Sunrise New Year Episode 3 Part 2

We pick up from before as we tune in to Toshigami crying and asking what's going on. As a reminder, energy from leylines is flowing into Toshigami and making him giant sized, and every time he moves he ends up hitting the party with wind pressure. You try to withstand it as you note how strong it is, which is strong enough to prevent you guys from getting any closer. Gyumao figures he's the only one able to do something against someone that big as he slips back to his gangster persona before activating his NP, then tells you all to get behind him.

 

Toshigami freaks out at the scary cowman showing up, and Ahab expresses surprise at Gyumao being able to do the same thing Aegir can. Shennong stays focused on the matter at hand and notes that with Toshigami's movements stopped, you and Wakan Tanka can charge in. Wakan laughs after a second, which prompts you to ask him why. Wakan answers that he's running together with you, which is making him incredibly happy. He then says to you that you guys should go on to the beginning of a new path. You tell him you don't get what he means, but you nod along and agree with the latter point.

 

Meanwhile, Toshigami tries telling Gyumao to let go of him, but Gyumao tells him to sit still for a sec and urges you to move. You call out the activation of your power to cut the connection between Toshigami and the leyline (how you know to do this is a mystery to me), but the moment you try to materialize your artifact it slips through your butterfingers and gets tossed into the distance to the shock of the entire party. It also falls onto the kagami mochi you guys brought with you, and you find you can't pull your sword out of it. Wakan Tanka however tells you not to stop and refers to you as his lightning since you guys have to open up a path, but you start to argue that you can't use your power without your sword until you have a flashback to Shennong explaining about how the decorations around kagami mochi are patterned after the three imperial regalia of Japan (one of which is a sword).

 

Once you remember what items comprise the imperial regalia, which narration says you either only recently heard of somewhere or had always known from some time, you continue running forward, sword in hand with mochi still stuck on it. Shennong is baffled you're getting ready to attack like that, and you go on ahead and call out your NP. Everyone in the party is dumbfounded you did so while Toshigami casually notes that he recognizes the light coming from your sword as coming from Gozu Tennoh's...wife I presume since he trails off on that.

 

Narration starts talking about how there are many Toshigami out there in every region in the land who protect those areas and give blessings on New Year's. Part of their power/Authority comes from the belief in Gozu Tennoh's wife Harisainyo. Narration also mentions that Gozu Tennoh's syncretized manifestation is Susanoo, the one who possesses a dragon tail sword.

 

But anyways, you succeed at cutting Toshigami off from the land's leyline. He immediately shrinks to a more normal size to Gyumao's surprise, and as he falls to the ground Wakan Tanka keeps running forward. He says he saw the path he should take as he activates his NP, and the light of his artifact guides him forward. This eventually puts him in a position to gently catch Toshigami, who is surprised that Wakan came to help him. Wakan answers that he wanted to talk to him, the isolated spirit bound to the earth. Wakan also tells Toshigami that he and the rest of the party isn't his enemy and asks him to believe him. Toshigami is caught off guard by this, and Wakan says he knows how hard Toshigami tried to protect the land and made an unfortunate mistake. Toshigami reacts by bursting into tears like a baby.

 

Time passes to the point where Wakan Tanka comes back holding Toshigami in his arms. He announces his return to the party and then to you. You welcome him back and ask if that kid really is Toshigami, so Toshigami answers himself and says he's one of the Toshigami, entrusted with the protection and prosperity of this mountain area. He doesn't remember what his actual name is, so he asks you all to just call him Toshigami. Ahab asks about a little squirt like him turning huge through the power of the leyline, then comments on not getting what happens on land and that he's more suited to being on a ship.

 

Asterios notes that the huge mass of power has flowed back to the bottom of the land, and Shennong says it looks like some strange connection caused Toshigami to link to a more volatile part of the leyline. He's been cut off from it now though so it'll be fine, though now it's time to talk about Toshigami himself. Toshigami looks apologetic, and Gyumao is quiet. You try to talk to Gyumao and speak up in Toshigami's defense, and Gyumao eventually prompts Toshigami to explain himself in his own words what he was doing to everyone.

 

Toshigami explains in some trepidation that he thought that someone was trying to take over the inn again, so he thought he could scare you guys away. Gyumao asks if that's what all those issues that popped up were all about, which Toshigami admits to. Gyumao says they talked to the inn people earlier and asks if that was a misunderstanding. Toshigami agrees after a moment, so Gyumao says there's something he ought to be saying then for all those problems. Toshigami shrinks back prompting Taurus Mask to try to talk Gyumao into lightening up.

 

You call out to Gyumao or tell Taurus Mask it's okay, and Gyumao's assistant also says it's fine; things just need to go through the proper channels. Toshigami apologizes for what he's done, so Gyumao forgives him. Toshigami was expecting to be hit or yelled at and reacts accordingly until he processes what Gyumao said. Gyumao picks Toshigami up and sticks him on his shoulders as he smiles broadly. He talks about how Toshigami did what he did to protect the inn so that the original owners and crew could come back, then says that putting your body on the line to protect your friends and family is the Gyumao Family creed. He also adds that having a Toshigami show up in the beginning of the year is the best sign of good luck, though he laughs that having a herd of ox like them should be just as good.

 

Toshigami is surprised to the point he's having some trouble keeping up and asks if you're all really forgiving him, then asks if the original owners are coming back. Gyumao swears upon his name, then says that the workers are in the middle of recuperating. He also laughs that with his Gyumao brand exercising, a strained back or slipped disk will be nothing and that the owner will be fine in no time. Toshigami's slime minions jiggle around, and he nods at them saying you guys weren't bad people at all and that the old workers will be coming back.

 

Gyumao turns the topic to business for a moment and asks if Toshigami will stay as he is to protect the inn and the land, saying it'd be a huge help. Toshigami smiles and nods. Gyumao approves of the fast response and declares him a blood brother, so you either comment on surprise at how quickly he did that or ask if there'll be a problem if there's too many blood brothers around.

 

Gyumao laughs and tells everyone to come closer since they're all part of his family. Shennong points out that since the main points are covered, you guys ought to hurry on since sunrise will be happening soon. Gyumao asks if it's that time already, then tells everyone to follow him. Wakan Tanka invites Toshigami along as he calls him a buffalo. Taurus Mask also prompts everyone to hurry along and offers to carry Toshigami on his back. Toshigami is surprised by this and asks if it's okay for him to go too. Ahab mentions not understanding what the hell people are talking about, but he says having more good luck signs is a good thing. Marduk calls it the fresh new year's beginning visit from Buddha (despite not coming from Buddhist beliefs) to welcome the dead's spirits and tells Toshigami to come too. Toshigami excitedly agrees.

 

The sunrise comes, which you observe as you say you feel refreshed and point out how Tokyo is being embraced in light. Shennong asks if you've heard as he starts talking about how there are various theories, but there's a story about how Toshigami come in with the first sunrise of the year. New Year's decorations are meant to welcome Toshigami, so you can think of the sunrise as something that brings up the welcoming.

 

Gyumao calls to you guys and tells you that Asterios and the others have made warm drinks for everyone and asks if anyone wants any here in the cold mountain top. Asterios offers Toshigami some hot milk and asks if he can drink it, so Toshigami thanks him. Asterios nods and warns him to be careful since it's hot. Gyumao talks to Ahab and notices the smell around him, so Ahab comments on him having a good nose to notice the bit of booze he always brings around with him. Ahab says this is a lucky place, so it'd be a waste to be here sober. And since it's New Year's he offers to share some with Gyumao.

 

Gyumao laughs and accepts, then compliments Ahab on his leadership earlier. He talks about how he's heard Ahab is part of Toyosu Marine Academy doing sea training and oceanic fieldwork with his skills, then mentions how Roppongi has plans to do some business development in Tokyo Bay. He doesn't know much about the sea though, so he asks if Ahab would help him with that, remembering to switch back to his polite business persona at this point.

 

Ahab snorts and says he's just a sailor, then tells Gyumao to take up business talks with Aegir or development talks with Dagon. He does admit an interest in Tokyo Bay as he says it has too many strange parts too it. Gyumao says that's reassuring to hear, then turns to Shennong to ask if he's interested in being a ship doctor for a cruise liner he's hiring people for. Shennong laughs at how business minded Gyumao is, then tells him he'll think about it if his students get on board.

 

Toshigami is having some of his hot milk and comments on how warm it is, so you ask him how the milk is and talk about the sunrise being nice. Toshigami takes a moment to remember your name as he thanks you for helping him earlier. He talks about how things would be different if he had tried talking to you guys in the beginning, and you respond by either denying it, apologizing for scaring him, or say you're happy to talk like this.

 

Toshigami stays quiet, and the sunrise's light falls upon him. A transformation occurs, and Toshigami's clothes get switched out for New Year's formal wear. He recognizes it as the things the inn workers put together for him. Gyumao notes his surprise at that, then says it's a good thing he brought what he did just in case. In his hand is the paulownia wood box that's opened up, and you tell Toshigami he looks good in those clothes and/or(?) wonder if they're meant for him. Toshigami starts crying, then says he wants to see the owner, hostess, and all the workers again. His slime minions draw closer to him as if to watch over him.

