> Well, that's boring. At least Patchouli will get a souvenir out of this.
> Make sure the gems and scroll are stored somewhere not easy to see at a glance, and then pull out Ran's Talisman and light it with the candle.
>Head on through!
>Blow it out.
>"Ah... good news. I didn't light myself on fire along with the talisman."
>Chuckly dryly and sit down. "More importantly, I recovered my..."
>Blink. Wait. We never actually got our stopwatch back, did we? (If we did, replace the next line with "stopwatch", but I don't think we did.)
>"...well, not recovered, but upon locating my stopwatch, I was at least able to discover the reason I was pulled here. And averted a terrible disaster, hopefully."
>...we did? When? I don't really see that in the previous thread >>; Unless that happened -before- we talked Kaguya down...
>OKAY WE HAVE A POCKETWATCH AND THE DETAILS DON'T MATTER
>"First things first, the stopwatch had ended up in the treasury of Mikoto Teru due to her widespread search for magical items. I happened to bump into Kaguya as I made my way to the treasury to find it, and it turned out we both had the same plan of snatching the watch during the raid on the warlord's palace. In fact, as far as I could tell, Kaguya herself pulled the watch into this time period from my own... unintentionally dragging me along with it. I suppose it had been lost one way or another over the centuries, leaving her no other way to obtain it."
>Frown. "She had been planning to use the watch to stop time, and then exert her own powers to make the time stop eternal. It's frankly a miracle that I bumped into her on the way. She had been abandoned by all those she planned to spend eternal life with; and ontop of that, after the Lunar Kingdom apparently changed it's ways, she felt that the sacrifices she'd made in forsaking it had been for nothing. She was so distressed, she felt an eternally unchanging world was the best choice left to her... as well as the best revenge she could impose on the Lunar Kingdom."
>Shudder. "It's rather terrifying to imagine such a thing might be possible so easily. Or worse, that it nearly happened."
> "Yeah."
> "Is that what Higan did to Miss Fujiwara?"
> Shrug.
> "Well, it should ultimately not matter anyway, if I am successful in altering the course of the future."
> "My intention is to return to my proper time and alter the course of events that led to Miss Houraisan's current situation. There are a couple of factors that I strongly believe led to this, and they are factors I can exert influence over in my time."
> "Mmm...I'm not sure. From what I can tell, the three major issues are Eientei's love triangle, the Lunarians 'changing', whatever that means, and Miss Keine Kamishirasawa's premature death. If you have suggestions for fixing any of those things..."
> Shrug.
> "I must confess I haven't paid them that much mind. Though it does remind me that I need to see Tenshi before I go back; it would seem not all messages from the future to the past were well-received, and that I may have unwittingly gotten someone to destroy themselves."
> "Explain the situation to herself and Miss Fujiwara, so that Miss Fujiwara does not go storming off to do something catastrophically stupid. And, perhaps, make sure she goes outside very little in the winter, so as to avoid any nasty cases of pneumonia."
> "I floating the idea of making Miss Kamishirasawa an immortal, but Kaguya shot that down. I imagine a number of other people would be less than pleased by that solution anyway, as much as it would not matter to me in the long run."
> "Because, in my time, the major event that has led her general health to be permanently compromised has already come to pass."
>"Are you suggesting attempting to send me back a day or so farther to prevent Keine's accident? Or just to find a better solution? Kaguya did say something along the lines of perhaps Eirin not trying to cure it as hard as she could have..."
>"I had thought the former to be impossible, but if it could be done, it would certainly be the best for solving Keine's issue. That alone may mostly prevent the rest of Kaguya's problems from escalating... hopefully. As well, it would prevent one of my other missteps." Frown. "A message to the past that it seems may be much better left undelivered."
> "I'm...afraid I don't follow."
> "Ah. Well, it was not her intention to bring me here, so it is hardly a guarantee she could send me back even further. But, if we can find her again, I suppose it is worth asking."
> "Whatever works."
>"Considering that our encounter ended in convincing her to let me attempt to fix her past, I think it's likely."
>"...I mean Kaguya."
>Grimace. "Seems we got mixed up. The hakutaku, on the other hand, I see being much less cooperative. She deemed the idea of saving Keine to be a pointless effort. She also held a rather low opinion of her for how she stayed out in the open despite her important role; which isn't surprising, considering how the new one hides herself away perpetually."
>"...hrm. Still, if it's for the sake of stopping Kaguya from destroying time itself, she might be persuaded. But given how seriously she takes her job, even she might deem it necessary to leave her cave and take matters into her own hands rather than alter history itself. Hopefully she'll rather just let us deal with it for her."
>Chuckle. "I can certainly understand that feeling. Now, how would we go about this, assuming she agrees? Even the hakutaku hadn't known how to remove the force keeping me here, so I presume either she will have to come here, or you will have to come with me to her, so that you two may work together."
>"Can do. Well, hopefully enough."
>"Would it be possible to have another of those burnable talismans? I don't imagine the hakutaku would fancy taking a long stroll through Gensokyo, given what lengths she goes to to keep her location a secret."
>"Thank you."
>Take it.
>"If there's nothing else, then I'll take my leave to see if I can convince her, then."
> "Though, actually, if you have any way to call Tenshi here to save me the effort of finding her, that would be appreciated. Unless you believe that problem would never come to pass if I am successful in stopping the explosion that caused all this?"
>"Yes, that would be very helpful"
>"But, i should notify you about one last thing before i head off."
>Show Ran the ring on our hand.
>"I found this in my pocket during my encounter with Kaguya, i don't remember picking it up, perhaps you might have an idea as to it's meaning,"
>"Thank you."
>Give Ran the ring.
>...did the location of the hakutaku's cave change from our influence on the future, in the second set of memories? I remember something like this, but it'd be quite a bit of digging to find it.
>"It probably is, but a ring mysteriously appearing among my things is at least a curiosity."
>Any notable landmarks nearby we could suggest Ran to gap us to? 'Near some bushes' probably won't go over well.
>"...hmm. Come to think of it, there was one bit of unfinished business I have left in this time I might want attend to. It would involve visiting Makai."
>"Understood; the entrance of Makai it is."
>"How foreboding. Any advice before I jump on in?"
> What do we know of Makai and its denizens, other than the fact that Little Red is from there?
>"Before i head off, i should tell you that i suspect Reimu might be responsible in some way for it to showing up in my possessions, that should be a helpful lead."
>"At least, after she helped me get to Haihan is when I noticed I had it."
