enemy could no longer attack. But if Lanzhu didn’t create the wall…

Shioriko held out her hand as though staring at it would enlighten her about her apparently newfound skill.

Lanzhu laughed as she moved toward Shioriko and placed a hand on her shoulder. “Maybe drinking my blood gave you angelic powers?”

Shioriko furrowed her brow. “Only a drop here and there when you needed to purify water to make it safe for me to drink. Also, if that was true, Agnes and Baimen should also be similarly affected.”

“Are you secretly a vampire?” Lanzhu asked.

“What.”

“She’s out in the sun right now.” Baimen pointed out. “And the stir fry I made last night was loaded with garlic.”

Lanzhu shrugged off the points against her question.

“Are there any other cryptids that gain powers from blood?” Agnes inquired.

“I would have to check my notes.” Shioriko replied. “However, I am fairly certain I am a human.”

“Maybe just being friends with an angel all this time has rubbed off on you?” Lanzhu suggested.

Oh, for Heaven’s sake, Shioriko thought, she really does find a way to make everything about herself.

“Well, whatever the source, thank you for protecting me.” Baimen said.

“I am happy to be of use to the squad.” Shioriko replied.

Lanzhu made a disapproving sound. “You’ve always been of use. Lanzhu doesn’t select useless members for her squad. Shioriko is the best field scribe we have, and now I look forward to seeing what you can do with access to Holy.” Her eyes widened in excitement. “Perhaps you can fight vampires.”

“Or zombies.” Agnes added. “Or ghouls. Or pretty much any undead, really.”

“As well as demons and devils.” Baimen contributed. “And while I do not recall Qiongqi being weak to Holy, your barrier worked well against it nonetheless.”

“We should train with your spell when we get back to camp.” Lanzhu suggested enthusiastically.

“Speaking of the base camp…” Baimen loaded a flare round into her arquebus and fired it into the air.

“Right,” Lanzhu nodded, “then before the scribes arrive to retrieve the specimens, take whatever trophies you want. Then we’ll head out.”

“I already got my tiger tail.” Agnes held out her prize as she spoke.

“I’m good.” Baimen stated, not one for trophies.

“I’ll be taking a horn and a fang.” Lanzhu announced. “Want anything, Shioriko?”

Shioriko shook her head. “Not from the monsters, no.”

Lanzhu tilted her head to ask for clarification.

Shioriko knelt and filled a container with water.

“Do you need me to purify that?”

Shioriko shook her head again. “I would like to study it as it is.”

“Alright, but we’re training together first.”

Shioriko smiled. Even if her combat skills were lacking, she did enjoy training with Lanzhu. And while her new skill seemed to be primarily defensive, she was already thinking about possible ways to use it offensively instead.

“Very well.” Shioriko said with a nod.

Lanzhu returned a grin of her own before ordering her squad to return to the Hunters’ base camp.

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Author’s Note Continued: First off, for anyone curious, here are what a bukavac and Qiongqi look like:

And yeah, I had a lot of fun looking up mythical creatures in Asia and Europe. And naming my two new characters. And really just writing this one in general.

Anyway, I like the idea of Shioriko being in a support role instead of a fighter. I think it fits well with her character. And for anyone who may have not made the connection, her aura detection ability is supposed to be a sort of analogue to her canon ability to determine aptitude; iirc, the anime did not explore this much, if at all, but it was a key plot point in the SIFAS main story. I will have to think about what more I can do with this when I get around to writing more stuff for the rival theater in the present.

And finally, as for the Holy stuff, I do have plans for it. And even if it kinda spoils the surprise, I couldn’t resist the title.

[ryqoshay]

Putting on Hairs - Post Production: When Shio Met Lanz

Primary Pairing: Shioriko & Lanzhu Rating: G Words: ~1.3k AU: Angels, and mention of other monsters and supernatural beings Time Frame: Sometime before the main story

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Author’s Note: This idea has been rattling around in my head for a while since I had a wonderful conversation with myonmukyuu about her ideas for a SetsuAyu AU story. (I had to come back to this comment and change it for fear that it may give the wrong impression about this chapter. Hopefully I’ll remember to explain in the notes of a later entry to the arc.)

Summary: A young Shioriko arrives at a Hunter training camp and encounters an interesting angel.

