Maidens of the Kaleidoscope
~Beyond the Border~ => Rumia's Party Games => Mystia's Stored Games => Topic started by: DracoOmega on September 18, 2011, 08:05:13 AM
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>You are Nazrin, a newly inducted member of the Seeker's Guild, and you are returning from the most grueling mission of your short career.
>While investigating a series of cattle disappearances around the village of Easthaven, you uncovered a nest of giant spiders. Your subsequent investigation of their lair proved a harrowing experience, earning you a multitude of injuries and costing you most of the weapons you brought with you, some of which were borrowed in the first place. You killed a dozen giant spiders, but encountered more besides, as well as a hatchery filled with eggs and juveniles. On top of this, you never managed to locate any living cattle. You expect none are likely to be found there anymore.
>In the process of your search, you encountered a spider youkai who attempted to take revenge for her fallen kin. Your attempts to make peace were rejected, but after a long and arduous confrontation, you managed to injure her heavily and force her to flee. You still hope that some of your entetries may eventually get through to her, or things may go very badly in the future.
>One of the few bright spots of the trip, and likely the reason you are still alive at all, was your discovery of an artifact katana that seems to possess great power against spiders. Its history and exactly how it ended up inside a spider's domain in the first place are still unknown.
>In your previous endeavors, you found and retrieved a cat for a witch named Ellen and were rewarded handsomely for your efforts. You found two stay cats for a group of fairies to adopt as pets. You got into a fight with an oni who was attacking a man outside a restaurant, and assisted Orange in arresting her. You found and delivered a lost fruit shipment to the Melon Bowl in Braston, retrieving it from Cirno, a self-styled swordsman who had driven its rightful owner off in the name of defending her fellows from harm. In the process, you met another fairy named Honeysuckle Dewdrop and adopted her as a sidekick of sorts, with the promise that some day she might be experienced enough to be a sidekick to Cirno. You left her the tutelage of Marisa, who promised to at least try and teach her a few things.
>You are currently under open sky after finally making your way out of the caverns and back onto the surface. Unfortunately, you are also injured, extremely weary, nauseous and believe you are developing a fever...
>Put it out of our mind. Time for fever later. We can be sick once we put some distance between our rodent-backside and all those legs. And we will be sick...
>Look about for anything we can use for a suitable walking stick, and grab it if there is one to be found.
>From where we are, can we figure out where it was that we left that kunai we threw into the ground way back when?
>If that location is more or less in line with the route back to town, head towards that discarded weapon.
>If it isn't, then just back to Easthaven. The sight of a building would be very welcome about now.
>You try to put your many ills out of your mind. This is still no place to rest, so close to the spider caverns. Once you get back to Easthaven, there will be a soft bed and all sorts of comforts awaiting you. You're not sure you have ever been so eager for the embrace of that sleepy place.
>You scan about for a walking stick, selecting a dead fallen branch of roughly suitable size and stripping a few of the excess branches from it. It's not great, but it'll do.
>You have no idea where you are beyond 'among the hills these caverns are in'. The kunai you left in the ground could be in any direction from your current position. You're fairly certain you could find it if you followed your original trail, though.
>For that matter, you can't tell the direction of Easthaven beyond 'somewhere between south and west'. These hills stretch for quite a ways, and you have no easy way of knowing whether you're even close to the entrance you used the last time.
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>Okay, then, point ourselves between south and west and start walking.
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>Also, be on the lookout for sounds of the river. If we find it again, we can use it to orient ourselves.
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>Okay, then, point ourselves between south and west and start walking.
>Also, be on the lookout for sounds of the river. If we find it again, we can use it to orient ourselves.
>You point yourself in the general direction of Easthaven and start walking, keeping an ear out for any sound of the river - encountering it in the forest would be a sure sign that you've gone too far west.
>You slowly work your way down the hillside, taking care not to stumble - this proves to be a more difficult task at this point than you care to admit. Your legs feel weak and unsteady and you sense of balance is... uneven and dulled. Still, you descend into the denser woods at the base of the slopes without incident and keep trudging forward. Despite yourself, you find your pace steadily slowing. Though you long for the comfort of Easthaven with every sinew of your injured body, each step is simply too taxing to speed up. It feels like someone coated all your limbs in lead and then made you run a marathon while sleeping. Your breathing feels labored and your mind is dull and somewhat dizzy. Trees and rocks blur together into a seemingly endless tableaux, and you lose all track of how far you've come. Have you been walking 10 minutes? Or was it 30?
>You touch a hand to your forehead and still have just enough presence of mind to be alarmed at how hot it is.
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>Well, it's not going to get any better without us. Proceed and try to find a familiar landmark. Don't think too hard, just pay attention to the scenery.
>Use the sword as a walking stick to help drag us along.
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>Well, it's not going to get any better without us. Proceed and try to find a familiar landmark. Don't think too hard, just pay attention to the scenery.
>Use the sword as a walking stick to help drag us along.
>You keep trudging forward, hoping to keep enough awareness about you to recognize any familiar landmarks. Otherwise, you let your mind drift; truly, you are uncertain whether you could stop it even if you tried. You mechanically make your way past a blur of nondescript wilderness; nothing among it stands out as distinct. You are uncertain at this point whether you haven't crossed your old path or whether you're simply too disoriented to recognize it. Soon enough you find yourself needing to consult your compass regularly simply to keep moving in a straight line.
>You try using the sword as a walking stick and do find it helpful for a time, but as your balance worsens, it becomes a danger in and of itself. Resting your weight against it in the wrong way results in nearly driving it into your own leg. After that, you stick with just the branch that you gathered for such a purpose. It's a little more awkward, but at least it isn't sharp.
>You can feel you consciousness fading in and out; you've found yourself walking periods with your eyes nearly closed now, becoming aware of this only after tripping over rocks or exposed root. You don't know where you are and barely know where you're going; everything all looks the same.
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>Stop long enough to take a drink from canteen, then pour some water over our head. Can't stop now, might be spiders...
>Press on. As best we can.
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>Talk to ourself.
>"Orange better not have taken my food...Swear I'll break her in three places if she touched that cupboard. Maybe I'll make 'em deal with cats, that's what I'll do. See how they like it..."
>Keep it up. Speech forces some level of wakefulness!
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>Stop long enough to take a drink from canteen, then pour some water over our head. Can't stop now, might be spiders...
>You stop briefly to take a drink from your canteen, gulping the water greedily and then pouring some more over your head. The feel of its cold touch against your burning forehead is almost blissful. You wish you could rest here, but even in your current state, you know it isn't safe.
>Press on. As best we can.
>Talk to ourself.
>"Orange better not have taken my food...Swear I'll break her in three places if she touched that cupboard. Maybe I'll make 'em deal with cats, that's what I'll do. See how they like it..."
>Keep it up. Speech forces some level of wakefulness!
>You press forward, mumbling to yourself as you walk in the hope that it might keep you awake. Words pass your lips, though their meaning seems strange and alien. Why were you talking to yourself again? Your tongue feels thick and heavy and the words start to slur together. Just another few feet and you can be home. Just another few feet and you can... where were you going, again? You feel yourself falling. You never hit the ground.
>You fall, and fall, and fall, until you wonder if you have spent your whole life falling. Broken fragments of sensation tug at the edge of your awareness; voices, sometimes faces, all jumbled and unrecognizable. You feel like some of them are important, but you don't know why. There was something you were supposed to do... Why can't you remember? It's hot; almost too hot to breathe. You need water, but you can't move. Flashes of pain and combat and fear and hatred assail you. And more voices. Why can't you understand them?
>You feel yourself carried away as if by a river, endless and inexorable. You have spent years adrift upon upon it, discordant cries wailing at you from beyond its banks. You want to cover your ears but your limbs are wrapped in silk. And then you fall beneath its surface and drown. And drown. You have spent whole lifetimes drowning, the water in your lungs thick and sticky, like tar. There is no air in the universe; it has all been squelched and you are condemned to gasp for breath until the world ends. Fragments of a thousand splintered faces swirl around you like pieces of a broken mirror, their forms twisted and mocking. From their mouths stream a cacophony of voices: hope and fear and grief and anger and every emotion still allowed to exist compressed into a single sound and damned to be repeated for all eternity. It's too much. It's far too much.You want to scream but your lungs are full of sand.
>You have forgotten who you are. You have forgotten why this even matters. There is nothing in existance but this place, this endless void of dissonance and half-remembered lives. And then the universe slowly falls dark around you. At last, you have been allowed to die.
>Dimly, you become aware of your own consciousness. You can see.... is that the underside of a bunk bed? Your limbs are leaden and you feel deeply weary and disoriented. Something seems to be wrapped tightly around your right hand; you're unsure what it is. Orange light streams into the room from somewhere behind you.
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>Try to sit up, slowly.
>Look around, and try to orient ourselves.
>Do we remember who we are now?
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>"...Mother?
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>Do we remember who we are now?
>Unless something's changed since the last time you were conscious.
>Try to sit up, slowly.
>Look around, and try to orient ourselves.
>You attempt to sit up. While your weariness makes this require a surprising amount of exertion, you manage it well enough.
>Then you look around and try to orient yourself. This... looks like your room, at the orphanage. And-
>"....Nazrin?" comes a tentative voice from beside you. Though her tone is strangely subdued, after all these years you could recognize that voice anywhere. Kneeling at the side of your bed, her hands clasped together in meditation, is Ichirin.
>"...Mother?
>Ichirin looks at you for a moment, her expression strangely hard to read. You can see glimmers of surprise and uncertainty and deep emotion flicker across her eyes and feel more than a little self-conscious, despite yourself. Then Ichirin throws her arms around you and pulls you tight against her.
>"Oh Nazrin..." she says, her voice wavering just a little.
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>Look at Ichirin, start to piece together how we ended up here...
>"Oh crap! How long was I out!?"
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Add before that:
>Close our eyes and bask in the sensation. Then hug her as well, as best as we can.
>"I made it..."
>And when the memories come running back to us; the spiders, the darkness, the river, the youkai, the gas, the long, lonely trip to the sunlight, the fever that claimed us, the nightmare that wracked us. And the fear, the fear of facing our death at every turn. Then we can cry a little, in Ichirin's arms.
>"I really made it."
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>Close our eyes and bask in the sensation. Then hug her as well, as best as we can.
>"I made it..."
>And when the memories come running back to us; the spiders, the darkness, the river, the youkai, the gas, the long, lonely trip to the sunlight, the fever that claimed us, the nightmare that wracked us. And the fear, the fear of facing our death at every turn. Then we can cry a little, in Ichirin's arms.
>"I really made it."
>You close your eyes and accept the embrace. It... feels like home. Though you trained for years so that you could leave this place, never before have you felt more glad to be here. You bring your own arms up to return her hug, only to again notice the odd binding around your right hand. Is that... a hilt you can feel your fingers still wrapped around? You decide to simply hug her with one arm for the moment; that question can just a bit.
>You quietly breathe an acknowledgment of your own existence as the memories of what you've been through floor back to you. You knew what you were getting into when you became a Seeker; you've always known it. And yet... perhaps no matter how much you were aware of the risks, you hadn't truly known it. But you made it back. Despite it all, you made it back. You're determined to emerge the stronger for all that you've been through, but for just this moment... you allow yourself to cry. You can hear Ichirin softly sobbing as well.
>Look at Ichirin, start to piece together how we ended up here...
>"Oh crap! How long was I out!?"
>You remember the chain of events clearly enough to figure out what likely happened. You have no idea how close to Easthaven you were when you passed out, but someone must have found you and brought you here. Whatever sickness you contracted... was clearly very acute.
>"You've been unconscious for..." Ichirin turns her head and looks out the window. "Just over two days now."
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>Ah hell.
>"The spiders! Where?"
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>Ah hell.
>"The spiders! Where?"
>Dammit! You can't afford to have spent all that time unconscious!
>"No one's been hurt while you're been asleep," Ichirin says, smoothing the back of your hair with her hand. "Don't worry."
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>Try to calm ourselves down a bit, but that answer of hers doesn't mean there hasn't been any trouble at all.
>"The spiders... Has there been any sign? I don't know if they followed me, I was so sick...."
>Oh, yeah. Sick.
>"The sword... If it's tied to my hand... Did you do that?"
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>Try to calm ourselves down a bit, but that answer of hers doesn't mean there hasn't been any trouble at all.
>"The spiders... Has there been any sign? I don't know if they followed me, I was so sick...."
>"Don't worry about the spiders," she says. "The Prismrivers volunteered to scout the nearby woods and I've asked Unzan to patrol above the village. No one's seem any of them come here in the last two days."
>"The sword... If it's tied to my hand... Did you do that?"
>Ichirin frowns a little. "You... got much worse when it was taken away from you, so we put it back. There is some aura about it that helps push back the disease... at least a little. It mightn't be necessary anymore; I'm not sure."
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>"Yeah... Found out that little benefit myself. Neat little sword, this. Really saved my tail. 'course, we'll have to see how I... do without, soon."
>How's our breathing? Or nausea? Or that weight on our chest? And we must be starving, for that matter.
>"So... Two whole days, and no sightings?"
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>"Yeah... Found out that little benefit myself. Neat little sword, this. Really saved my tail. 'course, we'll have to see how I... do without, soon."
>How's our breathing? Or nausea? Or that weight on our chest? And we must be starving, for that matter.
>"So... Two whole days, and no sightings?"
>Ichrin frowns slightly and takes a slow, deep breath, then nods.
>Your breathing feels mostly ok; your lungs feel a bit sore and raspy, but your airflow seems fine. You are perhaps slightly nauseous, but this is subsumed in a general sense of weariness and ill-health. Nothing feels profoundly wrong with you, although you wouldn't mind just lying here for a while. Logically, you expect you should be starving, but don't have much appetite.
>"I believe the Prismrivers did encounter some in the forest," she says, "but they've left the village alone."
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>Small sigh of relief. "Well. That's not as bad as it could have been."
>Glance over our body, see how our wounds are healing up.
>"Suppose the next question is, how did I get here?"
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>Small sigh of relief. "Well. That's not as bad as it could have been."
>Glance over our body, see how our wounds are healing up.
>"Suppose the next question is, how did I get here?"
>Ichirin nods, her brow creased with concern. "Indeed. After what happened to you, we've all been vigilant. We don't know what you encountered after you left that second time. Lunasa didn't want to risk venturing too deep towards their lair without hearing what you'd found, first, though some of the villagers have been getting... restless."
>You glance over your body to take stock of your injuries. You are dressed in new and clean bedclothes and the wounds on your arms seem to be mostly healed, though there is still some sign of the deeper ones. You can't see your shoulder at the moment, but it feels like the bandage has been removed from it and you feel no pain there.
>"The Prismrivers found you," she says. "The evening of the day you went missing. When you hadn't shown up by the time their concert was over, they went to look for you. You were in... bad shape," she says, frowning. "But you'd made it almost all the way back to the pasture. I'm just glad they found you when they did."
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>Nod at that sentiment. "I'll buy em a drink when I'm up and about."
>"So, I managed to get that far on my own. Heh." Manage a small smirk. "I'm made of stern stuff." Chuckle, then cough.
>"Hey.... When I was out, did I... talk, in my sleep?"
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>Nod at that sentiment. "I'll buy em a drink when I'm up and about."
>"So, I managed to get that far on my own. Heh." Manage a small smirk. "I'm made of stern stuff." Chuckle, then cough.
>"Hey.... When I was out, did I... talk, in my sleep?"
>Ichirin gives you an odd look, then slowly nods.
>A smile brushes against Ichirin's face, though you can see sadness still in her eyes. "You are a very brave person, Nazrin. And a very strong one. Never doubt it."
>"Nothing anyone could understand," she says, shaking her head.
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>"I remember.... Well, doesn't matter. Was only a dream." A really disturbing one...
>"Tell me, and this might sound strange, but... Has anyone seen a blonde-haired youkai with the spiders?"
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>"I remember.... Well, doesn't matter. Was only a dream." A really disturbing one...
>"Tell me, and this might sound strange, but... Has anyone seen a blonde-haired youkai with the spiders?"
>Ichirin smiles gently and pulls you close again for a moment, but says nothing.
>"A youkai?" she says, frowning. "No, nothing like that."
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>Do we feel awake and aware enough to give Ichirin the gory details of our encounter with the youkai?
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>Do we feel awake and aware enough to give Ichirin the gory details of our encounter with the youkai?
>You think you could, as long as it didn't involve too much running around.
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>"I found more than just giant spiders down there. There was a youkai down there, too. A spider youkai. It was actually her that did the most damage to me. Of course, I did almost as much damage to her, but I've no idea how fast she heals. She hated me so much, I'm almost surprised she didn't chase me out of that god-forsaken hole."
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>"I found more than just giant spiders down there. There was a youkai down there, too. A spider youkai. It was actually her that did the most damage to me. Of course, I did almost as much damage to her, but I've no idea how fast she heals. She hated me so much, I'm almost surprised she didn't chase me out of that god-forsaken hole."
>Ichirin's frown deepens. "What happened between you?"
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>"When I found the spider hole, I got attacked. I mean, obviously, it was a spider's nest, spiders came at me. And I defended myself. I didn't really WANT to kill them, but they left me no choice. I did what I had to do to survive."
>"The youkai didn't see it that way. She accused me of invading her friends' and her home, and murdering her friends, because they were feeding themselves. 'Hunters hunt' she said. I tried to reason her, tell my side. She didn't want to hear it."
>Pause for a moment, remembering her face. Not an easy thing to remember.
>"I've never seen so much hatred in someone's eyes before. She would have torn my heart out..."
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>"I might have not minded tearing her's out, either. She also said things about being driven off, and how it'd never happen again. And she knows that we're not going to to tolerate her behavior for long, I'm half convinced she's going to do something stupid, like try to attack the village first to prove herself 'dominance'. You're sure there's been nothing the past couple days?"
>Back in our day, were there any hunters of note in the village? In particular, anyone skilled at archery?
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>"When I found the spider hole, I got attacked. I mean, obviously, it was a spider's nest, spiders came at me. And I defended myself. I didn't really WANT to kill them, but they left me no choice. I did what I had to do to survive."
>"The youkai didn't see it that way. She accused me of invading her friends' and her home, and murdering her friends, because they were feeding themselves. 'Hunters hunt' she said. I tried to reason her, tell my side. She didn't want to hear it."
>Pause for a moment, remembering her face. Not an easy thing to remember.
>"I've never seen so much hatred in someone's eyes before. She would have torn my heart out..."
>Ichirin nods, her expression creased with attentive concern.
>She lets out a deep breath. "Is that what it was, then?" she asks, seemingly more to the air than to you. A gentle sadness settles onto her face.
>You stop for a moment, thinking back on the youkai's face. You've seen people angry at you before, even vicious; criminals rarely part with their hauls willingly. Marisa may have received the brunt of it before, but you tried your best to be more than JUST a bystander. There was something deeper here, though. The depths of pain and bitter hatred in those eyes...
>"Oh Nazrin..." Ichirin breathes, slowly shaking her head. "This was too much. This was far too much for a few dead cows..."
>"I might have not minded tearing her's out, either. She also said things about being driven off, and how it'd never happen again. And she knows that we're not going to to tolerate her behavior for long, I'm half convinced she's going to do something stupid, like try to attack the village first to prove herself 'dominance'. You're sure there's been nothing the past couple days?"
>Back in our day, were there any hunters of note in the village? In particular, anyone skilled at archery?
>She shakes her head. "I've heard nothing, and I doubt such a thing could stay quiet for long."
>Easthaven has never had a strong hunting tradition; the relative paucity of game animals in the region is thoroughly overshadowed by the tremendous bounty of its agriculture. You know some people did engage in it, but at the moment no names stand out in your mind as especially notable.
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>"She seems to blame us in general for it, and the closest I could guess she meant by that was people who don't live underground; because we've sure not been around long enough for there to be any kind of spider purge. Anyways, the spiders themselves are by and large not that dangerous, at least not to someone who sees them coming and can use a bow or something. But she is. She's horribly dangerous if you're unprepared. If it comes to a fight, I'd consider asking Unzan to handle her. I don't think her webs or her strength mean much to him, would it?"
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>"Well, either that, or there might've been folks living here before this place was ever built, and left long before we got here."
>"Place with good agricultural ability like this wouldn't have gone untouched for long."
>Think for a moment. "..Come to think of it, there was an old Torii near where I found her, so there's probably traces of that possible village there. I did get a reading from there when I dowsed."
>Sigh a little.
>"Now that I'm looking back on all this without all the energy from fighting muddling me up, I'd say that probably only Marisa or Unzan would be able to beat her in an out-and-out fight. All I had going for me was the sword and my wits, and you saw how that worked out."
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>"She seems to blame us in general for it, and the closest I could guess she meant by that was people who don't live underground; because we've sure not been around long enough for there to be any kind of spider purge. Anyways, the spiders themselves are by and large not that dangerous, at least not to someone who sees them coming and can use a bow or something. But she is. She's horribly dangerous if you're unprepared. If it comes to a fight, I'd consider asking Unzan to handle her. I don't think her webs or her strength mean much to him, would it?"
>"Unless there's something magical or spiritual about her webbing. No mundane bindings can hold him. Rest assured that if she tries to harm anyone else in this village, we will be there," she says firmly.
>"Well, either that, or there might've been folks living here before this place was ever built, and left long before we got here."
>"Place with good agricultural ability like this wouldn't have gone untouched for long."
>Think for a moment. "..Come to think of it, there was an old Torii near where I found her, so there's probably traces of that possible village there. I did get a reading from there when I dowsed."
>Sigh a little.
>"Now that I'm looking back on all this without all the energy from fighting muddling me up, I'd say that probably only Marisa or Unzan would be able to beat her in an out-and-out fight. All I had going for me was the sword and my wits, and you saw how that worked out."
>"I've never heard anything about this, if that's true," she says. "No one's found sign of it."
>"Well, Estval hadn't even been discovered until a few centuries ago," she says. "I'm not sure that older airships could even make it across the Great Expanse..."
>"A torii?" Ichirin asks, looking taken back. "Where was this?"
>You sigh.
>Ichirin smiles gently at you, though are those... tears in the corner of her eyes? "I'm sure you did more than anyone could have asked of you, Nazrin. Don't let it weigh upon you."
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>"Well, the place I found her was near the other end of the cave where all the spiders were living, as I mentioned a moment ago. I found her at a bridge across an underground river, and saw it on the other side of the bridge."
>"I'm thinking that if there was a village around here, that cave's the key to getting to it. But we'd have to find some way to deal with ol' eightlegs. I figure there might still be a chance to bring her around like you did with me."
>Smile somewhat. "Afterall, you taught me that."
EDIT: Fix'd.
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I feel like I should point out an apparent misconception here: there was no cavern exit seen on the opposite side of the river. The torii was on a plateau in that direction, on the opposite side of the natural rock bridge, but quite totally underground (by this point you had descended a considerable distance). Nazrin saw no evidence that this area was physically connected to the surface in any way.
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>"It was underground, on the other side of a chasm, with an underground river running through it. I didn't have a chance to get a really good look at it, though, before the youkai attacked me."
>Think back, try to recall all the things she said. all the things she said, running through my head...
>"She mentioning something about a war. And that she wasn't the only one of her kind... Or, rather, that she wasn't always the only one. And that torii could have been down there for ages."
>Gesture to the sword.
>"And then there's this thing. It seems tailor-made to fight spiders. Or, maybe just spider youkai..."
>"Thinking on it, there was something else. She hated me, that's for sure. But I'd be willing to say that she hated this sword even more. And she was afraid of it, too, maybe even more afraid of it that she hated me. Something happened to her, Ichirin. Something bad, something bad to her and her kind. And this sword has something to do with it, I'm sure."
>"But... Maybe... there's still some hope for her." Pause, then swallow, sighing softly. "But I don't want to ask you to do that. She may be too dangeous."
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>"It was underground, on the other side of a chasm, with an underground river running through it. I didn't have a chance to get a really good look at it, though, before the youkai attacked me."
>Think back, try to recall all the things she said. all the things she said, running through my head...
>"She mentioning something about a war. And that she wasn't the only one of her kind... Or, rather, that she wasn't always the only one. And that torii could have been down there for ages."
>Gesture to the sword.
>"And then there's this thing. It seems tailor-made to fight spiders. Or, maybe just spider youkai..."
>"Thinking on it, there was something else. She hated me, that's for sure. But I'd be willing to say that she hated this sword even more. And she was afraid of it, too, maybe even more afraid of it that she hated me. Something happened to her, Ichirin. Something bad, something bad to her and her kind. And this sword has something to do with it, I'm sure."
>"But... Maybe... there's still some hope for her." Pause, then swallow, sighing softly. "But I don't want to ask you to do that. She may be too dangeous."
>Ichirin listens attentively as you explain about the torri and the youkai and what may have happened to her in the distant past.
>"Even after all this, you still want to help her?" she asks.
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>Ah, dammit, sounds sappy when you put it that way.
>"I don't... Yeah. Okay, yeah, I do. Something about the pain her eyes, the fear... The spiders may be animals, but she isn't. She's been... I dunno, 'damaged', I guess."
>"Being here... helped make me what I am, gave me the right start. I don't... think she ever had that. Something hurt her, made her that way. And I thought..."
>May as well say it, Naz.
>"I thought you might be able to help her. Like you helped me. And everyone like me that came across your door."
>Add quickly: "But as I've said, she's dangerous. Maybe more dangerous than any youkai you've ever taken in. She'd be a risk not only to you, but to everyone else here."
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>"Heck, you helped me out. So it's the least I can do for her, it seems like she'd been through a lot long before I showed up."
>"Come to think of it, doesn't it usually take a long time for a normal animal to become a Youkai? For all we know, she might've been a spider from the time they were sealed up down there to begin with.."
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>Ah, dammit, sounds sappy when you put it that way.
>"I don't... Yeah. Okay, yeah, I do. Something about the pain her eyes, the fear... The spiders may be animals, but she isn't. She's been... I dunno, 'damaged', I guess."
>"Being here... helped make me what I am, gave me the right start. I don't... think she ever had that. Something hurt her, made her that way. And I thought..."
>May as well say it, Naz.
>"I thought you might be able to help her. Like you helped me. And everyone like me that came across your door."
>Add quickly: "But as I've said, she's dangerous. Maybe more dangerous than any youkai you've ever taken in. She'd be a risk not only to you, but to everyone else here."
>Dammit, it does, too! She tried to kill you, damn near succeeded more than once, and was an insufferable bonehead the rest of the time. Why do you still care...
>"Oh, Nazrin..." she says after you're done explaining. "You're a truly remarkable person to still be able to mean that. It... warms my heart."
>Ichirin swallows audibly as another tear streams down her cheek. "She... She had something to do with your illness, didn't she?"
>"Heck, you helped me out. So it's the least I can do for her, it seems like she'd been through a lot long before I showed up."
>"Come to think of it, doesn't it usually take a long time for a normal animal to become a Youkai? For all we know, she might've been a spider from the time they were sealed up down there to begin with.."
>"Sealed?" she asks.
-
>"From how she was talking, it's like some folks stuck them all down there and sealed a good lot of 'em in. I'm thinking that maybe her and the spiders might not be the only things down there."
>Shrug.
>"But they're probably deeper in, she seemed fairly intent on me not crossing that bridge. She actually managed to knock me off, but she ended up falling too I think. Probably because of the webs she shot."
>Think for a moment. "Come to think of it, if we ever did manage to get some sense into her, she'd probably be able to make a real mint selling the webs for all sorts of things. She even had webs that could cut, like cheese wire, or piano wire."
>Mmm....try not to get distracted by thinking about cheese.
>"Oh yeah, that was around when i found the sword. It was stuck in the riverbed. From how she was talking, I'm thinking she might've tossed it down there herself. Since she said something like..."
>Do our best impression of her. "Like...uh...ah, I remember some of what she said now. 'This time I'll make sure nobody can find it again.' Seems kind of strange huh?"
>"As for the illness, she might. Though there was this weird fog I encountered that might be the cause too. But for all I know, she might've created it somehow. Maybe it's like my ability to sense treasure and other things of value?"
>Think for a moment more. "If that's the case, then maybe she can control illnesses. She'd be a good doctor if that's true."
-
>"From how she was talking, it's like some folks stuck them all down there and sealed a good lot of 'em in. I'm thinking that maybe her and the spiders might not be the only things down there."
>Shrug.
>"But they're probably deeper in, she seemed fairly intent on me not crossing that bridge. She actually managed to knock me off, but she ended up falling too I think. Probably because of the webs she shot."
>Ichirin nods. "I wonder how long ago this must have been if no one here knew of it?"
>Think for a moment. "Come to think of it, if we ever did manage to get some sense into her, she'd probably be able to make a real mint selling the webs for all sorts of things. She even had webs that could cut, like cheese wire, or piano wire."
>Mmm....try not to get distracted by thinking about cheese.
>You manage to illicit a small chuckle from Ichirin, though there seems to be a strange note of sadness about it, still. "Already thinking of commercializing her? I suppose I should expect nothing less."
>Even with as little appetite as you have, perhaps a little something to munch on wouldn't go astray...
>"Oh yeah, that was around when i found the sword. It was stuck in the riverbed. From how she was talking, I'm thinking she might've tossed it down there herself. Since she said something like..."
>Do our best impression of her. "Like...uh...ah, I remember some of what she said now. 'This time I'll make sure nobody can find it again.' Seems kind of strange huh?"
>"If she was as afraid of it as you say..." Ichirin says. "The aura about it is very powerful; Minoriko said she could feel the faith of many people resting within it, prayers made long ago but still resonating. None of us could read the writing on it, though. Could you?"
>"As for the illness, she might. Though there was this weird fog I encountered that might be the cause too. But for all I know, she might've created it somehow. Maybe it's like my ability to sense treasure and other things of value?"
>Think for a moment more. "If that's the case, then maybe she can control illnesses. She'd be a good doctor if that's true."
>Ichirin takes a deep breath, her expression drawn oddly tight. "How are you feeling now?"
-
>"Hey, it's better than her attacking folks like us for their food. She'd make a lot of guilders, and with those, be able to get the food she wants peacefully."
>Could we read it?
>How do we feel? Good enough to walk?
>"Could probably use a snack, so I guess that means I'm better than I was a while back."
-
>"Hey, it's better than her attacking folks like us for their food. She'd make a lot of guilders, and with those, be able to get the food she wants peacefully."
>Could we read it?
>How do we feel? Good enough to walk?
>"Could probably use a snack, so I guess that means I'm better than I was a while back."
>"Perhaps," she says. "But what of the other spiders?"
>You never took the time to even notice that there was any writing on the sword. You'd been completely in the dark when you first discovered it, and once you had light again, were too occupied with the spider youkai to examine it closely.
>You feel very weary, but otherwise mostly okay. You could probably walk, but you wouldn't want to have to go too far or too fast.
>Ichirin looks at you almost vacantly, as though her eyes were locked on something distant. You can see tears welling up in them again. Then she takes a deep breath and looks up at the ceiling. "Oh Nazrin... Nazin, I'm so sorry."
-
>"That's the whole point. She'd be able to get food for all of them. And all they'd have to do is wait, or make webs to have sold themselves."
>"Hang on, there was writing on that thing? I never noticed that. Maybe Marisa could riddle it out? She always was good at that sort of thing....well, that and accidental job solving via explosions."
>Chuckle a bit, Marisa's always good for a laugh isn't she? "Maybe we oughta send her a letter calling her to give that sword a look. Might give us some clues on this whole thing."
>"Well, you know the old saying, 'Anything you can walk away from.'. And I managed to walk away from all that...even though I ended up dropping a while later. But hey, enough crying over rotten cheese, tears never did suit you that well. Heck, they don't suit anyone very well. Unless they're tears of joy."
>"Besides, I'm feeling better than I was back then at least, so it's a start. Probably couldn't do much right now though, but at least I'm healing, so that's a good thing."
>How long would it take us to fully recover from this?
-
>"That's the whole point. She'd be able to get food for all of them. And all they'd have to do is wait, or make webs to have sold themselves."
>"Hang on, there was writing on that thing? I never noticed that. Maybe Marisa could riddle it out? She always was good at that sort of thing....well, that and accidental job solving via explosions."
>Chuckle a bit, Marisa's always good for a laugh isn't she? "Maybe we oughta send her a letter calling her to give that sword a look. Might give us some clues on this whole thing."
>"Well, you know the old saying, 'Anything you can walk away from.'. And I managed to walk away from all that...even though I ended up dropping a while later. But hey, enough crying over rotten cheese, tears never did suit you that well. Heck, they don't suit anyone very well. Unless they're tears of joy."
>You continue to talk of possibilities for the spider's future, muse about the writing on the sword and have a little chuckle at Marisa. Then you try to brush off your ordeal and get Ichirin to brighten up; you're feeling quite self-conscious over her reaction by now. Yet though it all, she remains focused pointedly on the ceiling, never responding or meeting your gaze. It's... a little unsettling.
>"Besides, I'm feeling better than I was back then at least, so it's a start. Probably couldn't do much right now though, but at least I'm healing, so that's a good thing."
>Ichirin draws in an unsteady breath and slowly looks down again, her eyes holding yours tight. Her cheeks are moist and her lips move as though she were struggling to speak.
>"Nazrin..." she breathes, her voice quaking just a little. "Minoriko says you're dying."
>How long would it take us to fully recover from this?
>That's a... suddenly alarming question. Did... did... you hear that right?
-
>"What?"
-
>"What?"
>"Minoriko says you're dying," she repeats, clearly struggling to keep her composure. Her words come out sounding alien, as if this were still some part of that fevered dream. "You've been blighted."
-
>"But... But I feel better now than I did before."
-
>"But... But I feel better now than I did before."
>Ichrin nods. "And for that I'm truly grateful. We almost lost you already. Minoriko's worked very, very hard to keep you with us, but she said..." She pauses and takes a few more measured breaths. "She said that none of what she'd been able to do was slowing the underlying problem. And that even if you regained consciousness, it... it wouldn't matter; that it was only a matter of time."
-
>"How much time?"
-
>"How much time?"
>"She... wasn't sure," she says. "Maybe a week? Maybe two or three. We fetched a doctor from Braston to look at you, too, but she'd never seen anything like this before in her life. Minoriko recognized it. She's existed a very long time; she said it brought back an old memory..."
-
>"Is that all she said, or did she get into specifics?"
-
>"Is that all she said, or did she get into specifics?"
>Ichirin shakes her head. "Not many. But she said that a long time ago, a great many people died from this. She hadn't been there herself, but she'd seen it in people's prayers. Of course, even in the old days, people didn't pray to her for their own health; their crops were blighted, too. She answered their prayers as best she could, but was powerless to save her worshipers themselves. She wouldn't say much more; prayer is a sacred privacy, and I think she felt she'd already said more than she was comfortable about."
-
>"I'll be fine. I'm a mouse: we don't die from plagues, we spread them."
>Frown.
>"Am I contagious?"
-
>"Fine. I don't need prayers anyway. I need something more useful. Other than crying to gods, did she mention any way to fight this?"
-
>"I'll be fine. I'm a mouse: we don't die from plagues, we spread them."
>Frown.
>"Am I contagious?"
>Your remark draws a weak chuckle from Ichirin and a hint of a smile.
>Then you frown at the thought of what you just said being literally true.
>"She said she doesn't think so. And given how quickly you fell ill, it's likely others would already be sick by now if you were. This is no natural disease; it is born of something almost spiritual and clings viciously to whatever it infects."
>"Fine. I don't need prayers anyway. I need something more useful. Other than crying to gods, did she mention any way to fight this?"
>Ichirin is silent for a moment, before uttering a weak "...no."
>"She's tried everything in her knowledge," she says. "We all have. And checked with doctors and even brought in a priestess. Minoriko was the only one who was able to do anything at all. She..." Ichirin's eyes grow distant; you can practically see the painful memories reflected in them, and hear them clearly in her voice.
>"She tried all the usual remedies, but your fever and breathing kept worsening. Nothing but that sword seemed to make any difference, and even that was far too little. You were dying... quickly. She could feel the faith placed inside the blade, but she couldn't really touch it; every kind of faith and prayer is different and unique, and its domain was not hers. But the faith inside that weapon was pushing against the disease and was the only thing that seemed able to. So she came up with a way that she could tap into that power, just a little."
>"She planted some herb seeds in a pot of soil and placed the blade within it so that its aura could touch upon the earth, then coaxed them to grow. From that, she made medicine infused with the prayers that rest inside that weapon. A few hours later, your fever broke."
>She shakes her head. "But the blight itself barely slowed."
-
>"Then I need to draw on whatever is in the weapon myself, it seems."
-
>"Then I need to draw on whatever is in the weapon myself, it seems."
>"Do you have any idea how?" she says. "No offense intended, but you're not a very... spiritual person."
-
>"I'll probably have to fake it. Hopefully, Minoriko can give me some assistance with that."
-
>"I'll probably have to fake it. Hopefully, Minoriko can give me some assistance with that."
>Ichirin looks at you for a few moments, then slowly nods. "Anything is worth trying."
-
>"I'm hoping it'll agree the enemy of it's enemy is it's friend."
>Look around. Do we see our stuff in here?
-
>"I'm hoping it'll agree the enemy of it's enemy is it's friend."
>Look around. Do we see our stuff in here?
>"I hope so..." she says.
>Your pack, dowsing rods and all, is resting against the wall. You see no sign of your clothing, but after the acid and other damage it may have been a lost cause.
-
>What are we wearing?
-
>What are we wearing?
>A light grey long-sleeved jinbei, more or less your size. Ichirin rarely has a shortage of spare clothes, given the people than have come through this household over the years.
-
>"I suppose I just need to go see Minoriko and see what she has to share. And make an offering of some kind, I suppose."
>Slowly try to get up.
-
>"I suppose I just need to go see Minoriko and see what she has to share. And make an offering of some kind, I suppose."
>Slowly try to get up.
>"She'd probably rather you didn't," Ichirin says, frowning a little. "You know how she is. But I'm sure she'll do whatever she can you help; she'd already worked very hard for your sake."
>You slowly try to rise. Your body feels very heavy, and you probably have another nap right now if you let yourself. Ichirin frowns further.
>"Are you sure you're up for going anywhere yet? I can go and ask her to come here instead."
-
>"... Might not be a bad idea. You can move faster than me now, that's for sure."
>"But... there's probably no rush. The way I feel, I might be out again before you get back."
>"And while it's on my mind, before I go anywhere, I'd like to have that sword bound to my left hand. I am right-handed, after all, I might need it before this is done."
>Look Ichirin in the eyes.
>"And I will find a way to beat this, Ichirin. Minoriko may not be able to do anything else, but if she can't, then there's at least one more lead I can follow. Rinnosuke, the guildmaster. He knows a little bit of anything about everything. I'm betting he knows about this sword, too, and that might point me in the right direction to beat this blight."
-
>"Has Braston been informed of this situation? If nothing else, we should send some word and maybe a rubbing of the words on this sword to the guild master."
-
>"... Might not be a bad idea. You can move faster than me now, that's for sure."
>"But... there's probably no rush. The way I feel, I might be out again before you get back."
>"And while it's on my mind, before I go anywhere, I'd like to have that sword bound to my left hand. I am right-handed, after all, I might need it before this is done."
>She nods slowly.
>"Don't push yourself," she says. "You've already been through so much; let yourself rest a little."
>"Of course I can, if you want me to. Minoriko said that once the medicine took effect, you mightn't need to keep a hold on it the entire time, but..." She frowns slightly. "I suppose she would know..."
>Look Ichirin in the eyes.
>"And I will find a way to beat this, Ichirin. Minoriko may not be able to do anything else, but if she can't, then there's at least one more lead I can follow. Rinnosuke, the guildmaster. He knows a little bit of anything about everything. I'm betting he knows about this sword, too, and that might point me in the right direction to beat this blight."
>You look Ichirin in the eyes and defy this new turn of fate. You're a Seeker. Finding things no one else can is part of the job description. This won't be any different.
>Ichirin holds your gaze tightly, looking past your eyes at something deeper. She is silent for a moment, and then a soft smile warms her face even as her eyes draw tight with sorrow.
>"You're right of course. There must be an answer out there somewhere."
>"Has Braston been informed of this situation? If nothing else, we should send some word and maybe a rubbing of the words on this sword to the guild master."
>Ichirin shakes her head. "Not besides getting the doctor. But I can certainly make a rubbing and find someone who can send it into town straight away, if you think that might help."
-
>Been through so much... Understatement, Ichirin. Just hope things don't get TOO much worse before we find some way to fix this, but we've got some long days ahead.
>"It seems I don't have all that much time to rest. Okay, I might not be much good at the moment, but the minute I can move, you can bet I will."
>"But sending a rubbing ahead of me would be helpful. It'll give Rinnosuke something to start with before I can show him the sword itself. Might not be much, but it's something. At this point, I'll take all the headstart I can get."
-
>Been through so much... Understatement, Ichirin. Just hope things don't get TOO much worse before we find some way to fix this, but we've got some long days ahead.
>"It seems I don't have all that much time to rest. Okay, I might not be much good at the moment, but the minute I can move, you can bet I will."
>"But sending a rubbing ahead of me would be helpful. It'll give Rinnosuke something to start with before I can show him the sword itself. Might not be much, but it's something. At this point, I'll take all the headstart I can get."
>No kidding. It's hard to let yourself rest when the clock is ticking that quickly. Only a couple weeks? Can that really be right? You honestly don't feel that unwell...
>"I don't doubt it for a minute," she says. "But... well, just be as kind on yourself as you still can."
>She nods. "Of course. Whatever I can do, just ask."
-
>"'bout how long should it take to have that rubbing made?"
-
>"'bout how long should it take to have that rubbing made?"
>"I can go fetch some paper and charcoal right away, if you'd like," she says.
-
>"I would. Please."
-
>"I would. Please."
>"Of course," she says, then gets up and briskly exits the room. You can hear her walking down the hallway in the direction of the common area.
-
>Look out the window until she gets back. Dying or no, it's good to see the sun again.
-
>Look out the window until she gets back. Dying or no, it's good to see the sun again.
>You turn your head and look out the window while you wait. It's at the point in the day where the light of the sunset is most brilliant, filling the sky with an orange glow. It looks like it was a somewhat dreary day, though; grey clouds hang torpidly over much of the sky. Everything seems so... normal. It almost feels like it somehow shouldn't.
>After a short time, Ichirin returns with the requested materials in hand.
>"Now, just hold out the sword and let me unwrap it," she says, placing the charcoal and paper on the nightstand. "The inscription is on the hilt."
-
>Do as she says.
-
sorry about vanishing. a few things poped up in life and instead boring you with details, basically was people leaving and me getting a new job. I just start reading back up again.
-
huh that's a wonderful thing to come back to. oh well then. sorry about double post by the way. just noting i finished catching up last night.
-
(Keine apologizes for any headaches this unwinding of history may have caused)
>Do as she says.
>You pull your right arm free of the sheets and extend it. Cloth is wrapped tightly around your hand gripping the hilt and tied, while the blade is also swaddled in thick cloth, no doubt to prevent you from injuring yourself with it while you slept. Ichirin sets to undoing the binding around your hand, unspooling the cloth and then pulling the length of it away. The sudden freedom only highlights how cramped your hand had been. Then she unwinds the layers of cloth sheathing the blade enough to pull them several inches upwards and fully expose the guard.
>As she does this, you become aware of detailing on the guard that you'd been too preoccupied to notice earlier. On both sides of its black surface are lines of what appears to be lettering, cast in gold relief; eight angular spokes of it curve outward from the guard's center to its edge. The more you stare at them, the more they seem suggestive of a spider's form, the contrast of gold and black vaguely reminiscent of the banding on the spider youkai's own arachnid limbs. The characters themselves are smoothly angular and crafted with obvious precision, but utterly unfamiliar to you.
>While you stare at the lettering, Ichirin takes the paper and pulls the blade partially through it such that the guard is full covered by it, then takes charcoal in hand and starts to produce the rubbing. The tight space and interposition of the blade make the process a little awkward, but you can still see traces of the pattern steadily emerging on the paper.
>"I guess you can't read them, either, can you," she says as she works the charcoal against the guard's surface.
huh that's a wonderful thing to come back to. oh well then. sorry about double post by the way. just noting i finished catching up last night.
Welcome back!
-
>"It's not any language I reckognize. Don't think I've ever even seen it before."
>Now that we have more time to sit and think and focus, can we use our treasure sense to determine anything more about the special properties of this sword? Or even what kind of metal it's made from?
>"Kinda gives me a 'spider' vibe, though. Be interesting to see what Rinnosuke makes of this thing. Or Marisa, for that matter, this is the kinda thing a Seeker lives to find." Although hopefully next time we find a treasure like this, the fallout from it will be somewhat less dire.
-
>"It's not any language I reckognize. Don't think I've ever even seen it before."
>Now that we have more time to sit and think and focus, can we use our treasure sense to determine anything more about the special properties of this sword? Or even what kind of metal it's made from?
>"Kinda gives me a 'spider' vibe, though. Be interesting to see what Rinnosuke makes of this thing. Or Marisa, for that matter, this is the kinda thing a Seeker lives to find." Although hopefully next time we find a treasure like this, the fallout from it will be somewhat less dire.
>"Hmmm.... Well, let's hope your guildmaster can recognize it, at least," she says.
>Your treasure sense doesn't enable you to understand the specific nature or magical properties of an object, but simply to detect the presence of something which possesses them. In some ways, you suppose that's similar to being able to identify that there is writing on the sword, without this giving you any idea what it actually says. In terms of materials, you are inclined to think the blade is made of ordinary (though high quality) steel, and the inscription is quite likely real gold, but you could get a more detailed metallurgical profile if you cracked the dowsing rods out. Though that would probably require letting go of your grip on the weapon...
>Ichirin pauses and looks at the rubbing, nearly complete. "Now that you mention it, it does rather look like a spider. And I'm sure this is just the first of many," she adds; something about her words sound strangely wan.