>Nod. "Farewell, for now!", and head through the gap.
> Do we know which way from here is Makai?
>Well, let's go on in.
> Wonderful more noise and bizarre crap. Just what we needed.
> Is there an obvious path from our current location to, well, anywhere of note (excluding behind us)?
> Head toward the plaza. Use whichever of walking or flight looks more appropriate given what everyone else is doing.
> What's the racial mix like?
> Any important-looking buildings?
> Any plaques or inscriptions on the fountain?
> Do any of the buildings have names?
>Well, gotta start somewhere. Go over to the one calling us out. "I'm looking for a certain magician, actually. She used to have a familiar who looked similar to you."
> Frown a bit.
> "I do not 'go for' anything. The familiar's name was Petite, if that means anything to you."
> "Where might her..."
> Adopt a slightly confused face.
> "...Club?"
> Adopt a dawning look of realization that morphs into the slightest amount of disgust.
> "Of course. Where might she be, if not here?"
>"And why would that be?"
> "Oh, that's not a problem, she knows me quite well. It has simply been a while."
> "Perhaps instead I could try to get you into Petite's establishment, if you took me there?"
> "Mmm...I suppose I cannot really prove myself at this point in time. Well, if I must find her on my own, so be it."
> What's a bus?
>"What's a bus?"
> Is there any obvious indication around that this is 'Maiville'?
> What's the tallest building in the vicinity?
> Let's just head straight up, then.
> How many other obvious town areas are there in the distance?
> Fly toward the tallest building that we can see.
> How dilapidated or pristine does this building seem?
> Head toward the top floor, looking for an unblocked (if not open) window.
> Does it appear that the window can be opened?
> Eh, try opening it anyway.
> Check around the windows on this level.
> Do we recognize this youkai? Perhaps it is Patchouli?
> Is it Petite then, perhaps? Perhaps she dyed her hair?
> Go down a floor and search the windows there.
> Head down to ground level.
> Pandamoneum Northwest Central? And we want South Pandamoneoum Tower...
> Head south-south-east from here to whatever looks like the most important tower.
> Head toward the top floor of this building and peek in the windows.
> ? That doesn't look right if this is Koa's place...
> ...Unless that street, uh, 'performer' actually meant she was running some sort of fancy club, and not a...
> ...Well, we can hardly be blamed, given the people and circumstances involved.
> Are Koa or Patchouli immediately visible?
> Hmm...
> Drop a floor and investigate further.
> For reference, has/did Patchouli's Great Unmoving Lifestyle lead to rotundity or frailty?
> Descend to the ground and land. This could be it, but it'd be best to check the name of the tower to be sure.
> Wonderful! Head inside.
> Head to the up-and-down glass tubes across from the doors we just used to enter. Perhaps they can take us to the top floor.
> Well, whatever. We'll show them! Hit button 109.
> We're reasonably familiar with Suika, but what do we know of Yuugi Hoshiguma?
> Are the glass tube door opaque at this level, or are they still transparent?
> How rested does our time-steppage feel?
> Does Koa have a nickname for us, such as "Big Red"? If so, do we know what it is?
> Give a low whistle as we walk toward the oni.
> "I suppose I must admit she's done quite well for herself. You there, Miss, is Patchouli Knowledge available?"
> "Petite's former master from Gensokyo."
> "Really? She didn't come here? I can't imagine where else in Makai she would have gone..."
> Are the doors behind the oni closed?
> Does the oni have any obvious door keys?
> "Of course, my apologies. That was more me thinking out loud. Do you, perhaps, have any sort of system for you to call Petite remotely from here? I have learned enough about this place that I do not expect to be allowed inside."
> "Surely she can spare a minute for an old co-worker?"
> Frown a bit, then sigh.
> "Very well. My apologies for wasting your time. Farewell."
> Curtsey, stepping out of time mid-curtsey.
> Head toward the doors behind the oni and try opening them.
>> If we are successful, step inside, gently closing them behind us, and take a quick stock of what's going on in this room.
> Are there any rooms that look obviously like offices? If so, head to the nearest one. If not, hurry to the kitchen.
> Exit the kitchen.
> Head up the closer set of delicate stairs. (If they're equidistant, use the rightmost one.) Look around once we're at the top.
> Hurry our way over to that booth.
> Stand next to the side of the booth where the devil sandwich is being made (instead of actually getting into the booth). Position ourselves so that perhaps the devils can see us from the corners of their eye, but they are not looking anywhere close to directly at us.
> Step back into time.
> "Little Red."
> ...Well, at least our appearance didn't make a catastrophic scene.
> Raise our voice volume a little bit.
> "She can get behind me."
> Step more into their view.
> "Hey, Little Red."
> "Of course it is. Where is Lady Patchouli? Even if she is not here, I cannot imagine someone in your position with your history does not know anything about her current whereabouts."
> "None at all. Though I did ask about you specifically and then disappeared right in front of her, so it would not surprise me if she comes storming up here at some point."
> Look back and forth at the other two devils and curtsey.
> "My apologies, ladies. I am Sakuya Izayoi, a former co-worker of Miss Petite."
> Blink.
> "...I suppose I should have given her my name, then. I suppose it is true what they say happens when one assumes."
> Pull up a chair as instructed and have a seat.
> "So what can you tell me?"
> Make a zipper-motion across our lips.
> "Where would I go if I wanted to find her?"
> "I imagine she is more preoccupied with The Warlord and all that conquering army hoopla. Where is the burnout district? If nothing else, I can escape any encounter safely."
> Frown a bit.
> "All the more reason for me to go, then. Her current state is partially my responsibility, and it would benefit history for me to discover if her condition can be fixed with further research, or if she should not be brought back at all in the first place."
> "I have reason to believe it's possible, based on how I learned she was here in the first place."
> "Yes, but she is not the only one that died and came back not entirely themselves. It would seem the resurrection process was not quite perfected. I admit I am the furthest thing from an expert on the subject, but I suspect that, much like the other, her body now harbors two consciousnesses, hers and whatever berserker is running around, and that she will see and hear me even if she is not in primary control."
> Grin just a little bit.
> "Well, that may just have been because you were you. Which bodes even worse for me. I cannot think of two common acquaintances she liked less."
> Lose the grin.
> "But, in all seriousness, I do still wish to try, if only to confirm that it is a bad idea to bring her back and make sure it never happens. I promise you I will come back in one piece."
> Shake our head.
> "I do not plan on being around that long, independent of all this. If not for all this, I would have gone home by now. The sentiment is appreciated, though, even if I would have to decline anyway on account of Meiling."