Fair Warning: This chapter may focus on the childhood friendship between Shioriko and Lanzhu, but PoH as a whole will eventually add Mia in for a R3birth OT3. Thus, if that’s not your thing, do feel free to skip this. Elsewise, enjoy.

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“Nee-san, look, an angel.”

“Shioriko,” Kaoruko responded, “you know it’s impolite to point out the nature of others.”

Although the tone was teasing, Shioriko knew her big sister was actually scolding her.

“Sorry…”

“Impressive.” The woman the two were approaching turned. Though her eyes were as sharp as blades cut from sapphire, there was a warmth within them. “Pray tell, little one,” She knelt down to Shioriko’s level and offered a smile “how did you determine I was an angel?”

“Your aura matched a description I read in one of the tomes my parents gave me.” Shioriko explained.

“You detected my celestial aura, despite my abilities to suppress it.” The woman’s smile grew. “Very impressive indeed.”

“Shioriko is exceptionally talented.” Kaoruko boasted. “Even if she can be a little blunt sometimes.” She tousled her younger sister’s hair.

Shioriko furrowed her brow. While she couldn’t deny she enjoyed her sister’s affection, she wished Kaoruko would stick to head pats instead of messing up her hair.

“Shioriko…” The woman stood as she thought for a moment. “Ah, you two must be the Mifune sisters. Your family legacy as Hunters precedes you. Your parents chose well sending you here for training.”

That’s right, training. Shioriko and her sister had traveled to the mainland for training as Hunters, a profession many in their lineage had held. Hunters were a worldwide, though loose organization, hired by those in power, to protect their people from creatures hailing from myth and legend. And while Japan had become somewhat of a safe haven for monsters, cryptids and other supernatural beings over the last millennia or so, the shogunate still employed Hunters to deal with those they deemed as threats.

“By the way, I am…”

Shioriko missed the woman’s name as she suddenly became aware of a much stronger angelic presence, one that was certainly not being suppressed. She turned and…

“Nǐ hǎo!” a voice cried excitedly as its owner dropped from above into a tackling hug. “Huānyíng!”

Those were greetings in the local language, right? Shioriko thought to herself as she shifted her weight to avoid falling to the ground under the force of the glomp.

“Lanzhu.” The woman scolded, her tone lacking the teasing Shioriko was used to hearing from someone like her sister. “Do not scare or injure our new recruits.”

“Duìbùqǐ.” Lanzhu…? replied.

That was an apology. Shioriko was sure of it. Except the girl hugging her did not sound anywhere near apologetic.

“I’m sorry.” The woman said, her tone actually sounding apologetic. “It seems my daughter is excited to finally have someone her age in the camp for a change.”

Her age? Shioriko questioned silently. Angels could be children? Angels could have children? She didn’t remember that being mentioned in the tomes she had read. She thought angels manifested from celestial energy in Heaven in their adult form. It would seem she was wrong.

“You’re Shioriko, right?” The girl asked, switching to Japanese.

Shioriko craned her neck to finally see the girl attached to her. She was practically the spitting image of her mother, though much smaller; definitely a child. Same sharp, sapphire eyes, though they sparkled with more exuberant energy. Pink hair, though maybe a shade lighter. And wings. Brilliant white, feathery wings, leaving no doubt as to her heavenly origin.

Shioriko opened her mouth to confirm Lanzhu’s question but was cut off.

“Lanzhu will show you to your quarters!” The girl announced, releasing her embrace but grabbing Shioriko’s hand instead. “Just follow me!”

As if Shioriko had a choice in the matter of following. Lanzhu’s grip was strong as she pulled Shioriko up the main throughfare of the encampment.

“Don’t be too long.” The woman called from behind. “Today’s training will begin soon.”

“Wǒ zhīdào!” Lanzhu called back without looking, instead dodging around a few individuals on the path.

Shioriko did not understand that phrase and realized she needed up hasten her learning of the language. So far, Lanzhu and her mother seemed fluent in Japanese, but as a visitor, Shioriko knew it was prudent to learn the language of the land instead of relying on everyone else to know her own native one.

“And here we are!” Lanzhu suddenly stopped in front of a decent sized structure. “Lanzhu make sure that your quarters be next to ours so my new best friend Shioriko and I can hang out easier.”

Best friend? That was quick. Then again, Shioriko couldn’t say she was opposed to the idea. She didn’t know Lanzhu all that well yet, but she seemed nice enough, if more than a little bit willful and probably far too accustomed to getting her own way.