 

Some time passes, and Gyumao suggests it's time to pray to the sunrise for your hopes, dreams, and good health. Everyone prays silently and fervently with their own thoughts, and the only sounds that people hear is the blowing of the wind. You pray towards the sunrise as well, and eventually Gyumao, Wakan Tanka, and Shennong all suggest doing the Tokyo thing and visit a shrine or whatever.

 

Time passes some more, and Taurus Mask comments on how you guys are seeing more and more people as you descend. Gyumao explains that the mountain you guys were on is his company's private property, so it'd be surprising if anyone waltzed in. Tetsugyuu then notices that Gyumao's assistant is gone and asks where he went, so Gyumao answers that he unfortunately had other work to attend to. They'll visit a shrine some other time. Gyumao then declares it's free time for everyone and says he'll go see the shrine priest. Wakan Tanka asks what you'll do and invites you to come with him if you'd like. You can either choose to go with either of them to see their event special scenes, or go see what the others in the party are thinking.

 

I'll get to the individual scenes in a moment, but if you pick C here, Shennong wonders aloud about what he'll do before inviting you to go visit the shrine with him. Ahab comments on being bored and considers getting booze because it's 5 o clock somewhere. He then hears about amazake and wonders if there's any of that around. The choices come up to see either of their scenes or to cycle through the party again. The third set has Taurus Mask and Tetsugyuu. Taurus Mask considers buying some charms, though he's not sure whether he should pick victory or safety. Tetsugyuu meanwhile is hungry and considers buying something from the stalls as he invites you to go with him.

 

The fourth set has Asterios and Marduk. Asterios says he's not good with crowded places and will be somewhere a bit distanced and asks you to call him when it's time to go. Marduk looks surprised as he asks about this being a sort of festival and welcoming gate for something great. He considers bringing Teda with him next time as he asks you if you'll show him around. C loops the choices back to Gyumao and Wakan Tanka while D is the choice to skip the extra scenes or stop if you've seen them all already. So a reminder (Gyumao and Wakan Tanka), (Shennong and Ahab), (Taurus Mask and Tetsugyuu), and (Asterios and Marduk). The choices to see someone's scene comes up again once you're done with one person's bit, and also these lead-ins won't play if you pick someone early on. I'll be doing these scenes in the given order.

 

In Gyumao's scene, Gyumao starts by apologizing for keeping you waiting as he says he offered some new kagami mochi, and now the job is finished. He comments that it doesn't happen much for him to be done with work while the sun is out, then says he's feeling great. Gyumao notes that there's still some time before needing to regroup, so he drops the business persona as he invites you to linger with him for a bit. You actually ask about him stopping with the business talk for the moment, so he laughs and asks if you really mind that much. He assures you he'll go back to it soon after leaving this place.

 

Gyumao admits to being surprised at how much he slipped back to his old roughhousing moods. When he's on a mountain where hot things boil up, he starts remembering old memories and the days he spent with his blood brothers. But anyways he says he's having fun now because he has his underlings, and he has you too. Gyumao talks about how with his business talks done, he can finally have some more private talks. He tells you how his apartment/room has an order of 30 boxes of osechi like a mountain, and he asks you to spend a bit more time with him while he's in this mood as you two quietly hold hands among the crowd as his scene ends.

 

Wakan Tanka's scene starts with him talking about how nice it is to come down from somewhere high to walk on the ground and pray with other people. He looks deeply moved for a moment and seems to remember something from long ago as he looks around, then comments that you're here with him now, which he's happy about more than anything. You two get bumped into each other, surprising Wakan as he asks if you're okay and commenting on how the crowds can jostle people.

 

Wakan Tanka then says he's got a good idea and suggests you guys stand shoulder to shoulder in a scrum. He then tells you to put your hands to his waist or his shoulder to stick close to him and not get separated. Whatever you apparently do, Wakan approves and asks you not to go away somewhere. He notes it's almost your guys' turn at the front of the line, at which point you ask what he's wishing for. He has to think about it for a second, then says he wishes that the two of you can welcome spring together, which is something he says he's always wishing for. The scene then ends as the two of you gently hold hands.

 

In Shennong's scene, Shennong comments on how many people are around and wonders if that many people are here to wish for good luck or good health. Shennong then notices that there are fortune sticks around, which he remembers are called omikuji in Tokyo. He suggests pulling one since it's there, then offers to treat you to a draw that he asks that you keep a secret from everyone else.

 

You two pull, and Shennong looks at his curiously. He then mentions hearing that this shrine is supposed to be good with love fortunes. He figures a student like you would be interested in something like that, though he's interrupted when someone bumps you which then makes you bump into him. Shennong comments on how dangerous it is to have so many people around as he tells you to stay close to him. He makes a point of saying he's not treating you as a child, but rather the opposite of that. The two of you then gently hold hands as his scene ends.

 

In Ahab's scene, he's already tipsy as he calls you over to him. He denies being totally drunk off the amazake which is supposed to be light on alcohol content, all the while hiccuping from it. Ahab talks about getting a fortune for his next sailing voyage somewhere, and he plans on going back to his anchored ship to sleep once things are done. He's surprised when you ask to go with him and worries that you have no one else to hang out with. He shrugs and agrees to look after you, though before that he says there's still the shrine visit to do first. Ahab then tells you not to get separated from him in the crowd, and the two of you hold hands as the scene ends.

 

In Taurus Mask's scene, Daisuke has at some point taken off his mask as he talks about his determination about how this will be the year he gets over his stage fright. He mentions hearing that the prayer you make on a New Year's shrine visit is better done as a vow rather than a request, which is why he took off his mask. He cuts himself off midsentence when he notices you there and pretends this meeting is totally a coincidence. Taurus Mask? Oh is he here? Daisuke claims he's here to visit the shrine without a mask on so that he can do his best at the last match for the third years when he decides to backtrack and say it's nothing.

 

Daisuke makes an observation of how big the crowd is, at which point someone bumps into you. Daisuke quickly moves to catch you, and after that's dealt with Daisuke quickly starts apologizing and saying he didn't mean to do that. You tell him that you're going to visit the shrine too, so Daisuke tells you to wait since it'll be dangerous to go alone. He offers to go with you and asks to take your hand, so the two of you hold hands and go as his scene ends.

 

For Tetsugyuu's scene, Tetsugyuu comes back and tells you he got a three item set of yakisoba, takoyaki, and hot dogs on a stick. He then notes how crowded the place is and offers to grab some seats. You tell him he can't go scaring people out of theirs, so he laughs about how well you know him. Tetsugyuu then suggests sitting over at the curb, by which he means he sits on the curb and you sit in his lap. He hands you some chopsticks, then asks what you'd like as a drink. There is some alcohol, but there's also juice around too.

 

The two of you settle down to eat, and Tetsugyuu talks about how nice the food is and how lucky it is for the two of you to be alone together. Speaking of, Tetsugyuu invites you to eat out with him during the New Year's period in Kabukicho and says some of the Outlaws have recommended a place to him. He insists on making it a promise and gets excited at the idea, smiling innocently at you. You notice some red ginger on his face and move to get it off. Tetsugyuu is confused at first before laughing about how you're always treating him as a kid. But now that you're both done eating he suggests getting in line for the shrine, and he tells you his wish is to stay with you forever. The wording he uses specifically means married for life. The two of you then hold hands as you go, and his scene ends.

 

In Asterios's scene, Asterios is surprised you came with him since he figures you'd have more fun being with the others. When you deny that, Asterios calls you a weirdo who's always like that. He then asks if you want to get something to drink since it can be cold in the mountains. Asterios goes through his bags and pulls out a gas cooker he's lugging around for some reason, and he starts talking about some guy he once met in the mountains who taught him about camping. Ever since then he's liked mountains, and the chirps of birds, the running of water, and the rustling of plants make him not feel lonely. He invites you to come with him next time, saying you wouldn't turn things into a loud commotion.

 

Narration notes that Asterios is speaking casually and not actually looking at you as he works, and soon he's finished with his cooking. Asterios says he couldn't bring it out earlier because there were too many people, then hands you the soup he made. He mentions only having the one cup though, so he asks if it's okay to share the thing. You bring up the idea of an indirect kiss, which flusters Asterios as he tells you to stop being stupid and drink the damn soup. You respond by telling him he's loud, so he apologizes and laughs, and the two of you hold hands as his scene ends.

 

Finally, in Marduk's scene Marduk starts off talking to himself about the customs at a shrine, like the belief that you shouldn't walk down the center of a shrine's road since that's where gods and other things walk. He comments on how seeing and hearing that is new to him and compares himself to a newborn baby. He then takes notice of you and refers to you as the reincarnation of his archenemy who once ate him, Tiamat. He says he's never thought that after the days he would run into you and fight you, he'd be spending time with you like this.

 

Still, Marduk notes that people change just like anything else, and he compares this to a new sun greeting a new year. Marduk then asks you to teach him the customs of Tokyo and how he ought to behave as the hero of the sun. What is he supposed to fight against as a hero and warrior? It's something he thought about going over again with you here at the beginning of the year. And so the two of you hold hands as you head into the crowds and his extra scene ends.