>Ichirin stops and takes another look at her work, then nods and exchanges it for a new piece of paper. She slits it on the blade, then, with somewhat greater awkwardness than the guard's obverse, starts making a rubbing of the other side.
-
>"If I could have stopped the fighting to come, Ichirin, I would have."
>Would we be able to hold a dowsing rod in one hand and the other in our tail, and get the same result as though we'd used two hands?
>No need to tell her to be careful around that blade, Nazrin. Ichirin knows what she's doing.
-
>"If I could have stopped the fighting to come, Ichirin, I would have."
>Would we be able to hold a dowsing rod in one hand and the other in our tail, and get the same result as though we'd used two hands?
>No need to tell her to be careful around that blade, Nazrin. Ichirin knows what she's doing.
>"So... you think it's inevitable that she'll attack here, then?" Ichirin asks, frowning.
>You'd never really given it much thought before. It might be possible to get at least a crude approximation, though it certainly wouldn't be as good as doing it the normal way.
>She does seem to be taking a reasonable degree of caution, and is now working on the side facing the hilt, in any case.
-
>"I.... I don't know. I'm not even sure it's "she" rather than "they". I couldn't determine if she could control the other spiders or not. She might simply have been living with them, a youkai with arachnid roommates. She called them friends, though."
>"Well, either way, whether she's in charge or not, I know she doesn't want to see them dead. Or hungry. She'll only attack people persoanlly if she thinks her friends need food badly. At least, I think so. As for the spiders themselves... I don't know. I'm inclined to think they won't be even that reserved. I think you'll see a lot more of them before the youkai comes out."
>"And there's more than one type of spider, too. There's at least four different types, and two of em have nasty projectiles."
-
>"I.... I don't know. I'm not even sure it's "she" rather than "they". I couldn't determine if she could control the other spiders or not. She might simply have been living with them, a youkai with arachnid roommates. She called them friends, though."
>"Well, either way, whether she's in charge or not, I know she doesn't want to see them dead. Or hungry. She'll only attack people persoanlly if she thinks her friends need food badly. At least, I think so. As for the spiders themselves... I don't know. I'm inclined to think they won't be even that reserved. I think you'll see a lot more of them before the youkai comes out."
>"And there's more than one type of spider, too. There's at least four different types, and three of em have nasty projectiles."
>"It can go both ways," Ichirin says, "though most animal youkai share a kinship with their kind rather than control them. Some can, though..."
>Ichirin frowns. "Unfortunate news, either way. You said you believe she blames all of us for something that happened to her kind, right? If she was as vengeful against you for what you did... what makes you think she mightn't try the same with us?"
>"Minoriko mentioned the acid," she says, "but there are more like that?"
-
>"I don't know that she won't. But with me, it was more personal. She hates surface-dwellers for something from the past, but she had specific reasons to hate me above them all. I was the one that 'invaded her home and murdered her friends, all because they were hungry and ate food'; I was the one carrying that sword that she may have hated even more than me. She has general reasons to hate everyone else, she has speficic reasons to hate me. I don't think she'll be agressive with others as she was with me, and since I'm taking this thing with me, that'll be one less thing around here to enrage her."
>"Besides, if she hated everyone else as much as she did me, I think she would have acted on it by now."
>Fill in Ichirin about the large spiders, the green spiders with the paralytic toxin, the unseen spider with the extremely painful bite we met in the dark of the river, and the glue spitter. Think that covers 'em all.
-
>"I don't know that she won't. But with me, it was more personal. She hates surface-dwellers for something from the past, but she had specific reasons to hate me above them all. I was the one that 'invaded her home and murdered her friends, all because they were hungry and ate food'; I was the one carrying that sword that she may have hated even more than me. She has general reasons to hate everyone else, she has speficic reasons to hate me. I don't think she'll be agressive with others as she was with me, and since I'm taking this thing with me, that'll be one less thing around here to enrage her."
>"Besides, if she hated everyone else as much as she did me, I think she would have acted on it by now."
>Fill in Ichirin about the large spiders, the green spiders with the paralytic toxin, the unseen spider with the extremely painful bite we met in the dark of the river, and the glue spitter. Think that covers 'em all.
>"I only hope so," she says. "We will stop her if she shows herself, but I fear the harm she could do to the villagers if she can..." She pauses and takes a steadying breath, then forces the rest of her words out. "If she can do to them what she did to you."
>"That may be true..." she says, trying to regather her composure. "Though the other spiders haven't shown themselves either. This is longer than it's been between cattle thefts since they first started. I'd like to think this is a good sign, rather than a worrisome one..."
>You detail the various spiders that you've encountered since your investigation began. Ichirin listens attentively as she finishes the rubbing, occasionally asking a question for clarification.
>"I'll make sure to relay all this to Lunasa," she says, once you're finished, "though I imagine she'll want to speak with you in person now that you're back with us. Only once you're feeling up to it, of course," she adds.
-
>"They might be taking time to lick their wounds. There's definately a lot of them, but I know I did some damage."
>From what we know of the Prismrivers, would they be affected by the youkai's gas cloud?
>"Maybe after a few hours nap, then I'll put myself at Lunasa's disposal. That'll give me a chance, too, to recall anything I might've missed." And mull over our current lot.
-
>"They might be taking time to lick their wounds. There's definately a lot of them, but I know I did some damage."
>From what we know of the Prismrivers, would they be affected by the youkai's gas cloud?
>"Maybe after a few hours nap, then I'll put myself at Lunasa's disposal. That'll give me a chance, too, to recall anything I might've missed." And mull over our current lot.
>"Well, whatever the cause, we'll just have to make the best use of this reprieve as we all can. I don't intend to allow anyone else here to get hurt."
>Now that you stop to think of it, you don't believe poltergeists can get sick, at least not from conventional illnesses, although you're not sure of the specifics. They can certainly get drunk, at least...
>"Of course," she says. "Take whatever time you need and I'll let her know."
-
>Take a breath, then look out the window again. If Ichirin had power, this village would be safe forever.
>"I'll look around Braston as well, see if there's some seekers or anyone else that can fight that's available, tell em what's happening out here."
>"And... I think..."
-
>Take a breath, then look out the window again. If Ichirin had power, this village would be safe forever.
>"I'll look around Braston as well, see if there's some seekers or anyone else that can fight that's available, tell em what's happening out here."
>"And... I think..."
>You take a breath and look back out the window; the sun is lower now and its brilliant orange glow is growing duller by the minute. Ichirin certainly has the will; gentle though she may usually be, you know well enough that she can be extremely headstrong when it counts. But with Unzan's help, you think there's a chance that she just might be able to make good on that intention. At least, you'd like to hope that there is.
>"I'll trust your judgement," she says. "We may not have a lot of money to spare, but the lives of the villagers are worth whatever it costs to help ensure their safety."
>Ichirin looks at you expectantly after you trail off.
-
>"Even after...."
>Look her in the eye.
>"I still want you to help her, if you can. Despite... well, this."
-
>"Even after...."
>Look her in the eye.
>"I still want you to help her, if you can. Despite... well, this."
>Ichirin returns your gaze and holds it until it almost becomes uncomfortable. Doubt and grief and strife drift across her features like pale shadows, yet you can see a subtle warmth swell beneath them. Tears well in the corners of her eyes once more.
>"You can still say that and truly mean it?" she asks.
-
>Please don't get emotional again, Ichirin. Not sure I can handle that.
>Simply nod, solemly. "What's the point of me hating her? What's done is done. I mean, she tried to kill me in more ways than this. I beat everything else she threw at me, I'm going to beat this too. And when I do, I'll come back here. I don't... know if she'll forgive me, for what I did. But I'm not gonna waste my time hating her. And if she CAN forgive me... then I want to hear it myself."
-
-Give a giant fairy gummy to Sour, because he that sweet.
-
>Please don't get emotional again, Ichirin. Not sure I can handle that.
>Simply nod, solemly. "What's the point of me hating her? What's done is done. I mean, she tried to kill me in more ways than this. I beat everything else she threw at me, I'm going to beat this too. And when I do, I'll come back here. I don't... know if she'll forgive me, for what I did. But I'm not gonna waste my time hating her. And if she CAN forgive me... then I want to hear it myself."
>Ichirin's lip quivers as you finish, her eyes quickly growing damp with tears. It looks almost as if she were trying to both smile and weep at once. Then she throws her arms around you and holds you close.
>"Oh, Nazrin..." she says, her voice shaking. "I have never been prouder of you than I am right now. Whatever happens."
-
>Ooooh, she got emotional again. Well, we can handle that. ... Maybe we can handle that.
>... Maybe we can't.
>Don't let TOO many tears fall, and try to keep our voice steady and whisper. "I promise I'll come back to you."
-
>Ooooh, she got emotional again. Well, we can handle that. ... Maybe we can handle that.
>... Maybe we can't.
>Don't let TOO many tears fall, and try to keep our voice steady and whisper. "I promise I'll come back to you."
>You try to keep up a stoic front. Even here, even now, you really don't want to start bawling. But it's all just too much; you survive the worst ordeal of your life only to wake up and be told that you might have no more than a week or two to live. And then there's Ichirin... You feel the tears in your own eyes. It's too much...
>Ichirin sobs openly, while you echo her as quietly as you can manage. The two of you stay together like that for a few more moments, her arms warm and protective around you. Then you whisper her a promise. You will survive this, no matter what Minoriko says, no matter what it is that's killing you.
>"I believe you," Ichirin replies.
-
>Stay like this until Ichirin (and us) calm down.
-
>Stay like this until Ichirin (and us) calm down.
>You stay in Ichirin's embrace until the both of you calm down. You manage to quiet your tears before she does, then try to discretely brush them away, though you find yourself still feeling quite unsettled, despite all your pronouncements to the contrary. Eventually Ichirin pauses as well and lets you go. Her face is slick with tears and her eyes are red, though she manages a weak smile beneath it all.
>"Is there anything else I can do for you now?" she asks. "Are you hungry?"
-
>If we are now: "A little, yeah."
>If not: "I'dve thought so, but no. Not really."
-
>If we are now: "A little, yeah."
>If not: "I'dve thought so, but no. Not really."
>You still don't have much appetite, but just enough to ponder if a little something to nibble on mightn't go astray... You say as much and Ichirin nods.
>"Ok, I'll go get you something," she says. "And then did you want me to go get Minoriko, or just let you rest a little more?"
-
>Consider that for a moment. There's an irony here, too. Not a week ago, we were wide eyed and enthusiastic, away from new, a newly-minted seeker, with the fortunes of the world waiting for us to claim them. Now...
>"If what you said earlier was true, then there's probably not much Minoriko can do for me she hasn't already. Tell her thanks for me, by the way. I think I'll just rest, recover my strength. Then I can see Lunasa when I come to, if she wants, and then get back to Braston."
-
>Consider that for a moment. There's an irony here, too. Not a week ago, we were wide eyed and enthusiastic, away from new, a newly-minted seeker, with the fortunes of the world waiting for us to claim them. Now...
>"If what you said earlier was true, then there's probably not much Minoriko can do for me she hasn't already. Tell her thanks for me, by the way. I think I'll just rest, recover my strength. Then I can see Lunasa when I come to, if she wants, and then get back to Braston."
>This has been a brutal and even cruel collision with the flipside of a Seeker's life. On the other hand, you did discover something lost and powerful and probably very old, and soon enough you'll have unearthed a cure to something that baffles even doctors. Or so you try to tell yourself...
>Ichirin nods. "Rest well."
>Then she turns and leaves the room, walking towards the kitchen.
-
>Hold the sword up before us, and quip, "As if I needed any more reason to keep you."
>"Hm... Wonder what you'd say, Honey, if I told you. Would you even really understand?"
>Any sign of that walking stick we grabbed outside the cave?
>Lay back and await luncheon.
-
>Hold the sword up before us, and quip, "As if I needed any more reason to keep you."
>"Hm... Wonder what you'd say, Honey, if I told you. Would you even really understand?"
>Any sign of that walking stick we grabbed outside the cave?
>Lay back and await luncheon.
>You hold the sword up and quip at it. Examining it in this light makes the quality of its craftsmanship all the clearer; it would be an excellent specimen of its art, and probably pretty valuable even without any of its spiritual powers or history. But with them... you imagine it could be worth a great deal of money to the right person.
>Then you think back to a lighter time, only days ago. Somehow it seems far longer than that, now... From your limited experience, while fairies clearly understand pain and unpleasantness in their own unique terms, the concept of death, as it applies to the other races, is something they have a hard time truly understanding. To them, it's just some sort of bigger and longer unpleasantness. But perhaps it's not such a bad thing to not really comprehend this... Right now, you're not sure you want to, either.
>Not that you can see, but it was really little more than a suitably-shaped tree branch; you'd been too out of it to sculpt it more precisely.
>You lay back and enjoy the soft bed beneath you, as much as you can with the thoughts churning through your mind. You are vaguely aware of idle chatter towards the common room, as well as Ichirin working in the kitchen. Your weariness clings heavily to you, but you're far too preoccupied at the moment for it to drag you back into sleep. Soon enough, Ichirin returns bearing a plate with two kinds of cheese and a hunk of bread, as well as a mug of mint tea.
>"Here you are," she says, setting it down on the nightstand.
-
>Speaking of great deals of money, bet someone would pay to know about that torii gate down there. Not sure about sending them into that spider's nest before this particular situation is resolved, but there's still profit to be made, either way. Something to check on back in town.
>"Thanks."
>"Just out of curiousity. Has Shimmer been in to see me since I got back?"
-
>Speaking of great deals of money, bet someone would pay to know about that torii gate down there. Not sure about sending them into that spider's nest before this particular situation is resolved, but there's still profit to be made, either way. Something to check on back in town.
>"Thanks."
>"Just out of curiousity. Has Shimmer been in to see me since I got back?"
>Well, Marisa did say that there was a delegation of archaeologists from the Grand Academy working on a small islet off the north edge of Estval. They'd almost certainly be using Braston as a base of supply and you imagine they would be interested in hearing about this. Of course, academics aren't always the best money, either...
>You thank Ichirin and then inquire about Shimmer.
>"She was actually floating around when they first dragged you in," Ichirin replies, giving you a curious look.
-
>"Was just wondering."
>Have a bite of that bread, then pause.
>"I was... thinking about Honeysuckle, actually. You remember I told you about her? Just wondering what she'd make of this."
-
>"Was just wondering."
>Have a bite of that bread, then pause.
>"I was... thinking about Honeysuckle, actually. You remember I told you about her? Just wondering what she'd make of this."
>You take a bite of the bread, and can practically feel your appetite creeping back into existence as you chew on it.
>Ichirin frowns slightly. "Which part of this?"
-
>As softly as we can, "The dying part."
>"You've housed a number of fairys in your time, right? Don't suppose any of them even talked about it at all."
-
>As softly as we can, "The dying part."
>"You've housed a number of fairys in your time, right? Don't suppose any of them even talked about it at all."
>Ichirin's frown gives way to a hint of a motherly smile.
>"You know that fairies can't die in the same way that the rest of us do," she says. "If they're seriously injured, they just scatter into the air and spring back into existence a little while later. I suppose it's a little like being knocked unconscious," she muses. "But this means that none of them really understand what it's like to fear death. Even if they were to rush headlong into horrible danger, nothing could truly harm them. Most of the time, they'd scatter before they could even feel real pain. That alone would give someone a very different perspective on the world."
>"Of course, many have lived to see others die, whether they were a cute forest creature or a human who used to bake them cookies. On some level, I think they may understand that they're gone for good, but a fairy's memory is..." She pauses, frowning. "Well, perhaps I shouldn't say it's necessarily short, but... ephemeral. They are creatures of the moment, much like the nature they embody. They can certainly cry over losses, even trivial ones, but I don't think they understand true grief as we do; it's simply too anchored in the past. There have probably been exceptions, though; there are as many fairies as there are facets of nature itself."
>"As for Honey... If she really does like you, I imagine she'd be quite upset that you 'got all hurt by nasty things'," she says, doing a reasonable impression of a fairy's tone. "Just because they don't carry grief with them doesn't mean they don't care about people."
>Then she pauses and smiles at you a little. "You really have a soft spot for her, don't you?"
-
>Have a swallow of tea, then offer a wry 'hmph'.
>"More than I thought I ever would."
>Break off a piece of cheese and have a go at it. "Anyone ever tell you you're a wise woman?"
-
>Have a swallow of tea, then offer a wry 'hmph'.
>"More than I thought I ever would."
>Break off a piece of cheese and have a go at it. "Anyone ever tell you you're a wise woman?"
>You take a swallow of tea and offer a nonchalant response, then nibble on some cheese. You probably don't want to eat too much, but this little bit is very satisfying; the tea in particular is warm and soothing on your throat.
>Ichirin chuckles and simply says "Perhaps."
-
>It's true, too. That little fairy seems to have wormed our way into her heart quite well, whether we wanted her there or not.
>"Well... thanks for the wisdom. And the grub."
-
>It's true, too. That little fairy seems to have wormed our way into her heart quite well, whether we wanted her there or not.
>"Well... thanks for the wisdom. And the grub."
>And to think, when you first met she was nothing more than an irritating obstacle to punching that loudmouthed ice fairy in the face...
>"Any time," Ichirin says, rising. "I'll let you get some rest now and go inform Lunasa of what you've told me. And see if I can get these rubbings delivered to your guildmaster immediately."
>"Now remember, be kind to yourself," she chides. "If you need something, don't feel embarrassed giving Manami a shout rather than pushing yourself. She'll be around here for the rest of the evening."
-
>Do we know that name?
>Assuming so, "Gotcha."
>If she then departs, try to rest/sleep as best as we can, given the circumstances, and hope to be more rested and able to travel when next we come to.
-
>Do we know that name?
>Assuming so, "Gotcha."
>If she then departs, try to rest/sleep as best as we can, given the circumstances, and hope to be more rested and able to travel when next we come to.
>You do. She was the eldest of the children you ate breakfast with the other day and someone you remember from your own time living here. She was an even-tempered sort and you got along with her well enough, though she was a fair bit younger than you at the time
>Ichirin gives you a look. "Now, I don't want to hear her tell me otherwise, either."
-
>Chuckle. She's fussing again. But... suppose we can let her.
>"All right, I promise."
-
>Chuckle. She's fussing again. But... suppose we can let her.
>"All right, I promise."
>Ichirin gives you a smile, then nods. "Thank you. Rest well."
>Then with that, she turns and leaves the room.
>You slowly nibble on the rest of your snack until you feel you've had enough, then settle back into bed. Thoughts drift about in your head: memories of your ordeal in the spider caverns, the youkai's fate and the village's future, and above it all, your own affliction and the death-sentence it carries. Despite all that you've said and the conviction that earnestly accompanied it, the thought of having but a few weeks left to live weighs more heavily upon you than all the fatigue in your body. It's nearly too much to take in, too grave to be real. Not in your life, not now. And how many of those weeks would be spent in misery, too infirmed to even act? You know these are useless thoughts and you try to banish them, but they refuse to leave your side for long. Again and again, this tableaux of memories, fears, and possible futures runs through your mind, slowly growing blurred and incoherent.
>At some point you must have fallen asleep, because before you know it, the room is black and Ichirin is by your side once more. You feel barely conscious, peering at her through half-closed eyes. She smiles gently at you.
-
>Does the woman never sleep?
>"'mornin."
>How do we feel?
-
>Does the woman never sleep?
>"'mornin."
>How do we feel?
>Good question. Of course, you have no idea what time of night it is, either.
>"Not morning yet, I'm afraid," she says. "And I'm sorry for waking you, but Minoriko wanted you to take another dose of medicine before the night was out. I've got it here." She holds up a little vial of greenish liquid.
>Very groggy; enough so that it's hard to tell whether you feel any better or not. You don't feel obviously worse, at least.
-
>Groan, then haul ourselves to a sitting up position. "Sure."
>"She still here?"
-
>Groan, then haul ourselves to a sitting up position. "Sure."
>"She still here?"
>You groan and haul yourself upright.
>"Minoriko? No, but she did come and take another look at you a couple hours ago. She was very pleased you seemed to be doing so well."
>Ichirin hands you the vial. "And I brought you a glass of water, too," she says, gesturing to one resting on the nightstand. "You'll probably want something to chase that with."
-
>Half tempted to ask for a shot of something stronger than water, but that might not be such a hot idea.
>"Yeah, good call. When was the last time medicine tasted good. Still, I suppose the doc being pleased is a good sign."
>Down the hatch!
-
>Half tempted to ask for a shot of something stronger than water, but that might not be such a hot idea.
>"Yeah, good call. When was the last time medicine tasted good. Still, I suppose the doc being pleased is a good sign."
>Down the hatch!
>Certainly not when you're already an inch from sleep.
>Ichirin nods.
>You take the stopper off the vial and down the contents in one gulp. It is a fairly thick fluid with a hint of texture to it and a very pungent earthy taste. It's... a little icky and bitter, though not as bad as you might have expected. Still, you're happy enough to take that drink of water afterwards.
-
>Small cough. "I've had worse."
-
>Small cough. "I've had worse."
>"That's good," she says. "I'll let you get back to sleep now."
>She turns and heads out of the room again.
-
>Sleep sounds good. Let's do that, then.
-
>Sleep sounds good. Let's do that, then.
>You let Ichirin go and swiftly sink back into a deep and dreamless sleep. An indeterminate time later, you open your eyes to the bright light of... late morning, you think? You can hear movement about the house, but it smells like it's already past breakfast.
-
>That's as good a reason as any to get out of bed.
>Take a moment, though, to glance out the window and ascertain the time for sure. Then go in search of foods.
-
>That's as good a reason as any to get out of bed.
>Take a moment, though, to glance out the window and ascertain the time for sure. Then go in search of foods.
>You glance out the window and try to get a better gauge on the time. You think it's probably 11-ish.
>Then you pull yourself out of bed and stretch. You still feel sub-par, but less leaden than yesterday; you're inclined to think that once you wake up a little more, you'll probably be fit enough to attend to business. At least if that business doesn't involve any sudden displays of athletics, anyway... You head on down the corridor towards the kitchen.
>You find the kitchen itself empty, though you can hear some signs of life from the adjacent common room, including the occasional voice of a young child - probably Michiko.
-
>Have a look in, but just a look. Let's not go parading around with a sword in hand if there's kids around, covered blade or no.
-
>Have a look in, but just a look. Let's not go parading around with a sword in hand if there's kids around, covered blade or no.
>You walk a few more feet down the corridor and take a glance into the common room. Michiko is kneeling in the middle of the floor, amid a scattering of brightly colored wooden blocks. With a look of intense concentration, she selects a rectangular blue one and places it atop what looks to be an increasingly unstable tower. In a chair on the opposite side of the room, Manami is sitting and reading a book. Neither seems to have noticed you yet.
-
>Wait and see what happens to the little one's tower.
>If it doesn't topple over of its own accord, wait until she pulls her hand safely away, then clear our throat to draw attention.
-
>Wait and see what happens to the little one's tower.
>If it doesn't topple over of its own accord, wait until she pulls her hand safely away, then clear our throat to draw attention.
>While the tower wobbles disconcertingly as the new block is added, it manages to remain upright.
>Michiko goes to select another block and you clear your throat once her hand is out of spontaneous demolition range. She looks up and smiles brightly at you. "Good morning!"
>Manami looks up from her book, her expression a little more... wary. "Morning, Nazrin," she says. "How're ya doing?"
-
>"Better than I was. Decent night's sleep helps in that department."
>We don't have any exposed wounds showing to the poor girls, do we?
>"Did I miss breakfast?"
-
>"Better than I was. Decent night's sleep helps in that department."
>"Did I miss breakfast?"
>Manami nods slowly, giving you a thinly veiled look up and down. "Good to hear."
>"Yup!" Michiko says.
>Manami throws her a dry look, then says "Just help yourself to whatever. Ichirin's gone out somewhere, but she'll probably be back for lunch."
>We don't have any exposed wounds showing to the poor girls, do we?
>By this point, you don't think you have any distinctly visible wounds, period.
-
>Give the girls a nod. "Thanks."
>Seems sensible advice. Let's see what's in the kitchen.
-
>Give the girls a nod. "Thanks."
>Seems sensible advice. Let's see what's in the kitchen.
>"You're welcome!" Michiko chirps, pondering the next addition to her grand construction project.
>Manami just nods, though you can feel her eyes on you as walk away, a trace of a dubious frown on her face.
>You leave and head for the kitchen. Browsing the pantry, there's certainly no shortage of food to be found: milk, eggs, most of a loaf of fresh bread and some slightly older looking buns, some oatmeal, fruit of numerous varieties, a couple kinds of cheese, as well as some ham and bacon in the ice box, and plenty of other raw ingredients in bulk, if you felt like making something more involved.
-
Everything happens whilst I'm asleep these days. =I
So, what's your plan for dealing with this, Sour?
-
First, I intend to make breakfast.
>Let's have a little of that bacon, that's a fine way to start the day. Couple eggs to go with it, as well. Topped with some cheese. Couple slices of bread, and a glass of milk, yes. That'll do us well. And an orange.
-
>Let's have a little of that bacon, that's a fine way to start the day. Couple eggs to go with it, as well. Topped with some cheese. Couple slices of bread, and a glass of milk, yes. That'll do us well. And an orange.
>You decide that you're plenty hungry this morning and set to work making a proper meal for yourself. You heat up the stove and fetch the requisite foodstuffs, nibbling a little on the cheese while you wait. Warm breakfast aromas quickly fill the kitchen once the food starts frying in earnest, making you all but salivate in anticipation. It's a satisfying bit of domesticity after the events of the past days - something reassuringly mundane. And it doesn't hurt that the emptiness of your stomach has asserted itself in full force now.
>After an almost painfully long time watching your bacon pop and sizzle in the frying pan, you decide that it's well enough cooked and serve it up. Then you pull a chair at the table and sit down with your meal. Rarely has such humble fare seemed so enticing.
-
-Dig in and ejoy the meal, savouring it some.
-admire are cooking skills, even if are hunger makes us more then biaus.
-
>Inventory. Let's see just how much we lost after that little adventure.
>What do we need for the trip back to Braston? And do we feel up to making that walk?
-
-Dig in and ejoy the meal, savouring it some.
-admire are cooking skills, even if are hunger makes us more then biaus.
>You dig into your meal, eagerly devouring it. The savoring comes easily at this point; your stomach has decided to make you very much aware of how little food it's seen these past days. You work on rectifying that problem.
>You know that your cooking skills are merely functional at best, and certainly no great feats of culinary technique were involved in making this breakfast, but at the moment 'functional' is more than good enough.
>Inventory. Let's see just how much we lost after that little adventure.
>What do we need for the trip back to Braston? And do we feel up to making that walk?
>Your pack and such are still in your room; there doesn't appear to be anything in the pockets of your current clothing.
>Assuming your pack's contents are in one piece, you have more than enough food for the trip, though the thought of spending most of the day walking... is not at all a pleasant one at the moment. You might be able to endure it, but you'd really rather not have to.
-
>Do we feel up to a walk around town?
-
>Do we feel up to a walk around town?
>That should be fine.
-
I suggest we shakedown Minoriko for every bit of information we can. And maybe make sure there is some kind of decent anti-spider preparation going on; I'm thinking aforementioned hunters probably ought to be nudged toward drilling more able folks with bows, if any are to be found. Its not like the few skilled youkai can be everywhere if something bad happens.
-
we don't really need to suggest the additional troops to guard. Since Supposedly the Sisters are helping manage it, and frankly are muti armed pal... we needs a new arm, so it be a bit before she back to full strength as well, and so long we make sure the additional info DID get to the sisters they should be able to prepare accordingly, at least till we can get around easier are selves.
However getting some more info wouldn't be a bad idea. However we shouldn't be to aggressive with it, if its something like, how prays are private things, bla bla bla god rules. She saved us, and we don't know when where going need her help. However that said, all for getting more clarity on this whole matter, help us out later.
-
Well, I doubt if she were going to launch any kind of attack, she'd do it alone. Really, the problem will be spiders coming when no one expects it, which may be too much between the few skilled people we have. Having the farmers be able to fend off a spider attack we aren't there to handle would be a good idea. And, given what we've seen of the youkai herself, I am entirely confident she'll heal those legs back by the time we meet her again.
And we probably owe Minoriko a donation or summat, anyways.
-
we needed to talk to the people organizing the defense anyways. Make sure everything we know clearly gotten to them. So we can question them about how their defenses are then, in ether case.
-
Quite so. But probably Minoriko first.
>Are we decently dressed for an outing?
-
>Are we decently dressed for an outing?
>Jinbei tend to be more indoor than outdoor wear, but you're certainly presentable enough.
-
>Do we recall if there's any kind of hamper or closet or such for donated clothes, and the likelihood of such having clothes that'd fit us?
-
>Do we recall if there's any kind of hamper or closet or such for donated clothes, and the likelihood of such having clothes that'd fit us?
>There is. Ichirin tries to keep a decent supply of spare clothes in varied sizes - in this occupation, you never know when you might suddenly have someone new to clothe - and most of what people grow out of gets recycled. There's probably a decent chance that you could find something in your size; the clothes you're wearing now fit well enough, anyway. If worst came to worst, Manami looks like she's getting pretty close to your size now...
-
>After we finish breakfast, and tidy away the dishes, grab an apple for the road, then go retreive our pack, and find ourselves some outdoors-y clothes.
-
>After we finish breakfast, and tidy away the dishes, grab an apple for the road, then go retreive our pack, and find ourselves some outdoors-y clothes.
>You happily polish off the rest of your meal, then tidy away the dishes and pocket an apple.
>Then you head back to your room and pick up your pack, stowing the apple with the rest of your food, and set off to look for some clothes.
>Finally, you head off to the storage room to look around for some clothes in your size. This proves to be a little harder than you'd hoped, but you eventually settle on a kosode in subtle earth tones and a pair of work pants that look just a touch on the large size for you.
-
>It'll do till we get back to our room in Braston.
>Return to our room. Equip clothes.
>Pop back down to see Manami again, taking care not to disrupt Michiko's tower.
-
>It'll do till we get back to our room in Braston.
>Return to our room. Equip clothes.
>Pop back down to see Manami again, taking care not to disrupt Michiko's tower.
>They're certainly serviceable, at the least.
>You head back to your room and change into your new clothes. Or rather, get as far as stripping off your top when something disturbing catches your eye.
>On your right arm, not far from the residual traces of a claw wound, is a small cluster of what look rather like ragged black veins beneath your skin. Their coloration is quite vivid in the center , but fades swiftly as they reach their extent, perhaps a half-inch or so away.
-
> Neat, a new tattoo.
> Do the veins have any obvious shape or pattern?
-
> Neat, a new tattoo.
> Do the veins have any obvious shape or pattern?
>You're not sure 'neat' is quite the word you'd use...
>Not that you can see; they seem to branch and thin in a manner fairly similar to a normal venous pattern, though there are only a couple distinctly visible tendrils
-
>She'll regret that.
>Finish getting dressed.
-
> That's a cynical 'neat', you silly mouse.
Sounds worth asking about, for all that it seems pretty obvious it's the blight.
-
We'll have to show Minoriko, aye.
-
> That's a cynical 'neat', you silly mouse.
>Damn sarcasm detector must be on the fritz...
>She'll regret that.
>Finish getting dressed.
>You spare another moment's bitterness towards the likely source of this.
>Then you finish getting dressed. In the process you note a second, smaller patch on your torso, and another on your left leg, just above the knee. Well, this can't be any worse news than what you've already received...
-
Should it be noted, that sour is on a mission to help the spider girl dispit everything? Me supporting him? Which seems to go against the "i will kill her" vibe you give purvis, <_< not that i can exactly blame you.
Now i like to know if sour had any important business with Manami before heading off to Minoriko. In ether case.
-
Well, I'm using the idea that Nazrin's not perfectly saintlike. We're still going to help spider girl. But anger and hate don't just vanish. Especially given that she's leading her spiders to doom in a way I'd like to think we'd never do with any mice following us. We might not hate her for taking a stand, but we can sure find plenty of other things like ignorance, sacrificing so-called friends, and so on, that we've called her out on already. And given we can imagine it's going to take force to stop her if she tries anything, I don't think Nazrin would shy away from it,or exist in a state of not-hate while doing so. Byakuren maybe, but not Nazrin.
And yeah, letting Sour handing the details with those things before leaving.
-
was just makeshift sure i knew how you where going about it. I also drought she can directly control them, like we can't control mice. It was probably her idea, but i pretty sure she would tried to have them retreat before we drove something thought their skull.
that said i get where your coming from. Now only sour get on.
-
Don't leave everything to me, boyos. I promise you, I'll miss something.
>Pop back down to see Manami again, taking care not to disrupt Michiko's tower.
-
>Pop back down to see Manami again, taking care not to disrupt Michiko's tower.
>You head back down to the common room. Stepping inside, you see that the tower of blocks was apparently already disrupted at some point, though Michiko doesn't seem especially put off by this. A successor is in the works, its stature a mere shadow of the previous incarnation, but the ambition on its architect's face is clear.
>Manami glances up in your direction as you enter. Michiko is far too engrossed in making the pivotal decision of green versus blue.
-
>"I'm heading out for a bit. Gonna see Minoriko, the Prismrivers, maybe see if I can find some fast transport back to Braston. If Ichirin gets back before I do, tell her I'll stop back in once I make my rounds, if I can."
-
>"I'm heading out for a bit. Gonna see Minoriko, the Prismrivers, maybe see if I can find some fast transport back to Braston. If Ichirin gets back before I do, tell her I'll stop back in once I make my rounds, if I can."
>"Got it," Manami replies.
-
Or even slow transport. It was said we weren't really up to that walk back to town, so even if we have to jack another cart, might not be fast, but it'd serve the purpose. Not that we have any time to waste, but I suppose beggars can't be choosers.
>To the Harvest's Bounty, and the goddess within.
-
>Take note of things in along the way.
-
>To the Harvest's Bounty, and the goddess within.
>Take note of things in along the way.
>You exit the orphanage and make your way towards the village center and the Harvest's Bounty. The sky is a mottled tapestry of dull grey and blue, and the air is muggy; you honestly can't tell whether you should expect rain in the afternoon or clear skies. As you make your way into the more populated areas, you dryly wonder if the weather has decided to match the mood of the village. Things seem more or less as they should, though you sense a faint undercurrent of tension to the interactions you witness. Sadly, you can't be entirely sure how much of that is you simply viewing normal conversations in light of your own doubts and misgivings. One thing you are sure of is that your presence is drawing more glances and murmurs than the last time you walked through here. Word about what happened to you has no doubt spread, though it's any guess how accurate it is.
>A short while later, you arrive at the Harvest's Bounty itself. Stepping inside, you find it less crowded than the other day, though with it being on the cusp of lunchtime, you imagine that won't last very long. You easily spot Minoriko, studiously cleaning one of the tables with a damp cloth. She is back-on, but your presence is certainly noted by several of the other patrons, accompanied by the sort of looks you've now come to expect.
-
>Keep an ear open for gossip and talk pertaining to us, then approach Minoriko.
>"Howdy. Got a minute?"
-
>Keep an ear open for gossip and talk pertaining to us, then approach Minoriko.
>"Howdy. Got a minute?"
>You try to eavesdrop on any chatter involve you. There isn't too much, despite the looks you received, though you catch a few snatches. Most of it is pretty general and about what you'd expect: people surprised to see you, questioning whether what they heard about your fate was right, and some opinionated speculation on whether this means the spiders are less threatening than some other people have been saying. At least one person seems to have thought you were already dead, or at least a lot closer to death's door than you've been told.
>Minoriko quickly turns around as you address her. The expression on her face is one of genuine surprise, quickly giving way to a wide smile darkened just a bit by unmistakable traces of uncertainty and... sadness?
>"Nazrin!" she says, her voice warm. "It's good to see you. Of course I can spare you a minute."
-
>Heh. Get a good look folks. Can't keep a good mouse down.
>"I was hoping to get some more... details, on that little problem I've got."
-
>Heh. Get a good look folks. Can't keep a good mouse down.
>"I was hoping to get some more... details, on that little problem I've got."
>Being more alive than people expect is a strangely empowering feeling at the moment. Take that, death!
>Minoriko's smile eases away, leaving something of a concerned frown. "...right, of course. Come with me."
>She turns and walks towards her rooms.
-
>Follow behind her.
>Keep our voice down, "Try not to look too concerned. I do at least feel better."
-
>Follow behind her.
>Keep our voice down, "Try not to look too concerned. I do at least feel better."
>You follow along as she moves past the tables and customers and into the hallway beyond.
>"I'm glad to hear it," she says, though without much mirth in her voice. "It's just, well..."
>You arrive at the door to Minoriko's place. She unlocks it and steps inside, gesturing for you to enter.
-
>"Yeah. 'Well'."
>Enter, and find a seat for ourselves.
>"I wanted a word before I headed out of town, wanted to know a bit more about what I was up against."
>"And some.. odd coloring I found around my wounds. I suspect they're part of whatever that youkai infected me with, but I wanted to make sure."
-
>"Yeah. 'Well'."
>Enter, and find a seat for ourselves.
>"I wanted a word before I headed out of town, wanted to know a bit more about what I was up against."
>"And some.. odd coloring I found around my wounds. I suspect they're part of whatever that youkai infected me with, but I wanted to make sure."
>Minoriko frowns uncomfortably, but says nothing.
>You enter and seat yourself on a well-cushioned chair. Minoriko closes the door behind you.
>"Yes, that's..." she trails off for a moment. "That's what I recognized when they first called me to look at you. It is... the surest sign."
-
I'm not certain we should be leaving town, save as a last resort.
>"Ichirin mentioned that you remembered some things..."
-
>"Ichirin mentioned that you remembered some things..."
>"...yes," she replies, visibly uncomfortable.
-
>"Well, I've heard the worst of it. So it's all downhill from here."
-
>"Ichirin mentioned that there were some things about it that you didn't want to say. But anything you could tell me would be helpful."
>"She said that this affected crops, too. Was it a natural disease, then, or was it created?"
-
>"Well, I've heard the worst of it. So it's all downhill from here."
>"That... may be so," she says in a heavy voice, then shakes her head. "I'm very sorry, Nazrin."
>"Ichirin mentioned that there were some things about it that you didn't want to say. But anything you could tell me would be helpful."
>"She said that this affected crops, too. Was it a natural disease, then, or was it created?"
>"I... can't," she says, frowning tightly. "I'm sorry, but I can't. Please believe me when I say that none of it would change things. I don't know how to save you. I don't know that anything can."
-
>"Lest we forget, Minoriko. I'm a Seeker. If a cure can be found, I can find it. I just need to know where to start, and a decent place might be the history of this disease, at least as much as you can tell me. Or, if you can't, then you might know someone else that could tell me, or some records of that time."
>"I have one lead, this sword, and if that's all I have to work with, so be it."
-
>"Lest we forget, Minoriko. I'm a Seeker. If a cure can be found, I can find it. I just need to know where to start, and a decent place might be the history of this disease, at least as much as you can tell me. Or, if you can't, then you might know someone else that could tell me, or some records of that time."
>"I have one lead, this sword, and if that's all I have to work with, so be it."
>Minoriko smiles weakly. "I'm glad to see you so spirited. Whatever is to come, at least you will still have this much. The faith in that weapon is truly enduring."
>"But... even if I were free to tell you, it wouldn't help. If there's anyone else who would know, I..." She pauses a moment. "...I have no idea where to find them. It was a very, very long time ago."
-
>"So I gathered. I presume records from that era are hard to come by, too."
>"About how long ago, if I may?"
-
>"So I gathered. I presume records from that era are hard to come by, too."
>"About how long ago, if I may?"
>"I'm sure they would be," she says.
>"I... don't know if even I can say for sure." She shakes her head. "Old. Very old. Older even than that," she says, pointing at your sword.
-
>"The disease predates this sword?"
>Glance at it.
>"Or blight. Whichever you prefer."
>Wait, faith...
>"If the source of this sword's effects on those spiders is based on faith, is this blight, as well?"
-
>"The disease predates this sword?"
>Glance at it.
>"Or blight. Whichever you prefer."
>Wait, faith...
>"If the source of this sword's effects on those spiders is based on faith, is this blight, as well?"
>Minoriko frowns, this one more surprised than resigned. "Is the blight based on faith? No more than you are, I think," she says, shaking her head. "It may be beyond an ordinary illness like you are beyond an ordinary mouse, but it's still ultimately a disease."
-
>Oh, god! A disease youkai! Save us, Lancer!
>"Well, I suppose that's good news and bad. Means I don't have to find the 'right god to purge this', or something. But it does leave me at square one."
>"Look, Minoriko. I understand it isn't easy for you to talk about this stuff. But can you at least tell me why? I mean, this IS my life we're talking about here, and I'm not about to lie down and die. And if you can't tell me what I want to know to help me cure myself, I'd at least like to know why."
-
>Oh, god! A disease youkai! Save us, Lancer!
>"Well, I suppose that's good news and bad. Means I don't have to find the 'right god to purge this', or something. But it does leave me at square one."
>"Look, Minoriko. I understand it isn't easy for you to talk about this stuff. But can you at least tell me why? I mean, this IS my life we're talking about here, and I'm not about to lie down and die. And if you can't tell me what I want to know to help me cure myself, I'd at least like to know why."
>You've got a fever. And the only cure is... MORE GAE BOLG!!
>"I'm sorry..."
>"Nazrin..." she breaths, looking at you earnestly. "Prayer is a sacred trust. The prayers that people make to me... they are shared in the profoundest confidence. I simply can't violate that. I can't. But I swear to you that nothing I know from them could help you. Names and faces of those who died? Stories of parents crying for their children, people starving, everyone and everything dying? I'm not withholding an answer. I've done everything I can think of..." Her expression is one of profuse regret.
>"I'm no brilliant healer," she says. "I'm just an herbalist of modest skill. I know the usual remedies and perhaps a few unusual ones, but..." She shakes her head. "Maybe someone out there does know how to cure this. I would very much like to believe they do. I don't want to see another person die from it, not after so many years."
-
>"That trick you pulled with the sword and the seeds was pretty clever, I''ll give you that."
>"And I'm not saying you haven't tried; clearly, you have. And believe me, I do appreciate it. I'm also not asking you to tell me anything about what people prayed to you for. That's private, that's fair enough. But is there nothing you can tell me about this blight itself? Or how it spread in the first place? I can't imagine everyone was infected by a spider youkai."
>".. Or were they? Was that the war she told me about? The youkai that infected me, she talked about a war between her kind and ours, people that live on the surface. Was that it?"
-
>"That trick you pulled with the sword and the seeds was pretty clever, I''ll give you that."
>"And I'm not saying you haven't tried; clearly, you have. And believe me, I do appreciate it. I'm also not asking you to tell me anything about what people prayed to you for. That's private, that's fair enough. But is there nothing you can tell me about this blight itself? Or how it spread in the first place? I can't imagine everyone was infected by a spider youkai."
>".. Or were they? Was that the war she told me about? The youkai that infected me, she talked about a war between her kind and ours, people that live on the surface. Was that it?"
>"I just did what I could," she says. "None of it would have mattered if you hadn't found that."
>Minoriko is silent while you continue to question, though you get the distinct impression that her uncomfortableness is growing as you near the end of your line of inquiry. She remains silent for several moments after.
>"I... can't answer that," she says at last. "I wasn't there in the way that I'm here now. I saw what I saw only through the prayers of the people who lived there. It's not the same thing. But I swear that nothing I saw there offers you an answer."
-
>Offer a small sigh. Not of vexation or annoyance, but one of a woman accepting that she's hit an impasse.
>"All right, then. I'll just have to hope that Rinnosuke's up on his history of old swords."
>"But, just because you can't tell me about this disease, doesn't mean I can't tell you something about the spiders that might help if there's fighting to come while I'm away. Obviously you know of the acid spitters, but there's at least two more kinds of spiders that use a toxin of sorts. The little green ones can paralyze with a bite; one of them got my arm, but it can probably do worse if it gets a better bite. Another kind has a bite that causes almost blinding pain. I don't think it has any lingering consequences, but I might not have gotten a big dose of the stuff."
>"There's also a grey one that can spit some kinda glue, so you might wanna have some kinda solvent prepared, or something. Those are the only ones I did any fighting with, although there are more kinds of spiders in there. It ain't much, but it's something to start with, in case you need to make simpler remedies for people soon."
-
>Offer a small sigh. Not of vexation or annoyance, but one of a woman accepting that she's hit an impasse.
>"All right, then. I'll just have to hope that Rinnosuke's up on his history of old swords."
>"But, just because you can't tell me about this disease, doesn't mean I can't tell you something about the spiders that might help if there's fighting to come while I'm away. Obviously you know of the acid spitters, but there's at least two more kinds of spiders that use a toxin of sorts. The little green ones can paralyze with a bite; one of them got my arm, but it can probably do worse if it gets a better bite. Another kind has a bite that causes almost blinding pain. I don't think it has any lingering consequences, but I might not have gotten a big dose of the stuff."
>"There's also a grey one that can spit some kinda glue, so you might wanna have some kinda solvent prepared, or something. Those are the only ones I did any fighting with, although there are more kinds of spiders in there. It ain't much, but it's something to start with, in case you need to make simpler remedies for people soon."
>You let out a sigh. Minoriko frowns and offers another apology.
>"I hope so as well," she says. "Perhaps that sword may still hold a chance for you..."
>Minoriko listens attentively to your description of the spiders you've encountered, frowning in particular at the mention of 'blinding pain', and otherwise nodding along.
>"I think I've seen the green one's you're referring to, although I'm not so sure I would call them 'little'..." She grimaces a little. "Lunasa brought me a dead one to look at, in case I might know whether it was poisonous or prepare an antidote to it."
>She sighs. "I know the traits and uses of countless plants, but I'm afraid that doesn't mean I know the properties of an unknown animal's venom by looking at it, or even how to directly cure it better than any human herbalist of modest experience might. I have a few general remedies I can try if it comes down to it. Hopefully it won't be necessary."
-
>"I got a dose of both of them. If there's any of that toxin still in my system, would a blood sample help you learn more?"