> "I'll do what I can."
>Frown. Do we know of any way one could disable Patchouli from casting magic? If her arms or mouth could be bound, for example?
> "You all realize you are making it sound more and more as though she needs someone to incapacitate her."
> Lower our voice.
> "Fine. What if I brought backup?"
> "Not even the Young Mistress?"
> Flan didn't hesitate to put down those soldiers earlier in either set of memories, did she?
> "Oh, *that* should not be necessary."
> "Mmm. Let me ask you this, then. You mentioned Reimu not yet sending someone to deal with this situation. What would you expect such a person to accomplish?"
> "Well, in that case, why would Reimu bother?"
> Smile a bit.
> "Because whenever an incident arises, it needs a solver to address it."
> Stand back up out of the chair.
> "If you will not tell me where the burnout district is, I will respect that. But this is a problem of my making, so I will solve it, one way or another."
> What material is the table made out of?
> Step out of time.
> Stab three knives into the table in front of Charybdis, making sure not to actually stab any food or clothing or anything else (and also not coming close to actually hitting Charybdis herself) and then return to our previous position, as if we did not move at all.
> Step back into time.
> "We both know I am far more than 'danmaku and stuff', Petite."
> Step out of time.
> Retrieve our knives and then return to our previous position, as if we did not move at all.
> Step back into time.
> "Then I'll just have to make sure I see her before she can actually do anything, and put an end to it in an instant."
> "If what you say is true about her forging danmaku and spell card rules in favor of indiscriminate murder and destruction, then I only need to do it once."
> Grin a bit.
> "She and I were probably fated to try to kill each other anyway. I wish you the best in your tremendous success, Petite. For what it's worth, I am genuinely impressed by, proud of, and happy for you."
> "Of course. Thank you."
> Curtsey to the other two devils.
> "Miss Adel, Miss Charybdis, it has been a pleasure. Please forgive my impertinence; to err is human, as they say. And please treat Petite well."
> Glance over at the nearby windows. How simple do they appear to be to unlock?
> "I will...at least talk to a few more people about it. I cannot promise anything beyond that."
> "No. But there are others who may have ideas for how to take care of such a situation."
> "I was going to ask about that, yes. Do any of these windows open?"
> Is she taller than us?
> Is she taller than Meiling?
> "Thank you."
> Follow!
> "Swears to secrecy aside, I imagine it did not escape you that a human has been on this establishment's guest list for several hundred years."
> "I mean more that a human has been on the guest list for several times the length of a normal human's life span."
> "The truth is stranger than fiction, and not really worth going into. Suffice it to say that I recognize a fair amount of the accoutrements that populate the top two floors of this building, from a...past life."
> Follow outside.
> "Quite possibly."
> Chuckle a bit.
> "Just between you and me, were I not in both a hurry and a committed relationship, I would have seriously considered Petite's offer. But this situation must be addressed. Even setting all things Makai aside, it is far too personal to my family and friends."
> Frown in thought.
> "...Mmm. Would you pass a message back to Petite for me? Once I have spoken to everyone else I plan to speak to about the situation, I will at least return here and tell you all our decision. It is certainly possible the others will agree with her that this is a horrible idea, in which case, I will begrudgingly let it go."
> "I meant the one she made earlier, though the sentiment extends to yours as well. Not to objectify yourself or Charibdys, but it would seem Petite has done remarkably well for herself in more pursuits than just business."
> Are we actually outside at this point?
> "I'm sure it does."
> "Indeed."
> Curtsey.
> "As before, it has been a pleasure, Miss Adel."
> "Of course. I will see you all again soon."
> Take flight and, giving the burnout district whatever wide berth we need to avoid it, head back to the Makai-Gensokyo tunnel.
> From there, if nothing interesting happens mid-flight or once we arrive at the tunnel, head back through the tunnel to Gensokyo.
> From there, if nothing interesting happens in the tunnel, take to the air high enough to get our bearings, and head all the way back to Alice's room in the Lake Temple, searching for Marisa in particular.
> Take on a quiet tone of voice.
> "Marisa?"
>"It's Sakuya again, actually."
>When did we last see Alice?
> "Away. How you are you?"
> Frown.
> "Unfortunate. May I come in? I should not be long."
> "Very well. I came to tell you that I have discovered Patchouli's location."
> "The good news..."
> Sigh.
> "Is that she is in Makai just as you predicted. The much, much worse news...is that she has apparently become completely unhinged. Whether she has entirely lost herself, or is still self-aware and simply no longer cares, she now terrorizes that land, forgoing danmaku and spell card rules in favor of magical destruction...and killing."
> "No. Koakuma all but begged me to not even try."
> "Should I try?"
> Oh, right, One-Week Witch. What day of the week is it?
> "I do not know, sadly."
> "I will see if I can retrieve her. She is quite far away."
> "Can she be killed?"
> "I see. I will leave now so you may get some rest."
> "One last thing, though; I do intend to tell Reimu about Patchouli."
> "Get some rest."
> Leave the Lake Temple and head to the Hakurei Shrine.
> Wave to Reimu.
> "Of course. Would you be able to retrieve Alice for me? I only had a way back for myself."
> "Most unfortunate. How aware are you of terrorizing individuals in Makai?"
> "It would seem they have a somewhat new resident that they do not want. One from Gensokyo, that has discarded spell cards and danmaku in favor of destruction and lethal force."
> "Lady Patchouli. Or what's left of her, anyway."
> "No. She's been resurrected."
> "Most likely not."
> "Indeed. The threat she poses is apparently very real - even Shinki is having major trouble handling her, and Koakuma all but begged me not to confront her."
> "Quite."
>"Quite frankly, I was planning to do something about it myself. It's a personal matter. But a lot of people have died, so I can't take it lightly. I'll need to be prepared before I even attempt anything."
> "Well, you can tell me not to do it if you think it is a bad idea."
> "Of course. But I was not asking you as a Gensokyo goddess. I was asking you as someone who knows me, and knows what it is like to be human, and how fragile humans can be in the face of a magician that is shooting to kill."
>"On that matter, what day of the week is it?" Chuckle dryly.
> Pull out the Monday Magic scroll.
> "Really now. How fortuitous."
> How long does the scroll appear to be?
> "Do you think you could make any sense of it?"
> "Where is the closest magician that you trust?"
> Do we recognize the name Madeleine?
> Did we see a Horse Goddess statue?
> "I am afraid I do not know where this statue is."