 

Once you're done seeing the scenes you want to see, the party heads back to the inn. You announce that you're back and that you're hungry, then notice that someone else is here and ask about them. The gang turns out to be present as Ryouta welcomes you guys back and greets you a happy new year. Shirou says you did well in climbing the mountains and figures it must've been cold. He tells you the food is ready and says the rest of them helped out. Kengo comments on how nice it is to have a bath you can swim in and invites you to go with him again later. Moritaka greets you a happy New Year's and does the customary formal greetings. Gullinbursti has turned up and adds his New Year's greetings, and Touji says they finally made it. He sees Toshigami next to you and says a lot of things must have happened as he guesses as much in his head.

 

When you guys get to banquet hall, Benten asks who the little kid is and wonders if someone here knows him or if he's already a customer. Gyumao introduces Toshigami as his new business partner who'll help make the business prosper with everyone. Toshigami turns to Ebisu and starts trying to talk to him, so when Ebisu asks what's up, Toshigami thanks him for the soba saying it was good and asks for another offering of it some time. Ebisu tells him he's welcome and is glad he liked it, then laughs to himself.

 

Agyou starts talking to you next and says you've finally come, then tells you they've finished cleaning up the safe house. You are surprised to see everyone here, including Agyou and Gullinbursti. You then ask how it is they're here, so Shirou tells Gyumao snuck over to explain things to the gang while the rest of you were getting on the bus. A flashback kicks in where Gyumao tells the gang he'd like them to come and gives them bus fare. He thanks them for their kindness, though he says he also wants them to treasure their time with you too. If they can help him out with stuff after they're done with their business, he'll be glad about that. He also offers to pay the guys for doing so, then excuses himself and says he'll be waiting for them at the inn.

 

Back to the present, Ryouta talks about how that was how they got their travel expenses to get here, then adds that the rest of them wanted to see the new year with you too. Moritaka says they're here now because they took up Gyumao's offer as he asks you to come over. Touji tells you to put out your glass as he'll pour a drink for you out of appreciation, and he assures you it's just juice. Gyumao asks if everyone else has their glass too, then raises a toast to the health, prosperity, and bright future for everyone this year, and everyone yells Happy New Year's in unison.

 

Gyumao starts laughing as he calls the party a lavish feast and starts handing out New Year's money, which he says is also the part time wages. Kengo laughs to himself about it being worth it to come out here, then gets indignant when Shirou takes his out of his hands. Shirou tells him the guild will hang onto it since Kengo never actually paid back what he owes for buying workout equipment with guild funds on his own.

 

Taurus Mask looks over the osechi dishes and says it's all very lucky, then says he'll be winning the spring match ups for sure. Taurus Mask then turns to you and starts asking if you've heard about the origins and meanings behind some of the dishes. Ebisu mentions that Taurus Mask helped out with some of the cooking, especially the ozoni rice cakes, and he says it's nice how large they are. Ahab meanwhile is drinking again, and he says the food goes great as snacks and orders someone to bring him more booze.

 

Some time later, Ryouta cheers about getting into the hot springs in the beginning of the year and calls it lucky. Asterios tries to warn Ryouta against going in all of a sudden because of the slimes inside, but he's too late as the things start tickling Ryouta. Ryouta laughs and attempts to stop them from going inside his towel or something. Asterios sighs and says that startling the slimes like that will cause them to swarm you. In the meantime, Ryouta has pulled Touji in with him as the latter unsuccessfully tells him to stop.

 

Asterios shakes his head at how loud the two are, and the topic reminds him to wonder where that one guy went. Asterios then notices Daisuke around, who is taken aback and says he left his mask behind since he thought no one would be here yet. Asterios thinks Daisuke is just some random customer, though he does get the feeling he's seen him before. Daisuke attempts to deny it before his shyness gets the better of him and he pleads for Asterios to not look at him. Asterios sympathizes with him and invites Daisuke to come talk with him for a bit.

 

Shennong is in the hot springs and comments on how amazing the Flaming Mountain brand filtration device is, then tells Gyumao he never thought he could get in the same pool as everyone before when he couldn't even touch anyone. Gyumao laughs and says he's thankful he can demonstrate his new product working, though he does ask for Shennong to lend his medical expertise to help improve it. Shennong agrees, then raises a small toast to him.

 

Some time later you're outside with Solomon as he says it's time to fly kites. He brags about wanting to show you Kite Flying Rank 3 Certifaction skills before Snow and Cait Sith come by. Shennong is also flying a kite as he talks aloud about relaxing himself and not going against the wind. Benten is impressed by him and takes it upon herself to show off too by reading the flow of things. Tetsugyuu notes that everyone else is doing well with it while he's having problems trying to not brute force his kite flying. Not even five seconds later his kite is on the verge of tearing up, so Moritaka shows him how to handle it more delicately. Tetsuguu gives it a try, then gets excited when it starts working and asks if you were watching.

 

Gouryou is around and comments on not liking manual labor, but he doesn't mind it so much for making mochi. Toshigami is also trying to lift the mallet, but he's struggling to do so and is frustrated Gouryou is making it look so easy. Agyou goes over to help him, so the two of them start swinging the mallet together.

 

Wakan Tanka is over at the vantage point again and talks about how it's been a fun, lively start of the year. You ask him what's up and ask about what he wanted to talk about, so Wakan starts saying January is the season that tells him the times he'll spending with you are almost at an end. Everything changes regardless of what you think of it as time always moves forward. Still, Wakan says that no matter what happens next, the time he spent with you still meant something. He asks that you remember that this shivering joy was here, so you either nod, tilt your head, or stare at him. Wakan says it's fine either way since it'll still hold meaning someday even if you don't understand now. He then says everyone is waiting, so he suggests going together to the new year. He takes your hand as the two of you run off, and so the beginning of the new year comes and goes. The End.

 

 

 

Sunrise New Year Episode 3 Part 1

Things pick up with you and Marduk in the middle of cleaning the front entrance of the inn as Marduk starts talking about how clean, fresh, and just like brand new gates and entrances should be. It turns out that's the very first thing Marduk started doing as soon as he got here, and once the two of you are done the area is sparkling clean. You either comment on how clean it is now and thank Marduk for his efforts, or you say you're tired. Marduk says a clean gate really is great and says his mount Mushussu is happy too as Mushussu starts ambling closer. Mushussu then cuts Marduk off midsentence as it starts putting its mouth around Marduk's head, who protests in alarm that he doesn't need to be made brand new too and starts freaking out about it being dark and cramped.

 

Shennong walks by and casually comments on how having a dragon in a clean entryway is a combination for good fortune. You either ask about dragons being in the entry area being good luck or you react with more alarm and say you guys should help Marduk. Shennong just continues with his explanation and says dragons are Things That Flow as well as a symbol of natural upheaval and tyranny. According to feng shui from his home world, having a dragon at the entrance stimulates the leyline flows inside a house. The paths of chi that run through the earth are also known as dragon veins, though Shennong catches himself at this point here and says this isn't really time to leisurely exposit about things. Next to you guys, Marduk is flailing and kicking around his legs, like half swallowed by Mushussu.

 

Time passes as you and Shennong pull Marduk out of Mushussu, and he pants and thanks you guys for saving him since he was almost factory rebooted. Shennong comments on how clean the place is and says it feels like the place is finally ready to welcome guests again. He then apologizes to Marduk for making him work as soon as he got there, but Marduk waves it off, saying there's plenty for a first year student like him to learn by working together with his senpai and teachers. You either express surprise that Marduk is a kouhai or you remark that he's a good person.

 

Marduk asks you what you're surprised about as he calls himself just a bright and sparkling first year student. Shennong comments that the other guys should be done with setting up the New Year's soba by now, so invites you, Marduk, and Mushussu to have some. He then notices that you seem distracted and asks you what's up before telling you you ought to go before the noodles get soggy. The ghost kid slips by, and Marduk asks you what's wrong too. You tell them you saw a kid you didn't recognize for a second, but you're unsure about it so you decide not to press the subject.

 

Time skips to the point where everyone has gathered into the banquet hall where Ebisu says he's got his New Year's special soba with lots of tempura course ready to go. There's also a whole bunch of choices as to what people want as their tempura aside from shrimp, like chicken, onions, burdock roots, mixed veg and fish, chikuwa, and corn. And of course there's also a lot more noodles prepped, so if people want seconds they're free to ask for more. Marduk is impressed as he comments on how the tasty sensation of the noodles going down is and how it's filled with love. The texture and skills that made them is simply amazing. Ebisu thanks him for enjoying it and says there's still plenty available, so he can keep eating if he'd like. Marduk says he will have some more, then turns to Mushussu and asks what he/it/whatever thinks of the noodles, only to try getting the dragon to stop again with dog commands like before as Mushussu attempts to eat him again. Ebisu freaks out at seeing this.

 

Meanwhile, Tetsugyuu is talking with Wakan Tanka and ask if he's sure he saw a kid around. He also thinks it's weird of him to bring up that there might be some dead kid around when everyone's gathered together to eat, then says he wouldn't want to come back as a ghost if he dies. Wakan says it's not really a child he's talking about, more an earth spirit that's taken root in this land for a long time. He also gets the feeling that it's something that 'is supposed to be here on New Year's' more than anything and that that is where the correct path is. You ask him about this, say you don't understand what he means, or have an idea as to what he's talking about.