>Pause. "But then again, between the blight and two poisons mixing, probably wouldn't do you much good, would it."
-
>"I got a dose of both of them. If there's any of that toxin still in my system, would a blood sample help you learn more?"
>Pause. "But then again, between the blight and two poisons mixing, probably wouldn't do you much good, would it."
>"If you're feeling better, I doubt there could be much of anything left in you," she says. "Anyway, it wouldn't be nearly as concentrated as from the spider itself which I... already have." She grimaces a little again.
-
>"Good point there, too."
>How IS our arm, anyway? Any lingering stiffness?
>"Gotta admit, I'm curious. Why DID you decide to come down to the level of mortals? Even without the spiders, ain't exactly an easy life down here."
-
>"Good point there, too."
>How IS our arm, anyway? Any lingering stiffness?
>"Gotta admit, I'm curious. Why DID you decide to come down to the level of mortals? Even without the spiders, ain't exactly an easy life down here."
>"I'll... see if I can figure out what to do with it," she says.
>Your arm feels just a hair off perfectly normal. You expect whatever small traces of stiffness you feel are due to the physical wounding that area received, rather than the poison; certainly it feels entirely fine once you get a little south of the shoulder.
>This comment draws an actual smile from Minoriko. "Not always, perhaps, but I think it's a wonderful one. There's the joy of family and community and of helping one another, or of simply enjoying a bowl of soup and a slice of pumpkin pie. There are hardships and troubles, too, of course. That's a part of what life is. But through it all, there is still... life. People shoulder each others' burdens, share each others load, and sometimes find joy even in times of sadness. I think it is a wonderful and precious thing."
>"As for why I came here, well... I found that I wanted to share in the lives of those people who'd prayed to me, to help in the harvest and the planting with my own hands and live the existence they lived. It may only have started as curiosity, but I wouldn't want to go back. This life, this place and its people... they all mean too much to me. You as well, Nazrin," she says, frowning again. "It breaks my heart to see this happen to you, and I know Ichirin is taking it even harder."
-
>Lean back in our seat.
>"Doesn't it get hard? Living among people you'll always outlive? Poison, blight, famine, spiders, war, whatever else comes with the territory, we all live mortal lives. How do you live with all those memories? All those faces?"
-
I'm not processing things correctly at the moment due to being a bit lightheaded and may have missed it, but have we asked her if anyone has survived this disease to her knowledge?
-
A quick phone read-through doesn't show us asking the question.
-
>Lean back in our seat.
>"Doesn't it get hard? Living among people you'll always outlive? Poison, blight, famine, spiders, war, whatever else comes with the territory, we all live mortal lives. How do you live with all those memories? All those faces?"
>"Is it really so different than your kind?" she says. "Ichirin has already outlived a generation of the human children she raised, and will outlive this one as well, should nothing tragic happen. Any youkai can expect this - perhaps you're still too young to really understand..." She frowns and looks away uncomfortably a moment.
>"I'd seen the passing of countless generations before I came here - it's a part of what I am. But I'd never known the warmth that comes from truly sharing these lives, seeing the smile that a warm meal can bring, speaking with people as friends instead of deferent worshipers.... Whatever the sadness, I believe it's worth it. There is death, but there is also new life. It's a cycle as old as the world itself and something more a part of me than most people could ever understand. It's hard to put into words."
>She shakes her head. "But no, it's not a burden. It's just... life."
-
Told you all something would occur to you folks that wouldn't to me.
>Sit back and ponder her words for a few moments.
>"Gotta be honest, Minoriko. I'm not sure I really understand that. At least, not yet. I still intend to live long enough to figure it out. And even if I... If I can't, if I really can't, and this is it for me, I still gotta try. I'm not going out on my back, laid up and useless."
>"While we're on the subject, you wouldn't know of anyone heading to Braston today, would you? Or of a quick horse I can borrow? My only other lead's in Braston, and I'd really rather not have to walk all the back right now."
>"Just out of curiousity, so far as you can remember, did anyone come out of this blight on their own? You said you know of no cure, but people can be resistant to disease sometimes."
-
>Sit back and ponder her words for a few moments.
>"Gotta be honest, Minoriko. I'm not sure I really understand that. At least, not yet. I still intend to live long enough to figure it out. And even if I... If I can't, if I really can't, and this is it for me, I still gotta try. I'm not going out on my back, laid up and useless."
>"While we're on the subject, you wouldn't know of anyone heading to Braston today, would you? Or of a quick horse I can borrow? My only other lead's in Braston, and I'd really rather not have to walk all the back right now."
>"Just out of curiousity, so far as you can remember, did anyone come out of this blight on their own? You said you know of no cure, but people can be resistant to disease sometimes."
>You sit back in silence for a moment.
>Minoriko gives you a gentle smile, though her eyes are somber. "Of course. Live every precious day you have by your own principles. Whatever happens... you can still be proud of that."
>"Most of the people going to market left hours ago, of course," she says. "But I'm sure someone would be willing to make the trip for you. I could ask around, if you'd like."
>She frowns and shakes her head. "I don't know that it infected everyone it touched, but once it showed on their skin... it was only a matter of time. In a way, you're fortunate. You're still able-bodied and on your own two feet. Most people... did not get even this chance." She pauses a moment. "Can I... have another look at them?"
-
>Nod, and show her one of the more visible ones that would require minimal embarrassing exposure.
-
>Nod, and show her one of the more visible ones that would require minimal embarrassing exposure.
>You pull up your sleeve and show her the mark on your right arm. She leans in and scrutinizes it closely, frowning.
>"It hasn't grown very much in the last day," she says. "Which is good; at least as good as can be said about any of this... How's the one on your leg?"
-
>"Well, it looks rather nasty. I only noticed them a little while ago."
>Show her that one.
-
>"Well, it looks rather nasty. I only noticed them a little while ago."
>Show her that one.
>"I noticed it when I was trying to treat your fever first," she says. "It's... how I knew what had happened."
>You roll up the left leg of your pants above your knee and show her the marking there. She bends down to get a better look at it.
>"This one's grown a little more, but still only a little. Did you notice any others?"
-
>"There's one on my side..."
>Show her the torso one if she asks to see it.
-
>"There's one on my side..."
>Show her the torso one if she asks to see it.
>She frowns a little. "May I see?"
>You pull your shirt up enough to expose the third, smaller patch on your torso.
>"This one is new," she says, examining it. "But still quite small. All things considered, it's progressing very slowly. I'm sure that's a small comfort..."
-
>"It gives me some time."
>Sigh.
>"So, can you tell me anything about this weapon, or why it exists?"
-
>"It gives me some time."
>Sigh.
>"So, can you tell me anything about this weapon, or why it exists?"
>"I imagine it exists for one the reasons most weapons exist: to defend things or to kill them. There's a power resonating inside it, very much like faith or prayer; it's very old, but still strong. It pushes back against your illness; whether because it's trying to shelter its wielder or because its nature directly opposes the blight's, I couldn't say for sure. I can't even say exactly how it came to possess this power; another god may have been involved, or it might have been empowered by a host of people placing their own hopes and prayers within it. Faith can be a very powerful thing, when enough people believe something strongly."
-
Thing to remember: Ask Ichirin how she got the web off us. Might be something we can use there for future encounters.
>"Do you think it's doing so because it wants to? Or does it have no more choice than a knife being used to cut food?"
-
>"Do you think it's doing so because it wants to? Or does it have no more choice than a knife being used to cut food?"
>"I don't think it has any consciousness, if that's what you mean. It's still only a sword; this power is simply part of its being now, as much as the metal is."
-
>"Speaking of this sword, are we gonna need to make any more of that medicine?"
-
>"Speaking of this sword, are we gonna need to make any more of that medicine?"
>"I've already prepared enough to last you several days," she says. "I've you're planning on leaving soon, I still have enough herbs left over to make more."
-
>"I still have to see the Prismrivers, or at least Lunasa, before I go. Ichirin said Lunasa wanted to have a word with me. And stop in to see Ichirin herself, as well. But other than that, I plan to head back to Braston as soon as I can find some transport. The sooner I see Rinnosuke, the sonner I'll know which direction to go to find a cure."
>... if there is one to be found.
>"Are any of the sisters here, by the way? Or have they set up camp somewhere else after I came back down from 8-leg hill?"
-
>"I still have to see the Prismrivers, or at least Lunasa, before I go. Ichirin said Lunasa wanted to have a word with me. And stop in to see Ichirin herself, as well. But other than that, I plan to head back to Braston as soon as I can find some transport. The sooner I see Rinnosuke, the sonner I'll know which direction to go to find a cure."
>... if there is one to be found.
>"Are any of the sisters here, by the way? Or have they set up camp somewhere else after I came back down from 8-leg hill?"
>She nods. "Of course. But make sure to come back before you leave, so that I can give you the rest of the batch."
>Indeed...
>"They're still lodging here," she says. "But I'm not sure if any of them are in at the moment."
-
Before we claim the plan is to head back to Braston...
It seems we have three options. One is Braston. The upside being is that it is a mostly unknown quality, we could find new hope there. The downside is that it would mean we leave the village, and likely take it's best protection, one that our spider friend directly fears, with us, and it may well prompt her to act if she's paying attention. And if she's smart, she's definitely asking spiders for information; we'd do the same with mice in this situation. It would be troublesome if she decided to spread the disease in our absence.
The second is we got after the disease source itself. The upside is that she has a high chance of being knowledgeable about it, and it would possibly be killing two birds with one stone; we do still need to deal with her. The downside is that she probably doesn't want to help us, and will likely take some extreme coercion to consider it to the tune of "I'll kill every spider I meet until you knock this shit off".
The third is we try to tap into whatever this sword has, which requires us to figure out a way. but given that Minoriko could leech power out of it, it seems to be plausible. The pros and cons of this are hard to weigh.
I'm not much in favor of leaving town until we exhaust everything else, myself. We can send letters (and hopefully Ichirin did as we requested in that vein yesterday) and I really dislike removing a deterrence to any further spider -related problems until we have some confirmation there's a reason to do so.
-
>"About how long will it take to make?"
We're not going after the youkai. She didn't help us before, she's not going to help us now, and we're in no condition for another fight. With her or her spiders. We're already dying, going back to the cave is sure death. I have a plan to deal with her, to get her to Ichirin's without too much collateral damage, as I explained in the previous thread. And that's Marisa. We can send Marisa in after the youkai. She can beat her way more easily than we did, and she doesn't have to kill the spiders she meets between her and the youkai; she's as dangerous with non-lethal spells as she is with lethal. And then Unzan can keep her in line.
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I dunno about the no condition to win thing; we did knock the shit out of her despite her being better than us in pretty much all ways while heavily wounded and tired, thanks to the sword. But, this may be my lack of desire to pass the buck onto an NPC talking. At the same time, what guarantee do we have that Marisa is still in town? It's well established that she doesn't hang around. It would be very foolish to just go to town without any assurance there's something there we can draw upon to deal with this situation. Unzan could probably handle her, true. Thing is, can he handle her fast enough to keep her from wreaking havoc once the item that she has shown a great deal of fear toward is out of town? I'd say it's pretty uncharacteristic to consider taking that out of town for as long as going back to Braston would take until we have some guarantee there's something worth going there for.
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I don't think staying will really have any effect on combat. We not in a shape to fight as sour said. We would be wiped heading to a city we made trips to already.
She KNOWS what where infected with, she said the sword was the only reason we where alive, she was hinting the whole fight something was wrong with us, and that we "where already dead" far she concerned where a walking corpse.... which we kinda are in some senses.
Besides, it could be BETTER if we leave, she just want her spider to hunt and be full, but she hates the sword, and us, which means she might be more inclined to attack if she knew we where there to get ride her biggest, and far she concerned, only problem, the sword. Again where a walking corpse, we are-selves didn't even make her feel threatened WITH the sword, at a far more healthy condition. If your right and she getting info from the spiders, and WALKING, cause by all accounts we shouldn't be, she going want finish the job soon she can.
Also i not say she was less scared. more hateing the weapon.
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>"About how long will it take to make?"
>She pauses thoughtfully. "Well, I have to grind it and then it needs to steep for at least a half-hour or so... The lunch rush will be starting soon, too, but I can get one of the others to fill in for me if you need it sooner rather than later."
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>"There may not be a BIG rush, it depends on how long it takes me to track Lunasa down. If they're not here, I assume they'd be out in the fields, or the forest, somewhere?"
I might add, I'm not opposed to the idea of trying to draw the faith in the sword into us. We'd probably still need to find a cure, but we wouldn't necessarily be in such a rush to find one. A little more time on the death clock is always good. But the only person I can think of that might have an idea how to do that would be Minoriko, and I'm almost certain that's outside her area of expertise.
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>"Where wouldn't happen to be anywhere, where defense of the town if coordinated or something would there? if i can't find the sisters it be the best place to ask after."
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Besides, it could be BETTER if we leave, she just want her spider to hunt and be full, but she hates the sword, and us, which means she might be more inclined to attack if she knew we where there to get ride her biggest, and far she concerned, only problem, the sword. Again where a walking corpse, we are-selves didn't even make her feel threatened WITH the sword, at a far more healthy condition. If your right and she getting info from the spiders, and WALKING, cause by all accounts we shouldn't be, she going want finish the job soon she can.
That's an aspect I hadn't considered. Good point.
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>"There may not be a BIG rush, it depends on how long it takes me to track Lunasa down. If they're not here, I assume they'd be out in the fields, or the forest, somewhere?"
>"They might be," she says. "I know there were doing some scouting and trying to co-ordinate people, but I don't know the details. Most of the cattle's been pulled out of the fields and housed as best it can be. No one wants to be using feed in the summer if they don't have to, of course, but it's better than having half your herd eaten or being caught along with them. What happened to you drove the danger home to a lot of people who'd otherwise probably still be out there."
>"Where wouldn't happen to be anywhere, where defense of the town if coordinated or something would there? if i can't find the sisters it be the best place to ask after."
>"I'm not sure, sorry. You might try out by the pastures, though. Unzan has been keeping watch on the area, and would have been them if they've been through there lately."
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>"Didn't come here to scare a lot of people, but I suppose scared's better than some of the alternatives."
>"But before that, there is something that occured to me back at Ichirin's. It might be a longshot, but asking couldn't hurt. This sword is what's keeping the blight at bay, we're clear on that. But is there some way I could... internalize that force? Take it within myself?"
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>"Didn't come here to scare a lot of people, but I suppose scared's better than some of the alternatives."
>"But before that, there is something that occured to me back at Ichirin's. It might be a longshot, but asking couldn't hurt. This sword is what's keeping the blight at bay, we're clear on that. But is there some way I could... internalize that force? Take it within myself?"
>"In this case, I'd definitely say caution is better than being in harm's way."
>"I, um..." She looks a little taken aback. "I'm not sure exactly. I don't think so... not in the way you mean, anyway. But there might be some way to draw upon it more directly, touch it more deeply than simply holding it.... At least it might be possible." Then she shakes her head. "But I don't think that you could do it."
>"Uh- I didn't mean that as an insult," she says, quickly waving her hands. "Please don't take it the wrong way. But I think it would require someone very in-tune with this kind of spirituality."
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>Never have been big on faith, have we?
>Wave a hand casually.
>"No worries. So it depends on the person trying it, rather than the nature of the faith in question?"
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>Never have been big on faith, have we?
>Wave a hand casually.
>"No worries. So it depends on the person trying it, rather than the nature of the faith in question?"
>Not really, no.
>You wave a hand dismissively. Minoriko seems to ease a little.
>"Well, it would probably take someone of exceptional skill to do what you mean," she says. "I'm not even sure it could work, but it may at least be possible."
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>"So someone would have to do it themselves? I mean, just for the sake of arguement, if you knew how to do this, you wouldn't be able to do it for me, I'd have to do it myself."
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>"So someone would have to do it themselves? I mean, just for the sake of arguement, if you knew how to do this, you wouldn't be able to do it for me, I'd have to do it myself."
>"I'm not so sure of that," she says. "If someone could channel it, maybe... it might be possible. But I couldn't do it. Gods can't draw upon other sources of spirituality like that. That's a priestess's domain. And before you ask, Ichirin did already have one look at you while you were unconscious. I imagine it was beyond anything she could do, as well."
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>"That doesn't mean there's not a priestess out there that can't do it with this sword. I just means I have to find one connected to the spirituality of this sword. Don't suppose you'd know of one, would you?"
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>"That doesn't mean there's not a priestess out there that can't do it with this sword. I just means I have to find one connected to the spirituality of this sword. Don't suppose you'd know of one, would you?"
>"I'm afraid not," she says, shaking her head.
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>"Well, it's still something, in case Rinnosuke can't come up with anything more direct."
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here a question.
>"...exactly how strong is this sword? I know its old, i know its protecting me and could face the spider, and probably diminished since it was made. However you said it was strong, any way you could describe HOW strong?"
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>"Well, it's still something, in case Rinnosuke can't come up with anything more direct."
>She nods. "It may be, yes. I don't want to plant false hopes, but... there may be someone out there who can make use of it in that way."
>"...exactly how strong is this sword? I know its old, i know its protecting me and could face the spider, and probably diminished since it was made. However you said it was strong, any way you could describe HOW strong?"
>"I'm not sure it's something I can really put into words," she says. "Could you say exactly how strong something smelled? The power in it is old, and the fact that it's still this clear after what must be many hundreds of years is telling. It is enduring. Maybe it was stronger once - I couldn't really say for sure - but I would expect it to still resonate strongly after yet more centuries."
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I got nothing left to ask. anyone else?
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>"Heh. Suppose even my nose isn't quite that good. I can tell ya when an egg's gone rotten, and from pretty far away, but not exactly how many of em have turned."
>If we're not standing, stand.
>"I suppose I'd best be off for now, then. See if I can track down my fellow Seeker."
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>"Heh. Suppose even my nose isn't quite that good. I can tell ya when an egg's gone rotten, and from pretty far away, but not exactly how many of em have turned."
>If we're not standing, stand.
>"I suppose I'd best be off for now, then. See if I can track down my fellow Seeker."
>"I suppose that may be one way of putting it," she says, screwing up her face a little.
>You stand up again.
>She nods. "Good luck to you. Make sure not to forget to stop back here before you leave town."
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>"Count on it."
>She suggested the pastures, so let's head in that direction.
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>"Count on it."
>She suggested the pastures, so let's head in that direction.
>Minoriko gives you a warm smile. "Then I'll be seeing you later this afternoon."
>You turn and leave the room, Minoriko following behind and locking the door after you. Then you take your leave and make your way out of the Harvest's Bounty.
>Or rather, make it partway to the door before a rather sardonic-looking red-garbed figure steps inside. She eyes you narrowly once she notices you.
>"I see you're back on your feet again," Lyrica says.
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>Lyrica. Well, that's in the ballpark.
>"I don't stay down that easy. But this is good timing. I was just about to go looking for your sister. Ichirin mentioned that Lunasa wanted a word with me?"
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>Lyrica. Well, that's in the ballpark.
>"I don't stay down that easy. But this is good timing. I was just about to go looking for your sister. Ichirin mentioned that Lunasa wanted a word with me?"
>Definitely getting warmer.
>"Yeah, pretty much," she says dryly. "Wanted to wait and hear what you'd seen before any of us set foot in that place, given what shape you came out of it in. Can't say I was in a hurry to convince her otherwise. She's having a meeting in the village hall with some of the farmers now, if you wanted to go fill her in some."
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>"Sensible way to go about it, too. Care to join us? Save your sister having to fill you in later."
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>"Sensible way to go about it, too. Care to join us? Save your sister having to fill you in later."
>She stares at you flatly for a moment. "Why do you think I'm here instead of there?"
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>"I'll take that as a yes?"
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>"I'll take that as a yes?"
>Lyrica's mouth hangs open just a little and her eyes narrow; you have a hard time interpreting the expression as anything other than an aspersion on your intelligence.
>"I'm tired and hungry and she's fussing with logistics," she replies. "She can tell me whatever she thinks is important later. She'll repeat it anyway, don't you worry."
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>Twitch.
>"Suit yourself."
>To the village hall, and (hopefully) the less ornery sister.
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>Twitch.
>"Suit yourself."
>To the village hall, and (hopefully) the less ornery sister.
>You twitch. Snarky little...
>"Glad you're doing ok, anyway," she says, moving off towards a table. "Go knock yourself out at the meeting."
>You leave and make the short trip to the village hall. Most of the posters from the concert are still arrayed along its walls, though the ones by the front doors (and thus the easiest to reach) seem to have been removed by now.
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>Pity we missed the show. Have to catch them the next time we're in the same town they're in.
>Enter the hall, and listen for sounds of conversation, or look about for Lunasa if no obvious signs of her present themselves.
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>Pity we missed the show. Have to catch them the next time we're in the same town they're in.
>Enter the hall, and listen for sounds of conversation, or look about for Lunasa if no obvious signs of her present themselves.
>It certainly would have been a more pleasant diversion than dying with a fever on the forest floor... And though you haven't heard them play very often, there's absolutely no doubting they're very good at what they do.
>You step into the hall and look around for sounds of conversation. It doesn't take very long to locate a gathering and.... yes, that's Lunasa's voice. It seems to be coming from a small meeting room down the corridor to your right.
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Before I forget, I gotta note: We still haven't received our payment for the job we came here for in the first place. One of us'll have to remember that when we see Ichirin again.
>Go the the small meeting room down the corridor to your right.
>If the door's closed, knock and announce ourselves.
>If it's open, stick our head in and announce ourselves.
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(not to sound bad but umm.. we going get an update soon? <_< i really want continue)
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(Be patient. DracoOmega has a life outside of the internet, you know.)
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(yes i know. i was just asking. I wasn't demanding one or anything. Just curious.)
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>Go the the small meeting room down the corridor to your right.
>If the door's closed, knock and announce ourselves.
>If it's open, stick our head in and announce ourselves.
>As you approach the room, you find the door clearly open. The people inside seem to be discussing the geography of the pasture land and surrounding area, with various voices offering comments on which parts they tended to range their herds on, or where they were when they noticed disappearances. Things sound relatively orderly, at least with Lunasa adjudicating between people trying to speak over each other, though you imagine there must be more than a little tension given the circumstances. You step inside.
>There is a fair sized gathering here, almost more than can comfortably fit in the room. Unsurprisingly, the bulk of them are farmers, a couple of whom you recognize from the other day - including the woman whose tools you ended up losing during the confrontation with the spider youkai, you note a little wryly. But there are a decent few beyond this and a couple youkai among them. The bulk of them are arranged around a group of tables in the center of the room, with extra chairs pulled up along the sides for the remainder.
>Lunasa herself is at the front of the group. A dark-haired man of slight build stands beside her; you think he may work for the village council, or at least you think he did when you still lived here. The pair of them appear to be staring at a spread of charts on the table before them.
>As those who were already facing in your direction start to murmur, you announce your presence to the room.
>Lunasa turns towards you, along with a few other heads.
>"I'm glad to see you back on your feet," she says, giving you a once-over with a look of analytical concern on her face.
>"Me too!" Merlin pipes up. She seems to have seated herself somewhat off to the side, away from the head of the meeting.
>A couple other voices echo the sentiment, and you hear some whispering from among the rest of them; you catch more than a handful glancing at the sword in your hands.
(not to sound bad but umm.. we going get an update soon? <_< i really want continue)
My apologies for the delay, and no need to feel bad about the inquiry. If anything, it's always nice to see people care.
(Be patient. DracoOmega has a life outside of the internet, you know.)
Oh, would that this was more true than it is! ^^;
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Good to see you back, boss.
>Walking around with a blade in hand is gonna be getting us looks for days....
>Wave at Merlin. "It's good to be mobile again."
>To Lunasa and the apparant council member, and the crowd as well "Don't mind the sword. I kinda have to carry it this way for a while."
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>impending death is so inconvenient.
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>Walking around with a blade in hand is gonna be getting us looks for days....
>Wave at Merlin. "It's good to be mobile again."
>To Lunasa and the apparant council member, and the crowd as well "Don't mind the sword. I kinda have to carry it this way for a while."
>It might. The blade is still wrapped, but a proper place to sheath it would certainly be convenient...
>Merlin gives you a wide smile and waves back.
>This comment draws a few more murmurs from the crowd as well as frowns and looks of uncertainly. In retrospect, you wonder if the whole of the group had even been entirely certain it was a sword up to that point. Lunasa herself has no visible reaction.
>"We were just discussing the distribution of spider attacks," she says, still giving you something of a scrutinizing gaze. "Were you here to join the meeting?"
>impending death is so inconvenient.
>Along with a few other less pleasant adjectives...
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>"If you'll have me."
>Look around for a good place to sit.
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>"If you'll have me."
>Look around for a good place to sit.
>"Of course," she says. "You've had more experience with the spiders than any of us. Whatever you can contribute would be valuable."
>You scan around for a seat. While most of the table is packed, and even spilling out into the clusters of seats along the side, there is a little free space at the head of the table, next to Lunasa and the councilman.
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>Take a seat up there then, and take a look at what's on the table.
>"So, have the spiders started launching attacks while I was out cold? Scratch that, bring me up to speed on everything spider-related."
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>Take a seat up there then, and take a look a what's on the table.
>"So, have the spiders started launching attacks while I was out cold?"
>You take a seat and examine the charts on the table. They appear to be maps of the village and surrounding areas at differing levels of detail. There is a general map of the region, along with a couple more precise land surveys, with plot ownerships and such marked; you expect these came from the council office. Another is barely more than a sketch, clearly constructed recently, though with good penmanship. There are numerous markings on it, not all of them immediately meaningful to you. There are a series of dashes scattered across the pasture land, with names accompanying some of them. Several points in the forest are circled.
>"We've encountered some in the forest," Lunasa says, "though I'm not certain they were intended as 'attacks', as such. None of them have been seen in the village yet, nor have there been any more cattle taken since you left for their lair. Nonetheless, we're hoping to organize a more sustainable defense than what we currently have, in case they do come back."
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>"Hm....if they haven't attacked or done anything since I got back, then that might just mean i knocked 'em around enough to think twice."
>Shrug, "But then again, those spiders are a strange lot."
Maybe we should tell Lyrica, Lunasa, and Merlin about their leader in private? Don't want to worry the villagers anymore than they already are.
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>"How many different kinds of spider have you seen? I saw at least a half dozen in and around their lair."
I agree we should tell them about the youkai in private. I don't think we should put forth that she's their leader, because we can't be sure of that. And besides, they might adopt the 'chop off the snake's head' mentality, and that would be bad.
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>"Hm....if they haven't attacked or done anything since I got back, then that might just mean i knocked 'em around enough to think twice."
>Shrug, "But then again, those spiders are a strange lot."
>"No offense intended," Lunasa says, "but I suspect not. The ones in the forest did seem quite aggressive, at least, even if they weren't especially close to the village."
>"How many different kinds of spider have you seen? I saw at least a half dozen in and around their lair."
>The remark sparks more murmuring among the masses towards the back. You're starting to expect that now.
>"Two," Lunasa replies. "A green jumping spider and a substantially larger mottled brown and green one, nearly as long as a horse. We never encountered the acid-spitter that you mentioned, though we never set foot inside their caves."
>"We did find a few ways in, though," Merlin adds.
>Lunasa nods. "I marked the entrances we found on this map," she says, pointing to the darker circles. "There may well be others, of course. We've tried to see if there are any common trails they've been following, but the terrain is rough and there's a lot of ground to cover. I wanted to hear what you'd found before we entered ourselves. You say there are at least three other kinds?"
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I think that more than a few people should be told about the spider youkai in case she appears. It would be worse if she picked off a few townspeople because they didn't know to avoid her. But, we need not directly say we think she's the boss, just that she's a figure we suspect is dangerous.
That said, so far the danger seems slight as she's probably not been seen leaving her lair, given the lack of reports about strangers. But also, she's not actually had to worry about the village yet. It's a difficult thing to say, really. But if she does come then a little knowledge can prevent some death, it may be better to say something and nothing happening rather than not saying anything and having it occur.
>"How did both of those encounters go?"
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I'm not sure that a public fourm is entirely the place to announce her existance, but perhaps you're right in that informing others might not be a bad idea. Beyond the prismrivers, of course. This town council guy seems a good guy to tell, and Minoriko knows as well. This counciler would probably know better than us what to do with the information about the youkai.
>Add the two entrances we found, as best as remember, to their list of entrances, if they're not there already.
>Bring them up to speed about the spiders we encountered within the lair.
>Can we put a name to this councilor-looking gentleman?
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>"How did both of those encounters go?"
>"We've seen two of the larger ones," she replies, "though quite a few more of the smaller kind. The latter didn't seem aggressive if they were alone or spotted first, but the larger attacked us on sight."
>"It was kinda scary!" Merlin offers.
>"We did manage to kill it without real injuries," Lunasa says without missing a beat, "Although some of the smaller ones accompanying it lept down from the trees when our back were to them. Lyrica got bit twice."
>"I got one, too," Merlin adds.
>"I suspect they're poisonous," Lunasa continues, "So I asked Minoriko if she could examine one, and possibly work out an antidote if anyone else needs one. I'm told she's the best person in town to talk to about that sort of thing."
>"Recipes, too," adds a bright voice from towards the back, familiar enough sounding to raise an eyebrow and make you crane your neck to find its source. Sure enough, you can see a perky apple stem poking just a little above a line of heads in the rear, a flash of red hair visible through a small gap in them. That would be Kichigo, the village's resident apple youkai. What's she even doing here? You suppose she's nominally a farmer, but she's also rather flighty and not liable to be of much use to anyone in a crisis, even herself. Sweet enough girl, though, you suppose, if not the greatest sense of topicality.
>Lunasa pauses for just a moment before calmly resuming stride. "The second large spider we saw from a distance, as it entered one of the caves. We didn't pursue it. Of the smaller spiders that attacked us, we killed several, though I suspect several more escaped once their fellows were downed."
>Add the two entrances we found, as best as remember, to their list of entrances, if they're not there already.
>Bring them up to speed about the spiders we encountered within the lair.
>It's hard to tell if the point you exited the caverns is among the places marked on the map - you were far too out of it in the following minutes to track your own position. However, you're fairly confident the place you used to enter is not on their map; nothing seems to extend to that elevation, as best the crude level of detail seems to indicate. Unfortunately, you weren't mapping your own bearings precisely enough to indicate more than a very approximate location.
>You offer some detail on the other varieties of spider you encountered on your expedition, ranging from those who displayed no aggression to the glue-spitter and the spider with the excruciating venom. Lunasa and much of the crowd listens attentively, with the occasional comment exchanged between attendees.
>"Well, I suppose we'll consider ourselves fortunate not to have encountered some of those," Lunasa says, "though it would be nice if you had been able to get a description of the poisonous one..."
>She frowns a moment. "What were their numbers like, from what you've seen?"
>Can we put a name to this councilor-looking gentleman?
>...Daisuke, maybe? You're honestly not very sure.
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>"The little ones are definately poisonous. One of em bit me and practically paralyzed my arm. I talked to Minoriko before I came here, and she wasn't having a great deal of success at working on it. Said she'd keep trying, though."
>What was our relationship like with this Kichigo?
>For that matter, are there any other distinctive youkai we recognize in the room other than the prismrivers?
>"As for their numbers, it's hard to say. I killed what attacked me, but I didn't see their entire complex." Pause then. Not sure we should anounce the details of the hatchery to the general public, either, yet, at least. "I know there were a good many more in there than what I saw, but I couldn't guess how many."
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>What was our relationship like with this Kichigo?
>For that matter, are there any other distinctive youkai we recognize in the room other than the prismrivers?
>You never really had much of a relationship with her, as such, though you've interacted numerous times and she was always pleasant enough. She's technically older than you, though mental age and chronological age can be quite disjoint in youkai; she's always had a sort of lightsome innocence about her that you're inclined to think you outgrew fairly quickly. Sometimes she would drop by the orphanage, frequently with pie or muffins in tow, and play with the children for a while. You tended to consider yourself too old to join in, but the food was always a welcome treat. Otherwise, she could be seen buzzing around town on occasion, though she spent much of her time in the apple grove she calls home, in a sheltered field on the edge of town, past most of the cultivation.
>Scanning the room, you recognize at least two more. The first is easy to spot, being seated only a few chairs down from you and not at all the type to blend. Leaning an arm idly on her weathered shovel, but with an intense expression on her face is Chihiro Sukimoto, a shovel tsukumogami. She works as a laborer around town, in completely predictable fashion specializing in excavation, though you think she's half-decent at construction as well. You know she takes her work seriously, but is otherwise fairly easy-going, if a little brusk.
>The second seems nearly to be hiding away from the bulk of the gathering. You almost find yourself frowning a little as you spot her, despite yourself, and despite anything she's ever actually done to you.
Sitting in the corner, her black hair split in the middle by a distinctive lock of white, and looking just a bit uncomfortable is Shiori Niomaru, a skunk youkai. You suppose her presence isn't entirely surprising, though. You know she does some trapping, and probably spends more time in the forest around here than most.
>You know Ichirin had a hand in helping both of them get adjusted to their new lives, though this was also before your time. In Shiori's case in particular, you're quite happy you missed this, at least from some of the stories you've heard...
>"The little ones are definately poisonous. One of em bit me and practically paralyzed my arm. I talked to Minoriko before I came here, and she wasn't having a great deal of success at working on it. Said she'd keep trying, though."
>"And how much worse does that make it for the rest of us?" a voice calls out, followed by a small chorus of approval.
>"I'm afraid that's outside of my expertise," Lunasa says, frowning. "You would be better asking Minoriko, I think."
>"Meaning we might just drop dead if one bites us, right?" another says, more than a little confrontationally.
>"No," Lunasa continues coolly. "I mean that it's outside of my expertise."
>The man starts to protest again, but is cut off by a surprisingly firm voice from her side.
>"She's already answered your question, Genichiro," the councilman says. "Now, if anyone else feels they have actual expertise to add, feel free to do so. Otherwise, we still have more productive things to cover."
>There is a brief silence, and then a soft-spoken voice issues from the other corner of the room.
>"I- I don't think anyone can answer that," Shiori says, turning a few heads in her direction. "Not without someone being poisoned first. Every poison's a bit different, sometimes a lot different, and different creatures don't always feel it the same way, either. It mightn't hurt you any worse than it hurt Nazrin."
>"Or it might," Genichiro counters. Shiroi seems to shrink back a little. You can practically feel the councilman's glare, though your angle prevents you from seeing it. He opens his mouth to speak, but a brusk voice cuts him off almost before the sound is formed.
>"Then we just gotta make sure no one gets bitten, eh?" Chihiro interjects.
>"Easy for you to say," you hear someone else mutter under their breath, though you're inclined to think it was too faint for Chihiro to catch.
>"Indeed," Lunasa says, nodding. "As I said, they didn't seem aggressive unless they were positioned to ambush. If you stay away from the forests until this is resolved, you should probably be safe. And in any case, I'm sure none of us intend to let things stay this way for long."
>"As for their numbers, it's hard to say. I killed what attacked me, but I didn't see their entire complex." Pause then. Not sure we should anounce the details of the hatchery to the general public, either, yet, at least. "I know there were a good many more in there than what I saw, but I couldn't guess how many."
>"How many did you kill then, at least?" Lunasa asks.
-
>Skunk or no, if she's done some trapping, and knows the forest, she might be the type to help Lunasa out in the woods, if not with fighting the spiders directly, then at least with her familiarity with the terrain. We'll have to mention that later. Do we know if Shiori has any combat skills or experience to speak of? Beyond melting a few noses, of course.
>"Well, there were the two big ones and the acid-spitter I killed in my first encounter. I damaged another big one later, pretty badly, I think, but I'm not sure it survived or not. Inside the lair, I killed... At least half a dozen of the little green ones, the one that spat sticky stuff, and one more acid spitter." Pause and think for a moment. "The one with the nasty bite probably bought it, too. I knocked it, and its web, into a river. I heard it flailing about for a little, and then nothing. I'm pretty sure it drowned."
>"So that'd be at least 11, most likely 12."
>Adress the crowd, "And Lunasa's right about the little ones. They never attacked me by themselves, and even in a group, they seemed reluctant to come at me. Yes, they have a mean bite, but by themselves, they not a major threat. Plus, they go down fairly easy, too. A good bowshot or stab will put one down. So long as you can keep some distance between you and them, they can't really hurt you. Hell, every little one I killed in the lair, I did with a pitchfork, and I only got bit because they had me outnumbered at the time."
-
>"As long as you don't go wandering off alone, those spiders shouldn't be a real problem for us. I think that's the best advice I can give: don't go off on your own."
-
>Skunk or no, if she's done some trapping, and knows the forest, she might be the type to help Lunasa out in the woods, if not with fighting the spiders directly, then at least with her familiarity with the terrain. We'll have to mention that later. Do we know if Shiori has any combat skills or experience to speak of? Beyond melting a few noses, of course.
>You doubt she has any real combat experience to speak of, but you think she's shot bow at least a few times. You don't know good she is at it.
>"Well, there were the two big ones and the acid-spitter I killed in my first encounter. I damaged another big one later, pretty badly, I think, but I'm not sure it survived or not. Inside the lair, I killed... At least half a dozen of the little green ones, the one that spat sticky stuff, and one more acid spitter." Pause and think for a moment. "The one with the nasty bite probably bought it, too. I knocked it, and its web, into a river. I heard it flailing about for a little, and then nothing. I'm pretty sure it drowned."
>"So that'd be at least 11, most likely 12."
>Lunasa's brow creases, then she nods. "That's at least 16 between us, and if there's many more besides that..." More murmuring sets in among the group.
>Adress the crowd, "And Lunasa's right about the little ones. They never attacked me by themselves, and even in a group, they seemed reluctant to come at me. Yes, they have a mean bite, but by themselves, they not a major threat. Plus, they go down fairly easy, too. A good bowshot or stab will put one down. So long as you can keep some distance between you and them, they can't really hurt you. Hell, every little one I killed in the lair, I did with a pitchfork, and I only got bit because they had me outnumbered at the time."
>"See?" Chihiro says, in the general direction of the naysayers. "That doesn't sound so bad, does it?"
>"And what's to say they don't outnumber us?" someone replies. "There could be hundreds of them out there, for all you know."
>"None of us have seen them in groups anywhere near that large," Lunasa says. "They don't appear to travel en mass, and I doubt there are nearly as many as that if they've remained hidden all this time."
>"Doesn't mean they couldn't."
>"Doesn't mean there isn't one under your bed, either," Chihiro counters, her expression as nonchalant as earlier. "Want to go home and check?"
>"Ok, I think that's enough," the councilman interjects. Chihiro just leans back in her chair, while the other man lets out a frustrated sigh.
>"The present issue we have is not killing the spiders we encounter," Lunasa says. "We've already demonstrated that this can be done. What this meeting is about is preventing injuries to non-combatants and arranging a sustainable defense and warning system until the problem can be dealt with at its source."
>"As long as you don't go wandering off alone, those spiders shouldn't be a real problem for us. I think that's the best advice I can give: don't go off on your own."
>"Agreed," Lunasa says. "At this moment, it's much better for everyone to exercise more caution than necessary rather than less."
-
>"As near as I can tell, they don't have the ability to tunnel underground, at least not with any kind of speed. Their cave system seemed more natural than shaped; pretty old, too. That means, since you know where their lair is, and where at least some of its exits are, they can only come at you from there, and only over land."
>"And as for dealing with the problem at its source, I have an idea on that."
-
>"As near as I can tell, they don't have the ability to tunnel underground, at least not with any kind of speed. Their cave system seemed more natural than shaped; pretty old, too. That means, since you know where their lair is, and where at least some of its exits are, they can only come at you from there, and only over land."
>"And as for dealing with the problem at its source, I have an idea on that."
>"Oh?" Lunasa asks. "What would that be?"
-
>To the crowd as much as Lunasa, "It should be clear, by now, that the Prismriver sisters are quite skilled and quite powerful. But I know someone back in Braston that has skills and power neither they, nor I, possess. Marisa Kirisame. Some of you have probably heard of her before. She's probably the most powerful mage on this entire island, gotta be one of the strongest mages in the world."
>"I have to travel back to Braston on a... rather personal emergency. While I'm there, I can tell her about the situation out here, and send her back to help. Between Marisa and the Prismrivers, there's not a spider in the world that would have a chance."
>"Give me a couple of days, allowing for travel time for me and her. In the meantime, concentrate on defending your homes, and yourselves."
-
>To the crowd as much as Lunasa, "It should be clear, by now, that the Prismriver sisters are quite skilled and quite powerful. But I know someone back in Braston that has skills and power neither they, nor I, possess. Marisa Kirisame. Some of you have probably heard of her before. She's probably the most powerful mage on this entire island, gotta be one of the strongest mages in the world."
>"I have to travel back to Braston on a... rather personal emergency. While I'm there, I can tell her about the situation out here, and send her back to help. Between Marisa and the Prismrivers, there's not a spider in the world that would have a chance."
>"Give me a couple of days, allowing for travel time for me and her. In the meantime, concentrate on defending your homes, and yourselves."
>You explain to the crowd and Lunasa about Marisa, and your plan to have her deal with the spider issue. Lunasa frowns a little once it becomes clear what you're talking about, and the audience reaction seems mixed, turning rather more sour as you reach your final point.
>"That's it?" you hear someone say.
>"Marisa's no joke..." Merlin says.
>Lunasa leans towards you and whispers somewhat sternly. "You realize how much she charges, right?"
>"So, do we just sit here in the meantime and wait?" you hear someone else ask, sounding none to happy at the prospect.
>"Not like anything's happened in the last couple days," Chihiro says. "Probably nothing gonna happen in the next couple, either." Her tone gives you the impression she probably has mixed feelings on the issue, too, though.
-
>Whisper back to Lunasa, "Let's just say, I have a very good reason to think that she has a personal stake in this. And I have another reason for wanting her here, as well. But I don't want to explain them here. I want to talk to you and that councilman later, alone."
>Louder, "I'm not proposing anything Lunasa hasn't already. I want to see this situation resolved with as few casualties as possible, and I think bringing in a bigger gun will help acheive that. Chihiro's right, you've already handled the spiders well in the past couple days, another day or two more isn't likely to change much. The little ones aren't that big a threat, and even the larger ones aren't beyond you, and they're certainly not beyond the Prismrivers. Defend your homes, and keep yourselves safe. Remember, this was my home, too. I don't want to see anyone else get hurt if it can be avoided."
-
>"Trust me, I didn't go through all that garbage I did just to have things get screwed up at this stage."
-
>Whisper back to Lunasa, "Let's just say, I have a very good reason to think that she has a personal stake in this. And I have another reason for wanting her here, as well. But I don't want to explain them here. I want to talk to you and that councilman later, alone."
>Lunasa's frown deepens, but she slowly nods.
>Louder, "I'm not proposing anything Lunasa hasn't already. I want to see this situation resolved with as few casualties as possible, and I think bringing in a bigger gun will help acheive that. Chihiro's right, you've already handled the spiders well in the past couple days, another day or two more isn't likely to change much. The little ones aren't that big a threat, and even the larger ones aren't beyond you, and they're certainly not beyond the Prismrivers. Defend your homes, and keep yourselves safe. Remember, this was my home, too. I don't want to see anyone else get hurt if it can be avoided."
>"Trust me, I didn't go through all that garbage I did just to have things get screwed up at this stage."
>Your speech seems to mollify the crowd a little, though some people are clearly still not satisfied.
>"And this doesn't stop us from shoring up defenses in the meantime," Lunasa says to the gathering, then turns back to you. "Since you missed the earlier parts of the meeting, you may not realize that my sisters and I need to leave Easthaven by tomorrow morning at the very latest if we're to make it to Wynsdale on time. I do still want things to be better secured by then, if at all possible."
-
Feel free to pull this out if it's too confrontational or derp:
>Frown.
>"What's going on at Wynsdale that's so important?"
-
It DOES seem like the sort of thing Naz might say. Even if Lunasa might not like hearing it.
>Crap.
>"Yeah, that obviously slipped my mind about your tour."
>"But you're right in that it doesn't change the importance of stepping up security around town. That'd be the right thing to do whether either one of us is here or not."
>Gesture slightly towards Shiori. "You might want to talk to that youkai on that front, actually. I recognize her. She spends a lot of time out in the woods, and she's competant with a bow, far as I can remember. Believe me, being able to take down a spider at range helps a lot."
-
>Frown.
>"What's going on at Wynsdale that's so important?"
>Crap.
>"Yeah, that obviously slipped my mind about your tour."
>You ask Lunasa what the deal with Wynsdale is, then catch yourself as you recall the likely explanation. Well, this is inconvenient...
>"We've already pushed our schedule as far as it can go without missing that island altogether," Lunasa says, frowning a little uncomfortably. "But of course, I don't want to leave Easthaven in jeopardy. Given what I've seen over the last few days, it looks like people will probably be fine as long as we're cautious."
>"But you're right in that it doesn't change the importance of stepping up security around town. That'd be the right thing to do whether either one of us is here or not."
>Gesture slightly towards Shiori. "You might want to talk to that youkai on that front, actually. I recognize her. She spends a lot of time out in the woods, and she's competant with a bow, far as I can remember. Believe me, being able to take down a spider at range helps a lot."
>Lunasa nods. "Indeed."
>Shiori practically jolts in her seat when you point her out, and the heads of the crowd turn towards where you indicated.
>"I- I'm an okay shot, I guess," she stammers out. "But I've never fought anything dangerous, really..."
-
>Oops. Didn't mean to say that that loudly.
>Offer her a grin. "I'd never fought anything really dangerous, either, up until a couple days ago. I came though okay, all things considered. If we're lucky, though, you won't have to shoot at anything."
>"But that said, knowledge of the land is good, too. Knowing where to set a regular watch, knowing what terrains' good for laying traps, knowing what paths provide easiest and trickest passage, for spiders and humanoids alike. Anything you can offer- And that goes for everyone else, as well. Pool your knowledge, your experience, so we know where best to use the strengths of the village."