“Like it?” Lanzhu asked, but as before, she did not wait for a response before dragging Shioriko inside. “And when Lanzhu heard Shioriko like to read, she secured all the books she could!”

Lanzhu let go of Shikoriko’s hand so she could spread her arms wide to present no less than a dozen shelves, crammed rather haphazardly around the central room. Apparently, in order to fit them all in, one had to partially block the doorway to what was probably a bedroom. Two were set at an angle, with one partially behind the other, as together they were too long for that wall. Several more were leaned against each other instead of against the wall, awkwardly dividing off part of the room, though Shioriko saw potential for a reading nook there.

And the books. By the gods, her family didn’t have that many books back home, in a much bigger area than these quarters. Lanzhu had managed to overflow the available shelving space and stacked many tomes on top of them. And on the tables. And the chairs. And the floor. Shioriko couldn’t help wondering if there were more shelves and books in the other rooms, but she would have to check that later. She could also tell at a glance that nothing was sorted in any meaningful way, but that could be a project at which she could chip away over her time here.

“So, is this enough?” Lanzhu’s question brought Shioriko’s attention back to her.

“Enough for what?”

“For Lanzhu and Shioriko to be friends.” Lanzhu’s expression became somewhat anxious and concerned, an unexpected shift from her earlier confidence and cheerfulness.

What.

Shioriko blinked, not entirely sure if she understood the question or its explanation. Did Lanzhu believe she needed to give grandiose gifts to others in order to earn their friendship? Shioriko was familiar with many gift giving customs, but in most involving individuals that were unfamiliar with one another, the gifts were usually trinkets or small favors. Certainly nothing like what Lanzhu was presenting. Also, since Shioriko was technically the guest or newcomer, should it not be her giving Lanzhu a gift?

“Lanzhu-san.” Shioriko decided to use her given name, as she realized she did not know her family name.

“Lanzhu.”

Shioriko nodded. “Lanzhu, thank you. This is all a wonderful, and unexpected gift.” She couldn’t help a small smile as Lanzhu’s expression started to turn hopeful. “But I believe it to be unnecessary. I am willing to be your friend anyway.”

“Wànsuì!”

Lanzhu surged forward into another tackling hug, forcing Shioriko to once again brace herself or risk being knocked down.

This may take a little getting used to, Shioriko thought to herself. She herself wasn’t the best at making friends either, having spent much of her time lately either training or reading. But there was something about Lanzhu, beyond just their closeness in age, that intrigued her and made her genuinely interested in friendship.

“Shioriko?” A voice called from the door. “Lan… oh wow…”

“Nee-san.” Shioriko greeted her sister as the older girl entered.

“Looks like someone is going to be having fun organizing books for the next few weeks.” Kaoruko smirked as she continued to look around.

“Mm.”

“Anyway, I was sent to fetch you two for training.”

“Lanzhu will show you the way!” Lanzhu declared, once again pulling away from her hug and grabbing Shioriko’s hand.

Yes, this will definitely take some getting used to… Shioriko thought again as she found herself being pulled along by her new friend.

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Author’s Note Continued: Yeesh... How the heck have I not posted anything since March 1st? I know work and life have been busy, but... And it’s not like I haven’t written anything, I obviously just haven’t finished or posted anything for a quarter of a year.

Well, hopefully, this will break the lull.

Currently, I have a three part arc in mind for this LanzShio background story. And I am intentionally leaving plenty of room to come back and add more stuff later if new ideas come to me.

And finally, I’m not 100% set on actual ages for either Fang or Lanz here. Maybe they really are just a year apart. Maybe Lanzhu only looks young, but as an immortal angel, is already centuries old. I’m leaning toward high single digits for human Fang, but again, Lanz is an angel, so I may come back later, or maybe clarify in the next entry, if I figure things out by then.

Edit: Almost forgot. Yes, I typed shogunate up there in the early paragraphs. As in the military power in Japan for something like 700 some odd years. Not fully set on the exact time period of this chapter, but mild spoilers, it will be revealed later in the arc that this is before the Sakoku period of isolation.

