Maidens of the Kaleidoscope
~Beyond the Border~ => Rumia's Party Games => Topic started by: Neovereign on September 26, 2023, 04:01:12 AM
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> A flash of light from the moon.
> Gensokyo finds itself altered in what can be assumed as more realistic ways.
> Yet some things have gotten even more mysterious. Some residents find themselves strengthened, while others realize the sky is exclusive to understandable flight.
> The mystery so far has been believed to be a mix of the outside world and Gensokyo, but will it stick?
Aya:
> "Still nothing else you're able to tell me, I assume?"
> Stick Ami into our chest feet-first so that her head is still visible but the rest of her is stored.
Seki:
> Let them load up.
> Then head off to Suzunaan! Our loose head was in it earlier, so we should know how to get there...
Aya:
> "Nope..."
Seki:
> You let the mansion residents, Alice, and your two close pals board. It still fits them all...
> "Huh... Maybe we should all pack in." Marisa considers. "That thing looks like it's just been fitting more and more people. We did just miss Aya's back."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Alright. Guess we'll wait for them to get here."
> Adopt a thinking expression.
> "Got anywhere private in the meantime?"
---
Seki:
> "Uh...sure...?"
-
Aya:
> "Alright. Guess we'll wait for them to get here."
> Adopt a thinking expression.
> "Got anywhere private in the meantime?"
---
Seki:
> "Uh...sure...?"
Aya:
> "What for?" Kosuzu questions.
Seki:
> "Hm... On second thought, we'd probably be making your friends uneasy. We'll see you there then."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Just a conversation with my subordinate here."
> Ruffle Ami's hair a bit.
---
Seki:
> "Well, it's up to you, I suppose. See you there, then."
> Head off to Suzunaan! Our loose head was in it earlier, so we should know how to get there...
-
Aya:
> "Just a conversation with my subordinate here."
> Ruffle Ami's hair a bit.
---
Seki:
> "Well, it's up to you, I suppose. See you there, then."
> Head off to Suzunaan! Our loose head was in it earlier, so we should know how to get there...
Aya:
> "Can't you go in uh..." Kosuzu looks back. "That place or whatever?"
Seki:
> You head off, actually so this time.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I wouldn't want to bother Lady Matara and her guests."
-
Aya:
> "I wouldn't want to bother Lady Matara and her guests."
Aya:
> "How bothersome would it be...?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "I'll just find somewhere outside, then."
> Head back outside, having a look around for a side alley or something.
-
Aya:
> "I'll just find somewhere outside, then."
> Head back outside, having a look around for a side alley or something.
Aya:
> "Should I be worried..." Kosuzu frowns.
> You head back out.
> "What's up?" Megumu asks, though you pass her by.
> You believe this is secluded enough.
Seki:
> You arrive. You can see the building Aya was at earlier up ahead.
>_
-
Aya:
> Can we see a cart incoming?
-
Aya:
> Can we see a cart incoming?
Aya:
> You weren't on the lookout for one. You don't hear one, at least.
>_
-
Aya:
> Send a wind whisper to Boss: "As long as we're waiting for that cart, might as well see what Ami can do. Let me know if you see it."
> Pull Ami out and place her standing upright on the ground.
-
Aya:
> Send a wind whisper to Boss: "As long as we're waiting for that cart, might as well see what Ami can do. Let me know if you see it."
> Pull Ami out and place her standing upright on the ground.
Aya:
> "You mean that?" Megumu points over as you retrieve Ami.
> It... does appear to be Seki's ride. You wonder why you didn't, or rather, still don't hear it moving.
>_
-
Aya:
> Blink.
> "Huh. That was fast. ...Am I losing my speed touch?"
> Head back inside.
Ami:
> Follow behind Miss Aya.
-
Aya:
> Blink.
> "Huh. That was fast. ...Am I losing my speed touch?"
> Head back inside.
Ami:
> Follow behind Miss Aya.
Aya:
> You return, followed by the two tengu...
>_
-
Aya:
> To Kosuzu: "Never mind that, looks like the rest are on their way."
-
Aya:
> To Kosuzu: "Never mind that, looks like the rest are on their way."
Aya:
> "Ah, good."
Seki:
> You stop in front of the store. This... doesn't look that appealing to the bystanders, it seems.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Looks like we're here, folks."
-
Seki:
> "Looks like we're here, folks."
Seki:
> Patchouli and Alice head out first.
>_
-
Aya:
> Open the door for the nerds. (Don't call them that.)
> "Welcome to Suzunaan, ladies."
-
Aya:
> Open the door for the nerds. (Don't call them that.)
> "Welcome to Suzunaan, ladies."
Aya:
> You open the door as the two enter.
> "I'm guessing you two are here about the book situation?"
> "So we've heard." Patchouli answers.
>_
-
Aya:
> To Boss: "Boss, you willing to supervise this?"
-
Aya:
> To Boss: "Boss, you willing to supervise this?"
Aya:
> "Huh? What do you mean?" Megumu questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> "This book-related meeting. I want to respect that my involvement is actively not wanted."
-
Aya:
> "This book-related meeting. I want to respect that my involvement is actively not wanted."
Aya:
> "And you think mine would be?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Are we currently inside or outside the shop?
> "It hasn't been objected to yet."
-
Aya:
> Are we currently inside or outside the shop?
> "It hasn't been objected to yet."
Aya:
> Right outside.
> "I haven't agreed either. I'd rather as few people as possible..." Kosuzu speaks, but stops for some reason.
> "Hm?"
> "That book... Give me."
> "Uh, no. This is my grimoire, and mine alone." Alice responds.
> Kosuzu does not look very happy with that response.
>_
-
Aya:
> How much do we know about that grimoire?
> To Kosuzu: "Don't go demanding too much of the people here to help you, sport. You're a businesswoman; surely you can work something out."
> To Boss: "Well, whatever you choose to do, Boss, I'm gonna keep trying what I was about to try just now, woke this whole book thing is taken care of. You're welcome to help us out if you want, but don't feel obligated."
> Exit the store again, returning to the secluded place we found previously.
Ami:
> Follow behind Miss Aya.
-
Aya:
> How much do we know about that grimoire?
> To Kosuzu: "Don't go demanding too much of the people here to help you, sport. You're a businesswoman; surely you can work something out."
> To Boss: "Well, whatever you choose to do, Boss, I'm gonna keep trying what I was about to try just now, woke this whole book thing is taken care of. You're welcome to help us out if you want, but don't feel obligated."
> Exit the store again, returning to the secluded place we found previously.
Ami:
> Follow behind Miss Aya.
Aya:
> You know it's something supposedly strong, and you think she doesn't actually open it often. She keeps it close to her at all times.
> Kosuzu glares.
> "Uh huh..." Megumu watches you head out with Ami.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Okay, Ami, tilt your head back and open your mouth again, so that it opens straight up.
Ami:
> Nod, and then do as instructed.
Aya:
> Float up a bit, getting right next to Ami, and then gently stick our hand followed by our arm into her mouth and down her throat. Only stop if we go in all the way to our shoulder, if it feels like we're going to hurt one or both of us by continuing, or Ami indicates that she wants us to stop.
Ami:
> How does this feel?
> If this gets to be too painful, begin tapping Miss Aya with a hand.
-
Aya:
> "Okay, Ami, tilt your head back and open your mouth again, so that it opens straight up.
Ami:
> Nod, and then do as instructed.
Aya:
> Float up a bit, getting right next to Ami, and then gently stick our hand followed by our arm into her mouth and down her throat. Only stop if we go in all the way to our shoulder, if it feels like we're going to hurt one or both of us by continuing, or Ami indicates that she wants us to stop.
Ami:
> How does this feel?
> If this gets to be too painful, begin tapping Miss Aya with a hand.
Aya:
> You start to try again, with a better angle and such now.
> You reach the same as last time, but like this, you can go a bit further. Maybe thanks to flying, but you can get your whole arm in.
Ami:
> You've had worse in terms of pain, it's just like struggling to eat too much all at once, alongside the pressure, of course. Nothing a Tengu can't handle if it's not even a minute...
>_
-
Ami:
> Wow...we're actually doing this...it's actually working...we were right to go to Miss Aya about this!
Aya:
> "Not bad, not bad. Let's try a little more."
> Slowly pull our arm out so as to not risk hurting either of us.
> Remove one geta (and the corresponding sock of there is one), storing them in our chest.
> Then float directly above Ami so that we're facing toward her, angle our foot so it's pointed as downward as we can manage, and gently lower our leg into Ami's mouth and down her throat. Only stop if we go in all the way to the top of our thigh, if it feels like we're going to hurt one or both of us by continuing, or Ami indicates that she wants us to stop.
Ami:
> How does this feel?
> If this gets to be too painful, begin tapping Miss Aya with a hand.
-
Ami:
> Wow...we're actually doing this...it's actually working...we were right to go to Miss Aya about this!
Aya:
> "Not bad, not bad. Let's try a little more."
> Slowly pull our arm out so as to not risk hurting either of us.
> Remove one geta (and the corresponding sock of there is one), storing them in our chest.
> Then float directly above Ami so that we're facing toward her, angle our foot so it's pointed as downward as we can manage, and gently lower our leg into Ami's mouth and down her throat. Only stop if we go in all the way to the top of our thigh, if it feels like we're going to hurt one or both of us by continuing, or Ami indicates that she wants us to stop.
Ami:
> How does this feel?
> If this gets to be too painful, begin tapping Miss Aya with a hand.
Aya:
> With one success, you try for another.
> Unfortunately, you do get to a limit. Not even from your legs being too big or anything, but in terms of room, or depth rather.
>_
-
Aya:
> Hmm...
> Try lightly poking around with the tip of our foot, to see if we can find further passage.
-
Aya:
> Hmm...
> Try lightly poking around with the tip of our foot, to see if we can find further passage.
Aya:
> You can't feel any of such...
>_
-
Aya:
> "Hmm. I'm going to try something else. Keep doing what you're doing."
> Gently pull out leg back up and out.
> Then rotate in the air so we're pointing ourselves straight down, extend both our arms out with hands together, and gently lower them into Ami like before. Keep our head clamped between our arms while doing this so that it can hopefully go in with them. Only stop if it feels like we're going to hurt one or both of us by continuing, or Ami indicates that she wants us to stop.
Ami:
> How does this feel?
> If this gets to be too painful, begin tapping Miss Aya with a hand.
-
Aya:
> "Hmm. I'm going to try something else. Keep doing what you're doing."
> Gently pull out leg back up and out.
> Then rotate in the air so we're pointing ourselves straight down, extend both our arms out with hands together, and gently lower them into Ami like before. Keep our head clamped between our arms while doing this so that it can hopefully go in with them. Only stop if it feels like we're going to hurt one or both of us by continuing, or Ami indicates that she wants us to stop.
Ami:
> How does this feel?
> If this gets to be too painful, begin tapping Miss Aya with a hand.
Aya:
> You can't get both of your arms in...
>_
-
Aya:
> Try getting our head in first, then.
-
Aya:
> Try getting our head in first, then.
Aya:
> You try...
> Even trying to hold Ami's mouth open, you're definitely not getting your head in.
>_
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> Get the one arm back in again as far as it will go.
> Then feel around for any spatial information that would be useful for getting our leg further.
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> Get the one arm back in again as far as it will go.
> Then feel around for any spatial information that would be useful for getting our leg further.
Aya:
> You reach your arm back in...
> You can't feel any ways further?
Ami:
> It's getting tiresome keeping your mouth open like this.
-
Ami:
> Try swallowing once to see what happens.
-
Ami:
> Try swallowing once to see what happens.
Ami:
> You try...
> It just hurts, nothing gets anywhere. Also makes you wish you had a water bottle or something along with you...
>_
-
Aya:
> What did that feel like?
-
Aya:
> What did that feel like?
Aya:
> Like she squeezed your arm, you believe. You didn't feel it going one way or another.
> Maybe you could do something with the wind. Though that probably won't let you reach any-
> You hear some crashing noises from the bookstore.
>_
-
Aya:
> Pull our arm back out.
> "Take a rest for a moment."
> Wind message to Boss: "What's going on in there?"
Ami:
> Rest our jaw for a bit.
-
Aya:
> Pull our arm back out.
> "Take a rest for a moment."
> Wind message to Boss: "What's going on in there?"
Ami:
> Rest our jaw for a bit.
Aya:
> You retrieve your arm.
> Megumu doesn't answer.
> You can hear more noises from the store.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Stay here."
> Rush back around to the front of the store.
-
Aya:
> "Stay here."
> Rush back around to the front of the store.
Aya:
> You return to the front of the store.
> There's a bookshelf knocked down. Behind it is Alice, next to the entrance of the store, and Patchouli beside her.
> On the other side of the desk is Kosuzu, who alongside a bit of a glow to her. appears to possess a larger body and longer hair.
> "I'm not willing to do a trade either." Alice speaks.
> "Then what about a simple touch - a feel for the cover, even." Kosuzu questions.
> "You sure are defensive about that thing, and stingy." Patchouli complains to Alice, then looks over to Kosuzu. "You know she won't even let me lay my hands on it."
>_
-
Aya:
> Can we get inside, or has the fallen shelf blocked the way?
> Where's Boss?
> ...Has Kosuzu's figure filled out at all? Or is she just taller?
-
Aya:
> Can we get inside, or has the fallen shelf blocked the way?
> Where's Boss?
> ...Has Kosuzu's figure filled out at all? Or is she just taller?
Aya:
> Yeah, easily.
> You look around. She appears to be knocked out beside a still standing bookshelf. None of the books on that one are knocked down.
> Certainly.
>_
-
Aya:
> Ah, dammit.
> Enter the store.
> "Hey, whoa, we can all be friends here. No need to get too aggressive with each other."
> Unless someone threatens us in an effort to stop us, make our way over to Boss and store her in our chest to her out of harm's way.
-
Aya:
> Ah, dammit.
> Enter the store.
> "Hey, whoa, we can all be friends here. No need to get too aggressive with each other."
> Unless someone threatens us in an effort to stop us, make our way over to Boss and store her in our chest to her out of harm's way.
Aya:
> You head in and load up Megumu.
> "I didn't see her strike her with anything." Patchouli claims.
> "Hm... Well, I can gauge some of it if you use it in a fight then. I'm sure that'll work." Kosuzu puts her hands on the desk.
> "You're really going to start a fight in the human village?" Alice asks, a tight grip on her grimoire.
> You can feel things moving within the store. Or at least, the wind being displaced by such, you believe...
>_
-
Aya:
> Keep a bit of focus on the winds to make sure we aren't caught by surprise by careening into us.
> "C'mon, Kosuzu, do you really want to dirty up that new smokin' hot figure of yours in a fight?"
-
Aya:
> Keep a bit of focus on the winds to make sure we aren't caught by surprise by careening into us.
> "C'mon, Kosuzu, do you really want to dirty up that new smokin' hot figure of yours in a fight?"
Aya:
> They seem to be... Ah, she's properly blocking the door with the shelves?
> "Well, I'm not used to fighting, but it can't be that hard. I've got a few ideas."
> "Alright, fine. Gensokyo's not really in any shape to handle infighting right now, so I'll let you feel my book." Alice sighs, heading to the desk.
> "Ah, really?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Where's Wriggle?
> Walk over next to Kosuzu.
> "You should know that this is a great honor. Make sure you properly appreciate the opportunity you're being given."
> Try gently placing a hand on Kosuzu's back.
> Also, feel for any suspicious wind flows in or out of Kosuzu.
-
Aya:
> Where's Wriggle?
> Walk over next to Kosuzu.
> "You should know that this is a great honor. Make sure you properly appreciate the opportunity you're being given."
> Try gently placing a hand on Kosuzu's back.
> Also, feel for any suspicious wind flows in or out of Kosuzu.
Aya:
> You don't see her around...
> You place a hand on Kosuzu's back.
> Well, she feels a different, but you don't notice anything like someone hiding behind her.
> "Yeah, like I said, she won't even let me see it's interior. Maybe I'll ask afterwards." Patchouli sighs.
> "Here." Alice holds the book up, to which Kosuzu holds her hands out acceptingly.
> Only for Alice to bring the book down over Kosuzu's head with a heavy THWACK, knocking the girl out cold...
> "...Nevermind me asking." Patchouli steps back.
> You hear another crash, as the bookshelves near the entrance, or at least one of them, falls over. Possibly from Kosuzu no longer doing her thing.
>_
-
Aya:
> Sigh.
> "My apologies, ladies, I had no idea this was going to happen. I didn't know she was even capable of doing this. I don't suppose you brought Reimu with you?"
> Gently lift Kosuzu in our arms.
-
Aya:
> Sigh.
> "My apologies, ladies, I had no idea this was going to happen. I didn't know she was even capable of doing this. I don't suppose you brought Reimu with you?"
> Gently lift Kosuzu in our arms.
Aya:
> You heft up Kosuzu.
> "It sounded like Marisa was interested in coming along, probably to get to that backdoor place since you left too quickly. Maybe they're on their way." Patchouli guesses.
> "Right, I'm... getting back up. That hurt, okay?" Kosuzu mumbles, holding her head.
> You don't think you've ever seen anyone recover that fast from being knocked out. Was she really?
>_
-
Aya:
> To Kosuzu, gently: "Whoa, take it easy there."
> If our hands are not already in The Regular Positions for carrying someone, shift them there now.
-
Aya:
> To Kosuzu, gently: "Whoa, take it easy there."
> If our hands are not already in The Regular Positions for carrying someone, shift them there now.
Aya:
> They have been.
> "T-There was so much magic in that... So much to tell." Kosuzu winces, looking over at Alice. "You're right to keep that out of others' hands... Sorry. But still, I want to see more of it! I have to!" Kosuzu seems to be getting her energy and enthusiasm back.
> "I wouldn't gain anything by letting you see any of my grimoire anyways, so no." Alice shakes her head.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Let's calm down, okay? You want to be friends with the people with neat books, not enemies, right?"
> Begin gently rubbing her backside with one hand.
-
Aya:
> "Let's calm down, okay? You want to be friends with the people with neat books, not enemies, right?"
> Begin gently rubbing her backside with one hand.
Aya:
> "I'll-" Kosuzu starts, before being surprised by your actions.
> There's a sudden gust of wind from the desk. Being your specialty, you can notice it's one of the books, before it knocks everyone back.
> "Can we stop with the fighting already?" Patchouli questions, annoyed as she puts her cap back on.
> "That wasn't me. I satisfied my curiosity already. Even if I want more of that book." Kosuzu claims, sitting back up from the back wall.
> "Have you already taken magic from my grimoire?" Alice questions, picking up the book responsible for such. Though her gaze trails over to another bookshelf behind the desk, then to Kosuzu's side.
> "I didn't take anything." Kosuzu retrieves a book from the shelf beside her. "I just... Uh... Used inspiration to invent something, yeah."
>_
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> Get back up if we need to.
> Scoop Kosuzu back up like previously, while taking on a sterner voice.
> "Kosuzu. These people are here to help with magic book problem you're having. Remember that? Can we focus on that?"
> Resume gently rubbing her backside with one hand. Gently squeeze once with the other.
> Wind whisper to Alice: "Get that book out of her sight as soon as you can. Stuff it into me when she's not looking if you have to."
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> Get back up if we need to.
> Scoop Kosuzu back up like previously, while taking on a sterner voice.
> "Kosuzu. These people are here to help with magic book problem you're having. Remember that? Can we focus on that?"
> Resume gently rubbing her backside with one hand. Gently squeeze once with the other.
> Wind whisper to Alice: "Get that book out of her sight as soon as you can. Stuff it into me when she's not looking if you have to."
Aya:
> You get back up and return to Kosuzu.
> Though, after you lift her up, she starts lifting you up instead...? Not in a very kind way, either, as she stands.
> She's just... staring up at you though.
>_
-
Aya:
> Is she carrying us like we were carrying her? Or are we simply hovering in the air?
> Give her a quizzical look.
> "Kosuzu?"
> Be prepared to get launched into something...
-
Aya:
> Is she carrying us like we were carrying her? Or are we simply hovering in the air?
> Give her a quizzical look.
> "Kosuzu?"
> Be prepared to get launched into something...
Aya:
> She's holding you by your top.
> "You, leave. The magicians can stay." She speaks a tad unnaturally. Like she's going to stumble over her words.
> "Don't you think it's a bit mean that she can't at least watch?" Alice asks.
> Kosuzu sets you down, clearing her throat.
> "Uh... Ah, I just don't exactly trust you. I heard you mention wanting Reimu to be here, and this isn't something you need to be involved with anyways..." She explains.
>_
-
Aya:
> Is Suzy taller than us at this point?
> "I brought her name up because I wanted her to care of you while you were knocked out. If you're awake again, there's no need for that."
> Frown sadly a bit.
> "I understand you don't really want me to be involved, but right now, independent of all this magic book stuff, my friend is acting really strangely, and it's worrying me that something is wrong. Like there's some part of her right now that isn't herself, but something, or someone, else. And I have a bone to pick with whatever, or whoever, that might be, for making my friend attack people and destroy her own beloved store."
-
Aya:
> Is Suzy taller than us at this point?
> "I brought her name up because I wanted her to care of you while you were knocked out. If you're awake again, there's no need for that."
> Frown sadly a bit.
> "I understand you don't really want me to be involved, but right now, independent of all this magic book stuff, my friend is acting really strangely, and it's worrying me that something is wrong. Like there's some part of her right now that isn't herself, but something, or someone, else. And I have a bone to pick with whatever, or whoever, that might be, for making my friend attack people and destroy her own beloved store."
Aya:
> Not quite.
> "It's something that's been travelling through the books to be in contact with her." Alice comments. "Like the one she has, now."
> "I'm not being made to do anything. These were all my choices. Aside from waking back up earlier. I'm doing something important here, and if it's screwed up, so is my friends lease on life." Kosuzu claims.
> "It's not very convincing when we have no proof that you're... you, and not just your "friend"." Patchouli argues.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I can tell that not everything you've said and done has been 100% you, Kosuzu. I'm been doing journalism for centuries, I know how to read people and their behavior."
> Sigh.
> "But we can set that aside for the time being and focus on saving your friend. In a peaceful manner. I'm perfectly willing to leave again to give you as much privacy as you need, but I need a promise, a commitment, from you and your friend that you're not going to attack or abduct the two people that came here specifically to help you."
-
Aya:
> "I can tell that not everything you've said and done has been 100% you, Kosuzu. I'm been doing journalism for centuries, I know how to read people and their behavior."
> Sigh.
> "But we can set that aside for the time being and focus on saving your friend. In a peaceful manner. I'm perfectly willing to leave again to give you as much privacy as you need, but I need a promise, a commitment, from you and your friend that you're not going to attack or abduct the two people that came here specifically to help you."
Aya:
> "I didn't attack them yet, nor was I going to." Kosuzu claims. "I wasn't trying to steal the book."
> "You did say things about wanting to fight." Patchouli points out.
> "Fighting doesn't mean people have to-..." She pauses. "Huh, it usually does? Hang on, I didn't know then! I was just going to like... coerce her into using that book."
> "Non-physically?" Alice questions.
> "Yeah!"
> "So, you mean threatening."
> "Uhh..."
> "I believe I have an idea. Why not let your friend speak with us? Either through you or another medium." Patchy suggests.
Seki:
> "I told you it's nothing Patchy wouldn't be able to handle." Remilia claims.
> "Are you sure she's the one that handled it, and not the one being handled?" Kagerou asks.
> "She does have a point. For as capable as Lady Patchouli is, incidents invite all sorts of surprises." You hear Sakuya.
>_
-
Aya:
> Sigh with a slight smile.
> "Oh, Suzy."
> Gently hug her from behind.
> "If your friend wants a medium to speak through, I'm willing to volunteer. I trust you'll keep me safe."
> Grin a little.
> "And who knows? Maybe you'll find out a little more about your friend than you expected~"
> Give her backside a little squeeze with one hand before returning to the hug.
---
Seki:
> "...Does that tengu really know what's she's doing? This seems potentially really dangerous."
---
Ami:
> Are we still just standing here?
> How's our jaw?
-
Aya:
> Sigh with a slight smile.
> "Oh, Suzy."
> Gently hug her from behind.
> "If your friend wants a medium to speak through, I'm willing to volunteer. I trust you'll keep me safe."
> Grin a little.
> "And who knows? Maybe you'll find out a little more about your friend than you expected~"
> Give her backside a little squeeze with one hand before returning to the hug.
---
Seki:
> "...Does that tengu really know what's she's doing? This seems potentially really dangerous."
---
Ami:
> Are we still just standing here?
> How's our jaw?
Aya:
> "I'm pretty sure they trust you less."
> You give Kosuzu another squeeze and continue to hug her. Though she doesn't respond.
> After a moment of hang up, she speaks again.
> "Kosuzu's friend, here." She speaks, noticeably different. Much moreso than stumbling over her words. "Still nameless, as she explained, there's more important things to do first."
> "So it would seem." Alice observes. "There isn't a lot of energy, but it feels like she's possessed."
> "Kosuzu seems quite the capable young lady, but having her do this alone is tiring her out. So if either of you could help out a youkai in getting stronger, that'd be swell."
Seki:
> "Do you want to go in and help?" Remilia questions.
Ami:
> Yes.
> Better. But you wish you could just snap it and make it feel better, like a massage or cracking one's back.
>_
-
Aya:
> Make a quiet whimper of sad dissatisfaction and let go of the hug out of respect for whomever this now is.
> Do we know anything about helping a youkai grow stronger? Is human acknowledgement and belief sufficient, or is there more to it than that?
---
Seki:
> Shake our head rapidly.
> "If that boss tengu lady could get knocked out that quickly, I wouldn't last a second."
---
Ami:
> It's been a while...
> Head back to the storefront and have a peek inside.
-
Aya:
> Make a quiet whimper of sad dissatisfaction and let go of the hug out of respect for whomever this now is.
> Do we know anything about helping a youkai grow stronger? Is human acknowledgement and belief sufficient, or is there more to it than that?
---
Seki:
> Shake our head rapidly.
> "If that boss tengu lady could get knocked out that quickly, I wouldn't last a second."
---
Ami:
> It's been a while...
> Head back to the storefront and have a peek inside.
Aya:
> You let go.
> Not too much. There's the general information about youkai getting stronger through things like tales and notoriety. Some grow more through the years, like Kitsune. You suppose it depends on what kind of Youkai Kosuzu's friend is.
> "Research is a magician's best friend." Alice comments. "Experimenting, too."
> "Subjecting Kosuzu here to more Youkai business than what she already deals with isn't my highest priority, so i dont want to drag her into any expeirments."
> "For a youkai, you really don't like sacrifices, do you?" Patchouli questions.
Seki:
> "No employee of mine is going to sell themselves short. Not when I believe in them." Remilia boasts. "Your destiny isn't that insignificant."
> "Lady Patchouli would probably have made fun of you saying something like that."
> You can see someone flying towards here. Though they don't have wings.
> Ah, it's Reimu. With Marisa... being carried by her. Though there's also more following behind. A few winged.
Ami:
> There's a couple shelves in the way, but one is knocked down.
> It looks like a fight broke out, but Aya must've stopped it. You don't see Megumu around, however.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Hey, wait. Is it specifically your possession of Kosuzu that's exhausting her? Because if you need at least a temporary body, you can probably borrow this."
> Pull out the Banki head we have stored and show it off.
Seki:
> "Your confidence is appreciated, Milady, bu-"
> Go wide-eyed.
> "HEY!!"
> Rush into the store!
Ami:
> Oop, we probably shouldn't interfere with whatever this is about to be...
> Saunter on over to the cart where those others are, out of lack of better options.
-
Aya:
> "Hey, wait. Is it specifically your possession of Kosuzu that's exhausting her? Because if you need at least a temporary body, you can probably borrow this."
> Pull out the Banki head we have stored and show it off.
Seki:
> "Your confidence is appreciated, Milady, bu-"
> Go wide-eyed.
> "HEY!!"
> Rush into the store!
Ami:
> Oop, we probably shouldn't interfere with whatever this is about to be...
> Saunter on over to the cart where those others are, out of lack of better options.
Aya:
> You show off the bodyless head.
> "Unless they can draw out the powers of a book well, then it might end up much worse than Kosuzu's situation. Even if it were someone like you, or that other Tengu, or that ace of spades shrine maiden."
> Kosuzu seems to snap back to reality, her posture and voice noticeably changing again.
> "D-Don't use my mouth to say something like that about Reimu."
Seki:
> You dart off for the store, vaulting over the fallen bookshelf.
Ami:
> You head over to the cart, almost getting knocked over by the driver suddenly rushing off.
>_
-
Aya:
> Look to Banki.
> "Hey, how are you with books?"
Seki:
> "Wh-! Don't just give my head away for other people to possess!"
> Look to whoever just mentioned the shrine maiden.
> "By the way, it looks like Reimu's coming. Just so you know."
Aya:
> "Ah..."
> Look to whoever's in charge of Kosuzu's body at the moment.
> "I'll keep her calm. We can continue working on this in the meantime. Alice, do you have a doll you can lend to this person? Or maybe Patchouli, you wouldn't happen to have another familiar in your back pocket, would you?"
---
Ami:
> Take a moment to steady ourselves after getting nearly run over.
> Then look up at whomever's in the cart.
> "Um, hello again...what's, uh...what's going on in that shop?"
-
Aya:
> Look to Banki.
> "Hey, how are you with books?"
Seki:
> "Wh-! Don't just give my head away for other people to possess!"
> Look to whoever just mentioned the shrine maiden.
> "By the way, it looks like Reimu's coming. Just so you know."
Aya:
> "Ah..."
> Look to whoever's in charge of Kosuzu's body at the moment.
> "I'll keep her calm. We can continue working on this in the meantime. Alice, do you have a doll you can lend to this person? Or maybe Patchouli, you wouldn't happen to have another familiar in your back pocket, would you?"
---
Ami:
> Take a moment to steady ourselves after getting nearly run over.
> Then look up at whomever's in the cart.
> "Um, hello again...what's, uh...what's going on in that shop?"
Aya:
> Kosuzu seems to be back in the hot seat, you believe.
> "What for?" Alice questions, creating a small doll on the spot...
> "If she asks for me, tell her I'm still asleep!" Kosuzu starts for a side of the library.
Ami:
> You peek in.
> "Something Patchouli has taken care of, I'm sure." Remilia speaks.
>_
-
Aya:
> To Alice: "To give that person a body to possess."
> Trot off behind Kosuzu.
> "That may not work with how your front room looks like a war zone right now."
---
Ami:
> "I see...do you know where Lady Iizunamaru went? Tall karasu daitengu with lots of blue and black, carries a tripod with her? I thought she was still in there, but I don't see her."
-
Aya:
> To Alice: "To give that person a body to possess."
> Trot off behind Kosuzu.
> "That may not work with how your front room looks like a war zone right now."
---
Ami:
> "I see...do you know where Lady Iizunamaru went? Tall karasu daitengu with lots of blue and black, carries a tripod with her? I thought she was still in there, but I don't see her."
Aya:
> Alice looks down at the doll, then back up at you.
> "Trust me, it will." Kosuzu says, heading to a shelf and sitting down.
> Her appearance changes to the smaller one from before, as she sets the book in her hands up, like she's reading it. Loosely held.
Ami:
> "I didn't see anyone like that pass by out here." The mermaid speaks.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Aww, why not keep the new look? It suits you really well."
> Make for a fallen-over bookshelf and trying lifting it back upright.
---
Ami:
> Nod.
> "That must mean she's inside somewhere...thank you for telling me this."
> ...
> ...Based on what we did with Aya earlier...do we think we could get that mermaid down? Or is her tail too wide? (Don't stare.)
-
Aya:
> "Aww, why not keep the new look? It suits you really well."
> Make for a fallen-over bookshelf and trying lifting it back upright.
---
Ami:
> Nod.
> "That must mean she's inside somewhere...thank you for telling me this."
> ...
> ...Based on what we did with Aya earlier...do we think we could get that mermaid down? Or is her tail too wide? (Don't stare.)
Aya:
> "That'd get her suspicious."
> You start to lift one of the bookshelves back up. A few more books spill out, naturally...
Ami:
> "No problem."
> Maybe the end, but the rest of the tail looks like too much. Too large.
>_
-
Aya:
> Store the Banki head we have once again.
> "If you're supposed to be sleeping, she's not going to see you anyway, right?"
> Once we get the bookshelf upright, place the books that fell out on top of the shelf.
Seki:
> Look to Patchouli.
> "Do you think you have this situation covered, Lady Patchouli?"
Ami:
> "Oh, Miss Aya...I should probably help her with that. Hopefully she's not the one that made that mess."
> Head inside the shop.
-
Aya:
> Store the Banki head we have once again.
> "If you're supposed to be sleeping, she's not going to see you anyway, right?"
> Once we get the bookshelf upright, place the books that fell out on top of the shelf.
Seki:
> Look to Patchouli.
> "Do you think you have this situation covered, Lady Patchouli?"
Ami:
> "Oh, Miss Aya...I should probably help her with that. Hopefully she's not the one that made that mess."
> Head inside the shop.
Aya:
> "She might look for me. If I hide instead, that'll only make things more suspicious. Especially with that place back there hanging out here." Kosuzu explains.
Seki:
> "It seems to be wrapping up." Patchouli answers.
Ami:
> You head into the store.
>_
-
Aya:
> Sigh.
> "Very well, as you wish."
> Look to who just entered.
> "...Ami? Why are you here?"
Ami:
> "Things were taking a while, so...do you need any help?"
Aya:
> "...Sure, yeah. Let's get this place cleaned up as best we can."
Tengu:
> Continue working on getting bookshelves upright again, with loose and fallen books placed on top as needed.
---
Seki:
> "Alright. I'll return to Milady, then."
> Exit the store and go back to our cart.
-
Aya:
> Sigh.
> "Very well, as you wish."
> Look to who just entered.
> "...Ami? Why are you here?"
Ami:
> "Things were taking a while, so...do you need any help?"
Aya:
> "...Sure, yeah. Let's get this place cleaned up as best we can."
Tengu:
> Continue working on getting bookshelves upright again, with loose and fallen books placed on top as needed.
---
Seki:
> "Alright. I'll return to Milady, then."
> Exit the store and go back to our cart.
Aya:
> "You can leave things messed up if you want. Reimu will likely think that I just got caught up in reading a lot."
> You start to fix the place up, with Alice deploying dolls to return some of the books too.
Seki:
> You return to your carriage, sporting Reimu and most of the group from the lake walking towards you.
> "Some of you already stand out. You'd cause panic if you just flew in." Reimu speaks.
> "Even if it's just a fairy?"
> "You're anything but just a fairy. Some of them might think some god has come to make them repent."
> "..."
> "Don't get any funny ideas."
> "Sure, sure..."
> "And they won't be frightened by an actual god?"
> "...Just don't go causing trouble."
>_
-
Aya:
> Glance outside to take note of Reimu, then return to our tidying.
> Wind whisper to Kosuzu: "Consider this free labor for your folks after I caused their daughter and her friend so much distress. Reimu's here, so act accordingly."
> If we can from inside the building, try wind whispering into Reimu's ear: "Hey there, cutie~"
Seki:
> Slowly reposition ourselves to be closer to our GYN friends, for solidarity.
-
Aya:
> Glance outside to take note of Reimu, then return to our tidying.
> Wind whisper to Kosuzu: "Consider this free labor for your folks after I caused their daughter and her friend so much distress. Reimu's here, so act accordingly."
> If we can from inside the building, try wind whispering into Reimu's ear: "Hey there, cutie~"
Seki:
> Slowly reposition ourselves to be closer to our GYN friends, for solidarity.
Aya:
> You don't see her yet, but you can feel a group on the way, near the store.
Seki:
> You head into the carriage instead of the driver's seat
Aya:
> After a few moments, said group enters the store. Though you Tengu are quick, and the dolls have helped make sure nothing else is floored.
> "Oh, I see it." Marisa points. "That looks like it."
> "Where's Kosuzu?" Reimu asks, as if that were her only concern.
>_
-
Aya:
> Take a slightly quieter tone of voice (but still audible enough for Reimu to hear): "Still sleeping, last I checked."
> Glance at what Marisa is pointing at.
-
Aya:
> Take a slightly quieter tone of voice (but still audible enough for Reimu to hear): "Still sleeping, last I checked."
> Glance at what Marisa is pointing at.
Aya:
> Reimu looks over.
> "Huh. Surprised you didn't wake her for something. Oh well, let her sleep, she shouldn't have to worry about more problems in Gensokyo anyways."
> It's the backdoor realm in here. Okina's place.
> Marisa leads the way, with Reimu and the rest following.
> You wonder if the three fairies of light will return to the lake, wondering where everyone went...
>_
-
Ami:
> Give Miss Aya a puzzled look, but say nothing.
Aya:
> Wind-whisper to where we remember Kosuzu being: "She bought it. But you have a lot more guests now. Be careful."
-
Ami:
> Give Miss Aya a puzzled look, but say nothing.
Aya:
> Wind-whisper to where we remember Kosuzu being: "She bought it. But you have a lot more guests now. Be careful."
Aya:
> Kosuzu nods, quietly starting to get up.
>_
-
Aya:
> Look to Ami like nothing is going on.
> Quietly: "Let's double-check around to make sure nothing is amiss."
Ami:
> Also quietly: "Um...okay."
Tengu:
> Scout the shop area for other thigns that need tidying, and take care of them as we find them.
-
Aya:
> Look to Ami like nothing is going on.
> Quietly: "Let's double-check around to make sure nothing is amiss."
Ami:
> Also quietly: "Um...okay."
Tengu:
> Scout the shop area for other thigns that need tidying, and take care of them as we find them.
Aya:
> It seems all good now. Kosuzu didn't make too much of a mess.
>_
-
Aya:
> Quietly, to Ami: "How're you holding up, anyway?"
Ami:
> Quietly: "Better. Jaw's still a little sore, but I could resume if the opportunity presented itself and you thought it worth trying."
Aya:
> Quietly: "There is one other thing I want to check, actually. We can do it right here, you don't need to get in a special position or anything. Just keep your mouth open a bit."
> Walk over to Ami.
Ami:
> Open our mouth some. Not all the way, we don't need to hurt ourselves.
Aya:
> Quietly: "Hold your breath as best you can. This might feel weird."
> Once we're up close next to Ami, send some investigatory wind into her mouth and down her throat, to try to get an idea of the shape of where our foot stopped when we couldn't get our leg in any further. Hopefully there's a passage of some kind that we missed...
-
Aya:
> Quietly, to Ami: "How're you holding up, anyway?"
Ami:
> Quietly: "Better. Jaw's still a little sore, but I could resume if the opportunity presented itself and you thought it worth trying."
Aya:
> Quietly: "There is one other thing I want to check, actually. We can do it right here, you don't need to get in a special position or anything. Just keep your mouth open a bit."
> Walk over to Ami.
Ami:
> Open our mouth some. Not all the way, we don't need to hurt ourselves.
Aya:
> Quietly: "Hold your breath as best you can. This might feel weird."
> Once we're up close next to Ami, send some investigatory wind into her mouth and down her throat, to try to get an idea of the shape of where our foot stopped when we couldn't get our leg in any further. Hopefully there's a passage of some kind that we missed...
Aya:
> You gather up with Ami and try to use wind to your advantage.
> It does feel like you missed it. Though at the same time, if you're not mistaken, it doesn't seem like you can get through at your sizes.
>_
-
Aya:
> Does it seem like we could at least position our foot to try to push our way through? Or is it too off-center to reposition our leg to get to it?
-
Aya:
> Does it seem like we could at least position our foot to try to push our way through? Or is it too off-center to reposition our leg to get to it?
Aya:
> You don't think it could work...
>_
-
Aya:
> What if we tried bending our knee while it's in there?
-
Aya:
> What if we tried bending our knee while it's in there?
Aya:
> There definitely wouldn't be enough room to do so.
>_
-
Aya:
> Quietly: "Alright, I'll fill you in in a bit."
Ami:
> Nod.
> Quietly: "Okay. Where did Lady Iizunamaru go, anyway?"
Aya:
> Retrieve Boss's head to show Ami.
-
Aya:
> Quietly: "Alright, I'll fill you in in a bit."
Ami:
> Nod.
> Quietly: "Okay. Where did Lady Iizunamaru go, anyway?"
Aya:
> Retrieve Boss's head to show Ami.
Aya:
> You pull Megumu out a bit.
> Unlike Kosuzu, she's taking a while to recover. Maybe she's just enjoying her sleep?
>_
-
Ami:
> Look mildly worried.
> Quietly: "Is she okay?"
Aya:
> Quietly: "She will be."
> Return Boss to storage.
> Quietly: "Now let's go see what that group is up to, shall we?"
Ami:
> Quietly: "...Actually, I'll ride along with you, if that's okay. Please retrieve me when things settle down, or if you need me."
> Walk over to Aya and deposit ourselves into her.
Aya:
> Blink, then shrug with a slight smile.
> Walk over to Kosuzu and lightly ruffle her hair some.
> Wind whisper to Kosuzu: "I hope you'll let me see that new look a lot more, up close and in more detail~"
> Then pursue Reimu and the others.
-
Ami:
> Look mildly worried.
> Quietly: "Is she okay?"
Aya:
> Quietly: "She will be."
> Return Boss to storage.
> Quietly: "Now let's go see what that group is up to, shall we?"
Ami:
> Quietly: "...Actually, I'll ride along with you, if that's okay. Please retrieve me when things settle down, or if you need me."
> Walk over to Aya and deposit ourselves into her.
Aya:
> Blink, then shrug with a slight smile.
> Walk over to Kosuzu and lightly ruffle her hair some.
> Wind whisper to Kosuzu: "I hope you'll let me see that new look a lot more, up close and in more detail~"
> Then pursue Reimu and the others.
Aya:
> You regroup and follow the others into the backdoor realm.
> "This seems spacious enough." Marisa states. "Nice."
>_
-
Aya:
> How large are we at this point?
> Did Kosuzu react at all to our interactions with her?
> "She volunteered it for a reason, after all."
-
Aya:
> How large are we at this point?
> Did Kosuzu react at all to our interactions with her?
> "She volunteered it for a reason, after all."
Aya:
> You've grown a sizeable bit with Suzaku, Ami, and Megumu. You can still fit in the door though, one way or another.
> She's been keeping up airs of a "waking up" mood, rubbing her eyes and nodding.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Lady Matara, a few guests have arrived."
-
Aya:
> "Lady Matara, a few guests have arrived."
Aya:
> "I can see that, thank you." Okina responds. "It's hard to miss all of you coming in at once."
>_
-
Aya:
> Grin a bit.
> "I do my best to be noticeable when it's warranted."
-
Aya:
> Grin a bit.
> "I do my best to be noticeable when it's warranted."
Aya:
> "Notice the lack of crowdedness? Weren't we supposed to be looking for more people?" Reimu questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Do you want me to head back to the lake so you can yank them all into here through my back?"
-
Aya:
> "Do you want me to head back to the lake so you can yank them all into here through my back?"
Aya:
> "Anywhere, really. I doubt everyone major in Gensokyo just went to the lake by the time we got here."
>_
-
Aya:
> "I can just fly around everywhere, sure."
-
Aya:
> "I can just fly around everywhere, sure."
Aya:
> "Mm. Who else is it that we need to get, actually?" Koakuma questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> Which major players are here at the moment?
-
Aya:
> Which major players are here at the moment?
Aya:
> You see everyone from the lake group here. Minus the Scarlet crew, though given Seki showed up, you suspect they're with her.
>_
-
Aya:
> Is Satori here?
> "There are a couple of folks to still pick up. The Lunarians, both domestic and foreign if the latter are interested. The Shining Needle Castle folks. Probably some others I'm forgetting."
-
Aya:
> Is Satori here?
> "There are a couple of folks to still pick up. The Lunarians, both domestic and foreign if the latter are interested. The Shining Needle Castle folks. Probably some others I'm forgetting."
Aya:
> No.
> "Good luck then. We'll be here. Unless you need a hand."
>_
-
Aya:
> Casually gesture at our...enhanced self.
> "I mean, I'll never say no to immediate company. But in terms of strict need, I should be okay. Not like I can't just yell at my own back for assistance if I need it anyway."
-
Aya:
> Casually gesture at our...enhanced self.
> "I mean, I'll never say no to immediate company. But in terms of strict need, I should be okay. Not like I can't just yell at my own back for assistance if I need it anyway."
Aya:
> "Good luck, then."
>_
-
Aya:
> Flash the speaker a thumbs-up.
> Then head out of the pocket dimension and back to where Kosuzu is.
-
Aya:
> Flash the speaker a thumbs-up.
> Then head out of the pocket dimension and back to where Kosuzu is.
Aya:
> You return to Suzunaan. Kosuzu's no longer putting on airs now. Though, she's still in the appearance you usually know, instead of the new one.
>_
-
Aya:
> Wind whisper to Kosuzu: "Reimu's in the backdoor dimension now, so you're probably fine to be your true self again."
-
Aya:
> Wind whisper to Kosuzu: "Reimu's in the backdoor dimension now, so you're probably fine to be your true self again."
Aya:
> "I don't want to take the chance yet..." Kosuzu looks aside. "She'll probably get worried I'm trying something I can't handle."
>_
-
Aya:
> Quietly: "I'll vouch for you if she does."
> Quietly: "...Also, please do tell me if I'm coming on too strong or making you uncomfortable with my behavior."
-
Aya:
> Quietly: "I'll vouch for you if she does."
> Quietly: "...Also, please do tell me if I'm coming on too strong or making you uncomfortable with my behavior."
Aya:
> Kosuzu chuckles.
> "I know I look great now. This stuff happeing to Gensokyo hasn't seemed too bad either. But I uh..."
> Kosuzu pauses.
> "Yeah, I guess I am running away from getting Reimu involved in any of this. But she has other things to do, and is always too worried about me when it comes to me. Like even when she came in here, she wanted to know about me, like I knew she would."
>_
-
Aya:
> Quietly: "That's just because she cares, like I do. But you'll notice she took a youkai's word for it that you're sleeping and led a parade of youkai into the shop part a bunch more youkai that were already there. I think maybe she trusts you'll be fine to some degree. And if she does see the real you, you can probably just blame it on what happened to Gensokyo."