>Nod at Chihiro, and smirk. "Although I think putting a solid spear in your hands'd be a decent start."
-
>"With most of them, as long as you take them down before the reach you, they're not dangerous."
>Do we feel we have the artistic talent to draw the various spider types we've seen, roughly?
-
>Oops. Didn't mean to say that that loudly.
>Offer her a grin. "I'd never fought anything really dangerous, either, up until a couple days ago. I came though okay, all things considered. If we're lucky, though, you won't have to shoot at anything."
>"But that said, knowledge of the land is good, too. Knowing where to set a regular watch, knowing what terrains' good for laying traps, knowing what paths provide easiest and trickest passage, for spiders and humanoids alike. Anything you can offer- And that goes for everyone else, as well. Pool your knowledge, your experience, so we know where best to use the strengths of the village."
>Nod at Chihiro, and smirk. "Although I think putting a solid spear in your hands'd be a decent start."
>Oops!
>You try to reassure Shiori, though she still frowns uncertainly despite this and seems to shrink away into her seat. "I'll... do what I can," she says.
>"That is what we're here for, yes," Lunasa says. "I've tried to map what we discovered while scouting with anything anyone else has noticed - spider sightings, any trails that might have been repeated spider passage, and so forth. If we can get a better grip on their movement patterns, we may be able to keep a more effective watch, particularly since they seemed to have been able to steal cows without notice. I think we've found a few trails, but they unfortunately seem fairly decentralized."
>"Hey!" Chihiro says, hoisting her shovel a little and grinning broadly. "I got what I need right here."
>"With most of them, as long as you take them down before the reach you, they're not dangerous."
>Do we feel we have the artistic talent to draw the various spider types we've seen, roughly?
>"This is true," Lunasa says.
>If by 'roughly', you mean a blob with 8 sticks attacked, then maybe; you probably have about as much artistic ability as that shovel.
-
>Chuckle at the shovel's enthusiasm. "I believe it."
>"If it comes down to fighting, weapons with range or reach are your best bets. Spears, pitchforks, bows, throwing knives. Anything you can use to keep some distance between you and it. Including a decent shovel."
>Fill Lunasa in on every detail we can remember about our travels in and around the hillside, including where we met spiders each time, if we haven't done so already.
-
>"As far as getting more information, I could try to talk with the mice again. But they tried to avoid those things, so I don't know how much it'll help."
-
It'd slipped my mind about the mice we grilled on our way up.
>Add anything that could be useful that we gleaned from the mice to our report.
-
>Chuckle at the shovel's enthusiasm. "I believe it."
>"If it comes down to fighting, weapons with range or reach are your best bets. Spears, pitchforks, bows, throwing knives. Anything you can use to keep some distance between you and it. Including a decent shovel."
>"You better," she replies.
>You get some looks of acknowledgment to this, though a few others seem disapproving of the sentiment. Chihiro chuckles deeply.
>Lunasa nods. "I'd like to work out details on this before the meeting is over," she says. "Those who feel able to fight and are willing to volunteer for watches. Unzan can't cover the entire village perimeter himself. You probably won't have to use those weapons, but we should be prepared nonetheless."
>Fill Lunasa in on every detail we can remember about our travels in and around the hillside, including where we met spiders each time, if we haven't done so already.
>You do your best to recount your search through the forest in detail. Unfortunately, without keeping a chart of your own, or precise measurements, it's difficult to match up exactly with their maps. Nonetheless, Lunasa and the councilman do their best to chart your approximate course. The latter seems to have a keen knowledge of cartography, though none of the maps available render those parts of the hills in anything but broad strokes - not enough to be certain of where the entrance you used is located. However, it seems the Prismrivers had already retraced some of your trail directly when they went searching in the forest, which allows them to get a more precise marking of your initial encounter with the spiders, and the general direction the scent indicated a cavern entrance likely was. This one isn't on the map, either. On the one hand, you're providing them with new information. On the other, this means there's probably at least 5 entrances, now...
>"As far as getting more information, I could try to talk with the mice again. But they tried to avoid those things, so I don't know how much it'll help."
>"Well, I'll trust your judgement on that," Lunasa says. "I've never talked to a mouse before. At least those of them still living on the ground."
>Add anything that could be useful that we gleaned from the mice to our report.
>Unfortunately, they couldn't give you much more than vague descriptions of the spiders and the fact that they'd come and gone in the area around the pasture land. Anything they've said has been effectively superseded by your own encounters.
-
>"Have there been any more cows taken in the past couple days?"
-
>"Have there been any more cows taken in the past couple days?"
>Lunasa shakes her head. "Not that anyone here has noticed, at least. They've been kept away from the open pasture, where they're more sheltered and people can keep a closer eye on them."
-
>"That's good. Have there been any sightings near town?"
-
>"That's good. Have there been any sightings near town?"
>"None outside of the woods, at any rate," Lunasa says. "Though we did see one relatively close yesterday." She gestures to a marking on the map. Several similar ones are scattered about, growing denser towards the hills.
-
>"What happened?"
-
>"What happened?"
>"We killed it," she says. "There was only one."
-
>Nod.
>"A larger one or a smaller one?"
-
>Nod.
>"A larger one or a smaller one?"
>"Smaller," she replies. "Most of what we've seen have been those. Though given their tendency to remain hidden, I imagine we've overlooked as many as we've spotted."
-
>"So they're definitely paying attention. When was this?"
-
>"So they're definitely paying attention. When was this?"
>"Yesterday afternoon. Perhaps around 4 o'clock." Then she frowns. "And paying attention to what, exactly? To us? They've shown coordination at the local level, but if there's any wider organization to what they're doing, I haven't seen any sign of it."
-
>"I'll explain in more detail once I've gathered my thoughts. Have there been many sightings at night?"
-
>"I'll explain in more detail once I've gathered my thoughts. Have there been many sightings at night?"
>Lunasa shakes her head. "We've stayed out of the woods at night, aside from when we first went looking for you."
>"I... think I might have seen one at night," Shiori says. "A couple night ago. But I didn't get a good look at it - it was far away. I didn't even really know what it was then, but I... I think now it was probably a spider."
>"Where was this?" Lunasa asks, frowning.
>"Along one of my trap lines," she replies. "Off to the northwest, across the river."
>Lunasa glances at the maps in front of her. "Do you think you could point it out on a map? Even roughly will do."
>There is a moment's pause. "I can try."
>Lunasa nods to the skunk youkai. "Thank you."
>Shiori quietly stands up and works her way towards the front of the room. Her expression is neutral, but almost so forcefully so that you're sure some discomfort lies beneath it. The councilman stands aside to give her access to the maps and she looks them for a few moments before tracing a circle around an area to the west of the pastures' northern extent. "Somewhere around here, I think."
>"Hmmm... further west than we've seen them," Lunasa says, scrutinizing the map.
-
>Where's that location in relation to Ichirin's?
-
>Where's that location in relation to Ichirin's?
>Ichirin's is to the far south of Easthaven, quite possibly the furthest point in the village from where Shiori indicated.
-
>Did Ichirin give any indication of Shimmer's usual range of activity? How much ground she covers at night, that sort of thing.
-
>Did Ichirin give any indication of Shimmer's usual range of activity? How much ground she covers at night, that sort of thing.
>Nothing very specific, although the night you saw her making fireworks in the air, she was quite some distance to the north of the orphanage.
-
>"Shiori, have you been having any oddities with your traps, lately?"
-
>"Shiori, have you been having any oddities with your traps, lately?"
>"Oddities?" She frowns. "Well, I lost a trap last week, but that can happen every now and again. Other than that... I suppose the catch has been a bit light lately, but that's it."
-
>"Lost? As in, it's gone completely? How do they usually get lost?"
-
>"They might be looking for another food source, or another way to access this one, given that we seem to have thwarted their previous routes. Have to keep some eyes out there."
>"There's a fairy that hangs around Ichirin's place, Shimmer Stardust by name. She's nocturnal, so she might have seen something at night others might have missed. Plus she could be useful in patrolling at night, not only for spotting spiders, but sending up signal flares as well. Little thing's a regular nightlight."
>Speaking of food sources....
>Adress the council member, "This might seem a strange question, but has there been any seismic activity around here in the past few weeks? Major outbreaks of disease, wildlife deaths?"
-
>"Lost? As in, it's gone completely? How do they usually get lost?"
>"Well, big animals can sometimes go off with traps meant for the little ones," she says. "This was only a rabbit snare. It happens sometimes."
>"They might be looking for another food source, or another way to access this one, given that we seem to have thwarted their previous routes. Have to keep some eyes out there."
>"Possibly," Lunasa says. "Though given the range we've both seen them across, I doubt they were getting all their food from here in the first place."
>"How much do those things need to eat, anyway?" someone pipes up, a slight edge to their voice. "They've already gone off with more than a dozen cows. That's got to last them for a while, doesn't it?"
>Lunasa lets out a small sigh. "I don't think we can do better than guess. The largest of them were bigger than the cows themselves, so I imagine they need to eat a fair bit. Exactly how much, I don't know. Remember, we don't know how many of them there are, either."
>"Do you think that if they weren't hungry," comes a guileless voice from the back, "they'd leave everyone alone?"
>Lunasa turns to the apple youkai, her mouth creasing ever so slightly. "Well, they seem to have come here for food in the first place, so I imagine that's true, but-"
>"In that case," Kichigo interjects, "they're more than welcome to take as many apples as they want from my orchard. I don't mind."
>Lunasa seems momentarily struck dumb by this remark. Merlin lets out a very soft giggle.
>"I... don't think that's a... viable solution," Lunasa manages to sputter out.
>"Why not?" comes the lightsome reply. Lunasa simply goes mute again. You see more than one person in the crowd sigh or roll their eyes. Merlin giggles louder.
>"Spiders are carnivores," Shiori says, before the flustered violinist can manage to articulate a reply. "Normal ones, at least. These are probably the same."
>"Oh." You can hear a small note of disappointment in Kicihgo's voice.
>"There's a fairy that hangs around Ichirin's place, Shimmer Stardust by name. She's nocturnal, so she might have seen something at night others might have missed. Plus she could be useful in patrolling at night, not only for spotting spiders, but sending up signal flares as well. Little thing's a regular nightlight."
>"Oh, that kid?" Chihiro says. "She's ok. Long as she's not doing it right outside your window when you're tryin' to get some shut-eye..."
>"You can't seriously be suggesting we have a fairy keep watch, can you?" one of the farmers says. "Everyone knows how they are." There are a few mutters of agreement.
>"Doesn't hurt, does it?" another says. "I mean, if she spots something, great. If she forgets all about it the moment she's out of sight, we're no worse off than before, are we?" This too gets a few notes of acquiescence, though it's clearly a moderately divisive suggestion.
>Lunasa appears to have resumed her composure. "I agree. Any volunteer we can get shouldn't be disregarded, fairy or no. Keep in mind that, unlike us, she'd be at no risk if she did encounter a spider. We might be able to have her keep a watch over the actual heart of their territory, if we can get her to agree."
>Speaking of food sources....
>Adress the council member, "This might seem a strange question, but has there been any seismic activity around here in the past few weeks? Major outbreaks of disease, wildlife deaths?"
>The councilman gives you a rather incredulous look, mirrored more mutely from Lunasa. A few people in the crowd share uncertain glances with each other.
>"No," he says. "Why?"
-
>Points for effort, Kichigo. But let's try not to snicker ourselves, we'll let Merlin do that.
>"It's only recently those spiders were even seen around here. But they didn't just spring into existance, they were in those caves for a long time before now. If it's only now they've started coming this way, something had to have happened to their old food supply. What I'd like to know is what."
-
>Points for effort, Kichigo. But let's try not to snicker ourselves, we'll let Merlin do that.
>"It's only recently those spiders were even seen around here. But they didn't just spring into existance, they were in those caves for a long time before now. If it's only now they've started coming this way, something had to have happened to their old food supply. What I'd like to know is what."
>You manage to keep a straight face. Her heart's in the right place, at least.
>"Oh." The councilman pauses. "I guess that makes sense. But no, nothing like that."
>"I haven't seen any sign of them at all in the woods before now," Shiori says. "And I've spent years up there."
>"Me neither," someone from the crowd adds.
>"The caves aren't really that distant," Lunasa says, "even if they're mostly well-concealed. Even if the spiders had been getting their food from somewhere else, you'd think there would have been some sighting of them before now. Just from the past few days, we've seen them scattered over a fairly wide range of the nearby forest." She frowns. "What makes you so certain they've lived there for a long time?"
>"Uh, do you need me for anything else right now?" Shiori asks.
-
>Not here, Lunasa...
>"Well, I suppose it's possible they might have come from somewhere else, but if they did, they did it for a reason."
-
We suck at not tipping our hand.
If pressed, say we've seen some old, old, old looking webs in that cave.
-
>Not here, Lunasa...
>"Well, I suppose it's possible they might have come from somewhere else, but if they did, they did it for a reason."
>Stupid questions you don't really want to answer in public...
>"Maybe they migrated from somewhere to the north of the island," Lunasa muses. "That area isn't mapped very thoroughly, is it?" she says, turning towards the councilman.
>"Not as well," he says, shaking his head, "But it's not exactly unexplored, either. I'm surprised we still wouldn't have heard of them at all."
>She continues to frown thoughtfully. "I wonder if it could be a phenomenon a little like the birth of an animal youkai, except less complete and on a wider scale..."
>Then she glances back to Shiori, who's still standing at the front of the meeting with you. "I'm sorry," she says. "You can go sit down again if you want. And thank you."
>Shiori nods, then quietly moves back to her seat.
-
>Press our tail to our chin.
>"That's an interesting thought. I wonder if that's even possible. I'll have to ask Rinnosuke about that once I get back to town, after I see Marisa."
>Well, this seems as good a time as any. "But before I hit the road to get that mage, Lunasa, Councilor, can I have a quick word with you two?"
-
>Press our tail to our chin.
>"That's an interesting thought. I wonder if that's even possible. I'll have to ask Rinnosuke about that once I get back to town, after I see Marisa."
>Well, this seems as good a time as any. "But before I hit the road to get that mage, Lunasa, Councilor, can I have a quick word with you two?"
>You bring your tail around and press it to your chin. Lunasa almost imperceptibly raises an eyebrow at the gesture.
>She nods. "It would be interesting to know, but it doesn't change our current planning. However they got here, they are here now."
>"Can it wait until we're finished here?" he asks.
-
Now at this point, I feel we've contributed as much as we can to the general meeting. We've added our trove of information to what the villagers' have, we've drawn attention to a few individuals that can help and in what area they can do so in. Lunasa's a very conpetant individual, and I don't think she needs us hovering around to make sure she does everything right. She can handle things without us.
Even if she and her sisters have to leave tomorrow, I believe she'll leave the village capable of defending itself for at least the day it'll take us to get back to Braston and send Marisa back here to mop up. And the sooner we can get going, the better off we'll be, because we'll be that much closer to a cure, and it'll be that much quicker Marisa can get here. I suggest we take council-man and Lunasa aside, tell them about the youkai and the hatchery, and then find some transport for the road.
That said, however, if anyone else has anything to say to the crowd, go nuts.
-
I think I'll sleep on it, a bit.
It would probably be good to sit out the meeting, though. It's not like they're done yet, and if we know what they're doing, all the better.
-
>"It'll only take a minute. It's just a little thing I want to adress before I hit to road to Braston. The sooner I get going, the faster I can get Marisa here."
>To the crowd, "And on that note, does anyone have a spare horse I can use? A cart? Know someone going that way soon? I may have recouped enough to travel, but anything to shave a little time off the trip would be better for all of us."
-
>"It'll only take a minute. It's just a little thing I want to adress before I hit to road to Braston. The sooner I get going, the faster I can get Marisa here."
>Lunasa gives you an appraising look for a moment, then glances towards the councilman. He shrugs.
>"Alright," Lunasa says, then turns to the crowd. "We should only be a minute. Please wait calmly."
>To the crowd, "And on that note, does anyone have a spare horse I can use? A cart? Know someone going that way soon? I may have recouped enough to travel, but anything to shave a little time off the trip would be better for all of us."
>The room goes quiet for a moment as you scan the crowd for reactions. A few people glance somewhat expectantly towards others. Someone coughs. Then an middle-aged man with graying hair casually raises a hand.
>"You can borrow mine," he says. "She'll get you there fast enough."
-
>Do we know this fella?
>If so, "That's mighty kind of ya."
>If not, "I really apprectiate that, Mr....?"
-
>Do we know this fella?
>If so, "That's mighty kind of ya."
>If not, "I really apprectiate that, Mr....?"
>He looks vaguely familiar, but isn't anyone you've interacted with since coming back to Easthaven.
>"Kouichi," he says, nodding his head to you. "And don't you worry about it."
-
>"First things first, though."
>Gesture to the door for the benefit of Lunasa and 'Daisuke?' "Shall we?"
>If they shall, follow them into the hallway.
-
>"First things first, though."
>Gesture to the door for the benefit of Lunasa and 'Daisuke?' "Shall we?"
>If they shall, follow them into the hallway.
>Lunasa nods.
>"May as well," the councilman says.
>The two of the head into the hallway and you follow after them until you've put a small distance between yourself and the room. Then the councilman comes to a stop and turns to you.
>"So, what is it?" he says.
-
>"I won't keep you out here long, but there's something else I discovered in that cave. Something I didn't want to announce in a crowded room."
>Look Lunasa in the eye. "You asked me why I thought the spiders had been there a while. One reason for that is, I saw their hatchery."
-
>"I won't keep you out here long, but there's something else I discovered in that cave. Something I didn't want to announce in a crowded room."
>Look Lunasa in the eye. "You asked me why I thought the spiders had been there a while. One reason for that is, I saw their hatchery."
>Lunasa returns your stare gravely. The councilman mutters a note of disgust under his breath.
>"How large was it?" she asks.
-
>Inform her of every detail we can remember about the two chambers we opened.
>"I didn't go into the third one. I heard some skittering behind its protective webbing. I felt I was in deep enough, didn't need to find much more."
>"That's another reason I wanted to ask Marisa to handle this. I can't think of anyone better equipped to handle large numbers of... well, anything, even on their own turf, however big or small they are."
-
>Inform her of every detail we can remember about the two chambers we opened.
>"I didn't go into the third one. I heard some skittering behind its protective webbing. I felt I was in deep enough, didn't need to find much more."
>"That's another reason I wanted to ask Marisa to handle this. I can't think of anyone better equipped to handle large numbers of... well, anything, even on their own turf, however big or small they are."
>You describe the hatchery chambers that you saw, and the approximate size and number of the egg sacs within.
>Lunasa frowns. "Skittering? From hatched juveniles or others guarding them? Could you tell? If these things breed in the same numbers as normal spiders..."
>The councilman lets out a hushed curse.
-
>"I'm not real sure. Didn't stick around long enough to listen for long. But what I heard didn't sound large. Bigger than an average spider, of course, but nothing like anything we've seen out here."
-
>"I'm not real sure. Didn't stick around long enough to listen for long. But what I heard didn't sound large. Bigger than an average spider, of course, but nothing like anything we've seen out here."
>"How many?"
-
>"I only saw the shadow of one through the web wall. I didn't want to open the web to check any closer; 'd been bit enough for one day."
-
>"I only saw the shadow of one through the web wall. I didn't want to open the web to check any closer; 'd been bit enough for one day."
>"Well, perhaps we're fortunate and they lay only a few eggs," Lunasa says. "Still... We don't want them scattering off into the wilds, or Easthaven could be dealing with this problem for a long time. If some have already hatched, others may be due soon, as well."
>"Can we really afford to wait another couple days for this Marisa person then?" the councilman asks.
>"There's no doubt she can handle the spiders she sees," Lunasa replies. "My concern is that they won't all stay in one place for that to happen. If they start making nests across the woods, we'll probably lose any chance to wipe them out at one go."
-
>"I don't think they'll spread beyond the caves, at least not so soon. If they were going to, they probably would have done it already. We would have seen more signs of them than we already have. I don't know how fast spiders grow, but I'm pretty sure two days isn't enough growth to let them start roaming around too far from home."
>"Besides, other than waiting for Marisa, what's the alternative? Gather up an army and invade the cave? Yeah, you might win the battle that way, you might kill them all, but you might also lose half the population of Easthaven in the process. Or more than that, even. An all out-war between them and us isn't the answer. Vigilance is. Watch the forests, watch your homes, and watch yourselves."
>Crack a grin. "And, in a couple days time, watch the fireworks."
-
>"I don't think they'll spread beyond the caves, at least not so soon. If they were going to, they probably would have done it already. We would have seen more signs of them than we already have. I don't know how fast spiders grow, but I'm pretty sure two days isn't enough growth to let them start roaming around too far from home."
>"Besides, other than waiting for Marisa, what's the alternative? Gather up an army and invade the cave? Yeah, you might win the battle that way, you might kill them all, but you might also lose half the population of Easthaven in the process. Or more than that, even. An all out-war between them and us isn't the answer. Vigilance is. Watch the forests, watch your homes, and watch yourselves."
>Crack a grin. "And, in a couple days time, watch the fireworks."
>"I certainly wasn't planning to drag a mob of farmers into the caves," Lunasa replies coldly, actually sounding a little offended. "I would think that goes without saying. But a small group of us might be able to collapse some of the entrances and trap the spiders inside, leaving them to starve. You said yourself that you don't believe them capable of digging."
-
>"but you have to be sure you gotten every entrance. Otherwise they still be able to roam around and get out. Nor do we know how far the cave system goes really."
-
>"That's... really a good idea."
>Suppose we ought to have known her better.
>"Sorry, Lunasa. I was... expecting pretty much an all-out war up here, sooner or later. Guess I was trying to head it off before checking if it was even that far."
-
>"That's... really a good idea."
>Suppose we ought to have known her better.
>"Sorry, Lunasa. I was... expecting pretty much an all-out war up here, sooner or later. Guess I was trying to head it off before checking if it was even that far."
>While Lunasa may not have made a showy name for herself as a Seeker and has always treated it as a sideline to her main calling, you've never heard her described as anything other than competent, perhaps even stolidly so.
>She lets out a small flat sigh. "It's fine."
>"but you have to be sure you gotten every entrance. Otherwise they still be able to roam around and get out. Nor do we know how far the cave system goes really."
>"This is the biggest problem, of course," she says. "Still, we don't know for certain that each of these entrances connects with any others; some isolated caves are quite possible, even likely. And in any case, the fewer exits, the better watch can be kept over the remaining. Even if that just means there's fewer places left for them to flee from Marisa, all the better."
-
>"Might even discover another entrance or two while you're working on the others. And even if you bring down every entrance you find, I think we both know Marisa's more than capable of making her own way in. And collapsing it behind her, as well."
>"Plus, any spider caught outside the cave will either lead you to another entrance or another cave on their way back, or be picked off along the way." Give the poltergeist another grin. "You're not bad at this, yknow."
-
>Don't endorse the plan just yet.
I was going to suggest collapsing entrances earlier, but given it'd take hours, it would almost certainly invite the spider youkai to get involved...
-
>"Might even discover another entrance or two while you're working on the others. And even if you bring down every entrance you find, I think we both know Marisa's more than capable of making her own way in. And collapsing it behind her, as well."
>"Plus, any spider caught outside the cave will either lead you to another entrance or another cave on their way back, or be picked off along the way." Give the poltergeist another grin. "You're not bad at this, yknow."
And, for Purvis,
>"Just one thing crosses my mind, though. How'd you plan on bringing the entrances down? The one I saw, at least, didn't seem particularly unstable, and you might get rushed if the process took a while."
-
Not to mention if we do pull down one or two successfully, she'll figure out the pattern. Then all she has to do is beat us to one and ambush.
-
>"Might even discover another entrance or two while you're working on the others. And even if you bring down every entrance you find, I think we both know Marisa's more than capable of making her own way in. And collapsing it behind her, as well."
>"Plus, any spider caught outside the cave will either lead you to another entrance or another cave on their way back, or be picked off along the way." Give the poltergeist another grin. "You're not bad at this, yknow."
>You run through a few possible perks to Lunasa's plan, then compliment her competency. She responds with a vaguely chafed expression to your last remark, like she isn't quite sure how to take it, but says nothing.
>"Just one thing crosses my mind, though. How'd you plan on bringing the entrances down? The one I saw, at least, didn't seem particularly unstable, and you might get rushed if the process took a while."
>"Some of them are relatively small," she says, "and if we can break through part of their ceiling, we might be able to bring down enough debris to clog them. I've been told the shovel youkai can be quite good at this. We can escort her and keep guard while she works. If Ichirin's agreeable, we can even have Unzan on hand for an emergency escape, in case we need one."
-
>Do we know much, or anything all, about Chihiro's powers and/or tunnel destruction skills?
-
>Do we know much, or anything all, about Chihiro's powers and/or tunnel destruction skills?
>You don't know all the specifics, but you know she's quite a bit better at digging through things than that old shovel would suggest. In fact, you've heard she was quite a menace back in the day...
-
>"Having Unzan around will certainly help. I have to stop in to see Ichirin again before I hit the road, I'll mention that to her."
>Time for part two...
>"But before you start looking around for volunteers for this job, there's something else you need to know, too."
>"The spiders have a friend living with them. A female youkai."
-
>"You can see why I didn't just want to say that in front of everyone without running it past you."
-
>"Having Unzan around will certainly help. I have to stop in to see Ichirin again before I hit the road, I'll mention that to her."
>Time for part two...
>"But before you start looking around for volunteers for this job, there's something else you need to know, too."
>"The spiders have a friend living with them. A female youkai."
>Lunasa nods. "I discussed the generalities with her earlier, but that would still be appreciated."
>You steel yourself mentally. This mightn't go over so well...
>The councilman lets slip another note of frustration, somewhere between a sigh and a growl. Lunasa's gaze narrows.
>"You can see why I didn't just want to say that in front of everyone without running it past you."
>"Maybe," Lunasa says, giving you a hard look. "But perhaps you should say it just the same."
-
>"People are scared enough as it is, I didn't want to make things worse. That's why I wanted to tell the two of you, so you could decide if you thought the general public should know."
>"The youkai isn't in charge of the spiders, at least not as far as I could tell. She claimed to be their friend, at least as much as someone can be friends with animals. If I had to guess, she probably gets on with them about as well as I get on with mice; I can talk to them, but they don't always listen. Spiders might actually listen even less, they're more aggressive and predatorial than mice."
-
>"But they might not, it's hard to tell. The thing is...she's strange. And very wild in a lot of ways. But not so much in others."
-
>"People are scared enough as it is, I didn't want to make things worse. That's why I wanted to tell the two of you, so you could decide if you thought the general public should know."
>"The youkai isn't in charge of the spiders, at least not as far as I could tell. She claimed to be their friend, at least as much as someone can be friends with animals. If I had to guess, she probably gets on with them about as well as I get on with mice; I can talk to them, but they don't always listen. Spiders might actually listen even less, they're more aggressive and predatorial than mice."
>"But they might not, it's hard to tell. The thing is...she's strange. And very wild in a lot of ways. But not so much in others."
>"Well, this is just wonderful," the councilman gripes, looking up at the ceiling and shaking his head.
>Lunasa continues to hold her eyes on you. "She was responsible for what happened to you, wasn't she?"
-
>Nod.
>"And I was responsible for a lot of what happened to her. She's missing some feet, at least for awhile..."
-
>Nod.
>"And I was responsible for a lot of what happened to her. She's missing some feet, at least for awhile..."
>Lunasa's expression remains fixed. "Still... How did she do what she did?"
-
>Do you know about the blight, then, Lunasa? Well, let's assume you don't. For now.
>Fill the two of them in on everything we know the youkai can do, outside of the toxic cloud.
>"But I still gave as good as got, or more. At the start of our last encounter, she had 8 limbs. Now she's down to about seven and a half. And when last I saw her, she had a slash running the length of her body that I doubt will heal any time soon, a hole in her shoulder, and a knife in her belly. Sounds bad, I know, but she was trying to do worse to me."
>"I couldn't guess about her healing powers, but I'm willing to bet she won't be threatening anyone any time soon. That said, however, if she HAS recovered enough to come near the surface, she's worse than any spider I've encountered. If she catches you while you're working on the cave entrances, she might be able to give you a very bad day. You'll have to keep an eye out for her as much as for anything with eight legs."
-
>Before that, let's have a little frustration:
>"I don't know. I don't know how she did half the things she did. She could see without light. She could toss webbing, never seemed to run out..."
>Sigh.
-
>Before that, let's have a little frustration:
>"I don't know. I don't know how she did half the things she did. She could see without light. She could toss webbing, never seemed to run out..."
>Sigh.
>You allow yourself a little griping about your encounter with the spider youkai, then sigh.
>Do you know about the blight, then, Lunasa? Well, let's assume you don't. For now.
>Fill the two of them in on everything we know the youkai can do, outside of the toxic cloud.
>"But I still gave as good as got, or more. At the start of our last encounter, she had 8 limbs. Now she's down to about seven and a half. And when last I saw her, she had a slash running the length of her body that I doubt will heal any time soon, a hole in her shoulder, and a knife in her belly. Sounds bad, I know, but she was trying to do worse to me."
>"I couldn't guess about her healing powers, but I'm willing to bet she won't be threatening anyone any time soon. That said, however, if she HAS recovered enough to come near the surface, she's worse than any spider I've encountered. If she catches you while you're working on the cave entrances, she might be able to give you a very bad day. You'll have to keep an eye out for her as much as for anything with eight legs."
>Then you fill them in on as many details about her abilities as you can think of, outside from the cloud of miasma: her eyesight, wall-climbing, capacity to manifest arachnid limbs, and all the various tricks of webbing that you saw her perform.
>The councilman grows increasingly dour as you expound on your encounter, sometimes pausing to sigh or grump. Lunasa keeps nearly the same severe look the entire while, listening with razor focus.
>"And your illness?" she asks, once you finish.
-
>A small breath of air for a sigh.
>"She told you."
-
>A small breath of air for a sigh.
>"She told you."
>Lunasa frowns slightly. "You were burning with fever when we found you. It was clear how serious it was, given how it was being treated."
>"I'd say just about everyone's heard that much by now," the councilman says, giving you something of an odd look. "Ichirin had someone rush to Braston for a doctor that very evening."
-
>"She mentioned that. I just..."
>Take a moment, look away from them.
>"I didn't... want to- Yknow, just anounce it." Clench our fist slowly. "I'm dealing as best as I can."
>Look back at the two of them. "But yeah. She did that, too. Least I'm pretty sure she did. Big damn black cloud while I was trapped in a dead end."
-
>"She mentioned that. I just..."
>Take a moment, look away from them.
>"I didn't... want to- Yknow, just anounce it." Clench our fist slowly. "I'm dealing as best as I can."
>Look back at the two of them. "But yeah. She did that, too. Least I'm pretty sure she did. Big damn black cloud while I was trapped in a dead end."
>You take a moment and turn away, trying to steady the emotions you feel rising in you again as you think about your condition. The meeting may have been a good distraction, but nothing's really changed, has it?
>The councilman gives you a rather confused look as you turn back. Lunasa's eyes narrow slightly. Then you mention the black haze you were forced to breathe.
>"Can you describe it a little more?" Lunasa asks, still a lingering something in her eyes. "Size, density, any warning signs?"
-
>Describe as best we can the cloud that came after us, including as near an approximation as we can get on its size.
>"I'd managed to put a little distance between me and her before she unleashed it, so I'm not sure if she has to do any gestures, or spells, or anything like that. I smelled it coming before anything else."
-
>Describe as best we can the cloud that came after us, including as near an approximation as we can get on its size.
>"I'd managed to put a little distance between me and her before she unleashed it, so I'm not sure if she has to do any gestures, or spells, or anything like that. I smelled it coming before anything else."
>You describe the cloud as best you can, from what you witnessed.
>"You would have an advantage in that over us," Lunasa says. "But it should hopefully be less effective out in the open. My sisters and I should be safe from any disease it carries, regardless, but I'll need to ask Chihiro if she's willing to accept the risk."
>"And what about everyone else?" the councilman says sternly. Lunasa frowns and furrows her brow.
-
>Are the Prismrivers disease-proof, do we know?
>"The main problem I had with the cloud was that I was trapped at the time. Outside the cave, that shouldn't be an issue. And I don't think it moved that fast either, but even if it does, provided you've got eyes on the cave, you'll be able to see it coming. Plus, like Lunasa said, it might not be as effective in open air. I was underground, in an enclosed cave with no air flow, cloud had nowhere to go but pool around me and stagnate. That won't be the case outside the caves."
>Never have we wished so much we'd turned left.
-
>Are the Prismrivers disease-proof, do we know?
>"The main problem I had with the cloud was that I was trapped at the time. Outside the cave, that shouldn't be an issue. And I don't think it moved that fast either, but even if it does, provided you've got eyes on the cave, you'll be able to see it coming. Plus, like Lunasa said, it might not be as effective in open air. I was underground, in an enclosed cave with no air flow, cloud had nowhere to go but pool around me and stagnate. That won't be the case outside the caves."
>Never have we wished so much we'd turned left.
>You're fairly certain that poltergeists don't get sick. Then again, this disease is born of something supernatural; you don't know if that would change the rules a little or not.
>"Perhaps so..." Lunasa says.
>"We've got warn them, just the same," the councilman says. "So they know to stay the hell away from it." Lunasa frowns uncertainly.
>Oh bloody hell... When you think of in those terms, you almost want to scream at the sheer arbitrariness. How easy would it have been to go the other way? How little different would your footsteps have been? And yet... Never have you seen the stakes of a single simple choice writ in such stark relief: left, life; right, death.
-
>"That's the trick. I don't know what all she's capable of. "
-
>"That's the trick. I don't know what all she's capable of. "
>"What does that matter?" he says. "Only makes her more dangerous, if anything. We can't keep this from them. Someone could end up dead out there if they don't know any better."
-
>"That's your decision to make, counsilor. I knew I had to tell someone, but I wasn't sure dropping it in a room full of people was a keen idea. 's why I wanted to inform you and my fellow Seeker here first."
-
>"That's your decision to make, counsilor. I knew I had to tell someone, but I wasn't sure dropping it in a room full of people was a keen idea. 's why I wanted to inform you and my fellow Seeker here first."
>The councilman rubs a hand across his forehead and sighs.
>"Do you think she'll act aggressive towards the village?" Lunasa asks. "I understand you expect she's still injured, but let's assume she recovers quickly. What then?"
-
>"Then it's hard to tell. She's knows we're aware of her, and that we can take on spiders when we need to. She's also knows if she pushes too much, we'll strike back. I honestly don't know how hard she'll choose to push back; she didn't seem to believe me when I told her these things..."
-
>Take a moment to gather our thoughts on that one.
>"I... don't think so."
>"She wasn't the most informative of sources, but I had the impression that she would have been just as happy never to have seen a human. According to her, the only reason the spiders even went after the cows is because their previous food source, whatever that was, was all gone. She doesn't like surface-dwellers, by any stretch, but I don't think she'll come out of that cave as things stand now. Especially if she's hurt as bad as I think she is."
>"But she does have a grudge against me. To her, I invaded her home and murdered her friends. I don't think she'll come after the village unless someone goes as far as I did. And if, somehow, she finds out I'm still alive, she may well come to the village looking for me to finish the job. That's another part of the reason I wanted to leave sooner rather than later. If she DOES come after me, I don't want her here when she does."
-
>"Then it's hard to tell. She's knows we're aware of her, and that we can take on spiders when we need to. She's also knows if she pushes too much, we'll strike back. I honestly don't know how hard she'll choose to push back; she didn't seem to believe me when I told her these things..."
>"Unfortunate," Lunasa says.
>Take a moment to gather our thoughts on that one.
>"I... don't think so."
>"She wasn't the most informative of sources, but I had the impression that she would have been just as happy never to have seen a human. According to her, the only reason the spiders even went after the cows is because their previous food source, whatever that was, was all gone. She doesn't like surface-dwellers, by any stretch, but I don't think she'll come out of that cave as things stand now. Especially if she's hurt as bad as I think she is."
>"But she does have a grudge against me. To her, I invaded her home and murdered her friends. I don't think she'll come after the village unless someone goes as far as I did. And if, somehow, she finds out I'm still alive, she may well come to the village looking for me to finish the job. That's another part of the reason I wanted to leave sooner rather than later. If she DOES come after me, I don't want her here when she does."
>Then you pause and ponder the question more deeply.
>"A noble sentiment," Lunasa says. "If that's the case, I hope she's intelligent enough to tell the difference. Or that she doesn't simply wish to do to you what she feels you did to her. If she sees this as your home..."
>The councilman shakes his head. "This just keeps getting better..."
>"This does change things," Lunasa continues. "The spiders are more predictable, or at least they seem driven by instincts we can understand. This youkai on the other hand... whatever your feelings about what she'll do, she's a wild element."
>"Meaning?"
>"I think, at the least, we need to be even more vigilant than before," she replies. "There's only a few people in town who can face even an injured youkai of her rank, and we can't be everywhere at once. We may need to come up with a better sort of early warning system..." She frowns grimly, eyes drifting into thought.
-
>"What is your system like, now?"
-
>"What is your system like, now?"
>"Well, we hadn't yet worked out the details," she says. "But I'd been planning to organize volunteers into groups and have them keep watch around some of the parts where the village meets the forest. Unzan can cover most of the wider open areas, and is apparently fine with doing so for as long as we need, and we can cover the rest from the ground. I hadn't seriously expected many incursions - this was just a precaution, but..."
>She pauses "We can probably arrange rudimentary signals to spread the word if anything is spotted, at least. Ichirin can summon Unzan to wherever she is, and we can spread the more combat-capable around the village. It may be a wearying couple of days, but reaction time will be critical if she really does come here intent to harm people." She frowns. "I wish now that we weren't already committed elsewhere."
-
>"There is one upside, though... We do have a way to end this that isn't just killing every spider until there's no more to kill. Unfortunately, we're going to have to make her realize she can't fight us without heavy losses. And she certainly can't fight Braston..."
-
>"There is one upside, though... We do have a way to end this that isn't just killing every spider until there's no more to kill. Unfortunately, we're going to have to make her realize she can't fight us without heavy losses. And she certainly can't fight Braston..."
>"I'm not concerned about our ability to beat her," Lunasa says. "I'm just concerned about harm coming to anyone else here in the process. Easthaven is a very poorly defensible place."
-
>"Then it's to everyone's benefit that I get back to Braston as fast as possible. That's another reason I wanted Marisa here, to deal with the youkai. Not that I thought you and your sisters couldn't, Lunasa, I just wanted the village to be as safe as possible, and that means using the biggest gun I know of. Marisa will be able to handle anything the youkai can throw at her- She wouldn't even get the chance to throw that blight cloud at her before Marisa'd have her KO'd. To say nothing of what she could do to any spider that she met between here and there."
-
>"Then it's to everyone's benefit that I get back to Braston as fast as possible. That's another reason I wanted Marisa here, to deal with the youkai. Not that I thought you and your sisters couldn't, Lunasa, I just wanted the village to be as safe as possible, and that means using the biggest gun I know of. Marisa will be able to handle anything the youkai can throw at her- She wouldn't even get the chance to throw that blight cloud at her before Marisa'd have her KO'd. To say nothing of what she could do to any spider that she met between here and there."
>"Her reputation does precede her," Lunasa says. "Very well. We'll figure out how best to handle things here in the meantime. You make haste to Braston."
-
I think they deserve to know about our plan to have Ichirin try to rehabilite the youkai.
>"Believe me, I intend to."
>They should know. At least the counsilor should know. It's his town as well as ours, if not more.
>"About the youkai, though.... I've spoken to Ichirin about this and she's agreed to try and help this youkai learn to live amongst people. That's the last part of the reason I wanted Marisa here; I knew she could disable the youkai with less damage than any one I know, with much less risk to herself, and deliver her to Ichirin. Ichirin's been able to help wild youkai in the past, I think she can help this one, too."
-
>"Believe me, I intend to."
>They should know. At least the counsilor should know. It's his town as well as ours, if not more.
>"About the youkai, though.... I've spoken to Ichirin about this and she's agreed to try and help this youkai learn to live amongst people. That's the last part of the reason I wanted Marisa here; I knew she could disable the youkai with less damage than any one I know, with much less risk to herself, and deliver her to Ichirin. Ichirin's been able to help wild youkai in the past, I think she can help this one, too."
>You give Lunasa an affirmative and then decide that you should inform the pair about your intentions with the spider youkai.
>The councilman's mouth hangs agape as you explain, and he fixes you with an acrid look. "Here we are worried we don't have the manpower to keep her from killing someone, and you want to just invite her in?"
>Lunasa simply frowns deeply.
-
>Sigh, then walk away a few steps.
>"This might sound crazy, especially given what she did to me, but I... want to give her a chance. At life. The kind of life Ichirin helped me have, the kind I don't think she ever had."
>Look back at them, "She's angry, yes, but when I was confronting her, she seemed almost... damaged, is the word I'd use. Desperate. At the end, when we were fighting and I had the sword, she hated it more than she hated me, was afraid of it. I tried to walk away, to leave, after I cut her with the sword. She was surprised. Like she couldn't believe I didn't want to kill her."
>"The spiders are animals. They can't be reasoned with. But I think she can. I just wasn't the one that could do it. She hated me too much to believe in me, but it was ME she hated, personally. I couldn't reason with her, couldn't reach her, but I think Ichirin can. If anyone can, it's her."
-
>Sigh, then walk away a few steps.
>"This might sound crazy, especially given what she did to me, but I... want to give her a chance. At life. The kind of life Ichirin helped me have, the kind I don't think she ever had."
>Look back at them, "She's angry, yes, but when I was confronting her, she seemed almost... damaged, is the word I'd use. Desperate. At the end, when we were fighting and I had the sword, she hated it more than she hated me, was afraid of it. I tried to walk away, to leave, after I cut her with the sword. She was surprised. Like she couldn't believe I didn't want to kill her."
>"The spiders are animals. They can't be reasoned with. But I think she can. I just wasn't the one that could do it. She hated me too much to believe in me, but it was ME she hated, personally. I couldn't reason with her, couldn't reach her, but I think Ichirin can. If anyone can, it's her."
>You sigh and take a few steps away, then explain why you want to help her, and why you even think she can be helped. As you speak, Lunasa's frown grows softer, more thoughtful. You're not sure how well your words are getting through to the councilor; he still seems very dissatisfied, though perhaps as much tired exasperation as stern derision.
>"I suppose it's... possible," Lunasa says. "But I wonder why would she think like that in the first place..."
>"I'm not about to put people in harm's way for her benefit," the councilor says firmly. "If she wants to surrender, then maybe we'll see. But I'm not prepared to give her the benefit of the doubt after what she did to you."
>At this point, you're interrupted by the sound of footsteps rapidly approaching from down the hallway.
-
>Look toward the oncoming footsteps.
-
>Do we know if the town council has any say in who Ichirin can or can't house?
-
>Look toward the oncoming footsteps.
>You turn towards the footsteps to see Merlin swiftly approaching.
>"Sis!" she calls out. "They're getting kinda edgy back there. You've been gone a while and, well, you know how the crowd's like right now..." She frowns a little.
>The councilman sighs and heads back down the hallway, shaking his head dismissively. "Do whatever you're going to do," he says as he walks off. Merlin cocks her head at him quizzically as he moves past her.
>Lunasa turns to you. "I'm not sure I entirely agree with you, but you have more cause than anyone to be ill-disposed towards her, so I'll give you the benefit of believing this isn't simply a flight of romantic idealism."
>"What's wrong with romantic idealism?" Merlin asks.
>"I'll see if I can manage some sort of compromise," Lunasa continues, barely losing stride.
>Do we know if the town council has any say in who Ichirin can or can't house?
>They may technically, but you don't know for sure. To the best of your knowledge, it hasn't been an issue in past.
-
>Twitch.
>"Thanks, Lunasa."
>Turn to Merlin, better explain before she gets the wrong idea. "You're probably wondering what that was all about. Long story short, I want to let Ichirin try and rehabilitate the youkai I met in the caves. Counsilor Daisuke there didn't much care for the idea."
-
>Twitch.
>"Thanks, Lunasa."
>Turn to Merlin, better explain before she gets the wrong idea. "You're probably wondering what that was all about. Long story short, I want to let Ichirin try and rehabilitate the youkai I met in the caves. Counsilor Daisuke there didn't much care for the idea."
>Lunasa nods.
>"It's Kousuke," Lunasa corrects.
>Merlin's eyes widen a little. "You met a youkai in there? Is she a spider, too?"
>"I need to get back," Lunasa says. "Good luck to you, Nazrin, and good speed."
-
>"Thanks again, Lunasa. For everything. I'll buy ya a round when next I see ya."
>Assuming she departs then, turn to Merlin.
>"She's a spider youkai, that was obvious when she sprouted extra arms and tried to tear my own arm off with em." Crack a grin. "'course, now she's down to about seven."
-
>"Thanks again, Lunasa. For everything. I'll buy ya a round when next I see ya."
>Assuming she departs then, turn to Merlin.
>"She's a spider youkai, that was obvious when she sprouted extra arms and tried to tear my own arm off with em." Crack a grin. "'course, now she's down to about seven."
>Lunasa nods respectfully at the gesture, then bids farewell and moves off down the hallway.
>You turn to Merlin and answer her question, with perhaps a few more details than strictly necessary.
>Merlin winces sympathetically. "Owww..."
-
>"Hey, was her or me at the time."
>Offer up a small huff of air.
>"'course, she probably thinks she got the last word. She's the one that poisoned me."
-
>"Hey, was her or me at the time."
>Offer up a small huff of air.
>"'course, she probably thinks she got the last word. She's the one that poisoned me."
>"Well, you're back on your feet now!" Merlin says, giving you an encouraging smile. "Let her think whatever; she doesn't sound very nice, anyway."
-
>Lunasa might be the brains of this outfit, but Merlin's gotta be the heart.
>"And I aim to stay that way. There's a cure out there somewhere, waiting for me to find it. We're Seekers. That's what we do."
