> "She is also very close with Yukari Yakumo-sama, whom I suppose might also be able to help. I cannot promise anything in that regard, though."
> "Have you experienced that first-hand, orare you just saying that because it's Yukari-sama?"
> Has Yukari ever been so overt in her dislike of a person?
> Frown.
> "I've never known Yukari-sama to be so open and honest with her opinions of any individual. But very well, it is no trouble at all to not involve her in any way."
> Do we know what Yuyuko thinks of satori youkai?
> "Then we will not involve her at all. Yuyuko-sama's friendship with her shall not be a factor."
> Are we still holding her hand, given we never prompted to let it go and it was never stated to be let go?
> "But what will you do to save yourself, then? You were not even aware of this until I told you."
> "Well, I actually came here today because Yuyuko-sama wishes to host a theatrical performance in this village. I am inspecting the village to make sure there is nothing major going on, dangerous or otherwise, that would interfere with the performance."
> Frown.
> "Patience, please, I am getting there. When I ran down this alley for the first time, I saw no one in it, and yet when I turned around to come back, I saw a door closing. This was curious enough to be worth investigating, so I entered the manor myself and caught a glimpse of your skirt entering the kitchen. I believe you know the rest."
> Sigh.
> "Very well. I was also asked to keep an eye out for you specifically. I was never actually told why, but given how uncomfortably close you are to death, I imagine that must be the reason. A blonde woman with pointed ears and a huge raven youkai woman ask me."
> "They did mention looking for you for years."
> Frown.
> "Come to think of it, if it's really been that long, it wouldn't be because of your deathly aura. You surely would have succumbed by now...what is going on here?"
> "Back where?"
> Blink.
> "But how could they even make you go anywhere or do anything? Surely you could simply disappear and leave them to searching for you blindly."
> "Wow, that's quite the sentiment. What happened at this palace?"
> Have we heard of this place before?
> Do we know anything else about it?
> "Huh. I hadn't heard of that area being any more or less bad than any other part of the underground..."
> "I'm willing to try to understand, if you're willing to tell me about it."
> "'Us'? Is there more than one of you?"
> "Why is your sister still there while you're out here?"
> Give a sympathetic frown.
> "So...you two don't get to see each other anymore, do you?"
> "Is that why they're after you, then, maybe? So the two of you can see each other again?"
> "I can understand feeling that way. But hmmm...how did you and your sister meet last time?"
> "Did you go down there?"
> "So she came up here, then?"
> "I will have to take your word for that, I suppose. But in that case, why not ask those two to serve as messengers?'
> "...There's a lot more to this than what you've told me, isn't there? Between you and them, at least."
> "And I'm guessing an apology wouldn't help?"
> "Well, I can't say for sure if it would be, or if that's even why they're here. But I can't figure out why they'd come here looking for you. If they hold malice for you, they didn't show it at all. They didn't tell me you were dangerous, or that I should use force to stop you. Not that I would have without a really good reason, but still. And if they're here to take you back underground, you've already shown that they can't make you go anywhere or do anything, so why would they waste their time? Basically, if they're not here to make you do something, or make you go somewhere, or to suppress you, it seems really likely that they just have something to tell you."
> "It's not like they could fake an apology to you, either. You'd see right through it."
> "Oh...huh. Well, okay."
> Shrug.
> "Anyway, I obviously don't know what happened between you three. But just based on what I've seen and heard today, I think it's worth at least finding out why they're here. You don't even need them to think you're present for it."
> How long have we been having this conversation?
> Going all the way back to when we first brought Koishi into this alley? It's only been that long?
> "Do you know anyone else that could serve as a messenger for you and your sister?"
> "What about other pets of hers?"
> Frown.
> "So it sounds like your options for messengers are fairly limited."
> "With your options that limited, you may not have a choice. Unless you would rather just not keep in contact with her, but that seems like a very unfortunate result."
> "You sounded unsure, so I just wanted to...sorry for making you focus on this so much."
> How much do we know about Nue Houjuu?
> Nod.
> "All right. Hmm...how about this? If you agree to meet with my mistress about your condition, I could deliver a message to your sister for you, regardless of whatever you decide about those other two."
> Wave to her.
> "Yeah, the occasional glimpse of clothing that just disappears! This is really weird! What exactly is going on here?"
> Shrug.
> "Show you what? I just told you, it disappears! I turn a corner and no one's there! How am I supposed to follow that?"
> Is the mansion door we used earlier :present from our current location?
> Point at the door.
> "I saw a skirt go in that manor a little while ago. But I followed it into a dead end kitchen with no one in it. I thought I'd stick around here to see if I'd see something else."
> Phew, she stuck around.
> Take on a quieter tone.
> "Only as much as necessary."
> "I'm going to keep trying to find out why she's looking for you while you can hear her. If they're here to apologize, then the ball's in your court to do with it what you will. If they're here for another reason, well, we'll just have to work with that if it comes."
> "Of course, you could always follow us around as we look for you. Might make her talk faster if I join the chase."
> "Shall we pretend to look for you, then?"
> Nod.
> "Don't forget my offer."
> Head back to the door of the manor and inspect the ground for footprints.
> Raise our voice a bit above a normal spkeaing voice.
> "No footprints here!"
> "So why exactly are you looking for her, anyway?"
> Head back to where the raven woman is.
> Inspect the ground around us, as well as any nearby manor windows.
> Shake head.
> Follow that raven!
> "So why are you looking for her, anyway?"
> "Yikes...I'm sorry. Are you here to try to bring her home, then?"
>Frown.
>"Sounds like you guys have had things tough."
>"So you just want her to hear you out?"
>"Well, I'll do what I can. She doesn't sound easy to find, especially if she doesn't want to be found."
> "And hopefully she'll be willing to hear whatever it is that you have to say."
>"She obviously means a lot to you if you're willing to go so far for her sake."
> "What do you mean? What more could you have done?"
> Observe with an interested look. This is not our place to interrupt. Not yet, at least.
> Wait, what? We didn't say that just now, that was earlier.
> Blink.
> "...Okay, I'm completely lost. What exactly happened that people, uh, no longer were afraid of the satori?"
> "...Huh? Really? How is that even possible??"
> Being a Netherworld denizen, how familiar are we with the Higan bureaucracy and the celestial system?
> "Wow, that's...incredible! I can't believe such a thing was even possible..."
