>"Well, let's see it then?"> "It's not something to show you here, so that would ruin the surprise." Shinki states. "And... It might take a little bit to get to the surprise, unless you get to it first."
>"...Could you clarify, please?"> "It's not something you'll need to worry about just yet. But you might like it when it does come up. That's what I'm saying." Shinki smiles.
>How do we traditionally refer to her? Shinki? You Majesty? Mom?
>"Perhaps, then, it's time I made arrangements for a real visit?"> "Maybe Maybe~" Shinki says with some excitement.
>"Alright. I'll come as soon as we can get things together."
>Try to will ourself awake.
> unless you get to it first? clearly shinki is just messing with you> "Then it won't take as long for it to happen. I'm sorry that there's not more to it that I can reveal." Shinki says.
> ask anyway
> "wait, but shinki, what happens if i really do get to your surprise first?"
> if it's something you're "going to like", it could be doll or magic related
> you can not will yourself awake, it seems. either it's part of doremy's plan or eientei is really good at making pills
> assume the latter, because it's best not to think about all that while having such a peaceful dream
> just enjoy the dream
>
>
> that's pretty strange. you're awake now, or at least it seems.
> you turn around
> it's just grass under you
>
>
> that's pretty strange. you're awake now, or at least it seems.
> you turn around
> it's just grass under you
>"Mmm, Meiling?"//Ah yes. It's not exactly an RP. You do control the main character, but what succeeds, the results of things and the other characters and environment, are controlled by me.
>Does she still seem to be under the effects of the mushrooms?
This is Neovereign's game to run. We're just players, not calling the shots.
>Ah, perhaps there was a permanent effect?> She may only be grown with her own abilities, like before. But if that's true, she shouldn't really be able to hold you like this in her lap... Perhaps there was a permanent effect.
>"I'm fine, I'm fine. I think we've gotten to the bottom of things. What's been happening while I was away?"
>No need to move from this lovely spot just yet.
>Glance toward the faerie. "Perhaps she was afraid to have jostled me too much. Regardless, I'm fine now. Thank you for trying to help Meiling, though. That was very kind of you."> The fairy gives a bit of a salute.
>Look back to Meiling, "How long has it been?"
>Do we feel decently rested?
>"Pretty well. Actually, um..."> "Huh. Mom?"
>Mumble, "Mom kinda wants to meet you..."
>"Ugh, don't tell her I said that! But yeah. In Makai."> "Oh. I see. Maybe I should try to get even more time than this to go out."
>"I'm sure we can arrange something. In the meantime, how did the experiment go?"> "Ah. I've still been eating them. It hasn't lasted longer or shorter. We still have quite a few though... By the way, did you sleep well? Trying to get back to... less panicked conversation."
>How large is Meiling now? Both in height and in bust.
//That's what I've been doing since the Patchy Quest days. Though in my case, it's information I don't want to be public. And I never record enough, people are outright talented at asking for something I didn't think to note down> "Ah, no. You don't seem cranky or anything. Maybe you slept for much longer than I thought? Did an entire night pass?"
>"Pretty well. I hope I didn't mumble in my sleep or something."
>"I think only you can answer that, honey. Have you been sitting here, eating mushrooms for many hours now?"> "It's only felt like an hour." Meiling puts a finger to her chin, before holding up another mushroom pair.
>Chuckle.> "...Not at all, ahaha..."
>"And I suppose you haven't been keeping count of your mushrooms, hm?"
>"Well, no worries there. How do you feel, having had so many?"> "Getting pretty tired of eating them... Could at least go for some water..."
>Laugh> "Have I now? Or maybe you're just happy to see me again. I wonder if the lake tastes well. I guess I have no room to complain seeing as I have little other good choices."
>"Well, if you want to stop, I suppose it's fine. I swear you've gotten even bigger since I went to sleep. And, well, 'bigger'"
>Mime her enlarged chest with our hands.
>"And if you want a drink, frankly I think you could probably reach the lake from here."
>"Well, I am happy to see you again, but I think it's both things!"> "Here we go, then."
>Chuckle.
>"I can't imagine the lake is any different than the rest of the water we drink."
>"Be sure that you didn't gather up anything in it!"> Meiling brings it closer to herself... Before starting to drink out of her hands.
>Just watch the sight and admire our big beautiful paramour.> You watch in relaxation...
>"I just can't get enough of you..."
>Chuckle.> "I might be hoping that as well. It's pretty nice to have you like this. But I would miss having you closer to my size after a while."
>"Is it wrong I kind of hope you've had enough mushrooms to make this permanent?"
>"Well, once you are ready, I'll be happy to close the gap a little. But only once you're ready."> "Alright. What will we do now? I could practice in getting bigger more, but this experiment is already going on."
>"Well, for now, let's take it easy. And figure out how we're going to get to you enough time off to visit Makai."> "There's the idea of putting in a lot more work, maybe. But that'd still take a while to get results..."
>"And I don't like you having to work even harder to have a vacation, anyways. That feels backwards to me."> "Hey now, I should be able to at least scare off others more like this. ...But some alternative would be nice, yeah..."
>"I suppose the best thing we can do is talk to Remilia and see what she thinks."
>"Oh, no doubt you're vastly more effective at your job, now."> "Yeah. Hey, you haven't tried to give these to Remilia, right? Maybe we can show her how these are, in exchange for some time?"
>Take a moment to appreciate the unintended word place, smirk a bit.
>"I'm sure she will be pleased with that."
>"Hm, that's not a bad idea! Would it be alright for me to enter the mansion and inquire?"> "Sure. If you think you can get up." Meiling smiles. "Oh, I guess one of you guys could go with her, to make sure no one tries to kick her out. Also to say that I allowed her in."
>"If it will be a problem, I don't mind waiting. I wouldn't want to reflect poorly on you."> "I'm sure it'll be fine with one of the fairy maids. They've been getting a bit more credible."
>Reminder: How do we get on with Sakuya?
>Look to the faeries. "So, who wants to come with me?"> "We'll do it." Two of them volunteer.
>"Great, I'll need the two of you to help me get around!"> "How many do you want?" Meiling digs into the bag.
>"Could hand me a couple mushrooms, Meiling?"
>"Three or four should do. Sakuya might want some."> "Ooh. Interesting." Meiling tosses four pairs over your way.
>Take the mushrooms, and start to climb down Meiling's leg and onto the mansion grounds, then make for the front doors.> With mushrooms in tow, you start through the mansion's doors.
>How much of the mansion is actually large enough for us, presuming we crawl or creep through doors and down hallways?
>Let's just get through the front doors for now.> You crawl into the mansion, hearing the fairies follow behind you.
>Look back toward the faeries. Sit up if we can. Just stay kneeling if we can't.> You can't, so you settle for just looking back.
>"Where would Lady Scarlet be right now?"
>Mmm, it probably is still early int he morning.> "Sure thing. Follow me." One of the two speaks, before heading down the hall.
>"Can you show me the way to her room?"
>Crawl after that faerie, taking care to not bump into anything.> You follow, though find yourself at a problem when the fairy heads up a staircase...
>Do the stairs look like they can hold our weight? And does our girth look like it will fit between the bannisters?> The former, maybe. The latter, no.
>Let's try to fly up it, over the bannisters, and use our hands to guide us.> You begin to try to fly up instead, though there's still hardly any space to move around...
>"I wouldn't want to force her to come meet me. But...perhaps it is necessary..."> It might not be too late to back out, but maybe it could be better to progress...
>Let's just try not to get stuck.
>Let's take a moment and assess whether it is better to go forward or back. There's no hurries and we definitely don't want to damage anything.> While it would be easier to go to Remilia directly for the situation, you're already still in the lower area, and don't know how spacious the upper will be. If there's little to no clutter in the halls, progressing would be better.
>We'll just back down for now.> You settle down for now.
>"I'm not intending to be. But, I suppose if Meiling needs a day off and she asks me, I might take her place from time to time?"> "Ooh. I wonder how you'll keep intruders out."
>"Well, I can just sit in front of the gate. Perhaps set up a few dolls to keep watch in other directions."> "That sounds like it'd do a great job. Meiling says we're a help when we keep watch in other directions too."
>"Oh, I imagine."> "She was great and cool. But now she's even greater and cooler. She makes me feel small though... Well, more than usual."
>Chuckle appreciatively.
>"So what do you think of her, now?"
>"Feeling small isn't a bad thing, as long as you don't feel that way because someone is being mean to you."> "Being bigger looks like it's much better than being smaller though."
>All we can really do is chuckle in response. We can't comment there.> You give a light chuckle to the fairy's plight, looking for who might be coming.
>Look toward the oncoming steps.
>"Just so, Lady Scarlet. I was coming to call on you, but...ah, it's a little difficult for me, as you can see."> "You're not stuck, are you?" Remilia expresses a bit of concern, though it sounds like it's mostly for her mansion.
>"I'll need a moment. And perhaps some extra eyes."> "Hmm... Well, since you're here and I'm not that busy at the moment..." The mistress puts her hands on her hips. "Your business with me?"
>"Meiling would like to take some time off, given circumstances."> "Circumstances?" She frowns a bit.
>"Partially so she has some time to explore her new size. And I was hoping she could accompany me on a journey I am about to undertake."> Remilia closes her eyes for a few moments of thought...
>Smile. "Thank you very much, it is most kind of you."> The mistress of the mansion considers again.
>"May I know about that interest?"
>"Ah. You wish to see who may or may not respect the Mansion's privacy. That makes sense."> "Hmhmm, I'll be keeping that a secret."
>"If I may, might I ask about the history between you two? Her loyalty is something to behold."
>"Surely you can tell me a little. If not how it all came to be, at least a little about you time together?"> "The daily routine with her has been the same for a long while now. There have been some occurrences here and there, but no great events stand out. From what we've experienced in Gensokyo, Meiling must be quite bored since we came here."
>"Did that concern you? I mean, back before she tapped into her potential?"> "She's shown her worth early on. I don't usually have much worry for her performance."
>"No no, I meant the idea that the routine is getting to her."> "Ah. I would have liked for something to spice up our days. Something she could be active in, for example."
>Nod.> "She's out there for longer than she actually needs to be. She likes it better than to wander the mansion or visit any of the others' rooms."
>"Just how long does she tend to be out there, anyways?"