>"And as for the youkai... I'm hoping Ichirin can fix that." Cast a glance back down the corridor after Lunasa. "I get the feeling your sister doesn't hold much hope for the idea."
-
>"But she'll come around. It'll just depend on how many times we have to whack her on the nose with a slipper and say 'No!' first."
-
>Lunasa might be the brains of this outfit, but Merlin's gotta be the heart.
>"And I aim to stay that way. There's a cure out there somewhere, waiting for me to find it. We're Seekers. That's what we do."
>"And as for the youkai... I'm hoping Ichirin can fix that." Cast a glance back down the corridor after Lunasa. "I get the feeling your sister doesn't hold much hope for the idea."
>"Oh?" She gives you a concerned frown. "Still not feeling so good?"
>"Eh." Merlin waves a hand dismissively. "Sis is just like that. Always expecting the worst. She always means well, though - I'm sure she'll do her best to help."
>"But she'll come around. It'll just depend on how many times we have to whack her on the nose with a slipper and say 'No!' first."
>Merlin giggles.
-
>"Let's just say I haven't kicked this all the way just yet. But I will."
>"And I am glad that Lunasa's here, that you're all here, to help the village. Far as I know, they're never faced a threat like this before. It's good someone was here to help them all organize, do what they could. Hopefully, once Marisa gets here, she'll take care of things a bit more permanently."
>Jerk our thumb back towards the meeting room. "We'd best get back ourselves. I still gotta see Mr. Kouichi about that horse."
-
>"Let's just say I haven't kicked this all the way just yet. But I will."
>"And I am glad that Lunasa's here, that you're all here, to help the village. Far as I know, they're never faced a threat like this before. It's good someone was here to help them all organize, do what they could. Hopefully, once Marisa gets here, she'll take care of things a bit more permanently."
>Jerk our thumb back towards the meeting room. "We'd best get back ourselves. I still gotta see Mr. Kouichi about that horse."
>Merlin nods. "That's the spirit!"
>"Aww... that's kinda sweet of you," she says. "We're just lending a little hand while we're around. Well, Sis mostly; she does all the hard stuff. I just tag along."
>She nods again. "Let's."
-
>Meander back towards the meeting with Merlin.
>Merlin's kinda perky, ain't she. Do we like girls like that?
-
>Meander back towards the meeting with Merlin.
>Merlin's kinda perky, ain't she. Do we like girls like that?
>You make your way back to the meeting room. Already, you can hear Lunasa resuming direction of it.
>Perky, cheerful, kinda loud, not the sharpest knife in the drawer... Oh dear, there's that shameful drunken memory again. And here you thought you'd tossed it safely in the darkened recesses of your mind. Then again... do you?
>Soon enough, you arrive back at the meeting. Lunasa glances back in your direction as you enter, and gives you an uncertain frown. Merlin just gives her a little wave and heads back over to her seat.
-
>Glance about for Kouichi and, once we find him, attract his attention and beckon him over to us.
>Steal a glance at Merlin's backside when neither she not her sister are watching. Dull or no, she is kinda cute...
-
>Glance about for Kouichi and, once we find him, attract his attention and beckon him over to us.
>Steal a glance at Merlin's backside when neither she not her sister are watching. Dull or no, she is kinda cute...
>You quickly locate Kouichi and then try to flag him over. He look about uncertainly for a moment, then quietly stands up. Lunasa's gaze follows your own until she ascertains what you're doing, then she turns back to the crowd and continues where she left off.
>You steal a quick glance at Merlin's backside as she returns to her seat. Her skirt is really too loose-fitting to see much, but she does fill out the rest of her outfit rather pleasantly. Frankly speaking though, the better view is from the front...
>Koichi makes his way over to you. "So, I guess you're wanting to get going as fast as you can, then?"
-
>Give him a nod. "Speed'll serve everyone of us well."
-
>Give him a nod. "Speed'll serve everyone of us well."
>He nods. "Right you are. May as well get going, then."
>He starts to exit the room.
-
>Follow him.
>Glance behind on the way out. Spare a moment to hope that everyone in that room will still be here, intact and alive, when this is over, and we come back.
>Spare another moment to hope that, despite our bravado, we make it back intact and alive. Somehow.
-
>Follow him.
>Glance behind on the way out. Spare a moment to hope that everyone in that room will still be here, intact and alive, when this is over, and we come back.
>Spare another moment to hope that, despite our bravado, we make it back intact and alive. Somehow.
>You start to follow, then pause a moment and look back at the room. A few people are still looking in your direction, some curiously, others dubiously. Merlin smiles and waves a quick goodbye to you. You hope fervently that everything here will still be waiting for your return, and that can you make good on your promise to find a cure for yourself before... before it's too late.
>Then you turn away one last time and follow Koichi out.
>He leads you out of the hall and past the village center at a brisk pace, heading northeast. Though you exchange a few words along the way, it is a quiet trip. Given the weight upon your mind at the moment, perhaps this is not entirely for the best; with nothing else to hold your focus, you can feel yourself ruminating. Despite all that you've said, and despite what you'd even like to think about yourself, it's still... frightening. The thought that, no matter how narrow the chance, this really could be it. It feels somehow different than when you're fighting for your life in the moment, perhaps simply because then you didn't have time to think. But now?
>You arrive at Koichi's stable and he leads out a dark bay mare and hitches her to a cart. The horse is sterner looking than the one you road to Braston on the other day, though she gives off an impression of being fitter and stronger as well. The cart is still a simple affair, though perhaps smaller than the last, if more finely made.
>"Don't be afraid to push her a little," Koichi says. "'long as she's still in one piece by Braston. You just get that Marisa person here as quick as you can."
-
>"I can arrange to stable her when I get there, of course, but, did you intend to pick her up yourself? Have someone bring her back here? Just so I know what to tell the hands where I leave her."
>Learned our lesson after that fruit cart. Questions to ask first.
-
>"I can arrange to stable her when I get there, of course, but, did you intend to pick her up yourself? Have someone bring her back here? Just so I know what to tell the hands where I leave her."
>Learned our lesson after that fruit cart. Questions to ask first.
>"I guess if Marisa's supposed to coming back here straightaway, not going to have time to rest her up." He pauses. "Just stable her. I'll get someone going in tomorrow morning to pick her up."
-
>"Got it."
>Climb into the cart.
>"Wish me luck. And keep your head down when Marisa shows up. She gets carried away from time to time."
>Back to Minoriko's for that medicine.
-
>"Got it."
>Climb into the cart.
>"Wish me luck. And keep your head down when Marisa shows up. She gets carried away from time to time."
>Back to Minoriko's for that medicine.
>You hop into the cart and leave the man a warning about the enthusiastic tendencies of the help you're fetching. He frowns warily, then gives a little nod. "Good luck to ya!"
>Then you flick the reins and head back towards the village center. The horse is a bit feistier in your grip than the last, but manageable nonetheless, and a short time you arrive back at the Harvest's Bounty.
-
>Hitch the cart and head inside.
-
>Hitch the cart and head inside.
>You hitch the cart and step inside. The inn is substantially busier than when you were here last, though you think you've missed most of the lunchtime rush - many people seem to be finishing their meals, rather than starting them. There's no sign of Minoriko at the moment, though you spot another girl who appears to be a waitress.
-
>Are we hungry?
>Flag down the waitress.
>Assuming we do, ask her where Minoriko is.
-
>Are we hungry?
>Flag down the waitress.
>Assuming we do, ask her where Minoriko is.
>You had a late breakfast not too long ago. You think you're good for a little while.
>You flag down the waitress and ask after Minoriko.
>"You're Nazrin, right?" she says. "She's been taking the afternoon off, but she told me that if you dropped by to tell you just to go on down and knock."
-
>"Thanks."
>Go on down and knock.
-
>"Thanks."
>Go on down and knock.
>"No problem" she replies.
>You head down to Minoriko's room and knock on the door.
>"Just a moment!" comes her voice warmly from inside. Sure enough, a moment later, the door opens.
>"Oh, Nazrin," she says, then smiles at you. "It's almost ready, if you can wait just a few more minutes."
-
>"Yeah, sure. Anything I can do to help out?"
-
>"Yeah, sure. Anything I can do to help out?"
>"No, not at all," she says, shaking her head. "I just have to mix the last part of it together and wait for it to cool a little. But thanks anyway."
>She gestures inward. "Come in and have a seat if you like."
-
>Go in and have a seat, see if she has anything else to say.
-
>Go in and have a seat, see if she has anything else to say.
>You step inside and take a seat. Minoriko closes the door behind you, then putters off down the hallway and disappears into another room.
>"I shouldn't be too long!" she calls back.
>There is a very pungent smell in the room, sharp and earthy. It's almost unpleasantly strong, in fact, though not quite enough to drive you to flee. From down the hall, you can hear Minoriko working away at whatever it is that she's doing, humming pleasantly to herself as she goes.
-
>Compared to some of the smells we experienced back in the cave, this can't be TOO bad. ... Can it? Try to focus on whatever food smells are lingering in the air.
>May as well take stock. Is that sword the only weapon we have left now?
-
>Compared to some of the smells we experienced back in the cave, this can't be TOO bad. ... Can it? Try to focus on whatever food smells are lingering in the air.
>May as well take stock. Is that sword the only weapon we have left now?
>It's certainly not on the level of vileness that some of what you encountered back there was. If anything, this is simply too strong as opposed to outright unpleasant. It is rather reminiscent of the taste of the medicine you took the other night, if a little warmer and more pungent. Unfortunately, it does rather dominate the food smells, with the door and hall in the way.
>You decide to spend a few moments taking stock of your inventory. While you know full-well that you expended or lost every other weapon you possessed along the course of your expedition, a search through your pack uncovers an unexpected item: a kunai, clean and intact! If it's not yours, its make is exactly like it. This raises a question or two... Inclusive of this, your current possessions are:
>Ancient katana (wrapped in cloth)
>Prism Pendant (around neck)
>Seeker's Badge (pinned to chest)
>Borrowed kosode and work pants (worn)
>195 Val Razuan guilders
>Compass
>Traveling pack
>Traveling rations
>Canteen (empty)
>Lockpicks
>1 kunai
>Picture of Sokrates
>Fuwafuwa Heart Droplet
>Mysterious rusty part
>Antique Val Razuan 1 guilder coin
>Dowsing rods
>Tie-dyed umbrella
>Spool of baling twine
>Sharpened quartz stone
-
>Now that does raise furthur questions. Could we have picked up the one left in the woods and not even realized it?
>Ponder that while we wait for Minoriko.
-
>Now that does raise furthur questions. Could we have picked up the one left in the woods and not even realized it?
>Ponder that while we wait for Minoriko.
>You were pretty out of it on your way back, but you don't know you would have had the presence of mind to pick it up, even if you stumbled across it. But even that wouldn't explain how it's ended up cleaner than when you saw it last. You're fairly certain you haven't been sleep-washing, unless the symptoms of this disease are very odd indeed.
>As you ponder that and other things, Minoriko returns carrying a bottle of dark greenish liquid.
>"Sorry to keep you waiting," she says.
-
>"No worries."
>"So is that just one dose, or should I space that bottle out?"
-
>"No worries."
>"So is that just one dose, or should I space that bottle out?"
>"Oh, goodness no," she says, looking a little taken aback. "I should hope this is enough to last you well past a week, at least."
>She hands you the bottle. "Take two capfuls each morning and night, and be careful not to let it slip your mind. This is what's keeping you on your feet right now."
-
>"No worries of that, Minoriko, believe me."
>Consider placing the bottle in our pack, then pause.
>"You got something I can wrap this in, bit of cloth, maybe?"
-
>"No worries of that, Minoriko, believe me."
>Consider placing the bottle in our pack, then pause.
>"You got something I can wrap this in, bit of cloth, maybe?"
>"Oh, of course. Just one minute," she says, darting off to another of the rear rooms.
>A few moments later, she returns with what appears to be a small orange hand towel. "Will this do?"
-
>"Perfect."
>Accept the towel, wrap the jar in it, then place the jar carefully in our packs.
>"Last thing I want is that jar breaking on me."
>Pause, then look at her in the eye.
>"Look, Minoriko, just wanted to say, before I leave. Whatever happens to me, I know you did everything you could. I probably wouldn't even be able to try and find a cure if you hadn't come up with this medicine here. So, thanks."
-
>"Perfect."
>Accept the towel, wrap the jar in it, then place the jar carefully in our packs.
>"Last thing I want is that jar breaking on me."
>You take the towel, wrap the bottle of medicine, and place it in your pack.
>"No, certainly not," she says.
>Pause, then look at her in the eye.
>"Look, Minoriko, just wanted to say, before I leave. Whatever happens to me, I know you did everything you could. I probably wouldn't even be able to try and find a cure if you hadn't come up with this medicine here. So, thanks."
>Minoriko gives you a warm and gentle smile, quiet hints of sadness stirring behind her eyes. "I only wish I could do more, but... you're welcome."
>"I have one more thing for you, before you go," she says, reaching into her pocket and producing a small brown sachet tied with cord. "Inside this is some soil, imbued with as much power as I could lend it. Any seeds you plant in it will grow hearty and quickly. In case you find some remedy out there which would take more time to prepare than you... have."
-
>"Wow, that sounds incredible. Thank you!"
-
>Graciously accept the gift.
>"I don't know what I'm going to find, but I'll take any edge I can get. And this definately qualifies."
-
>"Wow, that sounds incredible. Thank you!"
>She nods slightly. "Whatever little thing I can do to help."
>Graciously accept the gift.
>"I don't know what I'm going to find, but I'll take any edge I can get. And this definately qualifies."
>You accept the sachet of soil.
>"Good luck, Nazrin," she says. "I'll be keeping you in my thoughts while you're gone. Please... be the exception."
-
>Depart from the goddess, to our borrowed ride, then return to Ichirin's.
-
>Depart from the goddess, to our borrowed ride, then return to Ichirin's.
>You bid farewell to Minoriko, then return to your horse and drive south along the road past the village to Ichirin's. It is a brief and quiet trip and you arrive without incident. The weather is even showing some small signs of clearing up - more than welcome given the long haul ahead of you.
-
>Hitch the horse somewhere appropriate.
>"We'll be on the road soon, soon as I see Ichirin here."
>Head inside and listen/smell for Ichirin.
-
>Hitch the horse somewhere appropriate.
>"We'll be on the road soon, soon as I see Ichirin here."
>Head inside and listen/smell for Ichirin.
>You hitch the horse and leave it with a few words of encouragement before entering and searching for Ichirin.
>She turns out to not be very difficult at all to find. You hear some sounds from the common room as you enter the house. Poking your head in, you see Ichirin tidying up the place and doing some light cleaning. She turns her head around as you step in, and a smile tugs tentatively at her face once she recognizes you. She puts down what she's doing and turns around, then she nods slightly. "Good afternoon."
-
>"I just wanted to stop in before I made my way back to Braston. Fella name Kouichi hooked me up with a ride, and Minoriko gave me enough medicine to see me through for a while."
>Lower our voice, "And I mentioned the spider youkai to counsilor Kousuke. He wasn't too fond of the idea of you helping her."
-
>"I just wanted to stop in before I made my way back to Braston. Fella name Kouichi hooked me up with a ride, and Minoriko gave me enough medicine to see me through for a while."
>Lower our voice, "And I mentioned the spider youkai to counsilor Kousuke. He wasn't too fond of the idea of you helping her."
>"That's good," she says.
>Ichirin gives a small knowing smile and slowly shakes her head. "It's to be expected. Leave that for me to worry about."
-
>Twist our mouth a little, "I don't like the thought of you getting in trouble on what may be a fool hope on my part. But I know I can trust you to handle your own affairs. Just let me know if anyone gives you any grief when I get back, and I'll settle their hash."
>"Anyway. Lunasa, or someone from the council, is gonna be by here sooner or later asking about Unzan. They have a plan to try and cut off the spiders at their source, at least until Marisa arrives, but they're gonna want Unzan's help for it.
-
>Twist our mouth a little, "I don't like the thought of you getting in trouble on what may be a fool hope on my part. But I know I can trust you to handle your own affairs. Just let me know if anyone gives you any grief when I get back, and I'll settle their hash."
>"Anyway. Lunasa, or someone from the council, is gonna be by here sooner or later asking about Unzan. They have a plan to try and cut off the spiders at their source, at least until Marisa arrives, but they're gonna want Unzan's help for it.
>"It's not a fool hope, Nazrin," she says softly. "Even if it turns out to be a false one, it isn't foolish to offer a hurt and angry soul the chance for a better life. Though I don't think there will be any need of hash-settling, either," she adds chasteningly. "They're only worried about their own home and families. You've shown them just how dangerous she can be, so I can't say this is wrong of them, either. I think we can work something out."
>She nods. "What do they want us to do?"
-
>Sketch her in on Lunasa's plan.
>"Between the spiders and the youkai, if she's healed up enough to cause any trouble, they wanted to have Unzan along to watch their backs."
-
>Sketch her in on Lunasa's plan.
>"Between the spiders and the youkai, if she's healed up enough to cause any trouble, they wanted to have Unzan along to watch their backs."
>You fill Ichirin in on the details of the plan.
>"Chihiro can do it, I'm sure," she says, "if they can give her enough time without being overrun. It's more peaceable than I might have expected, as well." She nods. "We'll be ready whenever they ask."
-
>"We all agreed that none of us were looking for an all-out fight between Easthaven and spider, and that we wanted to minimize casualties as much as possible. Plus, it'll make dealing with stray spiders outside easier, if they can't get reinforcements."
>"Not sure if I mentioned this before, but Marisa's the one I plan to ask to deliver the youkai to here. Blonde hair, probably riding a broomstick, big voice, she'll be hard to miss. Especially since there's an outside chance half that hillside will explode a few minutes after she goes in."
>Crack a grin. "Incidentally, if a little fairy shows up tagging along behind her, introduce her to Shimmer. I think they'd get on well together."
-
>"We all agreed that none of us were looking for an all-out fight between Easthaven and spider, and that we wanted to minimize casualties as much as possible. Plus, it'll make dealing with stray spiders outside easier, if they can't get reinforcements."
>"Not sure if I mentioned this before, but Marisa's the one I plan to ask to deliver the youkai to here. Blonde hair, probably riding a broomstick, big voice, she'll be hard to miss. Especially since there's an outside chance half that hillside will explode a few minutes after she goes in."
>Crack a grin. "Incidentally, if a little fairy shows up tagging along behind her, introduce her to Shimmer. I think they'd get on well together."
>Ichirin looks rather startled by your description of Marisa's arrival. "Explode? Are you... sure she's the right person to be doing this?"
-
>"Best person I could ever think to have do it. I know her well enough that while her methods might be a tad Volatile, she's really the best seeker I know that I can count on to get the job done."
>Smile somewhat.
>"Best one for the job, because she's a good friend."
-
>"And...she'll give our friend an idea of what she's really up against. It'll be harder for her to just write off my warnings when they're in plain sight. Oh, is there room for her to stay here?"
-
>"Best person I could ever think to have do it. I know her well enough that while her methods might be a tad Volatile, she's really the best seeker I know that I can count on to get the job done."
>Smile somewhat.
>"Best one for the job, because she's a good friend."
>"Well, as long as she doesn't kill her in the process..." she says warily. "But... if you trust her, I can trust her too."
>"And...she'll give our friend an idea of what she's really up against. It'll be harder for her to just write off my warnings when they're in plain sight. Oh, is there room for her to stay here?"
>Ichirin nods. "Yes, we've got a couple rooms free. As I said, it's been pretty quiet around here these past years."
-
>And if Marisa blows up the hillside, and its denizens after she gets the youkai to where we want her, well, so much the better for Easthaven.
>"Just one more thing. When I was examining my pack earlier on, I found a kunai in there. Now, I seem to remember losing all three that I had. You have any idea where that one might have come from?"
-
>And if Marisa blows up the hillside, and its denizens after she gets the youkai to where we want her, well, so much the better for Easthaven.
>"Just one more thing. When I was examining my pack earlier on, I found a kunai in there. Now, I seem to remember losing all three that I had. You have any idea where that one might have come from?"
>Easthaven would certainly be better off without them wandering the woods, though you wonder what effect this would have on the youkai's chances of acquiescing to a peaceable existence...
>"Oh yes, that," she says. "Lunasa gave it to me yesterday. Evidently her and her sisters found it stuck in the ground along a trail of yours they'd been tracking, and figured it was yours. I cleaned it up a little and put it back with your things."
-
>"Neat. I thought that one was still stuck up under a tree somewhere."
>Restrain a facepalm.
>"Yknow, with everything that's happened since I got back, I almost forgot that I came out here in the first place on a job. Technically, I did actually complete it, so..."
-
>"Neat. I thought that one was still stuck up under a tree somewhere."
>Restrain a facepalm.
>"Yknow, with everything that's happened since I got back, I almost forgot that I came out here in the first place on a job. Technically, I did actually complete it, so..."
>Ichirin frowns uncomfortably. "Unfortunately, I don't think this is the end anyone was expecting. None of the cattle are returned, and what took them is still at large. I know it's not your fault," she adds quickly. "You've done more than could possibly be expected from the job description, and some of it was probably impossible from the start." She trails off.
-
>Twitch.
>"Are you telling me that I'm not getting paid for this?"
-
>Twitch.
>"Are you telling me that I'm not getting paid for this?"
>"No," she says firmly. "No, I'm not prepared to let that happen."
>She pauses. "I have... some of the money that was pooled together. Not all of it. A few people wanted to wait for results before they were willing to commit anything. But still, it's some. More than what several people likely want to pay you, and not nearly as much as you deserve for what you've been through." Her eyes harden. "I won't let them back out, not after all this. If they want to argue that you don't deserve it, let them try."
-
>Smile despite ourselves.
>"You're a good woman, Ichirin."
-
>Smile despite ourselves.
>"You're a good woman, Ichirin."
>You give Ichirin a smile.
>The edge almost self-consciously falls from her face. "It's only what's just," she says. "And someone could easily have gotten killed if you hadn't discovered the spiders."
-
>"And it's fair to say things might not have gone so well if someone else had gone into that cave. For better or for worse, I did make it out. Not everyone else would've been that lucky."
>"I'll sure take whatever money I can get my hands on. It's not impossible I'll have to do some traveling to find a cure, depending on what Rinnosuke has to tell me, and fast transport don't always come cheap."
-
>"And it's fair to say things might not have gone so well if someone else had gone into that cave. For better or for worse, I did make it out. Not everyone else would've been that lucky."
>"I'll sure take whatever money I can get my hands on. It's not impossible I'll have to do some traveling to find a cure, depending on what Rinnosuke has to tell me, and fast transport don't always come cheap."
>"Most definitely," she says.
>Ichirin pauses a moment, looking at you, then nods. "Of course."
-
>"Well, the sooner I have it, the sooner I can be on the road."
-
>"Well, the sooner I have it, the sooner I can be on the road."
>"Yes, of course," she says. "I'll go get it."
>Ichirin leaves the common room and walks down the hallway, her footsteps trailing off in the direction of her bedroom. A minute or so later, she returns, clutching a handful of coins.
>"Here's what I have," she says, handing it to you. "280 guilders."
-
>Makes a mouse wonder what the pay would have been at full? Ah, well, take what a girl can get. So that means we're worth now, what, 375?
>"Thanks."
>"I'll be sure to send word as soon as I've found a cure." Pause, then swallow. Honesty, Nazrin... "And even if I can't."
-
>Makes a mouse wonder what the pay would have been at full? Ah, well, take what a girl can get. So that means we're worth now, what, 375?
>"Thanks."
>"I'll be sure to send word as soon as I've found a cure." Pause, then swallow. Honesty, Nazrin... "And even if I can't."
>The sum is actually quite a bit better than her discussion of it would have led you to believe. In fact, you wouldn't be surprised to see full payment at less than this rate. And this brings your current total to 475.
>Ichirin's calm and composed expression wavers for a moment, and then gives way to quiet sorrow. She puts her arms around you. "I know you will..."
-
>Oops, forgot to carry the 1.
>Return the gesture, and then disengage when we feel her do the same.
>Put on a strong face, just the hint of a grin. Heaven forbid this be the last she sees us, but if it is, then it'll be at our best.
>"Take care of yourself, Ichirin."
>If she doesn't stop us, depart, unhitch our cart, and hit the road to Braston. And offer a wave to Ichirin or anyone else that comes out of the home to see us off. Assuming they don't stop us, of course.
-
>Oops, forgot to carry the 1.
>Return the gesture, and then disengage when we feel her do the same.
>Put on a strong face, just the hint of a grin. Heaven forbid this be the last she sees us, but if it is, then it'll be at our best.
>"Take care of yourself, Ichirin."
>If she doesn't stop us, depart, unhitch our cart, and hit the road to Braston. And offer a wave to Ichirin or anyone else that comes out of the home to see us off. Assuming they don't stop us, of course.
>It's been a rough few days.
>You put your own arms around Ichirin and simply stay like that for a while, until you feel her let you go.
>You resolve to put on a strong and even cocksure expression, despite the disquiet in your heart. This is how you'd want to be remembered, if...
>Ichirin stares at you piercingly, as though she were trying to commit every inch of this moment to memory. Her eyes are moist with silent tears, but her face is resolute.
>"I'll be praying for you, Nazrin," she says. "Every day."
>You leave the orphanage, unhitch your cart and set out for your journey. There is a long road ahead, and on the other side of it the home you've known for the last years, and maybe, just maybe a cure. Ichirin follows you out to the door and stands vigil there as you fade away into the distance. You wave goodbye to her as you depart, but even as you reach the limits of your own eyesight, find she hasn't moved at all. With a strange loneliness in your heart, you turn your eyes back to the road, and soon enough the village itself is but a distant mark on the horizon. You are alone with the journey and your own thoughts.
-
>Once we put a little more distance between us and Easthaven, pull the horse to a stop for a moment, then lean back, close our eyes, and breathe deep a few times. Please don't let this be the last time we see that place. Maybe Braston is home, maybe our fame and fortune is elsewhere from that, our cure is more than likely, but Easthaven WAS our home. And the people there...
>"Keep them safe."
>Pull yourself together, Naz. Time to be sentimental once we fix ourselves. Give the reins a snap. "Come on, horse, we got miles to eat up."
>Keep an occasional eye for Cirno along the way. She wayliad us once, outside chance she'll be back.
-
>Once we put a little more distance between us and Easthaven, pull the horse to a stop for a moment, then lean back, close our eyes, and breathe deep a few times. Please don't let this be the last time we see that place. Maybe Braston is home, maybe our fame and fortune is elsewhere from that, our cure is more than likely, but Easthaven WAS our home. And the people there...
>"Keep them safe."
>Pull yourself together, Naz. Time to be sentimental once we fix ourselves. Give the reins a snap. "Come on, horse, we got miles to eat up."
>Keep an occasional eye for Cirno along the way. She wayliad us once, outside chance she'll be back.
>You continue onward for a while, then pause, lean back and close your eyes and just breathe in the enormity of all this. It's still so much... the danger facing your sleepy little birthplace and the doom etched in black lines beneath your skin. You offer your hopes up to the air.
>Then you gather yourself together again, give the reins a snap, and continue on your way. The horse gives a sharp nicker and breaks into a brisk trot. The trees scroll gently past as the miles blend together, and through it all, the steady clatter of the horse's hooves.
>You keep an eye out for Cirno as you approach the bridge, but find it once again unoccupied. Wherever she is, it seems she isn't harassing travelers this day.
>The hours pass slowly, despite you feeling certain you're making better time than on your last trip out. Your horse is eager and hearty and covers the road quickly, but the circumstances around this journey color your perception, painting each hour grey and protracted. You pause occasionally to let the horse rest, or have a drink, but you largely keep yourself to the road, and do your best to keep your mind there as well.
>Eventually you start to pass carts traveling in the opposite direction as farmers return from their days at market. It feels like there are fewer of them today than usual, but perhaps it's just a state of mind. The wilderness seems even emptier than usual, your isolation more total. The sound of the wagon's wheels blurs into an endless drone, as constant as the skies above. Soon enough, it is sunset. Despite everything, this manages to be a vivid and golden one, the waning sun shedding its warmth as if it were smiling down upon you. Before dusk has even fully settled upon the sky, you can see the lights and buildings of Braston spread across the distance. It seems a... strangely long time since you've seen them.
-
>Decent time.
>"Good riding, girl."
>Consider taking a moment to enjoy the sunset, then spur our horse on. Sooner we get to Rinno and Mari the better.
>To the guildhall! Post haste!
-
>Decent time.
>"Good riding, girl."
>Consider taking a moment to enjoy the sunset, then spur our horse on. Sooner we get to Rinno and Mari the better.
>To the guildhall! Post haste!
>It's definitely decent time.
>The horse makes a small natter of acknowledgment. She does seem a bit tired out now, though.
>You consider pausing a moment, but decide instead to head directly to the guildhall. Braston is still fairly lively by this time of evening, at the edge of sun and dark, and there are people and fairies moving about in the squares and lights lining the storefronts. It feels good to be back, though you waste no time on sentimentalizing and quickly cover the distance to your destination.
>The square outside the guildhall is relatively quieter, and the guildhall itself is dark in places, though you can see a few lights from within. This would be past its normal operating hours for most public dealings and apprentice duties, but there's usually a few people hanging around the premises and Rinnosuke is almost certainly about.
-
>Excellent. He be the man of the hour, after all.
>Hitch our ride, head on inside, and look about for Rino.
-
>Excellent. He be the man of the hour, after all.
>Hitch our ride, head on inside, and look about for Rino.
>You hitch the horse and head inside. The front desk is empty, as you would expect at this hour, and the area is darkened. The common room is also fairly close to empty, though a man reclining on one of the couches gives you a curt wave as you walk through it towards Rinnosuke's office. It's quieter here than usual for this time of day, though Seekers are a far from predictable bunch - forever off chasing after one thing or another. The wafting scent of tea, warm and vaguely herbal, suggest that at least someone else is around.
>Rinnosuke's door closed when you arrive there, and knocking fails to produce a response. With a shrug, you decide to go investigate the kitchen. Sure enough, you find him inside, pouring himself a mug of that tea you've been smelling. He looks up as you enter and tilts his head subtly toward you.
>"Good evening, Nazrin."
-
>"Evening, boss. Glad to see you still up and about."
>"Mind if I sit down? I got a lot to talk about."
-
>"Evening, boss. Glad to see you still up and about."
>"Mind if I sit down? I got a lot to talk about."
>He simply nods.
>"Of course," he says. "Would you like some tea? It's Hanashibaran Water lily."
-
>"Sure."
>Sit across from him.
>"How much have you heard about what's happening out in Easthaven?"
-
>"Sure."
>Sit across from him.
>"How much have you heard about what's happening out in Easthaven?"
>You take a seat at the table, while Rinnosuke takes a second mug from the cupboard and fills it for you, then places it in front of you. He sits down.
>"Little," he says, then takes a slow sip of tea. "Though am I correct in assuming the job you followed there was more serious than expected?"
-
>"That's... puttin' it kinda mildly."
>"First things first, though. Did you get a messaner with a rubbing from there today?"
-
>"That's... puttin' it kinda mildly."
>"First things first, though. Did you get a messaner with a rubbing from there today?"
>He nods. "I did. I'm afraid I didn't recognize the style of writing."
-
>"Oh son of a bitch!"
>Take a deep breath. Sigh.
>"I'll give you the short version. I met a wild youkai there, she inflicted some kind of disease on me, something that's practically a curse. Pretty much the only reason I'm here now is because a sword with that inscription on it. I was hoping you could tell me where it came from..."
-
>Show him the sword.
>"Writing's on the guard."
-
>"Oh son of a bitch!"
>Take a deep breath. Sigh.
>"I'll give you the short version. I met a wild youkai there, she inflicted some kind of disease on me, something that's practically a curse. Pretty much the only reason I'm here now is because a sword with that inscription on it. I was hoping you could tell me where it came from..."
>Rinnosuke frowns almost imperceptibly as you curse. Then you let out a deep sigh and explain.
>He takes another sip of tea. "I'm not certain I can do that, unfortunately. However, I did show the writing to one of the archaeologists here from the Grand Academy and she seemed rather excited by it. Apparently, it is very similar to some they've unearthed at their dig on the northern islet."
>Show him the sword.
>"Writing's on the guard."
>You show him the sword. He leans towards it and adjusts his glasses, peering intently.
>"Interesting. The workmanship is very fine quality. May I have a closer look?"
-
>Press it closer.
>"I can't let it go. Whatever faith is in this thing's keeping the disease at bay."
-
>Press it closer.
>"I can't let it go. Whatever faith is in this thing's keeping the disease at bay."
>You extend the sword further towards Rinnosuke.
>"I see." His eyes trace up and down the guard, the wrapped blade, and the grip held in your hand.
>"That sword is called Kumokirimaru. It exists to kill spiders, to repel and rebuke them and anything which carries their mark."
-
>"Tell me more. Anything you can think of."
-
>"Tell me more. Anything you can think of."
>"I'm not certain how much more I can," he says. "I do not recognize the writing, nor do I have any knowledge of who created it or when. Being a sword, I would ordinarily assume that it is used simply by cutting things with it, though what you say suggests that isn't wholly the case. I assume the youkai who inflicted this disease on you was a spider?"
-
>"Spider youkai, yeah. Whether she was a spider that became a youkai, like me, or not, I dunno."
>Eye the sword up and down ourselves.
>"Well at least that much confirms one of my suspicions, even if I was hoping for a bit more."
>Pull the sword back and have a sip of tea.
>"Well, what about history? You know a bit of something about everything. Have you ever heard of giant spiders infesting the island before? The youkai mentioned something about a great conflict between spiders like the ones I encountered and humanoids."
-
>"And there's a least one old shrine down in the caves around there."
-
>"Spider youkai, yeah. Whether she was a spider that became a youkai, like me, or not, I dunno."
>Eye the sword up and down ourselves.
>"Well at least that much confirms one of my suspicions, even if I was hoping for a bit more."
>Pull the sword back and have a sip of tea.
>"Well, what about history? You know a bit of something about everything. Have you ever heard of giant spiders infesting the island before? The youkai mentioned something about a great conflict between spiders like the ones I encountered and humanoids."
>He nods.
>You stare at the sword for a moment. Unfortunately, it does not offer up any new secrets to your gaze.
>"My apologies," he says, then takes another sip of tea.
>You take the sword back and sample your tea as well. It has a somewhat unusual and subtle flavor, almost a bit thin for your taste, but it isn't too bad.
>"Interesting." He sits silently for a few moments, a suggestion of a thoughtful frown on his face. "Certainly not since Braston was founded; conflicts that can be described as 'great' simply do not happen without being noticed. For that matter, I am not distinctly aware of any encounters with giant spiders near here, though isolated incidents could well be overlooked or forgotten."
>"And there's a least one old shrine down in the caves around there."
>He raises an eyebrow slightly. "Even more interesting. Was there any writing there which matched the inscription on the guard? Did you perhaps retrieve any articles from it?"
-
>"I wasn't able to get very close to it, just within distance of being able to see the gate. That spider made sure of that."
-
>"I wasn't able to get very close to it, just within distance of being able to see the gate. That spider made sure of that."
>"Unfortunate." He takes another sip of tea. "Nonetheless, it is a significant discovery. There has been occasional evidence of previous habitation in the Outer Freelands, though rarely more than suggestions. As I understand it, this is one of the reasons the recent dig has been considered so significant, though I believe work on it is still preliminary. I'm sure they would be very interested in hearing about this. Sadly, I expect none of this does much to address your present concerns."
-
>"You said no record of a war with spiders here. Do you know of it happening anywhere in the world?"
-
>"You said no record of a war with spiders here. Do you know of it happening anywhere in the world?"
>"Hmmm... I do not believe so, though I must admit I am no scholar of history. Certainly, spider youkai themselves are not unknown, even if rare. I once met one in what is now the Wild Lands." He pauses a moment. "She wasn't very personable."
-
>"Another one? Hmm...maybe it could even be the same one?"
>What exactly did the one we fought look like?
-
>"Another one? Hmm...maybe it could even be the same one?"
>What exactly did the one we fought look like?
>"I rather suspect not," he says. "The Wild Lands are a considerable distance away, but I suppose it is possible."
>She was fairly short, being not a great dealer taller than yourself, and blond-haired, with a brown bow in her hair. She wore a rather poofy brown dress with black sleeves and yellow banding around the lower portion.
-
>Describe the one we saw to him.
-
>Describe the one we saw to him.
>Rinnosuke shakes his head. "That description does not resemble her at all."
-
>"So then they're not the same one. I suppose that's somewhat useful....Even though I'm not sure how."
-
>"So then they're not the same one. I suppose that's somewhat useful....Even though I'm not sure how."
>"I don't know if she would be privy to this war of which you speak, though I wouldn't consider her the most reliable source of information, were it even possible to find her. Are you hoping this war holds some clue to your affliction?"
-
>"I'm hoping for any clue I can get at this point, to be honest. On that note, what do you know about a plague that turns one's veins black. Like this?"
>Show him the ones on our arm.
-
>"I'm hoping for any clue I can get at this point, to be honest. On that note, what do you know about a plague that turns one's veins black. Like this?"
>Show him the ones on our arm.
>You show Rinnosuke the blighted mark on your arm. This elicits a less subdued frown from him, and he stares at it closely. It is just your imagination playing tricks on you or is it... slightly larger than it was this morning? No, perhaps not...
>"Nothing at all, I'm afraid," he says. "This conversation is making me feel rather less knowledgeable than I like to consider myself. Shall I assume you've already spoken to the usual experts on this subject if you're consulting me?"
-
>"Everyone in Easthaven that might've known anything. I just made it back to Braston; you're my first stop before I see Marisa."
>What's the Wild Lands?
-
>"Everyone in Easthaven that might've known anything. I just made it back to Braston; you're my first stop before I see Marisa."
>"I don't mean to discourage you, but I rather doubt this is within her expertise, either. Marisa is very good at what she does, but she is not of an academic inclination. Though I suppose it cannot hurt to try."
>He takes another sip of tea and then gives you an odd look. "Do you believe you are contagious?"
>What's the Wild Lands?
>The Wild Lands is a large and only loosely defined expanse to the west of Hanashibara, extending all the way to the Dragon's Spine mountains. It is so called because of the numerous barbaric and even feral youkai who live there. In the distant past, there were supposedly great cities in that part of the world, but their presence is long lost to time, and while you believe there have been several attempts to settle it since, none managed to gain civilization any enduring foothold. Moreover, around half a century ago, a great horde of youkai and other magical creatures surged forth from it and fell upon the neighboring lands. You aren't familiar with the details of the ensuing war, but you understand it was a very heated thing for a while, although the invasion was ultimately driven back and scattered.
>Things have been quieter since, but it is still considered one of the most dangerous parts of the world to travel through, and a significant reason that trade with the Far West is so limited. Conversely, the ruins of lost civilization to be found there offer the promise of riches and buried heirlooms to any Seeker confident enough to search for them. There are no shortage of rumors about the place, and it's often difficult to discern fact from fiction.
-
>"Contagious, no. Minoriko didn't think so, and she'd know."
>Is it time for our medicine yet?
>"She's the one that determined it was the sword that was keeping the disease at bay, and derived a medicine for me to keep me on my feet."
>"But Rinnosuke, it's only temporary. Near as Minoriko can figure, I've got a bit south of two weeks to find a cure. If I can't, I won't make it to the third."
>"Minoriko and Ichirin brought a healer down from here, but do you know anyone here in town that'd be an expert in exotic diseases? Or curses? Or ancient religions, for that matter?"
-
>"Contagious, no. Minoriko didn't think so, and she'd know."
>Is it time for our medicine yet?
>"She's the one that determined it was the sword that was keeping the disease at bay, and derived a medicine for me to keep me on my feet."
>"But Rinnosuke, it's only temporary. Near as Minoriko can figure, I've got a bit south of two weeks to find a cure. If I can't, I won't make it to the third."
>"Minoriko and Ichirin brought a healer down from here, but do you know anyone here in town that'd be an expert in exotic diseases? Or curses? Or ancient religions, for that matter?"
>He nods.
>Minoriko said to take two capfuls each morning and night. You're not rightly sure what time of the night or morning it was when Ichirin woke you for your last dose, though it isn't particularly late in the night just yet.
>"I... see." He pauses, frowning. "This is rather more serious than I would have expected from looking at you."
>"There are several who know at least a little of such things," he says, "Though I'm growing to suspect this may be more esoteric than their knowledge. Still, I can send out inquiries on your behalf."
-
>"Best to cover all your bases in this field, yeah."
>"Though the plague isn't what I wanted to talk to Marisa about. ... She IS still in town, right?"
>Oh, god, if she isn't....
-
>"Best to cover all your bases in this field, yeah."
>"Though the plague isn't what I wanted to talk to Marisa about. ... She IS still in town, right?"
>Oh, god, if she isn't....
>Rinnosuke nods.
>"The last I heard, at any rate," he says.
>Well, that isn't a no, at least.
-
>"Well, that's a relief."
>In expectation of his question, "The spiders haven't really been dealt with fully. Or at all. Neither has the youkai, and that's what I wanted to ask Marisa about. She's got a few more tools than I do for handling large number of things."
>Do we know where she lives?
>"You mentioned an archaeologist from the... Grand academy, was it? Is she here in town tonight?"
>What IS the grand academy?
-
>"Well, that's a relief."
>In expectation of his question, "The spiders haven't really been dealt with fully. Or at all. Neither has the youkai, and that's what I wanted to ask Marisa about. She's got a few more tools than I do for handling large number of things."
>Do we know where she lives?
>"Ah, I see." He takes another sip of tea. "I should give you fair warning that she claims to be taking a break from work for a while, though knowing her, I'm not sure how seriously this can be taken."
>You do. She has a small place north of Eastmarket, perpetually in a state of clutter and disorder.
>"You mentioned an archaeologist from the... Grand academy, was it? Is she here in town tonight?"
>What IS the grand academy?
>"She may have gone back to the dig site," he says. "I'm not certain. They've largely set up camp on the islet, but a few came back to pick up more supplies. Some might still be here."
>The Grand Academy of Val Razua is the largest and most distinguished institution of higher learning in Gensokyo, famous especially for its focus in the magical arts, in which it is considered virtually without peer, but also highly regarded in all manner of more mundane disciplines. It is no small part of why Val Razua itself is considered a hub of learning and culture.
-
>"Don't suppose you'd have any idea where that 'in town' might be, would you?"
>"And those people you mentioned earlier, the ones that might have a bit more info on this sword, diseases, history behind the sword. Any of them live here in town? And would still be awake and open to visitors? I may want to see Marisa soon as well, but I want to cover as much ground as I can tonight."
>Don't really need to say time's a bit of a factor here, do we now.
-
>"Don't suppose you'd have any idea where that 'in town' might be, would you?"
>"And those people you mentioned earlier, the ones that might have a bit more info on this sword, diseases, history behind the sword. Any of them live here in town? And would still be awake and open to visitors? I may want to see Marisa soon as well, but I want to cover as much ground as I can tonight."
>Don't really need to say time's a bit of a factor here, do we now.
>"I believe their party lodged at the Brass Lantern when they first arrived," he says. "They may still be using this as a base of operations within the city."
>"You did ask specifically for those within town, so the answer to your first question would be yes. I imagine most of the city is still awake at this hour, though many of those whose maintain public offices would be closed for the day. Several are simply acquaintances." He pauses for a moment. "The temples and shrines might be one place to inquire about either curses or old religions, though I don't believe either of them are maintained by especially learned caretakers. Still, religious records sometimes contain things which secular ones do not. I can provide you a list of names and home addresses for the healers within town, if you wish. I am fairly certain you will not find anyone living here who can read that script, however. If the Grand Academy's archeologists are only passingly familiar with it, it is certainly beyond the knowledge of a more casual scholar."
>He gives you a faint smile. "I understand your desire for haste. I will try to contact those I can."
>You think you have already made that clear enough.
-
>"A list would be appreciated, yes. I'll gladly take a start for after I see Marisa."
>We know the locations of those temples in town, right? And the Brass Lantern as well? Ask Rino in the event we do not.
-
Don't forget we have Ellen in our pocket!
-
>"A list would be appreciated, yes. I'll gladly take a start for after I see Marisa."
>We know the locations of those temples in town, right? And the Brass Lantern as well? Ask Rino in the event we do not.
>"Very well," he says, producing a small pad of paper and a pencil from the pouch at his front. He starts to write on it.
>The Brass Lantern is near to the harbor, and you think you know more or less where the various religious buildings within town are located.
-
>What's the harbor district like after dark in Braston?
>Well, we wouldn't want to be ALL doom and gloom...
>"Outta curiousity, boss. That little fairy Honey stick around with Marisa?"
-
>What's the harbor district like after dark in Braston?
>Well, we wouldn't want to be ALL doom and gloom...
>"Outta curiousity, boss. That little fairy Honey stick around with Marisa?"
>Certain parts of it will be shut down for the day, though ships obviously continue to arrive regardless of the hour. Given that a significant chunk of the dock's labor force is oni, there are taverns to be found there, and those will certainly be lively into the late hours. Some parts of it can be seedier than others, but The Brass Lantern itself is a reputable establishment just far enough off the main drag to be peaceable, without being so far off as to be shady.
>You'll take a bright spot if you can find one today...
>"I haven't seen her myself for several days now, but I do believe they've been spotted together since then."
-
>Nod.
>"Good, then. Glad to see she's learned at least not to stand in front of Mari."
>Sit back and sip our tea while he writes that list.
>"Anything like this ever happen to you, boss?"
-
>Nod.
>"Good, then. Glad to see she's learned at least not to stand in front of Mari."
>Sit back and sip our tea while he writes that list.
>"Anything like this ever happen to you, boss?"
>"I can't vouch for that, unfortunately," he says.
>You lean back and drink some more of your tea. Honestly, half of what this is doing is simply reminding you that you could use a proper meal.
>"Managing the daily affairs of the guild is not a very hazardous occupation, fortunately," he says, scribing a last sentence on the notepad. Then he neatly tears off the top sheet and slides it across the table towards you.