>"Ah, I see. Thank you. Hmmm... by the way, would you happen to know anything about agate rings?"
>Chuckle. "Perhaps a strange question, but after you sent me to Haihan I noticed one among my things. I don't know for sure when it got there, but I don't recall ever finding one."
> "Hmm. So it was not your doing...bizarre."
> "I had figured it may be a by-product of your...unique methods of transportation."
>Chuckle. "I suppose you're not a goddess of rings, after all. Well, I have someone examining the ring already, just in case."
> Where did we leave the ring, again? With Ran?
>"Well, thank you for the assistance. I think I'll head over to Flare's Potions now and see what can be done with this scroll."
>Curtsy, and wave as we head out towards the market and shop, as per Reimu's directions.
>Enter the.. potiontorium?
>"Thank you... although I have something a bit different in mind. Are you Flare?"
> Do we know that family name?
> "Ah, the Motoori line still lasts?"
>Chuckle. "Sorry, it's a long story. Regardless, someone recommended you for helping with a scroll I have."
>Show her the Monday Magic scroll.
>"It's another long story, but... to put it simply, the magician who wrote the scroll has gone rogue, and I may need to stop them before they can cause any further harm. This isn't my area of expertise, but I was hoping the scroll may be useful in some way."
>Chuckle. "Yes, I suppose this is from quite awhile back."
>Raise eyebrows. "Oh! I didn't come to sell it. Rather, I may be facing the author of this scroll in battle... I was hoping it could be helpful somehow. I might be wrong, though."
>Frown and lower our voice. "It's important to mention that the author is... not obeying spellcard rules anymore. Another story there, but to make it short, I've been told they've gone completely berserk and blast people on sight."
>"Ah, the problem is, while the author is from here, they've run off elsewhere. She'd get in a mess sending a shrine maiden out of her jurisdiction. So instead... well, it's a personal matter for me, so the goddess has nothing to do with it if -I- meddle in other place's affairs." Wink. "She recommended you to me, actually."
>Shake our head. "Oh, gracious no. I'll handle all of that. The recommendation was simply for seeing if the scroll could be of help."
>"But of course." Nod and hand over the scroll.
> "Despite ignoring spellcard rules, it is exceedingly likely she will be using magic by that metaphorical playbook. I need to know the best ways to approach and counter someone using the techniques described in that scroll."
> "Certainly."
> "Take your time, then."
> "The caster, or the target?"
> "That sounds exceedingly painful."
> "Does it happen instantly when she casts the spell? Or does she have to actually hit me with something?"
> Grimace just a slight bit.
> "Ah, well...unfortunately, I suspect this person does indeed not care what the results look like."
> "Quite. Do you happen to know anyone who uses sun magic and would also be either brave enough or foolhardy enough to face a foe such as this?"
> "That is quite unfortunate. Are there other ways to harness the sun?"
> "And who around here can do that?"
> "And what exactly would they do?"
> "I suppose that's better than nothing. What are you charging?"
> Inventory
> "Ah. That...might be a problem."
> "My apologies."
> "That might be difficult, unfortunately, depending on how long-term you are thinking."
>"Unless, perhaps, you're willing to accept shillings, the currency they use in True Glorian. I have a feeling not, but it's what I have right now."
>If she shows any remote interest in that possibility, show her a shilling.
>"I have 45 shillings. I admittedly have no idea what the conversion rates between mon and shillings, but I'll pay you what I've got. If you're lucky, it might be worth more than 500 mon?" Chuckle.
> Frown a bit.
> "...The offer is appreciated, but I am not going to lie to you by pretending we will ever see each other again after this, no matter our financial situation. It is nothing personal, it is simply a product of my existence."
> "Not with any amount of luck. But the truth is far less believable."
> "Oh, I do not blame you in the slightest, and your efforts were and are appreciated."
> Nod.
> "Any recommendations?"
> "Unfortunate, but understandable."
> Shake our head.
> "No, I understand."
> Nod.
> "I'll take whatever I can get."
> "That is quire relevant to my interests, yes."
> "Those auras sound particularly troublesome for someone who would try to take their user down."
> Frown a bit.
> "Of course she would have destructive anti-melee defenses. This is not my lucky day."
> "I suppose. What else is there?"
> "Of course."
> Retrieve the scroll.
> "Thank you. I will undoubtedly need it."
> "Oh, an important curiosity. Is it possible for someone to set up a passive aura around themselves as a shield?"
> "Could she set it and forget it, so to speak? Or would she have to maintain it constantly?"
> Frown.
> "So it is possible. That is quite unfortunate."
> "Well, she and I have a history, and she knows of my talents, which is why I ask at all. Hmm...if she did employ such a shield, would I be able to see it?"
> "Would I perhaps be able to sense it, then?"
> Are we?
> "That is...unfortunate."
> "What do you mean?"
> Look mildly skeptical.
> "This will not have any permanent side effects, will it?"
> Take the bracelet.
> While staring at the wall behind Flare, put the bracelet on.
> Look mildly shocked.
> "I believe this works."
> "I see. Quite literally."
> "Of course. The important thing is that, with this, she cannot produce a shield that I cannot see?"
> "...I suppose that is the most I can ask for."
> "Oh, no, that was not intended to be commentary on you. My apologies. It was a realization of what I am signing myself up for here."
> Curtsy.
> "Thank you.
> ...Did she actually say 'used to BE a jewelry box'?
> "Ah, you have tsukumogami lineage as well?"
> "Oh, ah, no, I was thinking about you being a Motoori."
> "It was not intended to be such. Mmm...perhaps I should simply give you my backstory, as much as you will most likely believe me insane, or attention-starved."
> "Mmm, no, I suppose not. Let us simply say that I am not-quite-passingly familiar with one of your ancestors, and leave it at that."
> "Hmm?"
> "Ah. Well...in a way, I suppose."
> Have we ever done any such thing in any capacity?
> Shake our head.
> "Other people's relationships are not and never have been my business."
> "Regardless, do you wish for me to return this once I am done?"
> "Because I am about to do something incredibly stupidly dangerous."
> "Well, still, I wanted to be sure."
> Did we get that scroll back?
> "I don't believe so."
> Curtsy again.
> "Thank you. I imagine I will need it. Have a wonderful day."
> Exit the shop, then take flight and head back to the Lake Temple.
> Head inside.
> Flag the monk down.
> "I am, yes. Is she available right now?"
> "Thank you."
> Head to the library.
> Frown a bit.