>"Interesting. Has she ever said why?"> "I think she shows it a lot, actually. The exercises she does outside, and how she likes to talk with those that pass by."
>Nod thoughtfully.> Remilia nods with a "yes she has.", almost proud of such.
>"Has she always been like that?"
>Chuckle appreciatively. It's good to be proud of those we care about.> "Ah. She has been a part of our family for a long time. That could be one of her reasons."
>"I can say she is certainly worried about leaving. I was discussing making a home for both of us, and she was unhappy with the idea of leaving, even if she came back for work each day."
>"That it would."> "Not very much. The way she is made it easy enough for everyone else to warm up to her. Perhaps her kindness, you could say."
>"Hm, now that I'm thinking about it, did she have any difficulty fitting in with your household?"
>"I don't have trouble believing that. Has she always been a guard here?"> "That's been her only profession here. Well, she does take care of the gardens as well..."
>"Well, I imagine she'll be quite the landscaper now."> "That is her choice. Though I do hope she doesn't start thinking of moving the entire mansion or parts of it."
>"I don't think she would. But, it is an option you have now."> "I wouldn't want it moved from here just yet either." Remilia expresses.
>Chuckle. "True, true. But now you have the option without having to make Patchouli do it."> "Hmm... Am I to trust you'll say it in a way she'll understand and enjoy?"
>"So, how shall I phrase your order?"
>"I'll do my best at that, of course."> "Is that all, then?"
>"Well. How has Sakuya taken all this? I would not want to bother her while she's at work?"> "It has not bothered her much. I don't expect it will too much either."
>Nods.> "Hmm... Maybe I'd give it a go when I have free time. Though I'd expect mass confusion and surprise at me being at the gate instead. Not to mention having to use an aid against the sunlight for part of the day..."
>"I suppose there is one more thing. Might you like to try it yourself?"
>"Oh no, I didn't mean the gate guarding."> "Hm? Then do you mean tending to the gardens?"
>"I mean enhancing yourself, if only for a short time."> "Oh. I'm not quite sure about that. I don't want to end up stuck somewhere."
>"It would have to be a fairly extreme reaction for that to happen."> "Maybe, then. It is somewhat interesting."
>Have we managed to extract ourself from between the bannisters yet?> Yes.
>Sit back on our haunches, and fish out a pair of mushrooms. "All you need do is eat these."> You get back and carefully sit in the hall, retrieving the pair of Mushrooms Meiling provided.
>"Just eat them."> You echo Remilia's words.
>"Feeling anything?"> "It's an alright snack." Remilia begins to flash.
>"They are about to take effect, brace yourself!"> "Wait, what do you mean brace myself? Am I going to explode or something?" Remilia questions.
>Let's try not to look too deep into those eyes...> You try to keep your focus away from Remilias eyes.
>"In a sense, yes."
>"They're rather powerful little things! I must say, you look quite a bit more elegant than how many tend to; they must fit you better, so to speak."> "That would be a given... How long does this usually last?" Remilia examines herself more.
>"Usually just a few minutes, but it can vary."> "These are probably pretty valuable then. What have you been collecting them for?"
>"Research purposes. Those Meiling has taken quite a liking to them."> "She's a bit busy at the moment, I recall..."
>"Hmm, I have an idea. Why not call Sakuya? I'm sure she would love to see."
>"Too busy to marvel at her mistress?"> "A certain someone would feel pretty bad if Sakuya was called over for my attention rather than theirs."
>Chuckle and nod. "I understand."
>"Oh ho. Shall we find them, instead?"> "We could. Though I can't guarantee we'll get there with much time left to... show this off."
"Oh, is she not in the household?"> "She is, but this is still a large one at that."
>"Then we should hurry."> "Let's see if I can't happen upon where they are now..." Remilia starts downstairs.
>Lets give her as much room as we can, then crawl behind.> You make a bit of way for Remilia, then try to follow. Though... you don't think you can get into that hallway like this.
Could be creep after her, or are our shoulders too wide?> You could not.
>"You'll have to go on without me."> "Hmm... I may be able to return with some time left if this isn't too short. But if not, is there something you hope for me to make use of there?" Remilia turns slightly.
>"Do what you feel is best. I think I have enough data. Feel free to report back, though."> "Hm. Alright then. Will you be alright with getting back out?" Remilia gestures the way you came.
>"I should be fine."> "Take care, then." Remilia continues onward...
>Let's head out. Unless we happen to cross paths with a certain maid on the way out.> You retreat, eventuality backing out of the main doors after a few uneventful moments.
>"She took to the mushrooms quite well!"> "How did she turn out? Compared to what you expected? Did she like it herself?"
>"Rather like the usual, but...moreso? She didn't just get larger, she developed more of a tall, elegant build. I daresay she was very pleased!"> "Nice. Very nice. I hope that makes a good impression on what we've been messing with!"
>"I think she's very pleased, oh yes. Sadly, I wasn't able to find Sakuya."> "Mm... She'll be available eventually if you stick around."
>"I'm sure she will be. But I'll need to at least go check on the dolls, soon."> "So you'll be leaving for now?"
>"You could come along. Remilia has said you are free to take a vacation, but on the condition that you don't just hang around the mansion the whole time while you're on it."> "Ah. I guess we got what we asked for huh..." Meiling gazes to the mansion.
>"You sound suspiciously unthrilled about it"> "Not being able to be near the mansion is pretty unfortunate. Even outside of the tasks I do here."
>"It'll be fine. We'll be together!"> "That does make up for quite a lot... And it's not like I'm permanently banned or anything. Actually, since you say I don't just hang around the mansion the entire time, does that mean we could still pop by for short moments?"
>What did she say, exactly?> She requested for Meiling to keep away from the mansion for a while. But that the residents at least weren't included as part of the mansion for this.
>"Visiting residents isn't a problem, but she would like you to be elsewhere for awhile."> "I guess that isn't too bad on it's own..."
>"I think she wants us to have time to get close~"> "And she doesn't want to witness it? Wellll, at least that suggest she's supportive of it."
>"I am sure she's happy for you!"> Meiling nods, before looking around a bit.
>"I am sure Shanghai and Hourai are getting antsy."> "Maybe they started reorganizing things in their boredom? Or maybe they're playing outside. Maybe just sleeping the days away?"
>"Well, we've only been gone the evening."> "So they're pretty tame and occupied most of the time?"
>"...Usually. And I don't want to hear a word as I casually look toward the direction of my cottage to make sure there isn't any smoke coming from that direction."> You speak dangerously and hope it doesn't lead anywhere. Meiling doesn't make a peep in the midst of your glance...
>Do so.
>"Okay. I think it's say to say they didn't burn the house down."> "There's still some time before you get home. They might manage in those minutes." Meiling jokes.
>"We best hurry, then."> "Do lead the way, please. Should I try to reduce my size any when we get there?"
>"...Can you do that?"> "It should work as doing the opposite of what I did in the first place, right? At least for the work that I did..."
>I don't know, it's one thing to use your ki to make your body flourish and be healthy enough to grow like that. I> "Hmm... You're right about that. Guess the only is forward with this."
m not sure of that same power can just destroy large parts of yourself. It's kind of contrary to what it does, isn't it?"
>Chuckle.> "I'm worried about how others will perceive it. If I suddenly grow two feet every night, what would they do..." Meiling ponders. "Ah, and there's having less things to enjoy at larger sizes. But maybe more things that can only be done at larger sizes would replace them?"
>"That's fine too, isn't it?"
"Certainly there are. And, it is under your control, isn't it?"> "Mhm. But we don't know of any way back. Or I don't, rather. You wouldn't happen to know how to shrink yourself, would you?"
>"I know how to cancel it, but I would never want to..."> "Cancel my growth? Not the part you've done so far?" Meiling starts moving towards the direction of the Forest of Magic.
>"Cancel my own, I mean."> You follow at her leisurely pace.
>Let's follow that redhead!
>"Just so. But I'm not worried, I think the amount of Meiling in the world right now is just right!"> "You wouldn't go for a second me if you could? I could for you. One to be around this often, and the other to deal with things where you can't be around. I've got enough control to not hog you every waking moment~. " Meiling boasts, her chin up as she steps through the Forest of Magic.
>"I don't think I am strong enough to handle more than one of you!"> "You have a lot of skill though. And surely the longer we hang around each other, the better you'd be able to take me."
>Laugh.> "You havent disappointed me in anything yet. Oh, now I'm curious to what you're actually bad at. Is there anything?" Meiling looks back to you in question.
>"You have a lot of confidence in me!"
>"Oh, lots of things, I'm sure~"> "Any of them you wanna share? Or will I have to find out myself?"
>"I'm bad with conflicts, and you need to turn a little bit in this direction."> "Eh? Are you really? And this way? For what?" Meiling questions, doing as requested.
>"You do cover a lot of space these days~"> "It really has been a couple days hasn't it? It feels like I've only been big for a short while. Well, better keep making use of it then."
>Chuckle> Meiling nods, following you as you make your way home.
>"Let's just check on the dolls, shall we?"
>Move to do just that, let's make sure the cottage hasn't burned down.
>Frown.> You scan the perimeter. Nothing looks out of place, but no dolls outside either.
>Peer around the house a little.
>Frown more.> You peer into a few of the windows.
>Peek in through the windows.
>"Shanghai? Houria? Are you alright?"> There's silence for but a moment, before Hourai comes into view of the window.
>Smile now.> "Did you come back to get something" The doll questions, looking around the outside.
>"That's good. I hope you two don't mind a late morning."
>"I wanted to be sure the two of you were doing well. And I'm certain you wanted to know if things worked out or not?"> "Being big, the mushrooms, or something else?"
>"The dreams, silly."> "Oh. Did they? Ah, I should probably bring Shanghai to hear too."
>"Please do."> Hourai ducks back out of view...
>Scootch over to the front door and have a seat in front of it.> You take a seat over towards the front, with Meiling having already settled down further back behind you.
>"Good morning, Shanghai. I trust the both of you were on your best behavior while watching over the house?"
>"Aww, didn't you rest well?"> "That, and being a bit conservative of energy now." Shanghai nods. "Do you need us?"
>"I suppose we don't need you. But you are my little darlings and I like to have you around."> "Oh, we're going to be accompanying you again?"