-
>Mission for Mari first. Then food.
>Take the scrap and pocket it. "Thanks."
>"But I mean back in the day. You've been around, done your share."
>Lean forward slightly. "And when you said 'what is NOW the Wild Lands.' That mean you were there before they were that Wild?"
-
>Mission for Mari first. Then food.
>Take the scrap and pocket it. "Thanks."
>"But I mean back in the day. You've been around, done your share."
>Lean forward slightly. "And when you said 'what is NOW the Wild Lands.' That mean you were there before they were that Wild?"
>That sounds like a plan.
>Rinnosuke nods as you pocket the list.
>"I'm certainly not that old," he says, with a just trace of chagrin. "The Wild Lands have existed for a very long time. It's simply that the borders have changed somewhat over the past century. And you would do well not to believe everything people whisper about me," he adds in a neutral tone.
-
>Throw our hands up in mock horror.
>"Sorry, sorry..." Lower our hands and chuckle.
>"But seriously though, boss, what's it like? Having the kinda rep that you do."
-
>Throw our hands up in mock horror.
>"Sorry, sorry..." Lower our hands and chuckle.
>"But seriously though, boss, what's it like? Having the kinda rep that you do."
>"One grows accustomed," he says, taking another sip of tea.
-
>Chuckle. "Reckon so."
>Slug the rest of our own tea, then stand. "Thanks for the head start, but I really should see Marisa before it gets too much later. Time's a factor for more'n just me."
-
>Chuckle. "Reckon so."
>Slug the rest of our own tea, then stand. "Thanks for the head start, but I really should see Marisa before it gets too much later. Time's a factor for more'n just me."
>You quickly finish the rest of your tea and stand up.
>Rinnosuke nods. "Of course. Though before you leave, I should mention that someone was here inquiring about you the other day."
-
>"If they wanted to hire me, I'm gonna be tied up for a bit."
-
>"If they wanted to hire me, I'm gonna be tied up for a bit."
>"She didn't say whether she had a proposition for you or not, simply that she was interested in speaking with you. Of course, I understand the pressures on your time at this moment. I am simply delivering a message."
-
>"Who was it, by the way?"
-
>"Who was it, by the way?"
>"Yuugi Hoshiguma."
-
>When an oni wants you, that can be interesting. One way or the other...
>Do we know where to find her?
>"Folks in high places... That all she said, just 'interested in speaking to me'? No mention of what it was about?"
-
>When an oni wants you, that can be interesting. One way or the other...
>Do we know where to find her?
>"Folks in high places... That all she said, just 'interested in speaking to me'? No mention of what it was about?"
>Some of those kinds of interesting are more pleasant than others...
>You don't know where she lives precisely, but you know where the Miner's Guild headquarters is located. If she isn't there, you imagine someone there would know where she could be found.
>"Correct," he says, taking another sip of tea. "Though I could speculate, if you wish."
-
>"By all means."
-
>"By all means."
>"Very well." He folds his hands together. "I understand you were involved in an altercation with an oni several days back, outside a restaurant south of the warehouse district. In fact, as I hear it, you may have played a significant role in preventing a man from being seriously injured by this oni. Miss Hoshiguma has made no secret of her opinion on such assaults: they are simply not tolerated, outside of specific circumstances. I believe she has likely taken a personal interest in your role in this incident."
-
>Heh. Maybe she wants to give us a pat on the back.
>"Well, all right. I'll have to drop by her pad. After I get a bit more business done first, of course."
>"Don't suppose you'd heard anything more about that guy though, have you? Or if Yuugi's made the same offer to Orange, as well?"
-
>Heh. Maybe she wants to give us a pat on the back.
>"Well, all right. I'll have to drop by her pad. After I get a bit more business done first, of course."
>"Don't suppose you'd heard anything more about that guy though, have you? Or if Yuugi's made the same offer to Orange, as well?"
>Wouldn't that be something?
>He nods. "Of course."
>"I've heard little more on the matter."
-
>"Had to check."
>"Thanks again, boss."
>Assuming he doesn't present us with anything else, depart.
>We can just walk, right? No need to take the horse, unless there's a stable along the way.
-
>"Had to check."
>"Thanks again, boss."
>Assuming he doesn't present us with anything else, depart.
>We can just walk, right? No need to take the horse, unless there's a stable along the way.
>He gives you a little smile. "May our mutual inquiries meet with success."
>Rinnosuke makes no attempt to halt your exit, and you make your way out of the guildhall.
>Marisa's home is certainly within walking distance, though it is also vaguely in the direction of a stable as well.
-
>Can we leave the horse here until we're done with Marisa, or does the stable have an hours of operation that we know of?
-
>Can we leave the horse here until we're done with Marisa, or does the stable have an hours of operation that we know of?
>You believe that at least one of them is open all night long.
-
>To the Kirisame pad, then.
>Have we ever stayed there before? Or observed any of Mari's 'conquests' coming or going?
-
>To the Kirisame pad, then.
>Have we ever stayed there before? Or observed any of Mari's 'conquests' coming or going?
>You set off towards Marisa's.
>You have not, and frankly you think it would be a little uncomfortable given how cluttered and up in heaps the place often is. Despite Marisa's reputation, you've never seen any 'conquests' at her place, though it wouldn't surprise you if she favored keeping such things to other people's dwellings.
>It is a moderately long walk to your destination, but it's a pleasant night and the gentle bustle of Braston in the evening is a comforting change from the stillness of Easthaven. Fairies frolic and dash across rooftops, while humans and youkai converse and barter and the smells of a dozen cooked meals drift towards your nose. You really are pretty hungry...
>Soon enough, you leave the markets behind and arrive at Marisa's door. There is a light on inside.
-
>Assuming we can't hear the sounds of 'conquering', knock.
>Correction. If we CAN hear the sounds of 'conquering', kick the door down and join.
-
>Assuming we can't hear the sounds of 'conquering', knock.
>The place seems quiet at the moment, so you knock on the door.
>"There's no one home!" comes the immediate reply. It's a little... higher pitched than Marisa's voice.
>Correction. If we CAN hear the sounds of 'conquering', kick the door down and join.
>So much for that. You could probably use a little fun in your current state of mind...
-
>"Honey? That you?"
-
>"Honey? That you?"
>"Yes! I mean no! I mean-" There is a pause. "No one's home!"
-
>Chuckle despite ourselves. Still a fairy.
>"Honey, it's me. Nazrin."
-
>Chuckle despite ourselves. Still a fairy.
>"Honey, it's me. Nazrin."
>No mistaking her for anything else.
>"Oh!" There is a distinct note of excited recognition in her voice. "Hi! I'm on guard duty!"
-
>"And you're doing a mighty fine job."
>Humoring her might be more productive.
>"I need to talk to Marisa, can I come in?"
>Can we tell if the door is even locked?
-
>"And you're doing a mighty fine job."
>Humoring her might be more productive.
>"I need to talk to Marisa, can I come in?"
>Can we tell if the door is even locked?
>"Yay!" comes a familiar cheer, muffled a little by the interposing door.
>It might indeed.
>"Marisa's gone with- I mean, Marisa's-" She pauses a beat. "There's no one home! ...this is hard," you hear her mutter quietly.
>Not without trying the handle, at least.
-
>Cute is cute, but time's an issue here.
>"Honey, please. This is important. Is Marisa here?"
-
>Cute is cute, but time's an issue here.
>"Honey, please. This is important. Is Marisa here?"
>"Important?" Her voice sounds uncertain. "But Marisa said this was important..."
-
>I'll bet she did.
>"Can you tell me what this is?"
>Are there any windows open?
>Do we recognize which room that light's coming from?
-
>I'll bet she did.
>"Can you tell me what this is?"
>Are there any windows open?
>Do we recognize which room that light's coming from?
>Probably seemed a good way to convince her of something.
>"Guard duty!" she replies. "Sidekicks need to be able to, um..." She trails off; you can hear her sounding out words under her breath. "...pin down the fort, yeah that's it! Sidekicks need to be able to pin down the fort while the hero goes on important missions." Her words carry an air of confident authority... or at least as best she can manage to imitate such a thing.
>Not that you can see.
>It appears to be coming from the rooms at the front of the house.
-
>"So Marisa's not here? I really need to talk to her."
-
>"Besides, I'm a mouse, it's okay if I come in."
-
>"So Marisa's not here? I really need to talk to her."
>"I didn't say she wasn't here!" Honey hastily asserts. "...did I?"
>"Besides, I'm a mouse, it's okay if I come in."
>"It... is? W- why is that?" she asks tentatively.
-
Clever approach, Purvis. Carry on, you'll probably have more success with that approach than I would.
-
>"Mice always come and go. We even have our own special doors. But since I'm Marisa's friend, it's okay for me to use this one."
-
>"Mice always come and go. We even have our own special doors. But since I'm Marisa's friend, it's okay for me to use this one."
>"Really?" Her tone is a mixture of awed curiosity and uncertainty. "But Marisa said not to let anyone in until she came back from- I mean, uh, nothing!" she adds sharply. "...oh dear."
-
>"That's okay. I didn't hear anything. So, what's she coming back from?"
-
>"That's okay. I didn't hear anything. So, what's she coming back from?"
>"Something really important," she says. "Something so important that she needed me to stay here and stand guard for her! ...am I doing ok?"
-
>"Let me in so I can get a better look."
-
>"Let me in so I can get a better look."
>"But she said not to let anyone in..." Honey says in a plaintive voice.
-
Feel free to roll your own, Purvis, if you think this won't work.
>"I understand. But if you tell me where she is, then I might find her myself, and tell her what a good job you're doing."
>"Or, at least, when she'll be back."
-
>"I understand. But if you tell me where she is, then I might find her myself, and tell her what a good job you're doing."
>"Or, at least, when she'll be back."
>"Oh!" Honey replies enthusiastically. "She, um.... she... um...." Her voice trails off despondently. "She didn't say..."
>"...she didn't say that, either..."
-
Fuck.
>"I see..."
-
Time to pay a visit to the Oni then?
I have a sneaking suspicion that Marisa might just be there.
-
Man, I sure hope so.
Either that or with those archaeologists in town. If memory serves, she said she did a job for them up north back in thread one.
-
>"I see..."
>"Oh... am I being a bad sidekick?" Honey says fretfully. "Sidekicks are supposed to know where their heroes are, aren't they? What if she needs my help? But... she told me I needed to stay here. Oh dear..."
-
>What do we know of Marisa's usual routine? In particular, places she'd want to go without a faerie hassling her.
I suggest we try to check out that light; I could see Marisa sneaking in the back door to get some peace. If that fails us, probably Yuugi-times.
-
Not a bad idea. Honey may be lovable, but she's still very much a fairy. Mari might simply have needed to take 5.
Gonna be at work for the next few hours. Hope y'all manage to track her down, wherever she might be.
-
>What do we know of Marisa's usual routine? In particular, places she'd want to go without a faerie hassling her.
>Marisa could be fairly unpredictable, hopping from one job to the next at high speed and with little warning, though it wasn't uncommon to see her hanging about the guildhall during downtime. She also had a penchant for burying herself personal projects, either disappearing for long stretches or barricading herself inside her home until she'd satisfied whatever curiosity she was working on, or at least gotten bored with it. You think there was also an open-air cafe here that she tended to frequent, but outside of that, you actually aren't all that acquainted with her routine or whether she even really keeps one; your interaction was largely on business matters.
-
>"Hey Honey, why is that light on in the other room, if you're watching the door?"
-
>"Hey Honey, why is that light on in the other room, if you're watching the door?"
>"Because it would be dark here if it wasn't," she replies.
-
>"That's a fire hazard, you know. You should go blow it out so no accidents happen."
-
>"That's a fire hazard, you know. You should go blow it out so no accidents happen."
>"B- But then I wouldn't be able to see," she says, "and I could trip up and hurt myself..."
-
>"Well, if you're using it, I guess that means things are a bit different. I thought it was in another room."
-
>"Well, if you're using it, I guess that means things are a bit different. I thought it was in another room."
>"Well, there's a light in the kitchen, too, in case I get hungry," she says. "I wouldn't want to bump into a chair whenever I wanted a muffin, nope. This house is mean when it's dark." She pauses. "Do you want a muffin?"
-
>"...Yes. Yes I do."
-
>"...Yes. Yes I do."
>"Okay!" she chimes. You hear her flit off in what you assume is the direction of the kitchen, followed shortly thereafter by a small note of exertion and then a sharp metallic crash. Honey squawks.
-
>Open the door and peek inside.
>"Are you alright?"
-
>Open the door and peek inside.
>"Are you alright?"
>You attempt to open the door, but discover that it is, in fact, locked.
>"I'm okay!" she calls out, then yelps as a series of dull clattering noises ring out from the kitchen. "I've got the muffin!"
>You hear her approach the door again, then pause and let out the vocal equivalent of a frown. "...how are you supposed to get your muffin, now?"
-
>"Unlock the door so I can open it, and you hand it to me."
-
>"Unlock the door so I can open it, and you hand it to me."
>"Hmmm... I suppose that opening the door isn't the same as letting anyone in.... Okay!"
>You hear a click of a latch from inside.
-
>Open the door.
-
>Open the door.
>You open the door.
>Hovering in the doorway and bearing a somewhat lopsided muffin is Honey. She... seems to be wearing a distinctive floppy conical hat, made of black cloth and tied with a blue ribbon to match the rest of her outfit.
>She flits over to you and holds the muffin out. "Here you go!" she says, then frowns. "It's a little squashed... But still tasty!" she adds hastily.
-
>Take the muffin. Is it dirty or some such?
>If not, devour!
-
>Take the muffin. Is it dirty or some such?
>If not, devour!
>You take the muffin. It looks perfectly clean, simply a bit squashed on one side as though something heavy had been resting on it.
>You waste no time on digging into it. Mmm... blueberry. It's perhaps a touch on the dry side, but still pretty good and you've certainly no shortage of appetite to go with it.
>Honey leans towards you, a vaguely anticipatory look on her face. "Is it good?"
-
>"Very good!"
>Polish that thing off.
-
>"Very good!"
>Polish that thing off.
>"Yay!" she cheers. "I baked them myself. Marisa's kitchen is really dangerous..."
>You happily finish off the rest of the muffin. It was well-appreciated by your appetite, though hardly enough to satisfy it outright.
-
>"Nice hat."
-
>"Nice hat."
>Honey's face lights up. "I know, isn't it awesome? Marisa gave it to me. She said that if I was going to be her sidekick, I had to 'look the part'."
-
>"Well, she's right about that."
>"When did you learn to make muffins?"
-
>"Well, she's right about that."
>"When did you learn to make muffins?"
>"Yay!"
>Honey puts a finger to her chin and frowns thoughtfully. "Don't remember," she says eventually.
-
>"Don't suppose I could have another one? Haven't eaten much today."
>Can we hear any sign of Marisa in there?
-
>"Don't suppose I could have another one? Haven't eaten much today."
>Can we hear any sign of Marisa in there?
>"Sure!" she says, turning and darting off towards the kitchen.
>You haven't heard anything that would suggest this.
-
>Stepping inside'd probably break her little heart. Better wait till she gets back.
-
>Stepping inside'd probably break her little heart. Better wait till she gets back.
>It just might at that. You decide to stay put and a few moments later, the fairy returns with another muffin, equally squashed. At least this kitchen excursion does not seem to have triggered another cacophony.
>"Here you are!" she says, extending the muffin towards you.
-
>"Thanks."
>Take a bite.
>"How've things been since I've been away?"
-
>Is the light we saw in the window the one that is in here?
-
>"Thanks."
>Take a bite.
>"How've things been since I've been away?"
>"You're welcome!" she says cheerfully.
>You take a bite. Ah, food.... You are a good thing when hungry.
>"I've been working really hard!" she says. "Cooking and washing and doing all kinds of sidekick stuff. And Marisa's been teaching me other stuff, too. She has so many amazing stories!" Honey's eyes practically sparkle. "Did you know that she once beat up a whole legion of demons by herself, all so that she could save a princess from sleeping forever and ever? I wanna see something like that myself someday... and help out! Marisa even said I was getting better; that's why she could trust me with such an important mission like this." She nods a couple times in affirmation.
>Is the light we saw in the window the one that is in here?
>You're fairly certain it's coming from the kitchen, in addition to the light in the room before you.
-
>How confidant are we that's just Mari stringin' a whizzer on the kid?
>"Marisa's got the right stuff, and she knows talent when she sees it. She doesn't give those hats to just anybody, after all."
-
>"And, she didn't tell you the important part of that story. That princess? It was me."
-
>How confidant are we that's just Mari stringin' a whizzer on the kid?
>"Marisa's got the right stuff, and she knows talent when she sees it. She doesn't give those hats to just anybody, after all."
>You're fairly certain that if there was much truth to that story, you'd already be aware of it. For one thing, demons aren't really something one can find legions of these days...
>Honey beams a little, and adjusts her hat.
>"And, she didn't tell you the important part of that story. That princess? It was me."
>"Really?!" Honey gasps. "You two are married?"
-
>"It didn't work out."
-
>"Not that I'd mind trying again..."
-
>"It didn't work out."
>Honey frowns, then floats over and gently pats you on the shoulder. "I'm sorry."
>"Not that I'd mind trying again..."
>"What happened?" she asks.
-
>"We're two different people, you know? She's a witch who flies everywhere and blows things up, I'm a mouse. It just wasn't meant to be this time."
>Sigh.
>"So, she's really not here? Can you get me some paper and a pen, so I can leave a message?"
-
>"We're two different people, you know? She's a witch who flies everywhere and blows things up, I'm a mouse. It just wasn't meant to be this time."
>Sigh.
>"So, she's really not here? Can you get me some paper and a pen, so I can leave a message?"
>"Awww..." Honey leans and gives your arm a hug.
>You sigh. Honey squeezes tighter.
>"Oh... you want to tell her you still love her..." she says, nestling her face into your arm. You almost wonder if she's about to start sobbing.
-
>"Not quite. Just I needed to meet her, it's extremely important"
-
>"Once we get the emergency settled, then we can discuss... other things."
-
>"Not quite. Just I needed to meet her, it's extremely important"
>"Don't worry, it's ok," she says softly, giving you another squeeze and then disengaging.
>"Once we get the emergency settled, then we can discuss... other things."
>Honey giggles, then darts off into the house. You hear the sound of objects being brushed aside and Honey struggling with something or other. You brace yourself for another crash, but it seems she's managed to escape without catastrophe for a second time in a row. She reappears with a sheet of paper in one hand and a voluminous quill pen resting in a black inkwell in the other. She offers them to you.
-
>"Thank you."
>Find a place to write, make sure Honey isn't trying to read over our shoulder, and write down: "Marisa, need to see you as soon as possible; lives on the line in Easthaven. I've been cursed/diseased; have days to live. Will be back. -Nazrin."
-
>"Thank you."
>Find a place to write, make sure Honey isn't trying to read over our shoulder, and write down: "Marisa, need to see you as soon as possible; lives on the line in Easthaven. I've been cursed/diseased; have days to live. Will be back. -Nazrin."
>"Sure thing!" she replies.
>You move off a little and find a spot to place the inkwell and prop up the paper. You glance back in Honey's direction; she seems to be keeping dutiful watch on the entryway in case anyone should suddenly try to make a break for Marisa's interior. Satisfied that she can't see what you're writing, you pen the note to Marisa.
-
>Do we think we can trust Honey enough to put that note in Marisa's hands the minute she gets back?
-
>Do we think we can trust Honey enough to put that note in Marisa's hands the minute she gets back?
>On the one hand, she does seem very eager to be dutiful. On the other... she is also a fairy. You expect that it would be difficult to keep her from eventually reading it, in either case.
-
>Assuming she does read it, what do we think her reaction would probably be?
-
>Assuming she does read it, what do we think her reaction would probably be?
>Well, what do you think?
-
>"Honey, has Marisa taught you how to read?"
-
>"Honey, has Marisa taught you how to read?"
>"Hey!" she cries, sounding a little offended. "I can read just fine!"
-
>"Sorry. Most of the faeries I know never got the knack for it. How do you spell your name?"
-
>"Sorry. Most of the faeries I know never got the knack for it. How do you spell your name?"
>"H-o-n-e-y-s-u-" She frowns a little and starts to speak more slowly. "-k-l-d..." Her grimace deepens. "u-d-r-o.... p!"
-
I so missed this fairy.
>That ain't bad. And oh so cute! *massive glomp*
>"Well done." Best not try to as her to spell Exestentialism, she might go pop.
>"Okay, if Marisa comes home before I see her, it is really important you give this to her the minute you see her. And make absolutely sure she reads it. Okay?"
-
>That ain't bad. And oh so cute! *massive glomp*
>"Well done." Best not try to as her to spell Exestentialism, she might go pop.
>"Okay, if Marisa comes home before I see her, it is really important you give this to her the minute you see her. And make absolutely sure she reads it. Okay?"
>Certainly could have been worse.
>"Yay!" You decide not to set her a harder challenge, though it would be interesting philosophical conundrum if thinking deeply about one's existence were to end it.
>She nods gravely. "I'll do it!"
-
>Hand her the note. And hope for the best.
>You were right, Ichirin. You were right about her.
>"It's good to see you again, Honey."
-
>Hand her the note. And hope for the best.
>You were right, Ichirin. You were right about her.
>"It's good to see you again, Honey."
>You hand Honey the note and hope for the best. She accepts it and nods dutifully.
>"I'm gonna be a super great sidekick some day," she says. "Just you watch!"
-
>"I know you will, Honey."
>You've got all the time in the world to do it, to...
>"Well, if Marisa's not here, then I should go. Still have other people to see now that I'm back in town."
So, Yuugi first, then the arch? I personally think we should go the other way round, given that the archaeologists may point us in the direction of a cure, and I'm not sure Yuugi can. Then again, I could be wrong that front. And of course, it's probably not the best idea to keep an oni waiting too long, either.
-
I think Yuugi could be helpful. Let's try to catch her before bedtime. Or rather, when she's too drunk to be standing.
-
>"I know you will, Honey."
>You've got all the time in the world to do it, to...
>"Well, if Marisa's not here, then I should go. Still have other people to see now that I'm back in town."
>"Yay! People have faith in me!"
>Certainly she isn't putting her life on the line by being a bad one...
>Honey nods. "I'll make sure she reads your message right away!"
-
Hanzo suggested Yuugi first as well, so we'll try that and see what happens.
>Contemplate giving her a pat on the head, but she's probably protective of her hat, so simply smile at her. "I'm counting on ya, kid."
>Off to Yuugi's. Follow the booze trails.
-
>Contemplate giving her a pat on the head, but she's probably protective of her hat, so simply smile at her. "I'm counting on ya, kid."
>Off to Yuugi's. Follow the booze trails.
>Honey gives you another little cheer.
>You head northwest, towards the mining and industrial districts and what is colloquially considered oni territory. Honey waves to you as you leave, before heading back inside and locking the door again.
>The scents and sounds of the north end make themselves known to you long before you actually enter it properly. Sooty, unpleasant smells of smelting and refining drift upon the air, tinged with the sharp odor of molten metal. You can already hear boisterous carousing that will doubtlessly continue through the night without pause. Given the inhabitants of the district, it's nearly as easy to find an alehouse as a factory; such establishments seem to find a way of popping up in whatever cracks and alleyways are left between the industrial infrastructure that gives Braston its relevance on the world stage. Consequently, it's rather hard to get anywhere in the evening without passing by gatherings of drunken and often rowdy oni.
>The flow of traffic thins and takes on a distinctly different composition as you progress further north, humans going from ubiquitous to scarce. While humans and other youkai do work in these industries as well, much of it is dominated by the oni, whose aptitude for physical labor lets them excel at it. Moreover, what human workforce there is tends to keep to standard daylight shifts and leave the night to the oni entirely. There may be strictures against oni bringing their brawls to the rest of the city, but that's small comfort to anyone who lets themselves get caught in one while up here. You keep a brisk pace and a low profile and manage to make it to the Miner's Guild headquarters without being drawn into anything you'd rather not.
>The guild headquarters is a squat ugly building, but an expansive one; mining is the lifeblood of Braston, after all. Workshops and other such buildings press closely against it on nearly all sides and the smell of industry hangs heavy in the air. You wrinkle your nose a little. Just two buildings down the road, a small gang of mildly inebriated oni lounge around the open door of an establishment; warm light and loud conversation stream forth from it. The large double doors of the guild also stand open, and you can see oni moving about within.
-
May as well go on in eh?
>Enter through the doors, making sure to hit both as we go in.
>Find the nearest Oni, and let 'em have it...verbally. We've got a Big Boss to find, and time's of the essence!
>"So, the big cheese wanted to see me? Well, I'm here, where's she?"
That is, unless you guys got a better plan.
I'm going off the fact that we've not got much longer, so we're bound to be a bit brasher than normal.
Since if we're gonna go out, we may as well leave one heck of a lasting impression hm?
-
>Just walk in for now and take stock of the place.
-
But let's keep Hanzo's style in mind. It seems very ONI. :)
-
That's what I was goin' for. See, my thinkin' is that they'll be more likely to listen if we're a bit more oni-like in our approach to things.
-
>Just walk in for now and take stock of the place.
>You walk inside and look around. The doors enter onto a relatively large open area, its strictly functional stone walls hung with enough lanterns to give the place a dull ruddy glow. A pair of corridors extends off along the left wall, while another set of double doors is visible on the far side of the entry area, these ones closed. There are a few oni coming and going - one rounds the near corridor bruskly enough to almost collide with you though you manage to nimbly sidestep. There is a c-shaped wooden counter built across an alcove in this same wall. An auburn-haired oni with a pair of short horns and a sharp grin stands behind it, or rather slumps, leaning one elbow on the counter and facing towards a second, taller oni is leaning against the wall just outside the counter. They seems to be chatting. Then the pair of them burst into raucous laughter and the shorter one reaches for a clay sake jug on the counter and chugs a great gulp of it.
-
>Would we recognize Yuugi if we saw her? And if so, are either of those two her?
-
>Would we recognize Yuugi if we saw her? And if so, are either of those two her?
>Although you've never really interacted with her directly, you would know her to see her. You are quite certain neither of those oni are her.
-
Gonna try a slightly 'oni' approach meself here.
>"Yuugi Hoshiguma. She wanted to see me, and I wanted to see her. Where's she at?"
-
Before this.
>Walk over to the bar and lean on it if we can.
-
>Walk over to the bar and lean on it if we can.
>"Yuugi Hoshiguma. She wanted to see me, and I wanted to see her. Where's she at?"
>Despite the presence of alcohol, it isn't so much a bar as a counter that someone happens to be drinking behind. But they're oni, so this is hardly a remarkable achievement. Nonetheless, you walk over and lean on it.
>The shorter one gives you a vaguely off-putting grin-slash-leer, then laughs and takes another swig of sake.
>"Do you now?" she says.
-
>"Yeah, I do. She asked to see me, and I didn't see the need to keep her waiting. I bet she doesn't like waiting any more than I do."
-
>Add with a deadly serious expression. "And waiting's something I can't do."
-
>"Yeah, I do. She asked to see me, and I didn't see the need to keep her waiting. I bet she doesn't like waiting any more than I do."
>Add with a deadly serious expression. "And waiting's something I can't do."
>The oni listens along with more or less amiable attentiveness, then snorts at your last remark.
>"What, you broken or something?" she asks, grinning toothily at you.
>"She just doesn't wanna have to listen to you all night," the other oni interjects in a deep voice.
>"Hey, I'm not keeping ya here," she snipes back, without taking her eyes or grin off you.
-
>"Well where is she then?"
>When she tells us, head off wherever she indicated, then stop momentarily a couple steps away.
And then say this without turning around.
>"As for the broken remark...Heh, you might be closer to that than you realize..."
>Then continue on, in a determined manner. Gotta keep strong.
Come on, it's just begging to be played like that.
-
Add after that,
>"'least for now."
Cuz we ain't goin' down without a damn good fight.
-
>"Well where is she then?"
>"Not here, anyway," the oni replies, that increasingly insufferable grin still on her face.
-
Not again....
>"What's she, gone on another dig, or something?"
-
>"What's she, gone on another dig, or something?"
>"Well, you're the Seeker," she chuckles. "Whaddaya need me to tell you?"
-
>Cast Extended Charm Person. "You were saying...?"
>"How's about doing your boss a favor, and pointing me in the right direction?"
-
>Cast Extended Charm Person. "You were saying...?"
>"How's about doing your boss a favor, and pointing me in the right direction?"
>The oni laughs again. "If you're a magician, then I'm the second coming of Buddha."
>"Well, you can start by going..." She raises a finger and lazily thrusts it towards the doors out. "that way. After that?" She shrugs.
>"Try the forge," the other oni adds.
-
>Level 3 sorcerer. I dabbled after my 6th level in rogue, going for prestige class here.
>"Thanks, ladies."
>Do we know where that forge is, or does Braston have more than one forge in this part of town? If this is the case, ask them which one they mean.
-
>Level 3 sorcerer. I dabbled after my 6th level in rogue, going for prestige class here.
>"Thanks, ladies."
>Do we know where that forge is, or does Braston have more than one forge in this part of town? If this is the case, ask them which one they mean.
>"Ha. If you're level 9, I'm already epic tier over here."
>The shorter oni just laughs again.
>Given that this is the part of town where most of the smithing is done, there's certainly more than one forge here. You don't know distinctly which she would be referring to, so you ask.
>"Well, hers of course," the shorter oni says. "Who else's would you think?"
>The other oni pushes herself off the wall. "Eh, may as well show you where it is. Nothing better to do."
>"Hey!" the other cries in mock indignation. "You're makin' this too easy for the little mouse."
>Her companion gives her a sidelong glance. "Just do your job, Kojiki," she says, though without much evident disapproval in her voice.
>Kojiki makes a dismissive gesture. "Psssh... And who says I wasn't, eh?" She takes another swig.
-
>Nod at the second oni. "Thanks."
-
>Nod at the second oni. "Thanks."
>She gives a curt nod back to you as she passes by you and heads towards the exit. "C'mon."
-
>Follow the helpful one.
>Cast a glance back at the second one to make sure she doesn't bean us with anything on the way out.
-
>Follow the helpful one.
>Cast a glance back at the second one to make sure she doesn't bean us with anything on the way out.
>You follow the helpful oni out, sparing a glance back at the other one as you leave. She gives you a little wave and laughs again.
>The oni leads you back to the street and then down several more, casually striding forward without paying much attention to you or the people she passes. You do likewise. Soon enough you arrive in front of an unassuming, but well-constructed stonework building. Smoke raises from a pipe on its roof, and you can hear the sound of hammer against metal coming from inside.
>"This is the place," your guide says. "Sounds like she's in."
-
>"Excellent. Better for all of us."
>Give our guide a nod. "I'll buy ya a round next time I'm in town."
-
>"Excellent. Better for all of us."
>Give our guide a nod. "I'll buy ya a round next time I'm in town."
>She nods.
>"I'll be holding ya to that," she says, turning and walking back the way you came.
-
>Of course, since we never got your name, can't exactly ask for you...
>Enter, hold our nose against the smell of baking metal, and look/listen for Yuugi.
-
>Of course, since we never got your name, can't exactly ask for you...
>Enter, hold our nose against the smell of baking metal, and look/listen for Yuugi.
>That would seem to be a problem with making good on that, yes.
>You enter the building, screwing your nose up just a little against the sharp smells in the air. You enter into a dimly lit storeroom of sorts, stacked with a few piles of crates, and open wooden boxes of supplies and various bits and pieces of metal and other things. A few tools are spread out on a workbench against the wall. Light and noise streams in through another doorway a little further in and you head in that direction.
>You feel struck by an almost physical wave of heat as you step into the next room. This is clearly a blacksmith's workshop, arrayed neatly with all the various tools of the trade. The whole of it is bathed with the ruddy light of the forge. A towering blond-haired figure stands near to it with her back to you, holding a glowing piece of metal against an anvil and hammering it. Her muscles flex smoothly with every rhythmic strike.
>"What?" she calls out flatly, not slowing her work in the slightest.
-
>Glance around for any weapons on display; rapiers, dagger, twinblades, the sort of thing we feel most comfortable using.
>Is our treasure sense picking up any sort of magic coming from anywhere in here?
>"Yuugi Hoshiguma?"
-
>Glance around for any weapons on display; rapiers, dagger, twinblades, the sort of thing we feel most comfortable using.
>Is our treasure sense picking up any sort of magic coming from anywhere in here?
>"Yuugi Hoshiguma?"
>You glance about for any weapons on display. There is actually very little in the way of display here - it seems largely utilitarian - but you see a pair of likely unfinished sword blades resting on a rack, along with a rather wicked-looking great axe. Aside from this, you see a few mattock heads, what looks like part of a pair of spiked gauntlets, along with a variety of other metal pieces of less scrutable purpose.
>You're not so sure about magic, but you may be getting a little something...
>"Yeah?"
-
>Can we glean more details about that 'little something' without our dowsing rods? Try anyway.
-
>Can we glean more details about that 'little something' without our dowsing rods? Try anyway.
>Not precisely. Something in here might bear some enchantment, but it might simply be forged using some especially valuable metal like hihiirokane or orichalcum. Actually, you suspect the latter is almost certainly true, but can't rule out the former either.
-
>Dowsing with Yuugi in the room might not be such a hot idea.
>"I was told you wanted to see me. I'm Nazrin of the Seekers' guild."
-
>Dowsing with Yuugi in the room might not be such a hot idea.
>"I was told you wanted to see me. I'm Nazrin of the Seekers' guild."
>It might count as a little rude, certainly. No one has any fun when you rub an oni the wrong way.
>"Oh, are you now?" she says, turning her head towards you. She eyes you up and down slowly. "Huh. Guess you are." You note her gaze linger on Kumokirimaru's wrapped blade for several moments.
-
>"Ah, yes, the sword. It's a long story." Make sure that things's pointed down, held in no way an aggressive fashion. "I haven't had time to find a proper sheathe for it yet."
-
>"Ah, yes, the sword. It's a long story." Make sure that things's pointed down, held in no way an aggressive fashion. "I haven't had time to find a proper sheathe for it yet."
>"Mind if I have a look at it?" she says.
-
>Well, she's an oni. They don't steal. ... Do they?
>"Sure."
>Come a little closer to her, then hold it up.
>"Just one thing, though, I can't let it go."
-
>Well, she's an oni. They don't steal. ... Do they?
>"Sure."
>Come a little closer to her, then hold it up.
>"Just one thing, though, I can't let it go."
>There's an extremely strong cultural stricture against it. Oni are faultlessly honest and utterly intolerant of theft. However, none of this would necessarily stop one from beating you up and claiming something of yours as spoils of conquest. To them, this is apparently another matter entirely. However, in Braston at least, humans are generally safe from such things. Youkai... well, you suppose it varies a little, though it isn't very common either.
>You move in closer and hold the sword up for her to look at.
>She gives you an odd look. "How's that work?"
-
>"There's a long version, but the short version is, there's a curse on me. This sword, thanks to the faith in it, so I was told, is keeping that curse at bay. At least for now."
-
>"There's a long version, but the short version is, there's a curse on me. This sword, thanks to the faith in it, so I was told, is keeping that curse at bay. At least for now."
>She frowns. "This somethin' new?"
-
>Nod. "Happened on a job a couple of days ago."
-
>Nod. "Happened on a job a couple of days ago."
>Her frown deepens, almost into a hint of a scowl. It's bit of an unsettling expression. "So what happens when you let that thing go?"
-
>"The curse gets worse. A lot worse."
>"Here's the bottom line of it. So long as I hold this sword, I've got a bit less than two weeks to find a cure for this curse. Or disease, whatever it is, I haven't gotten a definitive answer on that yet. And if I let go the, those weeks become hours. If that long. And from what I've experienced, it wouldn't be a very dignified few hours."
-
>"The curse gets worse. A lot worse."
>"Here's the bottom line of it. So long as I hold this sword, I've got a bit less than two weeks to find a cure for this curse. Or disease, whatever it is, I haven't gotten a definitive answer on that yet. And if I let go the, those weeks become hours. If that long. And from what I've experienced, it wouldn't be a very dignified few hours."
>Yuugi is silent for a moment. There is a grim cast to her features that looks distinctly displeased. "Don't suppose this is one of those curse you can break with someone's face, is it?"
-
>She's an Oni, all right.
>"Don't I wish it was that simple. But no. I was told that this curse- she called it a blight- had no cure. At least no cure that was known to her, and believe me, she's been around. If it was just a matter of beating up the right person, she would have told me."
>"But I'm not giving up that easily. I'm a Seeker. If there's a cure anywhere in this world to be found, I'm gonna find it. I'm not out of time just yet."
-
>"So, what'd you need to see me for?"
-
>She's an Oni, all right.
>"Don't I wish it was that simple. But no. I was told that this curse- she called it a blight- had no cure. At least no cure that was known to her, and believe me, she's been around. If it was just a matter of beating up the right person, she would have told me."
>"But I'm not giving up that easily. I'm a Seeker. If there's a cure anywhere in this world to be found, I'm gonna find it. I'm not out of time just yet."
>The horn and manacles makes it hard to mistake her for anything else.
>Yuugi's expression remains grim and impassive for another few moments. Despite yourself, you find her looming presence disquieting. One doesn't become a leader of oni without the might to back it up. You don't see why she'd be upset with you at the moment, but that countenance makes you wish fervently never to be anywhere near her if she were. Then she suddenly breaks into a grin.
>"Proper thing!" she declares. "You're not done until you're done."
>"So, what'd you need to see me for?"
"Heard a little mouse tried to break an oni's face with her's," she says. "So I wanted to meet her for myself." She gives you another once over and then lets out a hearty chuckle.
-
>"Eh, it was nothing, just trying to hep a friend."
-
>"Eh, it was nothing, just trying to hep a friend."
>"Ha!" She gives you a presumably friendly, but still alarmingly forceful slap on the shoulder. You do your best not to visibly stagger. "Ya got guts, kid. And you won."
>She lets out another laugh. "I bet Yuzu's gonna be stewing over that for months."
-
>"Speaking of which, I'd been wondering what that whole affair was all about. It's not often you see oni hassling humans anymore. 'least around here."
>Rotate shoulder briefly.
-
>"Speaking of which, I'd been wondering what that whole affair was all about. It's not often you see oni hassling humans anymore. 'least around here."
>Rotate shoulder briefly.
>"Yuzu being a bloody boneheaded prat is what it's about," she says. "Too bad you didn't break a few more things while you were at it."
-
>"I felt bad enough for that sign as it was."
-
>Crack a grin.
>"I'll swing something harder the next time."
>"Still wonder what that guy did in the first place, though."
-
>"I felt bad enough for that sign as it was."
>"Ha!" Yuugi belts out a rich laugh and gives you another 'friendly' thump. "Suppose it'd be a shame if something worth a damn got broken 'cause of her."
>Crack a grin.
>"I'll swing something harder the next time."
>"Still wonder what that guy did in the first place, though."
>"Mind that ya do," she says, grinning back.
>"His job," she replies simply. "And a sight better than Yuzu ever did."
-
>"How's that?"
-
>"How's that?"
>"Her and Kojiro work at the same joint," she says. "Warehouse for one of the foundries. Y'know, supplies in, goods out, making sure everything gets where it needs to go, yeah? Well, last week he became her boss." She flashes you a feral grin. "Didn't like that one bit."
-
>"Obviously not. Her and her buddy, for that matter."
>"So I'm guessing Yuzu's still doing time?"
-
>Chuckle slightly. "Now I'm wondering if I shouldn't have tried using something harder from the get-go, because from what you've said about 'er, and how she was back then, I should've laid her out right there if I could."
>...Maybe we should start carrying around an oni-caliber metal club for that sort of thing in the future?
-
Well shit, now we're a scab. The only way to get back on the proper side of this labor dispute is to forcibly reclaim the means of production. With molotovs.
-
>Add to shopping list:
>1 Oni-grade Beatstick
>Ingredients for no fewer than three molotov cocktails
>1 Set of handcuffs.
-
>"Obviously not. Her and her buddy, for that matter."
>"So I'm guessing Yuzu's still doing time?"
>"Ango's an idiot for being there," Yuugi says, "and you better believe I've made sure she knows it, but she's still got better sense than to try punching up the Watch. Y'see, Yuzu's got this idea that oni are supposed to be on top. She's got the muscle, right? What's he got? She could break him in half without pulling a sweat." She laughs. "But they ain't bein' paid to break people. They're being paid to keep the factories moving, and he does a damn sight better at it than she ever could. About the only thing her head's good for is target practice." She laughs again.
>Yuugi grins a little. "Figured it'd do her good to have humans be the ones holding her. And if she does anything so stupid again, I'll put her back there myself with a couple less bones in her body."
>Chuckle slightly. "Now I'm wondering if I shouldn't have tried using something harder from the get-go, because from what you've said about 'er, and how she was back then, I should've laid her out right there if I could."
>...Maybe we should start carrying around an oni-caliber metal club for that sort of thing in the future?
>"Damn shame you didn't," she says. "Though I guess she would've missed being marched back by the Watch. We'll call it a wash."
>As rare as they seem these days, the real deal are alarmingly heavy.
>Add to shopping list:
>1 Oni-grade Beatstick
>Ingredients for no fewer than three molotov cocktails
>1 Set of handcuffs.
>"Got all that right here," Yuugi says, "if ya wanna save yerself a trip."
-
>"How'd Kojiro make out, anyway? I never got a chance to see him after the tussle was over."
-
>"How'd Kojiro make out, anyway? I never got a chance to see him after the tussle was over."
>"He's healin' okay," she says. "Couple broken bones, but nothing that won't get better. Guy's pretty tough for a human."
-
>High praise from an oni.
>"Good to hear."
>Point at the sword with our tail. "Tell me, you ever seen anything like this blade here before? If I can find the people that made it, I might be able to find a cure for this curse. There's writing on the guard, too, that I couldn't translate. Might be an oni language, for all I know."
-
>High praise from an oni.
>"Good to hear."
>Point at the sword with our tail. "Tell me, you ever seen anything like this blade here before? If I can find the people that made it, I might be able to find a cure for this curse. There's writing on the guard, too, that I couldn't translate. Might be an oni language, for all I know."
>Yuugi leans in towards the guard and stares at it for a couple moments. "Nah, nothing I can read," she says, then looks back up. "Ya mind taking the wrapping off the blade for a bit?"
-
>"That, I can do."
>Unwrap it.
-
>"That, I can do."
>Unwrap it.
>You slowly unwind the cloth from the blade, taking care not to cut it to uselessness in the process; parts of it are already looking fairly ragged on the interior. Yuugi examines the sword's surface with a practiced eye, then runs her finger along it and tests the edge and structure.
>"That's a damn fine weapon you got there," she says. "Wish I could tell ya you who forged it; I'd like to meet 'em myself!" She lets out another laugh. "But seriously, doesn't bring anyone to mind right away and I've seen my share. Certainly no one around here, anyhow. Where'd ya get it?"
-
>"Found it underground, near an old shrine. From what I've been told, it's got to do with spiders. Have you ever heard of spiders being a problem around here?"
-
>"Found it underground, near an old shrine. From what I've been told, it's got to do with spiders. Have you ever heard of spiders being a problem around here?"
>"Spiders?" She gives you an odd look. "Nope, can't say I have. Well, unless you count that time that shipment from Takisaki was full of the buggers. The harbour was damn near crawling with them for weeks."
>She pauses. "Probably not what you meant, though."
-
>"Think bigger. Several feet bigger."
-
>"And maybe connected to a somewhat dim youkai. Keep that last bit to yourself for now."
-
>"Think bigger. Several feet bigger."
>Yuugi screws up her face a little. It rather reminds you of the expression one gets when they realize they've just stepped in something very unpleasant.
>"And maybe connected to a somewhat dim youkai. Keep that last bit to yourself for now."
>"Huh." She pauses. "Well, nothing like that, not around here."
-
>Very unpleasant. Yeah, that's a diplomatic way of putting it.
>"That's what I figured. You've been in a fair number of holes in the ground around here, figured you might have encountered something like this before. Had to ask."
>Begin wrapping the blade again, then pause. "Don't suppose you'd have a decent sheathe around here for this thing? Cloth's getting a bit ratty." If she forges weapons, she might have sheathes for them lying around.
-
>Very unpleasant. Yeah, that's a diplomatic way of putting it.
>"That's what I figured. You've been in a fair number of holes in the ground around here, figured you might have encountered something like this before. Had to ask."
>Begin wrapping the blade again, then pause. "Don't suppose you'd have a decent sheathe around here for this thing? Cloth's getting a bit ratty." If she forges weapons, she might have sheathes for them lying around.
>She shakes her head. "Nope, sorry."
>"Doubt I have anything that would fit it," she says. "Damn shame, too. Weapon like that deserves one to match. If you could let the thing go for a bit, I'd offer to get ya a proper one made for it for cheap. Guess that's gonna have to wait 'til you get this all fixed up, eh?" She flashes you a little grin. "Although... suppose I could get something loose in leather worked up to hold you over, if ya want. Damn crude for something that fine, but what can you do, eh?"
-
>"If there's one thing I've learned over the past few days, it's how to make do with what you have. Those big spiders I told ya about? Took down a full dozen of em with a couple daggers, a torch and a pitchfork I bummed off a farmer."
>"'bout how long will it take to up that leather one? I'll be glad to take you up on that offer, after this sorry affair is wrapped up, but I'll certainly take what I can get for now."
-
>"If there's one thing I've learned over the past few days, it's how to make do with what you have. Those big spiders I told ya about? Took down a full dozen of em with a couple daggers, a torch and a pitchfork I bummed off a farmer."
>"'bout how long will it take to up that leather one? I'll be glad to take you up on that offer, after this sorry affair is wrapped up, but I'll certainly take what I can get for now."
>"Ha! That's the right stuff, kid." She grins at you.
>"I can have it for you by tomorrow, if you wanna swing by again then," she says.