> Quietly: "So why not let yourself be yourself? If not for me, then for you. Not that I wouldn't still give you 'attention', of course~"
-
Aya:
> Quietly: "That's just because she cares, like I do. But you'll notice she took a youkai's word for it that you're sleeping and led a parade of youkai into the shop part a bunch more youkai that were already there. I think maybe she trusts you'll be fine to some degree. And if she does see the real you, you can probably just blame it on what happened to Gensokyo."
> Quietly: "So why not let yourself be yourself? If not for me, then for you. Not that I wouldn't still give you 'attention', of course~"
Aya:
> "...Later." Kosuzu decides."
>_
-
Aya:
> Pout just the tiniest bit.
> Quietly: "Aww. Well, if that's what you want, it's your call."
> Quietly: "Anyway, don't leave Alice and Patchouli waiting for too much longer. I'm going to continue running around everywhere and gathering people."
-
Aya:
> Pout just the tiniest bit.
> Quietly: "Aww. Well, if that's what you want, it's your call."
> Quietly: "Anyway, don't leave Alice and Patchouli waiting for too much longer. I'm going to continue running around everywhere and gathering people."
Aya:
> Kosuzu looks back towards the meeting point in thought.
> You notice Youmu arrive at Suzunaan. Of course, her group is following, but the surprising thing is what seems like the new additions to it. Notably, the Watatsuki sisters.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Ah..."
> Look sheepish and step to the side out of their way.
-
Aya:
> "Ah..."
> Look sheepish and step to the side out of their way.
Aya:
> "So this is what they meant by the Village." Youmu speaks.
> "You didn't even know where we were supposed to be headed?" Yorihime questions.
> "Shut it. We got here quick enough. At least we didn't have to scramble around the whole village in wondering where to go." Mokou snaps, as the group heads for the back.
> "Unless you already told more about this meeting, that's probably going to be the only one that comes..." Wriggle speaks up, coming out of hiding with a shrug. "I did what I could."
Seki:
> You can see more people heading for this store. A small group, with two, no, three of them appearing to be bunnies?
>_
-
Aya:
> Did Yorihime seem to take note of us at all?
-
Aya:
> Did Yorihime seem to take note of us at all?
Aya:
> Not really.
>_
-
Seki:
> Do we recognize any of them?
Aya:
> Wind whisper to Yorihime: "If you want satisfaction, have one of them retrieve me, and it's yours."
> Exit the shop.
-
Seki:
> Do we recognize any of them?
Aya:
> Wind whisper to Yorihime: "If you want satisfaction, have one of them retrieve me, and it's yours."
> Exit the shop.
Seki:
> You don't think you remember any of their faces well.
Aya:
> You exit the shop, spotting Kaguya, Eirin, Reisen, Tewi, and the bunny that was with the Watatsukis heading in.
> At least this time you're acknowledged, with Reisen giving a brief wave.
>_
-
Aya:
> Return Reisen's wave with a smile.
> "Hey, good to see you all again! And not just because this saves me a trip. Is the Bamboo Forest still being even weirder than usual, or did that clear up?"
-
Aya:
> Return Reisen's wave with a smile.
> "Hey, good to see you all again! And not just because this saves me a trip. Is the Bamboo Forest still being even weirder than usual, or did that clear up?"
Aya:
> "Yea..." Reisen sighs. "It still really makes you lost."
>_
-
Aya:
> "But you can at least get out of it now?"
-
Aya:
> "But you can at least get out of it now?"
Aya:
> "We can, yes." Reisen stops to speak, while the rest follow towards the other realm.
>_
-
Aya:
> Grimace a bit.
> "Makes me glad I didn't have to make the trip."
> Nod our head in the shop's direction while still looking in Reisen's direction, grinning at her.
> "Anyway, best you get in there before your presence in my close vicinity gives Youmu a renewed determination to kill me."
-
Aya:
> Grimace a bit.
> "Makes me glad I didn't have to make the trip."
> Nod our head in the shop's direction while still looking in Reisen's direction, grinning at her.
> "Anyway, best you get in there before your presence in my close vicinity gives Youmu a renewed determination to kill me."
Aya:
> "She wouldn't do that." Reisen puts a hand to her chin. "She seems like she's just busy. Or maybe not looking forward to something. Why, do you think you wronged her?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "'We'? No, not at all. You did nothing wrong. I just happened to notice that, the last time I even thought about...getting to know you better, shall we say, she immediately put a stop to it."
-
Aya:
> "'We'? No, not at all. You did nothing wrong. I just happened to notice that, the last time I even thought about...getting to know you better, shall we say, she immediately put a stop to it."
Aya:
> "Hm..."
> "She's just protective of her girlfriend. Now hurry up." One of the rabbits calls.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Yes, that. Don't let me try to steal you from her. For everyone's sake."
-
Aya:
> "Yes, that. Don't let me try to steal you from her. For everyone's sake."
Aya:
> Ah...uh huh..." Reisen continues on.
>_
-
Aya:
> Wind whisper to Reisen: "Or do let me try to steal you from her, if you really want~"
> Get out sock and geta back on, and then head to the Hieda manor.
-
Aya:
> Wind whisper to Reisen: "Or do let me try to steal you from her, if you really want~"
> Get out sock and geta back on, and then head to the Hieda manor.
Aya:
> You depart, leaving for Akyuu's place.
>_
-
Seki:
> Who's in the cart at this point? Anyone important?
-
Seki:
> Who's in the cart at this point? Anyone important?
Seki:
> The Scarlet troupe are still here, for some reason...
Aya:
> You arrive at the entrance.
>_
-
Aya:
> Knock on the door.
---
Seki:
> "Will you be joining everyone, milady?"
-
Aya:
> Knock on the door.
---
Seki:
> "Will you be joining everyone, milady?"
Aya:
> You knock...
> ...
> No response.
Seki:
> "Hm? Everyone in what?"
> "I think Reimu just came by." Kagerou speaks.
> "Ah! Sakuya, let's go." Remilia states.
> The maid gets up, and the rest of the Scarlet group vanishes...
>_
-
Aya:
> Try letting ourselves in.
---
Seki:
> Is it just our friends and us, then?
-
Aya:
> Try letting ourselves in.
---
Seki:
> Is it just our friends and us, then?
Aya:
> You-
> ...
> Locked.
Seki:
> Yes.
>_
-
Aya:
> Knock on the door a little harder.
> "Akyuu? You in there?"
---
Seki:
> "So...what do you wanna do while they all do their important thing?"
-
Aya:
> Knock on the door a little harder.
> "Akyuu? You in there?"
---
Seki:
> "So...what do you wanna do while they all do their important thing?"
Aya:
> ...
> Still no response
Seki:
> "We aren't heading in, as representatives for the grassroots network?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Look around for an alternate means of entry.
---
Seki:
> "We could do that, sure."
-
Aya:
> Look around for an alternate means of entry.
---
Seki:
> "We could do that, sure."
Aya:
> There's windows you might be able to use.
Seki:
> "Which of us should go?"
> "Why not al of us??"
>_
-
Aya:
> Have a look inside the window, at least.
---
Seki:
> "I...don't really need to be there, if you two and milady are all going to be there. I'll go with you if you want, though."
-
Aya:
> Have a look inside the window, at least.
---
Seki:
> "I...don't really need to be there, if you two and milady are all going to be there. I'll go with you if you want, though."
Aya:
> You peer inside...
> You don't see anyone around immediately.
>_
-
Aya:
> Try opening the window.
---
Seki:
> Parse the previous thing.
-
Aya:
> Try opening the window.
---
Seki:
> Parse the previous thing.
Aya:
> You try, but it's also locked.
Seki:
> "What do you mean you don't need to be? Aren't you like, the vampire's special travel?"
> "It's important figures, I think it was said. So even some of them currently there shouldn't have to be. But even so, it does save on telling the news to each person."
-
Aya:
> Search around the manor grounds for any other means of entry. Check any windows we come across.
---
Seki:
> "Yeah, I'm not an important enough figure to warrant making decisions."
-
Aya:
> Search around the manor grounds for any other means of entry. Check any windows we come across.
---
Seki:
> "Yeah, I'm not an important enough figure to warrant making decisions."
Aya:
> You fly around in search...
> ...
> Every way seems locked. Strange.
Seki:
> The two don't seem happy with you saying that.
>_
-
Aya:
> Look down at our torso.
> "Lady Yakumo?"
---
Seki:
> Frown.
> "What? I don't want responsibility."
-
Aya:
> Look down at our torso.
> "Lady Yakumo?"
---
Seki:
> Frown.
> "What? I don't want responsibility."
Aya:
> No Answer... perhaps she's bu-
> "Hm?" Yukari asks, from behind you
Seki:
> They still seem upset.
>_
-
Aya:
> Turn around to look for her, keeping in mind she may be in our back.
> "Any idea where Akyuu is? Doesn't look like anyone's home here."
---
Seki:
> Sigh.
> "Fiiiiine, I'll go with."
-
Aya:
> Turn around to look for her, keeping in mind she may be in our back.
> "Any idea where Akyuu is? Doesn't look like anyone's home here."
---
Seki:
> Sigh.
> "Fiiiiine, I'll go with."
Aya:
> It does seem like she is.
> "She's probably inside. I suppose the incident isn't being too kind to her. Perhaps she doesn't want company."
Seki:
> "I'm more upset at you putting yourself down like that." Kagerou crosses her arms.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Mmm...I wanted to check on her precisely because I was worried about her, but if she doesn't want any company..."
---
Seki:
> "I don't see it as putting myself down, though? In the grand scheme of Gensokyo, I'm not very important, and frankly I prefer it that way."
-
Aya:
> "Mmm...I wanted to check on her precisely because I was worried about her, but if she doesn't want any company..."
---
Seki:
> "I don't see it as putting myself down, though? In the grand scheme of Gensokyo, I'm not very important, and frankly I prefer it that way."
Aya:
> "That's only my guess. It could surely be incorrect."
Seki:
> "Gensokyo's supposed to be a place for the fantastic things that don't have a place outside, right? If we aren't important in that sense, who would be?"
> "Yeah, I feel like we should propose that we include the people that need Gensokyo, not just the people that make a big impact on it."
> Kagerou nods in agreement, carrying Waka out of the cart.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I don't suppose you'd be willing to get me inside?"
---
Seki:
> Put our carriage away, or whatever it is we do to make it not be a place anymore.
> Then follow that fishwolf.
-
Aya:
> "I don't suppose you'd be willing to get me inside?"
---
Seki:
> Put our carriage away, or whatever it is we do to make it not be a place anymore.
> Then follow that fishwolf.
Aya:
> "Given the rest of the village around here doesn't seem troubled, I find it hard to believe she's in a worrisome position. Unless Akyuu herself is hiding it. You might bring more trouble barging in uninvited. Unless you have some way to be even more discreet."
Seki:
> You don't think you have a way to do so...
> You follow along, to the rest of the group.
> "Excuse me." Kagerou speaks. "Can I suggest something?"
> "Hm? Got a way to get everyone informed?" Marisa questions.
> "No."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Fair enough. I'll leave her be. Thanks."
> Take flight and zip back to the Shining Needle Castle.
---
Seki:
> Find a relatively shady corner where we can brood out of the way without people paying attention to us, and then stand in it while watching the proceedings.
-
Aya:
> "Fair enough. I'll leave her be. Thanks."
> Take flight and zip back to the Shining Needle Castle.
---
Seki:
> Find a relatively shady corner where we can brood out of the way without people paying attention to us, and then stand in it while watching the proceedings.
Aya:
> "Maybe your curiosity can be settled another time."
> You start for the castle in the sky... hopefully it's not somehow trapped again.
Seki:
> This place is huge, but we'll lit. Best you can do is just be out of sight from the rest of the group. Though it makes hearing a bit tricky. You can tell they're not pouncing on Kagerou for the idea at least...
>_
-
Aya:
> Pull Ami's head out.
> "Hey."
Ami:
> "Oh. What's up, Miss Aya?"
Aya:
> "So here's the deal. Everything we did earlier is probably the most you and I can do as we are. There's definitely space to go further, but I wouldn't be able to get into it without breaking something. So unless one or both of us suddenly becomes very flexible or malleable, you'd need to get someone smaller or more flexible than me if you want to go any further."
Ami:
> Do we know anyone like that?
---
Seki:
> Ugh...
> ...Let's stand near Kagerou, then, to show support.
-
Aya:
> Pull Ami's head out.
> "Hey."
Ami:
> "Oh. What's up, Miss Aya?"
Aya:
> "So here's the deal. Everything we did earlier is probably the most you and I can do as we are. There's definitely space to go further, but I wouldn't be able to get into it without breaking something. So unless one or both of us suddenly becomes very flexible or malleable, you'd need to get someone smaller or more flexible than me if you want to go any further."
Ami:
> Do we know anyone like that?
---
Seki:
> Ugh...
> ...Let's stand near Kagerou, then, to show support.
Ami:
> You don't think you know anyone willing that won't screw up. Unless you just missed the chance to ask those sisters in the underground.
Aya:
> You can see the castle in the distance. Nothing stands out yet. Except maybe a few figures visible on the castle?
Seki:
> You settle for lingering beside Kagerou.
> "But so far, there hasn't been any sign that the youkai are in danger from these changes." Reimu comments.
> "That's true. Even Aunn has recovered well from the state she was in before." Okina Matara adds. "Though I wonder who is to blame for that in the first place, I didn't get to check on her until recently..."
> "Wait, check on her? I thought you were st-"
> "Shh!" Okina interrupts Chimata Tenkyuu. "I found a way to at least do that."
> "Fairies are still able to return as well." Daiyousei chimes. "Though I did hear something interesting.
> "What, about fairies? I don't think it matters much if it's-"
> "There seemed to be something going on at the mountain. Like fairies vanishing, or people appearing out of nowhere."
> "Okay... that means there's no guarantee that the youkai who need Gensokyo won't be fine if this continues. I guess that leans us towards a decision in favor of stopping this."
> "We should figure out why that's happening though." Alice speaks.
> "Well, Gensokyo and the moon are becoming less fantastic and more real, according to some. No idea why or if anyone is causing this specifically, but at least, that's likely what's happening."
> "The answer to stop it would probably be to reinforce the barrier then, right? Keep Gensokyo a fantasy, like it should be, not a real place people can go to."
> They're really going on and on...
>_
-
Ami:
> Frown a bit.
> "Alright. I'll just let it go, then. Thank you for your help."
Aya:
> Aim for those figures specifically.
> "You sure?"
Ami:
> Nod.
> "Yes. I will simply find something else unique about myself. ...One that doesn't get me funny looks when I talk to people about it."
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> "Hey, I resemble that remark."
Ami:
> "No offense meant, Miss Aya. Honestly, I admire your willingness to indulge yourself without caring what other people think. I wish I had that kind of self-confidence..."
Aya:
> Ruffle Ami's hair lightly.
> "Oh, don't you worry your pretty little head about that. You just keep being you. I like you better that way."
---
Seki:
> Did we meet any real people in our travels today?
-
Ami:
> Frown a bit.
> "Alright. I'll just let it go, then. Thank you for your help."
Aya:
> Aim for those figures specifically.
> "You sure?"
Ami:
> Nod.
> "Yes. I will simply find something else unique about myself. ...One that doesn't get me funny looks when I talk to people about it."
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> "Hey, I resemble that remark."
Ami:
> "No offense meant, Miss Aya. Honestly, I admire your willingness to indulge yourself without caring what other people think. I wish I had that kind of self-confidence..."
Aya:
> Ruffle Ami's hair lightly.
> "Oh, don't you worry your pretty little head about that. You just keep being you. I like you better that way."
---
Seki:
> Did we meet any real people in our travels today?
Aya:
> You approach. It seems like Seija and her entourage. The three fairies of light and Tenshi are present.
> "I guess you have a point..." Tenshi speaks.
> "Good, then we'll see you at the lake." Sunny nods.
> "Where to next?"
> "Uhh... well, there's no important people in Heaven... ah, the Netherworld!"
> "Can we even get there?" Luna questions.
Seki:
> If Real as in people from the outside world, you don't believe so.
>_
-
Aya:
> Gently shove Ami back down.
> "Youmu's already arrived. Any of you seen Utsuho lately?"
---
Seki:
> This seems all way over our head...let's let this conversation play itself out to a conclusion and just go with whatever that happens to be.
-
Aya:
> Gently shove Ami back down.
> "Youmu's already arrived. Any of you seen Utsuho lately?"
---
Seki:
> This seems all way over our head...let's let this conversation play itself out to a conclusion and just go with whatever that happens to be.
Aya:
> "What about the ghost lady?" Sunny questions.
> "If you mean one of the birds, they both went off somewhere." Tenshi shrugs.
Seki:
> You just listen in...
> "Surely we have the means to do that."
> "Yeah yeah..." Reimu sighs.
> "Ah, hey, has anything like this happened to Makai?" Alice questions.
> "No, nothing of the sort." Shinki replies.
> "Hell has been plenty busy with other problems meanwhile." Hecatia adds.
> "Which makes you a bit suspicious." Reimu glances over at Shinki.
> "Now now, what would I gain from messing with Gensokyo? Wasn't it already the consensus that whatever's happening could just be natural?"
> "...What if it's someone from the outside world doing this? It's not unheard of for them to be the main problem causer." Marisa suggests.
> "Like Sumireko, huh? Come to think of it, I haven't seen her around recently, either."
> "Could she do something like this?" Youmu asks.
> "Surely with outside help."
> "Would she want to though?"
> There's a moment of thought...
> "To make it easier for her to get in and out of Gensokyo?" Marisa proposes.
>_
-
Aya:
> To Sunny: "I'd be surprised if Youmu didn't tell her anything. It wouldn't be a bad idea to double-check, though, if that's what you're thinking of doing."
> To Tenshi: "Do you remember which direction? And where'd your dancer mom go?"
---
Seki:
> Have we seen Sumi around today?
Sekihead Inside Aya:
> Try wiggling about to see if we can get that crow tengu's attention.
-
Aya:
> To Sunny: "I'd be surprised if Youmu didn't tell her anything. It wouldn't be a bad idea to double-check, though, if that's what you're thinking of doing."
> To Tenshi: "Do you remember which direction? And where'd your dancer mom go?"
---
Seki:
> Have we seen Sumi around today?
Sekihead Inside Aya:
> Try wiggling about to see if we can get that crow tengu's attention.
Aya:
> "If you mean Iku, she's inside." Tenshi gestures with a small nod of her head down. "And I can't say I did."
> "Do you know the way there?" Star questions.
Seki:
> You haven't seen anyone by that name today nor yesterday.
> You try... not sure if it's doing anything, but she hasn't pulled you out yet, so...
>_
-
Aya:
> To Tenshi: "Thanks."
> Try using the winds to locate Iku. If we can find her, give her a wind order to come find us if she's not busy.
> Then give the Sanyousei verbal directions to Hakugyokurou.
> Can we feel anything in our chest moving? If so, pull it out.
-
Aya:
> To Tenshi: "Thanks."
> Try using the winds to locate Iku. If we can find her, give her a wind order to come find us if she's not busy.
> Then give the Sanyousei verbal directions to Hakugyokurou.
> Can we feel anything in our chest moving? If so, pull it out.
Aya:
> You don't find anyone nearby inside the castle, at least. Probably further.
> You give instructions to the three fairies on how to reach the netherworld, and they all fly off together.
> You don't notice anything...
>_
-
Aya:
> Wave after the Sanyousei. "Safe travels! And tell Yuyuko to go to the Human Village!"
> Look back to the others still gathered.
> "If anyone here wants to join that grand meeting about Gensokyo's future, it's moved to Lady Matara's realm."
> Turn around to show off the door on our back.
> "You can hop in here for expediency. If you don't want anything to do with me, though, you can also get there through Suzunaan in the Human Village."
> Use the winds to feel for people further into the castle. In addition to Iku, hopefully we can find Yatsuhashi in particular.
---
Seki:
> Frown.
> "I can't get that tengu's attention to ask her about this person."
-
Aya:
> Wave after the Sanyousei. "Safe travels! And tell Yuyuko to go to the Human Village!"
> Look back to the others still gathered.
> "If anyone here wants to join that grand meeting about Gensokyo's future, it's moved to Lady Matara's realm."
> Turn around to show off the door on our back.
> "You can hop in here for expediency. If you don't want anything to do with me, though, you can also get there through Suzunaan in the Human Village."
> Use the winds to feel for people further into the castle. In addition to Iku, hopefully we can find Yatsuhashi in particular.
---
Seki:
> Frown.
> "I can't get that tengu's attention to ask her about this person."
Aya:
> "A who's realm? Ah whatever. Give us a moment to get everyone ready. We're still looking for Sumireko." Seija speaks.
> You search further...
> And do find a group deeper in the castle.
Seki:
> "Have you tried the backdoor?" Okina gestures to another door. Not too distant, at least.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Sure. In that case, be right back."
> Zoom off to the group we located.
Ami:
> How is it in here? Same as always?
Megumu:
> Are we conscious? If yes, where are we?
---
Seki:
> "Oh, uh, not yet."
> Walk over to the indicated door.
-
Aya:
> "Sure. In that case, be right back."
> Zoom off to the group we located.
Ami:
> How is it in here? Same as always?
Megumu:
> Are we conscious? If yes, where are we?
---
Seki:
> "Oh, uh, not yet."
> Walk over to the indicated door.
Aya:
> You dart off into the castle.
Ami:
> Still nothingness, you'd call it.
Seki:
> You head over.
> It looks closed. You don't see any locking mechanisms on it.
>_
-
Aya:
> As we travel, pull out Boss's head, to see if she's awake or still out cold.
> If she's still out cold, put her back in.
Ami:
> Try swinging our staff around experimentally.
---
Seki:
> Open the door.
-
Aya:
> As we travel, pull out Boss's head, to see if she's awake or still out cold.
> If she's still out cold, put her back in.
Ami:
> Try swinging our staff around experimentally.
---
Seki:
> Open the door.
Aya:
> You pull Megumu out.
> She looks like she's enjoying her sleep. Thus, you return her.
Ami:
> You don't feel like you've got your hands on anything, nor can you reach such.
Seki:
> You open the door, finding yourself falling th-
> ...Nearly falling through. It seems to be a hallway.
> "Careful now." Sakuya says, holding onto you and having prevented the fall. Though you appear a bit further away from the door. "It doesn't seem like these doors are meant for just peeking through."
> "They'd probably be windows if they were." Someone else comments.
>_
-
Aya:
> ...Pull Boss out again a little further.
> Give her a gentle kiss on the lips.
> Then put her back in and continue our pursuit of Iku, Yatsuhashi, or whomever else we come across.
Ami:
> Try putting our hand in our mouth.
---
Seki:
> "Ah, thanks."
> Call out into the hallway: "Hello?"
-
Aya:
> ...Pull Boss out again a little further.
> Give her a gentle kiss on the lips.
> Then put her back in and continue our pursuit of Iku, Yatsuhashi, or whomever else we come across.
Ami:
> Try putting our hand in our mouth.
---
Seki:
> "Ah, thanks."
> Call out into the hallway: "Hello?"
Seki:
> You call out... You can hear a conversation going on.
Aya:
> You slow down and give Megumu a brief peck, before storing her back in before you reach the group.
> The Tsukumogami are present, alongside Iku, and the other Yukari and her friend. And Sumireko? Though, she's asleep.
> "Their music probably isn't too safe to try and be used to wake someone." Raiko explains.
> "Hm... Maybe a shock, then?"
> "Can't we just get some water and splash it on her face instead of resorting to supernatural abilities?" Iku questions.
> Ah, Seki also appears to be behind you. Or, maybe just in that backdoor.
Ami:
> You don't feel anything. Though, you don't taste your finger or anything either, just your mouth like usual. Maybe that means you didn't move?
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, hey everyone. Seija said you folks were still looking for Sumireko."
> Gesture to the sleeping human.
> "Something happen to her?"
Seki:
> Light up.
> "Hey! Did you say 'Sumireko'? The grand meeting folks are looking for her too! They think she might be related to what's happened to Gensokyo!"
> Turn to Sakuya: "I think the tengu found her."
Aya:
> Raise an eyebrow.
> Pull the Seki head out of our chest.
> "And what makes them say that?"
Seki Head:
> "They thought it might be someone from the Outside World messing with Gensokyo for some reason, and she was the first person they thought of. Then they realized none of them had seen her for a while."
---
Ami:
> Can we at least feel our hands and feet? Try wiggling our fingers and toes to see if we get some sort of sensation.
-
Aya:
> "Oh, hey everyone. Seija said you folks were still looking for Sumireko."
> Gesture to the sleeping human.
> "Something happen to her?"
Seki:
> Light up.
> "Hey! Did you say 'Sumireko'? The grand meeting folks are looking for her too! They think she might be related to what's happened to Gensokyo!"
> Turn to Sakuya: "I think the tengu found her."
Aya:
> Raise an eyebrow.
> Pull the Seki head out of our chest.
> "And what makes them say that?"
Seki Head:
> "They thought it might be someone from the Outside World messing with Gensokyo for some reason, and she was the first person they thought of. Then they realized none of them had seen her for a while."
---
Ami:
> Can we at least feel our hands and feet? Try wiggling our fingers and toes to see if we get some sort of sensation.
Aya:
> "Yeah, this is her. She's asleep though."
Seki:
> "Well, that was fast. Well done, Sekibanki." Remilia compliments.
> "We shouldn't be hasty. Maybe she's a victim too."
Ami:
> Nothing... You're not sure if balling up your fist gives any reaction either.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Hmm, they're saying she's asleep..."
Aya:
> "And you're trying to wake her? Or is there more to this than what's immediately obvious?"
> Send a wind whisper to Iku's ear only: "Don't respond out loud to this, dear. I want to see you in private as soon as this is resolved."
> Send a wind whisper to Yatsuhashi's ear only: "Don't respond out loud to this, dear. I want to see you in private as soon as this is resolved."
---
Ami:
> Try an extended inhale.
-
Seki:
> "Hmm, they're saying she's asleep..."
Aya:
> "And you're trying to wake her? Or is there more to this than what's immediately obvious?"
> Send a wind whisper to Iku's ear only: "Don't respond out loud to this, dear. I want to see you in private as soon as this is resolved."
> Send a wind whisper to Yatsuhashi's ear only: "Don't respond out loud to this, dear. I want to see you in private as soon as this is resolved."
---
Ami:
> Try an extended inhale.
Aya:
> "Yeah. She won't wake."
> "Excuse me?" Benben questions.
> "What?" Raiko questions.
> Benben shakes her head.
> "Nothing."
Seki:
> "We'll simply have to wait then." Sakuya states."
Ami:
> ...
> No dice?
>_
-
Aya:
> Did Iku seem to react at all?
> Give Benben a curious look, then turn back to Sumireko.
> "Should we take her to the meeting, then? Maybe the doctor will know something."
-
Aya:
> Did Iku seem to react at all?
> Give Benben a curious look, then turn back to Sumireko.
> "Should we take her to the meeting, then? Maybe the doctor will know something."
Aya:
> Not that you noticed.
> "Doctor? Ah, sure, then."
>_
-
Aya:
> Nod.
> "She should probably be brought to Seija first, for her peace of mine if nothing else. I can carry her around if you need it, but I assume you were already moving her around your own way."
-
Aya:
> Nod.
> "She should probably be brought to Seija first, for her peace of mine if nothing else. I can carry her around if you need it, but I assume you were already moving her around your own way."
Aya:
> "She'll probably feel best with us, I feel like." The lookalike says. "Given were the actual humans here."
>_
-
Aya:
> "You're the boss."
-
Aya:
> "You're the boss."
Aya:
> "So where is this doctor?"
> You notice the humans flicker away. Not quite vanish, but there was quick movement.
Seki:
> Sakuya seems to have brought them here.
> "Ah. When did we?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Point at the door on our back.
> "In there. And I promise this isn't just me being me. This is Lady Matara's work."
Seki:
> Blink.
> "...Hi?"
-
Aya:
> Point at the door on our back.
> "In there. And I promise this isn't just me being me. This is Lady Matara's work."
Seki:
> Blink.
> "...Hi?"
Aya:
> They're already gone.
Seki:
> "Uh huh... hi." The blonde waves.
>_
-
Aya:
> "...I'm just going to assume that was intentional and that they're where they need to be."
> Look to Benben.
> "What was that about earlier, anyway?"
---
Seki:
> Return the wave.
-
Aya:
> "...I'm just going to assume that was intentional and that they're where they need to be."
> Look to Benben.
> "What was that about earlier, anyway?"
---
Seki:
> Return the wave.
Aya:
> "Nothing nothing. We've gotta go meet up with Kogasa." Benben takes her sisters hand, heading away. "Later."
> "Huh? I thought that was- ah, I guess that Sumireko problem is settled..." Raiko starts to follow.
Seki:
> "So what's up with her?" Marisa questions.
> "She doesn't seem sick or anything..." Reisen comments.
>_
>_
-
Seki:
> "It sounds like they can't wake her."
Aya:
> If we can hear the discussion in BackdoorLand: "They tried a bunch of things, to no avail."
> Keep track of the tsukumogami travels via the wind. Did our message to Yatsuhashi get redirected to Benben somehow?
> Look to Iku.
> "...Well, I suppose this works out for me, in a way."
-
Seki:
> "It sounds like they can't wake her."
Aya:
> If we can hear the discussion in BackdoorLand: "They tried a bunch of things, to no avail."
> Keep track of the tsukumogami travels via the wind. Did our message to Yatsuhashi get redirected to Benben somehow?
> Look to Iku.
> "...Well, I suppose this works out for me, in a way."
Seki:
> "We should find Doremy then." Reisen says."
> "That sounds easier said than done."
> "You forget, we have an expert trackee." Remilia boasts
> "She's probably in the dream world. It'll be harder to just find her unless she's in Gensokyo right now." Reisen comments.
Aya:
> "What is it?" Iku questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Nothing super important. I was simply wondering slash hoping if you'd be willing to join me for a while."
-
Aya:
> "Nothing super important. I was simply wondering slash hoping if you'd be willing to join me for a while."
Aya:
> "I'm already accompanying the Eldest Daughter. We do have our own situations to get through, and I believe she realized such when she left. You don't have to worry about us, though. Just continue your focus."
>_
-
Aya:
> "I'd be perfectly happy to bring you both with me, Lady Nagae. And, to be clear, I ask because I genuinely desire your company. No more, no less."
-
Aya:
> "I'd be perfectly happy to bring you both with me, Lady Nagae. And, to be clear, I ask because I genuinely desire your company. No more, no less."
Aya:
> "I'm sorry for having to decline, then." Iku lowers her head a bit.
>_
-
Aya:
> Look a bit sad.
> "Ah. I'm sorry for putting you in a difficult position."
> Give Iku a hug, at least (squishing her into our chest).
-
Aya:
> Look a bit sad.
> "Ah. I'm sorry for putting you in a difficult position."
> Give Iku a hug, at least (squishing her into our chest).
Aya:
> Iku returns the hug.
> "Good luck with your troubles." She separates.
>_
-
Aya:
> "You as well."
> Based on the wind, where have the tsukumogami gone?
-
Aya:
> "You as well."
> Based on the wind, where have the tsukumogami gone?
Aya:
> To another deeper room.
>_
-
Aya:
> Well, we were productive here, but socially this was a bust. How irritating...
> Head back to Seija.
-
Aya:
> Well, we were productive here, but socially this was a bust. How irritating...
> Head back to Seija.
Aya:
> You start back outside, passing by Tenshi on the way back.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, hey. Iku's back that way."
> Gesture the way we came.
> "I wanted both of your companies for my travels, but from what she said, it sounds like you're both busy."
-
Aya:
> "Oh, hey. Iku's back that way."
> Gesture the way we came.
> "I wanted both of your companies for my travels, but from what she said, it sounds like you're both busy."
Aya:
> "Yeah, it's this annoying business with heaven an me being called an angel of god and such. It's whatever." Tenshi continues on.
._
-
Aya:
> "Huh. Alright then, hope it isn't too inconvenient for you. Let me know if you need any help."
> Unless Tenshi stops us, continue heading back to Seija.
-
Aya:
> "Huh. Alright then, hope it isn't too inconvenient for you. Let me know if you need any help."
> Unless Tenshi stops us, continue heading back to Seija.
Aya:
> "Hm." Tenshi doesn't stop.
> You return to Seija's group.
> "Did you get what you wanted there?" Seija questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Not what I wanted, but what I was going to get. The tsukumogami group found Sumireko, though. Apparently she's asleep and won't wake up. She and the other Outside humans have been taken to the land of the backdoors, where just about everyone else is."
---
Seki:
> Is the human still unconscious?
> Has anyone had any new ideas?
-
Aya:
> "Not what I wanted, but what I was going to get. The tsukumogami group found Sumireko, though. Apparently she's asleep and won't wake up. She and the other Outside humans have been taken to the land of the backdoors, where just about everyone else is."
---
Seki:
> Is the human still unconscious?
> Has anyone had any new ideas?
Aya:
> "Shall we get heading there, then?" Seija speaks. "Maybe we should call up Raiko to, too, though."
Seki:
> Yes.
> No. They've mostly been thinking how she got like this instead.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Sure, if you want. The three of them went off somewhere with a purpose, though I'm not sure why. We can try to chase after them if you like."
---
Seki:
> "Hey, so, um...how...allowed are youkai to try to do things to this human to possibly help?"
-
Aya:
> "Sure, if you want. The three of them went off somewhere with a purpose, though I'm not sure why. We can try to chase after them if you like."
---
Seki:
> "Hey, so, um...how...allowed are youkai to try to do things to this human to possibly help?"
Aya:
> "Shouldn't they speak for the Tsukumogami? Or maybe that Kogasa girl."
Seki:
> You can immediately feel Reimu's frown...
> "Ahem, she's been handled by some youkai before." Marisa comments, breaking Reimu's gaze. "So she should be pretty tough."
> "Why don't you just go to sleep and look for this Doremy? Combine both of those things?" Remilia questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> "We can certainly ask them if they want to. They might pick someone to do so, or they might defer to Mom and trust she has their best interests at heart."
> Give Seija a wink and a grin. then offer her a hand.
> "Come on, let's go find them."
---
Seki:
> Was that sleeping suggestion directed at us?
> If so: "Uh...I could try? I don't know anything about this Doremy though."
-
Aya:
> "We can certainly ask them if they want to. They might pick someone to do so, or they might defer to Mom and trust she has their best interests at heart."
> Give Seija a wink and a grin. then offer her a hand.
> "Come on, let's go find them."
---
Seki:
> Was that sleeping suggestion directed at us?
> If so: "Uh...I could try? I don't know anything about this Doremy though."
Seija:
> "I'm not anyone's mom." She sighs, annoyed, though you think she feels a bit otherwise. "I'm sure you don't need us to find them."
Seki:
> You believe so.
> "She's a baku. Looks..."
> "Can't you just find people with your abilities?" Patchouli asks.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Probably not, but traveling in a group is more enjoyable. Plus you can all go to Lady Matara's realm at once if you come with."
---
Seki:
> "I can locate if I have her full name. Getting to her is trickier."
-
Aya:
> "Probably not, but traveling in a group is more enjoyable. Plus you can all go to Lady Matara's realm at once if you come with."
---
Seki:
> "I can locate if I have her full name. Getting to her is trickier."
Aya:
> "And we can't just go there now?"
Seki:
> "Doremy Sweet, I think." Reisen says.
>_
-
Aya:
> Retract our hand and turn so our back is facing Seija.
> "If you'd rather do that, just head on in there."
---
Seki:
> With the intention of locating her, state the name "Doremy Sweet" out loud.
-
Aya:
> Retract our hand and turn so our back is facing Seija.
> "If you'd rather do that, just head on in there."
---
Seki:
> With the intention of locating her, state the name "Doremy Sweet" out loud.
Aya:
> You turn, and it seems like she takes up that option.
Seki:
> You call out Doremy's name...
> ...
> Nothing seems to happen? No indication on where she might be...
> Ah, there is-
> Gone again...
> But then back, elsewhere?
>_
-
Aya:
> "Aww..."
> Fly back in the direction we remember the tsukumogami going, in pursuit of them. Use wind tracking to locate them.
---
Seki:
> Frown in confusion.
> "What the...?"
-
Aya:
> "Aww..."
> Fly back in the direction we remember the tsukumogami going, in pursuit of them. Use wind tracking to locate them.
---
Seki:
> Frown in confusion.
> "What the...?"
Aya:
> You head for the group again, finding them starting for the edge of the castle.
> You manage to catch up. And it seems all the instruments are here still. Iku and Tenshi too.
> "We barely moved. What's up?" Raiko questions.
Seki:
> "What happened?" Patchouli questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Seija mused on the idea of one of you speaking on behalf of tsukumogami."
---
Seki:
> "One moment, I can tell where she is. The next, gone. Back and forth..."
-
Aya:
> "Seija mused on the idea of one of you speaking on behalf of tsukumogami."
---
Seki:
> "One moment, I can tell where she is. The next, gone. Back and forth..."
Aya:
> "Hm... Well we're only instruments. The other kinds of tools wouldn't get much representation with us..." Raiko considers.
Seki:
> "She's probably heading back and forth between the dream world and somewhere else, then." Reisen says. "Maybe she's busy."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Is there someone else you think might be a better pick?"
---
Seki:
> "...I don't think I'd be able to get to her, if that's the case."
-
Aya:
> "Is there someone else you think might be a better pick?"
---
Seki:
> "...I don't think I'd be able to get to her, if that's the case."
Aya:
> "That umbrella girl maybe. If anyone we know. She's dependable."
Seki:
> "We got here pretty fast. You might be able to chase her down." Remilia considers.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Well, if that's what you want..."
---
Seki:
> "At the rate she's blinking in and out? I don't know..."
-
Aya:
> "Well, if that's what you want..."
---
Seki:
> "At the rate she's blinking in and out? I don't know..."
Aya:
> "Well, we were on our way to look for her."
Seki:
> "Have you tried it?" Sakuya questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Ah. Any leads?"
---
Seki:
> Look really uncomfortable.
> "...No..."
-
Aya:
> "Ah. Any leads?"
---
Seki:
> Look really uncomfortable.
> "...No..."
Aya:
> "Probably with Sanae at the shrine, helping her with her equipment. That's my guess at least."
Seki:
> "Then why not give it a try?" Flan asks, expectant.
>_
-
Aya:
> Flash a thumbs-up.
> Then zoom out of the castle and to the Moriya Shrine.
---
Seki:
> Sigh.
> "Because I really don't want to run around fruitlessly looking like an idiot. But I'll do it if that's what people are expecting."
> Head back out of this land to where our carraige is stationed.
-
Aya:
> Flash a thumbs-up.
> Then zoom out of the castle and to the Moriya Shrine.
---
Seki:
> Sigh.
> "Because I really don't want to run around fruitlessly looking like an idiot. But I'll do it if that's what people are expecting."
> Head back out of this land to where our carraige is stationed.
Aya:
> You speed off for the mountain and the shrine.
Seki:
> "You'll be fine." Flandre assures.
> You head our and return to your carriage.
>_
-
Seki:
> Begin more or less chanting Doremy's full name, so that her current location keeps pinging us.
> Then set off in pursuit of that location.
-
Seki:
> Begin more or less chanting Doremy's full name, so that her current location keeps pinging us.
> Then set off in pursuit of that location.
Seki:
> You call for Doremy and head off on your carriage for-
> "Ah?"
> Your steeds hardly get to travel anywhere far before you already come face to face with her.
> You are in some different... area, than the store front at least.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Huh???"
> Stop, quickly!
-
Seki:
> "Huh???"
> Stop, quickly!
Seki:
> You stop, right beside her.
> "Hah, what now?" She questions.
Aya:
> You... arrive at the shrine? The surroundings seem off...
>_
-
Aya:
> Have a concerned look around. Can we tell what's different?
Seki:
> "Uh...There's a human named Sumireko that won't wake up from her sleep. People want to know if you can help."
-
Aya:
> Have a concerned look around. Can we tell what's different?
Seki:
> "Uh...There's a human named Sumireko that won't wake up from her sleep. People want to know if you can help."
Aya:
> There's more forest than you last recall around here. Not only that, but you think you see stairs moving nearby.
Seki:
> "Oh? Sumireko? Well that's a breath of fresh air. Thanks." The woman waves briefly, before she quickly fades away.
>_
-
Aya:
> Can we still reach the front of our chest?
> Frown.
> "Sanae?"
> Head inside the shrine.
---
Seki:
> "...uh..."
-
Aya:
> Can we still reach the front of our chest?
> Frown.
> "Sanae?"
> Head inside the shrine.
---
Seki:
> "...uh..."
Aya:
> The very? Not since Boss, you believe.
> You head inside.
> "Ah?" You hear Kogasa, as she sits in the main room. "Aya? What are you- er, when did you..." She glances just a tad down. "No, you're looking for Sanae, right?"
Seki:
> You blink...
> Before your arm is suddenly grabbed, and you feel yourself fall.
> "Right, shouldn't leave you behind." You hear Doremy, before your footing is already recovered.
> "-as I knew she would." you hear Remilia.
> It seems like you're back in that backdoor place already.
> "Thank you for going back to get her." Sakuya speaks.
> "Yeah yeah, okay, now back to miss Usami." Doremy treads over.
> "Huh?" Renko questions.
> "The one asleep, dummy." Maribel gives a light bonk.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Looking for anyone, really. Though I am looking for you in particular, as it turns out. You can look, it's fine."
---
Seki:
> Blink while looking around.
> "...wha..."
-
Aya:
> "Looking for anyone, really. Though I am looking for you in particular, as it turns out. You can look, it's fine."
---
Seki:
> Blink while looking around.
> "...wha..."
Aya:
> "What happened? Ah, don't tell me you got lost in the outside world and were looking for one of us?"
Seki:
> "Hm... This could be quick, or take a bit. Well, here goes." Doremy speaks, before fading away again.
> "Good job Seki!" Flan cheers.
> "That was... really quick." Kagerou comments.
> "Well, it's a good thing no one had to throw any other attempts that could've hurt her." Mokou speaks.
> "Where did you find her? Did you have to chase her down?" Wakasagihime asks.
>_
-
Aya:
> "No, I'm fine. 'What happened' could have any number of answers, depending on how much you already know. I myself am curious why the surroundings are so different here."
> Gesture the top of our chest.
> "Want a comfy seat so we can walk and talk?"
---
Seki:
> "...I...I don't know..."
-
Aya:
> "No, I'm fine. 'What happened' could have any number of answers, depending on how much you already know. I myself am curious why the surroundings are so different here."
> Gesture the top of our chest.
> "Want a comfy seat so we can walk and talk?"
---
Seki:
> "...I...I don't know..."
Aya:
> Kogasa thinks for a moment.
> "I should... Oh what the heck, sure." Kogasa stands up. "I don't know what's been going on exactly, but I think we're connected to the outside world more. Sanae's out there with her goddess doing things."
Seki:
> "Hm. Did you see something troubling there?" Kagerou asks.
>_
-
Aya:
> Gently lift Kogasa and place her so she's seated on our chest with her legs dangling into where we could store her.
> "There you go. And yeah, I'd absolutely believe there's some sort of furthered merger with the Outside World going on, based on what I've come to understand."
---
Seki:
> Shake our head rapidly, as if trying to come to our sense.
> "No. I just...I have no idea how any of that happened, or how any of it worked."
-
Aya:
> Gently lift Kogasa and place her so she's seated on our chest with her legs dangling into where we could store her.
> "There you go. And yeah, I'd absolutely believe there's some sort of furthered merger with the Outside World going on, based on what I've come to understand."
---
Seki:
> Shake our head rapidly, as if trying to come to our sense.
> "No. I just...I have no idea how any of that happened, or how any of it worked."
Aya:
> You pick up the umbrella girl and set her down on your chest.
> "Any idea why it's happening?" Kogasa questions.
Seki:
> "Doremy is the master of dreams. She can move freely in the Dream World, and I suppose she's able to get to the other worlds through dreams, too?" Reisen hypothesizes. "Though what made her so interested in helping?"
> "This girl's an interesting case with her dreams and such." Doremy speaks. "Anyways, she should be waking up now."
> True to her words, Sumireko starts to stir and sit up.
>_
-
Aya:
> Begin heading back outside.
> "Sadly, no, only that it's causing a lot of problems and Gensokyo's movers and shakers are mulling over whether to adapt or try to revert it. Speaking of, I've spoken to a few tsukumogami about the matter, and they all wanted you to speak of the general behalf of Gensokyo's tsukumogami population, if you're up for that."
> Try giving Kogasa a wind order to place a hand on the top of our chest and give it a small gentle squeeze.
> Call to behind us: "Hey, Reimu, you listening?"
---
Seki:
> "Ah. Well, whatever happened, I'm glad it all worked."
-
Aya:
> Begin heading back outside.
> "Sadly, no, only that it's causing a lot of problems and Gensokyo's movers and shakers are mulling over whether to adapt or try to revert it. Speaking of, I've spoken to a few tsukumogami about the matter, and they all wanted you to speak of the general behalf of Gensokyo's tsukumogami population, if you're up for that."
> Try giving Kogasa a wind order to place a hand on the top of our chest and give it a small gentle squeeze.
> Call to behind us: "Hey, Reimu, you listening?"
---
Seki:
> "Ah. Well, whatever happened, I'm glad it all worked."
Aya:
> You start outside.
> "Huh? Me?" Kogasa questions, putting her hands up to her mouth. "I... guess I'm flattered?"
> You call.
> "Hm?" Kogasa looks over your shoulder. "You've got a door on your back. Is it locked? Do you store things in you there?"
Seki:
> "So, Sumireko, do you know what this incident is about?" Reimu asks.
> "Huh? Incident? Huh!? What's- why's so many people here? Where is this? Wait, who are you? Why do you have my hat..." Sumireko frowns, looking at Renko.
> "Have your... Uh, no, this is mine. Unless... Ooh, that'd be cool. I wanna experiment with that now!" Renko states.