 

Shennong is also following along this conversation and asks if Wakan Tanka is saying that the kid ghost is actually Toshigami. Asterios asks if Toshigami is that prankster spirit that can come into the place despite the shimenawa ropes around the inn, so Shennong answers that there is some regional differences in faith, but that it is something like that. He then reasons that all the issues that have been happening around the place make sense if you think of it as Toshigami manipulating them all. He's siccing the slimes on you guys for...some reason.

 

Tetsugyuu asks why Toshigami would have a problem with you guys since you guys just came to clean the place up, not kill or steal anything. You either tell Tetsugyuu he's being too loud, agree that the motive is a mystery, or just go hmm. Shennong suggests asking someone who knows more about what's going on then, which in this case would be Gyumao. When he turns to look for him, he realizes he's not there, which he finds weird since he thought he was with the banquet hall team. Tetsugyuu attempts to ask Gyumao's assistant if he's seen where Gyumao went, only to be taken aback when the pirate is preoccupied with slurping noodles.

 

You either attempt to get the pirate's attention yourself, note that he seems to be enjoying the food, or be shocked that he's stacking three seafood and veggie tempura patties together. The pirate tunes back in at any rate, apologizing for spacing out while eating as he comments on how nice the noodles and tempura are. But anyways, he tells you guys that Gyumao went to check on a paulownia wood box they found in the banquet hall earlier.

 

You ask about them finding a paulownia wood box earlier, so Tetsugyuu remembers you guys ended up passing by each other earlier. He also tells you they found a hidden compartment earlier, at which point Gyumao comes back apologizing about leaving for a second before noting that you guys are talking about the box he brought with him. The box itself looks to be high class. Gyumao mentions that a whole bunch of boxes like it were hidden in that compartment, and that he just had the owner confirm the one he's brought over. He got their permission to open it up, and then he tells everyone to take a look at the contents.

 

When Gyumao opens up the box, you guys find an old complete set of crest-emblazoned Japanese formal clothing. Gyumao mentions that it apparently belongs to Toshigami and that the hostess decorates it every year for good luck. Wakan Tanka repeats Toshigami's name as everybody else present looks at Gyumao in surprise, which prompts him to ask why you're all doing that. You then start explaining what's up to Gyumao what's going on as you call him either CEO or Boss.

 

After an offscreened explanation, Gyumao nods and says it's possible, but then asks why Toshigami would try to attack you guys. Ebisu suggests the possibility that you guys surprised him, which Benten agrees with as she reasons out that he could have come here on New Year's like usual, only to find a bunch of strangers instead of the people he knows. Asterios sympathizes with how that would feel, saying he'd be scared if that happened to him. Shennong says that's even more reason to try to talk to Toshigami the next time something happens, and Wakan Tanka says he wants to talk to them too.

 

Ebisu puts down some soba noodles at an elevated location, which Ahab asks about. Ebisu tells him they can't eat that portion of it since it's an offering. If Toshigami really is around, Ebisu says they should share some of it with them. He does hope Toshigami will have some and think it's good though. Benten nods and says it doesn't feel bad to be given something, then says the Lucky Gods used to get a lot of food offerings too. She waxes nostalgic about how she, Daikoku, and the others would go on tour to different worlds, and you comment how nice that is to Ebisu and say a lot's happened with Benten too.

 

Shennong nods and says that's good to you and Ebisu, then says that mutual understanding starts with respecting the other party. Marduk speaks up to you and Shennong and says it's almost time. Shennong checks and realizes what time it is, so he prompts everyone to do what they should be doing since greetings are important, so everyone says Happy New Year's to each other.

 

Once that's done, Gyumao says there's some time until sunrise, so he suggests people get some rest in the bedding that's been set up. Watching the sunrise is another good luck tradition around here after all. Tetsugyuu is excited about everyone sleeping in a large room together because that doesn't happen often, then suggests to you to have a pillow fight. Taurus Mask supports the idea and suggests showing off the graceful teamwork between the two of you. Asterios is against this however and says he wants to sleep in peace, and Marduk thinks about sunrise to himself.

 

Somewhere outside, the slimes are jiggling around while Toshigami is having the soba noodles and says they're good as he starts to consider you guys may be good people. He then takes this idea back and says that if the owner and hostess aren't here, you guys must have chased them off. Something like this has happened before, which was called a takeover. Back then he did manage to drive off the scary people though. Toshigami talks about how people shouldn't make the owner and hostess cry, then says it'll be enough if he makes you all go away. That said, he comments on feeling some sort of strange bond with you and wonders why that is. The cook slimes are with him too chugging away, so Toshigami asks if they'll open up soon and asks where they came from for that matter.

 

Some time later, Tetsugyuu asks what's up since it's still dark out and invites you to sleep next to or with him. Wakan Tanka is also awake, saying he understands wanting to get more sleep but says it's time to get ready for the sunrise. Tetsugyuu asks about that. Later over in the hot springs, Asterios wonders why you guys are going in there. Shennong explains that it's a purification of the mind and body and that you're supposed to start things off fresh. He's not actually in the water though, which you ask him about.

 

Shennong says it's because the poison in his body would leach out if he got in, so he makes sure not to get in with people when he goes to places like this. He asks you not to pay any mind to that, and Gyumao comments that That Thing his company is in the middle of developing might come in handy, so he considers having it sent over later. Shennong is curious about this but doesn't ask into it, and Taurus Mask comments on how the cold air and warm water are melting away his early morning workout fatigue. Wakan Tanka meanwhile says the sense of unity in being in the hot spring with everyone is so nice. Gyumao laughs and says it reminds him of Flaming Mountains when he did this with his underlings then. Tetsugyuu excitedly tells you they've got a bunch of milk available and asks if you'd like fruit milk, strawberry milk, regular, or something else.

 

Time passes again as almost everyone gets dressed in New Year's formal wear. After the camera pans over the people wearing them, Gyumao laughs and says they look great, then asks if everyone's fine with them since there are larger sizes available. Wakan Tanka says they're comfortable and that they tense up the mind when he stretches straight up. Shennong notes how these are New Year's clothes and asks how he looks, so you say he looks great, wonder how yours looks, and say it's hard to move in it since you aren't used to it.

 

Taurus Mask says you look great in the clothes and tells you to look at him so he can take a picture. Ebisu talks about how they probably should have brought their own formal wear too if this was how things would be. He also needs to dry his old New Year's work clothes out in the sun from time to time too. Benten says she might have left the cleaning to someone else. Gyumao says it's about time to head to the viewpoint spot if everyone is ready, and his assistant warns him to be careful because his old demeanor is showing through more and more.

 

Ebisu tells you guys that he and Benten will be prepping for the party for when you guys get back, so there'll be a lot of good good waiting for you guys. Benten adds that they'll be busy with other stuff too, so they need to conserve their energy. Ebisu then remembers that Gyumao asked him to make something, so he hands it over and asks you to hang onto it. You look and see that it's a package of kagami mochi, so Gyumao thanks Ebisu and says it's a shrine offering. Gyumao says they'll be going now and leaves the two of them to hold down the fort. If anything happens, they've got the emergency hotline they can use to contact him.

 

Ebisu nods, then starts thinking about Toshigami and comments on mysterious connections to the year of the ox. Benten asks him why he's talking about Toshigami now, which surprises Ebisu as he asks if she's forgotten about how back in Wa no Kuni, every Toshigami from every region served a certain person. He then asks if she remembers ever going around and greeting the Toshigami as a messenger of the Seven Lucky Gods. None of this rings a bell for Benten, and Ebisu remembers all of that work got dumped onto him. But anyways he starts describing this person as the wife of Gozu Tennoh, the man with a bull's head and a human's body. He also starts linking Gozu Tennoh to That Person's home land when transition cuts him off.

 

Scene shifts to your end where the party is heading to the vantage point for the new year's sunrise. You comment on all the bulls around and how that feels like such a good omen that this year ought to be a good one. Gyumao laughs and asks you what's up, so you tell him you were thinking about how there's so many bulls around and started wondering if it was okay for you to be with them. He laughs some more asking if you were worried about that, then assures you that you have the talents of an ox. You ask in surprise what that even means or sigh and ask him to take this seriously.

 

Gyumao starts talking about how you can be here among them all and not give off the feeling like you're out of place with them, but Shennong cuts in partway through to say it's fine to talk, although he warns you guys to watch your steps. He talks about how you guys are taking this mountain path up to the vantage point, and while it is spacious enough it's not paved. Taurus Mask notes that it's a pretty rugged or steep path, though it does make for good leg training. Gyumao asks you all to get excited about the vantage point and says it's a special spot his company found. Tetsugyuu comments on how dark it is and remembers aloud how it's just like that one path he escaped to with his old boss. Ahab is taken aback at that topic and tells him to stop talking about it since it'll jinx you guys.

 

Camera shifts over to Toshigami, who comments on you guys showing up and resolves to scare you guys away this time. He decides to do this by tapping into the leylines and borrow some power to make himself bigger, which seems to go well at first until he sees some light that freaks him out, and he compares it to the light besides the true form of a buddha. A huge surge of energy flows into Toshigami's spiritual body, which narration compares to a rampaging dragon.

