Reminds me a bit of 'Chen's Story', which sadly isn't on here.

https://danbooru.donmai.us/pools/3416

I just learned Ran means indigo, nicee

So, what, Yukari somehow used Ran to make the original barrier? Or something? But she's also a shikigami?

Them whiskers tho

Basically, during the creation of Gensokyo all kind of youkai were "invited" to enter, including the nine tailed fox - a symbol of destruction and bad omen. Yukari obviously didn't want to just let it in and ruin her masterpiece. So she got herself a convenient little kitsune shikigami to use as a trap for the big fox. Poor Ran ... But then Suika reminded Yukari about Yuyuko's fate, which ironically resembles Ran's ... So Yukari was like "Meh, I'm getting too soft" and instead of using Ran as a tool, she decided to keep herself a pet.

Okay, I kind of get it. Thanks.

It does seem a bit depressing and sad but little Ran is so adorable that it makes it alright. esp since she's free at the end

I'm confused in the end until I've read aryahime's comment. Now I'm just 50% confused.

That aside, I do like the Yukari x Ran shown here, with Yukari being more adult-like while Ran is a kid