-
>Can't leave town until we see Marisa anyway, or at least if she's coming back soon.
>"Yeah, I'll be in town for a while yet, tomorrow'll be fine."
>"Just one more thing, outta curiousity. You haven't seen Marisa around town today, have you?"
-
>Can't leave town until we see Marisa anyway, or at least if she's coming back soon.
>"Yeah, I'll be in town for a while yet, tomorrow'll be fine."
>"Just one more thing, outta curiousity. You haven't seen Marisa around town today, have you?"
>Yuugi nods. "Just let me get some measurements." She turns and walks over to one of the tool benches.
>"Marisa?" she asks, grabbing a measuring tool from among the neatly-arrayed equipment. "Marisa... Oh, wait, you mean that loose canon of a witch with your gang? Rides a broom like a bloody rocket?"
-
>"That's the one."
>Extend the sword out from us to let her measure it.
>"Bit of a distinctive figure, isn't she. I've been trying to track her down since I got back to town."
-
>"Been looking for her to have her help out with the whole spider business."
>"See, I figure that the only way that Youkai who's leading the spiders will sit down, shut up, and listen, is to really let her have it."
>"And the way I'm seeing it, Marisa's one of the best for the job because of all those explosions she's good at causing."
>Nod.
>"See, she wouldn't listen to words, so the only other option is to beat it into her. Something I'd wager you know all about doing eh?"
-
>Do we know of any spelunker types around town?
-
>"Been looking for her to have her help out with the whole spider business."
>"See, I figure that the only way that Youkai who's leading the spiders will sit down, shut up, and listen, is to really let her have it."
>"And the way I'm seeing it, Marisa's one of the best for the job because of all those explosions she's good at causing."
>Nod.
>"See, she wouldn't listen to words, so the only other option is to beat it into her. Something I'd wager you know all about doing eh?"
>Let's not put it quite this way. We still don't know that the youkai was in charge, only that she was living down there. Instead, let's say,
>"I've got some unfinished business with those spiders and that youkai back in Easthaven, but I need a bigger gun to handle it. Especially since I'm... Well, like this. And Marisa's gotta be the biggest gun this side of the Wild Lands, or damn near it. If I can find her, she handle both those issues maybe in one blast, and I can focus on getting myself fixed up."
>Smirk. "And then I can gloat to that youkai when I see her next."
-
>"That's the one."
>Extend the sword out from us to let her measure it.
>"Bit of a distinctive figure, isn't she. I've been trying to track her down since I got back to town."
>You extend the sword, and Yuugi starts to measure the length, thickness, and curvature.
>"Bloody maniac," she says, then chuckles lightly. "Can't say I've seen her lately, though."
>Do we know of any spelunker types around town?
>There's certainly plenty of miners, and you know that some of the mines run quite deep, but you're not immediately familiar with anyone who goes caving for pleasure.
>"I've got some unfinished business with those spiders and that youkai back in Easthaven, but I need a bigger gun to handle it. Especially since I'm... Well, like this. And Marisa's gotta be the biggest gun this side of the Wild Lands, or damn near it. If I can find her, she handle both those issues maybe in one blast, and I can focus on getting myself fixed up."
>Smirk. "And then I can gloat to that youkai when I see her next."
>"Huh. Out in Easthaven?" She frowns a little. "How many of them are there?"
-
>"Youkai? Only one. Spiders? That's a little less certain. I wasn't down in their cave long enough to do a head count. Or thorax count, or whatever the hell you count on a spider, but I can promise you this. I killed a dozen, but there's plenty more where they came from. Folks out there had a plan to at least keep em contained, but Marisa' our guarantee they don't threaten the place again. And she can get the youkai outta there without blowing her to kingdom come in the process."
>"That is, of course, if I can track her down soon. If I can't find her by sometime tomorrow, I'll have to start looking for alternatives."
-
>"Youkai? Only one. Spiders? That's a little less certain. I wasn't down in their cave long enough to do a head count. Or thorax count, or whatever the hell you count on a spider, but I can promise you this. I killed a dozen, but there's plenty more where they came from. Folks out there had a plan to at least keep em contained, but Marisa' our guarantee they don't threaten the place again. And she can get the youkai outta there without blowing her to kingdom come in the process."
>"That is, of course, if I can track her down soon. If I can't find her by sometime tomorrow, I'll have to start looking for alternatives."
>"Huh." Yuugi slowly nods. "Well, if I hear sight of her, I'll pass it along."
-
>"'ppreciate it."
>There's a thought...
>"And speaking of alternatives... you and your Miners. You ever take on... extraciriccular jobs?"
-
>"'ppreciate it."
>There's a thought...
>"And speaking of alternatives... you and your Miners. You ever take on... extraciriccular jobs?"
>She nods.
>"Like what?" she asks, fixing you with a neutral yet somehow dubious-looking stare.
-
>"I figure, if I can't find Marisa, a few strong oni'd be good place to turn. Can't be many on this contintent who know being underground as well as your and your guildmates."
-
>"I figure, if I can't find Marisa, a few strong oni'd be good place to turn. Can't be many on this contintent who know being underground as well as your and your guildmates."
>"Eh, might get a few volunteers," she says.
-
>Not the resounding confirmation we might have hoped for, but a foot in the door is a foot in the door.
>Wait till she's done measuring.
-
>Not the resounding confirmation we might have hoped for, but a foot in the door is a foot in the door.
>Wait till she's done measuring.
>It's not a no, at the very least.
>She finishes up the measurements, and nods to you. "That'll do it," she says.
-
That spelunking question reminded me of something, Purvis.
>Do we know of any places in town to get decent prices on good quality 'underground' gear? Grappling hooks, rope, light sources, that sort of thing. See if we can avoid having to Macgyver improvise torches next time.
>If we do not, ask Yuugi about it.
-
>Do we know of any places in town to get decent prices on good quality 'underground' gear? Grappling hooks, rope, light sources, that sort of thing. See if we can avoid having to Macgyver improvise torches next time.
>If we do not, ask Yuugi about it.
>You know several places that deal in general supplies such as these, including at least two that the Seeker's Guild has brokered provisioning contracts with in past, largely for gear used in apprentice training, but also for supplies used in the general upkeep and running of the place. One in particular offers a modest ongoing discount to Seekers. It's possible the more esoteric or very highest quality mining gear might require specialist sources that Yuugi would be more familiar with, but you can certainly obtain those items on your own steam.
-
>"Well, still got at least one more stop to make tonight, so I'd best be on my way. Was a pleasure, Yuugi. Be seein' ya... bout what time tomorrow should I stop by for that sheathe?"
-
>"Well, still got at least one more stop to make tonight, so I'd best be on my way. Was a pleasure, Yuugi. Be seein' ya... bout what time tomorrow should I stop by for that sheathe?"
>Her brow creases. "Uh... let's say afternoonish. Oh, and about this curse business. You find someone who needs leaning on, you let me know, eh? Hate to see someone with guts go down to something like this, y'know?"
-
>Extend our free hand to the oni for a handshake.
>"I appreciate that, Yuugi. You'll be my first call."
-
>"Don't spread word about this just yet, though. I want to try to keep it under control, and arrive at an understanding with that youkai, whether I have to beat it into her head with a rock or not. You'll probably know when it's a good time to let the word out."
>Pause for a moment.
>"Your mining and caving friends, they wouldn't happen to keep maps, would they?"
-
>Extend our free hand to the oni for a handshake.
>"I appreciate that, Yuugi. You'll be my first call."
>You extend your hand to Yuugi and she all but envelopes it in one of her own, squeezing vice-like.
>She flashes you a fierce grin. "You show that curse who's boss now, ya hear?"
>"Don't spread word about this just yet, though. I want to try to keep it under control, and arrive at an understanding with that youkai, whether I have to beat it into her head with a rock or not. You'll probably know when it's a good time to let the word out."
>Pause for a moment.
>"Your mining and caving friends, they wouldn't happen to keep maps, would they?"
>"Got it," she says.
>She screws up her face a little. "'course we got maps," she says. "What kinda operation you think we're running?"
-
>"Well, every organization has it's secrets. Do you have anything within a day's walk of Easthaven?"
-
>"Well, every organization has it's secrets. Do you have anything within a day's walk of Easthaven?"
>"Most of the island's within a day's walk of Easthaven," she says. "You lookin' for something specific?"
-
>"The forest to the <proper compass direction for the spider house> of Easthaven. We'll go from there."
-
>"The forest to the <proper compass direction for the spider house> of Easthaven. We'll go from there."
>The forest itself spreads across the full north of Easthaven and continues for an uncertain distance both north and west. The spider caverns were among the hills to the northeast, however.
>"Nah, no mines up that way," she says, shaking her head. "Easthaven's got dibs on most of the land for a mile or two out. Don't wanna be tearing up the ground too close to the breadbasket, yeah? Not like anyone's found anything out there worth the trouble of digging it, anyhow," she mutters, then pauses a moment. "Actually... sounds like it'd be gettin' pretty close to the edge out there, either way. Mining near one of those is a right bugger. Botch the survey just a bit and you can break a dig clear through."
-
>In all the times we were around there, did we pick up any sense of precious metals or minerals other than the sword?
-
>In all the times we were around there, did we pick up any sense of precious metals or minerals other than the sword?
>You did get a vague sense what you believe may have been a silver vein on your way out of the caves, but didn't take the time to investigate closer; you were already feeling deeply exhausted from your struggle and brewing illness. It would be difficult for you to estimate its value or accessibility from what you can recall of it, though in general the rock there was not appreciably rich in valuable minerals.
-
>"Hm. What would be the closest activity to that area?"
-
>Make a mental note of that silver vein anyway, might be worth investigating a little more once we get rid of this blight and the spider affair is settled once and for all. And if it is, might be worth selling the info to Yuugi.
-
>"Hm. What would be the closest activity to that area?"
>"Eh.... probably Redrock Point, 'bout... 4 miles out the road from Easthaven, up north."
>Make a mental note of that silver vein anyway, might be worth investigating a little more once we get rid of this blight and the spider affair is settled once and for all. And if it is, might be worth selling the info to Yuugi.
>You make a mental note about the possible silver deposit. There's always a chance it's economically viable.
-
>"Can I see what you have with that place?"
-
>"Can I see what you have with that place?"
>"Charts and all that are at the guild, if you wanna take a look at them," she says. "Anyone gives you a hassle over it, tell 'em to take it up with me. Not sure what you're hoping to find there, though."
-
>"Maybe a little history to the place, not sure myself. I suppose I'm mostly looking for answers. This whole business left a lotta questions unanswered. And while I'm looking for a cure, no reason I can't find some answers as well, eh."
>"Thanks again, Yuugi. I'll be seeing you tomorrow sometime."
>If she doesn't stop us, proceed to the Brass Lantern.
Assuming you're done, of course, Purvis.
-
Yeah, I think I've arsked most of what I could think of.
-
>"Maybe a little history to the place, not sure myself. I suppose I'm mostly looking for answers. This whole business left a lotta questions unanswered. And while I'm looking for a cure, no reason I can't find some answers as well, eh."
>"Thanks again, Yuugi. I'll be seeing you tomorrow sometime."
>If she doesn't stop us, proceed to the Brass Lantern.
>Yuugi nods. "Count on it."
>You turn and exit the smithy; you can hear Yuugi resuming her work at the forge as you make your way out.
>Your trip out of the industrial district is a little more eventful than the trip in. Heading southwest towards where the harbor meets marketplace, you pass a couple roving groups of loudly inebriated oni - not that there is often any other kind - and at one point are forced to hastily sidestep a large bottle as it makes an unannounced flight out the open door of tavern. It crashes loudly against the cobblestone beside you and shatters into large jagged fragments, a trickle of sake pooling in their center. This is immediately followed by the sounds of a apparently good-natured punch-up from inside the establishment, at least judging by the tone of the cheering onlookers - with oni, it can sometimes be hard to tell.
>In any case, you make it clear of oni territory without inuring any new and novel injuries, and soon enough arrive at the Brass Lantern. There are still signs of life around you, from the market and elsewhere, but the loudest bustle has faded away into the north - at this distance, more a reassuring constant than an unpleasant cacophony.
>The Brass Lantern itself is a well-constructed and tasteful structure, its stonework complemented with broad wooden beams and lattices in an effort to look welcoming. The exterior is lit warmly by the eponymous light source, hung from the beams at intervals, and a well-painted sign is affixed above the entrance. From inside the building comes the sound of mild conversation.
-
>What's the food like here?
>Wrap the sword, if we didn't after Yuugi was done, and enter.
-
>What's the food like here?
>Wrap the sword, if we didn't after Yuugi was done, and enter.
>You've never eaten here personally, but you understand it to be decent fare, if a bit generic.
>Having already rewrapped your sword before you left Yuugi's, you step inside.
>You enter into a modest lobby, its decor repeating the aesthetic of the exterior: dark-grained wood upon precise stonework. The room is suffused with a warm glow from the multiple lanterns hung on chains from the ceiling. The overall effect is reminiscent of being close to a cozy hearth. A young woman manning a counter opposite the doorway looks up as you enter, a professionally welcoming expression on her face.
-
>Nice place, but Minoriko's a hard act to follow.
>Approach the hostess.
>"Nazrin, liscenced Seeker. I was told there was a group of archaeologists from Val Razua staying here. I've got some business I'd like to discuss with them."
-
>Nice place, but Minoriko's a hard act to follow.
>Approach the hostess.
>"Nazrin, liscenced Seeker. I was told there was a group of archaeologists from Val Razua staying here. I've got some business I'd like to discuss with them."
>The place may be bigger than hers, but without even tasting it, you're quite certain the food's not as good.
>You approach the woman and inquire after the archeologists.
>"I'm not sure if any of them are here at the moment," she says, still smiling pleasantly at you, "but you can try room 201."
-
>That would be in keeping with the theme so far today...
>Ask her where that is, and go there, and have a knock upon the door.
>Where did we usually go for grub at this time of day, before we 'graduated' to full Seeker?
-
>That would be in keeping with the theme so far today...
>Ask her where that is, and go there, and have a knock upon the door.
>Where did we usually go for grub at this time of day, before we 'graduated' to full Seeker?
>Stupid people and their not being at home when you call on them...
>You ask the receptionist for directions and then make your way upstairs to the room. You knock.
>The Seeker's guildhall keeps a fairly well-stocked kitchen for the apprentices, though it's essentially self-serve. You weren't exactly rolling in money as an apprentice, so you tended to stick to simple food from the market and what you could scrounge from the kitchen for free.
>A few moments later, the door is opened by a young woman with shoulder-length brown hair. "Yes? Is there-" She visibly stiffens as she notices the sword in your hand, then you see her eyes flicker towards your badge. The effect is not as calming as you might have hoped.
>"Is there... something I can do for you?" she asks warily.
-
>That sheathe's gonna be handy in more ways than one.
>"Actually, I think there's something we can do for each other. My name is Nazrin, and I'm with the Seeekers. I'm hoping you have some information I need, and I think I have some information you'd like, as well. May I step inside?"
-
>That sheathe's gonna be handy in more ways than one.
>"Actually, I think there's something we can do for each other. My name is Nazrin, and I'm with the Seeekers. I'm hoping you have some information I need, and I think I have some information you'd like, as well. May I step inside?"
>Indeed.
>"I'd rather you explain first," she says, inching the door slightly more closed. "If it's all the same to you. I-" She looks at the sword again, and then her eyes widen slightly. "Wait- is that?" She looks back at you expectantly, an almost urgent expression on her face.
-
>Suppress a grin. Now we're gettin' somewhere.
>"Ahh, you recognize it, I see."
-
>Suppress a grin. Now we're gettin' somewhere.
>"Ahh, you recognize it, I see."
>She nods without taking her eyes off it. "Your guildmaster showed me the rubbings yesterday. Said he didn't really know much more about it than that, though. Where'd you find it?" There is an undisguised enthusiasm in her voice. She seems to have forgotten her earlier wariness entirely.
-
>"Short answer: Underground, near a river. There's a long answer, but the middle of a hallway might not be the best place to tell that story."
-
>"Short answer: Underground, near a river. There's a long answer, but the middle of a hallway might not be the best place to tell that story."
>"Oh! Oh yes, of course," she says, then frowns and stares at you again, hesitating.
>"No offense intended, honestly, but..." She pauses again, looking distinctly uncomfortable. "You mind handing that to me first? I promise I'm not going off with it."
-
>"Well, that's part of what I wanted to discuss. I can't hand it over. To you, or anyone else. I can't let it out of my grasp, not for an instant, at least not for the next couple weeks."
>Add under our breath, "If I get that far..."
>"I promise you, I don't mean any harm. I only have the sword wrapped because I don't have a sheathe for it."
-
>"Well, that's part of what I wanted to discuss. I can't hand it over. To you, or anyone else. I can't let it out of my grasp, not for an instant, at least not for the next couple weeks."
>Add under our breath, "If I get that far..."
>"I promise you, I don't mean any harm. I only have the sword wrapped because I don't have a sheathe for it."
>She frowns as you explain and seems to tense a little again.
>"No, no, I don't mean anything against you," she says. "And I'm sorry. Please don't take it the wrong way, it's just, well... we've had... issues." She frowns uncomfortably.
-
>Yeah, that doesn't sound ominous at all.
>"I hope you've had better luck getting your issues resolved than I've had. ... Or ARE they resolved?"
-
>Yeah, that doesn't sound ominous at all.
>"I hope you've had better luck getting your issues resolved than I've had. ... Or ARE they resolved?"
>"Well, uh..." She shifts nervously. "I probably shouldn't say any more, really. But there's nothing from the dig left here now. It's all been packed up and shipped out. Just saying." She gives you an odd look.
-
>Ooooookay....
>Sweep the area with our treasure sense, and listen for sounds from inside the room.
-
>Ooooookay....
>Sweep the area with our treasure sense, and listen for sounds from inside the room.
>Yeah, that's definitely a bit odd.
>You may get the vague sense of a couple minorly magical items somewhere in the inn, but you can't say for certain that they're in this room, and they're of no great magnitude in any case. The room appears to be silent.
-
>"I'm only here looking for an exchange of information, is all. I need to know everything I can learn about this sword, and I can tell you everything about where I found it, and what else was down there."
-
>"I'm only here looking for an exchange of information, is all. I need to know everything I can learn about this sword, and I can tell you everything about where I found it, and what else was down there."
>"I don't think I can tell you anything about that sword that I didn't already say to your guildmaster," she says. "I'm just excited even getting a look at it. I'd love to hear what you have to say, though."
>She hesitates a moment and then opens the door a little wider again.
-
>Glance around inside, without drawing her attention.
-
>Glance around inside, without drawing her attention.
>You glance discreetly at the interior. It looks to be the outer room of a suite, moderately untidy, though not enough to look suspicious. There is an assortment of papers and books on the table - some open, some closed - along with writing materials. Several boxes and packs are stacked about the rest of the room.
-
>"Are you the leader of your team?"
-
>"Are you the leader of your team?"
>"What?" She actually seems a little taken aback. "Oh, no, no, Professor Kamishirasawa is in charge of the expedition. I'm just a student." She gives you a bit of a sheepish grin. "I got stuck doing the shopping this time."
-
>Give her an understanding chuckle.
>"Gotta be somebody, doesn't it? Doesn't seem that long ago, I was still a student myself."
>Is that name known to us?
>"So this professor, Kamishirasawa. She still in town?"
-
>Give her an understanding chuckle.
>"Gotta be somebody, doesn't it? Doesn't seem that long ago, I was still a student myself."
>Is that name known to us?
>"So this professor, Kamishirasawa. She still in town?"
>You chuckle a little.
>"It's not so bad, I guess," she says. "Besides, I got to see that inscription before any of the rest of them, so I suppose there's that!"
>It is not.
>She shakes her head. "Nope, she's back at the dig with most of the others. I'm holding down the fort until the next skimmer can take me and this stuff back up there."
-
My sidequest/fetchquest senses are tingling. I think we should ask about these issues she mentioned. We may not be able to leave town until we settle the Marisa problem, but that doesn't mean we can't do something in the meantime.
-
>"I'm still curious about those 'issues' you mentioned. If things have gone missing, it's kinda my thing to find things that go astray."
-
>"I'm still curious about those 'issues' you mentioned. If things have gone missing, it's kinda my thing to find things that go astray."
>"Oh, uh-" She gives an awkward half-frown. "Nothing really missing, no. It's no big deal, really."
-
>"Humor me."
-
>"Humor me."
>"I'd... really rather not," she replies, attempting to look a little more firm.
-
>"All right, that's up to you."
>"But tell me this, if you please. Is Professor Kamishirasawa going to be back into town tomorrow? Or sometime in the next day or two?"
-
>"All right, that's up to you."
>"But tell me this, if you please. Is Professor Kamishirasawa going to be back into town tomorrow? Or sometime in the next day or two?"
>"I wouldn't expect so," she says, "unless... something important comes up. We're dug in for the long haul up there. Er, pardon the pun. With this resupply, we should be good for at least another week or two, probably. I'm sure the professor would be interested in seeing that sword, though. I could ask if she'd mind you stopping by. If you don't mind either, of course!" she adds hastily.
-
>Stifle a chuckle at the pun. Imagine that comes up a lot in their line of work.
>"I can't leave town for the next day or two myself, I have to see one my guildmates about another job, and I can't afford to miss her."
>"About how far is it between here and there, anyway?"
-
>Stifle a chuckle at the pun. Imagine that comes up a lot in their line of work.
>"I can't leave town for the next day or two myself, I have to see one my guildmates about another job, and I can't afford to miss her."
>"About how far is it between here and there, anyway?"
>You stifle a chuckle. You seem to be doing a lot of that lately.
>"Oh, ok. Maybe later, then?" She frowns a little, glancing at the sword again. "I wish I had one of the cameras with me..."
>"It's about a four or five hour trip," she says. "Though some of that's because of how slow they need to take it in places. It's tricky to navigate - probably why it went undiscovered for so long. Some of the skyreefs along the way are really spectacular, though!"
-
>Not as bad as we'd feared. Half a day, round trip.... Pity Marisa proved hard to track down.
>"Well, if it turns out I can go that way, nice to know I can expect a nice view."
>Do we know enough about this location to find it on our own? If not, ask nicely for directions, in the event we find Marisa soon.
-
>Not as bad as we'd feared. Half a day, round trip.... Pity Marisa proved hard to track down.
>"Well, if it turns out I can go that way, nice to know I can expect a nice view."
>Do we know enough about this location to find it on our own? If not, ask nicely for directions, in the event we find Marisa soon.
>All things considered, that's not too far away.
>She nods. "Yeah, it's pretty great."
>The extent of your knowledge of the dig's location is an islet off the northern edge of Estval, so you inquire for more specifics.
>"Oh, I couldn't tell you how to get there," she says. "Not with any specifics - I'm no navigator. Like I said, it's pretty hard to get to at all. We've chartered a skimmer to ferry people and gear back and forth from here when we need it. The larger ships are just too big to navigate the route."
-
>"Don't suppose you'd mind telling me if these skimmers have a regular schedule?"
-
>"Don't suppose you'd mind telling me if these skimmers have a regular schedule?"
>"Well, kinda... We try to do a regular run each week, bringing stuff back from town and rotating who's on Braston duty. If there's an emergency or something, we can get one there faster, usually. I'm supposed to be going back tomorrow afternoon."
-
>"Let's say, for the sake of argument, I manage to track down my colleague before then. Would there be room for me? I'd very much like for this prof to see my sword."
-
>"Let's say, for the sake of argument, I manage to track down my colleague before then. Would there be room for me? I'd very much like for this prof to see my sword."
>"There's room, but well..." She frowns. "I can't really just say it's okay for you to come along, either. I mean, it's not my call to make. The dig isn't really supposed to be open to the general public and all..."
-
>"I can respect that. I'd just hate to miss getting the history of this thing, if I can. And as you said, your prof, and your fellows'd love a look at it as well."
>"If it means anything, though, I'm not exactly the general public. I'm just a lone seeker with information to sell, or trade, looking for information of her own. I've no interest in what you're- I don't even know what you're digging for up there." Add quickly, "And I'm not fishing for info, just saying. Whatever you're looking for up there's not what I'm after, and I know how to keep a secret."
-
>"I can respect that. I'd just hate to miss getting the history of this thing, if I can. And as you said, your prof, and your fellows'd love a look at it as well."
>"I, er, think you may be giving us too much credit if you think we can tell you much about that sword's history," she say, frowning slightly. "At least yet, anyway. I'll be bringing back a copy of the rubbing for the others to look at, but I can't promise that even Professor Kamishirasawa will be able to translate any of it. Our knowledge of Freelands Archaic is... fragmentary at best. But hopefully that'll be changing soon!"
>"If it means anything, though, I'm not exactly the general public. I'm just a lone seeker with information to sell, or trade, looking for information of her own. I've no interest in what you're- I don't even know what you're digging for up there." Add quickly, "And I'm not fishing for info, just saying. Whatever you're looking for up there's not what I'm after, and I know how to keep a secret."
>"No offense to you, but I'm sure that's what they all say. It's no secret how... mercenary some of your type are." Then her eyes widen slightly and she makes a quick dismissive gesture. "Uh, not that I'm saying you're lying or anything. I'm sure you're a nice person and all, really."
>She lets out a little breath. "But it doesn't really matter what I think, anyway. Like I said, it's not my call; I'm just a student."
-
>"I get ya."
>"If your boss decides this sword's worth having a look at personally, tell her I'll be in town until tomorrow at least, until I hear back from Marisa."
>Didn't Marisa mention doing a job for these blokes before? If she did, ask missy here if she's seen her about lately.
-
>"I get ya."
>"If your boss decides this sword's worth having a look at personally, tell her I'll be in town until tomorrow at least, until I hear back from Marisa."
>Didn't Marisa mention doing a job for these blokes before? If she did, ask missy here if she's seen her about lately.
>She nods. "I will, don't you worry."
>She did not.
-
>"Just outta curiousity, you haven't seen a woman named Marisa Kirisame recently, have you? Blonde haired witch, rides a broom."
-
>Ask her if she's seen or slept with Marisa anyway, and describe Mari if need be.
>She shakes her head. "Nope, don't think I've seen anyone like that. At least not that I've noticed. Um... why?"
-
>"Because she's the Seeker I'm trying to track down, and it's proving to be harder than I thought."
>Damn you, Mari.... And damn me for relying so much on you being here.
>"Ah, well, that's my problem. One I'd hoped to have settled tonight, but if I can't, so be it. Been the story of my life lately."
>"Thanks for your time."
-
>"Because she's the Seeker I'm trying to track down, and it's proving to be harder than I thought."
>Damn you, Mari.... And damn me for relying so much on you being here.
>"Ah, well, that's my problem. One I'd hoped to have settled tonight, but if I can't, so be it. Been the story of my life lately."
>"Thanks for your time."
>"Oh." She seems brought up a little short by this, then assumes a kind of sheepishly apologetic expression. "Sorry."
>Of all the times...
>"Hey, wait," the archaeologist cries. "Don't I get to have a better look at that first? Uh, I mean... can I?"
-
>Beh. What's a minute or two.
>"Sure. Why not. Want me to unwrap it, or it good enough as is?"
-
>Beh. What's a minute or two.
>"Sure. Why not. Want me to unwrap it, or it good enough as is?"
>She nods. "Please."
-
>Trusting woman.
>Unwrap the blade, slowly, so as not to alarm her.
>Keep an eye on her, too, in case she tries to grab the thing. Or us.
-
>Trusting woman.
>Unwrap the blade, slowly, so as not to alarm her.
>Keep an eye on her, too, in case she tries to grab the thing. Or us.
>Or simply excited enough about seeing it to be oblivious. Academics...
>You unwrap the blade slowly. As you do, the archeologist stares closely at the inscription on the guard, shifting her position from one side to the other to get a better sense of its dimensionality.
>She makes no attempt to tackle or disarm you while you unwind the cloth. Once the blade becomes exposed, she sizes it up closely.
>"The condition of this is amazing," she says. "Did you get it restored, or was it like this when you found it?"
-
>"Not restored. Haven't had time for anything like that yet. It was this way when I found it next to that river. Couldn't tell ya how long it was down there for, either."
-
>"Not restored. Haven't had time for anything like that yet. It was this way when I found it next to that river. Couldn't tell ya how long it was down there for, either."
>"It looks practically new," she says, moving around it again. "I don't think any Freelands Archaic find has been in anything near this condition. Where was this river?" The excitement in her voice is obvious.
-
>"Hate to dissapoint, but that's something I wanted to discuss with the leader of your group."
-
>"Hate to dissapoint, but that's something I wanted to discuss with the leader of your group."
>She looks up from the sword and frowns at you. "Oh?"
-
>"Safe bet you're gonna wanna go and investigate the place yourselves. Well, take it from me, that place is anything but safe. I'd want to have a word with your boss about just what you can expect down there. I didn't know what I was getting into, and trust me, I paid for it."
-
>"Safe bet you're gonna wanna go and investigate the place yourselves. Well, take it from me, that place is anything but safe. I'd want to have a word with your boss about just what you can expect down there. I didn't know what I was getting into, and trust me, I paid for it."
>Her brow creases uncertainly, a flicker of disquiet in her eyes. "I... see."
-
>"You mentioned Freelands Archaic. How far back are we talking with that language, centuries?"
-
>"You mentioned Freelands Archaic. How far back are we talking with that language, centuries?"
>"Many centuries," she replies. "We actually know very little about it or the culture that created it. Or what became of them, for that matter. It predates modern settlement in this region significantly. There have been small scattered findings over the years, but nothing on the scale of this new dig. We're really only getting started."
>She looks intently at the sword again. "Of course, this doesn't look very old at all..."
-
>Still only a student, but...
>"In all your findings and research, have you ever discovered signs, records of a conflict between the ancient peoples and- and this might sound crazy- spiders? Specifically giant spiders?"
-
>Still only a student, but...
>"In all your findings and research, have you ever discovered signs, records of a conflict between the ancient peoples and- and this might sound crazy- spiders? Specifically giant spiders?"
>Her features contract in wary puzzlement. "...no?"
-
>Chuckle.
>"Yeah, I know it sounds crazy. Had to ask, though."
>"What about other swords, or weapons in general. This the first one you've seen with this kinda writing on it?"
-
>Chuckle.
>"Yeah, I know it sounds crazy. Had to ask, though."
>"What about other swords, or weapons in general. This the first one you've seen with this kinda writing on it?"
>She stares at you keenly while you dismiss your question, her eyes just a little skeptical, but she says nothing.
>"I don't... think we've recovered weapons," she says. "Er, well nothing comes to mind right away, but I suppose I shouldn't really say there aren't any. I'd have to check with the professor."
-
>"Fair enough."
>Point at the sword.
>"I admit, I'm not sure about the 'historical signifigance' of this sword, that's your department. But this guy got me out of a tight spot, and I'd like to know his story one day."
>"Well, one problem at a time. First I gotta find Marisa, then I can focus on this guy's life story. Speaking of which, if you're done...?"
-
>"Fair enough."
>Point at the sword.
>"I admit, I'm not sure about the 'historical signifigance' of this sword, that's your department. But this guy got me out of a tight spot, and I'd like to know his story one day."
>"Well, one problem at a time. First I gotta find Marisa, then I can focus on this guy's life story. Speaking of which, if you're done...?"
>Your last comment seems to pull the swordgazing student from her reverie. "Oh! Oh, sorry!" She steps back.
>"Yes, of course. I won't keep you if you have places you need to be." There is a distinct undercurrent of disappointment on her face nonetheless. "Can I get your name, at least? And you will be back to show this to the professor... right?"
-
>"I certainly hope so."
>Start wrapping the blade again.
>"Name's Nazrin. I'll be in town at least until tomorrow afternoon sometime. If I haven't found Marisa by then, I may have to make other arrangements."
-
>"I certainly hope so."
>Start wrapping the blade again.
>"Name's Nazrin. I'll be in town at least until tomorrow afternoon sometime. If I haven't found Marisa by then, I may have to make other arrangements."
>She smiles brightly. "Great!"
>You start to wrap the blade once more.
>"Oh." She sags a little. "Well, I'll try to get a response from her before then, anyway. Is it okay if I leave a message for you with the guild?"
-
>"That'd be perfect."
>Stick out our hand to shake hers. "Come to think of it, though, I never caught your name."
-
>"That'd be perfect."
>Stick out our hand to shake hers. "Come to think of it, though, I never caught your name."
>"Sasha Graves," she says, accepting the handshake with a smile and a polite nod. "It was nice to meet you."
-
>"Likewise."
>May as well head back to the guildhall, see if we can rustle up some grub.
>But before we do, stop by the woman at the counter, and ask if Marisa's been in today.
-
>"Likewise."
>May as well head back to the guildhall, see if we can rustle up some grub.
>But before we do, stop by the woman at the counter, and ask if Marisa's been in today.
>"Good luck finding Marisa," she says as you depart.
>You start to head back to the guildhall, but decide to first inquire about Marisa with the receptionist of the Brass Lantern. Unfortunately, while she does actually recognize her description without much prompting, she claims not to have seen her recently. You thank her and exit the inn, making your way south to the guildhall.
>It is a short and uneventful trip through the quieting market. Despite idle hopes, you see no streaks of color and starlight through the night air that would tell of Marisa's presence. All is still and dark. You arrive at the guild without incident, your borrowed horse snorting just a little irately at you once you draw near to where you left it tethered earlier.
-
>"Don't worry, I'll have you situated soon. But I'm hungry as well."
>If we still have the apple we pocketed at Big Mama's Ichirin's, offer it to him.
-
>"Don't worry, I'll have you situated soon. But I'm hungry as well."
>If we still have the apple we pocketed at Big Mama's Ichirin's, offer it to him.
>The horse doesn't seem particular satisfied with this explanation.
>You do not. You took it for the road and indeed ate it along it. It was a long trip.
-
>"Well, all right. You DID get us here in good time, after all."
>Unhitch Hungry and head for the nearest stable we know to be open.
-
>"Well, all right. You DID get us here in good time, after all."
>Unhitch Hungry and head for the nearest stable we know to be open.
>You decide to get the horse straightened away first, unhitching it and heading for a stable towards the eastern edge of town, along the road to Easthaven. For her part, the horse seems glad to be moving somewhere, though without any of the vim and vigor of the journey in. Which is entirely understandable, of course. In this lazy pace, you make your way to the stables.
>The stables themselves are a long mostly-flat building, its exterior somewhat rough and with just enough light by the entrance to suggest it isn't closed entirely.
-
>Anyone outside we have to check in with, or do we just drive him inside and the negociate for parking?
-
>Anyone outside we have to check in with, or do we just drive him inside and the negociate for parking?
>Essentially the latter. There will be an attendant by the gate where you can lead the horse in.
-
>Wryly to the horse, "Think we'll find out wayward witch in HERE?"
>Onward to the attended gate.
-
>Wryly to the horse, "Think we'll find out wayward witch in HERE?"
>Onward to the attended gate.
>The horse snorts quietly.
>You drive onward to the gate. A middle-aged man looks up from his post at what is essentially a gatehouse as you draw near.
>"Evening to you," he says.
-
>Friendly nod for the man.
>"My friend here needs a place for a couple days."
-
>Friendly nod for the man.
>"My friend here needs a place for a couple days."
>"Fifteen guilders a day," he says, "and a flat 10 on top if we're minding the cart, too. Cash on pickup."
-
>Fifty guilders for two days? Is that standard?
>"Small hitch. Odds are, I won't be the one picking her up. She's on load from a helpful citizen of Easthaven."
-
>Fifty guilders for two days? Is that standard?
>"Small hitch. Odds are, I won't be the one picking her up. She's on load from a helpful citizen of Easthaven."
>You believe this would work out to 40 guilders, actually. It's a bit on the pricey side, but not outrageous. You think this place handles mostly short-term lodging, competing on its hours and location. There are probably better bargains to be found elsewhere in the city if one were planning to purchase a more extended stay.
>"Just give me the name," he says.
-
>Furnish the man with a name and description.
>This is probably Ichirin's influence at work here, but, "Don't suppose I could pay half now, for him?"
-
And yes, I realize this may be tantamount to 'charity', and may be a little out of character, but I looked at it as lingering influence from Ichirin, plus a bit of good PR when buddy comes into town and spreads word of our generousity.
That said, however, if anyone feels this is TOO out of character, do feel free to negate that comment of mine.
-
>Furnish the man with a name and description.
>This is probably Ichirin's influence at work here, but, "Don't suppose I could pay half now, for him?"
>You provide Kouichi's name and description. The attendant gives a somewhat idle-seeming nod.
>"Half of how much?" he says. "Can't say how much the charge is until you pick it up again."
-
>Ponder for a brief moment.
>"Well, if it's 25 for the cart and one night, I'll cover 12. He said he'd be in sometime tomorrow, so that'll do."
>And if he's late, that's on him, not us.
-
>Ponder for a brief moment.
>"Well, if it's 25 for the cart and one night, I'll cover 12. He said he'd be in sometime tomorrow, so that'll do."
>And if he's late, that's on him, not us.
>"Fine by me," he replies. "I'll put it against his bill."
>There's 'being nice' and then there's just being indulgent...
-
>Hand over the funds.
>Give the horse a pat on the side.
>"You ain't seen Marisa Kirisame round here today, have ya?" Provide a description if necessary.
-
>Hand over the funds.
>Give the horse a pat on the side.
>"You ain't seen Marisa Kirisame round here today, have ya?" Provide a description if necessary.
>You give the man 12 guilders. You now have 463 remaining.
>Then you give the horse a pat on the side. It shifts about a little.
>He shakes his head. "Not by this way, anyhow."
-
>Yeah, THERE'S a surprise.
Still, never know when she might have the craving for stablegirl.
>"Thanks, anyway."
>Back to the guildhall and whatever grub we can scavenge within.
-
>Yeah, THERE'S a surprise. Still, never know when she might have the craving for stablegirl.
>"Thanks, anyway."
>Back to the guildhall and whatever grub we can scavenge within.
>Well, it is a fairly populous city and even Marisa doesn't go around blowing it up on any everyday basis.
>He gives a curt disinterested nod.
>You dismount the cart and the attendant gets up to lead it inward. Then you make your way back to the guildhall; regardless of whatever you do or do not find tonight, you still need food. The trip is not unlike the trip out was, albeit quieter and less bumpy.
>As you make your way out of Eastmarket, a flash of motion across the still night sky catches your eye. You glance in time to see something streak quickly past in the distance for just a moment before it becomes obscured by interposing buildings.
-
>Which was was it going, and what's in that direction?
>What did it look like?
-
>Which was was it going, and what's in that direction?
>What did it look like?
>It was hard to tell exactly, from what little you saw. It was heading north, certainly. Perhaps also a little west, though that is harder to tell. This would put it in the direction of the oni quarter, or possible the harbor or warehouse district.
>A thin streak of brightness and motion. It was too far away and too brief to get a clear look at it.
-
>Follow that light, as near as we can determine its course.
-
>Follow that light, as near as we can determine its course.
>You adjust your course to follow the general direction you saw the light moving towards. Your angle north of the path to the guild, working your way towards the habour and industrial areas. Unfortunately, you don't really know where you're going and the light was certainly traveling faster than you are, to say nothing of its route being unimpeded by buildings and twisting streets. A minute or two passes without any further sight of it, and you find yourself uncertain how best to proceed.
-
>Pause for a moment and listen for sounds of magical discharge, explosions,
or Marisa-induced orgasms.
-
>Pause for a moment and listen for sounds of magical discharge, explosions, or Marisa-induced orgasms.
>For better or worse, you hear none of these things. From the north, you can hear the boisterous noise of the oni revels, and closer by you hear more subdued sounds of scattered people milling. None of it sounds particularly out of place.
-
Was worth a shot, guys.
>Once again, back to the guildhall for foods.
-
>Once again, back to the guildhall for foods.
>You decide not to attempt to pursue any further, and turn back towards the guildhall.
>Probably no more than 30 seconds pass before you hear something cutting through the air in the distance above and behind you.
-
>Have a look thata way.
-
>Have a look thata way.
>You turn around and look towards the sky. Unfortunately, the proximity of the buildings around you prevents you from seeing what it is at this distance; it clearly isn't traveling very high. Wait! As you back up, something comes into sight from behind a cluster of buildings well to the northwest, tracking eastward - a small white and black figure sheathed in a subtle wake of light. You're almost certain it's Marisa, flying swiftly. Unfortunately, she also isn't traveling quite in your direction....
-
>So we'll travel in hers.
>Bawl out to her as well, and wave if we think we can see her.
-
>So we'll travel in hers.
>Bawl out to her as well, and wave if we think we can see her.
>This is easier said than done with the buildings in the way. You're not even sure where she's headed; none of the most obvious points of interest are in that direction.
>You cry out loudly to Marisa, drawing a startled meep from a nearby fairy. Unfortunately the witch it was intended for doesn't appear to have heard you, nor does she seem to be looking in your direction. Her current trajectory looks like it will reach its nearest point to you in a handful of seconds before jetting past to the southeast.
-
>Call out to her again.
>Grab something and throw it in her general direction.
-
>Call out to her again.
>Grab something and throw it in her general direction.
>You shout out again, this time sending the frazzled fairy flying in the opposite direction. Marisa still shows no sign of noticing you. Stupid human hearing... Though, to be fair, the wind is probably making a pretty loud noise in her ears at the moment.
>Your immediate vicinity does not present any especially suited things to throw. There is standing sign not far away, and a few small flower pots by a storefront, as well as what looks like an empty cardboard box, dirty and partially flattened.
-
>Throw the bloody fairy at her.
>Throw Lancer at her.
>Throw the bit of quartz in front of her.
>And shout again. Just because.
-
>Throw the bloody fairy at her.
>Throw Lancer at her.
>Throw the bit of quartz in front of her.
>And shout again. Just because.
>"Ah!" she cries, fleeing faster "Get the screaming madlady away from meeeee!"
>You unleash your noble phantasm, Gae Inbh?artach: Whereas Gae Bolg reverses cause and effect, you will instead reverse projectile and launcher! Behold and tremble before the awesome power of bemused airborne Irishmen!
>In lieu of more fanciful options, you instead quickly pull the piece of quartz out of your pack and hurl it towards Marisa's path. The small rock sails smoothly through the air and... dammit, why does she have to be so far away! Youkai or no, you simply don't have the arm strength to get the quartz anywhere near to crossing her path.
>So you shout some more. Maybe this time she'll even hear you? A balding middle-aged man emerges from a store next to you as you do so, casting you a simultaneously curious and disapproving look.
-
>So tired of chasing that mage's ass...
>Fine, then, follow her as best as we can.
-
>So tired of chasing that mage's ass...
>Fine, then, follow her as best as we can.
>This thought strikes you as somehow ironic, given who you're dealing with...
>With an irritated grumble, you start to chase after her trajectory as best you can. However, before you've moved far, you note her swing off to the side. She seems to be coming around.
-
>Well at least it's good to see her still in town. That's at least one worry less.
>Pause and wait to see where she's going next.
>Make a note to replace that quartz later.
-
>Well at least it's good to see her still in town. That's at least one worry less.
>Make a note to replace that quartz later.
>Proof that she hasn't disappeared entirely is indeed a relief.
>You make a mental note. It may only have been a rock, but its a shame to simply hurl one's possessions over rooftops.
>Pause and wait to see where she's going next.
>You stop and watch as Marisa swerves her broom and dives towards your location, covering the distance between the two of you in an utterly unnecessary time frame. She pulls up sharply as she nears the ground, smoothly dismounting from a landing that, by rights, should have put her face-first into a nearby wall. Even after the time you spent together, you're still not sure how she manages it, to say nothing of why she manages it. However, her form this time is different from her standard recklessness. On her face is none of the wry cheer or cavalier confidence that seems so perpetual for her. She is grim and utterly serious. On her, the effect is rather unsettling, in fact.
>For a moment, she merely stares at you like that, saying nothing, barely so much as moving a facial muscle. It's almost as is she were staring at something far more horrific than your own countenance, and simply couldn't find the words.
>"I got your note," she says at last. Even her voice sounds heavy, for once devoid of any frivolity.
-
>Has she ever stabbed right to the heart of a matter like that?
>Forget the quip we were about to toss off.
>"Then I'm glad you found me so soon. When Honey told me you weren't home, I was worried you'd gone off somewhere."
-
>Has she ever stabbed right to the heart of a matter like that?
>Forget the quip we were about to toss off.
>"Then I'm glad you found me so soon. When Honey told me you weren't home, I was worried you'd gone off somewhere."
>You've known Marisa to sometimes stab at the heart of things without even seeming to do so deliberately, the flippant ease of her remarks making it seem almost incidental. But now? Perhaps this simply hits closer to home.
>You decide to respond in kind.
>"Nowhere far," she says. "What can I do?"
-
>"Help finish what I started. Without you, the people of Easthaven may be in even more deadly danger than me."
>"I found spiders there, Mari. Giant spiders, some only half as tall as me, some nearly as big as a horse. Every one of them dangerous. They'd started taking cows for food, and it's only a matter of time before they start on people. The villagers can defend themselves for now, but from what I saw, it may only be a matter of time before they get overwhelmed. They need help, Mari. Help I couldn't give them under the best of circumstances, and you're the best person I know can handle it. The only person I completely trust to be able to handle the spiders."
>Try not to think of a horde of arachnids descending upon Ichirin's, Minoriko's, and all the people... Then try not to shudder.
>"But that's only half the story."
-
>"Help finish what I started. Without you, the people of Easthaven may be in even more deadly danger than me."
>"I found spiders there, Mari. Giant spiders, some only half as tall as me, some nearly as big as a horse. Every one of them dangerous. They'd started taking cows for food, and it's only a matter of time before they start on people. The villagers can defend themselves for now, but from what I saw, it may only be a matter of time before they get overwhelmed. They need help, Mari. Help I couldn't give them under the best of circumstances, and you're the best person I know can handle it. The only person I completely trust to be able to handle the spiders."
>Try not to think of a horde of arachnids descending upon Ichirin's, Minoriko's, and all the people... Then try not to shudder.