> "We should probably save that for later..." Maribel comments.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Yeah, you. And no, I don't store stuff back there. If you want to see that, slide yourself forward and down."
> Gesture at our cleavage, where Kogasa's legs have been draped into.
---
Seki:
> Did we get these humans' family names?
> How similar do Renko and Sumireko look?
-
Aya:
> "Yeah, you. And no, I don't store stuff back there. If you want to see that, slide yourself forward and down."
> Gesture at our cleavage, where Kogasa's legs have been draped into.
---
Seki:
> Did we get these humans' family names?
> How similar do Renko and Sumireko look?
Aya:
> "Hm..." Kogasa pulls out her umbrella, and pokes it in.
Seki:
> Yes, you do know them.
> They look like they could be sisters. Twins, even.
>_
-
Aya:
> How are the environs looking?
> Chuckle a bit.
> "It's not dangerous, silly."
---
Seki:
> "...You know, you two sure look alike. And, come to think of it, don't you have the same family name?"
-
Aya:
> How are the environs looking?
> Chuckle a bit.
> "It's not dangerous, silly."
---
Seki:
> "...You know, you two sure look alike. And, come to think of it, don't you have the same family name?"
Aya:
> They still look strange.
> "What? I'm looking." Kogasa explains.
Seki:
> "Hm?" Renko questions.
> "Oh, she's right." Doremy speaks. "Why don't you introduce yourself to everyone here?"
> "Uh, alright. I'm Sumireko Usami. The Secret Sealing Club's First President."
> "Renko Usami, here." Renko responds. "So, that would make you my ancestor. And this probably is your hat. Maybe."
> "Ancestor? Uh... That's... worrying. You're not gonna vanish out of nowhere, are you?" Sumireko rubs her eye tiredly.
> "Probably not. I would have by this point, right?" Renko shrugs.
> "Cool."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, sorry. I forgot you could do that like that."
---
Seki:
> "...Are we dealing with time travel now?"
-
Aya:
> "Oh, sorry. I forgot you could do that like that."
---
Seki:
> "...Are we dealing with time travel now?"
Aya:
> "You forgot? I'm a tsukumogami, you know..." Kogasa seems, almost insulted?
Seki:
> "Maybe?" Renko states.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Isn't it better that you just surprised me by doing that, though?"
---
Seki:
> Sigh.
> "Well, at least it's something way over my head that no one can have expectations for me to be able to do anything about."
-
Aya:
> "Isn't it better that you just surprised me by doing that, though?"
---
Seki:
> Sigh.
> "Well, at least it's something way over my head that no one can have expectations for me to be able to do anything about."
Aya:
> "It doesn't feel much like a surprise." She looks aside, easily retrieving her umbrella.
Seki:
> "We have Sakuya for time travel." Remilia boasts. "So, shall we get back to the topic?"
> "What topic?" Sumireko questions.
> "We're still waiting on Aya, or the fairies, to return with more." Daiyousei adds.
>_
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> "Sorry."
---
Seki:
> Phew, time to relax, then.
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> "Sorry."
---
Seki:
> Phew, time to relax, then.
Aya:
> "Well, it's fine, I'm pretty forgettable, after all."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, I wouldn't say that. At least, not in a general social sense. In a stealthy hiding-from-others-to-surprise-them sense, sure. But the other tsukumogami clearly respect you, given they all wanted to defer decisions on tsukumogami matters to you. Sanae clearly likes you. The Human Village likes you. I like you. In fact, I imagine I'd be hard-pressed to find someone that doesn't like you. And, as an aside, if you and Sanae don't mind my saying so, you're pretty hot, which doesn't hurt."
-
Aya:
> "Oh, I wouldn't say that. At least, not in a general social sense. In a stealthy hiding-from-others-to-surprise-them sense, sure. But the other tsukumogami clearly respect you, given they all wanted to defer decisions on tsukumogami matters to you. Sanae clearly likes you. The Human Village likes you. I like you. In fact, I imagine I'd be hard-pressed to find someone that doesn't like you. And, as an aside, if you and Sanae don't mind my saying so, you're pretty hot, which doesn't hurt."
Aya:
> "U-Uh huh... let's get back to catching up to Sanae and the others." Kogasa tries to deter..
>_
-
Aya:
> Does she look embarrassed at all?
> Does she look uncomfortable at all?
> "Do you know which way she went?"
-
Aya:
> Does she look embarrassed at all?
> Does she look uncomfortable at all?
> "Do you know which way she went?"
> Maybe, a bit you think?
> You don't believe so. She even seems used to the seat.
> "Nope. Just that they're in the other world." Kogasa says.
> "I thought we said to wait inside?" You hear Sanae's voice, turning a bit to meet her approach.
>_
-
Aya:
> Look to where the voice came from.
> "Hey there. Don't blame her, this was my idea."
-
Aya:
> Look to where the voice came from.
> "Hey there. Don't blame her, this was my idea."
Aya:
> "Hm? Sanae questions. She looks... mostly the same. Though she's wearing a different outfit than her shrine maiden attire. "H-Hey, what are you doing with Kogasa?!"
> "This was also her idea, but I'm not held against my will." Kogasa scratches her head. "How is the investigation going?"
> "That can wait, let her go, bird woman!"
>_
-
Aya:
> Grin while patting the top of the other side of our chest.
> "You know what would be even better? If a cutie like you joined a cutie like her."
-
Aya:
> Grin while patting the top of the other side of our chest.
> "You know what would be even better? If a cutie like you joined a cutie like her."
Aya:
> "That definitely doesn't sound good. Kogasa-"
> "Hang on, no one do anything!" You... hear Sanae, again?
> To your confusion, another Sanae flies down to the three of you. This one in her shrine maiden fit, and noticeably different.
> To your further confusion, you have no idea why she's capable of flight without wings. You don't see any assistance.
> "A, a second Sanae? Does-"
> "I'll explain, but first, let's get inside the shrine." The... flying Sanae speaks.
> "She better not fly off with Kogasa." The different, but more familiar... no, the not flying one, crosses her arms.
> "She won't, she's a friend." The airborne one heads for the shrine.
>_
-
Aya:
> Which Sanae looks more like the one we're used to?
> Raise our eyebrows with a grin at Kogasa.
> "Two Sanaes! This is our lucky day."
> Look to the more suspicious Sanae.
> "Looking forward to getting to know the new you."
> Give her a wink, then follow the other Sanae inside.
-
Aya:
> Which Sanae looks more like the one we're used to?
> Raise our eyebrows with a grin at Kogasa.
> "Two Sanaes! This is our lucky day."
> Look to the more suspicious Sanae.
> "Looking forward to getting to know the new you."
> Give her a wink, then follow the other Sanae inside.
Aya:
> The flightless one.
> You follow into the shrine.
> Sanae sits down, followed by Sanae...
> "So. Aya, this is... Me." The flight capable Sanae gestures to the grounded one. "Me, this is Aya. She's a crow tengu and a reliable source of information, if you can find her, or she finds you."
> "Crow Tengu... That's another youkai, then?"
> "Mhm."
> "So it's not your twin sister?" Kogasa questions.
> "Okay, I'm still trying to get a good grasp on it, which is why the other me doesn't recognize Aya, but I think it's something to do with me being a god and a human at the same time. Probably also helped by my ability to perform miracles." Sanae explains.
> "Is it also helped by you being from outside Gensokyo?" Kogasa asks.
> "Maybe?" The other Sanae supposes.
> "Well there is something going on with Gensokyo and the outside world, so it could also be that. Anyways, it doesn't look like more of the mountain is turning into the outside world anymore. At least not up here."
> "Since that's not an immediate worry anymore, can you put Kogasa down already?" The other Sanae questions.
> "Probably for the best, Aya." The expository Sanae suggests. "It's not like I'm too happy seeing this sight either." She mumbles.
> "Alright. Sorry." Kogasa apologizes, as she starts to pull herself out.
>_
-
Aya:
> Frown, but do not make an effort to stop Kogasa.
> "I invited you to join her for a reason, you know. Hell, I'd love to have all three of you. It would let us travel by air at a good clip if I carried everyone, after all, so that we could walk and talk, so to speak."
-
Aya:
> Frown, but do not make an effort to stop Kogasa.
> "I invited you to join her for a reason, you know. Hell, I'd love to have all three of you. It would let us travel by air at a good clip if I carried everyone, after all, so that we could walk and talk, so to speak."
Aya:
> "I can fly myself, so I'd be fine."
> "How, exactly?" Kogasa questions. "I can only glide down and fall with style if there's enough wind."
> "When you think of a god, you think of an omnipotent being who can float and do all sorts of amazing things." The other Sanae explains. "So of course I, or we, maybe, can fly."
> "Is this a permanent thing? I like having two Sanaes." Kogasa smiles as she sits down on another side of the table.
> "Probably not in this way. I've gotta get more of this down, like I said earlier."
> "Does that mean your appearance will change more, too?" Kogasa keeps the questions coming.
> "Likely. I didn't look like this earlier, even after the flash thing and this started."
>_
-
Aya:
> Clothing aside, how different to the two Sanaes appear in body?
> Mentally label flying Sanae as God Sanae and grounded Sanae as Human Sanae, since that appears to be what's going on here.
> To God Sanae: "I realize you can fly, but it seems the other two can't."
> Grin with a wink.
> "And close proximity would let us have more fun with each other as we travel."
-
Aya:
> Clothing aside, how different to the two Sanaes appear in body?
> Mentally label flying Sanae as God Sanae and grounded Sanae as Human Sanae, since that appears to be what's going on here.
> To God Sanae: "I realize you can fly, but it seems the other two can't."
> Grin with a wink.
> "And close proximity would let us have more fun with each other as we travel."
Aya:
> The Godly Sanae looks like she's gotten boosted everywhere, to the point you'd reason she'd probably add it to the things she needs to work on. Her hair is even longer, and might be why she flew into the shrine instead of walked. It's floating up a bit, as if to keep it from dragging on the ground.
> If not for Human Sanae having a fair appearance on a scale, you'd be able to sell them as mother and daughter. Now, it just looks like Human Sanae has a Big sister.
> "I don't think I'd like your idea of fun." Human Sanae says, pushing the other's chest up in explanation: "This other me already has mountains of faith that'd make Kanako proud. I don't need yours in my face too."
> "It's not my fault. When people think of a goddess, they-"
> "Yes yes, like Kanako. But Suwako's a god too. Why didn't you end up-"
> "Minoriko Aki is a goddess as well." God Sanae argues. "She's always had melons."
> "But Shizuha-"
> "Exactly, Shizuha has a butt too, I think. Either it was sizeable, or it was toned, I don't recall. It's not like I see them from that sort of angle often."
> "Uh... Then Hina- no... That Hell Goddess? No... Okay, maybe there's reason, but still."
> "I know, I said I'm working on it. But yeah, I don't think we want to play around like that right now..."
> "I guess being someone who can make miracles, you seem to have trouble making things become lesser." Kogasa speaks.
>_
-
Aya:
> Give Human Sanae a sympathetic look.
> "Come on, now, don't compare yourself to other versions of yourself. I want you for you. You're still Sanae, and that's more than good enough for me."
> "Though, come to think of it, why do you remember all these other people but not me? It was only a few hours ago when I last talked to Hybrid Sanae."
-
Aya:
> Give Human Sanae a sympathetic look.
> "Come on, now, don't compare yourself to other versions of yourself. I want you for you. You're still Sanae, and that's more than good enough for me."
> "Though, come to think of it, why do you remember all these other people but not me? It was only a few hours ago when I last talked to Hybrid Sanae."
Aya:
> "Too much uh... pre-Gensokyo in there." She explains. "I called you bird person. I didn't even remember what Tengu were."
> "And you look pretty different from how you've looked most of my time in Gensokyo, too." God Sanae says. "Anyways, are you really here just for fun? There are other places to bug than here..."
> "She said she wanted me for something, and that the other Tsukumogami think it should be me, too, if I remember right." Kogasa explains.
>_
-
> "I came for Kogasa specifically and also whoever was here generally. Most other places have their folks concentrated in Lady Matara's dimension right now."
> Turn around to show off the door on our back, then turn back around to the front.
> "Gensokyo's various movers and shakers are getting together to discuss what they want the future of Gensokyo to be in the wake of everything that's happened. I imagine the Moriya Shrine will want to send a representative. The musical tsukumogami wanted Kogasa to represent Gensokyo's tsukumogami in general, since she has seniority and pretty much everyone's respect. So I came here guessing I'd be able to get both at once."
> "But this mountain-turning-into-the-outside-world thing and your split personality thing are also very investigation-worthy, so now I'm here for that too. Asking three lovely ladies if they want to have a fun time is simply a delightful bonus~"
-
> "I came for Kogasa specifically and also whoever was here generally. Most other places have their folks concentrated in Lady Matara's dimension right now."
> Turn around to show off the door on our back, then turn back around to the front.
> "Gensokyo's various movers and shakers are getting together to discuss what they want the future of Gensokyo to be in the wake of everything that's happened. I imagine the Moriya Shrine will want to send a representative. The musical tsukumogami wanted Kogasa to represent Gensokyo's tsukumogami in general, since she has seniority and pretty much everyone's respect. So I came here guessing I'd be able to get both at once."
> "But this mountain-turning-into-the-outside-world thing and your split personality thing are also very investigation-worthy, so now I'm here for that too. Asking three lovely ladies if they want to have a fun time is simply a delightful bonus~"
Aya:
> "Hm. We should probably join that first then." Human Sanae says.
> "Then we can go out and have a fun time or something." God Sanae says. "I'm sure you're tired of being business all today and yesterday. We'll accompany you and whoever else you're gathering, since you've got the way there. I also want to figure out these changes more."
> "I'd join, but I'd probably get in the way." Kogasa looks down. "I can't fly, and I wouldn't be much help in a fight."
> "Have you been in a fight since yesterday, yet?" Sanae asks.
> "No?"
> "Then you don't know. Maybe you're the strongest in Gensokyo now."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Well, hold on. If you react to go to the meeting now, the door on my back is open for you. But I do want at least one Sanae to stick around with me, for actual business reasons beyond getting to know each other better."
> Reach into our chest and retrieve Ami's head, torso, and arms.
> "Look lively, you. We've got Outside World mysteries to investigate."
Ami:
> "Huh? Oh, uh, sure, Miss Aya. Let me know how I can help."
-
Aya:
> "Well, hold on. If you react to go to the meeting now, the door on my back is open for you. But I do want at least one Sanae to stick around with me, for actual business reasons beyond getting to know each other better."
> Reach into our chest and retrieve Ami's head, torso, and arms.
> "Look lively, you. We've got Outside World mysteries to investigate."
Ami:
> "Huh? Oh, uh, sure, Miss Aya. Let me know how I can help."
Aya:
> "No point in being there when everyone's not ready, is there?" Sanae questions.
> "Huh? You're going to the outside world? There's no one in Gensokyo out there that you'd be looking for, though." Kogasa says.
> "Suwako is already out there making sure no one's going crazy over this on their end, too."
>_
-
Aya:
> How did Human Sanae react to a second bird woman coming out of our chest, if she reacted at all?
> "Oh, it's nothing that deep. My dear Ami here simply returned from the Outside World not that long ago. It might be worth comparing notes about whatever is going on out there."
Ami:
> "Um, I wasn't there for too long, but if you all need to hear about my experiences, I'll be glad to tell you."
-
Aya:
> How did Human Sanae react to a second bird woman coming out of our chest, if she reacted at all?
> "Oh, it's nothing that deep. My dear Ami here simply returned from the Outside World not that long ago. It might be worth comparing notes about whatever is going on out there."
Ami:
> "Um, I wasn't there for too long, but if you all need to hear about my experiences, I'll be glad to tell you."
Aya:
> You did not peer. Your eyes were on Ami, and well, where you had to pull her from.
> "It's fine. We can worry about the Outside World after we worry about our world." Sanae says.
> "I'll go tell Suwako we're following Aya. You can figure out how to undo... this, by the time you reach your next target, right?" Human Sanae gestures to herself.
> "I don't know if it'll happen when we're apart."
> "Well, you're you, so think about there only being one of you. And when you want two, think about there being two." Kogasa gestures.
> "What?" Human Sanae questions
> "Hm... That makes sense." God Sanae considers.
>_
-
Ami:
> "Oh, alright then. I'll go back to resting up until Miss Aya needs me again. It was nice meeting all of you!"
> Dunk ourselves back into marshmallow heaven.
Aya:
> "Why not try it for a while anyway? If I could be two mes at once I'd definitely want to see what that's like for at least a little bit."
> Give God Sanae a wind order to experimentally poke our chest.
-
Ami:
> "Oh, alright then. I'll go back to resting up until Miss Aya needs me again. It was nice meeting all of you!"
> Dunk ourselves back into marshmallow heaven.
Aya:
> "Why not try it for a while anyway? If I could be two mes at once I'd definitely want to see what that's like for at least a little bit."
> Give God Sanae a wind order to experimentally poke our chest.
Ami:
> You dive back in, wondering in the back of your head if Megumu's woken up yet or not...
Aya:
> "I probably can't do as much split up like this, so I wouldn't be able to figure out more changes." Sanae reasons as you prod at your own chest.
>_
-
Aya:
> ...Hmm. That...might be problematic.
> Well, whatever. We can worry about it later.
> "Ah, I suppose that's true. Well, you'd know yourself better than anyone else."
> "So, then, what do you wish to do, and what can I do to help?"
-
Aya:
> ...Hmm. That...might be problematic.
> Well, whatever. We can worry about it later.
> "Ah, I suppose that's true. Well, you'd know yourself better than anyone else."
> "So, then, what do you wish to do, and what can I do to help?"
Aya:
> "It'd be us helping you, remember? Look for the rest of the people we need?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, you mean like that? Well, there aren't really that many at this point, I don't think..."
> Frown thoughtfully.
> "Reimu, Marisa, Alice all know. The fairies know. The Scarlets know. The Netherworld knows. Eientei knows. You now know. Old Hell and the Earth Spirit Palace know. The Buddhists and Taoists know. Grassroots and the Shining Needle Castle know. The Lunarians know. Lady Matara obviously knows. Even Makai knows.
> "...The kappa and some of the humans might not know? Akyuu's not available for whatever reason, but I do still need to tell Geidontei and the schoolmarm. But really, after that, I think it's just notable individuals like Yuuka and Kasen. After that, we'd be extending to other non-Gensokyo realms. Higan, for one. I don't suppose you've been anywhere noteworthy lately that I don't know about? You tend to get around pretty well for not being a tengu, after all."
-
Aya:
> "Oh, you mean like that? Well, there aren't really that many at this point, I don't think..."
> Frown thoughtfully.
> "Reimu, Marisa, Alice all know. The fairies know. The Scarlets know. The Netherworld knows. Eientei knows. You now know. Old Hell and the Earth Spirit Palace know. The Buddhists and Taoists know. Grassroots and the Shining Needle Castle know. The Lunarians know. Lady Matara obviously knows. Even Makai knows.
> "...The kappa and some of the humans might not know? Akyuu's not available for whatever reason, but I do still need to tell Geidontei and the schoolmarm. But really, after that, I think it's just notable individuals like Yuuka and Kasen. After that, we'd be extending to other non-Gensokyo realms. Higan, for one. I don't suppose you've been anywhere noteworthy lately that I don't know about? You tend to get around pretty well for not being a tengu, after all."
Aya:
> "Just the outside world I guess. So we're going to Higan next?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Nod.
> "We can do that, sure."
-
Aya:
> Nod.
> "We can do that, sure."
Aya:
> "You don't sound like you want to."
>_
-
Aya:
> With a relatively casual tone: "Nah, it's perfectly fine. Entirely independent of having fun on the side, I'm actively trying to be a follower instead of a leader because people keep having their own ideas and not wanting to do what I want to do. I'm less interested in getting things done my way than I am getting them done at all, so if getting things done means I take a back seat, I'm fine with that."
-
Aya:
> With a relatively casual tone: "Nah, it's perfectly fine. Entirely independent of having fun on the side, I'm actively trying to be a follower instead of a leader because people keep having their own ideas and not wanting to do what I want to do. I'm less interested in getting things done my way than I am getting them done at all, so if getting things done means I take a back seat, I'm fine with that."
Aya:
> "Wouldn't the problem with that be that you're the fastest in Gensokyo? So you'd have to carry anyone willing to take the lead. And that'd defeat the purpose of being a follower." Kogasa says.
> "We can't get anywhere as fast as you, though..."
> "Off to Higan, through the Aya express, then." God Sanae shrugs.
> "Hang on, if everyone just needs to get to one spot, can't you perform a miracle that everyone does exactly that?" Kogasa asks Sanae. "I mean, the likelihood of that is super low, so it'd be considered a miracle, right?"
> Both Sanaes pause to consider.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I can take direction just fine when it isn't stupid. It's not like me carrying others makes it so they don't know if I'm going somewhere other than where I'm told."
> "Anyway, I'm fine with the miracle plan if it works."
-
Aya:
> "I can take direction just fine when it isn't stupid. It's not like me carrying others makes it so they don't know if I'm going somewhere other than where I'm told."
> "Anyway, I'm fine with the miracle plan if it works."
Aya:
> "No reason not to try, right?" Kogasa asks.
> "Okay... where is everyone supposed to go, again?" Sanae asks.
> "To Aya's back. Okay, that seems tougher for everyone to suddenly charge for. Especially since she gets around often." Kogasa realizes.
>_
-
Aya:
> Begin hoping for the miracle that, if this teleportation or whatever works, the people involved (other than us) end up inside our chest rather than our back.
> "Aim for Lady Matara's realm specifically, please. I don't need you all suddenly appearing inside my shoulder blades or something like that."
-
Aya:
> Begin hoping for the miracle that, if this teleportation or whatever works, the people involved (other than us) end up inside our chest rather than our back.
> "Aim for Lady Matara's realm specifically, please. I don't need you all suddenly appearing inside my shoulder blades or something like that."
Aya:
> "I'm sure that wouldn't happen. It's the sort of thing where you feel like going somewhere, right? Not suddenly being moved without notice." Kogasa considers.
> "Yeah, you don't often hear of gods moving entire populations elsewhere out of nowhere on their own."
> "Matara's realm? Well, here goes-"
> "Oh, make sure its only the people we want. Not others like, civilians from outside Gensokyo."
> "How do we specify that?" Sanae questions herself.
> "Uhh..."
>_
-
> "Maybe just use individual names?"
-
> "Maybe just use individual names?"
> "Can you... give us a list, then?"
> "Is it possible like that? Rather than just anyone in common to a certain thing we're looking for?" Kogasa asks.
> Both Sanae's shrug.
>_
-
Aya:
> Look confused.
> "I thought it was just you three teleporting there. Why do you need a list of you own names?"
-
Aya:
> Look confused.
> "I thought it was just you three teleporting there. Why do you need a list of you own names?"
Aya:
> "I thought we were gathering everyone we needed for this thing? We were going to go look for anyone notable in Higan next before this was suggested."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Most everyone's already there. As for anyone left still to gather, it's basically just people that don't know this is going on in the first place, that would probably be shocked and annoyed if they up and got warped somewhere else with no warning or consent request."
-
Aya:
> "Most everyone's already there. As for anyone left still to gather, it's basically just people that don't know this is going on in the first place, that would probably be shocked and annoyed if they up and got warped somewhere else with no warning or consent request."
Aya:
> "Oh. If there's no one else, we can just head in your back, right?" Sanae questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Yeah, if you want."
-
Aya:
> "Yeah, if you want."
Aya:
> Kogasa thinks for a bit while the Sanaes get up and head for your back.
>_
-
Aya:
> Gently open our wings so the door is easier to get to.
-
Aya:
> Gently open our wings so the door is easier to get to.
Aya:
> You part your wings.
> Both head in, followed by Kogasa.
>_
-
Aya:
> Sigh.
> Check back inside the shrine for anyone else.
-
Aya:
> Sigh.
> Check back inside the shrine for anyone else.
Aya:
> You look around... there doesn't appear to be anyone else here.
>_
-
Aya:
> Off to Higan by air, then...
-
Aya:
> Off to Higan by air, then...
Aya:
> You start for Higan and the Sanzu river.
> There's a big line here.
>_
-
Aya:
> ...Of living people, or souls?
> Is Komachi present?
-
Aya:
> ...Of living people, or souls?
> Is Komachi present?
> They seem to be mixed.
>_
-
> Is Komachi present?
-
> Is Komachi present?
Aya:
> You don't see her.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Hey, what happened here?"
-
Aya:
> "Hey, what happened here?"
Aya:
> They don't seem to hear you. Or look your way.
>_
-
Aya:
> Try reaching out and gently touching the nearest person on the shoulder.
-
Aya:
> Try reaching out and gently touching the nearest person on the shoulder.
Aya:
> You try to tap the nearest person; however, your hand passes right through them.
>_
-
> Fly along the line, then, following where it goes until someone tries to stop us or we find someone or something of interest.
-
> Fly along the line, then, following where it goes until someone tries to stop us or we find someone or something of interest.
Aya:
> You fly beside the crowd...
> You soon notice the Sanzu River come into view amidst its mist. There's a heavy feeling of sorrow in the air.
> Your wings feel a tad weak, as if hesitation is making you rethink taking another step forward. It's just your wings though. Given you aren't using your legs right now, you wonder if they'd feel like that, too.
Seki:
> "I think this is everyone that's going to be here..." Sanae speaks up, having arrived a few moments ago. Kogasa beside her looks upset about something.
> "Fine with me. We've been waiting forever anyways." Reimu says.
>_
-
Aya:
> It's okay. We're not here to commit suicide.
> Land and try walking further along.
---
Seki:
> Give Kogasa a lazy wave.
> "What's up?'
-
Aya:
> It's okay. We're not here to commit suicide.
> Land and try walking further along.
---
Seki:
> Give Kogasa a lazy wave.
> "What's up?'
Aya:
> You land, giving your wings a rest.
> Your legs fare better, comparatively.
> As you walk, you suddenly feel your consciousness slip. As if death itself yanked on your from behind, your body stumbles - you feel like it's not even yours...
> "HAA. A familiar face!" Komachi's voice brings you back to your senses, as she pulls you to face her. "PLEASE tell me things aren't as annoying in the rest of Gensokyo. No, wait, tell me you need me for something. I could REALLY use a change of scenery."
> She looks bigger than you. Not in that department, but you feel smaller compared to her. On top of her height, of course...
Seki:
> Kogasa waves back, getting rid of her slight sulk.
> "Others would be in places that probably aren't affected, so..." Sanae answers.
> "Oh, here you guys are." Sunny speaks as she flies in, followed by her two companions as usual. "Ghost lady says she can't really come."
> "I'll relay what we discuss here to her when I return, then." Youmu says.
> "Master says there's situations in Hell she has to take care of. I think I'm supposed to ask if other places are like that now?" Clownpiece starts.
> "Heaven's been flooded with more and more people. A lot of them think I'm their God, or, were thinking such." Tenshi comments. "I couldn't get them off my back, so I said I was just an angel. Still didn't help much."
> "If it's Heaven and Hell, maybe people from the outside world are ending up there?" Maribel comments.
> "That's... gonna be really worrying if they come back after this is over. But if they don't where will they go? You said it's flooding with people, right? Is that okay?" Renko asks.
> "Eh, more or less." Tenshi shrugs. "Probably."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Uh, why are you bigger? More than normal, I mean. Oh, gods, I didn't die, did I?"
> Give ourselves a quick check.
> "Gensokyo's in rough shape. We're blending with The Outside World, or something. I'd love to bring someone back with me, though. You or your boss or Kutaka or whoever."
---
Seki:
> Let the bigwigs talk about important stuff, and make our way over to Kogasa.
> Quietly: "You okay?"
-
Aya:
> "Uh, why are you bigger? More than normal, I mean. Oh, gods, I didn't die, did I?"
> Give ourselves a quick check.
> "Gensokyo's in rough shape. We're blending with The Outside World, or something. I'd love to bring someone back with me, though. You or your boss or Kutaka or whoever."
---
Seki:
> Let the bigwigs talk about important stuff, and make our way over to Kogasa.
> Quietly: "You okay?"
Aya:
> "No, you seem different enough from the rest here."
> You check yourself. Everytjing's all there... not see through. Not floating without wings. No tail replacing your legs...
> "Ugh, I don't think that's be reason enough for one of us to go." Komachi sighs.
Seki:
> They seem to continue on about if anyone can even do anything about it. Yuyuko comes up as a possibility in the topic, but it doesn't look like anyone thinks it's a good idea...
> You wander over to Kogasa and Sanae.
> "Hm?" She looks herself over. "Yeah. Is there something on my face?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "We're having a region-wide meeting to determine what to do moving forward. I was hoping to get one of you for it. Given the apparent state of Bhavagra, I'm willing to bet that blending I mentioned is the reason you have that giant line back there."
> Frown a bit.
> "And speaking of giant, I ask again how you got way bigger than me than I remember you being."
---
Seki:
> "Yeah, that sour look a few moments ago."
-
Aya:
> "We're having a region-wide meeting to determine what to do moving forward. I was hoping to get one of you for it. Given the apparent state of Bhavagra, I'm willing to bet that blending I mentioned is the reason you have that giant line back there."
> Frown a bit.
> "And speaking of giant, I ask again how you got way bigger than me than I remember you being."
---
Seki:
> "Yeah, that sour look a few moments ago."
Aya:
> "That just seems to be how a lot of people have been seeing me lately. I mean, it sorta keeps commotion down, so i can't complain as much."
> Komachi thinks for a moment.
> "Still... if anyone would have to stay here, it'd be me. There's no way for any of these souls to get past the Sanzu River without me." She sighs again. "It's my job, yes, and I don't hate it, but looking at how big this line is and the slight feeling that this is wrong..."
> Yet again, Komachi sighs.
> "I shouldn't be so upset... I'm sure Eiki is going through much worse if she feels even a twinge of the same."
Seki:
> "Oh. It was just something silly to get upset over. In fine."
> "I told you I can do it again if you want-"
> "It's alright, Sanae." Kogasa puts her hands up. "You have to focus on improving yourself."
> "Hmhm, I'll do my best~"
>_
-
Aya:
> "Can I get to her without feeling like I'm dying again? Even just feeling that once was pretty unpleasant."
---
Seki:
> Blink in confusion.
-
Aya:
> "Can I get to her without feeling like I'm dying again? Even just feeling that once was pretty unpleasant."
---
Seki:
> Blink in confusion.
Aya:
> Komachi looks towards the river, then back to you.
> "I'm not sure."
Seki:
> "I told you it was just something silly. You don't need to worry."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Damn."
> Look Komachi up and down.
> "...I wonder if this really is purely perception, or if you actually are that large now."
> Gesture to our chest.
> "Not gonna lie, I'd be very interested to see how I'd change if you went in here. Ah, that's a thing I can do now, there's a few people in there already."
---
Seki:
> "...Alright, if you say so."
-
Aya:
> "Damn."
> Look Komachi up and down.
> "...I wonder if this really is purely perception, or if you actually are that large now."
> Gesture to our chest.
> "Not gonna lie, I'd be very interested to see how I'd change if you went in here. Ah, that's a thing I can do now, there's a few people in there already."
---
Seki:
> "...Alright, if you say so."
Aya:
> "I thought I saw something strange. I'm sure it's nice to have the leisure to fool around, but I have to get back to work before Eiki notices the weird pause. Sorry." Komachi starts for the river, but pauses. "Ah, I'll tell her about your uh... region wide meeting or whatever."
> You wonder if Sekibanki or Sanae could make it across. Seki did things with souls earlier, and Sanae is a goddess. Maybe one of them could even lend a hand carrying people across? Is that even possible?
Seki:
> "What about you? You don't seem too thrilled to be here." Kogasa points out
>_
-
Aya:
> "Would you want any help if I can find someone? ...If that's even allowed."
---
Seki:
> Shrug.
> "I just don't want attention, and I've been getting an inordinate amount of it lately. If they can figure things out without needing to involve me, I'm fine being here."
-
Aya:
> "Would you want any help if I can find someone? ...If that's even allowed."
---
Seki:
> Shrug.
> "I just don't want attention, and I've been getting an inordinate amount of it lately. If they can figure things out without needing to involve me, I'm fine being here."
Aya:
> "I mean, if you know any other Shinigami who also have boats that can cross the Sanzu, sure, I'd apprectiate the help." Komachi responds.
Seki:
> "Gee, it must be a headache having people want you around, huh..." Kogasa crosses her arms.
> "Some people just don't like attention or interacting with others a lot." Sanae pulls Kogasa away. "There's people like that in the outside world too. Here, help me explain miracles."
> "Why would you need help? You should-"
> "An outsider's view on it helps explain it, too."
> "So you can still pull them off in the current state of Gensokyo?" Reimu questions.
> "I mean, I seem capable of manifesting a more straightforward example of being a goddess, and of being a human." Sanae explains.
> "She was two Sanae's before we got here." Kogasa adds.
> "I'm... Not sure that's a miracle... But if you're "godly" enough and can still do miracles, we should have a way to fix all of this." Reimu says. "That leaves the question of if we should."
> "I'm not sure if it's going to continue, but the mountain started to poke into the outside world. Or the other way around." Kogasa mentions.
> "If that's increasing in frequency, won't Gensokyo entirely be gone at some point?" Sanae wonders. "Lady Suwako and Lady Kanako..."
> "I'd rather not have my mansion suddenly overtaken by plains or someone's house." Remilia comments. "This should probably be stopped."
>_
-
Aya:
> How familiar are we with the Animal Realm?
> "I'll see what I can do!"
> Take off for Yuuka's territory.
---
Seki:
> "How much of a chance do most of us have of even surviving it if it progresses too far?"
-
Aya:
> How familiar are we with the Animal Realm?
> "I'll see what I can do!"
> Take off for Yuuka's territory.
---
Seki:
> "How much of a chance do most of us have of even surviving it if it progresses too far?"
Aya:
> You've heard of it but haven't tracked down its residents for word about their experience with that incident yet. At least Hecatia has that fairy of hers around most of the time she's in Gensokyo. Catching other people from a hell seems surprisingly difficult.
> You finally get away from the Sanzu River, heading for Yuuka's sunflower field.
Seki:
> "This is probably a discussion in the first place because it hasn't been fatal to anyone thus far." Remilia comments.
> "Thus far. We shouldn't wait until it does." Reimu reasons.
> "No one gets hurt if we stop it, but if we don't, someone might." Sanae nods.
> "That's hard to argue against. Does anyone have any reason in favor of letting this happen to Gensokyo, even if it's a small reason?" Eirin asks.
> There's silence...
>_
-
Seki:
> Well, we sure don't have any ideas in support of whatever's happening, so we're not speaking up...
-
Seki:
> Well, we sure don't have any ideas in support of whatever's happening, so we're not speaking up...
Aya:
> You arrive at, or rather, above the sunflower field without issue. At least there's not anything crazy happening here like at the Sanzu River.
> Somehow, all of the sunflowers are up and healthy. Cirno's... incident wasn't too long ago, right? At least, not long enough that these should be grown like now.
Seki:
> "I guess all I can say is it'd be interesting." Mokou shrugs. "So, no one is in favor of letting Gensokyo go this way."
> "Then should we start working to stop this?"
> "Would the first step be strengthening the barrier around Gensokyo, or somehow stopping these places like on the mountain?" Sanae asks.
> "Probably the barrier first." Byakuren speaks. "Then fixing the affected areas should be easier, right?"
> "If you patch up the affected areas first, then the barrier will be easier to fix. It should be done that way." Miko argues.
> "There's no reason to argue. I agree with Hijiri." Shinki states. "Fixing this barrier first means no more places should be affected. If that is what's causing it."
> "Well, the netherworld's barrier was... naturally... weakening, as time went on." Youmu speaks, glancing aside. "So it's-"
> "Most likely natural degrading of the Great Hakurei Barrier?" Reimu finishes. "But..."
> "How do we repair it when the gap lady here isn't feeling too hot?" This... girl, continues. "Well, Makai's goddess is here. I'm sure she's able to contribute to that greatly. Add in the Hakurei brat, gap lady herself, and maybe the little gap lady, and that should be enough?"
> "Little gap lady?" Maribel jumps. "I-I just open the ones I notice. I'm not making them myself or anything."
> "Reusing previously opened ones? Clever." Yukari chuckles.
>_
-
Aya:
> Have an aerial look around for Yuuka.
---
Seki:
> Clarification request: Who spoke after Reimu but before Maribel?
-
Aya:
> Have an aerial look around for Yuuka.
---
Seki:
> Clarification request: Who spoke after Reimu but before Maribel?
Aya:
> You scan the area, before spotting Yuuka in a corner of the field.
Seki:
> You aren't sure of her name. You can make out "Ellen", but there's more in there. Something with a K, and something with an M, you believe.
>_
-
Aya:
> Flying around and outside the border of her field so as to not trespass, head over to her.
> "Hey! How are you holding up?"
---
Seki:
> "We've also got, like, a slew of heroes here. I'm sure some of them can do something."
-
Aya:
> Flying around and outside the border of her field so as to not trespass, head over to her.
> "Hey! How are you holding up?"
---
Seki:
> "We've also got, like, a slew of heroes here. I'm sure some of them can do something."
Aya:
> You circumvent the flowers.
> "Fine now. And you? You seem quite busy, if darting here liike that is any indication." Yuuka responds.
Seki:
> "Many of us can't really put a hand in barrier work." Remilia comments.
>_
-
Aya:
> Do we know where we could find Hermit Ibaraki?
> "Been doing okay when not feeling like death is taking me. I've been trying to spread the word about a region-wide gathering to discuss the direction we all want to take Gensokyo in, relative to all the weirdness that's been happening to it."
> Grin a bit and lean ourselves forward to show Yuuka some more of our cleavage.
> "I've also been giving people rides that have trouble getting around now for one reason or another. There's a couple of others in here right now taking a nap, in fact."
---
Seki:
> "Not to be rude, but have they tried?"
-
Aya:
> Do we know where we could find Hermit Ibaraki?
> "Been doing okay when not feeling like death is taking me. I've been trying to spread the word about a region-wide gathering to discuss the direction we all want to take Gensokyo in, relative to all the weirdness that's been happening to it."
> Grin a bit and lean ourselves forward to show Yuuka some more of our cleavage.
> "I've also been giving people rides that have trouble getting around now for one reason or another. There's a couple of others in here right now taking a nap, in fact."
---
Seki:
> "Not to be rude, but have they tried?"
Aya:
> You know she has some hidden place on Youkai Mountain. Given who you are and your occupation, you think you've seen where she might be hiding it a couple times. You aren't sure if the changes to Gensokyo means it's still in the same area though.
> "Sounds like you're enjoying yourself despite it all then. Good. You shouldn't let others get you down. Be it this incident, or actual people." Yuuka responds. "You should be careful around here. Given what Rumia caused, then that ice fairy's mishaps, I'm sure some third event will try to bother my home soon enough."
Seki
> "I've tried spreading a mist to block out the sun, but I'm sure everyone knows how that went. I can't say my sister or I are as good at delicate defenses like that." Remilia says. "Something that ignores sunlight, but prevents youkai and humans from passing through."
> "I don't have any magic tailor fit for the entirety of Gensokyo like that, either." Patchouli says.
> "I'm sure Alice and I are able to lend a hand." Shinki says.
> Alice sighs.
> "Time manipulation probably won't help as much in this. What about you, Sekibanki?" Sakuya questions.
> "Uh, it might help!" Kogasa chimes. "Aren't Gensokyo and the outside world at different times?"
> "No / it does-" Both Usamis speak.
> "Huh?" Sumireko questions.
> "I think we don't count. We're from... a different... one?" Maribel... explains?
> "You can't just leave Gensokyo and end up where, or when, they're from, is what she means." Yukari explains.
> "But time is still a pretty big barrier that no one can overcome, right?" Kogasa questions. "Can't you..." She gestures, trying to find a word. "Do something with that as a part of it?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "At this point, I wouldn't be surprised, as much as I imagine it would be something on a scale grander than any of us individually could produce."
> Wiggle our chest in Yuuka's direction just a bit.
> "I'm guessing that means you would rather stay here than come with me?"
---
Seki:
> "What if you make time go backwards to undo what's been done?"
-
Aya:
> "At this point, I wouldn't be surprised, as much as I imagine it would be something on a scale grander than any of us individually could produce."
> Wiggle our chest in Yuuka's direction just a bit.
> "I'm guessing that means you would rather stay here than come with me?"
---
Seki:
> "What if you make time go backwards to undo what's been done?"
Aya:
> "Of course." Yuuka responds.
> You feel a bit off, like she's being oddly friendly... You sorta expected her to at least be annoyed with you, if not insulted by such a gesture.
Seki:
> "Travelling backwards through time is impossible." Kaguya comments.
> "Well, I've heard of someone who can alter history depending on the day..." Mokou says. "So it's not impossible to change the past, in a sort of way."
>_
-
Aya:
> "...You sure you're okay? Like, I would genuinely like to have you along with me like this, but I also expected your rejection to be...more forceful, let's say."
---
Seki:
> "Is it really impossible? Hasn't a whole bunch of stuff just happened today that was supposed to be impossible?"
-
Aya:
> "...You sure you're okay? Like, I would genuinely like to have you along with me like this, but I also expected your rejection to be...more forceful, let's say."
---
Seki:
> "Is it really impossible? Hasn't a whole bunch of stuff just happened today that was supposed to be impossible?"
Aya:
> "You must have me mistaken. I simply enjoy having things my way. You aren't being much of a bother, aside from having someone to speak with for a bit."
Seki:
> "Well, Sakuya?" Remilia looks over.
> "If such a thing is possible, I'd still have to find a way to convince those with the abilities to strengthen the barrier to do such before this happens." Sakuya explains.
> "There was something with the moon, too. It wasn't just Gensokyo, was it?" Daiyousei asks.
> "Miss Toyohime?" Eirin questions.
> "Yes, the moon was also going through some strange situations." Toyohime says.
> "I'd have trouble getting to the moon and warning of this before it happens, too." Sakuya adds.
> "It's times like these where making up code phrases for just in case another you appears from the future or such happens would come in handy." Sumireko says. "Too bad my doppelgangers were all against me."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Well, alright. I'll leave you to your field, then, in the hopes that nothing untoward happens to it. Oh, though there is one other important thing; there's currently a gathering of most of Gensokyo's movers and shakers in Lady Matara's back door realm. They're working on deciding how we should all proceed from here, given everything that's happened. You may or may not want a seat at that table, it's up to you."
---
Seki:
> Look at Kagerou and Waka.
> "...We didn't ever develop code names, did we?"
-
Aya:
> "Well, alright. I'll leave you to your field, then, in the hopes that nothing untoward happens to it. Oh, though there is one other important thing; there's currently a gathering of most of Gensokyo's movers and shakers in Lady Matara's back door realm. They're working on deciding how we should all proceed from here, given everything that's happened. You may or may not want a seat at that table, it's up to you."
---
Seki:
> Look at Kagerou and Waka.
> "...We didn't ever develop code names, did we?"
Aya:
> "Either way is fine by me." Yuuka responds. You're not sure if that's in response to where they'll continue to, or her seat, but you'd assume the former given she hasn't moved.
Seki:
> "Code names? What for?" Kagerou questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Aces. Stay green, comrade. And don't forget my transportation offer, should the whim ever cross you."
> Take to the air and zip over to where on the mountain we think Ibaraki might reside.
---
Seki:
> Shrug.
> "I dunno. Guess meeting future selves was never really a consideration for us, huh?"
-
Aya:
> "Aces. Stay green, comrade. And don't forget my transportation offer, should the whim ever cross you."
> Take to the air and zip over to where on the mountain we think Ibaraki might reside.
---
Seki:
> Shrug.
> "I dunno. Guess meeting future selves was never really a consideration for us, huh?"
Aya:
> "I'll consider it." Yuuka comments, before letting you resume your flight.
> You return to the mountain, starting to rack your mind over where Miss Ibara's place is... you have a general idea, but-
> You notice something different with the wind in an area. Not like something's hidden, but that air is flowing through a spot. Like a small hole in a balloon.
Seki:
> "Yeah, I don't think anyone would expect to meet another of themselves, Youkai or not." Kagerou responds.
> Yet there's been some duplicates already... Cirno. Sanae and Sumireko supposedly.
> "Who here can mess with time, then? Or is specialized in it?" Renko asks.
> Sakuya raises get hand. As does Kaguya.
> "There's a um... the Shinigami girl. I hear she can mess with distances. Does that count?" Hatate questions.
> "Time and Space aren't too unrelated." Eirin nods. "It could help."
> "She's probably too busy with Hell if I had to guess." Tenshi comments.
>_
-
Aya:
> Mental check: Where did Utsuho get off to, again?
> ???
> Alter our flight path and aim directly for that spot. It might lead to the hermit's abode, or maybe the Outside World...or maybe even something else entirely...
---
Seki:
> "Did no one tell her about this? Come to think of it, isn't that what that tengu was supposed to be flying around doing?"
-
Aya:
> Mental check: Where did Utsuho get off to, again?
> ???
> Alter our flight path and aim directly for that spot. It might lead to the hermit's abode, or maybe the Outside World...or maybe even something else entirely...
---
Seki:
> "Did no one tell her about this? Come to think of it, isn't that what that tengu was supposed to be flying around doing?"
Aya:
> You don't recall. You suppose she's on her way to the underground, if she isn't already. That or hanging out with Tokiko?
> You head for that area, following the wind and going past it?
> There's nothing new here. Still the same surroundings.
> Maybe it's from you passing it or the wind from such, but you don't notice that sort of spot anymore. The wind's all normal now...
Seki:
> "Yeah, but she said this was all." Sanae gestures around.
>_
-
Aya:
> Backtrack a bit until we can feel it again.
---
Seki:
> "Did she have anything else to say that we should know about?"
-
Aya:
> Backtrack a bit until we can feel it again.
---
Seki:
> "Did she have anything else to say that we should know about?"
Aya:
> You start to fly back, only to trip over something, but get caught before you hit something else.