>"If you don't mind. If you're not feeling up to it, I don't mind if you stay home. But...we're planning to visit Makai soon."> "We could, but you don't want us to keep busy with the house?" Shanghai asks.
>Nod.> "You've got to value your time after all!" Shanghai throws an encouraging grin out.
>"I would like to show you two to the Goddess of Makai, though. But...perhaps later."
>Chuckle.> "Actually, does she ever leave the gate to the mansion?" Shanghai questions.
>"Alright. Next time."
>"She does! And she's on vacation right now."> "Ah, so I was right." Hourai nods with pride.
>"You two aren't an interruption, we love you!"> "You see us all day every day though, right? Wouldn't some away from us be nice?" Hourai questions.
>"Time with you isn't a burden, Hourai. But since you two want to stay here, I'll just say, 'Be good.'"> "Then we'll eat up all the time you have when you get back. You'll wish you hadn't said that." Hourai points up to you.
>"Did anything happen while I was away?"> The duo shake their heads.
>"Alright then. Is there anything you two need?"> "...Something to do? There hasn't been much happening around the house..." Shanghai speaks.
>"Hmm. Well, I don't think you would be terribly happy with chores. I could use materials to expand the house, but I don't think you two are interested in that. So...do you think you can find your way to Marisa's safely?"> "We can." Both nod.
>"Then you may visit her. But you have to behave, and listen to her. ...But not if she tells you to do bad things."> "We know the deal with her. At least, I do." Shanghai starts.
>Smile as well.> "Oh, enjoy your time." Shanghai speaks, before turning to Hourai. "Hey, maybe we could sleep for a little while longer.
>"You two will be just fine, then."
>To the dolls: "We might have found a way to make them last longer."> "Marisa better catch up, then." Shanghai speaks, seemingly with intention to bother Hourai.
>Look over Meiling. Assuming no change, say, "Well, you're still the same size."
>"Well, Meiling is very special. We'll have to experiment a bit more. But perhaps I should see how Marisa has progressed? What do you think sweetie?"> "It's just a few steps over, so sure."
>A few steps, she says...> As you near your neighbor's home - your dolls following along - you notice a small gathering in front of Marisa's residence.
>"I'm sure she'll be thrilled to see you!"
>To the dolls: "You two can come if you like, but you don't have to."
>Head for Marisa's house.
>Oh yes, we did say something like that, didn't we? Well, we've made peace with the faeries, so no hard feelings.> "You're that puppeteer girl! I was told to watch out for you. But not what to do when you came..." the fairy thinks. "I guess that means you must be specially invited or something. For Marisa?" She asks the last bit to herself.
>"Ah, hello there."
>"Yep. Would you knock on the door for me, since you're closer?"> The fairy gives a confident nod, getting up and heading towards Marisa's door.
>"Hello, Marisa."> There's a moment of silence...
>"At this hour? Honestly now."> Marisa finally peeks out from the door, looking among those gathered here.
>"I was wondering how you had progressed with your work."> "They're helping my research out. But since most of them are asleep right now, we could."
>Glance down at the faeries.
>"...Though perhaps we should get some privacy first?"
>Nod.> "The mushrooms work on fairies as well. I think they even get a bit sturdier."
>"What have you found?"
>Nod> "Ah. Drat, I thought I had something new. Hmm... Well, my Tsuchinoko can't do much for it. I've been meaning to try it with other people too, but I've been trying them with these fairies lately. Theirs are some impressive results though!"
>"I noticed that too, earlier."
>"Have you had luck cultivating them?"> "No, not at all. There's still a fair amount growing around, at least."
>"A shame, but good to know they are still around. As for myself, well...results pending. But they are promising."> "Huh?" Meiling questions with a confused look. "I've been helping cultivate them?"
>Small nod toward Meiling.
>"Just so. I don't want to get into details until things are a little more private."> "We're the ones that'll have to move. Unless you two wanna try carrying them off somewhere without waking them."
>Subtle but meaningful glance toward the faeries.
>Glance up to Meiling> "I'll give it a shot. Where to?" Meiling gets to her knees and scoops the Fairy group up with her hands and arms, trying to hold all of them.
>"Would you like to try and move them, dear?"
>"Just an arm length away from here will do."> The giant nods, lifting them up and pivoting in the opposite direction to set them down.
>While she does so, say to Marisa, "Our preliminary finding is that it appears that consuming a very large quantity of mushrooms may make the effects permanent. It's too soon to say for sure, more observation and testing will be required. I wouldn't be surprised to learn that Meiling's unique talents had a role in it."> "How much is a very large quantity? Are we talking about ten or closer to fifty..." Marisa questions.
>"Probably more than fifty."> "Gee... I don't think I can spare trying that out. How did you even get that many?"
>"I had to beat up a lot of faeries, we'll say."> "I hope you don't plan on beating the ones I've got with me. At least not until we're ready to try combat experiments.
>"Well, hopefully it won't come to-wait, what?"> You stand up and peer over.
>Stand up and look toward Scarlet Devil Mansion.
>"...That's a lot of red... Ah, sorry Marisa we gotta go! We'll compare notes next time! C'mon, honey, let's go!"> "See you in a minute or two, then." Marisa waves.
>"Yeah! Just make sure you don't gather up anyone before you drop it!"> "Got it." she reassures.
>Follow that gate guard!> You follow the giant gate guard towards the gate...
>Is it permissible to interfere with a duel, perhaps by dousing one one the duelists with a large amount of water? Or does this violate spellcard rules and get one in trouble with shrine maidens?> You believe you'd be in the wrong there... Maybe if it was an "accident"...
>"Douse it, Honey. Mind Patchouli, though."> "Gotcha!"
>Frown at the newcomer. "...Don't I know you?"> "No, I haven't been here before. People seem pretty rude here however."
>"What happened, Patchouli?"> "I saw her wandering the halls. I'm guessing you were away..." The bookworm sounds tired.
>"You were tresspassing. What did you expect?"> "A little less violence. Show me where I should've gone and such. Not this much aggression."
>"You broke into their house."> "Well I didn't know it was private property. Especially with the door not having any locks or anything."
>"Now now, Patchouli."> The girl shrugs.
>"The doors, and the gates, were closed. What kind of public place is fenced in like this?"
>"I suppose so. Well, let's get this sorted. I'm sure you are sorry for breaking in?"> "Yeah. It's not like I meant to go on private property. And if I was looking to fight, I probably wouldn't choose to bother someone that looks like they just want to get to sleep. At least not at that moment."
>"You do tend to look like you're about ready for bed, Patchy. That's part of your charm. Now, Patchouli, I'm sure you're sorry about continuing this misunderstanding, right?"> "..." Patchouli is silent for a moment. "Yes."
>Smile and clap our hands together, as if we weren't a troublemaker ourselves. "Wonderful! Now, why don't you introduce yourself, miss newcomer?"> "Why do you say it like-"
>Is that ringing any bells?> You think you've heard of her in Makai. Not directly, though.
>"You're from Makai, aren't you?"> "Oh? I didn't think anyone here would know of it, but yes, I am!"
>Crouch down, and get a better look at her. Does she seem familiar, outside that dream?> You examine the witch closer... But you really don't believe you've seen her outside of that dream. Heard of, yes, but seen yourself, no.
>"Tell me more about yourself?"> "I lived in the World of Ice and Snow. Uh... Me and my partner, Mai got beat pretty hard by some invaders and we separated after that. She was the Ice Witch and I was the Fire Witch."
>"What brings you here?"> "Trying to see- wait, I don't think I can say, actually."
>"Well, what can you say?"> "Uhh... We're not here to cause trouble?"
>"Who's this we?"> Yuki blinks.
>Glance up to Meiling. "Oh, no question, there."> "Oh, oop. Sorry, didn't mean to interrupt~" Meiling says.
>Back to Mai. "Well. Now that you've said that much, you might as well say the rest?"
>"So who else came with you?"> "No one, I came over to this mansion by myself. Speaking of, since this is a private place, I should maybe be going somewhere else."
>"Well. Alright. Who else from Makai came with you?"> "N-Not that easy, huh...just a few residents. I don't know if Mai came too, but she probably didn't... I say just a few, but Lady Shinki is trying to make her way here as well."
>Nod.> Meiling waves lightly, a bit of water being flung from her hands.
>"I am Alice, this is Meiling. You were facing Patchouli a moment ago."
>"The Alice. There was a reason why I was asking if I knew you."> "I don't think I've ever met you in person. Huh..."
>"That's a good question. And now that you know who I am, what more can you tell me about why you're here?"> "Mm... It's supposed to be a surprise. A present or something. Maybe not a present. But I do know that Lady Shinki's been meaning to do something like this for a while."
>"I see. So, what's your plan now?"> "I was going to find out more about this place and maybe get some help for Lady Shinki if I figure out exactly what she's doing."
>"Well, if you need some directions, I'm sure we can help out."> "To be honest, I don't know much of what's around here in the first place..."
>"How'd you get here, anyways?"> "By Lady Shinki, of course. First thing I saw was what looked like a shrine, but I decided to get some distance from the others. Like to find a different new place before they could."
>"Well, if you see a bamboo forest, be careful about it. It's really easy to get lost in it."> "Forest of bamboo. Gotcha. Any other cool places?"
>"Well, if you can get through it, there's an very interesting Heian era manor there. Just past the mansion gates is the Forest of Magic. It's teeming with faeries, and some other youkai. Ah, further out is the Human Village, do be careful if you visit there. Causing trouble there will get you exterminated by the Hakurei Maiden. Or the Moriya Maiden. Or one of the other people who find trouble and shoot it. Ah, speaking of Moriyas, you can find Youkai Mountain that way."> "Another forest... Human village... Maidens stopping trouble..." Yuki nods and nods. "Got it. I think I shouldn't ruin all the surprise so I'll get out of your hair and go check out some of that."
>Point in the proper direction.
>"Where you can find the homes of the kappa, the tengu, and the Moriya Shrine."
>Nod and stand back up. "Don't worry too much if people toss danmaku at you. It's just how we sometimes deal with arguments around here."> You return to towering above the witch.
>"Whichever seems better. Just keep in mind it's not meant to be a real fight to the finish."> "Ah, really? Huh... I wonder if the people here are satisfied with it like that..."
>"Oh, we love it. It's lets the weaker people have a chance, and the stronger people can really show off."> "Eh? How much do you have to hold back then?"