> Put on a thoughtful face.
> "Yuyuko-sama as a human...well, she's been one before, I guess. Yukari-sama, the Yama, the Dragon, all humans..."
> Wince.
> "Oof. I hope the Yama and the Dragon got job coverage while they were humans."
> "Oh."
> Blink.
> "So did their memories get altered too? Or did they just not notice Gensokyo was suddenly full of only humans?"
> "Well, I know some of the celestials come down to Gensokyo from Bhava-Agra from time to time. Surely one of them would have noticed if they visited at that time. Maybe Tenshi would know?"
> Are there any inherent differences between human and youkai afterlives?
> "Oh, right, sorry. I guess I'm just wondering how everyone's afterlife experience would have been affected by that change. But I guess that's not too relevant."
> Do we remember how Yuyuko acted toward us after that dream?
>Allow these two to finish their heartfelt reunion.
> Did Yuyuko act like we'd been gone for a long time, or was her details-picking more idle curiosity?
> Did she mention we had been gone for any length of time?
> Turn to Utsuho.
> "If I may ask, how and why did you undo this work?"
> Have we ever felt anything like that?
> How much knowledge of/study on mental illness is in Gensokyo?
> "I'm afraid I don't really know what you mean. Was there something tangibly wrong with everything, or what?"
> Frown.
> "Well, that's not very good either."
> Rub chin.
> "Hmm. I wonder if there's a way to meet halfway on this somehow?"
> "Well, the ultimate goal is to make the world so people no longer hate or fear the satori, right? If the tools exist to change all youkai into humans and reshape everyone's memories, maybe something smaller-scale could be done? Like, um, maybe just making it so everyone forgets satori are mind readers?"
> "Oh...so that means no more mind shaping at all?"
> Does the stare look surprised or angry?
> "To be fair, I think most anyone would try, under the circumstances."
> "Anyway, if memory alteration isn't an option, what about the other half, where youkai were turned into humans?"
> "Do you know how it was done the first time?"
> "Did it require the crystal?"
> Isn't it possible for humans to become youkai? Has the reverse ever been documented as possible?
> "Mmm. If Keine was able to undo everything, maybe she'd be able to redo just a tiny bit of it, even without the crystal."
> Make a frustrated face.
> "Is there any other important part of what happened back then that hasn't been mentioned yet? Something that's possibly reproducible?"
> Frown.
> "I think the best place to investigate how to improve the satori's quality of life is to look at the time that came the closest to succeeding. The problem is that I obviously don't know anything about what happened, because it was several years ago and I apparently wasn't even myself."
> Shake head.
> "Even if Koishi did go back, that wouldn't solve the overall problem."
> "Hey, now. I don't know when it will happen, and we're going to try to stop it anyway, right?"
> "Koishi...has an aura of death surrounding her. It is how I was able to find her. My mistress is more qualified to speak on the subject, but I believe it likely means something has been building up within her over the course of time, something that will eventually kill her in a rather sudden way."
> "She looks fine, too, which would suggest against a physical malady. Or, at least, an outward physical malady. Forgive me for how rude this may sound, but...perhaps it is psychological? You seem to have some trouble remembering things, such as your name earlier."
> "Anyway, I still think we should ask Yuyuko-sama about it, once the two of you have decided what you are going to do."
> "...Is this a known issue?"
> "That could be a symptom."
> "...Uh...With all due respect, I think it would really be worth your time to have Yuyuko-sama weigh in on this."
> Is she?
>"At the very least she's good with matters concerning death, and she manages to surprise even me sometimes with what she's capable of in other areas."
>What categories do each of these two fall under for our play recruitment drive?
> "As will I. To the extend I am allowed, anyway."
> "Please."
> Is she still smiling?
> Let this play out.
> Shake head.
> "My current tasks are somewhat lax in scheduling, and in fact may be better accomplished by returning home for a bit."
> "The Netherworld is accessible by normal travel from Gensokyo. There is an entrance near the Prismriver Manor, if either of you have ever been out that way. I should warn you about the staircase, however, it may be preferable to simply fly up it."
> Living beings accompanying us into Hakugyokurou should not be a problem, correct?
> "There should be no other issues."
> Smile to Koishi.
> "Shall we, then?"
> Head off to the Myouren Temple, keeping an eye out for the blonde pointy-eared woman.
> That's an idea, actually. Would Eirin be better suited for this? Or is Koishi's issue more spiritual than physical?
> "She does not appear to have any physical symptoms, aside from some apparent memory issues. I am not sure, but I do think the issue is more spiritual."
> How well-stocked are Hakugyokurou's food stores?
> How much leeway do we have to feed our personal guests?
> Frown.
> "If it is a meal you desire, I can see about putting together something for all of us once we reach our destination."
> "Very well. Do any of you have any remaining business here, or shall we depart?"
> Is Koishi still visible?
> "Let us depart, then."
> Make our way out of the village on foot, then take flight and head back home.
> Is there an obvious path to the west, or its it just unbeaten forest?
> Let's head west through the forest, then, trying not to step on too many crunchy things so as to alert the voices to our presence.
> Investigate! Perhaps Marisa and whoever else have seen our comrades.
> Have we ever seen this activity before?
> Continue observing. There is no need to interrupt.
> Step further into the clearing. Give a small wave to whoever notices us.
> Do we recognize this woman?
> Is she human, youkai, or another species?
> Smile and nod to Marisa.
> "Good day. Marisa. Have my companions perhaps made their way by this place recently?"
> What direction did we travel to get here from the shop?
> "That may very well be them, yes. What notable locations are south of here?"
> Perk up.
> "Really now? How advantageous. Is it marked as such?"
> "I will have to investigate this matter myself soon. I have heard interesting things about Eientei. But first..."
> Turn to the unknown woman.
> "To whom must I apologize for walking in uninvited on their exercise session?"
> "Of course."
> Give Renko a smile and a bow.
> "A pleasure to meet you, Renko. I am Miko, a simple Taoist hermit."
> This would be the divine spirits, perhaps?
> "Ahaha, you mean the mass of divine spirits? That was about the time my companions and I first arrived here, yes."
> "Are you training to become a problem solver yourself, then?"
> "I see! And how much of what there is to do in this land is covered by that 'everything'?"
> "Ah, so you must know much of the land. I may request your services as a guide some day, for myself and my companions. But for now, I think it wise for you to add 'getting yourself some water' to that list of everything you do."