> "I, nn, thought that youkai looked familiar." you hear Kasen's voice under you. "What are you doing almost crashing around, Aya?"
> Your size makes it near-impossible to actually see if the person carrying you is Kasen...
Seki:
> Sanae thinks... then shrugs.
> "If she's not here, she's probably still looking for others despite saying this was enough?" Kogasa says. "She does have the way here anyways. It's not like someone's gonna capture her and not investigate this."
>_
-
Aya:
> Come to think of it, if we're that large, how weighted down do we feel?
> "Oh! Looking for you, actually. Thanks for the catch. One moment..."
> Backflip out of her arm(s) and land on our feet like any perfect wind-expert karasu tengu should be able to do.
> "I wanted to check on you to see if you were okay. And let you know about a meeting happening in Lady Matara's back door realm, regarding what to do about Gensokyo's changing state. And, well, to see if you'd want to ride around the region with me."
> Retrieve the Bankihead we have on our person to show it off to Kasen for a couple of seconds, then stick it back into our chest.
> "This is a thing I can do now. I've been told it's pretty comfortable."
-
Aya:
> Come to think of it, if we're that large, how weighted down do we feel?
> "Oh! Looking for you, actually. Thanks for the catch. One moment..."
> Backflip out of her arm(s) and land on our feet like any perfect wind-expert karasu tengu should be able to do.
> "I wanted to check on you to see if you were okay. And let you know about a meeting happening in Lady Matara's back door realm, regarding what to do about Gensokyo's changing state. And, well, to see if you'd want to ride around the region with me."
> Retrieve the Bankihead we have on our person to show it off to Kasen for a couple of seconds, then stick it back into our chest.
> "This is a thing I can do now. I've been told it's pretty comfortable."
Aya:
> You haven't felt too weighed down by yourself. Perhaps it's a testament to your strength, even when carrying others.
> Using the wind, given your wings are sorta caught up, you flip yourself out of Kasen's arms and behind her.
> Kasen blinks...
> "I'm glad to see you're all better, nimble and such despite... all of that. I was half expecting you to faint again on seeing me."
>_
-
Aya:
> Random thought: given our past experience with choking on a crow and our leg down Ami's throat, do we think she could get a crow down without choking?
> "Nah, you're fine. I think I'm largely over that whole thing at this point, too."
> Pat our chest with a smile.
> "So, what say you, fair maiden? Fancy a ride to go on an adventure with me?"
---
Seki:
> "Ah, she just pulled me out again."
> Frown a bit.
> "Wish she could do that for a little longer...anything, she was talking to the pink-haired lady with the bandaged arm."
-
Aya:
> Random thought: given our past experience with choking on a crow and our leg down Ami's throat, do we think she could get a crow down without choking?
> "Nah, you're fine. I think I'm largely over that whole thing at this point, too."
> Pat our chest with a smile.
> "So, what say you, fair maiden? Fancy a ride to go on an adventure with me?"
---
Seki:
> "Ah, she just pulled me out again."
> Frown a bit.
> "Wish she could do that for a little longer...anything, she was talking to the pink-haired lady with the bandaged arm."
Aya:
> A regular crow? Probably.
> "I've been keeping busy myself. Even if I were free, I can't argue that I'd really want to." Kasen admits.
Seki:
> "Why don't you ask her? The door's right there." Okina says.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Aww, but it's comfy, and I'd be glad to have your company~"
---
Seki:
> "Is there anything pressing we need to ask her?"
-
Aya:
> "Aww, but it's comfy, and I'd be glad to have your company~"
---
Seki:
> "Is there anything pressing we need to ask her?"
Aya:
> "I don't doubt that. It'd probably be more warm than a blanket, but I'm not really into the idea of it."
Seki:
> "Not unless we're trying that time travel idea." Reimu shrugs. "Otherwise, I guess we have all we need to try and do the other one."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh. ...Sorry. I guess I shouldn't blithely assume everyone's okay with this sort of thing, huh."
---
Seki:
> Shrug.
> "Whatever works is fine."
-
Aya:
> "Oh. ...Sorry. I guess I shouldn't blithely assume everyone's okay with this sort of thing, huh."
---
Seki:
> Shrug.
> "Whatever works is fine."
Aya:
> "I'm not offended by it. Just not my thing."
Seki:
> "I guess let's get started with the barrier?" Reimu looks over to Yukari.
> "We can go check out the outside areas." Renko says. "I think we'd be able to find them easily. Well, better than others. And deal with them. You can, right, Merry?"
> "I said I was only opening and closing the spots that were already made."
> "It's a place with a clear distinction from the rest. That should be enough, right?"
> Maribel sighs, while Reimu and the crew picked for Barrier stuff already seems to be heading out for it.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Mmm. And I'm guessing that offering it at a place to be in both solitude and comfort doesn't change that, huh."
---
Seki:
> Give 'em a lazy wave on their way out.
-
Aya:
> "Mmm. And I'm guessing that offering it at a place to be in both solitude and comfort doesn't change that, huh."
---
Seki:
> Give 'em a lazy wave on their way out.
Aya:
> "I'd have my Senkai for that, usually."
Seki:
> You give a light effort to wave them off.
> "Anyone else good at finding things or places that are weird?" Renko asks.
> "I guess I'd be of help." Momizi raises her hand.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Well, this unique and fluffy brand of comfort is part of the appeal."
---
Seki:
> Let's sit back and wait for this to work itself out, waiting until something comes up that we'd actually be good at.
-
Aya:
> "Well, this unique and fluffy brand of comfort is part of the appeal."
---
Seki:
> Let's sit back and wait for this to work itself out, waiting until something comes up that we'd actually be good at.
Aya:
> "You must've forgotten about my pets, hm?" Kasen boasts.
Seki:
> You wait for your specialty to be called, and so far, it seems like it won't be. Merry and Renko ended up accompanied by Momizi and Hatate for travel. Though Sumireko seems to be offering her hand for extra protection, since they're humans.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Ah, yeah...though, they could come too."
-
Aya:
> "Ah, yeah...though, they could come too."
Aya:
> "If you really want some volunteers, try some fairies. They probably won't think twice about it."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Mmm. Maybe. Alright, my job here is done. Keep the meeting I mentioned in mind, in case you want to get in on it yourself."
-
Aya:
> "Mmm. Maybe. Alright, my job here is done. Keep the meeting I mentioned in mind, in case you want to get in on it yourself."
Aya:
> "Stay safe out here. Try not to over-exert yourself and faint again." Kasen waves.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Thanks. Best of luck with enlightenment."
> Take flight again and head to where we think the Animal Realm is. Try feeling for Lord Tenma's winds along the way, just in case we happen across them again.
-
Aya:
> "Thanks. Best of luck with enlightenment."
> Take flight again and head to where we think the Animal Realm is. Try feeling for Lord Tenma's winds along the way, just in case we happen across them again.
Aya:
> You take flight, but stop in wonder... you're not sure how to get to the animal realm. Would it just be through Hell? Maybe you can hitch a ride with Hecatia? Clownpiece should be easy to find, too.
>_
-
Aya:
> That works! And Piece owes us for being her bed for a while. Change course and track the Hell peeps down (though still feeling for Tenma along the way).
-
Aya:
> That works! And Piece owes us for being her bed for a while. Change course and track the Hell peeps down (though still feeling for Tenma along the way).
Aya:
> You consider where they were last. Given that were at the lake earlier, that should still be at the new meeting point now. In the interest of running into Tenma, you take the long way.
> Yet, even through such, you don't notice active signs of her flying about. You arrive, disappointed even further that Hecatia seems to be absent from the group, as well as your tengu comrades. At least Clownpiece and Larva are still present.
>_
-
Aya:
> Give them a wave.
> "Hey there, lovebirds! Hope your date's going well. Where's your master? I need to find the Animal Realm."
-
Aya:
> Give them a wave.
> "Hey there, lovebirds! Hope your date's going well. Where's your master? I need to find the Animal Realm."
Aya:
> "Date?" Marisa asks.
> "Oh, right. We could be doing that instead of this. It's getting boring sitting around here." Clownpiece says. "Master had to take care of things in Hell. If you need to get somewhere, I can try to call her."
>_
-
Larva:
> Smile at Marisa.
> "A date! Just...look at her! How could I not?"
Aya:
> "It'd be appreciated. And if you want to ride around with me again, I'd be glad to have you, but I also won't be offended if you want to do your own thing for a while."
-
Larva:
> Smile at Marisa.
> "A date! Just...look at her! How could I not?"
Aya:
> "It'd be appreciated. And if you want to ride around with me again, I'd be glad to have you, but I also won't be offended if you want to do your own thing for a while."
Eternity:
> "Looks ain't everything ya know." Marisa gestures, as if to say something with her hands, or maybe about her fingers?
Aya:
> "Master~ Someone wants to go to Hell." Clownpiece waves her- you shouldn't stare at it, actually...
> ...
> "Ah... I guess she's too busy..." Piece sounds dejected.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "Oh. ...Hey, come to think of it, don't you have, like, five girlfriends? I guess quantity counts for something too, huh."
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> "Well damn. Though, now that I think about it, why are you here while she's wherever she is?"
-
Eternity:
> "Oh. ...Hey, come to think of it, don't you have, like, five girlfriends? I guess quantity counts for something too, huh."
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> "Well damn. Though, now that I think about it, why are you here while she's wherever she is?"
Eternity:
> "You'll understand if it happens to you." Marisa responds.
Aya:
> "I'm not the boss of Hell or anything."
>_
-
Eternity:
> "When I get five girlfriends?"
> Adopt a thinking expression.
> "...Sunny, Luna, and Star could make four...but who would be the fifth one then?"
---
Aya:
> "Oh, I figured you just kinda stuck yourself to her."
> Scratch our head.
> "Well, that leaves me in a bind for finding the Animal Realm."
-
Eternity:
> "When I get five girlfriends?"
> Adopt a thinking expression.
> "...Sunny, Luna, and Star could make four...but who would be the fifth one then?"
---
Aya:
> "Oh, I figured you just kinda stuck yourself to her."
> Scratch our head.
> "Well, that leaves me in a bind for finding the Animal Realm."
Eternity:
> "Huh?" Sunny questions as you mention her name. "What were you saying?"
Aya:
> "If you're a close follower to Hecatia, maybe you can open a way to hell?" Daiyousei shrugs. "There's also Sekibanki here and her horses."
>_
-
AyaTernity:
> Just for clarification, where are we at present, and who else is here? (There's no need to list everyone if it would take too long.)
-
AyaTernity:
> Just for clarification, where are we at present, and who else is here? (There's no need to list everyone if it would take too long.)
> You are in Suzunaan, a bookstore in the Human Village. Though, more accurately, you're in Okina's backdoor realm with the most recent open doorway leading to Suzunaan.
> A few of the big shots are gone, like Reimu and Yukari, but some that seem powerful are still around. Remilia's troupe and Shinki, for example. Hatate, Momizi, and the oustide world humans are absent. It seems one group left to handle the barrier, and another broke off to look for affected areas.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "Miss Marisa said five girlfriends could happen to me. You three would probably be two three and four, but I don't know who five would be."
---
Aya:
> "Oh, right, the horse thing."
Seki:
> Look up at the tengu with a expectant look.
-
Eternity:
> "Miss Marisa said five girlfriends could happen to me. You three would probably be two three and four, but I don't know who five would be."
---
Aya:
> "Oh, right, the horse thing."
Seki:
> Look up at the tengu with a expectant look.
Eternity:
> "We're not gonna have any girlfriends." Sunny argues.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "...Really?"
> Look mildly confused.
> "...Where else are they gonna come from, then?"
---
Aya:
> Look back to Piece.
> "Would your Master care if we just suddenly showed up near her?"
-
Eternity:
> "...Really?"
> Look mildly confused.
> "...Where else are they gonna come from, then?"
---
Aya:
> Look back to Piece.
> "Would your Master care if we just suddenly showed up near her?"
Eternity:
> "You clearly don't know enough, hm." Sunny turns.
Aya:
> "I... don't think you'd be a problem to her just by showing up." Clownpiece considers.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "If you've got extra info, I'm all ears!"
Aya:
> Look back at Banki.
Seki:
> Sigh.
> "What's her name again?"
-
Eternity:
> "If you've got extra info, I'm all ears!"
Aya:
> Look back at Banki.
Seki:
> Sigh.
> "What's her name again?"
Eternity:
> "It's the kind of thing you have to come to understand yourself to understand it properly."
> "Mm." Luna nods in agreement.
Seki:
> "Master's name is Hecatia!" Clownpiece responds.
> "Hecatia Lapislazuli." Reisen adds.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "Huh. You all know more about this than I thought."
Aya:
> Give Larva a wink and a grin.
> "Don't underestimate fairies."
---
Seki:
> Say this name with the intent of locating her.
-
Eternity:
> "Huh. You all know more about this than I thought."
Aya:
> Give Larva a wink and a grin.
> "Don't underestimate fairies."
---
Seki:
> Say this name with the intent of locating her.
Eternity:
> "They're probably just thinking about if any guys could be a better boyfriend than Marisa would be a girlfriend, since she has her hands f-"
> "Nuh uh!" Both Sunny and Luna interrupt Star in unison.
Seki:
> You call out Hecatia's name.
> Another weird distance like with Doremy, but at least she's not moving a bunch...
>_
-
Eternity:
> "...Any guys? ...Wait, are boyfriends possible? Huh, I never considered that..."
Aya:
> "Depends on who you like. There are even some that don't necessarily fall into either category, like Lord Tenma."
Seki:
> "Talk of romance aside, I found her. Sorta."
---
-
Eternity:
> "...Any guys? ...Wait, are boyfriends possible? Huh, I never considered that..."
Aya:
> "Depends on who you like. There are even some that don't necessarily fall into either category, like Lord Tenma."
Seki:
> "Talk of romance aside, I found her. Sorta."
---
Eternity:
> "We're not telling you what we're thinking." Sunny.
> "I mean, I feel like there's not many of the girls we know that are like Marisa..." Star comments. "So I'm sure these two do as well, and that maybe it's because she's more like a guy than any girls."
> "It's nice you guys look up to me, but you can find someone that fits you better than me." Marisa advises. "An easy start would be someone you enjoy your time with. Or maybe someone you can trust."
> "We enjoy time with each other." Sunny says.
> "Even though there's bad times sometimes..." Luna continues.
> "We all trust each other, too."
> "Sticking together on good terms, even after bad times is good." Daiyousei nods.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "I guess there's Mister Shopkeeper...but I don't think I know any other guys?"
---
Aya:
> "Great! Let's go, then."
Seki:
> Sigh and head out to wherever our cart is.
Aya:
> Follow along~
-
Eternity:
> "I guess there's Mister Shopkeeper...but I don't think I know any other guys?"
---
Aya:
> "Great! Let's go, then."
Seki:
> Sigh and head out to wherever our cart is.
Aya:
> Follow along~
Eternity:
> "Maybe you should get out more." Luna says.
Seki:
> You guide Aya over to your cart.
> "Are you going to use this?" Remilia questions.
>_
-
Eternity:
> Frown.
> "It was cold!"
---
Seki:
> "That was the goal. Should I not?"
-
Eternity:
> Frown.
> "It was cold!"
---
Seki:
> "That was the goal. Should I not?"
Eternity:
> "Before that!" Sunny says.
> "Maybe she means it's too cold too often." Luna says.
> "You should bundle up with more clothes, then." Star reasons.
Seki:
> "She was just getting comfortable." Patchouli comments.
> "Shut up. You're free to use it, of course." Remilia snaps back, disembarking, alongside the rest of the residents residing inside.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "What other guys are there, then?"
---
Aya:
> "I won't be long, don't worry. You can have her back in just a moment."
> Hop on board.
Seki:
> Get in our driver's seat, and then head to where Hecatia is.
-
Eternity:
> "What other guys are there, then?"
---
Aya:
> "I won't be long, don't worry. You can have her back in just a moment."
> Hop on board.
Seki:
> Get in our driver's seat, and then head to where Hecatia is.
Eternity:
> "You have to find them, obviously. We haven't met many yet." Luna says.
> "None that we remember, at least." Sunny follows up.
Aya:
> You board the cart, somewhat wondering how so many people fit into it.
Seki:
> You hop on and pilot your ride to wherever Hecatoa is, hoping you don't burst into flames on arrival.
> Thankfully, it doesn’t seem like you do. You do surprise the woman herself, though.
> "Eh? How did you get here?" Hecatia questions. "No one should be able to right now."
> This place doesn't look that busy. At least, with where you are now. Maybe the rest is busy?
>_
-
Eternity:
> Cross our arms.
> "Then maybe the guys are the ones that should get out more, instead of me."
---
Aya:
> Which orb is on Hecatia's head?
> Do we know the significance of Hecatia having orbs on her head?
> "We're just that good."
> Hop off the cart.
> "I'll make this quick - how can I get to the Animal Realm?"
-
Eternity:
> Cross our arms.
> "Then maybe the guys are the ones that should get out more, instead of me."
---
Aya:
> Which orb is on Hecatia's head?
> Do we know the significance of Hecatia having orbs on her head?
> "We're just that good."
> Hop off the cart.
> "I'll make this quick - how can I get to the Animal Realm?"
Eternity:
> "Most territories are locked down by girls in Gensokyo." Daiypusei says. "Like the Garden of the sun. It'd be hard to find a guy outside the village I think."
Aya:
> If you recall correctly, she's donning the Hell one.
> You know it corresponds to her having 3 bodies. The others should be for Earth and... the moon, maybe? Doesn't seem as grand as Earth and Hell...
> "Animal Realm? What for?" Hecatia questions.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "...Why is that stopping them? Are they afraid of girls? Well, I can understand being afraid of one specific girl in the Garden of the Sun. But everywhere?"
---
Aya:
> "No one's told them about the happenings yet."
> Look up at the Hell orb, then back at Hecatia's face.
> "Also, out of curiousity..."
> Pull out our Banki head.
> "...what would happen if you had this on top of your head, instead of one of those orbs?"
-
Eternity:
> "...Why is that stopping them? Are they afraid of girls? Well, I can understand being afraid of one specific girl in the Garden of the Sun. But everywhere?"
---
Aya:
> "No one's told them about the happenings yet."
> Look up at the Hell orb, then back at Hecatia's face.
> "Also, out of curiousity..."
> Pull out our Banki head.
> "...what would happen if you had this on top of your head, instead of one of those orbs?"
Eternity:
> "I'm probably not the most popular person among humans either." Remilia comments.
> "Actually, if there are nonhuman guys, why haven't they shown up often?" Sunny questions.
> "Perhaps they're busy doing something in secret..." Okina adds.
Aya:
> You eye Hecatia a bit...
> "..." She puts a hand to her chin. "I'm... not sure. It's not like she represents a place... But she does seem like a capable entity. Maybe not in terms of Hell, but death. Same for that horse-driven coach, too."
>_
-
Eternity:
> "Well, you're the expert on secrets of all of us. Maybe it's worth looking into when things settle down? It does seem weird that there apparently aren't any guys even among the well-established non-human races. Shouldn't there be a fairy guy, or a kappa guy, or a tengu guy?"
---
Aya:
> Hold out the head toward Hecatia.
> "Wanna try it?"
Seki:
> "Hey, don't go getting me possessed or body-snatched or something."
Aya:
> "Oh, I'm sure you'll be fine."
Seki:
> Frown.
-
Eternity:
> "Well, you're the expert on secrets of all of us. Maybe it's worth looking into when things settle down? It does seem weird that there apparently aren't any guys even among the well-established non-human races. Shouldn't there be a fairy guy, or a kappa guy, or a tengu guy?"
---
Aya:
> Hold out the head toward Hecatia.
> "Wanna try it?"
Seki:
> "Hey, don't go getting me possessed or body-snatched or something."
Aya:
> "Oh, I'm sure you'll be fine."
Seki:
> Frown.
Eternity:
> "Yeah. They never show up. They must be hiding." Sunny says. "But how are they never the target of any issues?"
> "Well, maybe they're just hidden well enough. If someone could make infinite sweets, you'd want to find them, right? But if you didn't know someone like that existed in the first place..." Luna reasons.
Aya:
> "This isn't the time to be fooling around. Surely you've heard how busy Hell is?" Hecatia crosses her arms. "However, it's my rules, so maybe a bit of fooling around could lighten the mood~ I am curious, after all." She takes the head in her hands, then swaps her Hell orb's spot atop her head with it.
> ...
> You don't think anything's happening?
> !
> Her head suddenly burst into flames!?
Seki:
> You half expected something like that to happen, if anything at all... Though the orb that was on her head before looks dim now.
>_
-
Seki:
> Just to double-check - why is this happening?
-
Seki:
> Just to double-check - why is this happening?
Seki:
> You have no clue. You know your head, or neck... space, can burst into flames now. But you don't know why hers did from putting your head on her head.
>_
-
Eternity:
> Adopt a thinking expression.
> "Hidden guys in four seasons..."
---
Aya:
> Blink.
> "Uh-"
Seki:
> "Oh. I guess that makes sense."
> Try connecting our head to this god's body.
-
Eternity:
> Adopt a thinking expression.
> "Hidden guys in four seasons..."
---
Aya:
> Blink.
> "Uh-"
Seki:
> "Oh. I guess that makes sense."
> Try connecting our head to this god's body.
Eternity:
> "Who would be the best person to ask about guys hiding though?" Sunny asks.
> "Maybe that store owner. Kourindou, right?" Star suggests.
Seki:
> You try, but it feels like it's already connected to something.
Aya:
> Her head returns to normal. Well, most of it. Her hair still looks like it's engulfed in flames. Or maybe it is the flames?
> "Well... I didn't expect this to actually do anything." Hecatia comments. "It's not like this happened before. I wonder what "world" this would correspond to, then?"
>_
-
Eternity:
> "Seems as decent a lead as any."
---
Aya:
> "How does that feel?"
Seki:
> Hmm. If we're already connected...
> Try taking control of this god's body and waving a hand at the tengu, like we're saying hello.
-
Eternity:
> "Seems as decent a lead as any."
---
Aya:
> "How does that feel?"
Seki:
> Hmm. If we're already connected...
> Try taking control of this god's body and waving a hand at the tengu, like we're saying hello.
Eternity:
> "Yeah, he surely goes to the village sometimes too. Surely. So that'd cover that too."
Aya:
> "A bit familiar, but still mostly unfamiliar.
Seki:
> You try to wave...
> You notice her hair move and wave, but not in the form of a hand. It looks like it's trying to be though.
> "Ah, right, the Animal Realm. It might be a bit dangerous to try and go there now. But it might be interesting if it's you two." Hecatia considers.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "Wanna look into that once all this kerfufflery is over, then? We could scoop all the tengu!"
---
Aya:
> "I'm down for that. Danger is interesting."
Seki:
> "Uh...I think I would rather not stay anywhere dangerous longer than I have to..."
> Try connecting deeper and further into this god's body by extending a neck down into her.
-
Eternity:
> "Wanna look into that once all this kerfufflery is over, then? We could scoop all the tengu!"
---
Aya:
> "I'm down for that. Danger is interesting."
Seki:
> "Uh...I think I would rather not stay anywhere dangerous longer than I have to..."
> Try connecting deeper and further into this god's body by extending a neck down into her.
Eternity:
> "Scoop thr Tengu? Like get a scoop before them, or pick them up?" Sunny questions.
Seki:
> "You'd be fine, probably. It's mostly spirits that are down here, so you'd be at an advantage over all of them. I might turn a blind eye to any mishaps you cause there if they're in self defense."
> You make an attempt, but it just seems to grow her flaming hair out longer...
>_
-
Eternity:
> Shrug.
> "Why not both? Miss Aya's been doing it to everyone else, after all."
---
Aya:
> "Oh, I would never cause problems."
Seki:
> Huh...
> Continue growing the flaming hair out longer until it reaches the god's butt.
> Then try taking control of this god's body once again and waving a hand at the tengu, like we're saying hello.
-
Eternity:
> Shrug.
> "Why not both? Miss Aya's been doing it to everyone else, after all."
---
Aya:
> "Oh, I would never cause problems."
Seki:
> Huh...
> Continue growing the flaming hair out longer until it reaches the god's butt.
> Then try taking control of this god's body once again and waving a hand at the tengu, like we're saying hello.
Eternity:
> "We aren't Tengu. We won't be fast enough." Luna complains.
Aya:
> "I'm sure."
Seki:
> You continue extending your neck, then try again to wave using Hecatia's body.
> "I'll guide you then." She waves, then gestures to follow her. Given how her hair moved less this time, you feel like that was your influence?
>_
-
Eternity:
> "...Maybe if we asked nicely, they'd let us?"
---
Aya:
> Follow that god!
Seki:
> ...
> Continue growing the flaming hair out longer until it reaches the god's feet.
> Then try taking control of this god's body once again and twirling a bit of her hair with a finger.
> If that works, try using our control over the god to read her mind.
-
Eternity:
> "...Maybe if we asked nicely, they'd let us?"
---
Aya:
> Follow that god!
Seki:
> ...
> Continue growing the flaming hair out longer until it reaches the god's feet.
> Then try taking control of this god's body once again and twirling a bit of her hair with a finger.
> If that works, try using our control over the god to read her mind.
Eternity:
> "Has that worked on any Tengu before?"
Aya:
> You start to follow the goddess.
Seki:
> You try, but the hair doesn't continue to grow any further. This might be how much you can do.
> And your control over her doesn't seem to kick in. You wonder when and what makes it do such?
>_
-
Eternity:
> "I don't know if anyone has tried."
---
Aya:
> "So you're okay leaving those two lovebirds by themselves for a while?"
Seki:
> Follow along, leading our carriage with us.
> If the god starts talking to the tengu, use that opportunity to try taking control of this god's body once again and twirling a bit of her hair with a finger.
Aya:
> Glance over at the carriage and steeds. How large are they altogether?
> Does it seem like we could them into our chest?
-
Eternity:
> "I don't know if anyone has tried."
---
Aya:
> "So you're okay leaving those two lovebirds by themselves for a while?"
Seki:
> Follow along, leading our carriage with us.
> If the god starts talking to the tengu, use that opportunity to try taking control of this god's body once again and twirling a bit of her hair with a finger.
Aya:
> Glance over at the carriage and steeds. How large are they altogether?
> Does it seem like we could them into our chest?
Eternity:
> "Well the Tengu we come across never have time to let us do things." Sunny says. "Not like we go to the mountain often."
Aya:
> "Hm?" Hecatia questions.
> The carriage is large, enough that even you might be able to fit comfortably inside. The horses seem noticeably larger than average, as well.
Seki:
> You notice the attempt works this time. Is it only when she's not doing much herself? Or is she actually letting you do this? She hasn't commented on it yet. Surely she notices it.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "Maybe Miss Aya would let you if you asked her. It would only be fair with how much she's done it to others."
--
Aya:
> "Larva and Piece, I mean. Not that I think they'll get up to anything bad, of course."
Seki:
> Hmm...
> Let our attempted control over this god be labeled 'Sekatia'. This includes dialogue being trying to make the god to say what we want her to say. (Do NOT say anything using our on the god's body unless specifically stated.)
Sekatia:
> "Oh. I'm sure they'll be fine. I'm glad they found each other in this way, really. By the way, since I'm doing this for you, would you mind carrying me and going where I instruct you?"
> Change direction to walk over to the tengu and climb into her chest, depositing our body up to our own chest, with the intention of guiding her on where to go instead of spending energy traveling under our own power.
Aya:
> If (and ONLY if) Hecatia asks us to carry her: "Oh, uh, sure, absolutely."
> If (and ONLY if) Hecatia makes her way toward us, lean forward a bit and let her climb in to where she plans to go.
-
Eternity:
> "Maybe Miss Aya would let you if you asked her. It would only be fair with how much she's done it to others."
--
Aya:
> "Larva and Piece, I mean. Not that I think they'll get up to anything bad, of course."
Seki:
> Hmm...
> Let our attempted control over this god be labeled 'Sekatia'. This includes dialogue being trying to make the god to say what we want her to say. (Do NOT say anything using our on the god's body unless specifically stated.)
Sekatia:
> "Oh. I'm sure they'll be fine. I'm glad they found each other in this way, really. By the way, since I'm doing this for you, would you mind carrying me and going where I instruct you?"
> Change direction to walk over to the tengu and climb into her chest, depositing our body up to our own chest, with the intention of guiding her on where to go instead of spending energy traveling under our own power.
Aya:
> If (and ONLY if) Hecatia asks us to carry her: "Oh, uh, sure, absolutely."
> If (and ONLY if) Hecatia makes her way toward us, lean forward a bit and let her climb in to where she plans to go.
Eternity:
> "We've learned not to be hopeful about such things..." Star says.
Aya:
> "Piece is prone to trouble, but she'll be fine." Hecatia responds. "I can feel every tingle you're trying to make, by the way. "I can see you're probably trying to make things more comfortable by having me walk closer, but everyone being close together probably isn't a great idea in hell. Just let me guide you without trouble, or should I stop indulging in your little wonder?" The goddess holds her red orb as she walks.
Seki:
> Well, she mistook what you were doing, so perhaps that means she can't read your mind nor know your exact intentions? Doesn't seem like you can for her either, at least. Though you wonder if she's capable of doing this to you instead.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "Huh? What did she do to you?"
---
Aya:
> "Huh?"
Seki:
> "Sorry."
-
Eternity:
> "Huh? What did she do to you?"
---
Aya:
> "Huh?"
Seki:
> "Sorry."
Eternity:
> "It's more like we have to work for things on our own. Everyone's usually against us." Sunny explains.
Aya:
> "Save it for when we reach the animal realm." Hecatia advises.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "Oh, you mean like that. Well, everything else is different now, so why wouldn't that be different too?"
---
Seki:
> "It's fine. I don't intend to do it again, I don't think."
-
Eternity:
> "Oh, you mean like that. Well, everything else is different now, so why wouldn't that be different too?"
---
Seki:
> "It's fine. I don't intend to do it again, I don't think."
Eternity:
> The fairies shrug.
Seki:
> "I mean your skills in general."
>_
-
Eternity:
> Sage nod.
> "There you go, then."
---
Seki:
> "Oh, I don't think there's anything else I can do. Pretty sure I hit my limit a bit back."
-
Eternity:
> Sage nod.
> "There you go, then."
---
Seki:
> "Oh, I don't think there's anything else I can do. Pretty sure I hit my limit a bit back."
Eternity:
> "We've been doing a lot ourselves but haven't been making achievements. Beating Tengu at speed sounds hard."
Seki:
> "Have you tried your skills on anything that's just a spirit or soul?" Hecatia stops.
> You think you've arrived, then?
>_
-
Eternity:
> "Hey, the harder you work to achieve something, the more you appreciate it."
---
Aya:
> Where are we?
> Is anyone paying attention to Banki's carriage?
-
Eternity:
> "Hey, the harder you work to achieve something, the more you appreciate it."
---
Aya:
> Where are we?
> Is anyone paying attention to Banki's carriage?
Eternity:
> "Is it even worth attempting though? Have you seen how fast Aya and other tengu are?"
Aya:
> It seems another part of Hell. There's plenty more around here. Though, you certainly see a bunch of spirits. You can see why she suggested that to Sekibanki.
> No.
>_
-
Seki:
> What is it we can do with spirits, again?
> What kinds of spirits are they?
-
Seki:
> What is it we can do with spirits, again?
> What kinds of spirits are they?
Seki:
> You recall messing with Aya and her subordinates spirits... And how there was a situation with them going into other bodies.
> They look like creatures. You suppose beasts, rather than youkai.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "I guess you don't have to if you don't want to. I do still think Miss Aya would let you carry her if you asked, though."
---
Aya:
> "Wow, neat place. Anyone notable here?"
> Look around at the spirits.
> "...I bet you could stuff me full of spirits, Banki."
Seki:
> "I mean, if you want..."
> Try stuffing the closest spirit into Aya's body, like we did with the spirit of that one subordinate of hers that one time.
-
Eternity:
> "I guess you don't have to if you don't want to. I do still think Miss Aya would let you carry her if you asked, though."
---
Aya:
> "Wow, neat place. Anyone notable here?"
> Look around at the spirits.
> "...I bet you could stuff me full of spirits, Banki."
Seki:
> "I mean, if you want..."
> Try stuffing the closest spirit into Aya's body, like we did with the spirit of that one subordinate of hers that one time.
Eternity:
> "Are Tengu faster than light?" Luna questions.
> "Ooh, sunlight goes pretty fast. Maybe-"
> "Can you turn into light?" Star and Daiyousei both question. "Huh? Why do you ask such?" Star looks over.
> "Well, I heard some youkai can. Not sure if they can move as fast as it themselves though. I think Yuuka was one. But it doesn't seem like she came here." Daiyousei explains.
Aya:
> The spirits seem to be wary of you. Less afraid, more sizing you up with the eyes of a predator gazing upon prey. Every direction you look, it's the same, and almost seems like more than the last direction you glanced... Though it's not like it gives you that feeling you felt at the Sanzu River. You could probably take them. Assuming they aren't completely incorporeal.
> Looking closer, it seems like there's different kinds, like a mixed pot.
> "Saki, Yachie, and Yuuma are big names down here. There was a god by the name of Keiki that was down here a while ago, but it doesn't seem like she made a lasting impression. At least, not in this immediate area." Hecatia gestures. "I wonder what happened?"
Seki:
> While Hecatia chats, you try to pull one of the nearby souls towards Aya. To its surprise, it's moving to your whims rather easily. Easier than your attempts down in that underground place.
> You plop it into Aya.
Aya:
> As Seki stuffs the nearest animal spirit into you, you feel a twinge in your ears for a moment, or maybe your hair, before it goes away.
> You don't feel any different considerations among your thoughts than normally. Unlike the last time another spirit was put inside you.
>_
-
Eternity:
> Oh, right. Who else is here, fairy or non-fairy?
---
Aya:
> Give Banki a grin and a thumbs-up, then turn back to Hecatia.
> "That's a decent list of names to work with. Thanks."
Seki:
> Shrug.
> Stuff the next ten closest spirits into Aya's body.
-
Eternity:
> Oh, right. Who else is here, fairy or non-fairy?
---
Aya:
> Give Banki a grin and a thumbs-up, then turn back to Hecatia.
> "That's a decent list of names to work with. Thanks."
Seki:
> Shrug.
> Stuff the next ten closest spirits into Aya's body.
Eternity:
> There's those two vampires and their group. Marisa's still here. And... a bunch of others you don't know the names of.
> You know Reimu and some other major people haven't returned yet.
Aya:
> "Take care of yourselves, then." Hecatia waves, lobbing Sekibanki's head to your chest and starting to depart.
Seki:
> You try for ten at a time this time, finding it's still easy. Maybe you can go for a hundred at once?
> You think the spirit are starting to decide whether to fight or flight, judging by how some are getting closer and some are moving away. Now that Hecatia's leaving.
Aya:
> You feel a bit of aggressiveness this time, but nothing you can't overcome. Though, you're not seeing any growth in your body...
>_
-
Eternity:
> "You could always try."
---
Aya:
> Give Hecatia a short wave, then stuff the loose head back into our chest.
> Have a look around at the spirits that are advancing on us
Seki:
> Does Aya look different at all?
> Try controlling as many spirits at once as we can and stuffing them all into Aya. Try also to stuff them into her chest specifically, to see if that makes a difference.
-
Eternity:
> "You could always try."
---
Aya:
> Give Hecatia a short wave, then stuff the loose head back into our chest.
> Have a look around at the spirits that are advancing on us
Seki:
> Does Aya look different at all?
> Try controlling as many spirits at once as we can and stuffing them all into Aya. Try also to stuff them into her chest specifically, to see if that makes a difference.
Eternity:
> "Where would I even start?" Sunny asks.
Aya:
> You wave Hecatia off, then stuff Seki's head back into your chest.
> A few are starting to actually go for a rushing attack, but you see them swiftly dragged around by Seki. A lot, actually... They're starting to cover your view.
Seki:
> You think her hair is a bit longer? Or maybe standing up more? Nothing otherwise as noticeable, if those are even different than normal.
> You try to pull every spirit in the area towards Aya with the intent to get them either into her, or into her chest. It's taxing, but you're managing an entire wave of spirits, almost as much as you can see in one direction.
> "Are you two all right- Eh?!" You hear a voice, though can't really see who it belongs too among the wave of spirits you're sending Aya's way.
>_
-
Eternity:
> Shrug.
> "You'd know that better than anyone else here, I imagine."
---
Aya:
> Grit our teeth and frown a bit.
> "Doin' just fine so far."
> Brace ourselves for what's about to come, and how much more aggressive it might make us.
Seki:
> With Aya having responded, keep our focus on controlling these spirits.
-
Eternity:
> Shrug.
> "You'd know that better than anyone else here, I imagine."
---
Aya:
> Grit our teeth and frown a bit.
> "Doin' just fine so far."
> Brace ourselves for what's about to come, and how much more aggressive it might make us.
Seki:
> With Aya having responded, keep our focus on controlling these spirits.
Eternity:
> "B-But I don't know." Sunny argues, practically whining for some hint.
Aya:
> The feeling is starting to be accompanied by some passivity. Like... Laziness. A sensation of just letting this happen. Letting what happen? Ah, you hadn't noticed it before, but there's starting to be a lot more desire than your own, practically trying to shut yours down and out.
> It's quickly increasing. Maybe you ought to stop this before it gets too much.
Seki:
> A lot of the spirits are starting to flee the area now. You don't notice Aya's size getting bigger or anything, at least from the parts of her figure you can see past the spirits.
>_
-
Eternity:
> Were we present for any of Aya's previous interactions with the Sanyousei?
---
Aya:
> Oh, that's not good...
> "...Well...uh...maybe not..."
Seki:
> With however many spirits already in Aya, use our freed-up control over them to take control of the fleeing spirits to make them stop.
> However, also stop stuffing more spirits into Aya.
> "Do we need to stop?"
Aya:
> "...Maybe..."
> ...Do we need to stop...?
-
Eternity:
> Were we present for any of Aya's previous interactions with the Sanyousei?
---
Aya:
> Oh, that's not good...
> "...Well...uh...maybe not..."
Seki:
> With however many spirits already in Aya, use our freed-up control over them to take control of the fleeing spirits to make them stop.
> However, also stop stuffing more spirits into Aya.
> "Do we need to stop?"
Aya:
> "...Maybe..."
> ...Do we need to stop...?
Eternity:
> You don't recall...
Seki:
> You stop trying to send more spirits into Aya and just settle for stopping the spirits around in general.
Aya:
> Ah, those desires are... Not lessening, but rather like that just suddenly stopped abruptly. You guess you're fine now...?
> "I... thought you two were in trouble, but it looks like you're tearing up this place..." You hear a voice, coming from a blonde girl in yellow... is that armor? Bloomers too? What kind of outfit...
>_
-
Aya:
> We are still clearly ourselves, then?
> Do we feel physically any different?
> Do we feel spirituality any different?
-
Aya:
> We are still clearly ourselves, then?
> Do we feel physically any different?
> Do we feel spirituality any different?
Aya:
> Yes.
> Your hair feels a bit fluffy. Like you messed with it fresh out of bathing... Your chest doesn't feel any bigger.
> You're not really the best at this sort of thing. It feels like those... other feelings and desires are just out of reach, not flooding through you like earlier. Like past a door or wall.
>_
-
Eternity:
> Is Piece present?
---
Aya:
> "...Okay. I'm okay. You can keep going."
Seki:
> Send all the remaining spirits into Aya.
> To the unknown blonde: "We seen to be doing okay for ourselves. It seems sending spirits into people is something I can do. I could probably even place yours within her, if you've ever wondered what it's like to be a tengu."
-
Eternity:
> Is Piece present?
---
Aya:
> "...Okay. I'm okay. You can keep going."
Seki:
> Send all the remaining spirits into Aya.
> To the unknown blonde: "We seen to be doing okay for ourselves. It seems sending spirits into people is something I can do. I could probably even place yours within her, if you've ever wondered what it's like to be a tengu."
Eternity:
> Yep. She looks like she's thinking about the light idea. Though you don't know if she's even gonna share her thoughts.
Seki:
> You stop and resume with the spirits that are left.
> "The only person touching my spirit is lady Keiki. I don't want to be anything but what she wants me to be." The girl shakes her head. "I came to help since there were a lot of animal spirits around here, and humans have been having a really rough time out here, but you two don't seem to be humans anyways, and have things... taken care of."
Aya:
> Seki seems to be continuing, though all of those troubles are starting to quickly return again. Maybe she was stopping it? You... should probably ask her to do so again, before these spirits drown you out from even hearing your own thoughts again.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "Hey, Piece, you have the magic life force fire that makes people do lunatic things. Watchable thinkin'?"
---
Aya:
> "Urgh...wait..."
Seki:
> Stop again, keeping the remaining loose spirits from fleeing.
> Does Aya feel spiritually different to us?
-
Eternity:
> "Hey, Piece, you have the magic life force fire that makes people do lunatic things. Watchable thinkin'?"
---
Aya:
> "Urgh...wait..."
Seki:
> Stop again, keeping the remaining loose spirits from fleeing.
> Does Aya feel spiritually different to us?
Eternity:
> "Huh? I don't think that means they can do things they can't do." Piece explains.
Seki:
> You stop. There's not much spirits left in the area, though now they're attempting ranged attacks at the two of you. Still, with you stopping them, they're really slow...
> It feels like there's a huge wad of spirit in her that's trying to crush another. And a bunch of other spirits that aren't that noticeably compared to the two...
> The blonde seems to be heading for the remaining spirits now, attacking them without caring about your situation. There's a bunch of statue soldiers, you think, also heading towards where the two of you are. Or at least, nearby. Even something bigger further in the distance. Other spirits are attacking them...
>_
-
Eternity:
> "It might help them unlock abilities they didn't know they had."
---
Aya:
> How do we feel now?
> "...Wait, did you say 'Keiki'? That's one of the names we were given as someone worth meeting."
Seki:
> Try compressing the large wad of spirit within Aya.
-
Eternity:
> "It might help them unlock abilities they didn't know they had."
---
Aya:
> How do we feel now?
> "...Wait, did you say 'Keiki'? That's one of the names we were given as someone worth meeting."
Seki:
> Try compressing the large wad of spirit within Aya.
Eternity:
> "It could also just make them make fools of themselves..."
> "Uhh..." Sunny seems unsure about such.
Aya:
> Not that great. It feels like someone just told you you'd be doing unpaid overtime...
> The blonde girl seems preoccupied and away... You don't think she heard you.
Seki:
> It feels difficult to put that visual into practice... It doesn't help that it's not as easy to mess with as the large groups of souls outside of her were.
>_
-
Eternity:
> "I see...hmm..."
> Let's dwell on this for a while, to see if someone has an idea.
---
Aya:
> Have a sit and take a rest for a moment, then.
Seki:
> Try expanding the spirit that's getting crushed, then, since that one is probably Aya herself. (Make sure to keep it within her body!)
-
Eternity:
> "I see...hmm..."
> Let's dwell on this for a while, to see if someone has an idea.
---
Aya:
> Have a sit and take a rest for a moment, then.
Seki:
> Try expanding the spirit that's getting crushed, then, since that one is probably Aya herself. (Make sure to keep it within her body!)
Eternity:
> You try to think...
> "I guess we could try it anyways. There's people here strong enough to stop us." Clownpiece starts to low-
> "D-Don't you have your torch? You don't have to show the flames covering your body." Daiyousei quickly holds onto Piece's dress.
> "I thought it'd be quicker. Okay." Piece retrieves her torch, it's flame igniting more than usual.
> "Do we just like, chant for Sunny to turn into light?" Star questions, covering her eyes.
Aya:
> You sit down and rest.
> With so many of the nearby spirits gone, you now notice the ground a bit more. There's some more humanoid spirits that... don't see to be in the best state. Probably none you can save or do anything about. There's no physical bodies aside from you, Seki, and that blonde girl and her statue followers.
Seki:
> Once again, you don't see how you'd actually be able to do such. Trying to stretch it out wouldn't actually be making it bigger...
>_
-
Seki:
> Getting a feel for the nature of the large wad of spirits, as well as the nature of what we assume is Aya's spirit, does it feel like they could be combined, or like one could absorb the other?
> Are we aware of the humanoid spirits?
> If so, did we stuff any into Aya?
> If so, did they become part of the large wad, or are they loose on their own?
-
Seki:
> Getting a feel for the nature of the large wad of spirits, as well as the nature of what we assume is Aya's spirit, does it feel like they could be combined, or like one could absorb the other?
> Are we aware of the humanoid spirits?
> If so, did we stuff any into Aya?
> If so, did they become part of the large wad, or are they loose on their own?
Seki:
> You don't think they do. The few that aren't sort of do, however.
> Yes, but they seem more like scraps in the wind. You hadn't noticed any of them until now, with most of the beast spirits gone.
> The statues don't seem to have anything like that. You wonder if that puppeteer's dolls are the same, or if they did have something...
>_
-
Seki:
> How many of those other spirits are within Aya? The ones that aren't part of the large wad of animals or part of herself.
-
Seki:
> How many of those other spirits are within Aya? The ones that aren't part of the large wad of animals or part of herself.
Seki:
> There's quite a few. Most seem similar to the big wad, but split up. If the big wad was also split up somehow, maybe they'd be in the same category. You wonder why they aren't together. Or why the large one is together in the first place.
>_
-
Seki:
> Huh, that's weird.
> Pull the big wad out of Aya, so we can see what it is.
-
Seki:
> Huh, that's weird.
> Pull the big wad out of Aya, so we can see what it is.
Seki:
> You separate the large grouping from Aya, though it pulls away from you when it's finally out. It appears to be two large... No, one large two headed wolf. You think it's still a spirit...
> ...
> It's probably a good idea to do something about it before it realizes how close it is to the two of you...
Aya:
> Most of those aggressive desires and feelings seem to vanish entirely now. Not past a door or anything. Though, you think you feel someone glaring daggers at you now, or maybe it's more hostility than just that.
>_
-
Seki:
> ...We didn't see that previously or knowingly add it to Aya's body, did we?
-
Seki:
> ...We didn't see that previously or knowingly add it to Aya's body, did we?