[stella-so-sly93]

Oh, gaaaag by Stella-Exquisa

[ryqoshay]

Putting on Hairs: Post Production - Leaving Kyoto

Primary Pairing: LanzShio Words: 673 Rating: T AU: Monsters, Angels, Vampires Time Frame: a long time before the main story Prompt: Yearning

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Summary: Lanzu and Shioriko find themselves unwelcome in Kyoto

Author's Note: Primary entry for the 21st

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“Be gone, bloodsucker!” The Yuki-onna made dismissive motions. “Your kind is not welcome here!”

“Hey!” Lanzhu sneered, stepping between the snow woman and Shioriko. “You…” Whatever else the angel was going to say was cut off as Shioriko’s hands clamped over her mouth from behind.

“It’s alright, Lanzhu.” The vampire said softly. “Let’s just go.”

Lanzhu grumbled what was likely an ancient curse of celestial origins, but it was muffled as Shioriko held firm. After a moment, her shoulders slumped. Then, as she started to turn from the angry innkeeper, Shioriko finally let go.

“I’m sorry.” Lanzhu said as the couple walked down the street.

Shioriko raised an eyebrow. It was rare for her proud, and often arrogant, girlfriend to apologize. Still, “It’s alright.” She assured. “I know you just want to protect me and are willing to get angry on my behalf.”

“Sometimes I wish Shioriko would get angry on her own behalf.”

“I do.” Shioriko admitted.

Lanzhu turned a questioning gaze toward her girlfriend.

“Every time I am reminded of my curse. Every time someone gets angry at me simply for being what I am. Every time we are turned away because I am a vampire, even by other monsters. Every time you are questioned for your support of me. Every…”

“Of course I support you.” Lanzhu interrupted. “I love you. You were my first friend. And now you are my girlfriend and lover. I don’t care that you are a vampire. In fact, I love that you are now immortal like me.”

“Undead.” Shioriko corrected.

“Immortal.” Lanzhu insisted. “And because Shioriko is immortal, she can stay with Lanzhu forever.”

Shioriko smiled. Lanzhu was headstrong, stubborn, and far too quick to cause trouble, but her devotion was unwavering and her love as undying as her celestial body.

“Eh?” Shioriko was startled from her thoughts by a finger poking her cheek.

“That smile was way to wistful.” Lanzhu accused. “Something’s still bothering you.”

Shioriko chuckled. Lanzhu was being surprisingly perceptive.

“I do love knowing that I can spend eternity with Lanzhu.” She said. “However, I cannot help wishing that I was still mortal. I miss being human. I miss… being me. I’m sorry, but…”

Lanzhu shook her head. “I can empathize.”

Shioriko furrowed her brow. “You were mortal once?”

Lanzhu laughed lightly. “No, but I understand your yearning. He instilled all angels with a longing for Heaven and His presence.”

Shioriko decided not to point out that at least Lanzhu could return to Heaven to temporarily sate her longing, while her own vampiric curse had no cure.

“I think someone in Europe came up with a pretty good term recently.” Lanzhu was still speaking.

“<Hiraeth.> It’s Welsh.”

“Yeah, that’s it.”

“It was used in some poetry in a book you found for me.”

Lanzhu grinned. “Lanzhu is always finding the best books for Shioriko.”

Again, Shioriko bit her tongue. This time, because the book in question was partially to blame for Shioriko’s current bout of yearning for what she could not have. But there was no way she would discourage Lanzhu from constantly gifting her books, even if she was running out of extradimensional space in her bag. Even more so than the tomes themselves, Shioriko loved how proud Lanzhu would get when she knew she had found a good book.

Shouting ahead caught the attention of both women. A mob had formed. Again. Civil unrest had become common after the war. And the delicate peace between humans and monsters had been strained. It looked like this group was headed to the inn where they had just been turned away. Fate had a cruel sense of humor.

“Ne, Shioriko.” Lanzhu murmured as she guided them down an alley.

“Mm?”

“Why don’t we leave Kyoto for a while? Find someplace for just the two of us?”

“Alright.”

“Although if we’re out in the wilderness, it may be hard for Lanzhu to find new books for Shioriko.”

“I will just have to reread a few.”

And with that, the couple took to the skies.

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Author's Note Continued: As soon as I saw the prompt, I knew this was the best opportunity to use the prior prompt of Hiraeth that I would likely get, so as to continue my self challenge of using all 93 prior prompts. This will be a challenge come next Promptober as I'm running out of characters in situations that would have such a deep longing that I would personally consider ascribing to be akin to hiraeth. But I will cross that bridge when I get there.