 

Back to the party, Ahab warns Gyumao to be careful because his scars are aching, which means a storm is coming. Gyumao is surprised and asks what he means by that, so Ahab says it's the instinct of a sailor. He's aware of how dumb that sounds while on land though. But he explains that it's a sign of something bad happening, something he shouldn't talk about. Before he says much more, he's surprised speechless when he sees Giant Toshigami. Nobody else has any words to say when they look at him either.

 

Ahab points to Toshigami, who at this point is even bigger than a mountain. Toshigami for his part loudly crying and asking why this is happening, and Wakan Tanka recognizes him as the ghost kid he saw flying around the inn. Tetsugyuu is also shocked at a little kid suddenly turning into a giant, though he stops for a second as he mentions feeling like he's seen him somewhere before. Shennong asks if that's Toshigami who Wakan saw earlier, and Wakan nods to him with a serious expression on his face. Toshigami cries and begs for someone to help him, so you tell everyone to get ready to go and help and that you want to talk to him.

 

Tetsugyuu playfully complains about there being too many fights at the beginning of the year, but he says that suits you. Asterios says he'll handle it and agrees that you shouldn't leave a kid who's crying alone. Taurus Mask agrees to help out, saying a hero who doesn't save kids is no hero at all. Marduk joins in for pretty much the same reasoning. Ahab points out that there's a difference between bravery and recklessness, then says his crew would have a plan for fighting against something stupidly huge. You say the plan is to get to the kid's location at which point you'll do something about things as you hold your sword out to everyone.

 

Ahab comments on you working out a plan and approves, calling this a rehearsal for a big hunt. Ahab then commands the rest of the party to pin down Toshigami's movements to cut a path forward for you, which they acknowledge. Gyumao slips further back into his old gangster mannerisms as he refers to the party as a group of hoodlums, asking if they're ready and offering to give New Year's money to anyone who does well. The pirate assistant is here too as he tells Gyumao he's backsliding, but then again he likes that side of him and proclaims his admiration of him. The episode battle then begins as Wakan Tanka activates his NP, asking for the buffalo to lead the way to the other side of the mountain.

 

Sunrise New Year Episode 2 Part 2

We pick off from last time with you and Shennong walking to the kitchen after the thing with the hot springs is done. Once you two get there, Benten notes you guys being there and asks if the springs are fixed since she heard a loud noise from that direction. Shennong nods and says you guys managed to avoid having the inn not have any hot springs to use. Benten is glad to hear that and mentions it'll be great to go in after her New Year's concert.

 

You ask if Benten and Shennong know each other and ask in surprise just how well known is Shennong. Shennong says that a doctor on the move sees a lot of things, especially with conspicuous students like you two. Benten mentions she was once really into the visual kei aesthetic and dressing up in bandages, though Shennong stops her from saying anything more on that and is baffled she seems proud of that memory. Benten smirks and insists that she has no shameful past whatsoever. She goes back on that after a moment and changes it to 'mostly' not having a shameful past, and you either wonder what happened, ask to hear about it next time, or call Shennong a cheater. C gets an extra line where Shennong gets alarmed and tells you to stop making him sound bad, though he does note that adults have certain things that went on in their past.

 

Anyways, Shennong decides to change the subject and asks Ebisu how the food is coming out. Ebisu answers that everything is on track, and the things that would take time were already prepped at home. You either express excitement and say Ebisu's cooking is great, or you express amazement at his prep work. Ebisu laughs and says he picked up a really nice sea bream, then asks you to look forward to what he'll make tomorrow. Shennong nods saying it sounds like there's going to be some fancy food, so he's getting excited about it. Ebisu says it'll be great, mentioning the osechi he makes for New Year's is always a big hit.

 

Shennong asks if tonight's dinner is going okay, just in case. Bovines are big eaters, so he's concerned about the possibility there isn't enough food. Ebisu assures him it'll be okay and says he's got that covered too. Shennong is glad that nothing is wrong with this end, which means he can focus on his own job. Taurus Mask greets you at this point and asks if your presence here means the banquet hall is clean. You shrug and say it is mostly, then ask about him being here in the kitchen instead of cleaning since you find that surprising.

 

Taurus Mask laughs and asks if it's that surprising, telling you that he often cooks when he goes on tour. Ebisu asks Taurus Mask to cut some vegetables thin, so Taurus Mask agrees and tells you guys to watch his technique. You are amazed by how quick and precise his knife work is and say his performance is cool. Shennong brings out a special herb he says was grown in a certain agricultural research facility, saying it tastes great if you stuff it into a chicken and whole roast it. Ebisu says he's not so good with Western dishes, so that's what the cook slimes are doing. He asks Shennong to put the herb into them.

 

Shennong gives directions to the cook slimes to put the herb into the chicken meat and cook them, then flips the oven switch on the slimes. He then comments on how convenient the slimes are to be automatic workers with complete functions over their stoves to ovens and whatever else is in them. That ghost kid hanging around slips in while Benten is impressed with how far science has come, and she decides to start fiddling with one of the cook slimes too. Ebisu tries to stop her and asks what she did, so Benten says she just pressed a button. Then she notices that the slime is making a weird noise.

 

The cook slime(s?) start blaring a siren, which surprised Taurus Mask as he asks why they're doing that and glowing. Ebisu asks Benten in alarm what she did since he's never seen them do this before. Benten protests against him making her sound like she's always causing trouble, then says she just pressed that one switch. Shennong notes that the cook slimes are starting to cook something, so he asks Ebisu what's in them. Ebisu starts saying it's something he's prepping for New Year's Eve, but before he gets out what that is the cook slimes start intoning about a hidden command mode and go into Snack Stealer Punishment mode. Taurus Mask says the slimes are attacking, so you guys have to stop them first, then think. Shennong agrees and asks everyone to just pacify the slimes as the episode battle begins. The story continues afterwards.

 

After the battle, things tune in with Taurus Mask calling out his Taurus Special Twist hold. The slime struggles while Taurus Mask says he won't let it run anymore. Benten is impressed that Taurus Mask is making a joint lock work on a slime, and Shennong starts asking what you guys should do since just holding the slimes won't solve anything. A ding cuts him off midsentence, which Ebisu recognizes after a moment and goes to check inside the slimes. After pulling whatever's out and cutting it up a bit, he turns around and declares that it's done.

 

You take a look and note that Ebisu had soba noodles inside the slimes, which you say are delicious after a taste. Benten is amazed at the mouthfeel of the noodles and asks Ebisu for more. Taurus Mask agrees with Benten and describes how firm the texture is and on the boil of the noodles. Shennong tries asking Ebisu what was in the cook slimes again since he was interrupted the first time, so Ebisu says he put in all the ingredients for soba. He also guesses the battle helped make the soba come out like great handmade noodles. Shennong is surprised and says that might be why the body of the noodles turned out like so.

 

Benten says this means the noodles being great is thanks to her and tells you, Shennong, and Ebisu to thank her. Shennong reluctantly agrees and says if the food is good then that's all that matters. He then goes no thoughts and sticks to saying the noodles are great to himself for a while. You either agree that the noodles taste great, decide to go head empty, or comment that the slimes seem calm now. Shennong nods, saying it'd be rude to pick at the details when you can have some good soba. Anyways, Shennong says that with the hot springs and soba done, all that's left is to wait for sunrise. He hopes nothing else will happen though, and after going through a mental checklist he asks how the entrance cleaning went.

 

Scene cuts to the front as Marduk turns up, saying he heard that there's going to be a gathering of bulls here but cannot stay quiet as someone from Babel (re: the Great Gate), then calls out asking if anyone is there. Narration notes that he's the last bull to show up. That ghost kid floats around outside while your guys' night goes on with much bustle and noise. In the end, will you guys get a good omen at this rate? And so the episode ends.

Sunrise New Year Episode 2 Part 1

Things pick up outside the inn as Benten turns up, urging Ahab and Ebisu to keep on going a little more. Ahab is panting hard as he continues walking, saying a sailor like him isn't suited to going around on shore. Ebisu complains and asks Benten to help him since he was the only one pushing Ahab from behind this entire time. Benten protests that she's never carried anything heavier than her biwa, and then protests that she's totally got a handle on her navigation job and that they are SO rude to insinuate otherwise. Ahab sighs and says her navigation is why they're late though. Ebisu thinks the same thing but says he won't say it to her face.

 

You can hear their voices coming from the entrance, so you go over to look. Benten says she's totally got the right place this time, seventh time's the charm! You welcome them to the inn that awaits the bulls, or you suggest Benten's a disaster if it took her seven tries to get here. In A, Benten just smiles. In B, Benten is surprised that you heard her say that part and wonders if she said it too loudly. Ahab and Ebisu are just done either way.

 

In any case, Ebisu starts asking for water while Ahab asks for a damn drink whether it be booze or water, just make it snappy. You bring the water and comment on Ahab making it in, and Ebisu thanks you and says he's feeling a lot better after he chugs his water. Ahab says the water is great after he drinks his, though booze would have been better. But as to the other point, of course he'd come if you mention good luck superstitions because sailors are all about that. He wasn't expecting this to happen all the way up a mountain though, and he mentions getting lost and getting chased by wild boars. Speaking of boars, Ahab gives you some boar meat and fish he picked up on the way.