Seki:
> This definitely wasn't among the spirits you added to Aya. But it does seem the same as that big wad. There wasn't anything remotely this big out here earlier.
>_
-
Seki:
> How large is it compared to Aya or ourselves?
> Does it seem corporeal at all?
-
Seki:
> How large is it compared to Aya or ourselves?
> Does it seem corporeal at all?
Seki:
> It looks almost thrice your size. It could probably crush your cart underfoot, though not all of it in one step.
> A bit, yes.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Aya, catch!"
> Temporarily focusing all of our spirit control on this one giant wolf (thereby freeing the other lesser spirits that are currently aggro'd from our keeping them in place), control it to make it move to deposit itself fully into Aya's chest, the same way as has routinely been done to our head.
Aya:
> "Huh?"
> Look over at Banki to see what she's talking about, then look around for the source of the hostility.
-
Seki:
> "Aya, catch!"
> Temporarily focusing all of our spirit control on this one giant wolf (thereby freeing the other lesser spirits that are currently aggro'd from our keeping them in place), control it to make it move to deposit itself fully into Aya's chest, the same way as has routinely been done to our head.
Aya:
> "Huh?"
> Look over at Banki to see what she's talking about, then look around for the source of the hostility.
Seki:
> You attempt to force the spirit to harmlessly deposit itself into Aya, though the attempt only seems to make it lunge for her, a bit to it's own surprise if it's expression is anything to go by. But it seems to go along with the intent.
> It feels like trying to throw something that's too heavy while it's already being swung around. This is much different than the people that resisted your attempts at messing with their spirits back in the underground. You clearly have some control that's better than it's own, but you don't think it's something you can fully handle yet.
Aya:
> You glance over at Seki, only to find yourself flung backwards into the air by your wings, as if the chills and goosebumps from that hostility sent a shock through them.
> You quickly realize that there's a giant wolf attacking the two of you, now?!
> The statues and the blonde seem to notice this as well and are rushing towards you.
>_
-
Aya:
> "What the hell?!?"
> Bank left!
Seki:
> "Put it where you put my head!!"
> Once the wolf has landed from its own unexpected leap, try holding it still.
-
Aya:
> "What the hell?!?"
> Bank left!
Seki:
> "Put it where you put my head!!"
> Once the wolf has landed from its own unexpected leap, try holding it still.
Aya:
> You veer to the left. The wolf tries to follow you with it's gaze, but it seems stuck.
Seki:
> Though slow, you're gradually able to keep the wolf still. You can't tell if it's struggling against your efforts, but it's expression does imply such. Either it's too weak in that regard, or you're too strong compared to it.
> "Where did this come from?" The blonde questions. "I haven't seen something like this before."
> She appears to already have a bow drawn and trained on the wolf.
>_
-
Seki:
> "No clue!"
> Keep holding the wolf still.
Aya:
> "Wait, don't shoot yet!"
> Zip around behind the wolf, and deposit it into our chest from behind by sticking part of it in and then flying forward, gathering its body toward the entrance to our chest along the way as needed until we've stored all of it. (Do try to not get our hands bitten at the end!)
-
Seki:
> "No clue!"
> Keep holding the wolf still.
Aya:
> "Wait, don't shoot yet!"
> Zip around behind the wolf, and deposit it into our chest from behind by sticking part of it in and then flying forward, gathering its body toward the entrance to our chest along the way as needed until we've stored all of it. (Do try to not get our hands bitten at the end!)
Seki:
> You keep the wolf still while Aya moves.
Aya:
> You slide behind the wolf and scoop it up from it's tail and feet. Even at the end, it doesn't attempt to bite you. Or maybe it just doesn't know that such is an option? Or it could've been paralyzed from something.
> Either way, that definitely wasn't only a spirit anymore, judging by your difficult assets now.
> The blonde blinks... Seems like she'll say something... Then lowers her weapons.
> "Well, let us return to Lady Keiki and report of this." She turns on her heel, already starting to depart.
> Your sight's a bit obscured, but you think the soldiers are following her order.
>_
-
Aya:
> "We're coming with you, if you don't mind."
> Try taking to the air. If we're successful, follow along behind the blonde.
> "Thanks for the help, by the way. Who are you, if I may ask?"
Seki:
> If there are any non-humanoid spirits still loose in the area, control them and stuff them into Aya's body.
> Then follow along behind the blonde with our carriage in tow.
-
Aya:
> "We're coming with you, if you don't mind."
> Try taking to the air. If we're successful, follow along behind the blonde.
> "Thanks for the help, by the way. Who are you, if I may ask?"
Seki:
> If there are any non-humanoid spirits still loose in the area, control them and stuff them into Aya's body.
> Then follow along behind the blonde with our carriage in tow.
Aya:
> You struggle to get airborne again, but...
> Nope, your wings can't carry you anymore. You probably have the strength, but you can't add that to your wings' directly...
> The blonde stops and turns to introduce herself.
> "Mayumi Joutouguu. Lady Keiki's loyal subordinate and Lead of the Haniwa Army Corps."
> Well, at least she doesn't always ignore you.
Seki:
> There's no more beast spirits around here.
>_
-
Aya:
> "A pleasure, Miss Mayumi."
> Give Mayumi a nod.
> "Aya Shameimaru, ace tengu reporter, and something of a mode of transportation for others in recent times."
> Give a sheepish grin.
> "As, uh, I guess you have seen."
> Well, if we can't fly, land on our feet.
> Then rotate ourselves so our back is to the direction Mayumi was traveling, and behind walking backwards to follow along behind Mayumi, dragging our chest behind us. (Look over our shoulder so we can keep track of Mayumi and see where we're going.)
Seki:
> "...Sekibanki. I'm no one particularly special."
> If Aya is successful in her movement, look over at her.
> "...Hang onto this for me too, Aya."
> Direct our carriage so it comes up behind Aya and deposits itself into her chest.
> Then walk along beside her in following Mayumi.
-
Aya:
> "A pleasure, Miss Mayumi."
> Give Mayumi a nod.
> "Aya Shameimaru, ace tengu reporter, and something of a mode of transportation for others in recent times."
> Give a sheepish grin.
> "As, uh, I guess you have seen."
> Well, if we can't fly, land on our feet.
> Then rotate ourselves so our back is to the direction Mayumi was traveling, and behind walking backwards to follow along behind Mayumi, dragging our chest behind us. (Look over our shoulder so we can keep track of Mayumi and see where we're going.)
Seki:
> "...Sekibanki. I'm no one particularly special."
> If Aya is successful in her movement, look over at her.
> "...Hang onto this for me too, Aya."
> Direct our carriage so it comes up behind Aya and deposits itself into her chest.
> Then walk along beside her in following Mayumi.
Aya:
> "Ah, I thought I heard someone mention Lady Keiki. We'll lend you a hand if you want to see her."
> Mayumi and the statues quickly swarm you, though the girl alone heaves your chest up like it's nothing before the statues help spread the area of carry out and carry you as well.
Seki:
> ...
> Well, there goes introducing yourself...
>_
-
Aya:
> Does it feel like the wolf is struggling at all? We've felt activity in there in the past...
> "Oh, thanks! 'Preciate it."
> Let ourselves be carried along, then~
Seki:
> ...
> ...Well, we did say we're no one important...
> Follow along anyway while leading the carriage.
-
Aya:
> Does it feel like the wolf is struggling at all? We've felt activity in there in the past...
> "Oh, thanks! 'Preciate it."
> Let ourselves be carried along, then~
Seki:
> ...
> ...Well, we did say we're no one important...
> Follow along anyway while leading the carriage.
Aya:
> You don't notice if it is.
> As you're carried, you notice something stirring in the wind from afar, getting closer to where your group is.
Seki:
> You follow along, feeling like there's more spirits nearby, but it seems like Mayumi cleared the way beforehand...
> "Although you aren't humans, you two seem against the animal spirits, and that's enough of a help for us. Did you come down here to help Lady Keiki?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Did the wolf feel like a youkai, perhaps?
> What does the stirring in the distance feel like?
> "Honestly, I didn't really know that was going to be a whole thing. I came here to try to meet up with any notable figures, and check to see how they and this realm have been affected by the recent changes to Gensokyo and the moon. I definitely got a sense that a lot of this spirits saw me as prey, though. Anyway, Hecatia, who brought us here, did mention your Lady Keiki as one of several notable figures worth seeking out."
Seki:
> As we travel, control any nearby non-humanoid spirits we come across and stuff them into Aya's body.
> "I have a degree of control over spirits myself. We had previous placed the soul of one of Aya's subordinates within Aya's body, for...reasons that aren't worth going into here. She suggested I try with these spirits here, so I did. I have no idea where that giant wolf came from, though, because I sure didn't put anything like that inside her. As best, based on how the spirits have felt, I would theorize that the spirits combined themselves into a single spirit within her somehow, and became something more than a spirit in the process."
-
Aya:
> Did the wolf feel like a youkai, perhaps?
> What does the stirring in the distance feel like?
> "Honestly, I didn't really know that was going to be a whole thing. I came here to try to meet up with any notable figures, and check to see how they and this realm have been affected by the recent changes to Gensokyo and the moon. I definitely got a sense that a lot of this spirits saw me as prey, though. Anyway, Hecatia, who brought us here, did mention your Lady Keiki as one of several notable figures worth seeking out."
Seki:
> As we travel, control any nearby non-humanoid spirits we come across and stuff them into Aya's body.
> "I have a degree of control over spirits myself. We had previous placed the soul of one of Aya's subordinates within Aya's body, for...reasons that aren't worth going into here. She suggested I try with these spirits here, so I did. I have no idea where that giant wolf came from, though, because I sure didn't put anything like that inside her. As best, based on how the spirits have felt, I would theorize that the spirits combined themselves into a single spirit within her somehow, and became something more than a spirit in the process."
Seki:
> "Oh? So you can deal with those spirits quicker. We've already got an advantage over them, but having extra help makes mounting an offense more plausible."
Aya:
> You don't think so.
> Like something moving fast. An attack, maybe? It already seems like it's about to come into view.
> "Miss Hecatia herself, huh? Most of the notable figures out here are against each other. You'll have trouble if you plan on meeting all of them."
> "Barely missed her, huh?" You hear a voice, as someone comes crashing down ahead of your group.
> It's... you? No, not quite. The wings are notably different, and she has a tail too.
> "Guh, a big one's come out..." Mayumi sighs.
>_
-
Seki:
> Look back and forth between Aya and the newcomer.
Aya:
> Look the newcomer up and down with a curious look for a few moments.
> "...Huh. I didn't know another me lived here."
> Nod and give the newcomer a thumbs-up.
> "Mmm, I look good with a tail."
-
Seki:
> Look back and forth between Aya and the newcomer.
Aya:
> Look the newcomer up and down with a curious look for a few moments.
> "...Huh. I didn't know another me lived here."
> Nod and give the newcomer a thumbs-up.
> "Mmm, I look good with a tail."
Seki:
> You glance between the two... It's like long lost sisters. The attire is different, but the hair and even their looks are pretty similar. You wouldn't even put the newcomer as smaller than you remember Aya's size ever being. And aside from that, she's taller than the tengu.
Aya:
> It's almost like looking in a weird mirror. There's obvious differences, but if you were both wearing the same clothes, you're not sure anyone could tell you apart. Well, aside from your current sizes, and the tail.
> "What do we have here?" The woman questions. "You've made some new friends?
> "They're here to visit Lady-"
> "I heard what they're here for. Something about the Goddess of Hell. I thought I had a bunch of my underlings around here, but I guess you either wiped them out or proved your strength. I know blondie there would've taken longer to do that."
> "They keep running away from us, yet sneaking shots in when we aren't protecting the garden." Mayumi argues.
> "That's the Kiketsu folk then, not mine."
>_
-
Seki:
> What kinds of animals were mixed in amongst the spirits we've been gathering?
Aya:
> Gesture down at our chest.
> "Does the giant two-headed wolf in there belong to you, then, or someone else?"
-
Seki:
> What kinds of animals were mixed in amongst the spirits we've been gathering?
Aya:
> Gesture down at our chest.
> "Does the giant two-headed wolf in there belong to you, then, or someone else?"
Seki:
> Most of them were wolves, but you think there were some others. You think they were... What is it, ferrets? Seals? Too long to be rats...
Aya:
> "Giant two headed wolf?" The woman questions. "Well, if it's a wolf spirit down here, they're likely a part of my family then. Care showing me?"
> "We're busy. I don't want to keep Lady Keiki waiting on me or guests." Mayumi argues.
>_
-
Aya:
> Pull Banki's spare head out of our chest and show it off to the newcomer.
> "If you want, you could dive in there yourself and check while we travel."
> Store the head again, then gesture to where the newcomer can enter with both hands.
-
Aya:
> Pull Banki's spare head out of our chest and show it off to the newcomer.
> "If you want, you could dive in there yourself and check while we travel."
> Store the head again, then gesture to where the newcomer can enter with both hands.
Aya:
> You show, then stow Seki's extra head.
> "Hmm. If you're busy, I guess I can take the chance to catch up with the hell goddess before she gets too far. I'll be back here again anyways."
> "Perfect. Go and take your time." Mayumi says.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I'd love to talk more with you once you're done with Hecatia. What's your name, anyway? Given you've mentioned subordinates, I imagine you're on the list of people of interest Hecatia gave me."
-
Aya:
> "I'd love to talk more with you once you're done with Hecatia. What's your name, anyway? Given you've mentioned subordinates, I imagine you're on the list of people of interest Hecatia gave me."
Aya:
> "Saki, Saki Kurokoma." The woman introduces herself. "You won't find anyone quicker on their feet down here, so don't expect to be waiting long." The woman gestures a goodbye, as you see her dart off for where you entered here from.
>_
-
Aya:
> Look back at our carriers with a smile.
> "Oh, I like her. That name was definitely on our list, too."
Seki:
> "Er, sorry if it's going to cause problems that we're trying to get audiences with both you and someone you clearly don't like."
-
Aya:
> Look back at our carriers with a smile.
> "Oh, I like her. That name was definitely on our list, too."
Seki:
> "Er, sorry if it's going to cause problems that we're trying to get audiences with both you and someone you clearly don't like."
Seki:
> "I don't explicitly dislike her. We are on opposite sides of alliances though, and our troops are directly fighting each other." Mayumi continues. "I won't be mad if you seek out her or the other leaders after your meeting with Lady Keiki. You've already helped us out."
>_
-
Aya:
> Are our feet touching the ground?
> "Well, that's part of it. The thing is, Gensokyo's movers and shakers are more or less coming together in one group to determine what direction they want Gensokyo to go in given recent reality-altering happenings. Other realms have been affected too, like Higan, Bhavagra, Makai, and even the moon. So we came here to offer a metaphorical seat at the table to this realm, not realizing that the current political climate here...might make that difficult."
-
Aya:
> Are our feet touching the ground?
> "Well, that's part of it. The thing is, Gensokyo's movers and shakers are more or less coming together in one group to determine what direction they want Gensokyo to go in given recent reality-altering happenings. Other realms have been affected too, like Higan, Bhavagra, Makai, and even the moon. So we came here to offer a metaphorical seat at the table to this realm, not realizing that the current political climate here...might make that difficult."
Aya:
> No. The statues are carrying you entirely.
> "I think Lady Keiki might be too busy to attend something like that. We have seen a lot more humans wind up down here, though. I think all the animal spirits quickly decided to dwindle their numbers before they could even think of banding together."
> You're starting to see large buildings. Well, taller and thinner, rather than really wide.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Them she might send you instead. Or maybe she'll agree to one of those other names Hecatia mentioned. I think the other two were Yachie and Yuuma?"
-
Aya:
> "Them she might send you instead. Or maybe she'll agree to one of those other names Hecatia mentioned. I think the other two were Yachie and Yuuma?"
Aya:
> "They'd be busy with their groups too."
>_
-
Seki:
> "Has this realm gone unaffected, then?"
-
Seki:
> "Has this realm gone unaffected, then?"
Seki:
> "You'd have to ask one of the leaders about that. As far as I know, there just have been a lot more humans here than normally."
>_
-
Aya:
> "That sounds like what happened to Bhavagra and Higan."
Seki:
> "So no changes in anyone's ability to fly?"
-
Aya:
> "That sounds like what happened to Bhavagra and Higan."
Seki:
> "So no changes in anyone's ability to fly?"
Seki:
> "Fly? Ah, I don't think we can fly, no..."
> Though, it seems like you'll need to in order to get to the area ahead, given the body of water in the way.
>_
-
Seki:
> Is Aya still not in a physical position where we could store our carriage in her?
> "Were you able to before?"
Aya:
> How large is the upcoming body of water?
> Try flight again, just to see if we can at least levitate.
-
Seki:
> Is Aya still not in a physical position where we could store our carriage in her?
> "Were you able to before?"
Aya:
> How large is the upcoming body of water?
> Try flight again, just to see if we can at least levitate.
Seki:
> Not unless you could lift it up high enough.
> "Mhm."
Aya:
> It's a lake, but you think it might be less than Misty Lake. It's more like a river surrounding an island. Definitely looks dirtier than Misty Lake.
> You can see something approaching atop the water.
> You also feel like Saki's making her way here again.
>_
-
Aya:
> "So this place was affected. Good to know. Ah, it seems my other self returning, and that we have yet another guest up ahead."
Seki:
> Look out onto the water for whoever Aya is talking about.
-
Aya:
> "So this place was affected. Good to know. Ah, it seems my other self returning, and that we have yet another guest up ahead."
Seki:
> Look out onto the water for whoever Aya is talking about.
Aya:
> "It's our ship to get across."
Seki:
> It is as she said upon your observation: a ship drifting atop the water towards you.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, that works."
Seki:
> Does the boat look like it might be large enough for our carriage, Aya, and everyone else?
> Have we still been stuffing any animal spirts we've been coming along into Aya? If so, how do things feel within her?
> "Mm. Would you all mind lowering Aya to the ground for a moment?"
-
Aya:
> "Oh, that works."
Seki:
> Does the boat look like it might be large enough for our carriage, Aya, and everyone else?
> Have we still been stuffing any animal spirts we've been coming along into Aya? If so, how do things feel within her?
> "Mm. Would you all mind lowering Aya to the ground for a moment?"
Seki:
> Yes. It looks like it could hold a few of your carriages, even.
> They've been too far in avoidance ever since you started traveling with Mayumi.
> "After we get to Lady Keiki. I don't want to keep her waiting." Mayumi "agrees".
Aya:
> Your lookalike once again comes crashing by, this time her landing almost tips the ship nearby over.
> "Hey, I had a brilliant idea!" Saki speaks, not even mentioning her return or her trip yet. "I want a duel with you two!"
> "We don't have time for this Kurokoma. I told you were headed to Lady Keiki. And we're almost there, too."
> "If they win, I can bring them there faster than you wouldve." Saki boasts.
> "That's impossible." Mayumi argues.
> You can see a bunch more of those spirits approaching behind Saki. Are they done hiding?
>_
-
Aya:
> Look at our clone.
> "Weren't you going to check out that giant wolf no-longer-really-aspirit?"
Seki:
> How are the carriage and horses taking to being on the boat?
> If they seem to be struggling, say to Mayumi: "Can you at least lift up my carriage and put it in her, then?"
-
Aya:
> Look at our clone.
> "Weren't you going to check out that giant wolf no-longer-really-aspirit?"
Seki:
> How are the carriage and horses taking to being on the boat?
> If they seem to be struggling, say to Mayumi: "Can you at least lift up my carriage and put it in her, then?"
Seki:
> You haven't boarded yet. Ita not even close enough to do so unless you make a jump for it. Especially not thanks to Saki's return.
Aya:
> "I thought it'd be more interesting to have a fight instead, since you subdued it and a small chunk of my forces with just the two of you alone. Also, Hecatoa said you two would be able to take care of yourselves, even with the animal realm the way it is now." Saki reasons. "So you've gotta be strong."
>_
-
Seki:
> Keep a feel-track of those approaching spirits.
> "Uh, I don't know who told you I was strong, but they're mistaken."
Aya:
> Wink with a grin.
> "I'd be happy to spar with myself for a little bit if you want, once I'm no longer incapacitated by your giant wolf."
> Gesture down at our chest.
> "In the meantime, though, would you tell me about yourself? In all seriousness, our resemblances is uncanny, so I'd love to learn more about you. Mmm, next time I see Yukari, maybe I'll ask her to make me as tall as you are."
-
Seki:
> Keep a feel-track of those approaching spirits.
> "Uh, I don't know who told you I was strong, but they're mistaken."
Aya:
> Wink with a grin.
> "I'd be happy to spar with myself for a little bit if you want, once I'm no longer incapacitated by your giant wolf."
> Gesture down at our chest.
> "In the meantime, though, would you tell me about yourself? In all seriousness, our resemblances is uncanny, so I'd love to learn more about you. Mmm, next time I see Yukari, maybe I'll ask her to make me as tall as you are."
Seki:
> "Hecatia. I don't take her for much of a liar about that sort of thing, so you must be acting humble."
Aya:
> "If that wolf's the problem, I can just bring you to the Kiketsu head. I bet she'll be able to goad them out. Or even just get you to fight like you are now. In fact, if you excuse me..."
> "When did you even get tal-"
> Before Mayumi can finish her inquiry, Saki is already making a dash for you and her.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Huh? Hey, wait!"
> Try again to get airborne!
Seki:
> "Wah!"
> If we are able to consciously do so, unmake/unsummon our carriage.
> Then run over to Aya and jump into her chest to get away from this fight!
-
Aya:
> "Huh? Hey, wait!"
> Try again to get airborne!
Seki:
> "Wah!"
> If we are able to consciously do so, unmake/unsummon our carriage.
> Then run over to Aya and jump into her chest to get away from this fight!
Seki:
> You make for Aya, but the lookalike is too fast for you to even get close to Aya's chest before she...
> Ah... a dropkick?
Aya:
> You try to fly, but your wings just can't lift you up.
> Mayumi goes flying out from underneath your chest, alongside the statues carrying you, as Saki lands from knocking them away somehow, and hefts you up herself in place of them.
> "Not as heavy as I thought. Let's make haste then!" Saki steadies a bit, before making a run for it. This is kidnapping!
>_
-
Aya:
> How are we being held?
> Could we conceivably twist in place somehow so that the open portion of our chest is directly facing Saki?
> "Wait wait wait! Can't we talk about this, twin to twin?"
Seki:
> strawberries!
> If we unsummoned our carriage, resummon it.
> Dash over to Mayumi and help her up.
> "Hey, real quick! What's the full name of the person they're going to see?"
-
Aya:
> How are we being held?
> Could we conceivably twist in place somehow so that the open portion of our chest is directly facing Saki?
> "Wait wait wait! Can't we talk about this, twin to twin?"
Seki:
> strawberries!
> If we unsummoned our carriage, resummon it.
> Dash over to Mayumi and help her up.
> "Hey, real quick! What's the full name of the person they're going to see?"
Aya:
> By her shoulders and arms you think. You think her wings as well are supporting. Most seem to be attempting to help lean your chest towards you, while the rest are keeping your body in her hold. You could probably just roll out of this.
> Not without falling.
> "You said the wolf is the problem, but you'd be happy to fight otherwise. We'll get that settled in a moment, then."
Saki:
> You start for Mayumi, but the statues that weren't sent flying with her are already heading for her to help her. She has been knocked into the water, so you suppose there's a moment before she can even respond to you.
> You wonder if the statues can even swim or float... You don't want to have to dive into that dirty water yourself.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I also said you can just go in there yourself and check the wolf out!"
Seki:
> Awkwardly linger in place, ready to offer Mayumi a hand to help her up once she gets within reach.
-
Aya:
> "I also said you can just go in there yourself and check the wolf out!"
Seki:
> Awkwardly linger in place, ready to offer Mayumi a hand to help her up once she gets within reach.
Aya:
> "You also wanted to meet the others, right? I think this is a win-win for both of us. But remember I have dibs on the fight with you first. Not that I'm sure she'll even want to fight with you. Hey, you guys wanna clear the way?"
> You can see more beast spirits trying to get ahead of you and Saki, but they seem too slow to keep up...
> "Well, that's fine, just back us up if Kicchou's lackeys get in our way."
Seki:
> You hesitate to help out. No, you're just keeping watch, the spirits are leaving, but some could still attack you guys out of nowhere, yeah.
> The statues practically carry her out of the swamp, yet she doesn't seem bothered by her outfit being sludged like this.
> "Ugh, Lady Keiki's not going to be happy with this. I was blindsided." Mayumi complains. "I Gotta-"
> One of the statues puts a hand in front of Mayumi before she can try to run off, then gestures towards you.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Urgh, well, yes, in a professional sense, I want to meet everyone. But I didn't expect to find a twin here! I'm way more interested in that now! Can't we have some alone time first?"
---
Seki:
> "Hey! What's the full name of the person Saki's going after? I can get us there in a flash!"
-
Aya:
> "Urgh, well, yes, in a professional sense, I want to meet everyone. But I didn't expect to find a twin here! I'm way more interested in that now! Can't we have some alone time first?"
---
Seki:
> "Hey! What's the full name of the person Saki's going after? I can get us there in a flash!"
Aya:
> "Don't worry, I'll make sure we do in the fight. You can talk and fight, right? Well, either way, our actions will speak a lot too."
> There's a lot of other beast spirits here. Similar to the ones you saw when first arriving that weren't wolves.
Seki:
> "If it's the Kiketsu head, then I think it's Kicchou Yachie. But I'm pretty sure Saki's the fastest down here. We can't intercept her. We should just tell Lady Keiki that we have guests, but one of them is still on their way." Mayumi reasons. "Then chase after them if she gives the okay."
>_
-
Aya:
> "There are one-on-one things I enjoy doing that aren't exactly for polite company, you know!"
> If we stretched our arms below and behind us, could we reach the base of Saki's wings (where they attach to her back)? If so, reach for one such joint and give it some light scratches (with the intent of conferring pleasant feelings, not anything aggressive).
Seki:
> "There's more to travel than just speed."
> Offer a hand to Mayumi, while using our other hand to gesture toward our carriage.
> "Please trust me on this."
-
Aya:
> "There are one-on-one things I enjoy doing that aren't exactly for polite company, you know!"
> If we stretched our arms below and behind us, could we reach the base of Saki's wings (where they attach to her back)? If so, reach for one such joint and give it some light scratches (with the intent of conferring pleasant feelings, not anything aggressive).
Seki:
> "There's more to travel than just speed."
> Offer a hand to Mayumi, while using our other hand to gesture toward our carriage.
> "Please trust me on this."
Aya:
> "I'll get Yachie to get the wolf out, then give her the slip so we can."
> You believe so. Thus you make an attempt.
> You seem to come up a bit short. You can seemingly reach her wings, but not the base of them.
Seki:
> "But if I keep Lady Keiki waiting too long, she'll end up worrying about me."
>_
-
Aya:
> Use both our arms and hands to tickle her armpits, then.
---
Seki:
> "Then we'll go to her first. Get your soldiers on board the carriage. What's her full name?"
-
Aya:
> Use both our arms and hands to tickle her armpits, then.
---
Seki:
> "Then we'll go to her first. Get your soldiers on board the carriage. What's her full name?"
Aya:
> You reach down and move to tickle Saki, managing to get her to fumble you.
> "H-Hey, what gives?" She questions, shielding her arms by keeping them down as she skids to a half ahead of you. "Was I carrying you poorly?"
> The nearby non-wolf animal spirits immediately start to try and attack Saki, though she swats them back like they're flies.
Seki:
> "Lady- ahem, Keiki Haniyasushin." Mayumi answers, accepting your invitation, though getting on outside the carriage. "You guys head for Yachie's grounds ahead of time." She seems to order the statues.
>_
-
Aya:
> Get up to a standing position.
> "Sorry! I didn't want to do that, but you weren't stopping for anything..."
---
Seki:
> Nod at Mayumi.
> "Hold on tight!"
> Hop in the driver's seat.
> Say the name 'Keiki Haniyasushin' to get a bead on where this person is.
> Then drive the carriage to her!
-
Aya:
> Get up to a standing position.
> "Sorry! I didn't want to do that, but you weren't stopping for anything..."
---
Seki:
> Nod at Mayumi.
> "Hold on tight!"
> Hop in the driver's seat.
> Say the name 'Keiki Haniyasushin' to get a bead on where this person is.
> Then drive the carriage to her!
Aya:
> You struggle to your feet, but manage.
> "Well, you could've said to stop for a moment. What's up? We were right there, you know." Saki gestures, before kicking one of the nearby spirits attempting a sneak attack on her into oblivion. The others start to heavily hesitate to approach like before.
Seki:
> You board your cart and start for Keiki.
> In seconds, Mayumi leaps off just as you arrive, kneeling in front of someone.
> "Sorry for being so late Lady Keiki! There was a large group of animal spirits surrounding two guests that wanted to see you and-"
> "Welcome back Mayumi." The woman speaks. "I actually didn't expect you to return this fact. Good job."
> "Thank you, Lady Keiki!"
> The woman, you believe Keiki, appears to have a strange color in blue hair. She's also wearing a yellow dress, but it looks more like a dress than Mayumi's outfit.
> You appear to be indoors.
>_
-
Aya:
> Take out our hauchiwa fan and use it to blow away the closest group of spirits, then put it back.
> Look back to Saki.
> "That was supposed to be implied by 'one-on-one things that aren't for polite company'. If that wasn't understood, though, then I apologize for not being clearer."
> "Look. I like you a lot already, and I certainly wouldn't mind a sparring session. But...I'd like to at least enjoy this for a bit before that, if that makes sense."
> Smile a bit.
> "And get to know you better in the meantime. In whatever ways that takes place."
---
Seki:
> "Um. Hello."
> Get out from our carriage and give this woman a bow.
> "My name is Sekibanki. I come from Gensokyo, more or less on a mission to find how adjacent realms have been affected by recent shifts in reality. I gather this realm has already been noticeably affected, given your retainer mentioned that flight was previously possible but is no longer."
> Look back at our carriage, then around at the room, then back at the woman.
> "Uh, sorry for parking my vehicle indoors without permission."
-
Aya:
> Take out our hauchiwa fan and use it to blow away the closest group of spirits, then put it back.
> Look back to Saki.
> "That was supposed to be implied by 'one-on-one things that aren't for polite company'. If that wasn't understood, though, then I apologize for not being clearer."
> "Look. I like you a lot already, and I certainly wouldn't mind a sparring session. But...I'd like to at least enjoy this for a bit before that, if that makes sense."
> Smile a bit.
> "And get to know you better in the meantime. In whatever ways that takes place."
---
Seki:
> "Um. Hello."
> Get out from our carriage and give this woman a bow.
> "My name is Sekibanki. I come from Gensokyo, more or less on a mission to find how adjacent realms have been affected by recent shifts in reality. I gather this realm has already been noticeably affected, given your retainer mentioned that flight was previously possible but is no longer."
> Look back at our carriage, then around at the room, then back at the woman.
> "Uh, sorry for parking my vehicle indoors without permission."
Aya:
> You blow away the nearby spirits before addressing Saki.
> "Oh. Like some formalities before the match. Alright, I guess... but we are in enemy lines now." Saki scratches her head under her hat.
> "Oh great, there's two of her now. And one of them is a cow." You hear a new voice, as another Humanoid person starts to approach.
> "Ah, I should've known that was a small group for your weasels. Of course most of them went to cry to you for help." Saki turns to address the newcomer.
> "You should've known by my troops being out there that I wasn't afraid of challenging you. Are you still so confident in victory that you'd charge right into my territory while knowing such? Or, are you stupid enough to think this cow can help you?"
> Saki is giving off a heavy air of bravado, which seems to be cutting at the newcomer's gaze. You feel like if this new girl glared at you, you'd be pressed down as if an Oni were trying to restrain you. You haven't even felt it directly yet...
> Maybe this is a chance to sneak away. Then again, your body doesn't seem suited for sneaking right now.
Seki:
> You introduce yourself, finally being properly received instead of interrupted or ignored.
> "It's alright. Thank you for visiting, and for being concerned with this realm." Keiki says. "My name is Keiki Haniyasushin, I suppose you could call me a goddess of idols. There has been some strangeness down here- notably with the large increase in humans and human spirits suddenly appearing. It's been a challenge saving them from the animal spirits, but providing them sanctuary has been a more reliable task."
>_
-
Aya:
> We could, but...we're on a mission here...
> "H-Hey, I'm not-"
> Blink.
> "Wait, 'your troops'? You wouldn't happen to be one of Yachie or Yuuma that Hecatia Lapislazuli told me about, would you?"
---
Seki:
> Nod.
> "My tengu companion mentioned that there were an abnormal number of humans in other realms she had visited. Bhavagra and Higan, I think were the places she named. In regards to that, from what I understand, she has helped organize something of a large council of major figures all around Gensokyo, with the intent of banding together and deciding what our land's future should be, whether to accept the recent reality alterations or to fight back and try to undo them. She has come to the Animal Realm to see if it wants to send a representative to have a seat at that metaphorical table."
> Frown a bit.
> "That being said, even in my short time here, I've gathered that the four major names the hell goddess gave us to look into all seem to dislike each other, to the point of army combat apparently being the norm, so I have no idea how any of that tengu's ideas are going to work out."
-
Aya:
> We could, but...we're on a mission here...
> "H-Hey, I'm not-"
> Blink.
> "Wait, 'your troops'? You wouldn't happen to be one of Yachie or Yuuma that Hecatia Lapislazuli told me about, would you?"
---
Seki:
> Nod.
> "My tengu companion mentioned that there were an abnormal number of humans in other realms she had visited. Bhavagra and Higan, I think were the places she named. In regards to that, from what I understand, she has helped organize something of a large council of major figures all around Gensokyo, with the intent of banding together and deciding what our land's future should be, whether to accept the recent reality alterations or to fight back and try to undo them. She has come to the Animal Realm to see if it wants to send a representative to have a seat at that metaphorical table."
> Frown a bit.
> "That being said, even in my short time here, I've gathered that the four major names the hell goddess gave us to look into all seem to dislike each other, to the point of army combat apparently being the norm, so I have no idea how any of that tengu's ideas are going to work out."
Aya:
> "Ah, someone sent by Hecatia?" The woman looks over, stepping more into view past Saki.
> It's still a lot of pressure facing her dead on, but it feels like it's eased up. She has a large, thick tail, not of the fluffy variant you're used to - and even horns. "Then what are you here for, to suggest some crazy thing to follow like how we should all try to get fatter?" She questions.
> "H-... Well, I guess she does have some weirdness to her, that goddess..." Saki rescinds her objection.
Seki:
> "Hm... If any of us were there, we'd probably just try to make things harder for the others down here. You probably don't want to mention such a thing to those big shots. It's best to let this place go about it's days as it normally does. I've secured forces strong enough to protect anyone within the improved Primate Spirit Garden. The only issue would be the humans outside of here, but I'm sure I'll come up with a good solution soon enough." Keiki assures.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, uh, no. I'm simply a cow teng-crow tengu from Gensokyo. I'm sure you've noticed some general weirdness in reality recently, like how some people that could fly before can't anymore, and how there a lot more humans than before? That's being felt everywhere. Gensokyo has put together a council of some of its most notable and prominent residents to determine how they want to move forward from this shake-up in reality, specifically whether they want to try to live with the new normal, or try to combat it and undo it. Given surrounding realms have also been affected, like Bhavagra, Higan, and even the Lunar Capital, any decisions Gensokyo would make could affect those realms in turn. I came here looking to see if the Animal Realm wished to have a representative at this council, to speak on behalf of all its residents and ask the other decision-makers to take this realm's unique concerns into account. My, uh...current appearance is not the usual, and only happened after I got here, when I was with companion of mine that has a degree of control over spirits and souls."
---
Seki:
> "I see...um, that maaaaay be a problem, then. See, the tengu I mentioned kinda got abducted by one of those major names, and I think she's taking her to see another one."
-
Aya:
> "Oh, uh, no. I'm simply a cow teng-crow tengu from Gensokyo. I'm sure you've noticed some general weirdness in reality recently, like how some people that could fly before can't anymore, and how there a lot more humans than before? That's being felt everywhere. Gensokyo has put together a council of some of its most notable and prominent residents to determine how they want to move forward from this shake-up in reality, specifically whether they want to try to live with the new normal, or try to combat it and undo it. Given surrounding realms have also been affected, like Bhavagra, Higan, and even the Lunar Capital, any decisions Gensokyo would make could affect those realms in turn. I came here looking to see if the Animal Realm wished to have a representative at this council, to speak on behalf of all its residents and ask the other decision-makers to take this realm's unique concerns into account. My, uh...current appearance is not the usual, and only happened after I got here, when I was with companion of mine that has a degree of control over spirits and souls."
---
Seki:
> "I see...um, that maaaaay be a problem, then. See, the tengu I mentioned kinda got abducted by one of those major names, and I think she's taking her to see another one."
Aya:
> "Oh, Gensokyo again huh? And someone that can control spirits and souls? Why don't we chat-"
> "Nuh uh! I brough her here to get a quick favor from you, then a fight. You're not dealing anything with her until then." Saki argues.
Seki:
> "Oh. We should hurry and stop them from blabbering then. Your tengu friend might also end up in the crossfire of an intense fight, too." Keiki warns.
>_
-
Aya:
> Look back and forth between the two of them, then crack a little smile.
> "Ladies, please, there is more than enough of me to go around for both of you."
---
Seki:
> "I can take both of you there right now if you hop in my carriage. Or on, apparently, as Mayumi just demonstrated to me was possible."
-
Aya:
> Look back and forth between the two of them, then crack a little smile.
> "Ladies, please, there is more than enough of me to go around for both of you."
---
Seki:
> "I can take both of you there right now if you hop in my carriage. Or on, apparently, as Mayumi just demonstrated to me was possible."
Aya:
> "And what's this favor supposed to be?"
> "Something about a two headed wolf inside her." Saki gestures. "You gotta bring it out."
> "And why would I?"
> They're ignoring you...
Seki:
> "Mayumi, you go along to make sure she's safe."
>_
-
Aya:
> "The option's still on the table for both of you to go in there and check it out..."
---
Seki:
> Look to Mayumi.
> "Ready?"
-
Aya:
> "The option's still on the table for both of you to go in there and check it out..."
---
Seki:
> Look to Mayumi.
> "Ready?"
Aya:
> "Because she can't fight well like this she claims."
> "That's your problem, not mine. Too bad."
> "How about this, you do this for me, and I won't break your leg?"
> The other woman seems to hesitate.
> "Why can't you do it yourself?"
> "My guys keep saying not to fall for it. I don't expect it to be a trap, but I don't want to make them cause a scene." Saki explains.
> "Clearly it is a trap. You're the idiot of us. Otherwise, she would've asked one of your lackeys instead of the boss herself."
Seki:
> Mayumi is already boarding the interior without your permission. You suppose her Boss's is enough for her.
>_
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit at Saki.
> "Please don't threaten to break that cutie's leg until after I'm gone and don't have the opportunity to shoot any more shots with her."
> "Anyway, I haven't asked them because I didn't know I could, but also, they're not corporeal. If they think it's a trap, it's probably because that spirit-controlling companion of mine shoved a whole bunch of 'em into my body the more spiritual way rather than the physical way. That being said, she's not even here right now."
Seki:
> Hop in the driver's seat.
> Say 'Kicchou Yachie' out loud to get an idea of where she is.
> Then book it to that location!
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit at Saki.
> "Please don't threaten to break that cutie's leg until after I'm gone and don't have the opportunity to shoot any more shots with her."
> "Anyway, I haven't asked them because I didn't know I could, but also, they're not corporeal. If they think it's a trap, it's probably because that spirit-controlling companion of mine shoved a whole bunch of 'em into my body the more spiritual way rather than the physical way. That being said, she's not even here right now."
Seki:
> Hop in the driver's seat.
> Say 'Kicchou Yachie' out loud to get an idea of where she is.
> Then book it to that location!
Seki:
> You call out Yachie's name and start for her, arriving just as quickly as you did to Keiki's place.
> Saki's here, and Aya too. Must mean the 3rd person is Yachie.
Aya:
> "This her?" Saki questions, the two finally seemingly listening to you.
> "This is too many intruders. All of you, prostrate yourselves before me. I'll deal with you case by case." The green tailed girl demands, and you feel no reason to decline.
> If not for your growing exasperation at things not going your way, you probably wouldn't have just barely managed to stop your hand from reaching into retrieve the wolf and allow your body to grovel as requested...
Seki:
> Saki stands her ground after a moment of physical hesitation, but she seems annoyed at this Yachie person.
> Mayumi, however, finds herself jumping out of the cart and kneeling, gritting her teeth.
> "L-Lady Keiki, I'm only doing this to avoid a senseless confrontation with them! This is still under your orders to keep our guests safe." Mayumi reasons.
> You suppose whatever ability or trick this Yachie person is doing to try and make Saki and Mayumi follow her orders isn't working on you. Or maybe she didn't try at all. Are you not considered worth her time?
>_
-
Seki:
> Can we see Aya? If so, what is she doing?
> Can we sense/feel/whatever the spirits of Saki and this Yachie person?
-
Seki:
> Can we see Aya? If so, what is she doing?
> Can we sense/feel/whatever the spirits of Saki and this Yachie person?
Seki:
> You can see her chest, you suppose...
> Yes. They're seem fiercely strong. You suppose this is a different enough place from Gensokyo...
>_
-
Aya:
> Oh, c'mon, girl, no one tells you what to do! Not even Boss!
> Though she is pretty cute, with those horns, and that tail, and-
> Guh, but everyone here is being so *annoying*! Maybe we should release the wolf anyway and let it attack them all! That'll show-
> No, stop it. Stop it! Keep calm. We fluster others, they don't fluster us. Controlled breathing. No senseless aggression.
> We're a free spirit. Being forced into servitude is enough of a reason to resist. Keep your focus, wind god girl.
> "...Don't...really appreciate being ordered what to do..."
Seki:
> Hop out of the cart, looking at Aya with a curious concerned look as she speaks.
> Then look to Saki and Mayumi.
> Then look to Yachie with an annoyed look.
> "So, what, you're not even gonna bother trying whatever this is with me? Am I not worth your notice?"
-
Aya:
> Oh, c'mon, girl, no one tells you what to do! Not even Boss!
> Though she is pretty cute, with those horns, and that tail, and-
> Guh, but everyone here is being so *annoying*! Maybe we should release the wolf anyway and let it attack them all! That'll show-
> No, stop it. Stop it! Keep calm. We fluster others, they don't fluster us. Controlled breathing. No senseless aggression.
> We're a free spirit. Being forced into servitude is enough of a reason to resist. Keep your focus, wind god girl.
> "...Don't...really appreciate being ordered what to do..."
Seki:
> Hop out of the cart, looking at Aya with a curious concerned look as she speaks.
> Then look to Saki and Mayumi.
> Then look to Yachie with an annoyed look.
> "So, what, you're not even gonna bother trying whatever this is with me? Am I not worth your notice?"
Aya:
> "Hm. If you follow the rest of my orders, maybe I'll accompany you for a bit. Maybe."
> T-That's reason enough for you. Perfect, everything's settled down here then!
Seki:
> You disembark.
> "...Go get back on your ride and get out of here."
> She seems like she's trying to be convincing, but you really don't see why you should listen to her. It doesn't seem like a threat either.
> "Is there anything I should do?" Aya blurts out.
>_
-
Seki:
> ...Okay, something weird is definitely going on here. Even Saki appeared to have some degree of trouble with it.
> ...And if Aya and Mayumi can't help themselves, this could go south real fast.
> Attempt to yank Yachie's spirit clear out of her body, floating in the air above it.
-
Seki:
> ...Okay, something weird is definitely going on here. Even Saki appeared to have some degree of trouble with it.
> ...And if Aya and Mayumi can't help themselves, this could go south real fast.
> Attempt to yank Yachie's spirit clear out of her body, floating in the air above it.
Seki:
> You try to pull Yachie's spirit from her body, though your tug is met with heavy resistance as soon as you start.
> You put more effort into-
> Yachie suddenly lunges for you. Though, Saki tackles her down.
> "You're a lot more worked up now, huh? What's the problem?" Saki questions.
> "This one's a real threat to all of us. Get off of me and stay out of my way." Yachie argues.
> "Make me." Saki glares down at Yachie.
> Though Yachie's words were pretty impactful against the other three that aren't you, Saki's actions seem to speak louder than them, as the progress (or lack thereof) of Yachie's struggles makes this seems one sided.
>_
-
Seki:
> Look down impassively at Yachie on the ground.
> "You got the tengu acting weird in the head without lifting a finger. I'm not the threat here."
Aya:
> ...How are we feeling now?"
-
Seki:
> Look down impassively at Yachie on the ground.
> "You got the tengu acting weird in the head without lifting a finger. I'm not the threat here."
Aya:
> ...How are we feeling now?"
Seki:
> "That's just how I do things. Hell is a cruel world. Hey, Tengu, won't you lend me a hand here? Get Saki off me."
Aya:
> You're fine. You might still be able to get a chat with that third person, Yuuma you think, on top of getting Yachie for the road! You just need to earn her favor a bit more. Moving's not as easy, but you are the Wind God Girl, so a gust should be doable.
> You send a toppling gust of wind Saki's way, though she barely budges, one foot firmly rooted to the ground, and the other atop Yachie. Guess you need a bit more.
> "Hey, what about that private chat thing? I'm not gonna agree to it if you keep siding with Yachie here."
> You can get her to come back around to it later. Losing the shot with Yachie feels like it'd be worse. You ready your fan...
>_
-
Seki:
> Ugh, nothing for it.
> Yank Aya's spirit clear out of her body, floating in the air above it, like that one time we played music underground.
> If the above is successful, look back to Yachie with the impassive expression morphing to annoyance.
> "Guess you're right. Hell is a cruel world."
> Tapping into our rage reservoir to help loosen it up as we were able to do before, begin yanking harder on Yachie's spirit to pull it out of her body.
-
Seki:
> Ugh, nothing for it.
> Yank Aya's spirit clear out of her body, floating in the air above it, like that one time we played music underground.