>"Hard to say, I always hold back."> "Hmm... That witch wasn't too bad with fire magic herself, so I think I'll be able to tell after a couple more encounters."
>"I'm sure you will."> "Thanks for the reassurance. Take care."
>We'll politely not mention the asthma.
>_
>"You too!"> "I was kinda hoping we'd get a reason to check inside the mansion. But oh well, being near it and knowing Patchouli is on top of some defenses is fine too."
>Look to Meiling. "Shall we?"
>"I'm sure if there's any mess, Sakuya will have it dealt with in an instant. It turned out to be nowhere near as bad as we thought."> "Yeah. I've got nothing to worry about."
>"Let's make our way back to Marisa. Oh, and there was something I wanted to discuss along the way, now that the question was raised."> You begin returning to the Forest, minding your step while Meiling follows.
>Let's start back, step daintily over the mansion wall.
>"We are going to have to repeat the mass eating experiment with someone else. Possibly two someones else, to make sure it's not just a quirk of your genius that it worked. But, we'd have to determine who..."> "Well, we might have Marisa available for a while. Otherwise..." Meiling ponders. "You?"
>"Marisa is possible. In my case, I am already...tainted, as it were? Having used magic to get this far."> "Don't say tainted. Say something like... used to it!"
>"So I am thinking, it should be someone trustworthy. Perhaps Reimu? Or Byakuren?"
>"Well, I meant in the sense I've already applied a different and magical method to myself. As for Byakuren, well...she's known to be very nice, isn't she?"> "Byakuren is... the head of that temple in the village, right? I don't think she'd change much from the mushrooms, so I say we go for her. Er, change as in act differently. But I've only heard most of how she acts and what she does, honestly. I haven't seen her much myself."
>Chuckle. "Or...we could take the route of "What difference does it make?" Would it really make a difference if, say, Yukari or Ran were larger? Would it change them or what they could do one bit?"
>Nod.> Meiling nods.
>"Byakuren it is. And...we'll talk with Reimu, perhaps, afterward?"
>Wave to Marisa once we see her. "Everything's fine, nothing to worry about! Now, where were we?"
>"We were discussing results, I think? In the case of Meiling, I believe the effect may have become permanent."> "Ah right, eating enough. I could try to track it on myself... Unless it has to be in one sitting. I'm not that crazy for mushrooms." Marisa offers
>"Honestly, that is a good question. In Meiling's case, it was one sitting."> "Mm... so all or nothing maybe. That's a but worrisome."
>"That means it takes some dedication, at least. Though, perhaps you could track how long it last against how many you've had overall, and see what happens, going forward?"> "Yeah. Might need to get a lot more first. I wonder if there's conditions where they 'go bad', if they ever even can..."
>"I imagine they keep like normal mushrooms."> "There's some magic mushrooms that are much more fragile, and others more resilient. If they have to be in a pair for their effects to show, maybe they're part of the latter." Marisa says, then mumbles: "At least that's what I hoping for."
>Nod. "It's worth looking into, for certain."> "I'll try that when I can too..." Marisa resigns.
>"Since you're our premier mushroom expert, can I trust you to look into that, too?"
>Chuckle.> "Ah, just naturally? Heh, I thought you meant actively trying things on them to see what they can and can't last, and if anything has any special reaction. Maybe I've been overthinking things."
>"It can't be that hard to just check on one every day or so and compare it to how long it takes for other mushrooms to decay."
>"I just want to know their shelf life."> "Sure, sure." Marisa sighs in disappointment. "I'll keep track of one."
>"I mean...you can run other experiments, too."> "I dunno. I guess I expected you to have another interesting test I could run. But a break with some of the simpler things is fine too."
>"The most interesting thing would be breeding them toward greater potency, but that is a matter of time..."> "Gotta figure them out before someone else does." Marisa encourages herself.
>"Very true."> "Thank you. And whenever you come by, I'll share what I've got."
>Smile.
>"I'll leave you to it, then. When there are more results, I'll be sure to let you know."
>Nod and stand up.> You stand back up.
>"Shall we, Meiling?"
>If she doesn't object, start for the Myouren Temple.
>"I was thinking we'd just walk around it."> "That still might alert some villagers."
>"It may, but it's less difficult than going through the village. It'll ease them in, so to speak? They did see me yesterday."> You hope they haven't forgotten you.
>We really ought to get back onto that construction thing... Things have been so busy.
>"In your case, I'm sure they've already had some forewarning, so to speak. Or do you want to walk through the village?"> "We can go around. We wouldn't stand out too much going through, as not exactly humans, but we'd still stand out."
>"I should hope we stand out~"> You continue barely avoiding the Human Village, getting near and in view of the Myouren Temple.
>Let's circumnavigate that village and proceed toward The Myouren Temple
>Draw closer to the temple, and observe what is going on.> You peer over the temple...
>Approach the temple, and the gathered people in particular.> The group look up towards you and Meiling, with slight surprise on their faces.
>"Good day! Is Lady Hijiri available?"
>"If it isn't too much of an inconvenience for her?"> The maiden nods, heading in to the temple's interior.
>What do we know about Byakuren, in terms of her magic use?
>"Not...especially, no? I don't have quite as much worth stealing as the Scarlet Devil Mansion."> "What about your book? Even I'm curious about it since you always have it on you."
>"Well...once in awhile, someone tries for that. Like Marisa."> Meiling thinks for a moment.
>"She hasn't tried to seize it by force, but she'd definitely tried to make a trade for it."> "Ah? Mm, feel free to speak up." Hijiri walks a bit closer.
>Once we see Byakuren step out, wave her toward us. "Lady Hijiri, we'd like to ask you something!"
>Have a seat, and gesture for her to join us.> Hijiri approaches, taking a seat on the ground next to you.
>"I was hoping you'd help me with an experiment, one that will benefit you greatly if it should work as I expect."
>Produce a pair of mushrooms and offer them to her.> You offer a pair of the mushrooms to Hijiri.
>"Eat these together. They will vastly enhance your size and power."
>"Well, perhaps so. But I assure you nothing untoward is happening here. I am offering exactly what I said, no strings attached. Well... it is temporary. I thought that might be self evident. But if it is not, I have said it."> "Temporary size and power..." Hijiri Looks up towards you. "Well, I'll give it a try..."
>"Ah, it's working."> The temple head flashes for the regular moments, before growing slightly in height, while more than such in other ways.
>Observe!
>"Hmm, a fairly small increase in height, but quite a bit in other ways. How do you feel Miss Hijiri?"> "I feel pretty rejuvenated… There's a lot of magic in those too, isn't there?" Byakuren questions.
>"A fair amount, yes. This leads us to our other experiment. We hypothesize that if you have enough in a short time, the effect becomes permanent."> "Eh? You want me to eat a lot more of those?" Hijiri questions.
>Glance toward Meiling. "What did you mean by "She can do it, too?"
>Nod to Meiling. "Oh, wouldn't that be fascinating?"> "Hm... I suppose that's fine."
>To Byakuren, "Yes, if you'd like to do this."
>Chuckle, and provide her with some more mushrooms. "You'll notice a sort of flashing across your skin, once it begins to wear off. Have another then."> You hand Hijiri a few more pairs.
>Nod to Meiling. "Just so."> You watch in silence...
>Observe Byakuren for a moment.
>Nod in agreement with Meiling's observation.> "Since eating this pair? No, I don't believe so." Byakuren replies.
>"Aside from rejuvenation, do you feel anything interesting?"
>"Anything other than rejuvenated, I mean?"> "Well... to be specific, nothing feels different from eating the first mushrooms, other than some sensation returning. Though, it's going away. Leaking out? Regardless, it feels like an enhancement to what I already have, that somehow doesn't change anything I already have. Though, this is the same as the first pair you gave me. I just hadn't mentioned it. There's no change from the first to this." Hijiri admits, thinking of something further.
>Nod.> "It's steadily dropping. Though it doesn't feel like that's making any difference towards anything else..."
>"You can feel it waning? Curious. Do keep me updated on that."
>"Let's see what happens once the effect starts to wear off and you have some more, then."> "So eat another when it's almost out, or after?" Hijiri asks in clarification.
>"Almost. Or when I tell you to, whichever comes first."> Hijiri nods, waiting for the effects to run out without further word.
>Wait for the flashing to begin. If she doesn't have another pair, suggest it is time.> You watch and wait...
>"Not yet, based on current observations. Now, while we work through this, my partner has made an interesting observation. Would you be interested, perhaps, in being larger than this?"> "Hm? Ah, I have noticed you two are quite huge. Is it related to that? It's not much of a desire at the moment, but if such a thing could be made use of in later instances, then I'd like to learn how."
>Chuckle. "We have grown a bit, yes. Particularly my dear, here. She's quite a genius at it!"//Aah I accidentally refreshed and ruined in progress post
>Pat Meiling's leg affectionately.
>"I think you would be quite good at it, though. You tend to use enhancement spells as it is, if I recall properly?"
>"It's no worry. To be honest, we haven't started to research those kinds of things."> "Ah, you're focusing on it and it's effects first?"
>"They're certainly easier and faster to measure, you'll agree."> "So it seems. Will you ever move on to that too, though?"
>"It doesn't seem like a bad idea, once I clear up some other things."> "Sure thing."
>Continue to observe for now.> You watch on, but there doesn't seem to be any more changes yet.
>"Hm, it feels like it is lasting longer."> You should be able to explain it. Especially since Hijiri's specialty seems to be amplification magic.
>Can we explain our enlargement spell in technical terms to someone who is also familiar with magic, or is it entirely a feel thing at this point?
>"Typically. But if you're already seeing it last longer..."> "It'd only be by a few seconds, I think." Hijiri answers. "It only lasts a few minutes since I ate the previous one, right? It feels like it'll be gone in another minute or two. I havent been accurately keeping track of the time myself, though." She apologizes.
>"Oh, it's fine, it's fine. Perhaps it is simply a case of you knowing how to make better use of 'em?"> "Well, this is my first encounter with them. Maybe it's beginner's luck."
>"Meiling is correct, it may well just be something about your natural talents that you've tapped into."> "Hm... Ah, should I eat another one now?" Hijiri questions.
>"Not yet."> You wait for a couple of seconds, for Hijiri to begin flashing.