That said, this also ended up being another chance to do a sequel or prequel to a prior Promptober entry; prequel in this case. That entry explored some of Shioriko's Holy powers as she and Lanzhu stumble across some Hunters engaging a vampire lord and help said Hunters. And I really need to expand that chapter at some point.

Also, the war mentioned in the scene is WWII. I figured I could use the real world civil unrest of the years post war to explore how it might affect things with monsters there. And as Shizuku's backstory also includes WWII, there is a non-zero chance that Lanzhu and Shioriko come across her at some point. Or maybe one of the other longer lived monsters in PoH, as I haven't yet decided when everyone arrives in Japan.

And finally, even though they will eventually rope Mia into a trio with them, I do still enjoy the dynamic between Lanzhu and Shioriko. I like pairs where one is high energy while the other is more somber.

Prior Prompts Used: Vampire Unwavering Time Hiraeth

[ryqoshay]

Putting on Hairs: Post Production - Yeren Hunt

Primary Pairing: LanzShio Rating: T Words: 538 AU: Monsters, Cryptids Time Frame: a long time before the main story Prompt: Apocryphal

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Summary: Lanzhu leads her Hunters in tracking down yeren that have been attacking a village

Author's Note: Primary entry for the 12th

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Baimen knelt and inspected something.

“What did you find?” Lanzhu signed to the team’s sniper.

“Footprint.” Was the signed reply. “Large if human. Small if yeren.”

Shioriko pulled a small artifact from her belt pouch and stooped beside Baimen. When the crystal did not glow, she held it closer to the footprint.

“Not cryptid?” Lanzhu signed.

Shioriko shook her head. “Inconclusive. Need something more tangible.”

“Whatever it is, it may be from what attacked the village.” Agnes added silently.

“Let’s keep going.” Lanzhu signed.

Baimen indicated a direction and the Hunters were back on the move. They were investigating reports of yeren in the area, large ape-like cryptids known for raiding villages.

A little further through the woods, the team began to smell food being cooked. They were nearing the camp of whatever they were tracking. Lanzhu signed orders for Baimen to determine the number of opponents while the others would look for the best avenue of attack.

“Humans.” Shioriko signed as the camp came into view. “It would appear the accounts of yeren were apocryphal.”

“The end of the world?” Agnes furrowed her brow.

“That’s the apocalypse.” Lanzhu corrected. “Shioriko means the reports were wrong.”

Agnes nodded.

“The villagers may have been unintentionally apocryphal.” Baimen signed as she rejoined the group.

Agnes sneered at the continued use of the complex vocabulary.

“I found a pile of yeren bodies beyond the camp.” Baimen continued. “It appears this group used their hides as disguises while they attacked the village.”

“You said their footprints were too large.” Lanzhu pointed out.

Baimen nodded.

“They may have performed a ritual and consumed yeren flesh to gain some of their strength.” Shioriko proposed.

“That would coincide with my findings.” Baimen confirmed.

“Well, although not crytpids themselves, it seems they are intent on using crytpid power to harm innocents.” Lanzhu concluded. “Therefore, as Hunters, we cannot allow them to continue.”

Signs of affirmation came from her team.

“I counted twenty.” Baimen signed.

“Five each then.” Lanzhu nodded.

Each? Shioriko blinked. Did Lanzhu intend for her to take down as many as the others?

“It will be good practice for your Holy skills.” Lanzhu signed, seeming to read Shioriko’s mind.

Shioriko took an uneasy breath. Thus far, she had primarily used her newly discovered abilities defensively. There was still so much for her to learn, particularly about the source. Her current hypothesis was that there was a celestial being somewhere in her lineage. This meant there was latent Holy power within her to be awakened by her interactions with an angel like Lanzhu; specifically consuming trace amounts of her blood when used as a material component for water purification.

Still, the thought of trying to figure out offensive uses for her power in the middle of live combat seemed…

A hand landed on Shioriko’s shoulder.

“Worry not, my child.” Baimen signed. “I will have your back.”

“And even if you’re only able to boost our defenses, as you’ve done so far, that’s fine too.” Agnes added.

“Thank you.” Shioriko signed.

“Alright.” Lanzhu turned toward the camp. “Let’s take out these despicable raiders.”

Once again, three affirmative signs were given.

A moment later, Baimen slipped into the shadows of the trees. And the other three charged.