> If the above is successful, look back to Yachie with the impassive expression morphing to annoyance.
> "Guess you're right. Hell is a cruel world."
> Tapping into our rage reservoir to help loosen it up as we were able to do before, begin yanking harder on Yachie's spirit to pull it out of her body.
Seki:
> You pull out Aya's spirit instead, leaving her winded and down.
> With Aya pacified, you focus your efforts on Yachie.
> "You wouldn't know the half of it. Kurokoma, Mayumi-"
> You quickly try to pull out Yachie's spirit before she can finish whatever efforts she was going to make, finding it a bit easier than before, alongside your extra effort.
> You almost feel like her spirit glances at you with a smirk.
> Seeing Yachie's pacified, Saki gets off of her. Mayumi gets up as well.
>_
-
Seki:
> Keeping Yachie's spirit at bay, stuff Aya's spirit back into her body.
> "Wake up, cow tengu. We're done here."
-
Seki:
> Keeping Yachie's spirit at bay, stuff Aya's spirit back into her body.
> "Wake up, cow tengu. We're done here."
Seki:
> You stuff Aya's spirit back in.
> "You'll hurt yourself if you go on through Hell like this..." Mayumi speaks, as you feel someone grab hold of you. "Lady Keiki wanted me to make sure you're safe."
Aya:
> That... Wasn't a... terrible experience?
> "Don't think that's enough yet, missy." You hear Saki, as she lifts and dusts off Yachie. Er, Yachie's, body, given her spirit appears to be outside of it. Though, it doesn't look like it will be for long. "If she antagonizes others, they might hurt her before long. Let's incapacitate her for her safety, then I'll get my end of the deal."
> Deal? What deal?
>_
-
Aya:
> ...She isn't talking about our volunteering ourselves for a sparring session, is she?
-
Aya:
> ...She isn't talking about our volunteering ourselves for a sparring session, is she?
Aya:
> You're not sure.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Huh? Deal?"
Seki:
> Are we feeling any resistance from Yachie's spirit?
> Look back at who's grabbing us.
-
Aya:
> "Huh? Deal?"
Seki:
> Are we feeling any resistance from Yachie's spirit?
> Look back at who's grabbing us.
Seki:
> A bit. Enough to keep her in place, strangely.
> You look back, finding Mayumi has locked your arms in her grasp, while Saki has pushed Yachie's body back into her... er, spirit into her body the reverse way.
> "Ah that's a weird feeling. Okay Kurokoma, don't kill her." Yachie rubs her eye, gesturing over for... something, or someone. "Wish I could've done this long ago. This feels good."
> You see Saki seemingly taking the order, walking around your side after letting Yachie go. Getting to your front for something?
Aya:
> "Kicchou struck a decent bargain. I help her with something small, and she'll do that favor I asked earlier."
> "Go on then, stop all of us." The tailed girl suggests. "I'd love to see you try, now. That statue's not really spirited like us. Hmhmhm."
> Even though it looks like Saki's about to do something to Seki, you don't feel like you should intervene...
>_
-
Seki:
> Oh, strawberries, this isn't good.
> Where is our carriage relative to Aya, Yachie, and Saki?
-
Seki:
> Oh, strawberries, this isn't good.
> Where is our carriage relative to Aya, Yachie, and Saki?
Seki:
> Off to the side. Even Aya without all that weight would at least be noticed if she tried to make a break for it. Though, with her speed without that weight, she wouldn't be stopped. At least, she shouldn't, you don't know if Yachie's still doing that thing to her.
> Saki is in front of you, getting further away. Yachi is behind you, behind Mayumi. Aya is ahead of you.
>_
-
Seki:
> Saki is moving away from us? What does she appear to be doing?
> What are the known properties of us blowing fire out of our neck hole on our torso when our head is off?
-
Seki:
> Saki is moving away from us? What does she appear to be doing?
> What are the known properties of us blowing fire out of our neck hole on our torso when our head is off?
Seki:
> Gaining distance for something?
> It doesn't burn you; you suppose...
>_
-
Seki:
> Can we twist our head around 180 degrees while it's still on our shoulders, or do we need to pop it off to do that?
-
Seki:
> Can we twist our head around 180 degrees while it's still on our shoulders, or do we need to pop it off to do that?
Seki:
> You haven't tried before. It'll probably come off amidst trying.
>_
-
Seki:
> Would it probably at least stay on our shoulders after coming off, in the divot of our collar if nothing else? Or would it fall to the ground?
-
Seki:
> Would it probably at least stay on our shoulders after coming off, in the divot of our collar if nothing else? Or would it fall to the ground?
Seki:
> Yes to the first. You should also be able to make it stay close to your shoulders through controlling it.
>_
-
Seki:
> Have we shown we're able to control our carriage without being actually in the driver's seat, by, like giving the horses commands to move simply through sheer will?
-
Seki:
> Have we shown we're able to control our carriage without being actually in the driver's seat, by, like giving the horses commands to move simply through sheer will?
Seki
> You think you recall such. With maybe their first appearance out of nowhere for you.
>_
-
Seki:
> Okay, here goes everything.
> Let out a panicked "Uh..."
> Prepare some saliva in our mouth while watching Saki back up, waiting for her to get to a point where she stops. Make a note of when she stops and faces us, or when five seconds have passed, whichever comes first.
-
Seki:
> Okay, here goes everything.
> Let out a panicked "Uh..."
> Prepare some saliva in our mouth while watching Saki back up, waiting for her to get to a point where she stops. Make a note of when she stops and faces us, or when five seconds have passed, whichever comes first.
Seki:
> You gather saliva in your mouth, keeping an eye on Saki.
> She stops and turns to face you. It gives you a bit of chills...
>_
-
Seki:
> Will our horses, with the carriage, to dash straight at Saki!
> At the same time, twist our head fully around (controlling it to keep it upright and on our shoulders if needed) so we're facing Mayumi, and spit into her right eye!
-
Seki:
> Will our horses, with the carriage, to dash straight at Saki!
> At the same time, twist our head fully around (controlling it to keep it upright and on our shoulders if needed) so we're facing Mayumi, and spit into her right eye!
Seki:
> You try to will, and your horses follow the command, leading the carriage for Saki.
> You also turn around to face Mayumi and spit in her eye.
> This... does absolutely nothing to her. She doesn't even blink... You almost see her eye twinkle.
> "I won't be deterred in Lady Keiki's orders." She responds. "Don't worry!"
> You hear a crash from Saki's position, then footsteps, picking up quickly and getting closer.
Aya:
> You watch Seki's horses charge straight for Saki, only for your lookalike to barrel straight through them as she charges for Sekibanki in turn.
>_
-
Aya:
> Ooh, that's unfortunate. Wonder how we're getting anywhere now?
Seki:
> Turn back around to get a gauge on where Saki is.
> If Aya is still closer to us than Saki, then yank the giant wolf spirit out of Aya and fling it into Saki.
-
Aya:
> Ooh, that's unfortunate. Wonder how we're getting anywhere now?
Seki:
> Turn back around to get a gauge on where Saki is.
> If Aya is still closer to us than Saki, then yank the giant wolf spirit out of Aya and fling it into Saki.
Aya:
> You ponder if you can have Yachie help her back up afterwards. You would like a fast ride, given your current state.
Seki:
> You turn back around, finding Saki starting to leap.
> You quickly try to pull the giant wolf out of Aya. It's corporeal, so this is just hopeful...
> Thankfully, it seems to be enough of a spirit to phase out from Aya. Though this doesn't stop-
> ...
> Does it? You can't see Saki since it's blocking her way, but the wolf didn't get hit yet...
Aya:
> Oh... There goes your new size. The two headed wolf looks content, though it takes on surprise after a second, and looks around.
> Saki looks like she's going to dropkick someone again, but stops herself with her wings upon almost sending the giant wolf to Hell 2.
> "Huh?" Saki questions.
> "Huh? Who?" Yachie questions, sitting on a couple other animal spirits as they float above the ground.
>_
-
Aya:
> ...Are we not supposed to interfere with anything and anyone, or are we only supposed to not interfere with Seki?
-
Aya:
> ...Are we not supposed to interfere with anything and anyone, or are we only supposed to not interfere with Seki?
Aya:
> Well, the thing seems to be over now. You suppose it resolved itself one way or another without you doing anything.
>_
-
Aya:
> Freedom! ...Of movement!
> How does the cart look?
> ...Wait, why is Mayumi holding Banki in place, again? Wasn't she enemies with Saki, at least?
-
Aya:
> Freedom! ...Of movement!
> How does the cart look?
> ...Wait, why is Mayumi holding Banki in place, again? Wasn't she enemies with Saki, at least?
Aya:
> It's still intact. The horses are getting back up.
> You think so? She wasn't attacking her before, but she wasn't really being nice either.
>_
-
Aya:
> There was definite sniping and arguing back and forth at times. And Mayumi was being nice to us - why would she be doing this now, when she claimed to be following Keiki's orders to keep us safe? We've seen how strong and fast Saki is - if she had drop kicked Banki, that would have ended really poorly.
> Come to think of it, why was Saki doing that in the first place? She's seemed perfectly reasonable up to this point, and certainly didn't seem aggressive toward Banki before. She mentioned a deal with Yachie...was kicking Banki the exchange for trying to pull that wolf out of our chest?
> Wait - the wolf's out now! It's not aggressive yet, but it's out all the same! That-
> -means their deal is off, isn't it?
-
Aya:
> There was definite sniping and arguing back and forth at times. And Mayumi was being nice to us - why would she be doing this now, when she claimed to be following Keiki's orders to keep us safe? We've seen how strong and fast Saki is - if she had drop kicked Banki, that would have ended really poorly.
> Come to think of it, why was Saki doing that in the first place? She's seemed perfectly reasonable up to this point, and certainly didn't seem aggressive toward Banki before. She mentioned a deal with Yachie...was kicking Banki the exchange for trying to pull that wolf out of our chest?
> Wait - the wolf's out now! It's not aggressive yet, but it's out all the same! That-
> -means their deal is off, isn't it?
Aya:
> You'd believe so. Saki shouldn't have reason to deal with Yachie anymore?
>_
-
Aya:
> Hmm. Given the situation, with all this weirdness, and us being okay with watching Banki get kicked into the afterlife which is EXTRA weird in retrospect, and that wolf being right bloody there, it...might behoove us to not call attention to ourselves.
> Saki's got wings, so might as well try! Give her a wind order to tell Yachie that, now that the wolf's free, the deal is off.
-
Aya:
> Hmm. Given the situation, with all this weirdness, and us being okay with watching Banki get kicked into the afterlife which is EXTRA weird in retrospect, and that wolf being right bloody there, it...might behoove us to not call attention to ourselves.
> Saki's got wings, so might as well try! Give her a wind order to tell Yachie that, now that the wolf's free, the deal is off.
Aya:
> You try to give an order to yourself. ...Well, not yourself, but the lookalike.
> "Is this that wolf you mentioned? It's certainly not one of my guys. Well, it's not one I know."
> "Boss, we don't know how, but-" "It was comfortable." The two heads speak.
> "Uh huh..." Saki looks over at you, then at the tailed girl. "I guess we don't need your help anymore."
> "You should still help me with my favor. I did prove I was stronger than you." Yachie argues.
> "Tch. I guess you have a point. After my fight, then, I'll think about it."
>_
-
Aya:
> That wolf - liked it in there? That's-wait no no no more important things.
> "Hey, whoa, hold up! Why are you three trying to kick Banki into next week? There's no way she'd survive that. Especially you, Mayumi. Were you planning to backstab her the whole time?"
> While speaking, walk up next to the wolf and gently pet its side.
Seki:
> Eye twitch. She's not wrong, but she doesn't need to say it! Especially not in this situation!
-
Aya:
> That wolf - liked it in there? That's-wait no no no more important things.
> "Hey, whoa, hold up! Why are you three trying to kick Banki into next week? There's no way she'd survive that. Especially you, Mayumi. Were you planning to backstab her the whole time?"
> While speaking, walk up next to the wolf and gently pet its side.
Seki:
> Eye twitch. She's not wrong, but she doesn't need to say it! Especially not in this situation!
Aya:
> "I was gonna hold back." Saki shrugs. " Not kill her or anything."
> "I'm following Lady Keiki's orders and keeping her safe, even if it's from herself." Mayumi tightens the grip a bit in emphasis.
> You... suppose you missed meeting Keiki at some point during your kidnapping.
> "I mean, if she could control this big wolf spirit, then she would probably get into bigger trouble. Especially if she tried such against one of us bosses." Saki explains. "The Animal Realm is no joke. Everything up in Gensokyo seemed really soft, aside from a couple people."
> "Lady Keiki would turn her into an idol in a heartbeat." Mayumi agrees.
> "Ugh, I don't want to imagine Yuuma getting a taste of her. That's why I want to get rid of her now." Yachie explains.
>_
-
Seki:
> "I literally said we were leaving! You'd be 100% rid of me once I left!"
Aya:
> Does the wolf seem to be reacting to our pettings at all?
> Frown at Saki.
> "You sure didn't look like you were holding back when you ran her cart over."
> "Look, as lovely as the three of you are, especially since one of you is literally just me, I think at this point that coming here was probably unnecessary for my mission. I'd be perfectly happy to get out of your collective hair and let you get back to whatever you were doing before we arrived."
-
Seki:
> "I literally said we were leaving! You'd be 100% rid of me once I left!"
Aya:
> Does the wolf seem to be reacting to our pettings at all?
> Frown at Saki.
> "You sure didn't look like you were holding back when you ran her cart over."
> "Look, as lovely as the three of you are, especially since one of you is literally just me, I think at this point that coming here was probably unnecessary for my mission. I'd be perfectly happy to get out of your collective hair and let you get back to whatever you were doing before we arrived."
Seki:
> "I didn't want to take the chance." Yachie says.
Aya:
> It still seems discintent.
> "Well those horses looked like they were challenging me. And I went lightly, I think. Look, everything lines up for our fight now, no more interruptions or delays."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, right, that."
> Look to Saki.
> "Hey, if I win, can I keep this big friend here as a pet? Wouldn't want to deny them the comfortable place they were enjoying so much."
Seki:
> "Well, you've properly demonstrated that I'm not remotely a threat to you and that you can easily annihilate me with your mind control stuff, so can I leave now?"
Aya:
> Blink.
> "Wait, mind control?!"
-
Aya:
> "Oh, right, that."
> Look to Saki.
> "Hey, if I win, can I keep this big friend here as a pet? Wouldn't want to deny them the comfortable place they were enjoying so much."
Seki:
> "Well, you've properly demonstrated that I'm not remotely a threat to you and that you can easily annihilate me with your mind control stuff, so can I leave now?"
Aya:
> Blink.
> "Wait, mind control?!"
Seki:
> "It isn't mind control. I'm just good at convincing others." Yachie corrects. "Given that soul stuff you did, I assume I was trying to be convincing to someone that only follows the rules of death or something. You're still dangerous, but I feel this run allowed me to gauge what I can do. Subduing the other gangs should be easy. You can go."
Aya:
> "We're betting now? What do I get if I win, then?" Saki questions. "Hm, how about you agree to help me take out Yachie and the other bosses?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "...Er...I was kinda intending to be impartial here..."
---
Seki:
> "Great, thanks."
> Look at Mayumi expectantly.
-
Aya:
> "...Er...I was kinda intending to be impartial here..."
---
Seki:
> "Great, thanks."
> Look at Mayumi expectantly.
Aya:
> "Well I don't want to risk losing more of my troops without anything to gain. You see the issue?"
Seki:
> Mayumi still doesn't let go.
> "Right, you can let her go and go back to your boss." Yachie says.
> "Nope. I'm keeping her safe."
> "What do you mean nope? Don't you need to get new orders from her?"
> "If I leave now without her, I won't be able to ensure her safety, especially with you two around. Lady Keiki might even end up more than a bit mad with me."
> "Then bring her with you."
> "Ah, that works." Mayumi finally lets you go.
>_
-
Aya:
> "No, I get that, don't worry. Though, frankly, I'm really curious how this giant wolf came to be, since it seems like even they don't know why they are what they are. I'm surprised you seem to be taking it in stride."
Seki:
> Sigh and roll our eyes.
> Get back into the cart, making note of what Mayumi does.
-
Aya:
> "No, I get that, don't worry. Though, frankly, I'm really curious how this giant wolf came to be, since it seems like even they don't know why they are what they are. I'm surprised you seem to be taking it in stride."
Seki:
> Sigh and roll our eyes.
> Get back into the cart, making note of what Mayumi does.
Aya:
> "The animal realm has experienced some strange happenings. I hadn't found Yachie as convincing as earlier before all of this... She might have an advantage over us thanks to this and has realized it thanks to you two." Saki explains.
Seki:
> You board your cart. Your horses look a bit down, probably at failing to support you.
> Mayumi boards next to you, rather than in the carriage itself.
>_
-
Aya:
> "If you're that concerned about this potential new advantage of hers, particularly in the context of both of us apparently getting our minds messed with, then why are you suggesting we fight each other in this very moment while she's sitting right over there, presumably waiting to swoop in and metaphorically take the head of whichever of us wins?"
Seki:
> Speak in a calming voice to the horses.
> "Hey now, it's okay. I'm sorry I put you two in that position."
-
Aya:
> "If you're that concerned about this potential new advantage of hers, particularly in the context of both of us apparently getting our minds messed with, then why are you suggesting we fight each other in this very moment while she's sitting right over there, presumably waiting to swoop in and metaphorically take the head of whichever of us wins?"
Seki:
> Speak in a calming voice to the horses.
> "Hey now, it's okay. I'm sorry I put you two in that position."
Aya:
> "Doesn't have to be a fight. It could be a race, for example. I'm confident in both my strength and speed."
Seki:
> They still appear down in the dumps.
>_
-
Aya:
> Lighten up a bit.
> "Oh, well, a race I could certainly do."
Seki:
> Look to Mayumi.
> "So where am I allowed to go?"
-
Aya:
> Lighten up a bit.
> "Oh, well, a race I could certainly do."
Seki:
> Look to Mayumi.
> "So where am I allowed to go?"
Aya:
> You sure you're fit to go, with all that extra weight?" Saki gestures to her own chest.
Seki:
> "We're headed back to Lady Keiki to report."
>_
-
Aya:
> How large are we at the moment?
> Have we felt weighed down by this current size when traveling previously?
> Do we recall having anything in there other than a Banki head and a pile of karasu tengu?
-
Aya:
> How large are we at the moment?
> Have we felt weighed down by this current size when traveling previously?
> Do we recall having anything in there other than a Banki head and a pile of karasu tengu?
Aya:
> Big enough to struggle to get through doorways.
> A bit. Still fast enough to zip around Gensokyo, though. Judging by the two times she arrived, you think you could beat Saki at this speed. Unless that wasn't her trying to rush...
> You don't.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I don't really have a choice. Where are we going to?"
Seki:
> Say Keiki's name with the intent of identifying her location.
> Then travel there via carriage!
-
Aya:
> "I don't really have a choice. Where are we going to?"
Seki:
> Say Keiki's name with the intent of identifying her location.
> Then travel there via carriage!
Aya:
> "Hm... Where you came in here would work since you've been there already, but it's a pretty short distance... I wouldn't want to disadvantage you even more with making you head for places you haven't been. Maybe a round trip, there and back to this wolf." Saki gestures.
> "Go somewhere else. I'm planning on holding a meeting with my clan here, and this is still my territory." Yachie gestures for you to shoo.
> "Tch."
Seki:
> You head back to Keiki's place, once again ending up indoors.
> "Mission complete, Lady Keiki."
> "You stopped them from seeking out the other bosses of the animal realm?" Keiki questions. "Good-"
> "Ah... I-I'm sorry Lady Keiki, I failed!" Mayumi jumps out of the seat, banging her head against the floor in prostration.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Would you object to racing to where that haniwa's boss is? I still haven't met her. I also haven't met Yuuma, but I'm guessing she's probably off-limits as far as you two are concerned."
Seki:
> Look at Keiki with an exhausted deadpan expression.
> "No offense, lady, but this entire place is incredibly fire trucked up."
> Glance down at the prostrating Mayumi, then look back up.
> "Don't be too hard on your subordinate here, though, the blonde woman with the horns and the tail messed with her mind pretty bad."
-
Aya:
> "Would you object to racing to where that haniwa's boss is? I still haven't met her. I also haven't met Yuuma, but I'm guessing she's probably off-limits as far as you two are concerned."
Seki:
> Look at Keiki with an exhausted deadpan expression.
> "No offense, lady, but this entire place is incredibly fire trucked up."
> Glance down at the prostrating Mayumi, then look back up.
> "Don't be too hard on your subordinate here, though, the blonde woman with the horns and the tail messed with her mind pretty bad."
Aya:
> "I suppose that's alright. So, finish line would be above the Primate Spirit Garden, then? It's mostly a straight shot that way." Saki gestures. "Mostly. If you win, I'll double back for the wolf and bring 'em to you. And on my victory...?"
Seki:
> "The Animal Realm is a cruel and harsh place. Everyone here is used to and shaped by that reality. I guess recent changes make them too much for even you, huh Mayumi." Keiki lifts Mayumi up with a bit of struggle, but starts to carry her. "I'll see what I can do to help against that for next time."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Hmm...I'm mostly just a purveyor of information, admittedly. But maybe there's some important person or persons in Gensokyo you'd like an audience with for some reason? I'm well connected enough that I'm pretty sure I could bring them here to you."
---
Seki:
> "Uh, just as a heads-up, that blonde woman was acting like she had unlocked some extra power beyond the norm. You might want make sure you yourself don't get dominated."
-
Aya:
> "Hmm...I'm mostly just a purveyor of information, admittedly. But maybe there's some important person or persons in Gensokyo you'd like an audience with for some reason? I'm well connected enough that I'm pretty sure I could bring them here to you."
---
Seki:
> "Uh, just as a heads-up, that blonde woman was acting like she had unlocked some extra power beyond the norm. You might want make sure you yourself don't get dominated."
Aya:
> "There's few strong people in Gensokyo as far as I've experienced. And even they would have it harder to deal with the changes down here. Hm, maybe I'll go up there and pick out someone to lend me a hand."
Seki:
> "Hmph. I'm the goddess entrusted with saving the oppressed humans down here. I won't fall prey to the Kiketdu clan's tricks."
>_
-
Aya:
> "I could certainly help you with that instead if that's how you want to handle your business. You might be surprised by the talents of some of the folks there, though. There's the sage Yukari Yakumo, the fairy god Cirno, the vampire Remilia Scarlet, the swordswoman Youmu Konpaku, the Buddhist nun Byakuren Hijiri, the Taoist empress Toyosatomimi no Miko, even the Watatsuki Sisters from the Lunar Capital."
---
Seki:
> "Alright, as long as you have countermeasures. Given how easily she overpowered Saki and your subordinate, I would have felt bad if I didn't say anything."
-
Aya:
> "I could certainly help you with that instead if that's how you want to handle your business. You might be surprised by the talents of some of the folks there, though. There's the sage Yukari Yakumo, the fairy god Cirno, the vampire Remilia Scarlet, the swordswoman Youmu Konpaku, the Buddhist nun Byakuren Hijiri, the Taoist empress Toyosatomimi no Miko, even the Watatsuki Sisters from the Lunar Capital."
---
Seki:
> "Alright, as long as you have countermeasures. Given how easily she overpowered Saki and your subordinate, I would have felt bad if I didn't say anything."
Aya:
> "Hm. Toyosatomimi you say? As in, Prince Shoutoku? They're alive?
Seki:
> "She has an edge over Kurokoma now? Can't say I didn't expect that, but I thought Saki had grown stronger as well. Hmm."
>_
-
Aya:
> "That's the one. If you're after her specifically, I could definitely make that work."
> Wink with a grin.
> "She and I are very well-acquainted, if you know what I mean~"
Seki:
> "They seemed pretty evenly matched for a while, but I yanked her soul out of her body to try to stop her controlling my tengu companion, and that seemed to make something click inside her. There was a notable shift in attitudes and atmosphere after that."
-
Aya:
> "That's the one. If you're after her specifically, I could definitely make that work."
> Wink with a grin.
> "She and I are very well-acquainted, if you know what I mean~"
Seki:
> "They seemed pretty evenly matched for a while, but I yanked her soul out of her body to try to stop her controlling my tengu companion, and that seemed to make something click inside her. There was a notable shift in attitudes and atmosphere after that."
Aya:
> "I'm afraid you're being strung along then, if you didn't know about me."
> Saki gets to your side, then moves away, readying to start.
Seki:
> "I'm surprised you came back alive after something like that. You'd better watch yourself while you leave here. Something tells me she's got her eyes on you."
>_
-
Aya:
> "I see. Oh, uh, in which direction are we going?"
> Get lined up and ready.
> While doing so, send a wind whisper to Yachie's ear: "Sorry for trespassing in your territory. Hope we can meet again on friendlier terms, cutie~"
Seki:
> "Oh, don't you worry about that. She made it pretty damn clear she considers me an existential threat."
-
Aya:
> "I see. Oh, uh, in which direction are we going?"
> Get lined up and ready.
> While doing so, send a wind whisper to Yachie's ear: "Sorry for trespassing in your territory. Hope we can meet again on friendlier terms, cutie~"
Seki:
> "Oh, don't you worry about that. She made it pretty damn clear she considers me an existential threat."
Aya:
> "Just about that way." Saki points out. "You'll see it coming up when we get further. Hey, one of you guys be are starting signal."
> One of the wolf spirts floats into view after curiously cruising near the giant wolf.
> "Hm, so when he touches the ground, we go, yeah? No funny business trying to give me a lead now, ya hear? Fall at a consistent pace."
> The wolf spirit nods.
> Naturally, it doesn't seem like Yachie responds to you.
Seki:
> "If you're up for helping me save the human spirits down here from the animal spirits, I could lend a hand in helping you against Yachie in turn." Keiki offers. "Maybe have Mayumi personally greet and guide you anytime you're down here."
>_
-
Aya:
> Can we feel any wind/air displacement as the small wolf spirit travels?
> When we fly with pure speed in mind, do we use our wind power to increase our speed, such as by giving ourselves a tail wind?
> Considering our experience watching Saki run unencumbered for fun, run while carrying us with purpose, and run at Banki with harming intent, does any aspect of her physical ability stand out beyond 'just being really fast'?
-
Aya:
> Can we feel any wind/air displacement as the small wolf spirit travels?
> When we fly with pure speed in mind, do we use our wind power to increase our speed, such as by giving ourselves a tail wind?
> Considering our experience watching Saki run unencumbered for fun, run while carrying us with purpose, and run at Banki with harming intent, does any aspect of her physical ability stand out beyond 'just being really fast'?
Aya:
> Not really.
> You can use wind to improve your speed, but you normally don't even need to. You're naturally just the fastest girl in gensokyo.
> You aren't sure... You swear there was something with whenever she showed up, or rather, was on her way. You could tell she was coming a bit more than just someone flying your way.
>_
-
Aya:
> Is it possible she also controls wind somehow?
-
Aya:
> Is it possible she also controls wind somehow?
Aya:
> You aren't sure... You haven't seen her making use of anything like that, but you think she's been flying differently than just using those wings.
>_
-
Aya:
> Did that 'something' each time she showed up feel familiar at all?
-
Aya:
> Did that 'something' each time she showed up feel familiar at all?
Aya:
> You don't think you could tell from so far away.
>_
-
Aya:
> Did we see how Yachie reacted to our message to her?
-
Aya:
> Did we see how Yachie reacted to our message to her?
Aya:
> You did not, and she didn't vocally respond either...
>_
-
Aya:
> Is she within our line of sight?
> If so, what is she up to?
-
Aya:
> Is she within our line of sight?
> If so, what is she up to?
Aya:
> No.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Honestly, now that I know there's an excess of human spirits are here, I was going to bring in much stronger firepower than myself to help do something about it."
Aya:
> "...Wait. Hold on."
> Look to Saki.
> "I don't like doing this, but...you clearly value this opportunity. The least I can do is give you the best competition I can."
> Pull Boss's head and shoulders out of our chest to see if she's conscious yet.
-
Seki:
> "Honestly, now that I know there's an excess of human spirits are here, I was going to bring in much stronger firepower than myself to help do something about it."
Aya:
> "...Wait. Hold on."
> Look to Saki.
> "I don't like doing this, but...you clearly value this opportunity. The least I can do is give you the best competition I can."
> Pull Boss's head and shoulders out of our chest to see if she's conscious yet.
Seki:
> "Oh? Gensokyo can spare that?" Keiki questions. "They weren't really as friendly last visit."
Aya:
> "Oh?" Saki questions, as you pull Megumu out.
> Megumu blinks and rubs her eyes.
> "Oh. I uh, just woke up. Good morning. Where are we?"
> She's totally been awake for a while...
>_
-
Aya:
> "It's a long story, Boss."
> Pull her out fully and set her on her own feet.
> "I'll explain later, and then you can go back to sleep in there. But right now, I need you to take my two little lovelies to the sky to watch me and my twin here."
> Retrieve Ami. If she's also awake, set her on her own feet.
Seki:
> "They'll make resources. ...I hope."
-
Aya:
> "It's a long story, Boss."
> Pull her out fully and set her on her own feet.
> "I'll explain later, and then you can go back to sleep in there. But right now, I need you to take my two little lovelies to the sky to watch me and my twin here."
> Retrieve Ami. If she's also awake, set her on her own feet.
Seki:
> "They'll make resources. ...I hope."
Aya:
> Ami is indeed awake.
> "Do you need me for something?" She questions.
> "Ooh, a race? What idiot thinks they can beat Gensokyo's fastest?" Megumu observes after looking at Saki and yourself. "Then again, seeing as how you're slimming down, there must be big stakes..."
> "Matriarch of the Keiga family here." Saki introduces herself. "Saki Kurokoma. So, you're known as the fastest in Gensokyo? I really shouldn't pull any punches, then."
> The wolf spirit shudders a bit.
> "Haha, I guess you'll have to endure it then. Don't get blown away too hard." Saki... responds to it?
Seki:
> "Well I was apparently in their sights due to the animal spirits, so maybe they'll be friendlier next time."
>_
-
Seki:
> "I can certainly let them know that the most human-inclined party."
Aya:
> "You might be surprised, Boss. I'm taking you all out of me for a reason."
> Give Ami a small smile.
> "Just stay up in the sky and out of the way. We're technically trespassing right now, after all."
> Retrieve Suzaku. If she's awake, set her on her feet. If she's asleep, hand her off to Boss.
-
Seki:
> "I can certainly let them know that the most human-inclined party."
Aya:
> "You might be surprised, Boss. I'm taking you all out of me for a reason."
> Give Ami a small smile.
> "Just stay up in the sky and out of the way, my dear. We're technically trespassing right now, after all."
> Retrieve Suzaku. If she's awake, set her on her feet. If she's asleep, hand her off to Boss.
Seki:
> "Well then, be careful."
Aya:
> "Ah, oops." Both birds get airborne.
> You retrieve Suzaku, who glances over between the two of you.
> And, again.
> Before looking up to the other two airborne and following them up.
>_
-
Seki:
> Actually, now that we have some downtime, how does this god look?
Aya:
> Look back to Saki.
> "Okay, now truly ready. Sorry for the delay."
> Get back into a ready position.
-
Seki:
> Actually, now that we have some downtime, how does this god look?
Aya:
> Look back to Saki.
> "Okay, now truly ready. Sorry for the delay."
> Get back into a ready position.
Seki:
> She's wearing a similar yellow dress as Mayumi's, but hers looks more like a dress. You're pretty sure you observed that last time. Same with her blue hair.
Aya:
> You get ready to dart off as soon as the spirit lands...
> "Alright, if no other interruptions, you can go ahead and land on the ground at a steady speed." Saki got ready again.
> The wolf spirit nodded, slowly descending with a bit of a shake.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Thanks."
Aya:
> Be ready to move at top speed with full wind support the instant that spirit lands!
-
Seki:
> "Thanks."
Aya:
> Be ready to move at top speed with full wind support the instant that spirit lands!
Seki
> "Do you need Mayumi to guide you out of here?"
Aya:
> You ready yourself.
> The wolf spirit lands, and as soon as it does, you dart off at your top speed manipulating the wind to increase it even further!
> You think you see those tall structures and the water from before Saki grabbed you for a second, but they pass by just as quickly, if not quicker.
>_
-
Aya:
> Any obstacles?
> Can we tell how Saki is doing?
-
Aya:
> Any obstacles?
> Can we tell how Saki is doing?
Aya:
> Nothing in the air in your way.
> You can't. You don't think she's even on your tail. Though you may have passed your destination...
>_
-
Seki:
> "My cart can do the job. Thanks, though."
Aya:
> Keep going!
-
Seki:
> "My cart can do the job. Thanks, though."
Aya:
> Keep going!
Seki:
> "Take care."
Aya:
> You continue on.
> Your heart jumps for a moment as you feel something far behind, getting closer. It's that same sensation as when you noticed Saki arriving. You think she's using the wind in some way, but you can't tell how.
>_
-
Aya:
> Is it possible to 'take' the wind she's using for ourselves somehow?
-
Aya:
> Is it possible to 'take' the wind she's using for ourselves somehow?
Aya:
> You don't even know how she's using it yet. You don't believe you can pull it all the way over to you while also maintaining this speed.
>_
-
Aya:
> Can we tell how far behind it is and how quickly it's approaching?
> If so, how long might we have before it overtakes us?
-
Aya:
> Can we tell how far behind it is and how quickly it's approaching?
> If so, how long might we have before it overtakes us?
Aya:
> Not exactly to the former. But for the latter, it's definitely getting quicker and quicker in it's approach.
> A couple seconds at most.
>_
-
Aya:
> Well, strawberries.
> What are our options here, based on the observations we've made so far and knowledge of ourselves? Discount direct interference with our opponent.
-
Aya:
> Well, strawberries.
> What are our options here, based on the observations we've made so far and knowledge of ourselves? Discount direct interference with our opponent.
Aya:
> You don't know... From the feeling, you suspect Saki is using the wind like a foothold, but if that's the case, she's getting faster and faster every time she does so. Trying to kick off the wind itself, be it with your wings or legs, would probably be slower than you're flying right now.
>_
-
Aya:
> What are we currently doing with our feet and legs?
> If we aren't doing anything with them, what is stopping us from trying this wind-kickoff technique while still doing everything else we're doing right now?
-
Aya:
> What are we currently doing with our feet and legs?
> If we aren't doing anything with them, what is stopping us from trying this wind-kickoff technique while still doing everything else we're doing right now?
Aya:
> They're just behind you.
> There isn't any for you to kick off of like this. You're already doing something that's basically the same with your abilities. Judging from the moments in Saki's air displacements, you believe she's actually flying as if running on the air.
>_
-
Aya:
> So we don't have anything else at our disposal for keeping our lead?
-
Aya:
> So we don't have anything else at our disposal for keeping our lead?
Aya:
> You might be at the end of your rope...
>_
-
Aya:
> ...Let's just keep going and hope we reach the goal first...
Seki:
> "You too."
> Say Aya's name to find where she is.
-
Aya:
> ...Let's just keep going and hope we reach the goal first...
Seki:
> "You too."
> Say Aya's name to find where she is.
Aya:
> You persist, feeling her catching up more and more... but slower and slower. She's getting close, but... Is she slowing down on purpose?
Saki:
> You call out for Aya.
> Good, she still seems to be alive. You suppose Yachie didn't take the chance to get rid of her instead of you. Though she seems to be heading somewhere fast.
>_
-
Aya:
> Do we know what the Primate Spirit Garden looks like?
> If so, are we above it?
-
Aya:
> Do we know what the Primate Spirit Garden looks like?
> If so, are we above it?
Aya:
> Not really. Best guess you can make is that it was the place you were about to reach before Saki grabbed you. Though you think you've well passed that place, so it must be somewhere else?
>_
-
Seki:
> Frown a bit in mild confusion.
> "...Where is she going...?"
Aya:
> Keep up the pace until we can't anymore or Saki slows down substantially.
-
Seki:
> Frown a bit in mild confusion.
> "...Where is she going...?"
Aya:
> Keep up the pace until we can't anymore or Saki slows down substantially.
Seki:
> "Something wrong?" Keiki questions.
Aya:
> You keep going, spotting Saki as she finally reaches your side.
> She is indeed stepping off of the air. You can tell she's getting faster than the previous with each one, yet even still, you're somehow keeping just a bit ahead of her.
>_
-
Seki:
> "I located Aya in order to retrieve her on the way out, but she's moving really fast."
Aya:
> Just ahead is still enough to win! Keep going!
-
Seki:
> "I located Aya in order to retrieve her on the way out, but she's moving really fast."
Aya:
> Just ahead is still enough to win! Keep going!
Seki:
> "Hm... Maybe she's running from something? Does she usually do this?"
Aya:
> You keep on, your lead being threatened bit by bit.
> Though, you suddenly notice Saki is gone. There's not even any more air steps either.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Not really. Though, she might've gotten spooked by what Yachie did to her."
> Can we tell where she is now, relative to us?
Aya:
> ?????
> Come to a stop.
> Look around to see if our surroundings are suspicious.
> Can we feel Saki anywhere on the wind?
-
Seki:
> "Not really. Though, she might've gotten spooked by what Yachie did to her."
> Can we tell where she is now, relative to us?
Aya:
> ?????
> Come to a stop.
> Look around to see if our surroundings are suspicious.
> Can we feel Saki anywhere on the wind?
Aya:
> You brake and look around.
> You have no idea where you are... Maybe still in Hell, at least...
> You don't spot Saki around either. It's like she suddenly turned around. Nor do you see anyone for that matter, not even any spirits. It's quiet.
> There's something moving for a moment far behind you, but it stops.
Seki:
> She's finally stopped, at least.
> She's a bit too far to just point out a direction...
>_
-
Seki:
> "Oh, she stopped. Somewhere way far away."
Aya:
> Speed back to the source of the brief motion.
Seki:
> "Oh, now she's going back the way she came..."
-
Seki:
> "Oh, she stopped. Somewhere way far away."
Aya:
> Speed back to the source of the brief motion.
Seki:
> "Oh, now she's going back the way she came..."
Aya:
> You dart back to the source, finding a couple of animal spirits alarmed at your sudden appearance.
> You haven't seen this kind around. They appear to be beaked creatures. Birds of some sort no doubt.
Seki:
> "Doesn't sound like she's running from something then."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Uh, hi. Did another person that looks like me but taller come by here?"
---
Seki:
> "...I wonder if she's showing off for something? She's supposedly the fastest person in Gensokyo..."
-
Aya:
> "Uh, hi. Did another person that looks like me but taller come by here?"
---
Seki:
> "...I wonder if she's showing off for something? She's supposedly the fastest person in Gensokyo..."
Aya:
> The animal spirits look to each other, then shake their heads...
Seki:
> "Perhaps she got in a spat with Kurokoma, then? I've heard her agility is impressive as well."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Shoot. Alright, thanks."
> Adopt a thoughtful look.
> "I don't think I've seen animal spirits like you before. Based on everything else I've seen...would I happen to be in Yuuma's territory?"
---
Seki:
> "..."
> Frown a bit.
> "...A spat, probably not. Aya fell in love with Saki instantly because of how similar they look. No, if I had to guess, they're probably showing off how fast they are to each other."
-
Aya:
> "Shoot. Alright, thanks."
> Adopt a thoughtful look.
> "I don't think I've seen animal spirits like you before. Based on everything else I've seen...would I happen to be in Yuuma's territory?"
---
Seki:
> "..."
> Frown a bit.
> "...A spat, probably not. Aya fell in love with Saki instantly because of how similar they look. No, if I had to guess, they're probably showing off how fast they are to each other."
Aya:
> The spirits look you down without answer... You're not sure if they're being defiant or something else.
Seki:
> "Ah... Then, perhaps they're playing, what was it, tag?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "...I see. Well, if this is her territory, let her know that she has an outstanding invitation to Gensokyo as Aya Shameimaru's guest, for the purposes of discussion the future of our realms given recent changes to them."
> Give the two spirits a quick two-finger salute.
> "Have the day you deserve. Oh, and brace yourselves so you don't get blown away."
> Resume speed-flying back in the direction we originally came.
---
Seki:
> "...I could easily see those two doing that, yeah."
> Sigh.
-
Aya:
> "...I see. Well, if this is her territory, let her know that she has an outstanding invitation to Gensokyo as Aya Shameimaru's guest, for the purposes of discussion the future of our realms given recent changes to them."
> Give the two spirits a quick two-finger salute.
> "Have the day you deserve. Oh, and brace yourselves so you don't get blown away."
> Resume speed-flying back in the direction we originally came.
---
Seki:
> "...I could easily see those two doing that, yeah."
> Sigh.
Aya:
> You wave off the spirits with a message and start back the way you came.
Seki:
> She's moving again, but back this way.
> "Will you be leaving without her, then?"
>_
-
Seki:
> "It's tempting. ...But I shouldn't."
> "Looks like she's coming back this way. We could try to intercept her somehow."
-
Seki:
> "It's tempting. ...But I shouldn't."
> "Looks like she's coming back this way. We could try to intercept her somehow."
Seki:
> "You'd probably have a better idea of how to than I would. You do know her, don't you?"
>_
-
Seki:
> "Oh, I was just think of some place high up with a lot of visibility to keep an eye out for her."
-
Seki:
> "Oh, I was just think of some place high up with a lot of visibility to keep an eye out for her."
Seki:
> "You can't get to her like you got here?"
>_
-
Seki:
> "Ah. I guess I could...I'm just not sure if it'll keep me in pace with a target moving as quickly as she is."
-
Seki:
> "Ah. I guess I could...I'm just not sure if it'll keep me in pace with a target moving as quickly as she is."
Seki:
> "Hm... You could try, then just do it to someone else if there's trouble, no?"
Aya:
> Just a couple seconds to get back to Saki's, or rather, Yachie's place, and the big two headed wolf.
>_
-
Aya:
> And still no sign of Saki, huh?
> ...What size is our chest right now?
-
Aya:
> And still no sign of Saki, huh?
> ...What size is our chest right now?
Aya:
> Nope...
> It's around the original size. You think Saki's was bigger than this, or maybe the same.
>_
-
Aya:
> 'Around' the original size? Is it larger than normal? Perhaps larger by an amount that would indicate someone is in there?
-
Aya:
> 'Around' the original size? Is it larger than normal? Perhaps larger by an amount that would indicate someone is in there?
Aya:
> It's been a while since you've had no one accompanying you. Being mid flight and that fact makes it hard to tell if you're the same size as you were before this entire moon stuff happened.
>_
-
Seki:
> "I suppose that's true. Though I'm gonna check one thing first..."
> Say Yachie's name to identify her location.
Aya:
> Weird.
> Let's just get all the way back to the wolf, then.
-
Seki:
> "I suppose that's true. Though I'm gonna check one thing first..."
> Say Yachie's name to identify her location.
Aya:
> Weird.
> Let's just get all the way back to the wolf, then.
Seki:
> You call out Yachie's name.
> You think she's around the same place she was when you were still there?
Aya:
> You continue on, starting to slow down now that you're almost there, judging by the island with large structures nearby.
>_
-
Aya:
> Can we see anyone, including possibly that giant wolf?
-
Aya:
> Can we see anyone, including possibly that giant wolf?
Aya:
> Not yet.
>_
-
Seki:
> How close is Aya to her?
-
Seki:
> How close is Aya to her?
Seki:
> You haven't checked.
>_
-
Seki:
> Go ahead and check, then.
Aya:
> Fly the rest of the way there.
-
Seki:
> Go ahead and check, then.
Aya:
> Fly the rest of the way there.
Aya:
> You continue, before stopping back at the starting line.
> "Ah, you're back." Megumu speaks. "This um... Big wolf seems unfriendly, but the smaller wolves have been pacifying it, I suppose."
Seki:
> You check on Aya's position, finding that she's near Yachie, though much less so than when you were there, too. You wouldn't really call it near in that case.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I think I can help with that. Did the other me return here?"
Seki:
> "Alright, that should be safe. Thanks again for your help."
> Hope into our cart and travel to where Aya is.
-
Aya:
> "I think I can help with that. Did the other me return here?"
Seki:
> "Alright, that should be safe. Thanks again for your help."
> Hope into our cart and travel to where Aya is.
Aya:
> "Other? Uh, no."
Seki:
> You head for Aya, finding that she seems to have let out everyone from her. Maybe it was a fight or something she had to get serious for?
>_
-
Aya:
> Look to Banki.
> "Oh, you're back. Can you find Saki? She suddenly vanished without a trace. Give me a moment so I can come with you."
> Zip over to where the giant wolf is.
Seki:
> Look confused at the retreating cow tengu, then roll our eyes.
> Speaking Saki's name to locate her.
-
Aya:
> Look to Banki.
> "Oh, you're back. Can you find Saki? She suddenly vanished without a trace. Give me a moment so I can come with you."
> Zip over to where the giant wolf is.
Seki:
> Look confused at the retreating cow tengu, then roll our eyes.
> Speaking Saki's name to locate her.
Aya:
> The wolf is here with a few wolf spirits and your tengu companions
Seki:
> You call out Saki's name. She's very far away, even further than you recall Aya being.
>_
-
Aya:
> Wave at the giant wolf with a smile.
> "Hey, big buddy! We're gonna go track down your boss. Do you wanna come with us? I'll let you back into that comfortable place if you do."
-
Aya:
> Wave at the giant wolf with a smile.
> "Hey, big buddy! We're gonna go track down your boss. Do you wanna come with us? I'll let you back into that comfortable place if you do."
Aya:
> The wolf stands up on all fours, at the ready.
> "Why's it listen to you? Wait, don't answer that, I can already guess." Megumu sighs.
>_
-
Aya:
> Give Boss a grin.
> "You're not alone in enjoying the comforts I offer, Boss."
> Look back to the giant wolf.
> "Okay, then, let's all hop in the cart."
> Hop in the cart!
> If any of Boss, Suzaku, or Ami do not also get into the cart, give them wind orders to do so.
Ami:
> Keeping a worried eye on that giant predator spirit, carefully climb into the cart.