> Quests
> Tap chin thoughtfully.
> "Hmm...if I may, I don't suppose you have found any locations in your travels with doors or furniture that no one could determine how to unlock?"
>Use key with all.
> Turn to Marisa.
> "How about you? Though I suppose someone of your physique would have no issue administering the same solution."
> Nod.
> "I see. Very well, thank you both for your information."
> "Unfortunately, I must continue my pursuit of my companions. But before I leave, Renko, would you mind telling where I may find you again? I do believe I will have many more questions for you."
> Were the empty house and the house with the young girl in red 'just outside' the forest?
> "I did come across a house with a rather artistic flair on the edge of the forest, though no one appeared to be home. Was that one yours?"
> Have we come across any married couples, or even references to married couples, in our short time here?
> How old does Renko look, if we assume her to be a relatively average human (i.e. not having slowed down or stopped her aging)?
> "Ah, good, good! This could be my second opportunity to learn from a married couple today, after speaking at length with Patchouli and her familiar."
> "Anyway, I hope it would not be too much trouble if my companions join me whenever we are able to visit."
> Give a small grin.
> "I am in no position to say if they have official documentation or not, or even if they agreed upon it. But when two people know each other as well as they do, and are such obvious experts in the art of button-pushing, then ceremony and documentation are a mere formality, really."
> Why did we and Tojiko cease the more intimate aspects of our relationship? was it jusg the natural result of following the Tao, or was it more because of the thousand-year layover?
> Chuckle lightly.
> "Now, now. I haven't seen you two converse yet, so for all I know, Patchouli is far better at telling you to not say certain things than she is with her familiar."
> "Then perhaps you have your edge there. But regardless, I must visit Eientei, to see if Futo and Tojiko are there."
> Give a small bow.
> "I will, and thank you. Have a pleasant day, both of you."
> Head westward, look for guide boulders.
> Okay, we were advised to follow the instructions very closely.
> Position ourselves so we are facing the message head-on and it is facing us head-on. Once we are set, go forward, climbing or floating over the boulder as needed to get past it.
> Phew!
> Get right up to the rock, face it head-on like the first large boulder, turn 90 degrees to the left, and head straight forward.
> Inventory
> Place our shaku on the ground, pointing exactly in the direction we are traveling.
> Once this is done, turn to the right.
> "Hello?"
> Is it a voice we recognize?
> How mature does it sound?
> "I am Miko, a simple Taoist hermit. Who are you?"
> "My apologues, but I have not. I have not been here for very long, however."
> Take a brief glance at our shaku to make sure it's still there.
> "I will be sure to keep an ear out for it. Thank you for the warning."
> "I will do my best. Hopefully I will make it to Eientei without meeting it; it would be unfortunate to lose track of the guide rocks. If I do come across it, however, how shall I alert you? It is your game, after all."
> "Well, perhaps I could find you later, somewhere else?"
> "Of course."
> "Are there many on the path indicated by the guide rocks?"
> "Ah, so you can get there on your own? Impressive."
> "I suppose. Though, really, you never know until you try."
> Smile.
> "And you as well. Best of luck in finding your game."
> Reorient our direction based on our shaku, then pick it up and continue onward.
> No sudden movements; we don't need the rabbits thinking we are an enemy, however true or false that may be.
> Calmly make our way forward enough that we can read the signs. Look relatively impassive while doing so.
> Look curiously at the signs.
> "What is happening here?"
> Did anything like this happen in our time?
> Frown.
> "I see..."
> Shake head.
> "No. I had heard of a mansion here in Gensokyo with architecture from my time, so I came to see it for myself. To find it in such a state is..."
> "Ah! Where are my manners?"
> Given Reisen a slight bow.
> "My name is Miko, and I am but a simple Taoist hermit. It is a pleasure to meet you, Reisen."
> Follow!
> "Partially. As I am relatively new to this land, I wish to learn as much as I can about its denizens."
> "What exactly is going on?"
> "Ah. May I assume they have plans to do so without compromising the structural integrity of the building or its foundation?"
> How much knowledge of proper building construction and architecture do we have?
> Who did the foundation planning for the mausoleum?
> "Perhaps the matter of structural integrity could be delegated to a third party architect, then. are there any such individuals in this land? I have found the Human Village has many skilled crafters of various backgrounds."
> "I don't suppose digging outside the walls of the manor is a viable alternative?"
> "Do the indoor burrows need to be permanent? Or are the current lodgings otherwise sufficient?"
> "Are the heads of house actively opposed to the idea, or is the necessary architectural analysis work simply more than they wish to take on?"
> In our experiences as both a Taoist and a Japanese noble with Chinese contacts, what do we know of Chang'e?
> "Hmm...if I may ask a personal question, where do you stand on the issue?"
> Nod with a sympathetic look.
> "You have my sympathies that you were caught in the middle like this."
> Give the trench a casual lookover.
> "A shame that this volume of digging was not enough to satisfy everyone. I do not envy whomever will be tasked with refilling it once the situation is resolved, however."
> Are Reisen's ears different from the ears of the other rabbits on strike?
> "I suppose that is true. Hmm...if I may diverge a bit from the immediate issue, can you tell me the history of this place? I do find it fascinating that it seems to be the only major structure in this land that uses the architectural styles of old."
> "And what about you? You seem to be a figurehead amongst the rabbits, and are apparently on a first-name basis with one of the heads of house."
> ...the moon?
> Were tales of people and rabbits on the moon not just those?
> Blink.
> "...The Moon? Truly? I had thought life on the moon to be mere stories..."
> "Incredible...and your architecture is the same as our was?"
> "You did not mention those other rabbits as being from the moon. Are they natives, then?"
> "Has this issue never arisen before? In all the time this place has been here, that seems rather unusual."
> "Ah, so it is an issue that was resolved once before. Perhaps it is worth investigating what happened back then as a first step toward a new resolution."
> Frown.
> "Curious. Why would she not speak of what happened before? Does she not support the rabbit cause?"
> "Hmm. I suppose silence could be advantageous, in the sense that it adds an aura of mystery to the past, and offers the opposition no opportunity to point at something she says and use it to further their argument."
> Did we ever have to deal with such a large amount of concentrated civil unrest, particularly within our home?
> Could Futo and Tojiko returned to Senkai on their own? Or do they need us to do that?