> "I did, but my adventures have led me to some most unexpected destinations, some of which are quite disturbing. You and I need to chat in private; what I have to say, you deserve to know, but no one else needs to hear."
> "Very good, Young Mistress."
> Follow her to her room.
> Have we seen what happened to Remilia's old room?
> Have we seen what happened to our old room?
> "Hmm, the former maids' wing."
> Have a seat on the stool.
> "Come to think, what was done with Mistress' room and my room?"
> "Ah, a good idea."
> ""Of course."
> Summarize what happened in Haihan, from Reimu sending us there to us getting away. (We don't need to say anything about Ran in particular or where she is, but any other details are fair game, including Kaguya's love life troubles.)
>"It's very lucky she was still open to reason, but i doubt she felt much regret at all."
> "That is not the secret part, though it is probably best it was discussed in private anyway, if for no other reason than common courtesy. No, this secrecy revolves around my having learned that there is currently a terribly dangerous individual in Makai, one so far gone that they are ignoring spell card rules and actually seriously wounding people, if not outright killing them."
> Purse our lips in a thin, flat line.
> "...No. It is worse. ...It is Lady Patchouli, back from the dead."
> Shake our head.
> "I am sorry, Young Mistress."
> "This, I must confess, is partially my fault. I brought some information back to the past with me the first time returned to my time, and it appears that has altered the course of history. That information was used to resurrect Lady Patchouli, though the process was clearly imperfect."
> "The process was, obviously, intended to bring her back safely and normally. It was used on one other person as well. But something presumably went wrong in retrieving their souls from Higan. What it is, I certainly am not knowledgeable enough to say. The other person claims there appears to be another personality, perhaps even another person entirely, in her; this other person surfaces on occasion, scared and confused, with no idea where she is. Whatever happened to Lady Patchouli, on the other hand, has driven her completely insane, and almost feral, from what I have heard. But she seems to have retained all of her magical knowledge, and...well, Lady Patchouli completely unhinged and unrestricted is a very frightening consideration, I am sure you realize."
> "That...may not be possible."
> "If Lady Patchouli could be brought to this state once, I do not know what could be safely done to recover her and prevent it from happening again."
> "We. I am not going back until this is resolved."
> "Until the immediate threat is resolved, then."
>"I have not seen her myself, but I've been lead to believe there... may not be enough left of her mind to save. It's not that I'm against the idea, but you should be aware that Patchouli would most likely be attempting to kill us on sight, just as she attempted to do to Koakuma."
>Frown deeply. "Unless we can disable her from casting magic, it might be too dangerous to attempt to reason with her."
> "I...beg your pardon?"
> "I would very much rather plan to avoid being killed, personally."
>"...of course. We'll need a way to disable her magic if we're going to do more than just beat her, though. I'm afraid I don't know much about that. Do you?"
>"Hmm... you have a point there. Still, Koakuma tried to do that, and almost got killed. If nothing else, it'd be easier to try if she wasn't blasting us the whole time."
> "Neither did Lady Patchouli and myself. Frankly, I expect her to turn her rage up to 11 the instant she spots me."
> "Assuming her original personality is actually still present somewhere."
> "Because I am partially responsible for it coming to pass."
> "I am quite sure. Lady Patchouli was still dead my first time around, and now she is...this, as a result of my bringing information to the past. Regardless, yes, this must be addressed. I did promise Koakuma that I would return to her first with my decision, though."
> "Any time you're ready, Young Mistress."
> Do we?
> Quests
> Did anyone else ask us to visit them before we headed back to Koakuma?
> "I do not believe so."
>"Do you know where the entrance to Makai is?"
> Is there one?
> "Is there? I didn't see one..."
> What landmark(s) was the entrance we found close to?
> "There is one north of the Hakurei Shrine. That was the one I used. Hmm, perhaps we could meet there, then."
> "You are too kind, Young Mistress."
> "I cannot think of anything else."
> Stand up as well.
> "I will keep this in mind."
> Head on out as well.
> Make our way back to the Hakurei Shrine, since we don't really have anything else to deal with right now.
> Oh, how fortuitous.
> Make our way to her.
> "My apologies! I promise things were far more complicated than any of us realized, even Haihan's highest-ups."
> "If there was time to deal with everyone else, I would have."
> Look around. Is anyone else present?
> Look back to Alice.
> "That's not a story I'm really willing to tell in public. We should move a bit away from the shrine visitors."
> "That will do."
> Head around to the back of the Shrine.
> "I ran into an old, old friend of ours. Remember Kaguya Houraisan?"
> "She had not. It would seem she still wants absolutely nothing to do with them."
> "The long and short of it is that she is the one responsible for my presence here in this time. Apparently, she somehow summoned my watch to this time period, accidentally dragging me along for the ride."
> "She said something about how Lunar society has started changing, which she was never expecting to happen. She does not want them to change, because it would invalidate her reasons for doing what she did in the past. Her intent was to acquire my watch and apply her power of eternity on it after activating it, keeping the Lunarians frozen in time forever. This came with the unfortunate side effect of keeping all of reality frozen in time forever, but that was a price she was willing to pay."
> "It certainly is. And she did actually succeed in obtaining my watch from the Haihan treasury, and demonstrating she was capable of what she wished to do. That was...a rather frightening experience, I must confess."
>"She didn't seem to be entirely prepared for an intense fight, but given our battle took place in frozen time, neither was I. Without any of my spellcards or normal tricks, we were evenly matched... in a fight that would end as soon as I got tired of fighting the flow of time. In the end, I had to talk her down, instead."
> "Well, no, she would have, if I did not present her with a unique opportunity to change the past. I am exceedingly likely to never influence Lunarian society, but she has also been abandoned, in one way or another, by everyone here on Earth that was important to her, which I *can* affect."
> "After that, I returned to this region via alerting Great Sage Yakumo in a predetermined manner. I apologize for not retrieving you beforehand, but time seemed of the essence, and she is not particularly thrilled that more people than just me know where she lives."
> "Sorry."
> "How did the two of them fare, anyway?"
> "Yes, that sounds like it will be fine."
> Frown a bit.
> "Unfortunately, I cannot say the same for me for sure, given what is on the immediate horizon in this time period."
> "I apologize in advance if this gets uncomfortable for you, but I have...learned the whereabouts of a certain missing person."
>"I took a trip to Makai and talked to Koakuma, the devil who used to be the mansion's library assistant. ...she told me about Patchouli."
>"It was rather gruesome. Do I need to explain, or do you... already know?"