Seki:
> "Hey, don't go around giving load-up orders like this is your vehicle..."
> ...Whatever. Get back in the driver's seat and, once four tengu and one giant wolf are loaded in, travel to where Saki is.
-
Aya:
> Give Boss a grin.
> "You're not alone in enjoying the comforts I offer, Boss."
> Look back to the giant wolf.
> "Okay, then, let's all hop in the cart."
> Hop in the cart!
> If any of Boss, Suzaku, or Ami do not also get into the cart, give them wind orders to do so.
Ami:
> Keeping a worried eye on that giant predator spirit, carefully climb into the cart.
Seki:
> "Hey, don't go around giving load-up orders like this is your vehicle..."
> ...Whatever. Get back in the driver's seat and, once four tengu and one giant wolf are loaded in, travel to where Saki is.
Aya:
> You have everyone load up onto the cart.
Ami:
> It sure seems to understand what Aya's saying. Maybe animals are more comfortable there than youkai, given your lack of... neighbours...
Saki:
> You make sure everyone has embarked before you embark to Saki.
> As easily as normally, you arrive. There are some animal spirits around that you haven't seen compared to the other kinds. They look like crows. Or maybe just birds in general.
> Most notably is a few carrying Saki, accompanied by another horned maiden, who seems to have already noticed your group.
> "Oh?" The new horned girl licks her lips. "A... death coach, is it? I wonder what you're here for?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Point at Saki.
> "I'm here for me."
-
Aya:
> Point at Saki.
> "I'm here for me."
Aya:
> "Sorry but this is business between the factions of the Animal Realm. You might wanna fly outta here before a bigger fish than you gobbles you up."
>_
-
Whoever has a view:
> Is Saki conscious?
> If so, how does she look, and is she restrained?
-
Whoever has a view:
> Is Saki conscious?
> If so, how does she look, and is she restrained?
Seki:
> No.
> She isn't restrained, at least. Doesn't look that hurt?
>_
-
Aya:
> "Well, that might make things easier, actually."
> Hop out of the cart.
> "Because that suggests you're Yuuma, the last person I came here to see on Gensokyo's behalf."
-
Aya:
> "Well, that might make things easier, actually."
> Hop out of the cart.
> "Because that suggests you're Yuuma, the last person I came here to see on Gensokyo's behalf."
Aya:
> You disembark.
> "Doesn't have to do with taking Kurokoma with you though, does it? Unless you're saying you didn't get the chance to meet her yet?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "She actually owes me my prize for beating her in a race just now. But a lot of things would work out at once if you two simply both came with us."
-
Aya:
> "She actually owes me my prize for beating her in a race just now. But a lot of things would work out at once if you two simply both came with us."
Aya:
> "Nah. I've got things to do down here. What would even be in it for me?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "An opportunity to shape the forward progress of Gensokyo and its surrounding realms in the wake of reality's recent changes."
Seki:
> "Or, on a more personal scale, new info on Yachie."
-
Aya:
> "An opportunity to shape the forward progress of Gensokyo and its surrounding realms in the wake of reality's recent changes."
Seki:
> "Or, on a more personal scale, new info on Yachie."
Aya:
> "What's having us there going to be useful for. It's not like we've been to Gensokyo much. You're expecting us to shape that place when we don't even know it's recent happenings right now?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "Gensokyo's currently trying to work out how it wants to proceed in the wake of those changes to reality. If they want to move forward and let them be the new normal, if they want to try to undo them, things like that. Since the surrounding realms were also affected, it stands to reason that whatever changes Gensokyo tries to make will also affect those surrounding realms, including yours. I'm here to offer you the opportunity to have a voice in that decision-making process, if for no other reason than to make sure that, whatever Gensokyo decides to do, it doesn't bring harm to the Animal Realm."
-
Aya:
> "Gensokyo's currently trying to work out how it wants to proceed in the wake of those changes to reality. If they want to move forward and let them be the new normal, if they want to try to undo them, things like that. Since the surrounding realms were also affected, it stands to reason that whatever changes Gensokyo tries to make will also affect those surrounding realms, including yours. I'm here to offer you the opportunity to have a voice in that decision-making process, if for no other reason than to make sure that, whatever Gensokyo decides to do, it doesn't bring harm to the Animal Realm."
Aya:
> Megumu suddenly covers your mouth partway through.
> "On second thought, you guys look like you do things different here. Why don't you chat with miss Sekibanki here and tell us how different things are while we... consider how to propose this?" Megumu explains, dragging you towards the cart.
> "You guys continue carrying Saki, then." The horned girl gestures to the spirits.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Mmphmm!"
> Comedically flail in a vain attempt to not get dragged back.
Seki:
> Look at the quarrelling tengu, then back at the horned woman.
> "Uh."
-
Aya:
> "Mmphmm!"
> Comedically flail in a vain attempt to not get dragged back.
Seki:
> Look at the quarrelling tengu, then back at the horned woman.
> "Uh."
Aya:
> Megumu finally removes her hand as she gets you out of earshot.
> "I don't know if you noticed, but she was giving me a similar sensation to you." Megumu explains. "Ami, Suzaku, do either of you notice such too?"
> "There's two Ayas." Suzaku suggests.
Ami:
> You don't think you get what she's worried about. You can kinda feel Aya wanting something from your group, but maybe that's just her missing her size. Then again... why would you feel such a thing, you can't read her mind. Unless she's trying to ask you to provide her with something instead?
Seki:
> "So, Sekibanki, huh? Is it just you all here? You don't seem like humans." The horned woman speaks.
>_
-
Aya:
> Quietly: "Do you mean the horned woman or the unconscious woman?"
Ami:
> Quietly "I'm not sure...for some reason, I feel like Miss Aya has expectations of me. Well, I mean, of course she does, but beyond the normal. It's more than just knowing, it's an actual sensation of some kind."
Aya:
> ...Are we currently expecting anything from our cutie subordinates?
---
Seki:
> "It is, and we're not. Near as I can tell, the humans are strictly incidental to all this. I've heard that there's been a very recent uptick of human spirits in the Animal Realm? Apparently there's been an uptick of humans in other realms adjacent to Gensokyo too. They might all be connected to whatever changed."
-
Aya:
> Quietly: "Do you mean the horned woman or the unconscious woman?"
Ami:
> Quietly "I'm not sure...for some reason, I feel like Miss Aya has expectations of me. Well, I mean, of course she does, but beyond the normal. It's more than just knowing, it's an actual sensation of some kind."
Aya:
> ...Are we currently expecting anything from our cutie subordinates?
---
Seki:
> "It is, and we're not. Near as I can tell, the humans are strictly incidental to all this. I've heard that there's been a very recent uptick of human spirits in the Animal Realm? Apparently there's been an uptick of humans in other realms adjacent to Gensokyo too. They might all be connected to whatever changed."
Aya:
> No, not really. At most, you're hoping Saki wakes up to settle her end of the deal.
Seki:
> "Oh, huh. You must be pretty strong to decide to come to the animal realm. That or believing you can manage out of any trouble."
>_
-
Aya:
> Scrunch up our face in mild confusion.
> "I don't think I want anything specific out of you in the immediate..."
> Look back to Boss.
> "Maybe it's an effect of whichever of those two you're talking about?"
---
Seki:
> "I'll be honest, I'm just the driver. I had no expectations coming in. Frankly, after that other horned woman with the tail brainwashed your unconscious captive into trying to kill me with a dropkick while that equally-brainwashed haniwa soldier held me in place, I'm more than ready to get the hell out of here and never come back. ...No offense."
-
Aya:
> Scrunch up our face in mild confusion.
> "I don't think I want anything specific out of you in the immediate..."
> Look back to Boss.
> "Maybe it's an effect of whichever of those two you're talking about?"
---
Seki:
> "I'll be honest, I'm just the driver. I had no expectations coming in. Frankly, after that other horned woman with the tail brainwashed your unconscious captive into trying to kill me with a dropkick while that haniwa soldier held me in place, I'm more than ready to get the hell out of here and never come back. ...No offense."
Aya:
> Megumu shrugs.
> "Just a bit of worry is all... I didn't think it'd ruin your talk to pull you away, at least. If you think it's nothing, we can just go back and resume where we left off."
Saki:
> "You met Yachie, huh?" The horned girl approaches. "Was it that bad?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> Quietly: "I can't tell you if I think it's something or nothing until you tell me which of those two ladies you're talking about. If it's Saki, it's probably nothing worrying, she's fine. If it's Yuuma, then I don't know."
---
Seki:
> Does she seem to be threatening in her advancing?
> Hop out of the cart, but don't approach any further than that.
> "The first thing she did when I got there was brainwash that other tengu that was talking to you just now. ...Then I admit freaked out a little and might've retaliated more than was necessary in retrospect. Then it escalated and I almost died."
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> Quietly: "I can't tell you if I think it's something or nothing until you tell me which of those two ladies you're talking about. If it's Saki, it's probably nothing worrying, she's fine. If it's Yuuma, then I don't know."
---
Seki:
> Does she seem to be threatening in her advancing?
> Hop out of the cart, but don't approach any further than that.
> "The first thing she did when I got there was brainwash that other tengu that was talking to you just now. ...Then I admit freaked out a little and might've retaliated more than was necessary in retrospect. Then it escalated and I almost died."
Aya:
> "Well I'm pretty sure it's not the one currently unconscious." Megumu crosses her arms.
Seki:
> No. Almost seems like she's trying to check if you're hurt.
> You hop off.
> "Sounds like you'd better watch yourself." The girl raises a hand, as if expecting something. Though one of the nearby spirits drops something into her hand, to which the girl eats. "Or maybe I can just take them both out now while I have the chance?"
>_
-
Ami:
> Do we still have that sensation after Aya told us she has no particular expectations of us in the immediate?
> If so, can we tell anything about what she might want from us? Or can we only tell that she wants something?
Aya:
> Cross our arms in return.
> Quietly: "Hey, we don't know what these women can do."
> Quietly: "That being said, I did notice that the horned woman's spirits are birds. Saki's were wolves, and Yachie's were something else that wasn't birds. Maybe she has some kind of affinity with birds? I don't think I've ever seen a bird with horns like that, though."
---
Seki:
> Can we tell what the consumed object was?
> "Well, that's the thing. The information I mentioned is that it sounds like Yachie has unlocked something about herself. Based on the success of her mind control attempts before her talking about it and the success of her mind control attempts after it, I'd believe it. If you're gonna make a move, keep that in mind."
-
Ami:
> Do we still have that sensation after Aya told us she has no particular expectations of us in the immediate?
> If so, can we tell anything about what she might want from us? Or can we only tell that she wants something?
Aya:
> Cross our arms in return.
> Quietly: "Hey, we don't know what these women can do."
> Quietly: "That being said, I did notice that the horned woman's spirits are birds. Saki's were wolves, and Yachie's were something else that wasn't birds. Maybe she has some kind of affinity with birds? I don't think I've ever seen a bird with horns like that, though."
---
Seki:
> Can we tell what the consumed object was?
> "Well, that's the thing. The information I mentioned is that it sounds like Yachie has unlocked something about herself. Based on the success of her mind control attempts before her talking about it and the success of her mind control attempts after it, I'd believe it. If you're gonna make a move, keep that in mind."
Ami:
> Not anymore, you don't think so.
Aya:
> "We could probably ask?" Megumu suggests.
Seki:
> No. Was it something small, maybe?
> The woman hesitates.
> "Can you explain more in detail? I'm starting to second guess if dominating her is possible..." She turns. "Hey, bring Saki back."
> The spirits turn around and start to bring the Aya lookalike back to her.
>_
-
Aya:
> Quietly: "I'd be fine with that."
> Give a small grin.
> Quietly: "By the way, Boss, you were enjoying your time in there, weren't you?"
---
Seki:
> "Ah, let me think...okay, so, when I first got there, she told everyone to prostrate themselves before her. Saki flinched but didn't obey. The haniwa soldier obeyed but clearly wasn't happy with it. The second time, without her saying a word, both of them gladly followed instructions to take me out, with Saki claiming they made a deal, and the haniwa saying she was obeying her master's orders to keep me safe by preventing me from going anywhere else in this realm."
-
Aya:
> Quietly: "I'd be fine with that."
> Give a small grin.
> Quietly: "By the way, Boss, you were enjoying your time in there, weren't you?"
---
Seki:
> "Ah, let me think...okay, so, when I first got there, she told everyone to prostrate themselves before her. Saki flinched but didn't obey. The haniwa soldier obeyed but clearly wasn't happy with it. The second time, without her saying a word, both of them gladly followed instructions to take me out, with Saki claiming they made a deal, and the haniwa saying she was obeying her master's orders to keep me safe by preventing me from going anywhere else in this realm."
Aya:
> "I didn't enjoy being knocked out much, no." Megumu responds.
Seki:
> "Tch. That complicates things. She's practically untouchable then if she can just will that sort of thing. Kurokoma Saki."
> As the Ayalike is brought to her, you notice her soul leave her body, and float into the horned girl's hand.
> "Yeah, this isn't enough, she's still all there..." The horned girl sends it back towards Saki's body.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Well, no, I imagine not. But I meant the part after that."
---
Seki:
> Frown a bit.
> "You can do that too? Yachie just about went feral when I tried it. Does she not know you can do it?"
-
Aya:
> "Well, no, I imagine not. But I meant the part after that."
---
Seki:
> Frown a bit.
> "You can do that too? Yachie just about went feral when I tried it. Does she not know you can do it?"
Aya:
> "Ah, it sounds like they're bringing your new friend back. Maybe they had a change of heart." Megumu shifts the conversation, starting for the front of the cart again.
Seki:
> "If I get a taste of something, I can make it mine. It's gotten better recently, but I still don't think this is enough to deal with Yachie..."
> Saki starts to wake up, and quickly jumps as she does.
> "Ugh, you - You ruined my match!" Saki points at the horned woman.
> "Shouldn't have steered so far out here then." The girl shrugs.
>_
-
Seki:
> Look confused and mildly concerned at the horned woman's apparent confession that she's tasted Saki.
Aya:
> Hop out of the cart.
> "Is that why you suddenly vanished? I got pretty worried."
Ami:
> How did being in Aya's chest feel?
> Look to Suzaku while remaining in the cart and letting more important people take care of things.
> "Hey there, sleepyhead."
-
Seki:
> Look confused and mildly concerned at the horned woman's apparent confession that she's tasted Saki.
Aya:
> Hop out of the cart.
> "Is that why you suddenly vanished? I got pretty worried."
Ami:
> How did being in Aya's chest feel?
> Look to Suzaku while remaining in the cart and letting more important people take care of things.
> "Hey there, sleepyhead."
Seki:
> You blink. You wonder if that was Aya's rushing around.
Aya:
> You head back to the front.
> "Bastard stole my speed." Saki then turns. "I had built up so much too, and was exceeding it every step, yet you kept ahead like you were toying with me. Guess your supposed reputation as fastest stays true. But I still wanted to try and pass you at least by a hair."
> "Well I was testing something too, then. Since we both were, can we really blame each other? I'd say we let bygones be bygones and go our separate ways." The horned women says.
Ami:
> Not much different than the previous times...
> "Yes?" Suzaku questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Honestly, I was convinced you were going to overtake me, and was just doing my own thing and hoping for the best because I was out of ideas. I have no idea what it was about our travel methods that kept you just a step behind."
> Look back to Yuuma.
> "You sure you don't want to come with us?"
Ami:
> So, a comfortable feeling, or a nothing feeling?
> "How are you feeling after your nap?"
-
Aya:
> "Honestly, I was convinced you were going to overtake me, and was just doing my own thing and hoping for the best because I was out of ideas. I have no idea what it was about our travel methods that kept you just a step behind."
> Look back to Yuuma.
> "You sure you don't want to come with us?"
Ami:
> So, a comfortable feeling, or a nothing feeling?
> "How are you feeling after your nap?"
Aya:
> "Maybe. I'd be leaving my alliance to fend for themselves against Saki and Yachie if I do. Not to mention that idol goddess hasn't made a big move yet, and I feel like she might."
> "Same issue on my part. Why don't all four of us go and call a temporary truce?" Saki suggests.
> "Because then the humans down here will try something." The horned woman explains. "Not to mention that goddess still having a pretty strong subordinate."
> "Ah, right..."
Ami:
> The latter. Though it was a bit of something comfortable when you were pulled out, at least.
> "Better." Suzaku smiles a bit.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I mean, the other major names Hecatia mentioned could also come with the two of you. That cart's roomier than you might think."
Seki:
> Frown.
> "I'm not going anywhere near Yachie again without assurances she won't try to kill me."
Ami:
> Smile a bit in response.
> "Good."
> "...So, uh...sorry for asking you to do that weird stuff with me."
-
Aya:
> "I mean, the other major names Hecatia mentioned could also come with the two of you. That cart's roomier than you might think."
Seki:
> Frown.
> "I'm not going anywhere near Yachie again without assurances she won't try to kill me."
Ami:
> Smile a bit in response.
> "Good."
> "...So, uh...sorry for asking you to do that weird stuff with me."
Aya:
> "Again, we can't afford to leave with the current state of things here." The horned girl says.
Seki:
> "Intimidate her into backing off, then." The horned girl suggests. "You could totally do so with your abilities. I get the feeling you're being too much of a pushover."
Ami:
> "It's alright. We're both fine now."
>_
-
Seki:
> "I'd rather just be left alone by everyone, frankly."
Aya:
> "Mmm...given the geopolitical state of this realm, I suppose I can understand everyone involved not wanting to divert forces away for an extended period of time without assurances that nothing bad will happen while they're gone. Though, truth be told, Saki, I was going to offer you that trip to visit Lady Toyosatomimi even if I had won. And, uh, I did kind of promise your giant wolf that I'd let them back into the comfortable place..."
-
Seki:
> "I'd rather just be left alone by everyone, frankly."
Aya:
> "Mmm...given the geopolitical state of this realm, I suppose I can understand everyone involved not wanting to divert forces away for an extended period of time without assurances that nothing bad will happen while they're gone. Though, truth be told, Saki, I was going to offer you that trip to visit Lady Toyosatomimi even if I had won. And, uh, I did kind of promise your giant wolf that I'd let them back into the comfortable place..."
Seki:
> "Hard to do if people know they can push you around without consequence."
Aya:
> "Well, you can take your winnings. I won't be able to take you up on that trip though. I do have to bring my forces back up since there's a few missing."
>_
-
Seki:
> Is Aya still loaded full of animal spirits?
> If so, can we tell which types?
Aya:
> "Well, that's...okay, here's the thing."
> Look back to the giant wolf in the cart and beckon it to join us.
> "I've wanted to bring it up for a while now and simply haven't had the opportunity, but based on what I experienced and what the giant wolf said earlier, I'm reasonably positive they're somehow an amalgamation of your smaller wolf spirits. If you're missing some of your forces, it's because those forces somehow combined."
> Gently pat the giant wolf.
Seki:
> "I've been wondering the same thing. That giant wolf definitely wasn't among the spirits that got stuffed into you. I would most certainly have noticed if it was."
-
Seki:
> Is Aya still loaded full of animal spirits?
> If so, can we tell which types?
Aya:
> "Well, that's...okay, here's the thing."
> Look back to the giant wolf in the cart and beckon it to join us.
> "I've wanted to bring it up for a while now and simply haven't had the opportunity, but based on what I experienced and what the giant wolf said earlier, I'm reasonably positive they're somehow an amalgamation of your smaller wolf spirits. If you're missing some of your forces, it's because those forces somehow combined."
> Gently pat the giant wolf.
Seki:
> "I've been wondering the same thing. That giant wolf definitely wasn't among the spirits that got stuffed into you. I would most certainly have noticed if it was."
Seki:
> You don't think so.
Aya:
> You bring the wolf out.
> "Well... That still doesn't change that I have to gather more now." Saki scratches her head.
>_
-
Aya:
> "It doesn't, but I did at least want to make sure I told you before you sent them off with me."
> Look up at the giant wolf.
> "Hey, did you want to speak for yourself at all? Maybe how you're feeling, or what you want to be called? Things like that."
Seki:
> Look around at the bird spirits.
> "...I wonder if the process could be replicated?"
-
Aya:
> "It doesn't, but I did at least want to make sure I told you before you sent them off with me."
> Look up at the giant wolf.
> "Hey, did you want to speak for yourself at all? Maybe how you're feeling, or what you want to be called? Things like that."
Seki:
> Look around at the bird spirits.
> "...I wonder if the process could be replicated?"
Seki:
> "I could probably undo it by now." The horned woman says. "Causing such a problem on purpose sounds like a fun change of pace."
>_
-
Aya:
> Look up at the giant wolf.
> "Is that something you want?"
-
Aya:
> Look up at the giant wolf.
> "Is that something you want?"
Aya:
> The wolf looks uncertain.
> "It was pleasant in there..."
> "Won't you like, pass on to the next life if you're too content?" The horned woman suggests.
> "Crap, maybe that might happen." Saki considers.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, Wolfie here wasn't possessing me, they were physically inside my body. Suzaki, Ami, would you mind quickly showing our new friends what I mean?"
Ami:
> "Oh, uh, sure thing, Miss Aya."
> Hop out of the cart, walk over to Aya, and deposit ourselves into her chest.
-
Aya:
> "Oh, Wolfie here wasn't possessing me, they were physically inside my body. Suzaki, Ami, would you mind quickly showing our new friends what I mean?"
Ami:
> "Oh, uh, sure thing, Miss Aya."
> Hop out of the cart, walk over to Aya, and deposit ourselves into her chest.
Ami:
> You hop back into Aya.
Aya:
> "I didn't expect it to be possession in the first place. My point still stands."
>_
-
Aya:
> Did Suzaku also do as instructed?
> "Oh. I thought it would have been possession only."
> Look back up to the giant wolf.
> "Did being in there feel like you were going to pass on? If it's going to happen, you should be able to feel it starting to happen."
-
Aya:
> Did Suzaku also do as instructed?
> "Oh. I thought it would have been possession only."
> Look back up to the giant wolf.
> "Did being in there feel like you were going to pass on? If it's going to happen, you should be able to feel it starting to happen."
Aya:
> No. She's still out here.
> "There was nothing, and a feeling that I wouldn't have any more worries. Then suddenly everything came crashing back as you and lady Kurokoma started something with the Kiketsu matriarch."
>_
-
Aya:
> Look to Suzaku.
> "Does that sound like what you felt when you nearly passed on?"
-
Aya:
> Look to Suzaku.
> "Does that sound like what you felt when you nearly passed on?"
Aya:
> "I think this is a different case..." Suzaku puts a hand to her chin.
>_
-
Aya:
> Look back to Saki and the horned woman.
> "Suzaku recently went through exactly what you're describing. It sounds like things are different for Wolfie here."
-
Aya:
> Look back to Saki and the horned woman.
> "Suzaku recently went through exactly what you're describing. It sounds like things are different for Wolfie here."
Aya:
> "I dunno. She seems like she's not just a spirit." Saki says.
> "Versus the packed spirits that can barely force a physical body. Probably a good weapon against those idols like that, maybe." The horned girl says.
>_
-
Aya:
> "She's not just a spirit, but there was a brief time when her soul was in my body in the more conventional possession way. Sorry, probably should have specified that."
-
Aya:
> "She's not just a spirit, but there was a brief time when her soul was in my body in the more conventional possession way. Sorry, probably should have specified that."
Aya:
> The horned woman shrugs.
> "Well, don't say you weren't warned such might happen if it does happen."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Apologies. I do get what you're saying, trust me. I just wanted as much information on the table before a decision was made. And I don't even consider it my decision."
> Look at and gesture to Saki.
> "I'd say this is up to you..."
> Look at and gesture to the wolf('s two heads).
> "...and up to you."
-
Aya:
> "Apologies. I do get what you're saying, trust me. I just wanted as much information on the table before a decision was made. And I don't even consider it my decision."
> Look at and gesture to Saki.
> "I'd say this is up to you..."
> Look at and gesture to the wolf('s two heads).
> "...and up to you."
Aya:
> "Well I certainly don't want them to-... Okay, it sounds a bit bad when you think of it as keeping them from passing on." Saki considers.
> "We wolf spirits are known for our ferocity." The two headed wolf speaks. Though it'd be a bit nice, to go out with a whimper somewhere pleasant instead of fighting doesn't feel right... It was nice while it lasted." The wolf spirit sits back down.
>_
-
Aya:
> Smile and give the wolf some pets.
> "Then that's what you'll do. It was fun having you along for the ride, though, buddy."
Seki:
> "Couldn't you not fly anymore?"
Aya:
> "We're not gonna worry about that."
-
Aya:
> Smile and give the wolf some pets.
> "Then that's what you'll do. It was fun having you along for the ride, though, buddy."
Seki:
> "Couldn't you not fly anymore?"
Aya:
> "We're not gonna worry about that."
Aya:
> "Maybe if I get enough of a lead against the others I can visit in the future." Saki considers.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Looking forward to it."
> Offer Saki a handshake with a grin.
> "It was fun meeting my twin. Next time we're both free, we should get way closer acquainted~"
-
Aya:
> "Looking forward to it."
> Offer Saki a handshake with a grin.
> "It was fun meeting my twin. Next time we're both free, we should get way closer acquainted~"
Aya:
> Saki accepts, rolling her neck a bit.
> "Yeah, you seem to get around these guys a bit better. Maybe I'll get an edge over them if I stick around you more later."
> "So you're saying you ended up as the weakest link between the three of us? Rough. Well, I don't feel like taking you out while you're weak just yet." The horned girl shrugs. "So enjoy your time until then."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, I meant more like this."
> Put a hand on the back of Saki's head and try pushing her face (and just her face) into the surface of our chest. (Do not attempt to store her.)
-
Aya:
> "Oh, I meant more like this."
> Put a hand on the back of Saki's head and try pushing her face (and just her face) into the surface of our chest. (Do not attempt to store her.)
Aya:
> Saki swiftly dodges your attempt, holding her hat with one hand.
> "I... appreciate the gesture, but you don't need to do it right now."
> "Do you ever take that off? Maybe I shouldn't have let you keep it when I took you down." The horned woman speaks.
> "Ahem, at any rate, I should get going before anything bad happens. Let's see if you're any faster than the individual spirits." Saki turns to the two headed wolf.
> "I'll try to keep up." The wolf responds.
> "If you're being welcoming to us, could you help us understand our abilities more?" Suzaku suddenly questions.
> "Huh? Who said I could, let alone would?" The horned girl asks.
> "You were using something of Aya's just a bit ago..." Suzaku looks aside.
>_
-
Aya:
> To the horned woman: "And there are no expectations that you'd do something for us for free, of course."
-
Aya:
> To the horned woman: "And there are no expectations that you'd do something for us for free, of course."
Aya:
> "Hm... I'm listening." She responds.
>_
-
Aya:
> Glance over at the giant wolf, then look around at the bird spirits, then look back to the horned woman.
> "...We could try to make you a giant bird?"
-
Aya:
> Glance over at the giant wolf, then look around at the bird spirits, then look back to the horned woman.
> "...We could try to make you a giant bird?"
Aya:
> You glance over, watching as it takes off shortly after Saki does. It doesn't look like it'll catch up.
> "Not interested."
>_
-
Aya:
> Shrug.
> "What sort of recompense might you want, then?"
-
Aya:
> Shrug.
> "What sort of recompense might you want, then?"
Aya:
> "Doesn't sound like you have much to offer I take it?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "It's more that I don't know what you would want. Just because I don't have something tangible I can offer in the immediate doesn't mean I can't track that tangible thing down on request."
-
Aya:
> "It's more that I don't know what you would want. Just because I don't have something tangible I can offer in the immediate doesn't mean I can't track that tangible thing down on request."
Aya:
> "So that's a no, then?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Sigh.
> "I suppose not, if having the fastest, best-informed person in Gensokyo willing and able to do a courier run for you holds no appeal to you."
-
Aya:
> Sigh.
> "I suppose not, if having the fastest, best-informed person in Gensokyo willing and able to do a courier run for you holds no appeal to you."
Aya:
> "Pretty much."
>_
-
Aya:
> Look to Suzaku and shrug.
Seki:
> "Hey, I did give you that Yachie info I told you about. That's gotta be worth something."
-
Aya:
> Look to Suzaku and shrug.
Seki:
> "Hey, I did give you that Yachie info I told you about. That's gotta be worth something."
Seki:
> "Fair enough. Alright, anything you wanna know then?" The horned girl turns her attention to you.
>_
-
Seki:
> Blink.
> "...Uh..."
> Look to the tengu group, then back to the horned woman.
> "...I guess I'm curious what they're talking about when they say you're using something of Aya's. You don't look particularly tengu-y to me..."
-
Seki:
> Blink.
> "...Uh..."
> Look to the tengu group, then back to the horned woman.
> "...I guess I'm curious what they're talking about when they say you're using something of Aya's. You don't look particularly tengu-y to me..."
Seki:
> "That Aya girl can control the wind. Though there's a bit more in there. If I had to guess, given almost all winged and airborne creatures are so engrossed in the sky and such, she can sort of puppet them around, with the strings being wind itself. I could use a bit of it because I can absorb anything, and anything I absorb, I understand and can make use of myself."
>_
-
Seki:
> "Oh."
Aya:
> Blink.
> "...When did you absorb me? I feel like I'd remember that happening..."
-
Seki:
> "Oh."
Aya:
> Blink.
> "...When did you absorb me? I feel like I'd remember that happening..."
Aya:
> "I don't have to absorb everything, nor even a lot. Just having you around means I can take a quick bite if I like. It's better if I actually do more than absorb what's lingering about, but that doesn't mean it won't work if I don't."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Wow. This place really is something else, huh."
> Frown a bit.
> "I kinda feel bad for Saki...it must be rough maintaining a faction and territory when up against what you two can do."
-
Aya:
> "Wow. This place really is something else, huh."
> Frown a bit.
> "I kinda feel bad for Saki...it must be rough maintaining a faction and territory when up against what you two can do."
Aya:
> "Seems like it's only recently gotten like this. Not like much changes for me. I'm still at the top, but now Yachie's become a bit more of a worry."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, yeah, that probably happened once reality started blending with fantasy earlier today. There have been issues in Gensokyo and the surrounding realms as a result. People that could fly before can't anymore, and humans have been appearing in places they shouldn't. Sounds like you lot only got stronger, though, loss of flight aside. I wonder why that happened?"
-
Aya:
> "Oh, yeah, that probably happened once reality started blending with fantasy earlier today. There have been issues in Gensokyo and the surrounding realms as a result. People that could fly before can't anymore, and humans have been appearing in places they shouldn't. Sounds like you lot only got stronger, though, loss of flight aside. I wonder why that happened?"
Aya:
> The horned girl shrugs.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Hmm. It's not a problem if we fix things and the sudden surge of human spirits goes back down, right?"
-
Aya:
> "Hmm. It's not a problem if we fix things and the sudden surge of human spirits goes back down, right?"
Aya:
> "I'm not gonna chase after you if something you do outside of here ends up taking me down a peg or such." She explains. "Long as you're not actually being a pest down here."
>_
-
Aya:
> "That's all I can ask. Alright, folks, let's shove off."
> Hop back into the cart, taking Ami back out and seating her next to us.
-
Aya:
> "That's all I can ask. Alright, folks, let's shove off."
> Hop back into the cart, taking Ami back out and seating her next to us.
Aya:
> You board the cart once again, and place Ami back out.
> Suzaku follows aboard. Megumu is already on.
Seki:
> "That all you wanted? To ask about your friend there?" The horned girl questions.
>_
-
Seki:
> "The topic of what I want is an extremely broad question. How much time do you have?"
-
Seki:
> "The topic of what I want is an extremely broad question. How much time do you have?"
Seki:
> "I wasn't busy when Kurokoma came flying by, and I'm not busy now." She shrugs.
>_
-
Seki:
> "..."
> Look like we're going to say something, but then stop, and shift to a more pensive look.
> "...You can use people's abilities that you've absorbed, right? Does that mean, if you absorbed mine, you'd be able to do this?"
> Hold a hand out and spawn a head in it.
-
Seki:
> "..."
> Look like we're going to say something, but then stop, and shift to a more pensive look.
> "...You can use people's abilities that you've absorbed, right? Does that mean, if you absorbed mine, you'd be able to do this?"
> Hold a hand out and spawn a head in it.
Seki:
> You make a head, to which the horned girl also does such, letting it float beside her.
>_
-
Seki:
> Point at the horned woman's new second head.
> "Could we bring that you with us?"
-
Seki:
> Point at the horned woman's new second head.
> "Could we bring that you with us?"
Seki:
> "I'd be stuck having to keep this absorbed. Wait a moment..." The horned woman squats down in heavy thought...
> ...
> The floating head she possesses floats to your side.
> "Yeah, I think this will be fine." She sits down fully, chuckling a bit to herself.
>_
-
Seki:
> Unmake the new head of our own that we just created, and take the horned woman's floating head in our hands.
> "Thanks. Though, how'd you get it to stay afloat? Mine just thunk to the ground now if they get too far away."
-
Seki:
> Unmake the new head of our own that we just created, and take the horned woman's floating head in our hands.
> "Thanks. Though, how'd you get it to stay afloat? Mine just thunk to the ground now if they get too far away."
Seki:
> You unmake your new head, and take hold of the one she produced.
> "Maybe it's something about how you view yourself. If your specialty is making your head fly, why would it get stopped by something else if it isn't directly opposing it? Same for the rest of your talents. Though even with them, I feel like Yachie would manage to turn the situation around against me. That's less opposition against the abilities, and more something of her own that can get past it..."
>_
-
Seki:
> "Well, I myself can't fly anymore. Are you saying you can?"
> Blink.
> "...Oh, maybe absorbing Aya's abilities would have done that for you."
-
Seki:
> "Well, I myself can't fly anymore. Are you saying you can?"
> Blink.
> "...Oh, maybe absorbing Aya's abilities would have done that for you."
Seki:
> "I can't fly. The head can though. Even thinking of the entire body as a neck for the head doesn't let me fly. Saki seems to have enough strength in her legs to step off of the air itself, which is a way to fly, if with less control than before things changed. That Aya girl would have an easier method to fly, even without wings."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Wait, what?"
Seki:
> Frown a bit.
> Holding the woman's head in one hand, make another head of our own in our other hand.
New Sekihead:
> Try flying straight upward.
-
Aya:
> "Wait, what?"
Seki:
> Frown a bit.
> Holding the woman's head in one hand, make another head of our own in our other hand.
New Sekihead:
> Try flying straight upward.
Seki:
> You make a head and have it fly upwards.
> It gets fairly high, but after a certain point, it fails to be capable of flying, and falls back down. Though it recovers before worryingly long.
> "You can get further than that, right?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Watch the flying head with curiosity.
Sekihead:
> Try getting higher.
-
Aya:
> Watch the flying head with curiosity.
Sekihead:
> Try getting higher.
Aya:
> You watch, wondering what the attempt is even for.
Seki:
> You keep trying to fly higher, yet this invisible limit still seems to be present, where you can no longer fly until you drop back down some.
>_
-
Seki:
> "I can't, no."
-
Seki:
> "I can't, no."
Seki:
> "Hm." The horned head flies up, passing yours...
> Only to fall back to your height.
> "The hell?" She comments.
>_
-
Seki:
> Shrug.
> "That's just how it is now."
-
Seki:
> Shrug.
> "That's just how it is now."
Seki:
> "So this is that problem thing you said was happening in Gensokyo and other places? I see..."
>_
-
Aya:
> "It's more a symptom of the overall issue, but yes. Hey, by the way, you don't mind if I carry that head of yours around, do you?"
> Retrieve our Bankihead, show it off, then return it to where we pulled it from.
-
Aya:
> "It's more a symptom of the overall issue, but yes. Hey, by the way, you don't mind if I carry that head of yours around, do you?"
> Retrieve our Bankihead, show it off, then return it to where we pulled it from.
Aya:
> "Since we're limited in how far away it can fly from us, I guess that'd be the best way to keep it from taking up your hands all the time." The horned girl seems to agree to such.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Aces. Thanks."
Seki:
> "Would it be a problem for you if we stopped at the haniwa god's place on our way out? Aya hasn't met her properly yet."
> Bring out floating head back down and unmake it.
> Do we still have possession of the woman's extra loose head? If so, carry it over to Aya.
Aya:
> If we are brought the loose head, take it and place it on our chest, enough down into it that it's secure and won't easily fall out but not so far that it goes in all the way.
-
Aya:
> "Aces. Thanks."
Seki:
> "Would it be a problem for you if we stopped at the haniwa god's place on our way out? Aya hasn't met her properly yet."
> Bring out floating head back down and unmake it.
> Do we still have possession of the woman's extra loose head? If so, carry it over to Aya.
Aya:
> If we are brought the loose head, take it and place it on our chest, enough down into it that it's secure and won't easily fall out but not so far that it goes in all the way.
Seki:
> You descend, as does the horned girl's head, though over to Aya.
> "I got no issue with that." The horned girl states. She seems nice so far.
Aya:
> You seat the head on your pillows.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Aya Shameimaru. A pleasure."
> Gently pat the head's hair.
Seki:
> Get back in the driver's spot.
-
Aya:
> "Aya Shameimaru. A pleasure."
> Gently pat the head's hair.
Seki:
> Get back in the driver's spot.
Aya:
> You pat the head, but it does not meet your gaze.
Seki:
> You return to your seat.
> "Good luck on getting to that goddess' place safely." The horned girl speaks.
>_
-
Aya:
> Adopt a thoughtful expression for a moment, then try giving Suzaku a wind order to get back into our chest. If she makes a move for us, gently lift the horned woman's head out of the way, and set her back down once Suzaku's in.
-
Aya:
> Adopt a thoughtful expression for a moment, then try giving Suzaku a wind order to get back into our chest. If she makes a move for us, gently lift the horned woman's head out of the way, and set her back down once Suzaku's in.
Aya:
> You try to give Suzaku a wind order, and she readies to do so, lifting the horned woman's head for you.
> Surprisingly, she manages to get in while positioning to rest the horned woman back on you. Well, mostly on you. You need to adjust her a bit, but she did decently well. Though, the increase probably would've made her fall in fully if she wasn't positioned like that, so maybe you were lucky.
>_
-
Aya:
> ...Huh.
> Look over at Iizunamaru, gesturing at our chest.
> "Whaddaya think, Boss? Wanna get back in?"
Seki:
> Locate 'Keiki Haniyasushin'.
> Then drive our cart to her.
-
Aya:
> ...Huh.
> Look over at Iizunamaru, gesturing at our chest.
> "Whaddaya think, Boss? Wanna get back in?"
Seki:
> Locate 'Keiki Haniyasushin'.
> Then drive our cart to her.
Aya:
> "Sure. I'm sure you're feeling a bit down about the whole big double headed wolf thing." Megumu responds.
Seki:
> You make your way to Keiki, finding her in another, more cluttered room. It's a miracle you didn't knock anything down.
> "Ah, you're still alive." Keiki greets you, beside heading towards a curtain in the middle of the room
>_
-
Aya:
> "I mean, kinda, I suppose. Though I was more asking in case you wanted to get back to your rest."
> Gently lift the horned woman's head up so Boss can fit herself in.
Seki:
> "Yeah, we're on our way out. Wanted to stop here one last time before that, though."
-
Aya:
> "I mean, kinda, I suppose. Though I was more asking in case you wanted to get back to your rest."
> Gently lift the horned woman's head up so Boss can fit herself in.
Seki:
> "Yeah, we're on our way out. Wanted to stop here one last time before that, though."
Aya:
> You lift the horned woman again, letting Megumu join as well.
Seki:
> "Hm, what for? Did you end up encountering Yachie again?" Keiki heads behind the curtain.
> for a moment, you can see Mayumi behind there as well.
>_
-
Seki:
> "No, just that the other Gensokyo native I told you about hadn't been able to meet you yet."
Aya:
> Gently set the horned head back down in its seat.
> "Ah, yeah, that's me."
> Hop out of the cart.
-
Seki:
> "No, just that the other Gensokyo native I told you about hadn't been able to meet you yet."
Aya:
> Gently set the horned head back down in its seat.
> "Ah, yeah, that's me."
> Hop out of the cart.
Aya:
> You hop out, to which the woman peeks back out.
> "Ah, hello. Sorry for the fragmented attention. I'm modifying Mayumi right now. Actually, given you are the inspiration, I suppose I could share the progress."
>_
-
Aya:
> How does this woman look?
> Tilt our head slightly.
> "I'm the what now?"
-
Aya:
> How does this woman look?
> Tilt our head slightly.
> "I'm the what now?"
Aya:
> You can't see much of her with her mostly behind the curtain. She has blue hair, at least.
> "Your friend told me you were carring others in some way, right? Or maybe she meant a different friend. My apologies if so.
>_
-
Aya:
> "No, that's me. I got a couple of different on-person storage options, so to speak."
-
Aya:
> "No, that's me. I got a couple of different on-person storage options, so to speak."
Aya:
> "A couple?" She questions, though continues her work.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Yup. I can show you once you're able. Don't want to interrupt what you're doing."
> Gently pet the horned head some more.
-
Aya:
> "Yup. I can show you once you're able. Don't want to interrupt what you're doing."
> Gently pet the horned head some more.
Aya:
> You pat the horned woman's head.
> "I'm not a pet, you know." She responds.
> "Is that, um... Yuuma, was it?" Keiki peeks back out. "Eh!? Did you decapitate her?" She steps out fully.
> You can see that she has an apron on with a bunch of small tools in the pockets. Some sharp, some blunt.
>_
-
Seki:
> "...We never actually got her name, to be honest."
Aya:
> "She decapitated herself, actually. With a little help. But she's fine."
> Look down at the horned head.
> "Do you want me to stop, then?"
-
Seki:
> "...We never actually got her name, to be honest."
Aya:
> "She decapitated herself, actually. With a little help. But she's fine."
> Look down at the horned head.
> "Do you want me to stop, then?"
Aya:
> "Oh. Yeah, I'm Yuuma Toutetsu. You've got nothing to worry about by the way, I goddess." The head speaks. "I'm not here to spy or anything."
> "A peaceful visit then, hm." The woman returns to her work.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Yeah, she's coming along with us because she can. The rest of her is elsewhere, including her original head."
-
Aya:
> "Yeah, she's coming along with us because she can. The rest of her is elsewhere, including her original head."
Aya:
> "At least that means they'll still be there to keep each other in check, for now." The woman responds.
>_
-
Aya:
> Look down at the head.
> "But seriously, did you want me to not do that anymore?"
Seki:
> Try to get a peek at what's going on behind the curtain.
-
Aya:
> Look down at the head.
> "But seriously, did you want me to not do that anymore?"
Seki:
> Try to get a peek at what's going on behind the curtain.
Aya:
> "I'm not some kind of pet."
Seki:
> You try to peer over, but you don't have any good angle... You could probably send a head above the curtain to see, or on the other side that Keiki isn't peeking out of from time to time.
>_
-
Aya:
> "This sort of physical intimacy isn't reserved for pets or anything like that."
-
Aya:
> "This sort of physical intimacy isn't reserved for pets or anything like that."
Aya:
> "Well, it feels like it, so I'd rather you didn't."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Sure thing. So what's it like having multiple perspectives?"
-
Aya:
> "Sure thing. So what's it like having multiple perspectives?"
Aya:
> "You seriously haven't asked your friend that already?"
>_
-
Aya:
> "She's used to it, you're not. I'm not looking for a functional description, I'm asking about a brand-new experience."
-
Aya:
> "She's used to it, you're not. I'm not looking for a functional description, I'm asking about a brand-new experience."
Aya:
> "Unfortunately, you won't get that from me. This isn't the first time I've had a taste of something like this."
>_
-
Seki:
> Frown a bit.
> "Wait, how?"
-
Seki:
> Frown a bit.
> "Wait, how?"
Seki:
> "In terms of being squished against something soft, or of having multiple perspectives?" the horned head asks.
>_
-
Seki:
> "The latter."
Aya:
> "Or both, honestly."
-
Seki:
> "The latter."
Aya:
> "Or both, honestly."
Seki:
> "The former is something you can expect to happen at least some point in your life, if you're not someone who stays away from others all the time. The latter, I don't think I even remember who it was. Maybe it's been multiple people before, but you're not the only person in existence that has a way to see the world through more sets of eyes."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Aww, I was hoping for something more exciting than that."
-
Aya:
> "Aww, I was hoping for something more exciting than that."
Aya:
> "If I remembered, I would've told the story better. Ah well."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Ah well indeed. Well, maybe new memories can be made."
Seki:
> "Anyway, Miss Keiki, how fares your progress?"
-
Aya:
> "Ah well indeed. Well, maybe new memories can be made."
Seki:
> "Anyway, Miss Keiki, how fares your progress?"
Seki:
> "Still going. There's some problems with it."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Anything we can help with?"
-
Aya:
> "Anything we can help with?"
Aya:
> "Not really. I just have to work out how to get through it."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Ah. Should we leave you be, then?"
-
Aya:
> "Ah. Should we leave you be, then?"
Aya:
> "If you don't need anything." She responds, still behind the curtain.
>_
-
Aya:
> How much effort would it take to peek behind the curtain?
-
Aya:
> How much effort would it take to peek behind the curtain?
Aya:
> You could send a gust of wind to move it out the way.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I mean...kinda? But if you're going to be occupied for a while..."
-
Aya:
> "I mean...kinda? But if you're going to be occupied for a while..."
Aya:
> "If you're in contact with the goddess of hell, nothing's stopping you from visiting later. But if you need something now, I'm available."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Well, I am kinda curious to see whatcha got going on back there, if it's really inspired by things I can do."
-
Aya:
> "Well, I am kinda curious to see whatcha got going on back there, if it's really inspired by things I can do."
Aya:
> The woman moves the curtain out of the way, revealing Mayumi. Her chest doesn't seem much larger than when you saw her before, but you think there's a hole between it.
> Mayumi waves slightly, as if nothing is going on.
> "Why don't you just make a new subordinate for it?" The horned woman's head questions.
>_
-
Seki:
> Can we see the hole? If so, could we fit a head in there?