 

Ebisu talks about his amazement at Ahab's spear handling techniques for a moment before he remembers to properly greet you now. Ahab starts asking for alcohol and directions to the baths, figuring he may as well enjoy himself with those since he's come all this way. He then proceeds to slump over, so Benten starts bugging him to wake back up saying he looks so cool out in the sea but then turns into this lame mess on land. She also mentions that Makara told her about how Ahab tends to sleep all day when he's on land so he asked her to get him to move. Ahab gets annoyed and says he caught a goddamn boar so now he wants to go to the baths, then hiccups to Benten and Ebisu's surprise.

 

You ask Ahab if he's already been drinking, and Benten says she thought it was weird how Ahab had been nursing his canteen. She shrugs it off and greets you, saying luck must be swinging your way since you got to see her. Ebisu also asks how you're doing, then says that he's already tired even though he just got here. You comment that Benten's the same as ever, say things are rough as always for Ebisu, and/or say you're glad they could come. Benten laughs and says she just had to come when she heard there'd be a New Year's party, figuring it'll be time for her to rock out on her biwa. Ebisu explains he was asked by Gyumao to come cook for the party. He also mentions that he brought in help that he borrowed from the Ueno guild, and said help is in the form of some cook slimes.

 

Shennong comes over to check out what all the noise is, and when he sees Ebisu he asks if he's the cook Gyumao had been talking about. Ebisu confirms as such, then introduces Benten and Ahab to him. Shennong takes note that Ahab is drunk soon after and asks if he's okay. Benten shrugs and figures it should be fine since Ahab has a handle on things when he's on board his ship. And when he's not on his ship, him being buzzed is his default state of being.

 

Shennong does a quick exam of Ahab by looking in his mouth and checking his pulse, then briefly considers giving a shot before deciding against it. When the exam is done, he says Ahab just looks tired and is barely, barely on the healthy side. He tries to suggest that Ahab cut down on the drinking, then advises him against going into the hot springs in the inn while drunk. Ahab takes great interest in there being hot springs and starts looking for them, so Shennong tries to repeat himself about not going in yet. This falls on deaf ears as Ahab runs off, so Shennong sighs about having to go after him. Before he does though, he remembers to stick around long enough to tell Ebisu where the kitchen is. There's a banquet hall where the others are if he can't find it, so he can ask them. He'll go after Ahab and assures Ebisu it'll be fine because you're coming to help search.

 

You are briefly surprised to be shanghaied into looking for Ahab, but you agree that he shouldn't be left on his own so you roll along with it. Shennong tells Ebisu everything about the cooking will be left up to him, and this is partly because Shennong himself can't help with that. He adds in a small whisper and a wry smile that the poison coming from his body would cause numbness. Ebisu says he can do it and asks you guys to take care of Ahab.

 

Benten decides she'll go with Ebisu, and since she's feeling peckish she asks Ebisu to make her some snacks. Ebisu is shocked at the idea of her coming with him, so Benten assures him she'll help out and brings up that time she made everyone's tongue tingle when the Seven Lucky Gods were together. Ebisu says that was a legitimate problem and begs her to not do anything in the kitchen if she wants anything good to eat. Shennong then turns to you and suggests going after Ahab. You agree and refer to him as Sensei or by name. B gets an extra line where he reminds you to use the title again.

 

Scene shifts over to the hot springs where Ahab is, who is pissy that the things are empty. Asterios is already there and is surprised by Ahab barging in, so he asks if he's another bull who was invited over. You and Shennong turn up around that point as Shennong comments on how all bulls are great at charging around. Shennong then apologizes to Asterios for the surprise and introduces Ahab to him. Asterios goes oh at that and says that all the other bulls are loud guys, so that scared him.

 

Shennong laughs and says that's true, then asks Asterios how the hot springs are doing since he heard that they wouldn't fill out even when someone tried using the valves. Since Asterios is good with DIY home improvement, Shennong figured he if anyone could sort it out. Asterios answers that he just finished his inspection but didn't find anything wrong with the pipes or valves. Shennong asks if he can think of any other reasons for the problem to be happening then, so Asterios suggests that it's a problem with something they can't see since he checked everything visible. Maybe something invisible got stuck inside.

 

You wonder about something transparent being stuck in the pipes, and Ahab is disappointed his plans for having a drink in the bath is stuck on hold. He hits the pipe and demands that the water come out, and Asterios talks about his arms being too big to fit into the pipes. He wonders what you guys could do instead for a moment until he hears some weird noise coming. A bunch of slimes pop out, surprising Shennong into asking where they came from. That one ghost kid slips in and says something to the slimes, who are confused at first but then turn hostile.

 

Ahab starts laughing and asks what the slimes are doing when they jump at him and start crawling all over him and tickling him. You start laughing too since the slimes have jumped onto you as well and are doing the same thing. The slimes have gotten onto everyone really, and Shennong says in between laughs that he can't think like this. He does manage to tell everyone to take off their clothes and get the slimes off though. Everyone present switches to their swimsuits, and you say you're ready now.

 

Shennong sighs, saying he's glad he had his swimsuit underneath his clothes since he heard there'd be cleaning to do for the baths. He then focuses back on the situation at hand and says you guys can't leave the slimes alone. The slimes jiggle menacingly, and Asterios says these slimes are slimier than other slimes, so he asks how you guys can catch them. The slimes' actions have sobered Ahab up, and he hands some things to Shennong and Asterios, referring to them as bulls since he doesn't know their names.

 

Asterios is surprised at being handed a net and asks if Ahab brought it with him. Ahab explains he was thinking of fixing them up while he was on land, then tells Asterios to use the net to catch the slimes. Shennong comments on Ahab looking like a real man of the sea now and asks if that's his real look. Ahab orders Shennong to stop making small talk and get to dealing with the slimes. His hot springs and alcohol await! Shenong sighs but says he agrees on catching the slimes. If they don't have hot springs, Shennong figures people might freeze. Ahab swears to punish the slimes as the episode battle then begins. More story happens afterwards.

 

After the battle, things pick up with the slimes burbling midway through the fight, and they jump on Asterios and tickle him. Asterios laughs and asks why they keep doing this, so Shennong notices that the slimes seem to be eating something and starts having an idea about what's going on. That one ghost kid flickers around for a second, and Shennong notices something was around for a second and asks about it. Ahab doesn't give a crap and says to get them all at once as he attempts to fire off his NP. The moment he tries, one of the slimes slides up into him.

 

Ahab starts laughing again, so you try to ask if he's okay, though you notice after a moment that he seems to be enjoying it. Ahab says in between his laughs that this doesn't feel bad, and you see that the slimes are spreading themselves over him as you ask if they're eating the dirt off of him. Shennong says that's right and says the slimes have calmed down. He also suggests that the slimes have been living in the springs to begin with.

 

Asterios asks Shennong about what he means, so Shennong asks if people have ever heard of doctor fish or cleaner fish, which are fish which eat the dead skin and parasites off other organisms. He figures the slimes are the same sort of thing, only they stay in the springs and eat the dirt and sweat off of people. Shennong then brings out a pamphlet and points out it mentions that getting into the hot springs will refresh you. Asterios asks if it means the slimes and says he couldn't see them before since they were transparent. Shennong figures they must have plugged the pipes after Gyumao's inspection, though he's suspicious about how good the timing is for that.

 

Anyways, now that the slime thing is settled for the time being, Ahab is excited about the hot springs water turning up and orders you to tell Benten and Ebisu to get him some beer and snacks. You either are shocked that he's already lounging about or ask Shennong if this is okay. Shennong thinks for a moment and suggests getting him something nonalcoholic as thanks for the VIP of the battle. Ahab sighs about how nice the slimes feel, then suggests Asterios try them out. Asterios attempts to decline, only to start protesting when Ahab pulls him in until he falls in with a big splash. You either complain about wanting to go in, say you'll pour Ahab's drinks, or tell Asterios to keep Ahab occupied. In A and B, Ahab tells you to get with the pouring and laughs about being in a good mood. In C, Asterios complains about you ditching him and demands you get in too.

 

Anyways, Ahab says the slimes are cute once you get used to them, then tells them to keep scrubbing wherever they are on him. Asterios seems less welcoming of the slimes going over him as he laughs at the tickling and tells them to stop. Shennong sighs and expresses some envy, wishing he could get in too if it weren't for the poison in his body. The episode part then ends as Shennong says it's time to go to the kitchen if things are clean there.

 

Sunrise New Year Episode 1

This is a story of the New Year's holiday, and society is still going through the hustle and bustle of the twelfth month of the year. The story then tunes in over at Shinjuku as Gyumao's bull pirate assistant reports that they've arrived five minutes before their appointed meeting. He initially refers to Gyumao as Boss before remembering he's supposed to be saying CEO, then comments he's not used to using that title. Gyumao comments that hanging around schools a lot puts him in the mood of a gangster leader, then says they should keep going.

 

Time passes as Kengo, Ryouta, and Moritaka all look awkward as Shirou politely brings out some tea that isn't particularly high grade. You guys are in the dorm's dining room were Gyumao is sat in his business suit. There's a tense mood in the air that isn't usually there, and Gyumao deftly picks up the tea with one of his big hands. He complements the tea and talks about how tea warms the body during the cold times of the year. You either say Shirou's tea is special, comment on how cold it is today, or politely say Gyumao's doing well at his work.