>Wait until she starts to flash. If she's going to, then nod for her to do so.
>"How did that feel Miss Hijiri?"> "Not any different. These aren't too bad to eat, at least. I can still keep this up."
>Nod to Meiling. "It would stand to reason. We'll have to ask Reimu to try it."
>"I think we can get her to agree. Miss Hakurei isn't the kind to overlook a gift."> "I'll trust you."
>"Now, Hijiri, does the feeling of draining seem any different?"
>"We'll give it a few more tries. It took Meiling a bit to get used to it as well. In the meantime, why don't I run you through the basics of the spell, if you are interested?"> "Hm..." Hijiri considers for a moment. "Sure thing."
>Let's summarize it for her, using precise academic language. Emphasize the balancing act nature of getting the energies just right.> You decide not to go too in depth for Byakuren, but still try to explain it enough and touch on the important points for her.
>"Ah, what do you have in mind?"> Hijiri closes her eyes in silence for a few moments...
>"What wouldn't help with what?"> "I thought being under these effects would make it easier and possible to reach enlightenment. That's a bit far to think though, huh?"
>"Hmmm. That's quite far out of my range of expertise. Though I don't think it is a thing you can achieve simply through more power. You'll have to report back to us."> "It doesn't just feel like power at least. Though even with it's changes, it probably wouldn't help with this."
>"Perhaps it will help in its own way. Have some more, now, and tell me if anything changes?"> Hijiri does as considered, downing another pair.
>"A negative result is still a result. Don't worry, either way we learn something."> "Ah. Alright then."
>Provide the mushrooms.> You hand Hijiri a few more.
>"So, do you think that you understand the spell well enough to use it, so should I review?"
>"When you like. I just wanted to be sure I expressed it properly."> Hijiri seemingly summons a large glowing scroll. In bursts, her body starts growing, though only a bit each.
>"Hm, fascinating!"> "I still don't understand all the changes they make though. And if I could even make those changes myself."
>Nod.> "Have you tried making them into stew and such meals? Would it be greater an effect, or lesser?"
>"We're still working on that ourselves. But in short, they possess tremendous energy for simple mushrooms."
>Have we tried that? It's been awhile...> You haven't.
>"I've considered that, but recent findings have kind of sidetracked me."> "That's alright. It hasn't been that long since you've discovered these, right? Or maybe it has with how many you possess..."
>"It's certainly worth a go."> "But do keep at your own pace. I wouldn't want to steal the spotlight of such a discovery."
>"It is a fascinating idea, I will have to look into it after I finish with these experiments."> "Mm." Hijiri nods.
>"Let's. Though I am curious, how do you extend it?"> "I'm not sure on how exactly to extend it, but I could make a spell that does similar to it. At least, similar to what we know it does already. My considerations on extending it are that it might last longer if it has something else to eat at than... itself. It lasts longer when eating more, but it's done in a way that makes it best to eat another when the previous would run out... It doesn't seem like it gets longer the earlier you eat another."
>"Ah, I thought you had composed such a spell already."> "I don't commonly use spells that change my body visually more than physically, like growth. I mean to say that I could use this time to develop my own spells that work like these boosts, or we could try to figure out a way to extend it instead." Hijiri explains. "This is a bit time sensitive in that they don't last forever."
>"I am curious to see what you could bash out for extending them. But for now, I would like to continue as we are; to see if it happens simply through having enough."> "Understood."
>"Have another, then describe how things felt before and after."> Hijiri obliges once more.
>"Are you alright, Hijiri?"> "Hm? Yes, I am. Nothing bad has happened yet with these."
>"Alright, you just seemed a bit uneasy."> "Well, it's not the greatest thing to keep eating... but a little discomfort to figure something out isn't bad. I said I could before."
>"Really? I didn't think they were that bad..."> "They aren't that bad. It's eating just them back to back this much. Maybe it's just my tastes..." Hijiri considers.
>"I assume you liked them, Meiling?"> The giantess aside you nods.
>"Mmm, that is data worth considering... perhaps it lends itself to compatibility?"> "It does seem like it offers a bit of different things based on who takes it... Maybe?" Meiling supports.
>Nod.> Hijiri shakes her head.
>"It seems a good reason to stop for now, then, unless you personally wish to keep going, Hijiri?"
>"Very well. It is a shame, this sort of form suits you."> "I can't say I don't enjoy it a bit. Even internally, this feels good." Hijiri admits.
>"Internally?"> The changes that aren't on the surface." Hijiri answers. "I suppose you could also say mentally."
>"Ah, do detail them for me!"> "There's still the feeling of being rejuvenated. It also feels like it's an enhancement to things I already have without changing them. I feel stronger. More focused. There may not be downsides to this. I feel like it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that everything feels better, or at least, greater."
>"If you can work out a way to preserve it, let me know."> "Mm. I don't think I've reached it yet."
>"Keep at it. Shall we leave you with a few, just in case?"> "I'll try to manage them if you do."
>Give her two more pairs, just in case.> You entrust two more pairs of the mushrooms to Hijiri.
>"With that, I think we should stop taking up your time. Thank you for your help, Hijiri."
>"I'm sure we will."> "Mm. Let's hope she's available."
>Bow back.
>Look up to Meiling. "Shall we proceed to the shrine now?"
>"I can't imagine otherwise."> You get up and begin towards the Hakurei Shrine.
>Stands up, and make our way toward the Hakurei Shrine with Meiling.
>Take a moment to observe this scene.> It seems you're a bit late to catch who she was with. The Shrine Maiden herself turns to address you.
>"Hello, Reimu. I hope we didn't catch you at a bad time?"> "No, not really. Is something up?" She questions.
>"We were hoping you'd help us with a little experiment."> "...What is it?" Reimu squints a bit.
>"We'd like you to try a couple of mushrooms. They should enhance your power."> "...That doesn't sound like something I'd be interested in." Reimu frowns.
>"Oh? Why not?"> "What kind of proposition is that? Out of nowhere asking me to try some mushrooms to enhance my power..."
>"A direct and honest one. Would you prefer I beat around the bush and then make it seem like I was trying to trick you? It's better to just lay my cards on the table, wouldn't you agree?"> "Mrr... I guess. But why do you care about enhancing my power? I can hold out fine by myself. And it's not like I need improvements in my abilities."
>"Honestly? Because we trust you. If we did this for the likes of Yuugi or Patchouli, for instance, it would definitely be a problem. But as for you? Well, what changes? We know you're a good person and we know what it's like when you're powerful."> Reimu sighs, though her expression softens.
>"Well, there might be something like that. But it will be temporary. What it will do is make you larger. What we're experimenting with is the degree and the result of it."> Reimu takes the mushrooms in her hand, though examines them.
>Offer her a pair of mushrooms if she doesn't change her mind.
>"Finish them, please."> Reimu sighs, stuffing the rest and struggling just a bit to chew it down.
>"Fascinating... How do you feel?"> "Hm... This doesn't just make you larger and enhance your powers, does it?" She questions.
>How much larger is she, in terms of height?> Just a bit above Marisa's. Both of them are still shorter than you are now.
>"Well, it tends to makes you more resilient as well. It's generally reported as feeling good. Many seem to find themselves better able to focus and think as well."
>"They do possess a fair deal of latent power. I suppose it just doesn't resonate well with you. How did it taste?"> "Not bad. But I'm still suspicious."
>"Yes, let's see what you can do!"> "...What do you want me to do, though? Duel someone? Try to seal something?"
>"Hmmm. Why don't you try to set up a small barrier?"> Reimu thinks for a moment, before crouching down and placing her hand on the ground for another moment.
>"Did it feel different? Try flying, perhaps?"> "I didn't expect it to be that easy without any tools." Reimu comments, before floating into the air gently. "This doesn't feel much di-" The shrine maiden fades away as she speaks.
>"...Reimu?"> There's silence...
>"...Was that flight? Where did you end up?"> "I thought you would've been fine with me floating since they're similar, so I did that. I feel like I almost went too far. Do you mean flight as in, how fast I can go?"
>"You vanished."> "Like my Fantasy Nature spellcard?"
>"How curious. Try it again, and see if you can stop it this time?"> Reimu nods.
>"I can see you! And see through you."> Reimu reappears fully
>"Not when you just fly normally, it isn't!"> "You do know of my specialties, right?"
>"I am kind of interested...what gods can you invoke?"> "At least more than Sanae if she only calls on those two with her. Though I haven't been... that incredible at it. It's not easy nor too successful most of the time."
>"It would be kind of funny if you invoked one of her mountain gods..."> "Ooh, try it try it!" Meiling cheers.
>"Isn't the big one supposed to be all about advancement? Then surely she'd be reasonably okay with this."> "I suppose we could blame it on thinking it would help her, then..." Reimu gets back to the ground, then closes her eyes and holds her hands together.
>"There was a figure behind you for a moment, maybe..."> "So it almost worked..." Reimu glances behind her.
>"Fascinating. I've never really seen you do this kind of thing. I suppose it probably made her a bit grouchy, if she stopped it."> "Should I try it again?"
>"I don't know. If it's something that irritates her, it may be best not to. But...I suppose if it succeeds, you could apologize in person. Hm, Meiling?"> "Yeah. If she likes advancement, surely she'll be okay with it?"
>"It wears off after a few minutes. That's about it."> "Ah, so probably not much time left. I doubt it's near an hour..." Reimu considers. "I'll try again then."
>Observe. Perhaps be prepared to catch Reimu if she gets flung by a sudden wind.> "So how does it feel?" Meiling speaks up.
>"Oh, that flashing means the mushrooms are about to run out of power."> "Eh, you want to see more?" Reimu questions, rather than eating them, and thus, reverts back to normal.
>Offer two more.
>"Well, perhaps not...It's just interesting to plumb the depths of what they can do. The other experiment we are trying is whether or not having a large amount makes the effect permanent, as it has with dear Meiling."> "You should get someone that's a big eater then." Reimu examines herself and her clothes, now that she's normal again. "It changes your clothes too? And makes them go back to normal. How does that even work?"
>"We haven't figured that out, but I think it has something to do with how it enhances one's abilities and powers. The clothing change is a projection of that."> "Does it change anything else?" Reimu examines the mushroom closer.