>"But that's only half the story."
>You start to explain that current dangers facing Easthaven, all the while scrupulously avoiding considering the worst. It won't come to that; you're going to make sure it doesn't come to that. Marisa's expression is unwavering as she listens to you. If anything, it grows even more focused as you elaborate.
>"Keep going," she says.
-
>"There's a youkai down there, living with the spiders. I don't know if she's their leader, or if she just lives down there, but she's the bigger part of the reason I wanted to find you. I know you can handle the spiders, but I also know you can do this for me."
>"I want you to bring her out of that cave, alive and intact, and deliver her to Ichirin."
>Better give her a moment to absorb that and react before we explain ourselves.
-
>"There's a youkai down there, living with the spiders. I don't know if she's their leader, or if she just lives down there, but she's the bigger part of the reason I wanted to find you. I know you can handle the spiders, but I also know you can do this for me."
>"I want you to bring her out of that cave, alive and intact, and deliver her to Ichirin."
>Better give her a moment to absorb that and react before we explain ourselves.
>You explain what you want Marisa to do with regard to the spider youkai, and then pause to gauge her reaction. In fact, she pays no obvious regard to this request at all, instead sliding immediately into a different question nearly as soon as you pause.
>"You said you had days to live, right?" she asks. "You said that, yeah?"
-
>"That's why I can't go back and finish this affair myself. I have to find a cure for myself, and no one in Easthaven knew of one. But I couldn't just abandon them while I was off saving my own neck. Not without getting some help for them."
-
>"That's why I can't go back and finish this affair myself. I have to find a cure for myself, and no one in Easthaven knew of one. But I couldn't just abandon them while I was off saving my own neck. Not without getting some help for them."
>"What happened?" she asks.
-
>Sigh. Things are gonna get complicated.
>"I was poisoned. Diseased. Maybe cursed, I couldn't get a straight answer on that, but whatever it is, it has no cure Minoriko knows of, and she's the expert in Easthaven. She wrangled a treatment for me, thanks to this sword here, but it's only temporary. As near as we can figure, I've got two weeks. Give or take a day. That doesn't mean there's not a cure out there; I just have to find it."
-
>Sigh. Things are gonna get complicated.
>"I was poisoned. Diseased. Maybe cursed, I couldn't get a straight answer on that, but whatever it is, it has no cure Minoriko knows of, and she's the expert in Easthaven. She wrangled a treatment for me, thanks to this sword here, but it's only temporary. As near as we can figure, I've got two weeks. Give or take a day. That doesn't mean there's not a cure out there; I just have to find it."
>Not that much hasn't been since you started on that damned job...
>Her features draw slightly tighter. "By what? Those spiders?"
-
>"....No. By the youkai."
-
>"....No. By the youkai."
>Marisa is silent for a few moments. "Ya think she can fix it too, then?"
-
>"I don't know. But I don't think she will. Not for me, she hates me. Really hates me, Mari. I've never seen so much hate in someone's eyes."
>"But whether she can or not, that's not why I want you to do this. Mari, I know this is gonna be hard to believe, but I want to turn her around. Give her a chance at the kind of life I've had."
-
>"I don't know. But I don't think she will. Not for me, she hates me. Really hates me, Mari. I've never seen so much hate in someone's eyes."
>"But whether she can or not, that's not why I want you to do this. Mari, I know this is gonna be hard to believe, but I want to turn her around. Give her a chance at the kind of life I've had."
>Marisa's expression remains grim and focused, almost as though she were trying to stare... something into submission through gaze alone. It's hard to even gauge her reaction with her like this. Then she lets out a soft chuckle, seemingly almost despite herself, and slowly shakes her head. "You're serious, aren't ya?"
-
>Offer a small, slightly sheepish grin. "Sounds crazy, doesn't it. But yeah. I'm serious."
-
>Offer a small, slightly sheepish grin. "Sounds crazy, doesn't it. But yeah. I'm serious."
>Marisa lets out another quiet chuckle and a hint of a smile softens the steel in her face. "I'd say you were gettin' soft if this weren't your first week on the job, Naz. But... if she really hates you that much, what makes you think it'll be any different for anyone else? You're not exactly a magnet for that kinda thing, y'know."
-
>That's more like our Mari.
>"It probably wouldn't be different for nearly anyone else, and for the same reason she hates me; because I killed a lot of spiders before I met her. Didn't have much choice in the matter, but she didn't want to hear my side. But you, Mari, have an edge on me there, an edge on anyone else I can think of. You're just about as powerful when you're not trying to kill things as you are when you're going all out. You can handle yourself with nonlethal means much better than... Well, maybe anyone else on the island. You can get to her without slaughtering your way through her friends, the way I had to, and not put yourself in a vulnerable state the way most others would."
-
>That's more like our Mari.
>"It probably wouldn't be different for nearly anyone else, and for the same reason she hates me; because I killed a lot of spiders before I met her. Didn't have much choice in the matter, but she didn't want to hear my side. But you, Mari, have an edge on me there, an edge on anyone else I can think of. You're just about as powerful when you're not trying to kill things as you are when you're going all out. You can handle yourself with nonlethal means much better than... Well, maybe anyone else on the island. You can get to her without slaughtering your way through her friends, the way I had to, and not put yourself in a vulnerable state the way most others would."
>It feels so much more normal to see her looking like that, and 'normal' is pretty much what you want most right about now.
>Marisa grins a little. "That just your way of sayin' I'm awesome? 'cuz it's okay; you can come right out and say it if you want."
>"But seriously, Naz," she adds before you can reply, the smile dropping from her face again. "What'd she do to you?"
-
>"As near as I can tell, this is her most dangerous trick. She released this black cloud at me, felt like I was breathing oil. I was stuck in a dead end at the time, so I had to go through it to get away from it. Except she pounced on me and trapped me in that damn cloud. That's what poisoned me. Ya gotta KO her before she can throw that at you."
-
>"As near as I can tell, this is her most dangerous trick. She released this black cloud at me, felt like I was breathing oil. I was stuck in a dead end at the time, so I had to go through it to get away from it. Except she pounced on me and trapped me in that damn cloud. That's what poisoned me. Ya gotta KO her before she can throw that at you."
>"Take her down fast." She nods. "Got it."
-
>"So... you'll do it? You'll take her to Ichirin's?"
-
>"So... you'll do it? You'll take her to Ichirin's?"
>She rubs the back of her head a little sheepishly. "Can't exactly let someone down when they're countin' on ya. Not like this."
>Then she gives you a serious look again. "What about you, though?"
-
>"I just have to find a way to beat that curse, it looks like."
-
>Offer her a grin of our own. "I'm a Seeker myself, yknow. If there's a cure to be found anywhere in the world, you can bet your ass I'm gonna find it."
>"I have a lead already, actually. 'least I think so. And that's this." Point at the sword with our tail. "This little baby is actually slowing the blight. That's what Minoriko called it, by the way. It can't stop it, but she said I'd be dead already if not for this thing. I've already spoken to one of the folks in town from the Academy, those archaeologist folks, and they might be able to tell me more. And if not them, then Rinnosuke gave me a list of other people I can talk to that might know this sword, or the power in it."
-
>"I just have to find a way to beat that curse, it looks like."
>Offer her a grin of our own. "I'm a Seeker myself, yknow. If there's a cure to be found anywhere in the world, you can bet your ass I'm gonna find it."
>She lets another grin crack through the seriousness of her expression - not as boundless and blithe as her usual fare, but a grin nonetheless. "That's the spirit! There's an answer for everything out there somewhere. Just gotta find it."
>"I have a lead already, actually. 'least I think so. And that's this." Point at the sword with our tail. "This little baby is actually slowing the blight. That's what Minoriko called it, by the way. It can't stop it, but she said I'd be dead already if not for this thing. I've already spoken to one of the folks in town from the Academy, those archaeologist folks, and they might be able to tell me more. And if not them, then Rinnosuke gave me a list of other people I can talk to that might know this sword, or the power in it."
>She nods. "Was chasing after the people that list, actually, when I saw ya down here. Did you..." She frowns a little. "Did you throw something at me?"
-
>"Well I had to get your attention somehow..."
What was that quartz, anyways?
-
>"Well I had to get your attention somehow..."
>"Lucky I saw it at all, really," she says. "Just a little flash of something in the corner of my eye. What was it, anyway?"
-
Remember when we had to light that torch back in thread 4? We kept the quartz after that.
>"Bit of quartz. I had to light a torch outside their cave, improvised that."
-
>"Bit of quartz. I had to light a torch outside their cave, improvised that."
>"Oh, huh." She pauses. "That the flashiest thing you could come up with?"
-
>"Well, I was in a bit of a hurry. Was all I had. Unless you'd rather have me huck a kunai at ya."
-
>"Well, I was in a bit of a hurry. Was all I had. Unless you'd rather have me huck a kunai at ya."
>"Well, if you think a little black thing'll show up better at night, don't let me stop ya." She grins a little. "I'll make sure the guild bills you for anyone it hits on the way down."
-
>"Now let's get back to something here. What'd you mean by 'chasing after the people on that list'? You talk to Rinnosuke tonight since I got back?"
-
>"Now let's get back to something here. What'd you mean by 'chasing after the people on that list'? You talk to Rinnosuke tonight since I got back?"
>"Well, your note didn't say where to find ya," she says. "You weren't home, either, so I tried the guild, right? Kourin was only half as stingy as usual. Gave me a couple suggestions on where to look; said he'd sent you after them. Just got back from the Brass Lantern myself, actually." She shrugs. "'course, no one there knew where you went, either. Probably shoulda tried squeezing the girl for more about what went down at the dig last week while I was there, but..." she trails off, looking a little self-conscious.
-
>"You were there? What did happen out there? She wouldn't tell me nothing, either."
-
>"You were there? What did happen out there? She wouldn't tell me nothing, either."
>"I was... what?" She gives you a funny look. "Hadn't gotten the chance to poke my nose out there yet, though I was kinda thinking I might. Too far for me to fly out on my own, and the Academy folks got a pretty tight grip on about the only sailor who knows the route. There's a reason it went undiscovered this long, yeah? But nah, I don't really know any more about it than what I already told you. Just rumors, and you know how they are sometimes. Though they did ship out a bunch of stuff from here yesterday, so I'm told. Too bad I didn't hear about it until it was all already gone; no way I'd have missed snooping around on that. Heard they did it all hush-hush. Makes ya wonder, don't it?" She gives you a bit of a sly smile.
-
>Press a hand to our chin.
>"Here's something else to wonder about, Mari. When I was talking to that woman back at the Lantern, she mentioned something about 'issues', and was quite emphatic that all the goods had been shipped out. And that's all she seemed willing to say."
-
>Press a hand to our chin.
>"Here's something else to wonder about, Mari. When I was talking to that woman back at the Lantern, she mentioned something about 'issues', and was quite emphatic that all the goods had been shipped out. And that's all she seemed willing to say."
>"Pretty tight-lipped for a student," she replies. "Almost sounds like they were worried someone would go off with the lot of them if they didn't move 'em quick. I wonder what it was..."
-
>"I've got a meeting lined up with one of the higher ups with the group, thanks to this sword here. I'm not banking on getting many details out of her, but ya never know what might turn up."
-
>"I've got a meeting lined up with one of the higher ups with the group, thanks to this sword here. I'm not banking on getting many details out of her, but ya never know what might turn up."
>She gives a little grin. "Make sure to pass anything interesting along, hey?"
-
>Drawl, "Well.... I suppose I'll consider it. For the right price, of course."
-
>Drawl, "Well.... I suppose I'll consider it. For the right price, of course."
>She actually manages to look hurt. "Hey now..."
-
>Chuckle heartily.
>"Aw, lighten up, Mari. Whatever comes outta this business, you'll be the first to know." More seriously, "Well, maybe second. If what this archaeoligist has to tell me leads to a cure, I'll want to get word to Ichirin as soon as I can. Wouldn't surprise me if there was a story there, before all's said and done."
>"Incidentally, you want to go somewhere for a bite? I haven't eaten a decent meal since breakfast, and there's more info I can give you about the spiders and their nest. Plus," grin "I wanna hear what you and Honey have been up to."
-
>Chuckle heartily.
>"Aw, lighten up, Mari. Whatever comes outta this business, you'll be the first to know." More seriously, "Well, maybe second. If what this archaeoligist has to tell me leads to a cure, I'll want to get word to Ichirin as soon as I can. Wouldn't surprise me if there was a story there, before all's said and done."
>"Incidentally, you want to go somewhere for a bite? I haven't eaten a decent meal since breakfast, and there's more info I can give you about the spiders and their nest. Plus," grin "I wanna hear what you and Honey have been up to."
>Marisa smiles ruefully and scratches her head. "Ha, that kid? Didn't figure she'd still be around, but... she kinda grows on ya. Got drive, I'll give her that. Not sure what else she's got, 'sides from baking a decent muffin, but she's got drive. And hey, it's like having your own pint-sized fanclub, too." She pokes a finger at you in light-hearted accusation. "Finally someone who gives me the respect I deserve, unlike some people I know. Whatever happened to 'teacher-knows-best', I tell ya."
>"But, well..." She frowns a little. "Think we really got time to sit and chat with all this stuff going on?"
-
>"Hey, a mouse gotta eat. But for you, well, that's up to you. I wasn't sure you'd want to head out to Easthaven tonight or wait till the morning. Night flying, and all that. Wouldn't want a stray bat to knock ya off your broom, would we."
-
>"That, and if you're gonna be heading into the Spider's Den, it's a good idea for you to have the info I didn't when I went in."
>"Ah yeah, she was the one who made the muffins right? I gotta agree with you on that, they are pretty nice."
-
>"Hey, a mouse gotta eat. But for you, well, that's up to you. I wasn't sure you'd want to head out to Easthaven tonight or wait till the morning. Night flying, and all that. Wouldn't want a stray bat to knock ya off your broom, would we."
>"It's the bats you should be worried for," she counters, grinning widely.
>"That, and if you're gonna be heading into the Spider's Den, it's a good idea for you to have the info I didn't when I went in."
>"Ah yeah, she was the one who made the muffins right? I gotta agree with you on that, they are pretty nice."
>"Won't say no to that much, if you got anything else you think I need to know."
>She nods. "It's a perk. Don't know if she'll ever pick up any of the other stuff, but I won't say no to someone cooking for me."
-
>"I got plenty info on the spiders, their house, and the youkai. I know you can handle yourself, Mari, but the more you know, the better. But as I'm sure you know, I 'brief' better on a full stomach."
-
>"I got plenty info on the spiders, their house, and the youkai. I know you can handle yourself, Mari, but the more you know, the better. But as I'm sure you know, I 'brief' better on a full stomach."
>"Well, your call," she replies, still looking a little reluctant.
-
>Head for the nearest place to eat that's open. That's affordable. Unless the guildhall's closer, then we go there.
-
>Head for the nearest place to eat that's open. That's affordable. Unless the guildhall's closer, then we go there.
>You wander along the streets in search of the nearest place to eat, not feeling in the mood to be especially picky. Much of the town is closed or closing at this time of night, but it's still not hard to find restaurants and even some shops open; youkai in particular have a tendency towards being active during the night.
>Soon enough you come up what appears to be fairly low-brow eatery, straddling that line between restaurant and bar without quite stepping over. You can smell the greasy scent of fried food coming from within, as well as sounds of brusk chatter. It isn't exactly the best fare, but you imagine it could fill you up.
-
>"That'll do."
>Enter and smell for what's cooking.
-
>"That'll do."
>Enter and smell for what's cooking.
>Marisa shrugs. "Eh, food's food when you're hungry."
>You step inside. It is a modestly small establishment, with a similarly modest occupancy, though the dim lighting and thick smells in the air give it a crowded feel. The decor actually seems rather well-maintained, though the color choices do little to lighten the atmosphere. Most of the seating is the form of wooden booths, stained dark and build back-to-back with each other. Utilitarian cushions in deep green tweed provide what you suppose someone might consider an accent. The smells of food are many, though 'fried' does seem to be a unifying theme. You can detect chicken and onion rings, potatoes in more than one form, fried rice, and what you think is actually tempura, among a few sweeter smells - you note a partially eaten fritter on someone's plate. The tone of conversation seems fairly boisterous for the size of the space, though you don't note any alcohol.
-
>It sure ain't Minoriko's, but it'll do.
>Grab an open seat.
-
>It sure ain't Minoriko's, but it'll do.
>Grab an open seat.
>This place has neither the succulent aromas nor the charm, but you're sure it's still edible.
>You go and seat yourself in an unoccupied booth and Marisa flops down across from you, propping her broom against the inside wall. In short order, a waitress makes her way over to your table. She appears to be a youkai, with a shock of fiery red hair tied in a short spiky ponytail. She is wearing a vest of finely-woven straw over a short-sleeved shirt, and her skin is slightly swarthy with an odd sheen to it. She flashes the pair of you a friendly, yet somehow impish grin.
>"Evenin'!" she says, dropping a pair of menus on your table.
-
>Well, the waitress is perky, that's always a plus.
>Give her a friendly nod. "How's it goin'?"
>"What's the house special this evening?"
Not gonna be around much the next couple days, comrades, I'm a bit unwell. Spent most of yesterday in bed, and that's probably where I'm going to spend the rest of today as well.
All I'd planned to do here was give Marisa the info we have on the spiders, their threat levels, and what we know of the geography of the cave. Once that's done, I see no reason to detain her here, if she wants to hit the road.
PS: If anyone can sneak a kiss from either our perky waitress or Mari, I'll give ya a gold star.
-
>Well, the waitress is perky, that's always a plus.
>Give her a friendly nod. "How's it goin'?"
>"What's the house special this evening?"
>Friendly is generally better than the inverse, certainly.
>"Not bad, not bad," she replies.
>"Chicken tempura and honey fried rice," she rhymes off briskly. "Plain or spicy; whatever grabs ya."
-
>"Go with the spicy tonight."
>Try to keep our sword out of the line of sight of the other patrons.
-
>"Go with the spicy tonight."
>Try to keep our sword out of the line of sight of the other patrons.
>She bares a sharp grin at you. "Regular spicy or 'Someone call a hydromancer' spicy?"
>You've been doing your best to be discreet, though there's really only so much you can do with something this size. That being said, the sight of someone bearing weapons is not that abnormal in Braston, and you imagine Kumokirimaru does not look especially hostile, wrapped as it is.
-
>Are we aware of anyone in Braston especially good at stealing swords, or weapons in general?
>Is our tongue/mouth especially sensitive to excessivly spicy foods?
-
>Are we aware of anyone in Braston especially good at stealing swords, or weapons in general?
>Is our tongue/mouth especially sensitive to excessivly spicy foods?
>You don't know of anyone specifically skilled in the art of weapon theft, though Marisa does have something of a reputation for 'borrowing' things that interest her, and perhaps even giving them back some day. Maybe. If you're lucky. Though, as far as you know, weapons of a physical nature don't tend to pique her interest particularly.
>No more excessively than most people's, you imagine.
-
>Make a note of the 'for the insane' version for when we're not as hungry.
>Offer her a chuckle at her metaphor. "Just the regular version, I think. Wouldn't want to wake up the neighbourhood, would we."
>Glance back at Marisa with a wry grin. "How's about you, Mari?"
-
>Make a note of the 'for the insane' version for when we're not as hungry.
>Offer her a chuckle at her metaphor. "Just the regular version, I think. Wouldn't want to wake up the neighbourhood, would we."
>Glance back at Marisa with a wry grin. "How's about you, Mari?"
>You make a note to come back and give the inferno version a try at some point in the future.
>"Speak for yourself," she counters, her grin somehow managing to look friendly and almost predatory at the same time.
>"Uh..." She casually flips the menu over, skimming through it. "Eh, I'll have a basket of onion rings, I guess."
>"One onion rings..." the waitress repeats. "And kinda-spicy-maybe chicken tempura. Anythin' else?"
-
>Skim the menu for drinks. And available mozza sticks.
-
>Skim the menu for drinks. And available mozza sticks.
>You skim the menu. There are indeed mozza sticks on the menu, in regular, extra-crispy, and super-crispy varieties. Drink selection isn't especially plentiful, but seem to run the regular sweep of milk, juice, coffee, and the like. The prices aren't... bad, as such. Not really a bargain, but nothing outrageous, either.
-
>"Order of mozza sticks as well, regular. And coffee. Black."
-
>"Order of mozza sticks as well, regular. And coffee. Black."
>The waitress nods. "Got it."
>"I'm good," Marisa adds, stemming off any further inquiry.
>The waitress nods again. "Right. Shouldn't be too long," she says, turning and striding away.
>After a moment's pause, Marisa leans back into her seat and stretches. "So...."
-
>Take a breath.
>"Right. The downlow on the enemy."
>Start with what we know about the spiders themselves.
-
>Take a breath.
>"Right. The downlow on the enemy."
>Start with what we know about the spiders themselves.
>Marisa nods, and you start in on providing the particulars: physical description of each of the spiders, their attacks and behavior patterns, and so forth. You attempt to keep relatively quiet, though the general noise level of the restaurant aids in being discreet. Marisa pays close attention while keeping a relaxed demeanor through most of it, whether out of her own casual confidence about the matter or for the sake of keeping up an unguarded bearing in public, you can't be certain. Knowing her, you'd be inclined to say it was mostly the former, though she seemed deadly serious about this business when you first met tonight.
>After a fairly short while, the waitress approaches bearing a tray laden with your respective orders.
>"Here you go!" she says, unloading its contents onto the table before you. First a modest mug of strong-smelling coffee, then a small basket of mozza sticks - looking plenty crispy for the lowest option on the scale - followed by a larger basket of onion rings, browned and similarly thickly battered. Then comes the tempura, its crunchy golden exterior repeating much the same theme as the previous items. The rice does have a nice aroma, though - a dash of sweet and tart upon a savory base.
>Marisa takes a look at the onion rings, reaches a hand out towards them, then stops and frowns, turning towards the waitress. "Uh, don't suppose I could get a glass of water or somethin'?"
>"Sure thing!" the youkai replies, heading back towards the kitchen.
-
>"Me too!" call after the waitress.
>Savor the smell of sweet, sweet mozza sticks for a moment.
>"I'd guess the acid spitters are the most dangerous ones for you, as I doubt the big one'sll even get close to you before you bowl em over. The spitters' acid travels pretty fast, even I had a devil of a time avoiding their shots, and believe me, it hurt. Whatever else is in range, you see onea those, trust me, you wanna take it down first."
-
>"Me too!" call after the waitress.
>Savor the smell of sweet, sweet mozza sticks for a moment.
>"I'd guess the acid spitters are the most dangerous ones for you, as I doubt the big one'sll even get close to you before you bowl em over. The spitters' acid travels pretty fast, even I had a devil of a time avoiding their shots, and believe me, it hurt. Whatever else is in range, you see onea those, trust me, you wanna take it down first."
>"Sure!" she calls back as she disappears out of sight.
>You take a moment to savor the smell of deep-fried cheese. A bit too deep-fried, perhaps. Still smells pretty good to empty stomach, though.
>"'sokay," Marisa says, grabbing an onion ring and biting down on it with a substantial audible crunch. She flashes you an almost aggravatingly confident grin. "I'm faster."
-
>The world'll stop spinning before you lose that confidance, Mari.
>Follow her example with a mozza stick.
>"Oh, before I forget. You were planning on heading out tonight, right?"
>Sip coffee.
-
>The world'll stop spinning before you lose that confidance, Mari.
>Follow her example with a mozza stick.
>"Oh, before I forget. You were planning on heading out tonight, right?"
>Sip coffee.
>Wait, it spins now?
>You take a bite of mozza stick. As you suspected, it is a touch heavy on the grease. But really, it's still pretty decent, and you're not about to be picky.
>"Well, there's kind of a hurry on all this, ain't there?" For a moment, you can see a touch of tension in her expression.
>You take a sip of coffee. Ooo... this is pretty strong.
-
>"Outside chance you might meet the Prismrivers, then, before they leave. See how their plan went. And yes, I realize time's a factor here, but I didn't want you flying blind, if I could help it. I didn't-"
>Pause and have another mozza stick.
>"If the Prismrivers are still there when you arrive, they might have more info for you that I don't, it's been better part of a day. And they had a plan to at least partially contain the spiders as well, just not sure how it turned out. And even if they don't, town council would know. Worth checking in with them before you head up the mountain."
-
>"Outside chance you might meet the Prismrivers, then, before they leave. See how their plan went. And yes, I realize time's a factor here, but I didn't want you flying blind, if I could help it. I didn't-"
>Pause and have another mozza stick.
>"If the Prismrivers are still there when you arrive, they might have more info for you that I don't, it's been better part of a day. And they had a plan to at least partially contain the spiders as well, just not sure how it turned out. And even if they don't, town council would know. Worth checking in with them before you head up the mountain."
>"Just 'cause I can't see in the dark like you guys doesn't mean I need to worry about it being dark, y'know." She gives a casual snap of her fingers and a brief point of starlight flares above them for a moment.
>You grab another mozza stick and chomp down.
>Marisa nods. "Right."
>At this point, the waitress reappears at your table, bearing two tall glasses of water. "Here you go," she says, putting one next to each of you. "Enjoy!"
-
>"Thanks."
>Have a go at that rice.
>"Speaking of dark, that brings me to the next issue: spider-home geography."
>Wonder if she ever had to improvise a torch before she became as accomplashied a mage as she is. Have to ask that one day.
-
>"Thanks."
>Have a go at that rice.
>"Speaking of dark, that brings me to the next issue: spider-home geography."
>Wonder if she ever had to improvise a torch before she became as accomplashied a mage as she is. Have to ask that one day.
>"Yeah, thanks," Marisa echoes. The waitress nods to the pair of you, and then moseys off to the next customer.
>You dig into the rice. It's actually pretty good. In fact, you would venture to say that it's more satisfyingly prepared than the deep-fried cheese, despite suffering from the obvious problem of involving less cheese.
>"Knock yourself out," Marisa says. "Oh, and help yourself to an onion ring if you want. I just had supper a couple hours back; not too hungry."
>You're inclined to doubt it. As you understand it, light spells tend to be fairly elementary, even for those magicians whose specialization doesn't lend itself so directly towards it as Marisa's. Simple magical light sources usable by a somewhat more general audience aren't particularly hard to come by, either, if you're looking for one.
-
>"Don't mind if I do."
>Pilfer an onion ring.
>Fill our comrade in on the parts of the spider cave we experienced, including where we thought the 'feeding ground' was.
-
>"Don't mind if I do."
>Pilfer an onion ring.
>Fill our comrade in on the parts of the spider cave we experienced, including where we thought the 'feeding ground' was.
>You snag an onion ring and take a bite. Hmmm... all the frying of the mozza sticks with none of the cheese. You suppose they're not bad if you go for this sort of thing, but it's not too much to your taste.
>As you continue to work your way through your meal, you explain the cavern geography in as precise detail as you can. For most of your journey in, this is quite specific, though you can understandably cover only so much about the parts you crawled through blind or half-delirious. Marisa seems rather less attentive for this portion of your exposition, or at least appears to drift off between descriptions of particular points of interest. To be perfectly honest, you're... not entirely confident in the sharpness of her sense of direction. During your time together, you were inclined more than once to think she managed some of her missions through sheer dumb luck and persistence. Or maybe she just makes it look that way? It's certainly never stopped her from managing to get things done, at any rate.
>In what feels like a surprisingly short length of time, you find yourself nearing the end of your meal. Not among your favorites, but it still had some good points. Greasy aftertaste notwithstanding, you're feeling considerably more sated.
-
>"So you got all of that, right?"
-
>"So you got all of that, right?"
>She gives a little nod. "Yup, got it."
-
>"Make sure you watch for the really little ones. It's possible that both the other egg holes I found have all hatched by now."
>"I know you like flying by the seat of your pants, Mari, and this sort of thing is hardly beyond you. I just wanted you to know what you were getting into."
-
>"Make sure you watch for the really little ones. It's possible that both the other egg holes I found have all hatched by now."
>"I know you like flying by the seat of your pants, Mari, and this sort of thing is hardly beyond you. I just wanted you to know what you were getting into."
>Marisa grimaces a little. "Ehhhh...."
>She nods. "I know, I know; nasty place and all. But don't you worry about a thing. I got this." She flashes you a confident smile.
-
>Chuckle softly. Have a swallow of coffee, then offer her a wry grin.
>"Don't suppose you wanna know what else the youkai can do, other than spit black clouds of doom?"
-
>Chuckle softly. Have a swallow of coffee, then offer her a wry grin.
>"Don't suppose you wanna know what else the youkai can do, other than spit black clouds of doom?"
>You chuckle and take a swig of what little coffee remains.
>"Well, she's a spider, so I guess she does the whole web thing." Marisa wiggles her hands in the air for emphasis. "But sure, knock yourself out."
-
>"Web indeed."
>Describe her cocooning thing she did on the bridge, her ability to throw boulders at us, sprouting extra limbs, and the surprisingly useful trick she pulled with throwing our own kunai and reeling it back in to throw again. Have to remember to try that ourselves one day.
>"I hurt her pretty good, but if she heals as fast as I do, she may near full strength again, albeit down half a limb."
-
>"Web indeed."
>Describe her cocooning thing she did on the bridge, her ability to throw boulders at us, sprouting extra limbs, and the surprisingly useful trick she pulled with throwing our own kunai and reeling it back in to throw again. Have to remember to try that ourselves one day.
>"I hurt her pretty good, but if she heals as fast as I do, she may near full strength again, albeit down half a limb."
>You describe the range of abilities and tactics that the spider youkai demonstrated over the course of your encounter, polishing off the last of your meal in the process.
>"Gonna take more than eight to save her," Marisa responds, grinning widely.
>At this point, the waitress reappears beside your table. "Can I get you two anything else?" she asks, glancing at the empty dishes.
>"Nah, I'm good," Marisa replies, leaning back into her booth and stretching her arms behind her.
-
>Are we still hungry? And what's our bill up to?
-
>Are we still hungry? And what's our bill up to?
>Not too hungry, no; there was no shortage of bulk to your meal, at least. You hadn't been specifically tallying up all the items. You think you're probably up to around 7 guilders or so.
-
>"Yeah, think I'm good myself.
How much for a slice of you, though?"
-
>"Yeah, think I'm good myself. How much for a slice of you, though?"
>"Great," she says, nodding. "I'll be right back with your bill." And with that, she dashes off again.
>She smirks. "If you ain't brave enough for those 'inferno-in-your-mouth' wings, you ain't brave enough to try me!"
-
>"This's probably occured to you too, but, it might be best to leave Honey out of this. Not sure she's up to taking on giant arachnids yet. Well, granted, she probably wouldn't be in THAT much danger, provided she doesn't stray too away from you, but still. She might be too enthusiastic for her own good."
-
>"This's probably occured to you too, but, it might be best to leave Honey out of this. Not sure she's up to taking on giant arachnids yet. Well, granted, she probably wouldn't be in THAT much danger, provided she doesn't stray too away from you, but still. She might be too enthusiastic for her own good."
>Marisa shrugs. "Eh, not like anything could really leave a mark on her that'd stick. Actually mightn't mind lettin' her see the real thing, if I could. Be a good lesson to her, and heck, she'd probably even enjoy the light show." She smiles a little. "Kinda moot, though. There's no way she could keep up on the way in; if I'm goin' tonight, I'm goin'."
>The waitress dashes back to your table. "Your bill," she says, depositing said item on the table.
-
>"Ah, yes, the other side of dining."
>What's the damage?
-
>"Ah, yes, the other side of dining."
>What's the damage?
>"Gotta earn a livin' somehow," the waitress replies. "Can't all make our way findin' treasure or what-not you people do."
>Marisa chuckles. "Most of them can't either," she says, giving the youkai a pointed smirk. "Trust me."
>The bill appears to come to 8 guilders, 2 of which were for Marisa's order.
-
>Chuckle at Marisa. "But they damn sure try. Bet you got some stories of folks that came before."
>Pony up the dough.
-
>Chuckle at Marisa. "But they damn sure try. Bet you got some stories of folks that came before."
>Pony up the dough.
>"Oh, a few," she replies. "But the ones that don't get too far usually aren't half as fun to tell. Now if you want a real story..." She leaves the sentence hanging, but the supremely smug bearing of her grin is just a little off-putting.
>You produce the required coinage and hand it to the waitress, who checks it over, then pockets it and nods. "Hope the two o' you enjoyed yer meal."
-
>"Hit the spot."
>Refrain from jabbing Marisa in the ribs. "Save it for when you get back into town, Mari. We both of us got places to be."
-
>"Hit the spot."
>Refrain from jabbing Marisa in the ribs. "Save it for when you get back into town, Mari. We both of us got places to be."
>The waitress flashes you a smile. "Great! Hope to see you again sometime."
>Marisa nods, a more serious expression settling on her face. "Right."
>"Well, you two have a nice night now!" the waitress says, turning and giving you a little wave as she sets off towards another table.
-
>"You as well."
>Stand and, with Marisa, depart.
-
>"You as well."
>Stand and, with Marisa, depart.
>"Thanks!" she calls back, before turning to the new customer, a short fairy with a fierce expression on her face - her head barely crests the table's edge with her seated.
>You stand and make your way out of the restaurant, Marisa taking her broom and following along after you. As you step out into the cool night air, you hear a tiny determined voice cry out from the restaurant behind you: "Make my mouth explode!"
-
>There's nothing for that but to break out laughing.
-
>There's nothing for that but to break out laughing.
>You burst into laughter at the fairy's declaration and Marisa cracks up right alongside you.
>"Oh man..." she says after a few moments, nearly having to catch her breath. "I'm almost tempted to stay just to see it happen."
-
>"Onea the first things I'm doing once I beat this blight, I'm comin' back here to hear what happened."
>Glance back at the door, then grin at Marisa. "Three guilders says she can take it and wows the whole damn crowd."
-
>"Onea the first things I'm doing once I beat this blight, I'm comin' back here to hear what happened."
>Glance back at the door, then grin at Marisa. "Three guilders says she can take it and wows the whole damn crowd."
>"You really got a soft spot for the little ones, don't ya? Wouldn't have pegged you the type." Then she flashes you a grin. "Ten says it's a hilarious disaster."
-
>"We do have to look out for each other."
>A bit more serious tone. "But, a bit more on topic, Marisa. I want you to promise me something about this spider youkai."
-
>"We do have to look out for each other."
>A bit more serious tone. "But, a bit more on topic, Marisa. I want you to promise me something about this spider youkai."
>"Ha!" She gives you a friendly fist-bump on the shoulder.
>"Just name it," she says, returning your tone.
-
>"Two things, really. The first one you already know, try to leave her...reasonably intact. That could have been me, in another life, stupidly fighting against the world. The other, well...crush her decisively. Don't leave her any illusion that she could have ever stood a chance if she had done something differently, that she or any of her spiders had a prayer of taking you down. She has to understand she can't win against the world, no matter how strong she might be. Don't give her any openings, don't let her taunt you, don't let her lay a finger or a web or a rock or anything on you. Just ruin anything and everything she tries. And don't let her get you into tight places."
-
>"Two things, really. The first one you already know, try to leave her...reasonably intact. That could have been me, in another life, stupidly fighting against the world. The other, well...crush her decisively. Don't leave her any illusion that she could have ever stood a chance if she had done something differently, that she or any of her spiders had a prayer of taking you down. She has to understand she can't win against the world, no matter how strong she might be. Don't give her any openings, don't let her taunt you, don't let her lay a finger or a web or a rock or anything on you. Just ruin anything and everything she tries. And don't let her get you into tight places."
>Marisa nods, a determined look on her face. "It's a promise!"
-
>"And... take care of yourself, Mari. I don't want you to end up like me, not on something I asked you to do."
-
>"And... take care of yourself, Mari. I don't want you to end up like me, not on something I asked you to do."
>"Ha!" She throws her head back with a triumphant grin. "Don't you worry about a thing. Not gonna let some spider do me in; still way too young for that."
>Then she fixes you with a suddenly serious expression. "And you're not gonna either, got it?"
-
>Mock expression of surprise.
>"Marisa, I thought you knew me well enough by now."
>Flip back to our usual roguish grin.
>"As if I'd go down that easily without a fight!"
-
>Mock expression of surprise.
>"Marisa, I thought you knew me well enough by now."
>Flip back to our usual roguish grin.
>"As if I'd go down that easily without a fight!"
>"'course not," she replies, an uncharacteristically tentative smile on her face. "Just... as your mentor, I'm gonna be real disappointed in you if you don't find what you're looking for, ya hear? Got a reputation to think of."
-
>Give her a pat on the shoulder.
>"I hear ya, Mari. I hear ya. We'll see each other again."
-
>Give her a pat on the shoulder.
>"I hear ya, Mari. I hear ya. We'll see each other again."
>You give Marisa a pat on the shoulder. Her confident expression barely wavers.
>"Damn right we will!" she cries, then hops onto her broom and swings around. "And mind I'm tellin' ya." She gives a quick wave over her shoulder.
>And with that, she takes off like a shot, blowing wind and dust across your face. Looking up, you see a streak of colored light tearing eastward through the sky.
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>"Give em hell, Mari. Give em hell."
>Well, that's a relief. Easthaven'll be safe now. And now we can focus on our own problems.
>Produce Rinosuke's list and see who, if any, would likely be awake at this time. And if any of them are, start running down those leads in search of answers.
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>"Give em hell, Mari. Give em hell."
>Well, that's a relief. Easthaven'll be safe now. And now we can focus on our own problems.
>Produce Rinosuke's list and see who, if any, would likely be awake at this time. And if any of them are, start running down those leads in search of answers.
>You utter a final parting word to Marisa; there's no doubt at all in your mind that she can. Though it brings you once again back to the more... personal of your problems.
>You produce the list Rinnosuke gave you earlier and scan down through it. Given that you are not personally acquainted with anyone on it, you can't really say who'd be awake at this hour. Though given that they're physicians and healers, you expect many are not unaccustomed to being woken for emergencies.
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>Well, start at the top, and go from there.
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>Well, start at the top, and go from there.
>You start with the first address on the list and make your way across town. Knocking on the door of a modest, but well-appointed dwelling, you are answered by a soft-spoken elderly man in thin-rimmed glasses. He invites you inside and listens attentively to your tale, then examines the black markings on your flesh with a look of quiet concern. Unfortunately, he readily admits that he does not recognize these particular symptoms, nor does what you have to say about their origin ring familiar. Offering you a cup of tea, he takes quite some minutes to pour through a small collection of tomes on disease and related lore. Unfortunately, when he reemerges from his study, it is with a heavy look on face. In a regretful tone, he informs you that he can find no further reference within them which might aid you. Stating that he cannot in good conscience prescribe any medicine for a disease he does not understand, he instead recommends that you visit another healer in town who happens to dabble in magic, in the hope that her knowledge might be more in line with the unusual taint you bear. He apologizes again as you depart, wishing you success in your search and promising that he will contact you if he comes upon any information which might be useful.
>You decide to try this other healer he mentioned first before continuing down Rinnosuke's list. Even as you approach her house, you can detect a pungent whiff of alchemical reagents from within, and are nearly blasted by it as she opens the door in response to your knocking. She is a tall dark-haired woman dressed in an outfit whose trappings are suggestive of her involvement with the arcane. Unfortunately, her bearing is nearly the opposite of the previous physician's: cool, almost dismissive and with a certain subtle haughtiness that you find gets quickly under your skin. Nonetheless, she takes you inside what appears to double as a small dispensary for who-knows-what concoctions, and takes a look at you. Her face is fairly impassive as you show her the Blight, and then she performs a few simple diagnostic spells on you. A small spell circle etches itself into the air and ripples of soft green light sweep across you from it, leaving a tingling sensation in their wake. She frowns in concentration as she works the magic and when it is complete, declares that the disease within you is indeed both exotic and potent - a useless statement at this point, if ever you heard one - and that no ordinary remedy could possibly suffice. Fortunately, at least as she explains it, she deals in medicines empowered by arcane knowledge, which are capable of combating disease with an effectiveness that traditional cures cannot match. While she admits that your affliction is beyond the usual range of her stock remedies, she offers to craft one tailored specifically to this Blight that holds fast within you... for a price.
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I STRONGLY suspect this isn't going to work, and that our money would be better spent elsewhere. No way in Hades solving this problem is gonna be this simple. But finding out what she's charging, and how much time's involved, couldn't hurt, I suppose.
>"What kinda price we talkin' here?"
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>"What kinda price we talkin' here?"
>She gives a thoughtful frown. "It will be difficult," she replies, "And time-consuming. This is no ordinary disease and no ordinary spell will be sufficient. For more common ailments, I have a range of general enchantments that are effective, but this will require surgical precision in the spell weaved to counter it. I cannot rightly say how much it will ultimately cost to devise before I have even begun, since while I am experienced at this art, each disease of this rank presents its own unique challenges. Let us say, perhaps..." She pauses for a moment, considering. "100 guilders as an estimate, though I cannot promise that is all it will be. I will do my very best to see that it is, but I cannot see the future."
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One wonders if Nazrin might not consider this blackmail?
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I do not take your meaning. Clarify, please.
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"I am dying."
"Give me mad bank or I will purposefully let you die when I have the means to prevent it."
Seems like blackmail to me!
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Well put. And that's assuming she even CAN cure this, which I still doubt.
All the more reason why we ought to wish her well, and take leave of her. Either that or mug her and rob the place, but either way, no way we should drop that kinda scratch here.
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I recommend the stress-snapped angle!
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Hold on. Even if it is unlikely, an option is an option. I'd recommend we say that we'll consider her offer, then look around to see if we can't find a better one.
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I suppose it's not IMpossible that missy here may be our one shot here. I'm still banking on something coming out of our meeting with Keine tomorrow, but if that doesn't pan out, I supoose we shouldn't burn our bridges behind us. At least not at this point.
>Twitch.
>But take a moment to ponder nonetheless. On the one hand, 's a lot of money. On the other hand, might save us. On the other other hand, she might simply be trying to take us, and we hate paying for something that's at best a 'maybe', especially from a source we barely know.
>"Thank you for the offer. I'll take it under consideration. I still have some more information to gather first, you understand."
>When she's not looking at us, glance around the place to see what of value's in sight.
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>Twitch.
>But take a moment to ponder nonetheless. On the one hand, 's a lot of money. On the other hand, might save us. On the other other hand, she might simply be trying to take us, and we hate paying for something that's at best a 'maybe', especially from a source we barely know.
>"Thank you for the offer. I'll take it under consideration. I still have some more information to gather first, you understand."
>When she's not looking at us, glance around the place to see what of value's in sight.
>You twitch. The woman's demeanor doesn't leave you particularly enamored of her, and you find yourself unconvinced that she has a real answer when everyone else so far has been utterly stymied. And it'll cost you plenty, either way. That being said, she clearly has at least some skill in this art and the man who directed you here seemed educated and well-meaning, even if her work is outside his domain. It may be a solid chunk of change, but money's not much good to you if you're dead....
>"I'm sure I don't need to impress upon you that time is of the essence in this matter," she says. "It will take at least a few days to craft the counter-magics, and I cannot begin without your cooperation. I do not mean to speak vainly, but I assure you that no one else in Braston is capable of this. Still, I understand your position," she adds, softening just a little. "You are a Seeker, after all. Searching is a way of life for your kind, and it is not within my right to gainsay you this. I ask simply that you do not put yourself in further harm because of it."
>She has been keeping a fairly sharp eye on you nearly the entire time you've been here, but you've managed to discretely appraise some of the room nonetheless. It is a relatively small space, fairly clearly designed to see customers. There are several display shelves stocked with a variety of small bottles and decanters containing liquids in an array of colors. Many appear to be labeled, though you're too far away to read any of them. No doubt they are responsible for some of the jumble of pungent smells in this place, though you suspect there are more active reactions occurring elsewhere in the building. Aside from the potions, there is also a small assortment of what you believe are minor magical trinkets, perhaps another form of remedy or a sort of charm to ward against disease. You can judge only by the woman's words and her line of work: in truth, they could probably be designed for any number of completely different purposes and you wouldn't be able to tell without some investigation. Your treasure sense buzzes faintly from the environment; there are at least a few things of some value nearby, though nothing strikes it sharply.
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>Hm. Maybe she ain't so bad. Either that, or she knows how to play folks. But we'll keep her in mind if our other leads dry up.
>"Well, I thank you for your time. And your concern, as well, I appreciate it."
>Assuming she doesn't stop us, depart and continue running down leads.
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>Speaking of lead, pop a cap in Orange
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>How many guilders do we currently have?
>Revive Orange with the power of LOVE.
>Pull Lancer down from the sky and ravish her.
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>Speaking of lead, pop a cap in Orange
>You quickly scoop up a lead-sealed bottle from the shelf and give it a vigorous shake, the liquid within roiling and fizzing.
>"Hey, Naz, I was just- bwah!"
>An explosive reaction from within the bottle sends the stopper flying free with a loud popping sound. It strikes your poor unfortunate friend right between the eyes, sending her toppling backwards and onto the floor in typical spastic fashion.
>Revive Orange with the power of LOVE.
>Thinking quickly (or perhaps not at all), you grab a second bottle labeled 'LOVE' and dump the contents into Orange's mouth in one go, in the hope that it will revive her. She starts coughing.
>"You simpleton!" the proprietor cries, rushing over to you. "Do you have any idea what you've done?!"
>Orange's eyes glaze over and she looks up at you dreamily.
>"Oh Nazrin..." she says, her voice languid. "Oh, my dear sweat Nazrin, whose face even even angels would weep at the beauty of. If I am to die here, I will have lived more for each moment I have spent in your presence than whole lifetimes spent without. I ask only that, unworthy as I am to gaze upon you, you permit me to stay with you until that end."
>Pull Lancer down from the sky and ravish her.
>Unfortunately, the power of Gae Inbh?artach has launched Lancer beyond the furthest reaches of the sky. You're on your own with this mess. Or, uh, perhaps not quite on your own if those hands clasped fast around yours have anything to say about it. Oh dear lord...