 

In A, Shirou gets a bit shy as he thanks you, then mentions it's just cheap economy bulk size tea. Gyumao laughs and says he's really making it worth more than that. He says it's not the monetary cost, but the hospitality that makes him happy. In B or C, Gyumao laughs and says that's business as usual for him. He works hard even if it cuts into his sleep or if it's freezing outside. He's glad for your appreciation though, saying it gives him motivation for his business.

 

Anyways, Gyumao apologizes for the sudden visit. It may be a bit self-centered of him, but he says it's hard for him to move his schedule much at this time of the year. Kengo starts asking why the meeting is happening here at the dorm and is baffled at how out of place Gyumao looks in his suit. Gyumao says he doesn't have much freedom at this time of year, then asks you guys to think of the appointments he makes as a definite thing. Moritaka says he doesn't know much about what being a CEO means, but he asks if he gets busy when December rolls around. Gyumao explains he takes the hands on approach, so one reason for him being that busy is his tendency to stick his nose in everything. There are people like Ophion who delegate work to others though, and he laughs about how everyone has their own ways of doing things.

 

The gang start thinking about Tsathoggua, and Ryouta comments that's totally how Tsathoggua is what with him dumping all the work onto his slime minions. Gyumao says he's heard that the minions are a part of Tsathoggua's body, then comments on how fascinating they are. But anyways, Gyumao changes the subject to talk about why he's here, then shows you guys a picture of what he explains is one of his business's properties.

 

Shirou asks if it's a picture of a Japanese inn when he looks, and he tries to be polite as he comments that it's seen some years. Kengo is far less tactful and calls the place a dump. Gyumao laughs at how refreshingly direct it is and tells you guys he thought the same thing. He explains that it's a long-standing business that shut down about half a year ago, at which point he bought the place to flip it around by rebuilding and remodeling it. You ask if it's because he thinks he can still use it, ask if it still has property value, or ask if this is some sort of hobby. C gets an extra bit where Gyumao asks that you not misunderstand him and insists he still stands by his eye for things. Then Shirou asks if Gyumao sees some value in the place.

 

Anyways, Gyumao nods and says he believes so. He's been working on getting the place back up for reopening next year, which includes a full site inspection, updating the furniture and bedding, advertising through travel agencies, and opening up bus tours. Shirou brings up that it sounds like everything is going okay, so he asks if there's something is up with the inn. Gyumao confirms this and says he forgot about the important part, then points at Moritaka calling him the old-fashioned one as he asks what he thinks.

 

Moritaka is surprised at suddenly being roped into the conversation like this, and he tries thinking about what happens after the prep is done when he remembers something to do with waterfalls. Gyumao says he's correct as he brings up having a fortune reading done according to Tokyo's culture. Moritaka flaps his gum in shock at this, and Gyumao goes on to talk about the fateful coincidence that it's the year of the ox coming up. He rants about adjectives like great and powerful and how appropriate they are for bulls, declaring that he'll get Tokyo citizens and Transients with connections to bulls to help him. That is the business of Tokyo, a prayer in accordance to the Chinese zodiac style he yells! He gets so passionate about this that he bursts out of his suit and pants after that. You either comment on how forceful the presentation is, be surprised he flexed his clothes apart, or compliment his muscles for looking great as always. C gets an extra line where Gyumao is flattered by your response and says he doesn't forget to work out even after becoming a CEO.

 

Gyumao puts a new suit back on, apologizing and says this regularly happens out of habit in his presentations. Kengo is shocked to hear this and comments that Gyumao must run up a lot of clothing costs. Gyumao changes the subject and says he came to ask for the gang's help, and he hopes you guys will introduce him to other bull-related people. Shirou is surprised at how sudden that request is given that the New Year's holiday is really soon. Gyumao says it's fine for you guys to just get whoever you can available as he plans on giving every courtesy he can. Since you guys are connected to like every school and guild, he'd like to rely on you guys and asks if you can have a bit of optimism. You turn to ask the gang what they think and add you guys are always getting favors from people. They think for a bit, then smile back at you.

 

Time then skips to New Year's Eve morning. Taurus Mask and Wakan Tanka are the first to show up at the school, and Wakan greets you saying he'll always come running if you ask for him. Taurus Masks says he's here for a special appearance on New Year's Eve, then laughs and says it's nice weather for a special pro wrestling performance. Tetsugyuu and Asterios show up next, and Tetsugyuu announces his presence first before telling you today's looking nice out for a raid. Asterios says he didn't want to come down from the mountains when things would be crowded, but he came here for you.

 

Gyumao greets the guys and apologizes for the early call, then says he'll be traveling with them as the one in charge of things today. Taurus Mask notices that Asterios is here and proclaims that this must be fate for them to see each other. Asterios is less pleased about Taurus Mask being here and tells him to stay away. Wakan Tanka steps in to try to mediate as he frames the day as a joyous occasion to work together. Tetsugyuu sighs about the fuss and suggests ditching everyone else and going on a raid with the two of you.

 

You turn to Gyumao and ask what he thinks about the people who turned up and say it's already a mess. Gyumao laughs and takes it all in stride, saying they're exactly the type of talents he was looking for the other day. He suggests heading to the inn now and asks everyone to get in the bus outside the school. Gyumao then turns to the gang and asks if they're sure it's fine to have you go along with him. He's glad to have someone along who knows the others, though he's concerned you guys may be busy this time of year too.

 

Shirou tries to word his response politely, saying that since the people who came are a bunch of hot blooded guys, they figured it'd be fine if you went. Kengo laughs and figures you can corral them if anyone can, then adds that Four Eyes here worrying about stuff is the usual course of things. Gyumao starts commenting that the gang's earnestness towards work is also held in high esteem by Andvari, who he describes as someone in the same business, though he starts trailing off. You shrug and say just introducing him to people doesn't feel like much help from you and/or say you're used to holding the reins on everyone.

 

Ryouta says they'll take care of your share of the New Year's cleaning, and since you're going on a fortune thing, you might as well do your best with that. Moritaka mentions that they'd like to go too, but they still have cleaning to do. Gyumao doesn't respond at first, then sincerely thanks everyone and promises to make this job a success. You wave the gang bye and tell them you'll see them at New Year's. Gyumao turns to the others you called up and says it's time to get on the giant bus he had brought out. The four respond affirmatively in unison.

 

A bit of time passes and the camera lingers on the gang. Ryouta comments on how energetic everyone is and figures your stuff will be done in a flash. Moritaka comments that they can't fall behind either and says there's prep for New Year's Eve to do after the cleaning. Kengo notices that Shirou has some sealed envelope in his hands and asks what it is. Shirou starts explaining that he just got it from Gyumao, though before he says anything else about it the scene transition cuts him off.

 

Camera jumps to your end of things as Wakan Tanka comments on how he's reminded of the bus he takes for his sport. He also asks that people let him know if they're feeling sick. Tetsugyuu waves you over to him and asks you to sit next to him, offering tea or juice or any other drink he's got on hand. Taurus Mask wishes he could have a bus like this whenever he goes to his shows, even though he can send reports of matches to anywhere in Tokyo in an instant. Asterios is surprised that the bus isn't cramped even with him in it, and he admires the power it has even with all the bulls on board.

 

Gyumao laughs and asks if everyone likes the bus, saying it's a Flaming Mountain marked large bus equipped with a high powered engine. Gyumao's bull pirate assistant tries to ask Gyumao to take a seat in the back since he'll be driving, but Gyumao laughs and tells him to stop with the formalities saying his own driving is great. The assistant lets him have it, though he asks that Gyumao drive safely and not in a way that would give him flashbacks. Gyumao is unfazed as he says he'll handle it and says he can grab onto him in the meantime, then laughs loudly saying it's time to fly. The assistant gets alarmed as he tells Gyumao he's acting like his old self.

 

Time passes as the bus shakes on the way over, and eventually you guys hit up a mountain road. Soon you all reach the inn, and the bus parks in a parking lot with a great view of the area surrounded by mountains. Gyumao announces that you've all arrived once he gets to the building, and he prompts everyone to hurry in. Asterios is relieved to be here, saying he doesn't hate cars or anything, but the ride sucked. Taurus Mask stretches and comments on how cool the mountain air is, saying it's making his mind and body stiffen up. Wakan Tanka comments that the mountain spirits are greeting you guys. You comment on how it really is cold like the winter there despite the lack of snow, then note how sad the inn looks.

 

Gyumao mentions that this inn is in the mountains in the southern part of Tokyo and says he heard it used to do well for a long time. He also mentions that there's a confirmed overworld shift in the mountains around and that evidence of it has been reported. Taurus Mask asks if the source of this shift is the inn, but Gyumao says that it isn't according to the reports. The rest of the party is surprised by this, so Gyumao says the inn's owner, hostess, and workers have all worked bravely to protect the inn from otherworldly beings. They'd say wild boars are scary, but Gyumao also shows you a picture of the owner and hostess making peace signs in front of a mountain of things from other worlds they've beaten.