>"Size, physical appearance, durability. In particular, it makes you more difficult to hurt."> "Does it also affect the clothes in that way? Like, if I were in a danmaku battle, would they get damaged as they normally do?"
>"Not that I've seen. I don't think danmaku does much to you or your clothes at all."> "Hm... And things you're holding?" Reimu pulls out her gohei.
>"Hmmm..."> Unfortunately, Youmu did not have her swords on her when she indulged in the mushrooms.
>Did Youmu's swords seem to grow with her?
>Tell Reimu whether they did or not.
>"I honestly don't know. We had Youmu try them, but she didn't have her swords at the time. Its kind of a shame you didn't get bigger."> "I... got a bit bigger. I think."
>Nod.> "Huh? Are you looking for the exacts?"
>"I suppose we could try it again and measure it?"
>"More to be sure it happened, you didn't get much larger."> "Hm. I'd still say that was a pretty satisfying experience." Reimu admits. "It was nice to be able to call upon a god so easily compared to usual."
>"It wasn't a dramatic change, but it's good that you enjoyed it."> "Makai? Seems more like they're already visiting here though."
>"There is one other thing I wanted to ask. It's about visiting Makai."
>"I...had noticed, yes. That was going to be my next inquiry."> "Their goddess had a chat with me just before you got here. They shouldn't be causing any trouble..." She frowns a little. "Actually, I'd wonder how that sort of mushroom works on her, but. Ah right, what's your wonder first?"
>"Well...I was hoping you'd know the best way Meiling and I could get there. But...perhaps it is not a problem anymore?"> "You could try to catch up with her and ask. But there also seems to be an entrance not far from my shrine." Reimu seems a slight bit annoyed at the fact.
>"One that we can fit in?"> "It's a cave. I think you should be able to fit, even at that size."
>"...That's quite a cave, if it can hold someone as immense as Meiling."> "Well, maybe with a bit of ducking down... But it was pretty big."
>Chuckle, resist to urge to correct to "for now". It's her choice after all.> "She was making sure I knew that she was just visiting, and didn't want to cause any trouble. So she keeps insisting, at least. She also wanted to visit a few places in Gensokyo. I'd bet she's trying to find you too."
>"Handy! So, what did the goddess have to say?"
>"We were planning to visit them, but...ugh...this is going to be a mess, isn't it?"> "Huh? What is? Ah. Well I guess it would be a mess if you were just running around Makai looking for someone who's already gone... Or do you mean it in a different way?"
>"I mean them, here."> "Huh? And I was starting to feel like things might go well for once. I hope you aren't right." Reimu ponders.
>"Among other things, I don't think they understand danmaku. At least not as we do. It's more...hostile for them."> "Well, Shinki didn't intend on fighting. She didn't even take the chance to test my skills or see how I've grown or something stupid... She looks like she's behaving, but I still have my worries."
>"Well, even if she's perfect, her underlings might not be. We had a small event at the Scarlet Devil Mansion we needed to handle."> "Ah. Care to enlighten me?"
>"A makai person invited themself in. Things got heated."> "Um... that's a bit vague..." Reimu sits down. "So they just barged in like they owned the place?"
>"Yep. They thought it was public, I suppose?"> "Probably something Shinki herself needs to address then. Before any of them make that same mistake..."
>Groan. It's about the only response we can make.> "Thinking of taking matters into your own hands?" Reimu raises an eyebrow at your response.
>"...Hopefully it'll work out."
>"...Maybe. I suppose I ought to..."> "Well, don't rile them all up. I don't want to clean up any big problems. Since you're familiar with Makai, you can deal with this. If it even is something that needs to be dealt with."
>"I'll have to do my best to not force the issue, yes."> "Well, good luck then." Reimu nods.
>"We'll see. Did she mention where she'd be going?"> "To the other shrine maiden. Sanae. She probably wants to see what she's like compared to me, if I had to guess. You could get to her before then, though."
>"Wouldn't surprise me if we could~"> Not much for a while, but there are a few locations at the actual mountain. If that was Shinki she was waving off, you should have time before she gets to there. Unless she's hurrying and you're not.
>What sorts of things are between here and Youkai Mountain?
>"What do you think, Meiling? Should we hurry there, or perhaps look for others to experiment with?"> "We can do the latter after we do the former. Waiting longer will end up letting her get even further. Or even to another place. Then we'd just be chasing after where the last person said she went..." Meiling considers. "Unless these mushrooms are her doing. Does she have that sort of ability?"
>"I don't think she's the cause, no. Unless there's a lot I don't know about her. Well, if we get to the Moriya Shrine first, that may open other possibilities."> "Ah, where she's going rather than where she is."
>"Oh yes, we'll smooth things over if needs be."> "Alright. Was there anything else you needed here, then?" Reimu asks. "Or I guess, wanted me to try?"
>"No, I think we've gotten just about everything. Thank you for your assistance."> "Good luck, then."
>"Thank you. And we'll make sure to smooth things over with Kanako if needs be. Let's be off, Meiling."> You depart on the way to the Youkai Mountain.
>Head for Youkai Mountain!
>"Honestly, I haven't figured out what I want to do yet. I'm hoping to buy a little time with the mountain goddess and come to a conclusion."> "At least we have to tell her about not to barge into places like they're free roam."
>"Well, she is the goddess of Makai. So she'll probably think it's a bit different when she does it. Which isn't entirely wrong, if you think about it. But still a pain."> "Hopefully she's easy to reason with?"
>"Hopefully."> Yes. You did get your own place in Makai that she wouldn't bother you in. It could've just been her being easy to reason with when it concerned you.
>Was she ever easy to reason with?
>"Maybe I'll be able to pull something, regardless."> "Oh? A backup in case she doesn't listen?"
>"...Not really, no. I'm just going to have to hope that she does listen."> "Ah. I've got your back if push comes to shove then!" Meiling reassures enthusiastically.
>"Well, if you're holding my back, I doubt anyone could shove me, dear."> "I don't expect size to amount to too much against a goddess... but at least I'll cushion your fall in that case, too." Meiling lifts you into a hug from the back, as if demonstrating.
>Chuckle and relax into the hug. "That's all I can ask for, Meiling."> You relax, letting Meiling carry you along.
>That is fine, we can wait for her at the shrine while speaking with Kanako.> Meiling doesn't seem to object either, continuing on.
>Look around, as we're carried and snuggled.> You barely keep from losing yourself in Meiling's comfort to survey the surroundings.
>Let's wait for Sanae to notice, or when Meiling arrives.> You wait a few moments, before Sanae jumps in reaction to seeing the two of you.
>"Good morning! Is it a bad time to visit?"> "Not entirely. It's just that few people visit this early."
>Chuckle.> "Ah? She went out for a bit earlier. Given she didn't go far, I'd guess she'll be back soon." Sanae looks off past her shrine. "Probably just wanted to go out and stretch or check on something."
>"I'm sure. Is Lady Kanako in?"
>"I certainly can't fault her for being on a morning stroll, all told."> Nothing of note is about the shrine. Sanae's practically all done as you noted before. Though you think you can see someone hovering over the lake near the shrine.
>Glance around idly, to see if we can see anything from our vantage point.
"We came to visit, really. And, perhaps, do a couple experiments..."> "Experiments? Is this something with Lady Kanako?"
>"it was the plan. We wanted to see how a wildly respected and broadly powerful god would take to a some mushrooms we've been experimenting with.> "Uh... I hope you don't plan on poisoning Lady Kanako... she won't take kindly to that. Unless you're directly revealing it like this?" Sanae questions herself and what she knows of her goddess.
>"It wouldn't be a very effective poisoning if I already mentioned I were going to try it, would it? It is safe."> "Itd still be something bold to do. There's bold people like that out here. I don't know if you're one though. I guess I'll tell her that you're here, if you're willing to wait."
>"That would be fine. Hmmm, perhaps in the meantime, you'd like to help us as well?"> "How could I help?" Sanae questions.
>"We'll just need you to try a couple of mushrooms, to start with."> "The same ones you'll be giving Lady Kanako?" Sanae wonders. "Okay."
>Smile, and provide her with a pair of mushrooms.> You provide the usual to Sanae.
>"Just eat them."> "Alright..." Sanae exhales, then closes her eyes and stuffs the mushrooms.
>"Ah, its working."> "Ooh? I'm gonna transform?" Sanae reacts with pleasant surprise. Seemingly in preparation, she outstretches her arms and closes her eyes with a skyward gaze.
>Observe!
>Chuckle.> "Why do I ask? This is a power up. Of course I want to know if more exist. If they work with each other. Or if they're different. I have to know all about this."
>"Why do you ask?"
>Give her another pair, if only to satisfy her.> You hand Sanae another pair, and she quickly eats it up as well.
>"That's new... wonder if she'll get bigger again?"> You watch with expectations.
>Observe!
>"Fascinating, we've never seen an effect like that from a second pair. How do you feel?"> "Good... Well, better!" Sanae speaks.
>"I wonder why you were able to have a double reaction, when it seems no other humans were? I wonder if Kanako would do the same?"> Maybe only passing Kanako now? She hasn't grown too much. You doubt she'll pass you two if she keeps this up.
>How tall is Sanae now?
>Smirk toward Meiling knowingly. "Possibly Yukari, just because..."
>"Well, high hopes cost us nothing, dear."> "It might feel a bit rude to her herself, though. But I guess it's also rude to expect little."
>"Well, we won't say anything to them."> "Well everything before feels even better. But it doesn't feel like I can go too much higher..." Sanae looks to herself. "Feels like it would be hard to keep up for long too."
>Back to Sanae: "Now, how do you feel, in details?"
>Nod.> "Hm... How temporary?"
>"These are things people tend to report. And yes, the effect is temporary."
>"Typically only a few minutes."> "That's... probably beatable."
>"Beatable?"> "I mean I can maybe last more than a few minutes."
>"Hm, do go on. Longevity is one of the things we're looking into."> "I'll try." Sanae responds, as the sparkles seem to stop. Well, almost stop. "I can still do this again after, right? Or will I end up cutting into Lady Kanako's share..."
>"I think we can spare a few more."> "Great. Should I try anything else, or just focus on lasting longer?" Sanae questions.
>"Hm, what other things do you think you could achieve?"> "What I'm best at of course. Miracles."