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Author's Note Continued: I was looking for an excuse to write more about Shioriko and Lanzhu's time together as Hunters. And somehow this prompt lent itself to that goal. I don't remember why, but I'm not complaining.

Prior Prompts Used: Shadows Twenty Crystal Unintentional Order Tree

[ryqoshay]

Putting on Hairs: Post Production - Entering Seinaru Mori

Primary Pairing: LanzShio Words: 543 Rating: T? AU: Angels, Vampires, Monsters Time Frame: Long before the main story Prompt: Tree Content Warning: Discussion of vampire and other monster stuff

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Author's Note: Bonus second entry for the 9th that I again forgot to post before my primary entry for the 10th

Summary: Lanzhu and Shioriko arrive at the Veil protecting Seinaru Mori

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“Halt.” An eerie voice commanded, seeming to come from both everywhere and nowhere. “Those who consume others for sustenance are not allowed within the Veil.”

Shioriko and Lanzhu had finally arrived at the edge of Seinaru Mori, a sacred forest at the base of Mt. Fuji. After an… eventful escape from the mainland, a strained voyage across the sea, and a labyrinthian hike through the woods, they simply wanted to rest and take refuge in the supernatural haven.

It had all been Lanzhu’s idea in an effort to hide and protect Shioriko, who was now a vampire, and thus among the least trusted types of monsters. Even in Japan, were many monsters lived peacefully in human society, vampires were often shunned. Unfortunately, it seemed little different here as well.

“That’s rich coming from a jinmenju.” Lanshu sneered.

The fruits on the three before the couple turned toward them, revealing their human-like faces.

“We are capable of obtaining nutrients from the decomposition of others.” The jinmenju stated. “Such is the nature of all plants.”

“Yes, but you…”

“Those parts of the legend have been greatly exaggerated.” The tree interrupted Lanzhu.

Unfortunately, Shioriko was unfamiliar with the jinmenju tree and was unable to contribute to either side.

“Let’s just find somewhere else to go.” Shioriko decided to say instead.

“No.” Lanzhu stated firmly. “Lanzhu said she would take Shioriko to Seinaru Mori, and that is what Lanzhu will do.”

Shioriko sighed.

“Those who consume others…” The jinmenju started to repeat.

“Shioriko will not consume anyone.” This time it was Lanzhu who interrupted.

“She is a vampire.”

“And she can survive on my blood.”

“That is…”

“Which I give willingly.”

“…”

“Shioriko will not drink from an unwilling host.”

“Is this true?” The heads turned toward Shioriko.

“…” Shioriko was about to answer in the affirmative when the memory of one host, the only human from whom she had ever drank, made her pause.

“I swear by my honor as an angel that she will never drink from an unwilling host.” Lanzhu asserted.

“We are asking her.” The jinmenju replied.

“I…” Shioriko swallowed. “I will not drink from an unwilling host.”

It was not a lie. She would never do so. Not again.

“We will consult with our fellow guardians of the Veil.” The tree said after moment.

Suddenly, a rapid series of pops, snaps, cracks and creaks filled the air. It took a moment for Shioriko to notice that the tree’s bark and branches were twisting and shifting in a manner to create the sounds.

Silence reigned in the forest for what felt like hours, but was likely mere minutes, unbroken even by the expected background chatter of local fauna. Even the wind stilled as if it too was awaiting a reply. Then, in the distance, from several directions, responding series of pops and snaps echoed through the area.

“An exception shall be made.” The tree intoned. “But know that you will be observed closely.”

“Hrmp.” Lanzhu uncrossed her arms and took her girlfriend's hand. “Let’s go Shioriko.”

“One last thing before you enter.”

A branch lowered before the pair, presenting many, sweet smelling fruits.

“Thou art unwise to tempt an angel, demon tree.”

The branch withdrew, allowing Lanzhu and Shioriko to enter Seinaru Mori.

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Author's Note Continued: Readers of my Promptober 2022 event collection may recall an EmmaKanaKarin entry that introduced Seinaru Mori into the AU. And one of the cryptids the trio encountered was a gashadokuro, a giant skeleton known to roam around at night and eat any humans it finds. Obviously the guardians and/or denizens of the sacred forest have relaxed their stance on who is or isn't allowed in the sanctum. Perhaps some future chapter I write may explore this change. Perhaps Lanzhu and Shioriko play a role in this change. As always, time will tell.