 

You comment on feeling the strength of humanity coming through it, then ask why the inn shut down if that's the case. Gyumao has to check his notes, then says it seems that the owner had a slipped disk. Wakan Tanka comments on how awful infirmities of the mind and body are, saying that as someone in sports (re: competitive theory) he'd like to keep that in mind. Gyumao says that's why he came up with remodeling plans, and he adds that the owners wanted it to reopen. Wakan says that if they're looking forward, then he's happy with that. He also says you guys should do your best to handle this job.

 

Shennong walks up from further in, saying he came to check out what all the noise was. He tells you guys you did well getting this far, though the work will be starting from here though. You are surprised at Shennong being here and ask him about this since you didn't see him in the nurse's office. Gyumao laughs about this and asks if you're surprised, saying he found out about Shennong being your school doctor when he went asking around. Shennong is surprised in turn that Gyumao never told you about this and calls him mean.

 

Gyumao talks about how Shennong is from Hourai just like he is, and he's brought him in to be the on-site medic for the duration of this job. Shennong says he heard that there'd be Shinjuku students here too, so as someone well known he can't let this slip by. Wakan Tanka is surprised as he recognizes Shennong, and Shennong greets him and says he did well at that football game the other day.

 

You turn to Wakan Tanka in surprise and ask about him knowing Shennong too. Wakan answers that he knows Shennong well, saying he was on the first aid team for the football game that day. Shennong mentions that interschool games and contests have the first aid stuff divided between the doctors and preceptors of each school. That does mean he has to work on his off days too, which can be rough even if he won't let students get hurt if he can help it. But anyways Shennong introduces himself to the party as the temp doctor, telling everyone to be careful as he quotes a Chinese idiom about how caution does no harm.

 

Gyumao figures that everyone is here and is about to split up the tasks until he notices you looking restless and asks you if someone else is coming. You tell him that you tried calling someone else, but it seems they won't be coming. Gyumao remembers at this point that the person he called up to do the cooking here is also running late, though they aren't a bull. But he shrugs it off, saying if they can't get here in time then oh well. He then suggests getting started with the work.

 

Wakan Tanka looks surprised as he says nothing, which Tetsugyuu notices and asks if he's interested in the shimenawa ropes he's looking at. Wakan answers that he is, though he notes he's seen them a bunch of times already. The one here caught his attention for some reason, and he wonders what it's for. Taurus Mask says he was told about it once when he was younger and tries to remember, but it's become so common for New Year's that he can't remember what.

 

Shennong steps in and says it's for Toshigami. Asterios asks him about that, so Shennong explains that it's one of the New Year's customs in Tokyo. Toshigami comes out every year at this time, and they are a local Shinto deity that protects the land and home. Some Toshigami are said to be the spirits of ancestors for a family living in said home. Gyumao says he studied up on them when he came to Tokyo and says that's what the rope is for.

 

Shennong continues explaining that the kadomatsu New Year's pine decoration is a sort of landmark for Toshigami so that they don't get lost on the way to the entrance. Shimenawa ropes are shrine objects which disperse uncleanliness and act as a barrier to prevent impurities from getting in. If they're tied into a circle like the one Wakan Tanka was looking at, they act as an entrance that asks Toshigami to enter through there. And while he's on the subject, Shennong explains that kagami mochi is an offering while the other decorations around are patterned after the imperial regalia of Japan.

 

You think on the imperial regalia and comment on them having that meaning. Tetsugyuu sums up what everyone was talking about as a celebration welcoming ancestors. Shennong says that if he has the main idea then that's good enough. The first greetings of the new year are the same no matter who you address. Wakan Tanka says he understands and comments on grasping the atmosphere here. Tetsugyuu is confused as he points out that Wakan is looking away from the shimenawa entrance, and Wakan says he was just interested in something. Tetsugyuu is further confused and comments on how hard to get Wakan is.

 

Some time passes as Gyumao leads you guys to a big room that looks like it could be a banquet hall. He then stands in front of the party to start explaining about the job. The place you guys will be cleaning will be divided into three sections: the front entrance area, this room and another banquet hall, and the large public open air baths. The party will be split up between these sections, and while these areas are already somewhat cleaned, he'd like everyone to focus on handling the last finishing touches.

 

Tetsugyuu is disappointed that for all of Gyumao's talks about making prayers and junk, it's all coming down to cleaning the place. Shennong says that getting rid of dirtiness is the same as getting rid of impurities, which is what praying is all about. Gyumao says he'll assign where each person will go and asks that everyone get started with the cleaning, and he'll be starting with himself.

 

Time passes and you have been assigned to the banquet halls together with Gyumao, Wakan Tanka, and Tetsugyuu. When you four approach the hall, Gyumao's assistant runs up in a panic. He babbles something about one of the halls as he calls Gyumao Boss, so Gyumao insists on CEO instead of Boss before asking what the problem is. The pirate assistant yells something about the tatami mats before giving up and asking you guys to come see.

 

When you guys get to the party hall in question, you find a bunch of dust slimes jumping around and kicking the tatami floor mats about. What was supposed to be neatly spread about is scattered around, flipped, turned upside down. Gyumao demands to know what the hell is going on and what the slimes are. The assistant says as best he can tell, the slimes slipped under the mats when the old staff were laying them down. They pop up like whack-a-moles, and any time he tries to get rid of them they run back underneath the mats.

 

Gyumao sighs about how the slimes running and hiding beneath the tatami mats is making this all very complicated. Tetsugyuu suggests grabbing them along with the mats then and says he and you could just cut through the mats when Gyumao stops him in shock and tells him to refrain from property damage as much as possible. Wakan Tanka says it'll be hard with the mats in the way and wishes there weren't any obstacles on the field. You think about how to avoid damaging the mats despite the slimes using them to hide, so you suggest the idea of getting rid of them temporarily. Gyumao's assistant protests how crazy that idea is given how many there are, so you turn to Tetsugyuu and ask him to help you, say Wakan can probably do something, and tell Gyumao you have a plan. The three look back at you in confusion.

 

Your explanation gets offscreened as the story skips over it to the part where Tetsugyuu compliments your plan and says he's proud. He says it'll be hard to hold back, but he'll try as he throws out his NP. The tornado he makes starts sucking up the tatami mats into it, then somehow pastes them up against the ceiling and leaves the floor bare. The pirate assistant is shocked by this turn of events, as are three dust slimes who are suddenly exposed. Gyumao points out that they're gathered at the other end of the hall. Wakan Tanka refers to this as the start of the game and says he'll catch them. He also says he needs to get them while the mats are still up in the air, so you ask him why.

 

Wakan Tanka explains that the mats hurt when they'll fall. Some spirit thing briefly flickers around the dust slimes, which Wakan seems to notice but says nothing about. Tetsugyuu gets irritated at him staring into space and tells him to get on with it before the mats come crashing down. Wakan says he has a point, then adds they'll go in strong as he calls himself and you buffalo. Tetsugyuu says he's also connected to bulls and says he'll work with Wakan. Gyumao slips into his gangster speech patterns as he orders the party to end things quick, and you respond as you call him boss, call him by name, or tell the guys to get started as the episode battle launches. More happens after that.

 

After the battle, the story tunes in with the slimes trying to run while Wakan Tanka attempts to make them sit still and explain themselves. He calls out his NP and charges ahead. He succeeds in catching Something hiding behind the slimes' shadows, but at that moment you call out to Wakan to watch out above him. When he looks, the tatami mats start falling down.

 

Gyumao calls to Wakan Tanka and asks if he's okay since five mats fell on him. Wakan gets back up and says it was his mistake to not look up earlier. You ask if he's okay and if he was trying to catch something that wasn't the dust slimes. Wakan is quiet for a moment before apologizing for worrying you guys and saying he's fine since he's a tough boy. He also laughs about something escaping so he lost this game. Gyumao notes that you guys have caught the slimes now and says they seem different from normal ones. You either ask if they're a new type of slime, say you think you've seen them before, or go head empty and say they're just hard to describe. C gets an extra line where Gyumao is curious about your reaction and comments that he won't ask, although he does get the feeling they're connected to the dark side of Roppongi or something.

 

Some time later, Wakan Tanka suggests putting the tatami mats back in order. Tetsugyuu is less than thrilled by this idea given how many mats there are. Wakan assures him that it'll be fine since the two of them are buffalo, which prompts Tetsugyuu to freak out saying he's been thinking for a while now that Wakan is hard to talk to and beg you for help. You say that Wakan is a good senpai when it comes down to it and that Tetsugyuu is hard to talk to at times too. You also suggest that they might work out great together, shocking Tetsugyuu even further.

 

Gyumao starts talking to you saying he has a favor to ask, and he asks you to tell the others about what's happened here. Sometimes he wishes things were just coincidences, and he comments that you never know what'll happen here in Tokyo. Gyumao says it's better to be safe than sorry, then asks you to go while he takes care of the others. You agree as you either refer to Gyumao as CEO or Boss. A has Gyumao laugh and thank you as he says that's a good answer. B has Gyumao ask you not to call him that too much since everyone's energy makes him remember some old memories, then laughs. Either way, Tetsugyuu calls out to Gyumao that something is coming from under the tatami mats, and Gyumao reacts in surprise when he goes to look. Narration questions whether things will be okay as the night goes on, and the episode ends.