>Nod. "I wasn't sure. It... it's not good." Grimace. "In Makai they call her the Purple Monster, and Koakuma called her a screeching maniac, from the time she attempted approaching her. She blasts people to bits on sight, and is powerful enough that no one in Makai has managed to stop her."
> "So...the Young Mistress and I intend to do something about the situation."
> "She and I have rather different opinions on the most appropriate way to do so, however. I have no idea how this is going to go."
> "I did not tell her the circumstances surrounding Lady Patchouli's reappearance, only that she has been brought back from the dead. I did not know how much or how little you would be willing to reveal."
> "Lady Patchouli is, yes. The Young Mistress is presently preparing for the trip there."
>"Considering that she's likely to be... lethally aggressive, I'm glad you got back before I went. I was hoping you'd have some advice, given you made her artificial body."
> "So the pain can be ignored? Good to know."
> "What would be a good idea?"
> "My intention is to do whatever is necessary to suppress Lady Patchouli. You would be correct that our opinions differ on the best approach, though."
> Hold up the Monday Magic scroll with a grin.
> "Monday."
> "Honestly, I lucked into this. It was in the Haihan treasure vault, along with my watch and plenty of other foreign things. I only purloined it because I thought those in my present time would find it amusing and novel. I've already spoken to a Human Village mage-ish about it as well, and she has given me some general pointers for what to look out for and how to counteract it. Unfortunately, I do not really have a way to harness the sun, but at least I know what to look out for."
> "I don't suppose you have any advice for how to harness the sun?"
>"And would you have any idea how one might stop Patchouli from using her magic?"
> "Is it possible to knock her out without killing her?"
> "...Come to think of it, is it possible to kill her?"
> "So, say, a knife to the throat in a non-danmaku fashion..."
> Do our knives slice, or are they only built for stabbing?
> "Hmm, so an asthma attack would be possible?"
> Wait, were we aware of that happening?
> "It was worth checking at least. I suppose simply slicing her head off her shoulders may have to do in an emergency. Unless even that would not do the job?"
> Frown.
> "That's...mildly disconcerting. Very well, then. Do you suppose the Young Mistress's methods stand any chance of working?"
> "Mmm. And I suppose I cannot really ask you to discuss that possibility with the Young Mistress, either."
> "I mean that it will be difficult to explain why you are worth consulting."
> "In that case, I suppose I should ask you if you have another copy of your research you can give to me to bring back to the past. Sage Yakumo has recommended working with the hakutaku of this time to send me back a bit further than my point of time of disappearance, in the hopes that I can prevent the explosion in the library from happening in the first place. If we are successful, then it may result in my first trip back to the present not actually happening, which would be a major setback for you."
> Nod.
> "Of course. You may also want to prepare anything you can that may help avoid, ah, the various unintended side effects of your work."
> "Excellent."
> "I cannot think of anything immediately. If the Young Mistress returns first, what should I tell her for why I am waiting for you?"
> "Ah, I suppose that's true. Though you would have to make sure Reimu is willing to keep your secrets."
> "That would probably work."
> Follow!
> "You are quite welcome."
> "Understood."
> Head around to the front ourselves (on foot).
> Is Reimu out here?
> If not, head to where she was last.
> Head inside in search of her, then.
> Did we tell Reimu about Patchouli?
> "It's far more familiar than most other places."
> "And, if I am going to wait for the Young Mistress to conclude her business, there are far less comfortable places I could be."
> "All right."
> Do so!
>"More or less."
>"That sounds lovely, actually. I can't recall the last time I've eaten..."
> "Your hospitality is much appreciated."
> Take one and have it.
> "If she becomes available. I have nothing particularly urgent to relay, so there is no need for her to go out of her way."
> "Well, there are certainly matters I must attend to, but I have no new vital information regarding any of them since the last time we spoke."
> "Thank you."
> "Yes, she shared a fair amount of information I certainly did not have before."
> Show off the bracelet.
> "She also gave me this."
> Are we actually wearing the bracelet at present?
> "Near as I can tell, it allows the wearer to 'see' magic, in a way. If there is magic energy somewhere, it will glow. More powerful magic will glow brighter."
> "Most certainly, given the rather lethal nature of the attacks I am likely to face very soon."
> "The Young Mistress, in fact. She is taking care of some business at present, but intends to meet me here."
> "Perhaps she correctly guessed how I intended to deal with Lady Patchouli and intends to head me off at the pass, so to speak."
> Sip.
> "Get the old Lady Patchouli back out of the current homicidal Lady Patchouli. I must admit I have no idea how she will accomplish this, but I assume she has some sort of plan."
> Do we remember where Flan said Meiling was off to?
> "It is certainly more likely to be her than me."
> Allow for just a ghost of a grin.
> "I cannot imagine it was particularly easy."
> Sip.
> "Regardless, it is not as though I specifically planned to kill her. Incapacitating her would be enough for me. I am happy to defer to the Young Mistress on the matter, though."
> "I'm sure."
> Grab another cracker and eat it.
We already discussed that with her last time. As far as I'm aware, there's nothing new to report.No, we didn't, we forgot to mention Kaguya entirely.
> Did we discuss Kaguya with Reimu at all?
>"Ah, yes. Whilst I was off dealing with Kaguya, I heard Alice got into quite the mess. They thought Alice was on Haihan's side, from what I heard."
>"It turns out, Kaguya is the one behind me being here. She somehow pulled my special stopwatch from my era, to now. I suppose it had simply been lost over the centuries... regardless, I was unintentionally drug along with it. Haihan had collected the watch during their search for magical artifacts. I bumped into her whilst she was snatching it, during the chaos of the raid."
>"I didn't think to ask. I was busy stopping her from using my watch to stop time for eternity."
>Sigh heavily.
>"Having been abandoned by those she expected to spend her immortal life with, and faced with the fact that the Lunar Kingdom was changing the ways she had forsaken them for, the only thing she wanted was revenge. So, she was going to freeze the Lunar Capitol in time, and everything else along with it. I barely managed to talk her down."
>"Well, hopefully that will be different next time around. In the end, it all comes down to saving Keine."
>Frown. "I was pulled into the future right after I let the bookcase fall on Keine, when the Mansion's library was on fire. It caused a chain of events that led to this. The idea is to convince the current Hakutaku to help send me back slightly earlier in time, and prevent the accident altogether."
>"Yes. I don't imagine she's going to like this plan one bit, though. Hopefully an immortal being threatening to end time itself will be enough to convince her."
>"At least my adventure through time is nearly over, now. After we tie up this loose end about Patchouli, it's off to see the hakutaku and finally go home, once and for all."