> Sigh.
> "Well. This certainly is a complicated situation you are all facing. It sounds like negotiations and compromise are going to be necessary...have talks begun in any meaningful capacity?"
> "That makes sense. Ah! I don't suppose you have had any other visitors this day, have you?"
> In which direction did we estimate Futo and Tojiko were traveling from Marisa's house?
> In which direction did we ourselves travel to get from Marisa's house to the first guide boulder?
> Assuming Futo and Tojiko passed by the mouse youkai's shop, and then passed by Marisa's house, what other options were there for directions in which to travel after leaving Marisa's house?
> "Interesting. I am also pursuing my two companions, but if they have not arrived here, then I am suddenly at a loss for where they may have gone."
> "How well do you know the general geography of the land outside of this forest of bamboo?"
> Nod.
> "It is less a matter of getting to a specific place as learning what specific places are worth going to. I have tracked my companions going from the Human Village to the curio shop in the forest to the Kirisame residence, and from there, I came here. However, they have not been here, and they have not been to the Scarlet Devil Mansion. Is there anywhere else notable they may have gone?"
> Could they have returned to Senkai from anywhere, or is there a specific location we prefer?
> "I do believe the Scarlet Devil Mansion gatekeeper mentioned an Alice whose house is visible from her post...perhaps I will venture there next once I am done here, then."
> "Understandably so, given your situation."
> "Regardless, if you need assistance in any capacity, please let me know. I have lived through my fair share of civil unrest."
> "Mmm...how well-versed are the moon's citizens on Earth history?"
> "Have you ever come across an historical figure named Shoutoku-taishi in your studies? This is what many used to call me, back when I ruled over mainland Japan, many years ago."
> Nod.
> "I know a thing or two about proper diplomacy between the ruling class and their citizens due to what I have done in my time. I would be willing to offer both sides experienced advice, should they desire it, on how the situation could be best resolved through compromise."
> "In that case, is there anything else notable about the situation you have not told me?"
> Nod.
> "Then your best bet is for the rabbits to be proactive and produce possible solutions that satisfy the concerns of the heads of house. I am concerned about the sentiments expressed earlier, that the ruling class is solely responsible for this incident. If what you say about past instances of this conflict is true, then there is indeed a valid concern in letting burrows be dug willy-nilly, and that can easily get lost in flaring tempers. If such has not happened already."
> "Do you expect things to simply blow over in a few days, then? This is not meant to imply anything offensive, of course."
> Nod.
> "As is often the case with such protests, and in fact is quite frequently a strategic decision by one side or the other. If your princess and her...ah, pardon, but what position does Eirin hold in this house?"
> "Thank you. If the Princess and her doctor have what they believe to be a valid reason for banning burrowing in the past, they are going to be all the more willing to try the strategy of ignoring this problem until it goes away. Especially if the rabbits make little effort to do anything outside of what they are doing now."
> Nod.
> "Right. It seems a riskier proposition than offering an agreeable solution, though."
> "And even if it succeeds, I would not expect your princess or her doctor to forget how the battle was waged."
> "Which could make the tactic all the more damaging in the long term."
> "You are right to not immediately start negotiations, for precisely the reasons you have given. While I would advise taking as much of the history of this conflict as you have access to into account, it is important to show that this is something that means very much to all of you, and holding out for a notable period of time will do exactly that."
> "However, in the meantime, I would suggest sending someone shrewd and trustworthy to learn what they can from the earth spiders you mentioned. Have a proposal ready for when negotiations begin. If you can have an earth spider architect present at the time to provide on-the-spot analysis of indoor tunneling, all the better."
> "And...be willing to help finance at least part of what your consultant or consultants will ask in compensation for their work. This will further show the importance of the issue to the rabbits, as well as demonstrate desire for a peaceful resolution and a lack of total blame on your princess."
> "With all due respect, history would suggest no architectural experts have been consulted on this issue before."
> "Mmm. If that is the case, then I should also say that you should be prepared for the possibility that your consultant gives you an analysis you do not like."
> "If you could, I would look into that as much as you can, perhaps by consulting your Tewi in private so the air of mystery is not ruined for anyone else."
> "Is there anything else you would like to know?"
> "Are you confident the walls will not metaphorically come crashing down without your presence?"
> "Ah, I see. Yes, that could be problematic. I admit it would be best for your cause if it was you that consulted with the earth spiders, but is there possibly another rabbit that you would trust with this task?"
> Put on a thinky face.
> "Unfortunate. Mmm...how poorly would it reflect on you if I asked for a local's assistance in finding my missing companions?"
> Smile.
> "Splendid. After all, there is a lot of bamboo to search, and I know very little of the area. Even with a guide, such a search is likely to take a long time."
> Let the smile fade a bit.
> "Well, yes, perhaps, but that is not entirely what I was getting at. Regardless, what must we do to see this through?"
> "Why not you yourself?"
> Nod.
> "It is quite all right. My apologies if I was unclear in my suggestions."
> "And, ah, if I may, on the record, the personal goings-on of your house and its denizens are not my business to meddle in, and I have little-to-no preference for whom comes out on top."
> "Thank you for understanding."
> Shrug with a smile.
> "It costs nothing to be pleasant, yes? Your house has a problem I am in a unique position to offer advice on. And, truth be told, my companions and myself benefit from a more peaceful land, so an expedient resolution is worth helping."
> "Of course, but still, the general sentiment remains the same. Particularly if a medic resides here."
> Take another look at the dog.
> "I must say, I find it amusingly interesting that a house of rabbits has a domesticated canine."
> Chuckle.
> "Really now? I wonder what the wolf-eared huntress I met earlier would say if she knew that."
> "She knows of this place and who lives here, though she did mention no desire to visit. I suspect she avoids contact because she fears how the rabbits would react to seeing her."
> "Ah, I see. I will keep your pseudo-pet a secret, then."
> "I do not believe so."
> "Perhaps the part of the bamboo forest closest to the first large guidance boulder?"
> Follow!
> "It seems the most likely place for them to have entered this forest. Though perhaps it would be wiser to search in areas deeper into the forest where they could have gotten lost if they had tried to enter there."
> "Is there anything notable in the immediate vicinity?"
> "Then I suppose it does not matter much which direction we take next, outside of probably avoiding that boulder. Though, before we head any further, I should probably warn you that the huntress I met earlier was chasing a wild boar. It had been caught in one of traps, but managed to escape. We had best keep a wary eye."