>"I'm intrigued, to say the least."> "I'd guess, if I'm stronger from these, then the miracles might take less to cause? Making it rain probably wouldn't be a good test of it..."
>"Ah, I thought you meant a miracle with regarding your results with these mushrooms. Well, let's not make it rain too hard."> "A flood sounds doable." The miko giggles. "I might cause one by accident if I just try for rain, even."
>"Let's aim small, at first."> "So just a little bit..." Sanae raises her arm in emphasis.
>Glance up, to see if there are any clouds.> Just a couple are over here. In fact, you'd say another is forming up there if your eyes see it right.
>"Ah, it's working."> "It's hard to do this little though..." Sanae speaks, slightly annoyed.
>"Well. let's see if you can make some rainbows? That is pretty miraculous."> "I'll try a faint one, then." Sanae decides.
>"By all means."> You wait for a rainbow to appear, but have yet to notice any...
>"Ah, there's a faint one. It should be fine to put some more effort into it."> "How much more? I don't want to worry people, but I also want to see how much I can do."
>"I think Rainbows are fine."> "Accidentally filling the sky with 17 or so might get some looks."
>"If anything, it'll brighten people's day."> "Alright. I'll put more into it." Sanae seems to focus.
>Just gawk for now.> You watch the lights, trying to count how many are being made up.
>Does power make a difference with spellcards? Or are they preset things?> Only a bit. If you don't have much power, you have to make due with what you can to create patterns. You supposed it'd make a difference if someone is at their limits in strength or energy, but they have the skills to do even more if they had more.
>"It's worth a shot, surely."> "Actually, would it really be something we can compare well?" Meiling interjects. "I haven't really seen much of her spellcards myself, so I don't know how the original would be compared to now..."
>"Well, we cannot, but I am sure Sanae herself can tell us if anything is awry."> "Should I perform it against one of you? Or just fire it off... well, at nothing?"
>"Oh, just into the air please!"> Sanae nods, floating up above the shrine, then declaring Great Miracle ⌠Yasaka's Divine Wind⌡.
>Observe.> Sanae spreads danmaku out with her at the center, which soon catches on to the wind, flying out away from her. The winds shift direction as she makes another spiral of bullets, repeating while firing out a few shots that aren't affected by the wind.
>Let's move up against Meiling for support.> You stick close to the unmoving gate guard, who seems to be doing quite well.
>How are the general surroundings taking these winds?
>"Sanae, the donation box!"> Sanae stops her spell card, looking over in question.
>"I think you might be be right, as much as one can have a tornado without the clouds and such. Which is even more worrying, when you think about it..."> "Mm. Yeah, it's alright. I could've gotten in trouble."
>"Everything okay, Sanae?"
>"Ah, Lady Kanako, I presume?"> "Yes."
>"First, I have a messing from the Hakurei Maiden. She wants to say she apologizes for any inconvenience; she was experimenting with her abilities."> "Ah, so it was her." Kanako speaks. "I was wondering how she was almost able to call upon me. Has she gotten even better."
>Hold back a chuckle; neither of them really grew under these mushrooms. Perhaps people of faith are not affected strongly in that regard?> You wonder if there'll be any giant changes again...
>"Don't feel too bad, Sanae. She too was experimenting with us."
>"We're experimenting with a kind of mushroom that enhances one's power. As you can see, Sanae had a fairly strong compatibility with them."> "Oh right. Crud, I forgot..." Sanae looks at herself. "Oh, my clothes didn't stay too big or anything. But I swore I could maintain that longer..."
>"We would be happy to provide, you simply need to sample a pair of mushrooms."> "Me?"
>"Precisely what we intend to see."> You've tried with the Aki Sisters. You note that he elder had an irresistable scent, while the other had an impossibly realistic design within the confines of her outfit. They both seemed to last longer than others.
>Did we try this on the Aki Sisters earlier? Or am I imagining that? If so, what were the results?
>"Simply gaining knowledge is a goal, is it not?"> "In a way. But there's also what you plan to do with that knowledge, isn't there?"
>"I haven't decided yet."> "Hm... I'll think about trying it out when you've got such a goal, then. Though I'm still not necessarily going to depending on that reason."
>"You think we're up to something bad, don't you?"> "Not necessarily. You're innocent until proven guilty here. I don't want to be the god that sways that innocence one way or another."
>"Perhaps you would like to try a bit yourself, and see?"> "I said I'll think about trying it out later."
>Chuckle. "I understand. If you're worried we'll share the results, we can keep it private."> "I'm more worried about the results themselves. Though since most things are solved with danmaku, I suppose it shouldn't affect the state of gods in Gensokyo too much whether it's positive or negative for them..." Kanako considers.
>"Just so. We aren't interested in undermining the spell card system, it works too well."> "Hm. Maybe later then."
>"They work best as a pair."> "Do you have to chew both at once or something?" Kanako questions, holding up the pair you've offered in examination.
>I present two for her to take.
>"It is best if you do both at once, but as long as they are close together."> "It might be limited in duration, too." Sanae advises.
>"We would like to see how your capacities have been affected, too. But, we won't do anything you're not comfortable with."> The goddess finally settles on eating the pair, flashing shortly after, as usual.
>How much larger, and 'larger', did she become?> Just a couple of feet taller, and slightly larger. Since she was already shapely before, it doesn't seem like they've changed much. It's harder to notice than her height, at least.
>"A fairly moderate physical effect, how do you feel, Lady Kanako?"> "A bit better. Not that I was feeling bad before, but I do feel better than before now. Maybe feels like I have more faith? No, it might be something else."
>"More power," I say. "The effect is often increased with another pair."> "Hm." Kanako doesn't reply much, taking the next pair and consuming it as well.
>I offer her such.
>Observe.> You watch as well in wait...
>"No, it seems you'e only extracted so much. But the effect should last longer. Still, a pity, I was hoping to see another powerful reaction~"> "Eh? So Lady Kanako isn't-"
>"It's possible. Regardless, how do you feel?"> "Erm... A bit disappointed. Well, not with this itself. The fact that it still does something is impressive..."
>I nod.> "I suppose I also feel a little tense... Though. Well, it's probably my own mistake in being such."
>"Tell me your feelings more in general, I should say. Emotional, physical, and so on."
>"Mmm, you're painting it as a negative experience. Is that accurate?"> "It has it's upsides and downsides, I suppose."
>"Just so, have a nice stretch, take a few steps and get a feel for your enhanced self."> Kanako does as mutually advised, taking a breath and starting to stretch. Then walking over to the shrine and taking a seat.
>Fascinating.> "Huh? Relaxing's actually doing something?" Kanako questions.
>Softly, so as not to startle her. "It's working..."
>"You may want to move up a bit, Miss Kanako!"> "I think you're growing too big. But uh, keep relaxing! Just... don't bump into the shrine." Sanae advises.
>How large is she compared to us?> "Mhm. It seems the mushroom thinks so too."
>"I don't know...I think it's nice. It suits a goddess, don't you think, Meiling?"
>At this point, all there is to do is watch in a kind of awe. It's hard not to feel a little jealous...> She looks a bit worried. Not taking it as well as you or Meiling. Or anyone else in fact. But it doesn't seem outright negative from her expressions yet.
>Does she seem to be enjoying herself, or showing any other interesting signs?
>"Amazing...simply breathtaking."
>"A few temporary problems. perhaps. They can be dealt with if needed. I must say, you've had by far the most powerful reaction. And you look more divine than ever. I rather liked what you did with your clothing for the moment."> "I mean problems with the rest of the mountain and their residents... Moving about or bumping into things isn't my worry here."
>"Oh, what sorts of problems? I am sure they won't mind letting you use as much of the mountainside as you like."> "They're not the kind I would like to openly explain, but I can tell you that this would either be negatively beneficial, or actually bad depending on how others on the mountain react." Kanako explains. "If this was elsewhere, like the human village, it would be better. That is, if not for seeing a giant woman in the middle of their home being something humans don't exactly enjoy."
>If she keeps going, she won't need to, she coudl just work from the valleys. Oh my...
>"I don't know, people in the village seem to have taken well to it. Ah, it's about to end, I think, so there shouldn't be a problem in enjoying the last few moments."> "I'm glad I didn't relax at the start then... I can probably still explain away this if it comes up since it was fairly short." Kanako speaks, as she returns to her usual size, floating in the air.
>"I'd say it's a shame that you didn't, you had such marvelous compatibility."> Meiling seems to be in thought, while Sanae is listening with a bit of excitement on her face.
>How did Meiling and Sanae seem to take this display?
>"You make it sound so unpleasant!"> "Again, if it were somewhere else, I might've been fine with growing that large."
>"Well, would you like to name a place?"> "I guess far from the mountain? Near the Human Village, or Hakurei Shrine."
>"That is not impossible to arrange..."> "I'll think about that another time... I should be preparing for any Tengu that saw this."
>"Simply tell them it is divine mystery, and refuse to tell them any more with a cheeky smile? Let them think as they please."> "I think Lady Kanako's problem is that she doesn't want too much faith from just the mountain alone." Sanae puts a finger to her chin.
>Doesn't want too much faith from the mountain? How very strange? Why would she care where it comes from, so long as she has it?> You haven't heard of any bad news with the mountain, unless it's being kept secret, so you don't think she's using other places as a backup. But maybe she's planning something that could lose the mountain's faith? That would be one reason for needing sources elsewhere.
>"I'm sure it should be easy enough to find someplace else."
>"Well, we can surely spare a few."> "Can you, though? You sure you won't need them for later?"
>"They do grow back. But, we wouldn't want to force you."> "I've already seen the effects on me so... I'll consider what can be done with it later. I don't want to just eat them and then have to think on the spot what to do..."
>"Very well, I am sure you will come up with something pleasing~"> "I'll try not to disappoint."
>"Now, as I recall hearing, you had a guest recently?"> "A guest? You've been the only ones recently. It's a good thing I cleaned up a bit earlier, too." Sanae answers.
>"Ah so we did get here first, very good."> "Is there something I should know?" Sanae questions.
>"A guest from Makai, to be precise. Unless they've changed course..."> "Makai? I haven't heard of anything like that. Did I miss a messenger or something?" Sanae glances around.
>"Mmm, possible. That might go poorly..."> "I didn't notice any big commotion at least." Kanako adds.