Aya:
> Examine the woman, now that she's revealed herself.
-
Seki:
> Can we see the hole? If so, could we fit a head in there?
Aya:
> Examine the woman, now that she's revealed herself.
Seki:
> Yes. Though from what you see of it, it's too small a hole for much to fit in.
Aya:
> As observed before, she has on an apron with many tools in its pockets. Underneath, you can see a dark brown dress. You do notice some curve to her figure, but it's either not much, or hindered a lot by her clothing.
>_
-
Aya:
> "...Huh."
> Look to Mayumi.
> "Does that not, uh, hurt?"
-
Aya:
> "...Huh."
> Look to Mayumi.
> "Does that not, uh, hurt?"
Aya:
> "Miss Keiki made sure it wouldn't." Mayumi responds.
>_
-
Aya:
> "That's...quite impressive."
Seki:
> Produce a spare head.
> "Do you wish to try it out?"
-
Aya:
> "That's...quite impressive."
Seki:
> Produce a spare head.
> "Do you wish to try it out?"
Seki:
> "It's not done yet." You're not sure who she answered. "There's still a lot of work to be done before this works for anything."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Would it be rude to ask to look inside?"
-
Aya:
> "Would it be rude to ask to look inside?"
Aya:
> "A bit, yes." The woman answers.
> "Only miss Keiki is allowed to." Mayumi says.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Gotcha. Well, I hope everything goes well with this."
-
Aya:
> "Gotcha. Well, I hope everything goes well with this."
Aya:
> "Good luck in your things, too. I know you shouldn't have much trouble leaving here given how you keep making it to me." Keiki says.
>_
-
Aya:
> Smirk a bit.
> "That depends on how much patience Banki has left with me."
Seki:
> "...There's certainly less than there could be."
Aya:
> "Out of curiosity, are you going to try to fit yourself in there?"
-
Aya:
> Smirk a bit.
> "That depends on how much patience Banki has left with me."
Seki:
> "...There's certainly less than there could be."
Aya:
> "Out of curiosity, are you going to try to fit yourself in there?"
Aya:
> "Who, me? Why?" The head questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> "That's what I've been primarily using mine for. In fact, my direct superior is in there right now."
-
Aya:
> "That's what I've been primarily using mine for. In fact, my direct superior is in there right now."
Aya:
> "I see no reason for me to do that as well." she responds.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Well, it keeps her safe and allows me to chauffeur her around, which seem like things your soldier might appreciate being allowed to do."
-
Aya:
> "Well, it keeps her safe and allows me to chauffeur her around, which seem like things your soldier might appreciate being allowed to do."
Aya:
> "I guess you have a-"
> "Huh? Did you mean me?" Keiki glances over.
> "That might require me being made in a much larger size. Though, I could be of greater use and protection to Lady Keiki in that case." Mayumi adds.
> "Hm... I was only thinking of expanding one area, but doing it for everywhere would increase the capacity much better..."
>_
-
Aya:
> Blink, then shake our head.
> "Sorry, mixed myself up."
> Look to Keiki.
> "I meant you, yeah."
> Look back down at the head.
> "Not that I'd object to keeping you safe in there, of course."
-
Aya:
> Blink, then shake our head.
> "Sorry, mixed myself up."
> Look to Keiki.
> "I meant you, yeah."
> Look back down at the head.
> "Not that I'd object to keeping you safe in there, of course."
Aya:
> "I'd say you have a point, but I'm plenty strong myself. Though I can't move around like this, I can probably still use my abilities." The head speaks.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I've heard it's comfy in there, for what it's worth. I've carted around a handful of sleeping folks."
> Look back up at Keiki.
> "Well, in my case, it all grows as things get added to it. Like, even if whatever...entrance, so to speak, you have going right now is small, it would still be able to take in things larger than it."
-
Aya:
> "I've heard it's comfy in there, for what it's worth. I've carted around a handful of sleeping folks."
> Look back up at Keiki.
> "Well, in my case, it all grows as things get added to it. Like, even if whatever...entrance, so to speak, you have going right now is small, it would still be able to take in things larger than it."
Aya:
> "Hm, I don't think I'm capable of making something like that... A container that grows as it's filled, allowing more to fill it."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Ah, that's unfortunate. Well, I'd still be interested to see your updated idea come to fruition."
-
Aya:
> "Ah, that's unfortunate. Well, I'd still be interested to see your updated idea come to fruition."
Aya:
> "I might try the larger body route." Keiki comments.
>_
-
Aya:
> Nod.
> "Since I can't see, could you try to fit yourself as things are now?"
-
Aya:
> Nod.
> "Since I can't see, could you try to fit yourself as things are now?"
Aya:
> "Best I can manage is an arm or two."
>_
-
Aya:
> "A couple of arms is still pretty impressive progress. Makes me think you might be able to sort of dive in there from above."
-
Aya:
> "A couple of arms is still pretty impressive progress. Makes me think you might be able to sort of dive in there from above."
Aya:
> "I wouldn't want to break my Mayumi now, either."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, surely she's sturdy enough to withstand that, based on my interactions with her today."
-
Aya:
> "Oh, surely she's sturdy enough to withstand that, based on my interactions with her today."
Aya:
> "Forcing things in isn't the way I want this to go, anyways." Keiki adds.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Understandable. Though, the easier it is for you to get in, the easier it is for anyone else to get in, so if you had to force your way in, so would anyone else coming for you."
> Adopt a thinking expression.
> "Unless you intend to seal yourself inside her? That would be interesting."
-
Aya:
> "Understandable. Though, the easier it is for you to get in, the easier it is for anyone else to get in, so if you had to force your way in, so would anyone else coming for you."
> Adopt a thinking expression.
> "Unless you intend to seal yourself inside her? That would be interesting."
Aya:
> "Lady keiki wouldn't be able to create any more of her amazing creations if she were stuck in me." Mayumi argues.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Sure she could, they'd just also be inside you. I literally had a kappa inventing stuff inside me earlier today."
-
Aya:
> "Sure she could, they'd just also be inside you. I literally had a kappa inventing stuff inside me earlier today."
Aya:
> "Didn't you say you have something that increases in space for each thing put in? And it doesn't even seem like something you yourself can do either." The head speaks. "I don't think the same would work for anyone else unless they were capable of at least that."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh, I assumed Keiki would just grow Mayumi from within, given she said might try the larger body route. Kinda like turning her into a mobile fortress, so to speak."
-
Aya:
> "Oh, I assumed Keiki would just grow Mayumi from within, given she said might try the larger body route. Kinda like turning her into a mobile fortress, so to speak."
Aya:
> "That's easier to do from the outside, though." Keiki answers.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Mmm. Well, it's all speculative in the end anyway. Honestly, what I wanted the most in the immediate was to see you try to get in there."
-
Aya:
> "Mmm. Well, it's all speculative in the end anyway. Honestly, what I wanted the most in the immediate was to see you try to get in there."
Aya:
> "You sure put your desires on your sleeve when interacting with others, huh?" Keiki asks.
>_
-
Seki:
> "That's certainly one way of putting it."
Aya:
> Wink with a grin.
> "What can I say? I know what I want~"
-
Seki:
> "That's certainly one way of putting it."
Aya:
> Wink with a grin.
> "What can I say? I know what I want~"
Aya:
> "Doesn't seem like you're getting it out to others well. That or they're all against what you want." Keiki says.
>_
-
Aya:
> Shrug.
> "Being a journalist is about expecting everyone to resist you at every turn and being pleasantly surprised when it doesn't happen."
-
Aya:
> Shrug.
> "Being a journalist is about expecting everyone to resist you at every turn and being pleasantly surprised when it doesn't happen."
Aya:
> "Good luck, then." Keiki adds.
>_
-
Aya:
> "You as well."
> Look to Seki.
> "Might as well send us back to Okina's space."
Seki:
> Shrug.
> "Sure."
-
Aya:
> "You as well."
> Look to Seki.
> "Might as well send us back to Okina's space."
Seki:
> Shrug.
> "Sure."
> "Take care." Keiki says.
>_
-
Aya:
> Give our hosts a quick wave, then hop in the cart.
Seki:
> Get back in the driver's seat, and then head back to wherever 'Okina Matara' is currently located.
-
Aya:
> Give our hosts a quick wave, then hop in the cart.
Seki:
> Get back in the driver's seat, and then head back to wherever 'Okina Matara' is currently located.
Aya:
> You hop back onto the cart.
Seki:
> You make way for Okina, leaving Keiki and the animal realm behind for now.
> This does seem to be a reliable way to get back to this backdoor realm, with how Okina doesn't seem to be leaving it anytime soon.
> "How was Hell?" Clownpiece questions as you return.
> You think you see some more faces around. Did they finish things here? There's even tea being served!
>_
-
Aya:
> "It could've gone better."
Seki, at the same time:
> "It sucked."
Aya:
> Gesture to our chest.
> "But at least I got a souvenir."
-
Aya:
> "It could've gone better."
Seki, at the same time:
> "It sucked."
Aya:
> Gesture to our chest.
> "But at least I got a souvenir."
Aya:
> "Oh, it's miss vile beast." Flandre speaks up. "Or was it putrid?"
> "Don't just make things up." The horned girl responds.
> "Did you eat so much your tummy exploded? And the rest of you, too?"
> "I'm fine. In fact, I've been feeling better than ever."
> "I can tell, you really lost a lot of weight."
> "You're really picking a fight, aren't you?"
> "Not really, there isn't much more of you to destroy..."
> "Who is this again?" Patchouli questions.
Seki:
> "Are you alright?" Kagerou questions, approaching. "Did you really go to hell like they say?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Look down at the head.
> "I didn't realize you had friends here!"
Seki:
> Hop off the cart.
> Nod at Kagerou.
> "I'll be fine, now that I'm back. And yes, we did. I don't recommend it."
-
Aya:
> Look down at the head.
> "I didn't realize you had friends here!"
Seki:
> Hop off the cart.
> Nod at Kagerou.
> "I'll be fine, now that I'm back. And yes, we did. I don't recommend it."
Aya:
> Flandre flies over, lifting the head off of you.
> "You look like a toy like this." She dangles it.
> "What kind of toys do you have that are shaped like a head?" The head itself asks.
> "More than ones that aren't, at least right now."
> "It's an improvement over previously." Sakuya adds.
Seki:
> You hop off.
> "Did you die?"
>_
-
Aya:
> Look to Patchouli.
> "She's a resident of Hell. She normally has an entire body, but these are special circumstances."
Seki:
> Hold up a finger and a thumb very very close to being pinched together.
-
Aya:
> Look to Patchouli.
> "She's a resident of Hell. She normally has an entire body, but these are special circumstances."
Seki:
> Hold up a finger and a thumb very very close to being pinched together.
Aya:
> "Toutetsu Yuuma." The head speaks. "And I'm not just any resident. I'm the Undefeated Matriarch of the Gouyoku Alliance."
> "And... what's all that mean again?" Flandre questions. "Didn't I defeat you?"
> Yuuma sighs.
Seki:
> "At least you're back now..." Kagerou pats your shoulder.
>_
-
Seki:
> Nod.
> "Yeah."
> Give Kagerou's hand a few gentle pats of thanks.
Aya:
> "I will say, I liked meeting my horse clone. I didn't even know she existed!"
-
Seki:
> Nod.
> "Yeah."
> Give Kagerou's hand a few gentle pats of thanks.
Aya:
> "I will say, I liked meeting my horse clone. I didn't even know she existed!"
Seki:
> "So, what are you up to now?"
Aya:
> "If you're all done down there, we're done up here." Youmu speaks up. "Not sure we could do much about the people themselves, but whatever's been happening to Gensokyo has been stopped."
> "That still leaves Hell and other places, right?" Clownpiece asks.
> "Mhm. I can take care of Makai if that's all the work that was needed for Gensokyo, though." Shinki says.
> "Then master should already be on Hell's case, I think?"
> "I guess I didn't really need to come here, huh?" Yuuma's head questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> Is Reimu here?
> Is Kosuzu here?
> Is Miko here?
> To Yuuma: "Mmm. I suppose not. I do appreciate your company, though."
Seki:
> To Kagerou: "Not dying."
> Look at the others discussing humans.
> "Oh, while I'm thinking about it, there were a lot of human spirits in that Animal Realm place. Way more than usual, I understand. Maybe Yuuma can tell you more?"
-
Aya:
> Is Reimu here?
> Is Kosuzu here?
> Is Miko here?
> To Yuuma: "Mmm. I suppose not. I do appreciate your company, though."
Seki:
> To Kagerou: "Not dying."
> Look at the others discussing humans.
> "Oh, while I'm thinking about it, there were a lot of human spirits in that Animal Realm place. Way more than usual, I understand. Maybe Yuuma can tell you more?"
Aya:
> Yes. Except for Kosuzu.
> "Not like being here does anything bad for me back in the Animal Realm, at least." Yuuma adds.
Seki:
> "Ah, right. It was definitely something weird. Though I think everyone just agreed to strike first and question it later. None of them had any idea what was happening anyways, so we, or at least I figured they weren't from Gensokyo. It was like someone had found another way to reach there and spread the news. Or actually, maybe such a thing opened up somewhere by mistake. Then again, the stream of newcomers was constant, not dipping or rising at any points in these couple of days."
> "Nothing like that's happened in Makai yet. Perhaps it's that afterlife thing, given it's happening in that heaven place too, right?" Shinki questions. "People going to Heaven or Hell when they die."
> "Ah, then is it happening to people not even from Gensokyo?" The Yukari lookalike questions.
> "Probably. There aren't that many humans in Gensokyo alone." Reimu agrees.
>_
-
Aya:
> "And bog-standard humans can't exactly just fly up to Heaven, never mind in as many numbers as they did."
> Wind whisper to Reimu: "Wanna real quick chat later. Not super important."
> Wind whisper to Miko: "Met a friend of yours in the Animal Realm, by the way."
-
Aya:
> "And bog-standard humans can't exactly just fly up to Heaven, never mind in as many numbers as they did."
> Wind whisper to Reimu: "Wanna real quick chat later. Not super important."
> Wind whisper to Miko: "Met a friend of yours in the Animal Realm, by the way."
Aya:
> "So last task should just be figuring out what to do with the people there already and how to-"
> "Good news." Hecatia speaks up, out of nowhere.
> "Master! You're b-"
> "Seems the influx of humans popping up in Hell has stopped for a few minutes now. Could you lot have anything to do with that?"
> "We did finish stopping Gensokyo from meshing with the outside world." Reimu says.
>_
-
Aya:
> Did either of our recipients seem to react at all?
> "Ah, so that was what was decided?"
-
Aya:
> Did either of our recipients seem to react at all?
> "Ah, so that was what was decided?"
Aya:
> Doesn't seem so.
> "Yeah, it was too risky to let things continue on like that." Reimu answers, seemingly ignoring your other comment. "Especially with that coming to light. Though we still have no idea of any culprits. Seems it might just be natural in the end."
> "That could mean that the other places were simply affected due to having a connection to Gensokyo, one way or another, such as the moon and other realms." Kaguya considers. "I wonder how they'll deal with it..."
> "We're still right here." One of the Lunarians speaks. "If it's just work a barrier can handle, then we'll be fine."
>_
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> "I don't like the idea that this was a natural occurrence..."
Seki:
> "Did any humans end up on the moon?"
-
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> "I don't like the idea that this was a natural occurrence..."
Seki:
> "Did any humans end up on the moon?"
Seki:
> "No, aside from a sighting of one, though there were claims that they were possessed by a god, who may have brought them there in the first place." Yorihime says.
Aya:
> "Probably means some people have to do a better job at maintaining Gensokyo..." Youmu comments.
>_
-
Aya:
> Is Yukari present?
-
Aya:
> Is Yukari present?
Aya:
> Yes.
>_
-
Aya:
> Shrug at Youmu.
> "I mean, I wasn't gonna go that far..."
> Look to Yorihime.
> "That's been fixed, at least. I'm not sure how it happened, but even if I knew, it's not my story to tell."
-
Aya:
> Shrug at Youmu.
> "I mean, I wasn't gonna go that far..."
> Look to Yorihime.
> "That's been fixed, at least. I'm not sure how it happened, but even if I knew, it's not my story to tell."
Aya:
> "Hm." She grunts in response, dissatisfied.
> "So you think that isn't the issue?" Youmu asks.
> "You sure are bold today." Mokou comments.
> "I mean, someone should've brought it up." Youmu responds.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I'm not saying it's not the issue. But the people you're talking about are kinda right here with us, and me saying something like that isn't going to make whatever responsibilities they've assigned themselves any easier."
-
Aya:
> "I'm not saying it's not the issue. But the people you're talking about are kinda right here with us, and me saying something like that isn't going to make whatever responsibilities they've assigned themselves any easier."
Aya:
> "And what will they do about it?" Youmu questions.
> "You've grown bolder, but not wiser yet." Yukari comments. "Have you finally started coming of age? Well, you do have a point at least, however, I couldn't do much about it on my own until just recently. I hope you're not too upset. Crying will worry others."
> "So you're saying you were weakened when almost everyone else got stronger from this incident?" Youmu asks.
> "I would say so, yes. Not including the whole flight thing, but many things just wouldn't cooperate with me without taking more steps to do so."
>_
-
Aya:
> ...Come to think of it, when was the last time we saw Kasen?
-
Aya:
> ...Come to think of it, when was the last time we saw Kasen?
Aya:
> It's been a while. Perhaps she's kept herself too busy to socialize.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I can vouch for that, to a degree. Lady Matara too, she can't leave this space anymore. Or couldn't. Maybe that's changed?"
-
Aya:
> "I can vouch for that, to a degree. Lady Matara too, she can't leave this space anymore. Or couldn't. Maybe that's changed?"
Aya:
> A glance her way shows it hasn't as Okina shakes her head.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Mmm, unfortunate. I don't suppose you have any investigable ideas for how to fix it?"
-
Aya:
> "Mmm, unfortunate. I don't suppose you have any investigable ideas for how to fix it?"
Aya:
> "Not really." Okina answers.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Drat."
> Look to Yukari.
> "What about you? Anything I can help with, given my skill set?"
-
Aya:
> "Drat."
> Look to Yukari.
> "What about you? Anything I can help with, given my skill set?"
Aya:
> "My issue just seems to require more effort than normal. It doesn't seem like something that can be "fixed". At least not with how Gensokyo's changed."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Well, I sorta meant anything beyond that immediate issue."
-
Aya:
> "Well, I sorta meant anything beyond that immediate issue."
Aya:
> "Ah. You can just take a break. You've done enough to help already."
>_
-
Aya:
> "Don't mind if I do."
> Look at Reimu pointedly.
> Then look at Miko pointedly.
Seki:
> "...At least I didn't die for nothing, I guess."
-
Aya:
> "Don't mind if I do."
> Look at Reimu pointedly.
> Then look at Miko pointedly.
Seki:
> "...At least I didn't die for nothing, I guess."
Seki:
> "Did anything good happen there at all?" Kagerou questions.
Aya:
> Reimu shrugs and heads for the exit of this realm.
> Miko doesn't follow, however.
>_
-
Seki:
> "...Yuuma's head happened, I suppose."
Aya:
> Follow Reimu.
-
Seki:
> "...Yuuma's head happened, I suppose."
Aya:
> Follow Reimu.
Seki:
> "Kagerou crosses her arms in disappointment.
> "Not even any good encounters. Hm."
Aya:
> You follow Reimu out and into Suzunaan.
> "So, what is it?" Reimu asks.
> You don't see Kosuzu immediately around.
>_
-
Seki:
> "...I guess the idol god wasn't bad."
Aya:
> Nod.
> In a quiet tone: "I wanted to ask how much you trust me around Kosuzu."
-
Seki:
> "...I guess the idol god wasn't bad."
Aya:
> Nod.
> In a quiet tone: "I wanted to ask how much you trust me around Kosuzu."
Seki:
> "You met a god?" Kagerou asks.
Aya:
> "Why are you asking me like I'm Kosuzu's guardian? Or like you're about to try something questionable against her?" Reimu raises an eyebrow.
>_
-
Seki:
> Nod.
> "Yeah."
Aya:
> "Because she's a human villager, and I'm, well...you know. And you basically are her guardian when it comes to matters like me, being both her friend and who you are in general. I don't want to do anything against her, to be clear....Quite the opposite, honestly."
-
Seki:
> Nod.
> "Yeah."
Aya:
> "Because she's a human villager, and I'm, well...you know. And you basically are her guardian when it comes to matters like me, being both her friend and who you are in general. I don't want to do anything against her, to be clear....Quite the opposite, honestly."
Seki:
> "Isn't that good then? You met a god and they were nice, right? If not bad counts as nice. Were you blessed or anything like that? I don't know own how meetings with gods are supposed to go."
Aya:
> "I trust you not to flip out over anything she might say or do, I suppose. And she's capable enough to decide things on her own, I guess."
> Well that certainly sounds like she does want to be a sort of guardian to her, huh...
>_
-
Seki:
> "I don't think I was. Is there some way I could tell?"
Aya:
> Smile.
> "Got it. Thanks, you're a peach."
-
Seki:
> "I don't think I was. Is there some way I could tell?"
Aya:
> Smile.
> "Got it. Thanks, you're a peach."
Seki:
> Kagerou shrugs.
Aya:
> Reimu's face lightens a bit. You suppose she wasnt too thrilled about this recent work.
> "Sure sure. No need to try and flatter me." She waves it off, starting back for the backdoor realm again.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Well, she didn't seem to act like she was blessing me, at least."
Aya:
> Grin a bit.
> "Oh? Does that mean my charm has already won you over~? I would certainly be thrilled to get to know you better..."
-
Seki:
> "Well, she didn't seem to act like she was blessing me, at least."
Aya:
> Grin a bit.
> "Oh? Does that mean my charm has already won you over~? I would certainly be thrilled to get to know you better..."
Seki:
> "How was she nice, then? Maybe that could hint towards whether you were blessed or not."
Aya:
> "Don't bother. I'd rather not have my business in the news every instance anyways."
>_
-
Seki:
> "I mean...she was reasonably polite, like a normal person? She didn't try to kill me, and she had her army general accompany me, as much as that backfired."
Aya:
> "Oh, the business I'm talking about isn't anything to be printed~"
-
Seki:
> "I mean...she was reasonably polite, like a normal person? She didn't try to kill me, and she had her army general accompany me, as much as that backfired."
Aya:
> "Oh, the business I'm talking about isn't anything to be printed~"
Seki:
> "Getting a general to accompany must be worth something, right?" Kagerou insists.
Aya:
> "Doesn't mean you would keep quiet about it either." Reimu heads back into the back...door realm.
>_
-
Seki:
> "I guess. For as much as it didn't last too long..."
Aya:
> Pout.
> "Aww."
> We're still here in Suzunaan, right? Use the winds to see if we can locate Kosuzu.
-
Seki:
> "I guess. For as much as it didn't last too long..."
Aya:
> Pout.
> "Aww."
> We're still here in Suzunaan, right? Use the winds to see if we can locate Kosuzu.
Seki:
> "Hmhm, so there were some good. I'm sure it was better than hanging out here, then."
Aya:
> You try to locate Kosuzu, but either you don't distinguish her of those present, or she's not around.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Still not necessarily worth it."
Aya:
> Call out after Reimu.
> "Before you leave, do you know where she went?"
-
Seki:
> "Still not necessarily worth it."
Aya:
> Call out after Reimu.
> "Before you leave, do you know where she went?"
Seki:
> "But it could've been worse."
Aya:
> "I was gone too. So I wouldn't know." Reimu calls back.
>_
-
Seki:
> "I could have died for no reason, yeah."
Aya:
> "Darn. Okay, thanks."
> Head out from the shop and track down Geidontei.
-
Seki:
> "I could have died for no reason, yeah."
Aya:
> "Darn. Okay, thanks."
> Head out from the shop and track down Geidontei.
Seki:
> "You know, in not sure you even can die. I heard you're like the grim reaper or something. Someone that takes people's souls. No one had any cool names for me."
Aya:
> You head out.
> "So, where are you toting me off to now?" Yuuma's head asks.
>_
-
Seki:
> "I don't think I want to find that out the hard way, is the thing. Especially not in a situation where the likely alternative to death was just being a prisoner forever."
Aya:
> "A bar. One of the workers there is a friend I haven't checked on yet."
> "Your question does make me wonder, though: is there anywhere you'd like to go?"
-
Seki:
> "I don't think I want to find that out the hard way, is the thing. Especially not in a situation where the likely alternative to death was just being a prisoner forever."
Aya:
> "A bar. One of the workers there is a friend I haven't checked on yet."
> "Your question does make me wonder, though: is there anywhere you'd like to go?"
Seki:
> "Hm. Maybe I should go and see who's been treating my friend poorly." Kagerou considers.
Aya:
> "Not now. I was enjoying that previous place a bit."
>_
-
Seki:
> Look worried.
> "Please don't. They're very territorial, and one of them can just outright control you."
Aya:
> "We can go back there after the bar stop if you like. Was all that banter with the younger Scarlet just playful, then?"
-
Seki:
> Look worried.
> "Please don't. They're very territorial, and one of them can just outright control you."
Aya:
> "We can go back there after the bar stop if you like. Was all that banter with the younger Scarlet just playful, then?"
Seki:
> "I've been controlled by instincts and that incident, which I guess you have for the latter, too. But I'm probably resistant enough to controlling by now."
> "That's not really how it works im sure..." Luna comments.
Aya:
> "Ignore that." Yuuma speaks.
> It's taken some searching, but you have find it.
> Unfortunately, it seems closed...
>_
-
Seki:
> Is Hime here?
> "Well, no one knows you better than you, and I can't tell you what to do. But I'll be worrying all of my heads off if you do decide to go."
Aya:
> Knock on whatever solid material is closest to the door.
> "Miyoi! You in there?"
-
Seki:
> Is Hime here?
> "Well, no one knows you better than you, and I can't tell you what to do. But I'll be worrying all of my heads off if you do decide to go."
Aya:
> Knock on whatever solid material is closest to the door.
> "Miyoi! You in there?"
Seki:
> No. You were wondering why Kagerou's arms seemed so empty.
> "Then you'd just have to go with me if I do."
Aya:
> You knock and call out.
> "Eh?" You hear a girl from within for a moment.
>_
-
Seki:
> Look a bit more conflicted.
> "...I mean...I guess that's true..."
Aya:
> Cover Yuuma's ears with our hands.
> Then call out louder at the door: "Miyoi? It's me! Are you okay?"
-
Seki:
> Look a bit more conflicted.
> "...I mean...I guess that's true..."
Aya:
> Cover Yuuma's ears with our hands.
> Then call out louder at the door: "Miyoi? It's me! Are you okay?"
Seki:
> "Maybe we could bring Hime as well." Kagerou speaks.
> "I wonder how you animal youkai would fare in the animal realm?" Youmu considers. "Would it even be anything special?"
Aya:
> You cover Yuuma's ears and yell louder.
> "Miyoi?" You hear the girl again. It doesn't sound like Miyoi...
> A few moments later, the door slides open to reveal a young girl with pink hair, peeking out from within.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Does that tengu count as an animal?"
Aya:
> Does she look familiar?
> Remove our hands from Yuuma's ears.
> "Miyoi Okunoda, yes. I've come to check on her after everything that has happened."
-
Seki:
> "Does that tengu count as an animal?"
Aya:
> Does she look familiar?
> Remove our hands from Yuuma's ears.
> "Miyoi Okunoda, yes. I've come to check on her after everything that has happened."
Seki:
> Youmu shrugs.
Aya:
> Just the hair color. Maybe the face a bit? Nothing else rings any bells though.
> You stop covering Yuuma's ears.
> "You remem-...!" The girl perks up for a moment but calms back down. "She's not around today. I heard they can't get a hold of her. We all hope she's okay..." The girl looks down.
>_
-
Seki:
> Do we remember any water in that place?
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> "That's not good...who's here with you?"
-
Seki:
> Do we remember any water in that place?
Aya:
> Frown a bit.
> "That's not good...who's here with you?"
Seki:
> Yes. Though it was kinda dirty...
Aya:
> The girl looks down, mentally.
> "The owners, of course. I'm here because..." The girl pauses for a bit. "it's dangerous outside for someone little, and without it's staff, the bar can't be a bar well."
> "Don't worry, we're making sure she doesn't see much drinks." You hear a more familiar voice, as a more familiar pink haired maiden opens the door wider. "Do you need a place to sit for a bit?"
> She's still got the hood on, but it's Kasen. Though with the door slid further, you can see Geidontei doesn't look too great from a glance inside. It looks like a fight broke out earlier.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Mmm. Well, from what I remember of the water that was there, it wasn't the cleanest..."
Aya:
> ...does the child look similar to Kasen, maybe?
> Let a very brief look of surprise flash across our face, then return to serious mode.
> "I see. In that case, I appreciate the offer, but I'll be okay. I can think of one place to look for her, at least."
> Look down at Yuuma.
> "Of course, if you want to grab a bite to eat and chat with the locals, I don't mind dropping you off here for a bit."
-
Seki:
> "Mmm. Well, from what I remember of the water that was there, it wasn't the cleanest..."
Aya:
> ...does the child look similar to Kasen, maybe?
> Let a very brief look of surprise flash across our face, then return to serious mode.
> "I see. In that case, I appreciate the offer, but I'll be okay. I can think of one place to look for her, at least."
> Look down at Yuuma.
> "Of course, if you want to grab a bite to eat and chat with the locals, I don't mind dropping you off here for a bit."
Seki:
> "Ah, darn."
Aya:
> No.
> "I'm good." Yuuma responds.
> "Well, stay safe out there, Aya. Something's wrong with Gensokyo..." The girl states.
> "Mm. It's getting solved though." Kasen adds. "Likely thanks to you."
>_
-
Seki:
> "Sorry. I guess she could lay down in the cart?"
Aya:
> Was Suika back in the backdoor realm?
> Give a soft smile.
> "Hardly. I'm just a messenger. Other people are the doers."
-
Seki:
> "Sorry. I guess she could lay down in the cart?"
Aya:
> Was Suika back in the backdoor realm?
> Give a soft smile.
> "Hardly. I'm just a messenger. Other people are the doers."
Seki:
> "I wonder if we could put a bathtub in there." Kagerou considers.
Aya:
> You don't think so. Either she wasn't, or she was and still beat you here. Then again, maybe she split. Either way, you do see her back in there, not helping in cleaning up.
> Your eyes scan what you can see of the interior for Yuugi, but thankfully, you catch no sight of her...
> "Well, you did more than we have." Kasen comments. "A messenger at this time is still very valuable."
>_
-
Seki:
> "Probably. It's roomier than it looks."
Aya:
> "Oh, wait."
> Point at Suika.
> "Never mind, there goes my idea."
-
Seki:
> "Probably. It's roomier than it looks."
Aya:
> "Oh, wait."
> Point at Suika.
> "Never mind, there goes my idea."
Seki:
> "How roomy? Like a bedroom roomy, or even more?" Kagerou asks.
Aya:
> "Hm?" Kasen looks back.
"Hey! Why aren't you helping tidy up!?"
> "We just make a mess again even when we try not to." Suika responds. "It's like this place got cursed. Might as well not try to clean up, at least not yet."
> "But you're only making the situation worse like that. You're just making more of a mess. At least we make some progress with cleaning up, even if some of it gets undone, it's mostly a positive outcome compared to before." Kasen argues.
> "I guess the pub is literally falling apart without Miyoi, haha." Suika jokes.
> "I'll help clean then!" The girl says.
> "It's fine, I've got it. I'd feel bad if you ended up stepping on glass or having something crash onto you." Kasen ruffles the girl's hair, before heading back into the bar to help clean.
>_
-
Seki:
> "I don't really know the details, other than I've had way more people back there than it looks like should be able to fit."
Aya:
> "Alright, I'll leave you all to it. Oh, is Yuugi still underground?"
-
Seki:
> "I don't really know the details, other than I've had way more people back there than it looks like should be able to fit."
Aya:
> "Alright, I'll leave you all to it. Oh, is Yuugi still underground?"
Seki:
> "Should we test it then?" Kagerou asks.
Aya:
> "I believe so." Kasen nods.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Sure. Hop in and we'll go to her."
Aya:
> "Thanks. Good luck!"
> Head back to Suzunaan.
-
Seki:
> "Sure. Hop in and we'll go to her."
Aya:
> "Thanks. Good luck!"
> Head back to Suzunaan.
Seki:
> Kagerou nods, running over to board your cart.
Aya:
> You take your leave, heading back to Suzunaan with less getting lost trying to remember where a place is.
>_
-
Aya:
> Head back into the back door dimension.
-
Aya:
> Head back into the back door dimension.
Aya:
> You return to the realm of backdoors. No one's left yet from a couple minutes ago.
>_
-
Aya:
> What's Seki up to?
-
Aya:
> What's Seki up to?
Aya:
> She and her wolf friend seem to be boarding her vehicle again.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oh hey! Where you off to?"
Seki:
> "Back to the Animal Realm."
-
Aya:
> "Oh hey! Where you off to?"
Seki:
> "Back to the Animal Realm."
Aya:
> "Hime should be near that temple boat at the lake." Kagerou peeks out from the cart. "Otherwise, she's just in the lake itself."
>_
-
Aya:
> Look down at Yuuka.
> "Wanna go see a mermaid?"
-
Aya:
> Look down at Yuuka.
> "Wanna go see a mermaid?"
Aya:
> Yuuma tilts her head a bit.
> "...That was supposed to be a shrug." She speaks after a bit.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Sorry my heads don't have shoulders, I guess."
Aya:
> Hop into the cart.
Seki:
> Assuming Kagerou has also boarded, head to Wakasagihime.
-
Seki:
> "Sorry my heads don't have shoulders, I guess."
Aya:
> Hop into the cart.
Seki:
> Assuming Kagerou has also boarded, head to Wakasagihime.
Aya:
> You board with Yuuma before Sekibanki can leave you behind.
Seki:
> You call out Wakasagihime's name and do the usual.
> There's a bit of a scare as it looks like you'll crash into the water, but your steeds stop just before it.
> Hime pops her upper body out of the water, as if on cue.
>_
-
Seki:
> Give her a wave.
> "Hey, Hime."
-
Seki:
> Give her a wave.
> "Hey, Hime."
Seki:
> "Oh. Hey guys. Isn't everything settling down now? Ah, did you come to hang out?" She asks.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Kagerou wants to give the Animal Realm a piece of her mind."
-
Seki:
> "Kagerou wants to give the Animal Realm a piece of her mind."
Seki:
> "Animal realm?" Wakasagihime questions.
>_
-
Seki:
> Look over at Yuuma's head.
> "Do you want to explain it? It's your home, after all."
-
Seki:
> Look over at Yuuma's head.
> "Do you want to explain it? It's your home, after all."
Seki:
> "It's a place in hell where beasts and animal spirits rule and human spirits are prey." She says. "Mostly because the humans there suck at comparing to the animals. There's a bunch of troublesome groups that give you no chance of rest if you aren't in a big one, and even if you are, you can expect some tricks trying to pull the rug out from under you." Yuuma explains.
> "I see, I see..." Kagerou speaks up. "So a bunch of tricksters were bullying you? If that's the case, we just have to bully them back, right Hime?"
> "Yeah! I've been meaning to try something, actually." The mermaid agrees. Geez, are both of them really that into running straight into hell for revenge? You feel a bit touched, though embarrassed.
> "Heh, that's the kind of spirit you need if you plan on surviving there. ..." Yuuma pauses. "Maybe you should stick to the places you know though..."
Aya:
> Judging from her expression and what she just said, you think she's actually a bit uneasy about them. Seriously? These three aren't much in Gensokyo... You're not sure it's fear, but she doesn't seem as enthusiastic about the idea as just a few seconds ago.
>_
-
Seki:
> "The head resting on those giant pillows over there is the leader of one of the groups, actually. One of the more reasonable ones, which is why she's partially in our company."
Aya:
> "Did you want to hitch a ride in me, Waka? I wouldn't mind going back there, and I should have no problem carrying you along."
-
Seki:
> "The head resting on those giant pillows over there is the leader of one of the groups, actually. One of the more reasonable ones, which is why she's partially in our company."
Aya:
> "Did you want to hitch a ride in me, Waka? I wouldn't mind going back there, and I should have no problem carrying you along."
Seki:
> "Haha, reasonable? Everyone always calls me a dishonest coward. Maybe you just think that since you haven't been on the other end of relations with me yet." Yuuma responds.
Aya:
> "Sure. Don't want to exhaust myself before I get there." The mermaid dips a bit, before jumping out towards you and the others. An impressive jump at that.
>_
-
Aya:
> Is she actually flinging herself at us and currently airborne?
-
Aya:
> Is she actually flinging herself at us and currently airborne?
Aya:
> She's airborne, though at a low angle. Almost like a tackle.
> Actually, you might get tackled off the cart if you don't avoid or catch her...
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oop!"
> Stuff Yuuma's head down into our chest to get her out of the way.
> Then tilt and angle ourselves so Waka is diving right toward our chest, which is open and 'pointing' in her direction.
> "Dive in!"
> As Waka approaches, try to catch her on her sides, but instead of trying to stop her, guide her into our chest so her momentum carries her into us as far as she ends up going.
-
Aya:
> "Oop!"
> Stuff Yuuma's head down into our chest to get her out of the way.
> Then tilt and angle ourselves so Waka is diving right toward our chest, which is open and 'pointing' in her direction.
> "Dive in!"
> As Waka approaches, try to catch her on her sides, but instead of trying to stop her, guide her into our chest so her momentum carries her into us as far as she ends up going.
Aya:
> You stuff Yuuma's head, though the dive doesn't really give you much time to try and catch her so much as just make the entry possible.
> Still, perhaps it was too much of a jump, as you're still launched almost off the cart from catching her and her tail.
>_
-
Aya:
> How much of her did we get into us?
-
Aya:
> How much of her did we get into us?
Aya:
> All, though the tail lagged behind a bit and caused said knockdown.
>_
-
Aya:
> "Oof!"
> Catch and rebalance ourselves as best we're able.
> How large are we now?
Seki:
> Look to Kagerou.
> "Guess we don't need the bathtub now."
-
Aya:
> "Oof!"
> Catch and rebalance ourselves as best we're able.
> How large are we now?
Seki:
> Look to Kagerou.
> "Guess we don't need the bathtub now."
Aya:
> You steady yourself again.
> The mermaid definitely seems larger than a normal person would've been for you. Maybe you could still fit in the interior of the cart, at least.
Seki:
> "Let's get going, then." Kagerou ducks back into the cart. "I want to give these bullies a piece of my mind already."
>_
-
Aya:
> Hop back into the cart.
> Then pull Yuuma's head back out.
> "Sorry. Didn't want you to get hurt."
Seki:
> "Hmmm...who should we go see?"
-
Aya:
> Hop back into the cart.
> Then pull Yuuma's head back out.
> "Sorry. Didn't want you to get hurt."
Seki:
> "Hmmm...who should we go see?"
Aya:
> You pull Yuuma back out.
> "Better than taking that crash I guess."
Seki:
> "Who was the meanest?" Kagerou questions. "We'll start with them, and maybe that'll be enough to teach the others."
>_
-
Seki:
> "...Probably the one that can just straight-up make you do what she wants. She's also not that happy with how long we trespassed in her territory."
-
Seki:
> "...Probably the one that can just straight-up make you do what she wants. She's also not that happy with how long we trespassed in her territory."
Seki:
> "Then that's who we deal with!" Kagerou says.
> You really hope she has some plan and this isn't just a bunch of reckless bravado.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Just to be sure, you have a plan, right?"
Aya:
> Hmm...
> How does our chest compare in size to Kagerou's entire body?
-
Seki:
> "Just to be sure, you have a plan, right?"
Aya:
> Hmm...
> How does our chest compare in size to Kagerou's entire body?
Seki:
> "Yeah, fight first, ask questions later." Kagerou says. "Normally it'd be the other way around, but if we go there looking to cause trouble, she can't make us do something else, right?"
Aya:
> You're not inside the cart, so you can't tell. You're sure it's bigger, though.
>_
-
Seki:
> "She might be able to make you do something, which is why I asked."
Aya:
> Try getting back in the cart.
-
Seki:
> "She might be able to make you do something, which is why I asked."
Aya:
> Try getting back in the cart.
Seki:
> "I won't be convinced otherwise! Not by you, not by Hime, and not by some stranger. Even if it's a mixup and you're actually telling us the wrong person or she feels sorry, I at least want a few good beatings in."
> "Darn it, you're dead set now, aren't you?" Yuuma sighs.
> "Absolutely. I know how it is trying to go up against someone strong. I'll do better this time."
Aya:
> You try to get back in the cart... but you don't think you can fit into it in the first place.
>_
-
Aya:
> We were able to get in the cart while that giant wolf spirit was in our chest, right? Does that mean we're bigger than that now?
> What if we tried backing into the cart and just letting our chest hang out the side? Would that work?
-
Aya:
> We were able to get in the cart while that giant wolf spirit was in our chest, right? Does that mean we're bigger than that now?
> What if we tried backing into the cart and just letting our chest hang out the side? Would that work?
Aya:
> You aren't.
> You could try. You've mostly been riding on top anyways.
> Backing in does seem to work, and even gets your entire size in afterwards.
> Maybe it's similar to the enchantment you have on yourself. You need to start with a small enough point, then can get anything in?
> You have a bit of a weird sensation for a moment. Though maybe it's nothing. Like something being removed. Maybe relief, or a responsibility being lifted? You don't think you've shrunken any or anything like that.
Seki:
> You feel like you're missing something. Or maybe someone. Kagerou is on board, as is Hime, in a way.
> Ah, maybe it's your gut suggesting you get some of the mansion residents for insurance in case things go wrong.
>_
-
Aya:
> Blink.
> "...Did anyone else just feel that?"
> Reposition ourselves into a more comfortable sitting position, lightly squishing our chest into Kagerou to see if/how she reacts.
Seki:
> "...Maybe. Did it feel like you're missing something?"
Aya:
> Does that line up?
-
Aya:
> Blink.
> "...Did anyone else just feel that?"
> Reposition ourselves into a more comfortable sitting position, lightly squishing our chest into Kagerou to see if/how she reacts.
Seki:
> "...Maybe. Did it feel like you're missing something?"
Aya:
> Does that line up?
Aya:
> It does.
> You press against Kagerou.
> "You're nor gonna get in our way or hold us back, right?" She asks.
>_
-
Aya:
> "I wasn't planning on it. Just offering to share myself with you."
> Put on a thoughtful face.
> "Do you feel like we're forgetting something? Or you, Yuuma?"
-
Aya:
> "I wasn't planning on it. Just offering to share myself with you."
> Put on a thoughtful face.
> "Do you feel like we're forgetting something? Or you, Yuuma?"
Aya:
> "Oh. Well, the gesture is appreciated, then." The wolf girl leans against it, like a pillow.
> "Nope. Just not looking too forward to this." Yuuma speaks.
>_
-
Aya:
> Does Kagerou seem remotely interested?
Seki:
> "Why? What's wrong?"
-
Aya:
> Does Kagerou seem remotely interested?
Seki:
> "Why? What's wrong?"
Aya:
> You don't think so from her voice. You suppose she's genuinely thankful, but you don't think she's actually that interested in a way you'd hope.
Seki:
> "You'll see." Yuuma sighs. "Are we g-"
> "Are we gonna get going yet? Not trying to keep us back are you, Banki?" Kagerou asks.
>_
-
Aya:
> What might we be forgetting...? What might have been removed?
> Hmm. What do we remember from our first trip to the Animal Realm?
-
Aya:
> What might we be forgetting...? What might have been removed?
> Hmm. What do we remember from our first trip to the Animal Realm?
Aya:
> You remember everything you should. You feel normal.
> As a matter of fact, you feel more normal than you have been recently. More accurate to a couple of days ago, before the moon situation started.
> You wonder if this means your flying without wings is back...
>_
-
Aya:
> "Wait!"
> Put on a look of suspicion.
> "...I feel normal again."
-
Aya:
> "Wait!"
> Put on a look of suspicion.
> "...I feel normal again."
Aya:
> "I don't notice anything different." Yuuma says. "Your abilities seem the same.
> "Don't think like that. Everyone's special in their own way." Kagerou argues. "Some people say you're the main character of your own story. How more special can you get than that?"
Seki:
> You almost feel like chuckling at such. Just a bit. You're used to not feeling special anyways, if that's what this is about.
>_
-
Aya:
> "No, like...Banki, try flying a head again."
Seki:
> Create a head and toss it into the hair, trying to fly it upward.
-
Aya:
> "No, like...Banki, try flying a head again."
Seki:
> Create a head and toss it into the hair, trying to fly it upward.
Seki:
> You make another head and toss it upwards.
> It flies... until the usual point away from you where it can't anymore, thus falling - until it gets near enough again to that threshold to stay afloat.
> Same as recently... what is it then?
> "Should I ask someone else to take us?" Kagerou questions.
>_
-
Aya:
> Mmm, that looks the same...what could this be, then...?
-
Aya:
> Mmm, that looks the same...what could this be, then...?
Aya:
> You contemplate what's happened since the incident started... if it's something you and Sekibanki share, but not anyone else here...
> could possibly be wanting to resolve the incident. Though that wouldn't make much since. You don't really feel less motivated than normal, if that's really losing your motivation to do something.
>_
-
Seki:
> "Nope, still nothing."
> Unmake the head.
Aya:
> "Darn. I have no idea what this could be, then...anyway, go ahead."
> Squish a little bit more into Kagerou.
Seki:
> Take a deep breath, and then head for 'Yachie Kicchou'.
-
Seki:
> "Nope, still nothing."
> Unmake the head.
Aya:
> "Darn. I have no idea what this could be, then...anyway, go ahead."
> Squish a little bit more into Kagerou.
Seki:
> Take a deep breath, and then head for 'Yachie Kicchou'.
Aya:
> You press against Kagerou a bit more.
> "Don't squish me now." She speaks, thought doesn't push you away.
Seki:
> You unmake your head and head for Yachie, hoping Kagerou isn't just getting you into a bunch of trouble...