> Did FuTojiko have anything notable with them aside from our sword?
> "Hmm. Futo is clothed mostly in white, while Tojiko is clothed mostly in green. Both wear tate eboshi. I do not believe they had anything notable with them, aside from a sheathed sword. Futo may leave footprints, but Tojiko will not."
> Nod.
> "As mentioned, only one set, but it is better than nothing."
> Jerk a thumb at our ghost half.
> "It should be. I'm only half-ghost."
> Where might Yuyuko be at this time of day?
> If we're not sure, is there any way we can quickly find her?
> "Welcome to Hakugyokurou, everyone."
> Are Hakugyokurou's ghosts even capable of that?
> Shake head.
> "It is exceedingly unlikely they would even think of it, never mind wanting to do it. Please, follow me."
> Head toward the southernmost tower.
> Give Yuyuko a bow.
> "Apologies, Yuyuko-sama, but that task is still in progress. My guests are here for a different matter for which I was hoping to consult you."
> Is Koishi still visible?
> "I have not yet had the chance to ask. But yes, I believe some introductions are in order."
> Gesture to the raven woman, the blonde woman, and the satori, in that order.
> "Yuyuko-sama, this is Utsuho, Parsee, and Koishi. It is my understanding that they hail from underground."
> Turn to the other three and indicate Yuyuko in whatever manner is befitting of introducing someone of her position.
> "Honored guests, this is indeed Lady Yuyuko Saigyouji, Ruler of the Netherworld."
> "Actually, Yuyuko-sama, there is a different problem."
> Gesture to Koishi.
> "To make a long story short, in my trip to the Human Village, I came across Koishi, and I noticed that she seems to have an aura of death. None of us can determine why this might be, however."
> "Well, yes. But we could not determine why she is dying. She appears to be in proper physical condition."
> "She seems to be experiencing some memory loss, which is new to her and her friends."
> Brighten a little.
> "Do you have an idea of what is wrong, Yuyuko-sama?"
>"I would if you were going to, but I'm still not sure what the cause is."
> "Do you mean, like...borrowing memories?"
> "...But...how does that even work?"
> Let's watch a little bit of this. We might be a bit over our head right now.
>"If I understand correctly, then I don't think Koishi would be able to remember it."
>"Ah! Would you like some tea while we discuss this?"
>Do we know anyone knowledgeable about thoughts and memories?
>"Hmm, maybe Koishi's sister would have some idea of what to do."
> Look at Koishi's third eye.
> "Or, well, if closing that eye started all of these problems, I can think of one logical solution."
>Frown.
>"Well that's definitely not a good sign."
> "You have tried, then?"
> "So...we need someone better at dealing with thoughts than a satori. Does such a person even exist?"
> Frown.
> "That doesn't really leave us with many options, then, does it?"
> "Well, we only need one feasible one, I guess."
> Deep breath.
> "Okay. If we disregard everything that won't work, we'll only be left with what could, right?"
> "I guess maybe Koishi could undo a lot of it. But that would require knowing exactly what else was done, as well as know how to reverse it, or if it's even possible."
> "And how will that work? Just by doing stuff with people around?"
> "Well, there's us here, at least. No one here hates you."
> Look to Utsuho.
> "With all due respect, I'm not sure now is the time to encourage that again."
> Nod to Koishi.
> "You're welcome. The question does still remain, though, of what you would like to do. We can fire off ideas, but ultimately the decision is yours."
> "I understand. This is...well, it's a really big thing to digest."
> Frown.
> "How are you feeling, anyway? You've kind of had to deal with a lot in the past couple of hours."
> Nod.
> "Being scared is certainly understandable. Just remember that now that we know what's going on, we can work to stop it."
> Oh, right, that.
> What time is it?
> Did we already eat breakfast?
> Did Yuyuko already eat anything?
> Is Yuyuko known for her love of eating?
> "Ah, yes."
> Turn back to Yuyuko.
> "Our guests have not had breakfast yet, due to apparent unfortunate circumstances. May I prepare a meal for them?"
> Where would be the best place to do so?
> Nod.
> "Thank you. Shall we do so now?"
> Wait for a response.
> Do we know how to play?
> "I am sure we could teach them, Yuyuko-sama."
> Nod, then turn to our guests.
> "Of course. Please follow me."
> Lead the way to the third floor area where they can dine.
> Do we normally ask guests what foods they prefer?
> That doesn't mean it wouldn't be polite to ask of someone we've never served before!
> Head into the kitchen and take stock of what we have for mealstuffs.
> Where is the nearest kitchen from here?
> Hurry down to that kitchen and check out the rice availability.
> Look around for the speaker.
> "Yes?"
> How long would it take to get to the Saigyou Ayakashi from here?
> Frown.
> "What do they look like?"
> "I see. I will investigate. In the meantime, can you do me a favor? If there is any rice in this kitchen here, please bring a bag to the kitchen on the third floor of the tower, for my use later. Then please head into the ball room, where Lady Saigyouji is entertaining some guests, and inform her what you have seen, and that I am investigating, but will be back as soon as possible."
> Nod.
> "Thank you for your assistance. Good luck."
> Run to the Saigyou Ayakashi to investigate!
> Continue making our way to Seiga, slowing as we get closer.
> Is she within speaking distance?
> "Oy!"
> Keep making our way to Seiga while continuing to slow down as we get closer.
> Put on a no-nonsense tone.
> "Can I help you?"
> "Perhaps you could help me, then. I don't suppose you would like tell me what just happened here?"
> "That felt like more than just a 'little' anything."
> Look a little taken aback.
> "Um, hello to you too."
>Do we know about Seiga's level of trustworthiness?
>"Stop trying to avoid the question! What were you doing here?"
> "You told me a bunch of stuff that doesn't make sense! How do you taste something by burning a bunch of talismans?"
> Dash over to to cut off Seiga's path to the tree, then turn to face her with the tree at our back.
> "Maybe you're in a sharing mood, then?"
> From which direction is she coming?
> How physically strong are we?
> Where is our ghost half at present?
> Can we shoot bullets from our ghost half?
> How is Yoshika lunging? Is she mostly upright or closer to horizontal?
> We should have a reflexes advantage in a fight with a jiangshi. Let's take advantage of that.