>"Well, you would have had the best vantage point~"> "I could try to check with the rest of the mountain to see if anyone's met someone new. Maybe a description I can give them?"
>Lets look around and see if we can see anything.
>Think back, who did we expect to find out this way, according to Reimu?> You expected to run into Shinki.
>"She stands out, she has pale blue hair, multiple pairs of wings, a red robe. Divine."> "Is that all?" Kanako questions.
>"Are there many gods who look like this? Her name is Shinki."> "No, I don't believe so. If that's all, that's fine."
>"She might be accompanied by a blonde maid in red."> "I'll try to get them here properly, then." Kanako starts to depart.
>"Well, to be honest..."> "Is that your reason for picking who to use these on?" Sanae questions. "Well, they're yours so I can't argue..."
>Lean forward and whisper, "Kanako is the more attractive one by far."
>"I picked one or the other, I needed something to go with."> "Alright. I won't press it. I was kinda interested in how Lady Suwako would react, though."
>"Well...if you're interested, and you're willing to get her..."> "It's alright. She's likely still unavailable anyways. I'm not that curious. Maybe it'll happen eventually."
>"Ah, we wouldn't want to see too interested, hmm?"> "Moderation is fine." Sanae answers.
>GLance about and see if we can see what Kanako is up to.
>"Of course, moderation~"> "She's a goddess. She can wait for it."
>We can wait for Kanako, while slightly needling Sanae.
>"Hm, good question, Meiling."> "You want me to? For Lady Suwako?" Sanae questions. "Well, they're my goddesses, so it'll be different than if Reimu tried it..."
>Glance toward Sanae. "Can you do the god summoning thing?"
>"No no, I meant in general, I'm curious what insights you could offer."> "Oh. I'm uh... Not very great at summoning other gods..."
>"It does sound tricky. Have you done it before at all?"> "...No. I never managed any other god. But I'm very, very good at summoning Lady Suwako and Lady Kanako!" She reasons.
>Nod. "That makes sense, they are close to you. Reimu seems to struggle as well."> "Oh. Do you think you could summon the god Kanako just went to find?" Meiling questions.
>"Well, that might work. But it would leave her maid alone. And I don't know if she would take that well."> "Ah. I guess that idea is out already, then..."
>"If you're eager to try and show up Reimu, well, I suppose it would be wrong of me not to help you after you helped us."> "Ah, nothing like that, im just trying to broaden my skill set."
(Bleh! Sorry, thought I replied!)//It happens.
>"I think that's commendable. Have you not had much opportunity to practice?"
>"Well, surely you could make an arrangement with some other god to get them to agree to let you practice with them in your spare time? ...Do you get spare time?"> "Yeah. But I'm not sure about that... there's already a few ways I spend my spare time. And my goddesses wouldn't be too happy about me spending it on another god, if I had to guess."
>"Well, it's not an act of worship, is it? So it should be fine."> "Mm... I'll talk it over with them."
>"If anything, it's using other gods to make their priestess more able, so they should be all in favor of it."> "...hm. That would make sense. Maybe it is something to bother them with."
>"Ah, there they are!"> You wave to the approaching gods.
>Give a little wave in their direction.
>"Why are you and the others here?"> Shinki seems to give a knowing smile.
>Nearly call her mom, but stop ourselves.
>"Kanako, Sanae, this is Shinki, goddess of Makai. Shinki, this is Kanako the mountain goddess, and her priestess Sanae."> "Nice to meet you." Sanae greets.
>"That would be Sanae, yes. Both are rather famous for their youkai pacifying."> "Are rampaging youkai that common?" Shinki questions.
>They can call it extermination, we'll call it something better.
>"We have Incidents from time to time. It is a shrine maiden's job to resolve them."> "Incidents?"
>"Yes, the whole tour agency thing was an incident, too.""Ah, it certainly was... I had to destroy so mucj of our home, yet they still persisted and wanted us to leave Gensokyo. Hmph." Shinki pouts. "This time, Im personally seeing to it that we get our trip."
>"Oh, is that why you're here?"> "Well I did say I wanted to visit. Why is that so hard for others to believe?" She questions in confusion.
>She would still be dragging that weight...
>"It's something of a coincidence, you understand. And, yes, Yuki caused a bit of a problem."> "Ah. What did she do?"
>"A bit of mild trespassing, getting into fights. There was a misunderstanding, but she ought to have known better."> "Tresspassing?" Shinki questions, confused, before seemingly realizing. "Ah... I should've known that could be an issue."
>"Any other issues you should have known, before they happen?"> "Makai was like a free home to them, mostly. So I think trespassing might be the only issue..."
>"Mmmm. Theft?" I say. "Possibly fighting?"> "I doubt they'll take things from others. And fighting... Aren't the residents here more prone to starting fights than back at Makai?" Shinki questions. "They sure seemed like such..."
>"It's different here. We use spellcards"> "And those are...?"
>"Beauty is the difference. The point of a spellcard, and proper danmaku in general, is to be beautiful. You dazzle your opponent with your intricate patterns, your tricky motions, with the ideals you lay out in the attack. I'm sure you'd be quite good at it!"> "So it's more of a competition than an actual battle?"
>"It's a duel. There are rules, there is honor at stake, and these are enforced strongly."> "Eh? And you still have to go for beauty with strict rules? How bad are they?"
>"I don't think they're bad at all. The main rule is that there must always be some kind of solution. Perhaps it is obscure, perhaps it is well hidden in everything, but it should be there. Any idiot can make something you simply can't escape; a genius makes something that appears inescapable. And to make it as such, and make it dazzling, it is obvious who is most skilled, no?"> "Hm... Im afraid i might need a show of this in explanation..."
>"Sanae, might you demonstrate one of your spellcards for Lady Shinki?"> "Another? I mean, im not tired or anything but... Does it have to be me?" Sanae questions.
>"Let her see your best one, that would make the point the best, don't you think?"> "My... My best? Er, my bests usually use up some faith, or leave me kinda tired..."
>"I think it's worth it, don't you?"> "No. It's for cases where the duel I'm in has to be won. Like a big incident." Sanae argues.
>"I suppose we could duel, but I would need some space, where I don't have to worry about trampling over things."> "Would over the lake there work?" Meiling gestures.
>Gaze about the shrine, and see if this would make the criteria.
>How confident do we feel in our flight ability, all told?> You're not exceptionally fast, but aside from that you believe yourself a greater flier than most, and not really slow by common standards either.
>After becoming huge?> You haven't felt less capable in your trips this size so far.
>If so, say "That should do."
>"No, no, I am certain Sanae will push me to my limits."> "w-wait, who am I fighting?"
>Look to Sanae. "Shall we?"
>"Me, of course. Did I not say "I suppose we could duel"?"> "Alright. I'll get ready." Sanae flies off towards the nearby lake.
>Smile to Meiling: "I am sure even from here, you'll have an excellent view at your size, dear. But do get close as you can~"> "Alright, don't shoot me down. Or do. You'll be responsible!" Meiling teases.
>Fly after Sanae, take this time to get used to moving our new mass around.
>Call back, "I'll do my best!"> You are supposedly capable of using all your cards. Being larger wont make spell card trances have any worse effects, you think. You dont see why any spells wouldnt work properly, otherwise.
>Quickly go over our spell cards. This will probably just be one card s another, but reviewing our options is good tactics.
>What cards do we have? And what do they do, broadly speaking?>
>Let's go with Foggy London Dolls. No need to go fully all out.> You decide which you'll use and get into a proper space for the duel.
>Soar over the lake, and get within range of Sanae. "Ready?"
>Nod.> "Sea Opening ⌠Moses Miracle⌡" The wind priestess declares, and a sea of lasers starts to widen on both of your sides.
>Let her get and ready her card. When she declares hers, declare ours.
>Let's turn sideways to present a more narrow profile, it might matter at this size.> You start to try and stay near the walls, and the bullets are still manageable. This size is definitely making it harder than it wouldve been otherwise, however...
>Try to move along with the walls, and try to slip around the bullets as they come; let the dolls fire as they will.
>Take a moment to examine the danmake, looking for places where the shots converge and where they move apart, then try to get into the latter areas. For now, try to keep moving between those open spots, and move from one side of the sea, to the other.> You observe the field and wait...
>A time out is a victory, too. Let's continue as we are and let the dolls fire as they will, trying to group the shots so she has to either dodge through them the hard way, or around them the easy way, and focus on trying to snipe her if she does the latter. Within the constraints of our own movement; keep moving for where the shots diverge and away from where they converge.> As you're getting more used to this spell card, your efforts are easier to keep up. Unfortunately, Sanae stops her spell card, supposedly already out of energy?
>"Seems like a draw!"> "A draw? You captured it..." Sanae sighs. "I didn't expect you to be able to move so well at that size."
>"And you avoided mine, Sanae. I think it's a draw."> "I think i understand a bit more." Shinki nods slightly. "But what's the verdict if someone does get hit? Instant loss?"
>Look to Shinki. "More complexity, more deception, more beauty. Sanae, I should note, is extremely skilled with her defenses."
>"You feel it when you get hit. Eventually you just can't go any further."> "Really? Even from someone weaker?"
>Polite bow to Sanae. "Well done, you dodged nicely."> "I definitely feel like i lost though. To not be able to land a hit on someone so large, with one of my best spell cards, of which i don't think they've even seen yet... Thats my complete loss." Sanae descends towards the shore.
>"The both of you are going make me blush!"> "Just a bit of praise like this will embarrass you? I'm sure you could handle much more~" Meiling cheers.
>Perhaps we are actually blushing now, it's rare that we get praised!> "Regardless, that was great to see. Such a large figure still weaving through danmaku... So it is possible!"
>"You'd just need a little time to get used to it, Sanae, I'm certain!"
>"Hm?"> "It's nothing it's nothing. Just a girl's silly dreaming." Sanae waves the topic off.
>Chuckle.> "Ehehe... maybe." Sanae looks back to the shrine.
>"Dreaming about Lady Kanako's little experiment?"
>"Go on, then. let's hear it?"> "Huh? Why am I on the spot now?"
>"Because you're the one who spoke out loud, silly~"> "It was just a giant fighting... figure. Made by someone else. I thought the idea would be nice."
>Chuckle.
>"You don't have to, I'm just curious."
>"Different in what way?"//Oh huh. I didn't notice.
(Time for new thread, I think?)