>"Well, as long as nobody actually goes bang. I'd like to actually get home to fix this mess." Chuckle. "Hmmm, I wonder if the Young Mistress is ready..."
>"At the Makai entrance north of here."
>Chuckle. "Thank you for the advice."
>Relax and enjoy our tea for a bit; but once we finish, make ready to leave, presuming nothing of interest happens.
>Chuckle. "Well, I must be off now. Hopefully the weather situation improves, hmm?"
>Curtsy, and then make our way to the planned meeting point.
> Hold up on those, because the planned meeting point is the Shrine we are presently at.
>"Ah, perfect!"
>Go to greet her.
> Look just-slightly shocked.
> "Well, that answers my first question."
> "Hey."
> Grin a bit.
> "I feel like I was gone for just a big longer than you."
>Chuckle. "Yes. Things are good."
> Is there anyone else immediately present other than the three of us?
> Did Flan's shove get Meiling all the way within our reach?
> Deftly grab Meiling with a grin as she stumbles toward us and spin in place, whirling her around with us.
> "Oh, grown far more fragile after a thousand years, have you?"
>Laugh. "Ah, but jokes aside, I'm glad to see you're doing well. I didn't think I'd be able to find you before I went back again."
>"Well, I certainly wouldn't want you to sit around waiting for hundreds of years." Chuckle. "Thankfully, next time I go back, I should stay right where I'm supposed to be in time. That much has been sorted out."
>Grimace. "I did. She died, but was brought back to life. But from what I've heard, after that she isn't... quite right in the head."
>"I certainly hope so. Just be ready to dodge some blasting."
>"I believe some of the words people used to describe her were "homicidal screeching maniac". Emphasis on the homicidal part."
>"Just be careful." Nod. "Alright, so are we all ready to go?"
> How is Meiling in a Danmaku duel? What about in a real duel?
> "I did manage to get some information that will prove invaluable, yes." Pause, "I'm not quite sure if we'll be able to stop Patchouli without a fight, so a lot of the information I gathered is related to dealing with her in combat."
> If Flandre reacts to this negatively: "I'm sorry, Young Mistress."
> Take the time to explain to them what Flare and Alice told us about the monday spells and Patchouli's body functions. Make sure to mention the auras and the very, very bad effects of them.
> "Now, as for stopping her from casting magic entirely... I'm not sure that is possible. We would need to immobilize her completely, prevent her from talking, bypass her auras and likely knock her out before she can do something out of sheer force of will."
> "It seems our best bet, should it come to that, is to harness the power of the Sun, and I'm afraid the only specialist on the subject I know of is the Hell Raven."
> Have we ever fought Patchy or other magic users in the past, outside of a danmaku duel? Would, say, a fire wall still affect us if we went right through it in the world of stopped time? What about traps?
>"Yes, the goal is not to kick her head off. But from what I've heard, it may not be possible to avoid some kind of fight, so we should at least be ready. Just think of it like solving an incident, and afterwords everyone can have a nice cup of tea. Including Patchouli."
>"Well, it's plan B. First we'll just try to talk to her, of course. It'll be much easier if we don't have to fight."
> "Yes, though we will need to make one last stop once we get there before this confrontation."
> "Little Red's establishment. I promised her I would return to her once my decision had been made, as she did not want me going anywhere near Lady Patchouli out of concern for my safety."
> "Mmm, I do wonder if your names are on the guest list, then."
> "Yes. Apparently my name is on it, at least, though I was not aware until after I snuck in."
> Frown.
> "How was I supposed to expect that a human that was last seen a thousand years ago was on the guest list for what is apparently the trendies club in Makai?"
> "Right. I am confident it will work out to be fine in the end."
>"Yes, let's be off."
>Nod, and start heading off to the Makai entrance, bidding Reimu and co. adieu as we go.
>Make our way towards Koakuma's place.
> "Ah, here we are."
> Make our way inside and to the device that brought us up to the floor with Koa's club.
> Nod.
> "I understand."
> Gesture to ourselves.
> "But Sakuya Izayoi has a bit of urgent business with her."
> Nod again.
> "Yes."
> Look expectantly to our entourage.
> Curtsy.
> "Of course. And my apologies for my confusion earlier."
> Head on inside!
> What species does she appear to be?
> What did Koakuma go by in this establishment, again?
> "Ah, Miss Petite herself is actually expecting us."
> "We can wait a bit if need be, though I imagine she will want to see us sooner rather than later. Our business is not a life-or-death emergency, but it is something she wanted to see resolved as quickly as possible."
> Chuckle.
> "It must be tremendously eye-opening."
> Make a slightly amused face.
> "Yes. Welcome to Makai, Young Mistress."
> Nod.
> "Thank you."
> Follow!
> What's a cognac?
> "Just a little, please."
> Find a reasonably comfortable seat and take it. (Make sure to leave the comfiest non-Koakuma option to Flan.)
> "That is why I said 'just a little', Young Mistress."
> Sigh.
> "The Young Mistress believes she can talk Lady Patchouli down."
> Shrug at Koa.
> "I explained what you told me."
> "I didn't realize you went with a team the first time."
> "Well, you are in a bit of a unique situation compared to all other Makai denizens. But I suppose I can understand your trepidation."
> "Well, perhaps, but I would not be quite as confident in this had I not discussed today's weaknesses with a much more knowledgeable mage than myself."
> Mental check of all the abilities we are capable of doing with our time powers without suffering severe pushback.
> "I am merely considering Plan B, Young, Mistress."
> "I will contribute as I am able, of course. But I imagine you will be much better at it than I."
> "I did promise I would let you know of my decision, at the very least, so here we are."
> "In fairness, we are far more likely to be successful than your previous team, as the Young Mistress implied."
> "I cannot imagine your presence would be worse than mine."
> "You may not need to do anything other than be there, really. The presence of enough of her old family may be sufficient to calm her down."
> Grin just a bit.
> "Besides, should we be successful, snapping Lady Patchouli back to reality will be something you can lord over her."
> "I would not be pursuing it otherwise. It would have cost me nothing to go back to my time."
> "I cannot say for sure. But I cannot say you would not make a difference."
> "As do I."
> "...Well, I'm not sure how much longer we were planning on staying before heading out to see her."
> Nod.
> "Of course."
> "Of course. And thank you."
> Stand up as well.
> "Until later, then."
> Head out of the office.
> Find an open table that will fit three.
> "As far as I am aware, this is her establishment."