> Change course to the left so we look initially like we're aiming for Yoshika head-on, but keep turning left so we pass by on her other side. Try to grab her leg on our way by.
> Start spinning in whichever directing momentum is currently pulling us, getting our other hand on her leg in the process if it isn't there already. Use all our might to whip Yoshika around in a circle! We might have to tank a few bullets in the process; just gotta grit our teeth and bear it.
> While spinning, locate Seiga and determine how far away she is from us.
> Keep spinning around, lowering her a tiny bit, and see if we can see Seiga as we spin.
> What do we know about how jiangshi work?
> Is Yoshika currently facing toward the sky or the ground?
Bah.
> Whip Yoshika around three more times, then fling her away in the opposite direction of the Saigyou Ayakashi, angled slight toward the ground so she hopefully slides face-first into it.
> Once we've let go, give ourselves a moment to steady ourselves, then turn back around and sprint our way to the Saigyou Ayakashi.
> Take a quick glance back at Yoshika.
> After checking on her status, look upward to see if Seiga flew into the branches or something.
> Run around to the other side of the Saigyou Ayakashi.
> Are we aware of Seiga's hole-making abilities?
> Investigate said hole, then!
> Sorry, Yuyuko-sama, we might not be back as soon as everyone would have hoped.
> Head down the hole.
> Let's go feet-first.
> Is our ghost half capable of lighting up?
> Fire a burst of danmaku straight ahead of us to light the tunnel up.
> Reposition ourselves so we can fly head-first through the tunnel, then take to the air and do so, continuously using danmaku to light our path.
> How much are our swords going to flop around if we shift ourselves?
> How tall are we, in either imperial or metric units?
> How flexible are we? (This doesn't have to be in units.)
> Roll a little bit to the side to unpin Hakurouken, then unsheathe it with the arm whose arm was previously covering it, and slide it a bit down the tunnel until we no longer risk cutting ourselves by rolling into it.
> Roll in either direction enough to unpin Roukanken, then unsheathe it and do the same thing. Try not to wave the blade around too much while doing this; we should be able to just sent it point-first straight down the tunnel.
> Roll or flop over onto our stomach.
> Try to fold our legs under us to the point where our knees are brought to our chest (with our legs bent, of course). If we can do though, wrap our arms around our legs so we're curled up into a ball.
> Float a little bit off the ground.
> While in the air, try to roll-rotate forward, to swing our head underneath out body and out the other side.
> Phew!
> Get back lying flat in our stomach, then resheathe our two swords, twisting as needed so they can actually slide into their sheaths.
> We've wasted a lot of time. Take off flying down the tunnel.
> Oh, right, that.
> Fire some more light-up danmaku ahead of us, to see if the path is clear again.
> Fly on forward, lighting up our path with danmaku as needed to avoid crashing into things.
> That's probably a good sign that we're going to resurface.
> Continue lighting our path as we go along, but keep an ear our for noises when we're not firing.
> Light is good! Go towards the light!
> Look around for Seiga.
> If she isn't immediately visible, ask "Where did the woman in blue go?"
>How much do we know about the Saigyou Ayakashi?
> Look behind us real quick to check that it did indeed close, then turn back around so we're facing down the hallway the way we emerged.
> "Thank you!"
> Run off in the direction we are now facing.
> Quick making holes in our architecture!
> Head into the hole.
> Are we still actually in the hole? If not, maneuver ourselves so we are still in it.
> Is the sitting room door open?
> And there are no holes in the sitting room walls?
> Are there any ghosts nearby?
> How many doors are there in the sitting room?
> Do we recognize where this room is relative to the hallway we were just in?
> Step back into the hallway and keep going.
> This is the hall that ends at the doors to that sitting room, yes?
> Did we pass that one before or after getting to the hole?
> Look up and down the hallway we have come across for any ghosts or large holes.
> "Excuse me! Has anyone seen a woman in blue run by here?"
> "Thank you!"
> Keep heading in that direction.
>Quickly check what's on the other side of the holes.
>"Did anyone go through that hole?"
> Was the door to the claimed bedroom open?
> How many entrances are there to the gallery, not counting the hole?
> Are any of the entrance doors open?
> "Hmm. Did you meet a woman in blue on your way here?"
> Nod.
> "Thank you!"
> Head through the hole into the bedroom, then head out its open door and reassess where we are.
> "Hello. Did a woman in blue come through here?"
> Allow ourselves a small grin. We won't be outsmarted that easily!
> Close the door behind us.
> "Thank you!"
> Motor on down the hall! (Don't run into anyone or knock anything valuable over, of course.)
> Take a look down both directions, looking for Seiga, ghosts, or holes in walls.
> Is south still an option, or have we hit a T?
> Head to the west.
> "Did a women in blue come this way?"
> "Yes, but it will hopefully close up fairly soon. The other one she made in the ground did."
> Peer down the hole.
> We left Yuyuko in the third floor dining room of the southernmost tower, yes?
> "Okay. I need someone to deliver a message to Lady Saigyouji, in the third floor dining room in the southernmost tower. Please tell her I am in pursuit of an intruder, who cast an unknown spell at the base of the Saigyou Ayakashi. If she is still entertaining a raven youkai guest, please ask if this raven youkai can head to the Saigyou Ayakashi and retrieve that intruder's jiangshi minion, who is hostile but not exceedingly dangerous."
> Crawl far enough into the hole to shoot danmaku to light it up.
> Fly down the tunnel, keeping a danmaku stream in front of us to light it up.
> How quickly can we fly in reverse?
> Does the bottom offer a wider area to turn around in?
> Ugh, nothing for it, then.
> Reverse flight direction and head back to the surface. At least we know there's nothing in our way and no turns...
> "Mmm, what is this?"
> Bend down and take a closer look at the stains. Perhaps they are blood?
> Frown.
> "It appears to be blood stains. I hope they come from that boar. The other possibility is not pleasant to think about."
> Do the stains form a trail?
> How fresh do the stains look?
> "These stains seems to form a bit of a trail. Will you join me in following them?"
> Let her approach.
> Indicate the stains with a sweep of the hand.
> "Here."
> Is it?
> Can we even tell cardinal directions in this place?
> "Sadly, I have long since lost any semblance of direction."
> Nod.
> "Thank you. Let us follow this trail, then."
> Track the 'trail' 'south'.
> "Aha."
> Does this red look any fresher?
> Continue following the pseudo-trail of red, using where we've just come from as a guide for where the trail should lead.
> "Mmm, it seems we are getting closer."
> "Assuming we find the injured boar, would you object to suppressing it?"
> "I would call the huntress from earlier to it, if she is in the area."
> "Perhaps. I do know where she will be later, though. But I suppose this whole task does deviate from your purpose for coming out this way, does it not?"
> "Well, ultimately, the huntress's business is her own. But it would also not do to leave an injured boar running around unchecked, for the safety of any that may be in the area, so I suspect it would be beneficial if we were to put it down."
> Nod.
> "Let us continue pursuit, then."
> Continue following the psuedo-trail.
> Point wordlessly at the blood, then investigate the immediate area around it for possibly-trampled foliage and/or more of a blood trail.
> Give a small sigh of relief. At least that more or less confirms that this is the boar and not our friends...
> Is there any pattern to the chewed bamboo?
> Between the direction we've been traveling, the location of the blood stain, and the chewed bamboo, is there any indication as to the direction the bleeding party traveled?
> Might as well go 'ahead', then.
> Stop moving and nod.
> Listen carefully to the sounds of the forest.
> Would removing an earmuff help us hear the forest ambiance better?
> Lift our earmuffs off our ears and relisten.
> Is the headache hers, or ours from removing our headphones?
> Let our eyes light up, so Reisen understands that we hear the grunting noise.
> Try to pick out the direction from which the grunting is coming.
> Replace our earmuffs.
> Did we pick up anything specific from Reisen?
> Does she actively want to die, or does she simply not care if she dies? Or maybe she doesn't think she will die?
> Huh, interesting.
> Well, whatever. Her thoughts are her own.
> Continue heading forward toward the grunting, taking care not to crunch anything underfoot that might alert the boar to our presence.
> Nod and head in that direction, treading as lightly as before.
> Stop where we are. Hold a hand out to our side, palm facing behind us, to indicate Reisen should stop as well.
> Take on a defensive stance and steel ourselves for the arrival of the boar.
> Well, it definitely knows we're here now.
> Take on a low tone.
> "Ready?"
> "To knock it out. Without killing it, if possible."
> Which leg is the trap caught on?
> How densely packed is the bamboo in our current location?
> Do we know what the area to our immediate left looks like?
> Are we still on that hill?
> "Stay alert!"
> Fire a stream on danmaku at the boar's head just a hair to the left of center, then jump to our left if this does little to inhibit its charge.
> Where is Reisen relative to ourselves and the boar?
> "Let's make it use that leg!"
> As we are speaking, float backwards up the hill, keeping in mind what we remember about the slope of the hill to angle ourselves properly. Also, fire a horizontal wave of danmaku, sweeping from our left to our right, in the boar's direction, aimed at boar-head level.
> So our back is currently to that large bamboo stalk?
> How common have low-hanging bamboo branches been in this section of the forest?
> How close is the boar?
> "Okay!"
> We've seen it swing its tusks at us once, so we should have an idea of how quick that action is.
> Given the above, prepare our legs for a strong jump. Then, when the boar is a yard away, leap straight up into the air, using our flight ability to boost our propulsion and get out of the boar's range. Hopefully it'll run face-first into the bamboo stalk behind us.
> Did the stream come from Reisen's direction?
> How far below us is the boar?
> How physically strong are we?
> Is it currently in kicking range, or are our legs already dangling straight down below us?
> How much upward momentum do we have at present? Are we still flying upward, or did we come to a stop?
> Bend our legs as quickly as we can to prepare for a double foot stomp, while flying downward, aiming for the side of the boar that just got blasted.
> Once we've covered the foot of distance between us and the boar before we bent our legs, kick out with the bottoms of our feet at the side of the boar that just got blasted in an effort to keep it off-balance, if not knock it over entirely. Use the kick-back force of the collision to spring back up into the air a bit, backward away from the boar. (If the kick lands true and it feels like we didn't just irritate the boar, turn the jump-back into an aerial backflip for style points.)
> Did it fall on its side?
> If so, did it fall on its injured leg?
> Do we have a wig to put on the pig?
> Fly back down the hill several yards, shooting some danmaku at the injured leg as we pass by. Aim our flight path toward another large bamboo stalk.
> Once we've traveled to that stalk, turn around and reassess the situation.
> Are we strong enough to rip a bamboo stalk out of the ground, or at least in half, to carry around as a hand-held weapon?
> Are there any potential candidate stalks immediately visible?
> Are we currently facing the boar?
>What is the boar doing?
> Are we within its line of vision?
> Are any of the bamboo stalks we see and think are suitable for uprooting near the boar?
> "Please give me a moment!"
> Assuming the boar does not immediately come charging after us, Go for the stalk to our right and uproot it.
> Can we still see the boar?
> How long is our new bamboo weapon? Would it be better wielded as a wooden sword a lance?
> Dash after that boar, gripping the bamboo like a club and ready to swing if the boar comes after us.
>Inwardly curse Futo and Tojiko for taking our sword.
>Whomp the boar on the noggin.
>Quickly put the bamboo between us and the boar and leap backwards into the air again.
>How superhuman is our strength?
>Aim a powerful kick at the boar's face while simultaneously pulling the bamboo toward ourself to get some extra momentum going on.
>Immediately jump back again and abandon the bamboo if we have to.
>How lethal can our danmaku be?
>Can we know any lethal projectile magic?
> Is Reisen anywhere in sight?
> Is the boar facing us?
> How far are we from the boar after the leap back?
> Are its horns curled, curved, or straight?
>Skirt around the boar and try and land a hit on it's wounded leg with our bamboo.
> Has it been able to make any lateral movement while trying to stand?
> Bring the bamboo down hard on the boar's head, right between the eyes. (Try not to stab it with any points ends of the bamboo while doing this, we're only trying to bludgeon it.)
> Do we have a more humane method at our disposal for knocking the boar out? Repeated smacks to the head seems kind of brutal.
> What variety of bullets do we use?
> Do any of our shot types do notably more damage than others?
> Let's pelt it between the eyes with arrowheads before it stops trying to get back up, then.
> Give it a moment, to see if it tries again.
> Nod to the boar.
> "A worthy adversary. A shame fate could not smile upon us all this day."
> "Yes. That was quite the impressive showing on your part."
> "Perhaps. Still, my shots did little more than irritate it."