> "Oh, I assure you Petite is still Petite. The Charybdis and Adel she mentioned? She initially offered me their 'services' through tomorrow if I agreed to not pursue our current goal."
> "They seemed to imply she has substantial wealth now, as well. I suspect all of the old mansion accoutrement around this place is not everything she was able to get her hands upon. Still, she seems to be doing very well for herself. Perhaps she qualifies as Medium Red now."
> Pick up a menu and have a look.
> "They most certainly did."
> What are the non-alcoholic beverage options?
> Have we had goat before? What about mutton?
> Are there poultry options?
> Make the slightest disgusted face.
> "I can only barely make sense of the contents of this menu."
> Glance over at Flan.
> "...Is it just me, or are some of these outright poisons?"
> "Hm. That could be a problem, then."
>"Perhaps I'll just wait for her to finish, instead." Chuckle.
> "It it very Apexian, except even more so."
> "...Well, you two should at least get something."
> "That is fair."
> How is Koa dressed?
> Nod and stand up.
> "All right."
> "Shall we, then?"
> "All right. You should probably lead the way until we are close, though."
> Is Patchouli visible?
> "So...how does Lady Patchouli normally operate? Does she just wander around, or does she hide somewhere and wait to ambush people?"
> Put on the magic-detection bracelet. If we aren't immediately blinded, look around.
> Point to the east.
> "I think she is that way. There is more magical energy in that direction."
> Nod.
> "Stay sharp."
> Head eastward.
> What about magic glow?
> Anywhere particularly intense?
>Continue searching.
>"Is all this..." Gesture vaguely at the barren landscape. "...her work, or was all the destruction from something else?"
> How are we feeling on the time-stoppage?
> Knife count.
> Keep searching until we notice some sort of movement or unusual activity.
> "True. Shall we try landing, then? Or at least getting much closer to the ground?"
> Have we even gone on a hunt before?
> If not, did that dead woman ever go on hunts?
> Frown a bit.
> "...I'm not sure. I promise you, Young Mistress, that this is merely a turn of phrase, but I've never gone on a womanhunt before."
> "I'm not really sure. I don't think we should split up, for safety's sake if nothing else. I also don't think it's a good idea to try to draw her out by exploding random things, as much as that is likely to get her attention."
> "Beyond those, I am honestly unsure of the best approach."
> "I mean, I have this bracelet, but that does not really do any of you any good. Perhaps it would be worth prioritizing where the damage seems most recent?"
> Do we see any smoke anywhere nearby, perhaps?
> "Perhaps we could examine any smoke, or rattling buildings?"
> "Let's try that, then."
> Head toward the nearest column of smoke, being vigilant.
> Frown and wrinkle our nose a bit.
> Is the metal still hot?
> Look around the immediate area. Any signs of activity, physical or magical?
> Get closer (downward) to the source of the smoke.
> Lower our voice volume.
> "Nothing..."
> "Shall we try another one?"
> Nod.
> Head off to the next closest column of smoke, again keeping vigilant.
> "Mmm, most likely not here."
> "It would certainly seem so."
> "I was thinking of trying to engage her...mmm, 'casually' is not the correct word. Something between familiarly and sympathetically. A gentle familiarity. Does that make sense?"
> "Of course. My hope is to catch her at least somewhat occupied. As for how to approach her, obviously we should be non-threatening. If the situation allows for it, I would like her to see only me and call the rest of you out one it seems safe to do so, since I have the easiest time escaping and hiding, but I am not counting on us being able to do that."
> Nod.
> "Let's try back the other way. The destruction there was more recent."
> Head back to the previous column of smoke. Then, from there, head to the next-closest column of smoke.
> If we are high up in the air, silently beckon everyone to follow us, and make our way down toward the ground.
> Look around the immediate vicinity for any movement.
> Look back in the direction of the previous column of smoke we were just at (the very first one we visited). Follow that column of smoke in a straight line to our current location. Then keep following that straight line off into the distance away from our current location. Are there any columns of smoke that way?
> What options do we have in the reasonable vicinity that is not somewhere we've already checked?
> Could it be blood?
> How did Flare at Monday magic worked, in regards to what it does to the body?
> "Perhaps the remnants of a victim."
> Shrug.
> "I have no real ideas otherwise."
> "Maybe."
> Have another look at the smoke columns. Are there any that are further away from both the first two we visited than we are now?
> "Let us continue onward. Perhaps we will come across even fresher destruction."
> Head toward the closest of those smoke columns.
> Beckon everyone to follow.
> Head down to ground floor wall hole, quickly peeking inside each floor on our way by.
> Taking note of our current position, step out of time.
> Quickly step inside the building through the ground floor wall hole and look around for anything Patchouli-y.
> Get back to our previous position outside and resume time.
> Hold up a hand and give everyone a meaningful look, then make a shushing motion, then lightly point a few times toward the hole.
> Quickly put out a 'stop' hand at Flan and shake our head.
> Pull out our pocketwatch, point at it, and then point at ourselves.
> Step up to the hole ourselves and have a peek all around inside in normal time.
> Assuming we do not immediately see Patchouli, turn back around, beckon to Meiling and Koakuma, and point to one outside edge of the hold.
> Wave a bit at them to get their attention.
> Once we have their attention, point at both of them (in about the torso area), then point at the ground at their feet.
> Point at Meiling, point at our eyes, and gesture all around the interior of the building.
> Point at Koakuma, point at out eyes, and gesture all around the current outside setting, including the sky.
God, I hate text adventure charades. :(
> Shake our head and wave Meiling back up.
> Float over next to Meiling and get right up to her ear.
> Take on a whisper.
> "Stay here. Keep watch inside for activity. Have her stay with you and watch the surroundings."
> Hopefully that was a whisper in return?
> Step out of Meiling's personal bubble and nod at the two of them.
> Then turn to Flan, beckon her to follow us, and slowly float inside the building, heading for that footprint we spotted.
> Look all around us. Anything that looks like Patchouli?
> If not, look at the footprint again, and then imagine the direction in which someone would have to be walking to make such a footprint. Look in that direction. Is there anything of interest that way, and how is the magic glow situation in that direction?
> Purse our lips into a thin frown.
> Look at Flan and point toward the glow (knowing full well she cannot see it).
> Begin floating toward the glow, making sure to keep our ears peeled and our eyes darting in every direction.
> Look to Flan with a quizzical look.
> Point at the melted/cooled rock.
> Brace ourselves to get shanked by Patchouli. At least we finally found her this way!