> "Yours also knocked the beast over."
> How much commotion did this entire encounter cause?
> How much fresh blood is on the trap?
> "This is also true. Perhaps the solution to that problem is in the area? Please pardon my shouting."
> Give Reisen a second to brace herself, then turn the volume up to a controlled shouting level. Aim away from Reisen, to be polite.
> "Huntress! Are you nearby?"
> If we wanted to take the trap off the boar's leg and bring it with us, do we have any way to keep it from bleeding all over the rest of our possessions?
> What about keeping the trap from bleeding all over the place?
> Nod.
> "Perhaps it would be best to remove the trap, and then take our leave. I have no particular desire to carry the boar's body around with me, for a variety of reasons."
> Do we have such a thing?
> "I do not possess such things, sadly. I must admit that there have been many advances in medicine since my time."
> Inventory
> "Do you have any materials for doing so?"
> How poor an idea would it be to remove the trap from the leg without having anything to bandage the wound? What kind of blood loss risk would there be?
> Frown.
> "Neither do I. The only thing I have that is remotely close to a bandage is a change of clothes, and I would rather not use those if I do not absolutely have to."
> What does our dirty change of clothes consist of, precisely?
> Does this include a pair of socks?
> Pull out our dirty socks.
> "Will these do, do you think?"
> What sort of preparation would be best for using our socks to bandage the leg, given the trap is still on it?
> Nod and put the socks away.
> "Then they will have to do. But first, this trap will need to come off."
> Examine the trap. How could we safely remove it from the boar's leg?
> Let's pry it apart, then, being careful to not let it slam shut on our fingers.
> Once it is off the boar's leg, move it away from the boar, and let it close on itself again, again being careful to not let it slam shut on our fingers.
>Provide 'bandages'.
>"Are you experienced with this kind of thing?"
>"Sometimes one just has to make do, especially in the case of medicine."
>Allow her to finish treating the wound.
> Take the trap, wipe the fresh blood off on the grass, and then wrap it in our dirty blouse and store it away.
> "I will hang on to this, in the hopes of returning it to the huntress later."
> "I imagine that if my friends were in the area, they would have heard this commotion and come to investigate. So yes, I believe we can continue on."
> Where did we decide would be the best place to gather information about the mahjong tournament? The Human Village, or elsewhere?
> "At this point, my search for my friends is ostensibly blind. I do want to stop by the Hakurei Shrine to look into this tournament I have heard about, but that is less pressing. Since you were kind enough to join me, I think it is only fair we travel to your destination next."
> Which forest residents did we have in mind?
> Do we know where the entrance to the Underground is?
> Nod.
> "That would do nicely. I believe you have a better grasp of the area than I do, however; may I request you lead the way?"
> Are there any houses nearby?
> What about anything that looks like an underground entrance?
> "Hmm...where are the three locations I mentioned relative to our current position?"
> "Ah, apologies. The underground entrance, Miss Alice's house, and the Hakurei Shrine."
> "If we go ahead, which of those first two will we run across first?"
>"Well, we may as well stop there on the way then. Lead the way, if you will."
> "Curious. What are those things?"
> "Really? How fascinating. What are they usually doing, then?"
> "I see. I wonder if my companions unintentionally caused some alarm here...shall we investigate?"
> Investigate!
> "Has there been trouble here?"
> Frown.
> "I wonder how one is supposed to pass, then. If one even is."
>Call down to the house: "Hello, is anybody home? I am being accosted by your dolls!"
> "My name is Miko. I am but a simple hermit, from an era long past."
> Give Reisen a curious look before heading down to the door and stepping inside.
> "Thank you for your hospitality. And yes, I believe my arrival here caused a little consternation, and introduced me quite directly to Marisa."
> Have a seat on the couch after Reisen does.
> "I am in pursuit of two companions of mine. Unfortunately, I have largely lost track of where they might be, and am now simply searching wherever I can."
> "Yes, and she was most helpful in subduing an enraged boar back in the Bamboo Forest."
> "Ah, is that the reason for the patrol around this house?"
> Frown.
> "Who and when was this?"
> "Can you describe them?"
> Give a deep sigh.
> "As I feared. Those are indeed my companions. I must apologize for their behaviour. I hope not too much damage was done?"
> Does the doll seem to be expecting us to take it, or least offering it in such a fashion?
> Nod to the doll.
> "Ah, thank you."
> Take the cup, then turn back to Alice.
> "I do not know. To be honest, I do not know what your work is, beyond the displays of puppeteering I have seen so far. Did they really try to steal away with some of your dolls?"
> Do we normally take sugar in our tea?
> Take a little bit of sugar and add it to our tea as appropriate, nodding to the nod in thanks.
> "Mmm...may I hazard a guess? Were they peering into one of your windows?"
> Nod.
> "They seem to have made a habit of that this morning. You are, at the very least, the third window they have been noticed peeking through. Not to trivialize the risk of compromising your work, of course."
> Sip.
> "An excellent question indeed. Sadly, I have yet to obtain the answer."
> "I certainly hope not. I would like to think I have provided a better example than that. They have also taken an important possession of mine with them without explanation, a sword that is very dear to me. I suspect that, whatever they are doing peeking into windows, it is related to why they have my sword."
> Sip.
> "That was the sword, yes.Did you happen to notice which way they traveled? I have actually spent a large portion of my morning pursuing them."
> Do we know what is in that direction?
> Look to Reisen with an interested expression.
> "I believe you said that was the direction of the entrance to the Underground, yes?"
> "They may have gone that way. At the very least, it is worth investigating, I think."
> "Your assistance is much appreciated. Thank you."
> Sip, then turn back to Alice.
> "When I have found my companions again, I will bring them back here so they can apologize to you themselves."
> Nod.
> "I will be sure to instruct them as such."
> "Ah, will you be entering?"
>"I've been wondering about the details myself."
> "Mmm. I think it will be worth attending, whether or not I partake. I must admit that Futo is a better player than I. But the chance to see so many people is impossible to pass up."
> How is our tea coming along?
> Do we know exactly what the prize is, beyond 'some lost bit of onmyoudo lore'?
> Sip.
> "Speaking of, have either of you heard much of anything about what can be won? I've heard very little myself."
> "Ooh, interesting. I am sure there are others far better versed in his works than I, but I do know enough to regret he only graced the world a few centuries after I began my hibernation."