>Nod. Idly ponder where Kasen has been in this whole mess.
> We DID see her way back when Sanae was snoozing at Satori's.
>Nothing for it but to wait. Are there any ghosts around? Watch them idly.
>Nothing for it but some patience. Maybe swim around a little bit, we've really not had time to do this just to enjoy it.
>Make sure we're in the same place where she left.
>Have a seat at the edge of the dock and wait a bit more.
>Have people tried to fly over the river before?
>How long has she been gone?
> Just relax and float, until we feel like she's not coming back for a long time.
>What is the condition of the ground here? And the water's motion?
>Dig into the sand with our hands, and create a series of trenches that spell out "Go to Scarlet Devil Mansion." Or just "Scarlet Devil Mansion". Make them deep enough and wide enough that we're confident it can last for a couple days before being completely erased by the current.
>Once that is done, have a last look around for Komachi or anything else approaching. Presuming there is nothing, head for SDM by the fastest means available.
>Let's approach and see how things are coming along.
>Head in through the gate, and go to Patchouli and Alice.
>"Good work, Orin!"
>"So, how are things coming along here?"
>"Have Sakuya take care of that, Orin."
>"Because we need powerful and talented people. Don't worry, they'll be fine."
>"Anyways, there will be more people coming. How are things progressing on your end?"
>"We should be fine with the flood receding like it is."
>"Yes, too soon to tell how many. I am not sure how many are going to make it, and who all they'll be bringing."
>"Have you found any other supplies you'll need?"
>"Suwako should be coming with flowers and seeds. Utsuho should be providing the magma."
>Give Alice a curious look.
>Nod.
>"Has she been holding up well?"
>"Yeah. That's one of the many reasons I wanted her here. Has she been able to contribute much to the planning?"
>"Good, good. Hey, you wouldn't happen to know where Marisa got off to, would you?"
> Smirk, and look for a fairy maid to ask if the Taoists are still here.
> Ah, if they're already here, then they know what's going on. Still, let's find and chat them up.
>"Hello, Seiga."
> Shake our head, and approach the Taoists.
> Nod to them. "Miko. Yoshika. Others. I guess you heard already?"
>"Good, good. I am going to warn you that the Myouren sect will be assisting as well. And I expect you both to play nice."
> Shrug. "If you say so. It's going to be a mess getting everyone organized enough as it is."
> "I... no. Definitely not when it's something this big. I've just had a rough last few days, that's all. I really appreciate all of you putting aside your differences for now."
>"Good. If there are problems, report them to me and I'll make sure whoever responsible gets tossed in the lake to cool off."
>Where have those incoming Myourens settled into?
>Let's go greet them.
>"That's fine, that's fine, that's fine as long as the rest show up eventually. Have you guys spoken with Patchouli yet?"
>Nod. "If there's anything you guys can do right now, I'm sure she'll get you to work on it right away."
>Once those two are gone, approach Kaguya. "And what've they got you up to?"
>"I imagine so, not to mention you've probably got some kind of useful experience."
>"So, what were you during the height of the flood? I came in a couple days ago, but Eirin wouldn't let me see you."
>"Oh. She seemed to imply you were busy with something."
>"Ah. Well, hopefully this'll be an alright reprieve, before things get busy and stressful."
>"So what were you doing?"
>"Heh, I figured as much. So who's holding it up now?"
>"Ah. I was thinking you guys were making Reisen do it or something."
>"I bet she'd agree. You know, I never really asked, how does that talent of yours work?"
>"What if it's something that's supposed to run out? Like pouring rice from a bag?"
>"That's amazing. So when you use it, nothing can change from the way it was before?"
>"Why do I get the feeling you've played some truly amazing practical jokes on people in the past?"
>"Please!"
>"Yeah, but I'll keep that in mind."
>"Quite. I'm gonna go see if I can find Marisa."
>"Thanks!"
>Head inside the mansion.
>"Thank you. Would either of you know where the Black-White is?"
>"That's what I figured. Thanks!"
>Head inside toward the basement.
>First, are there any signs of Marisa here in the library?
>If not, let's check that cellar.
>Ignore the maids and enter the cellar. Don't step on them or anything, though.
>"Sure, I can help out. Glad to see you're already part of the effort, Marisa."
>Does it look like there's enough to carry that it would harm our wrist?
>"Where does it go?"
>Move in and start to gather up some things.
>While doing so, maneuver close enough to Marisa that we can talk in a low tone without being overheard. "So, I hear a certain kappa might have her eye on you."
>"Not yet, but she wanted me to mention she's coming."
>Grin.
>"Got it. Want me to try and manipulate things so you can have rooms here that happen to be across the hall from each other?"
>Now we cannot suppress a good laugh.
>"Make me proud, Marisa."
>Head out to delivery our current load of stuff to Patchouli.
>"Yeah. And the others should be on the way."
> "To bring supplies? Orin's got the skulls, Okuu's bringing the magma, and the rest is coming in. To help with the spell? Just look outside."
>Didn't Orin already give her the skulls?
>Survey the crowd for new faces.
>"With luck we'll have a few more than that, too."
>"It may be a bit. Suwako will be a bit, and who knows when any of the Yakumos shall arrive."
>"Yeah. I would want at least Ran to look over everything before we start, as well."
>"Don't push yourself. We've got a few days, and I get the feeling we're going to need them. I'd trust Remilia to be a gracious hostess and keep them reasonably under control in the meantime. I'd go talk with her about it, but the wrist and all."
>"Please. In the meantime, I don't suppose Yuuka has shown her face at all, has she?"
>"Not surprising. So what's the story with her and Alice?"
>Nod.
>"I won't say a thing."
>"In the meantime, I best gather up the rest of that stuff."
>Back to the cellar.
>"Gathering it all up was that bad, eh?"
>Gather up a good but non-strenuous amount as we speak.
>Is there enough stuff that it would need a wheelbarrow to move it all?
>Moreover, could Orin actually get it into the cellar, or the manor at all?
>Are there any other stairs save for the ones leading into the cellar?
>"Wouldn't be able to get it too close with all the stairs, I imagine. But we could get it to the main entrance and save some trips, perhaps?"
>Head back outside and hunt down Orin.
>Call out: "Hey Orin! Think you can help us carry some stuff with your wheelbarrow?"
>"Alright, bring it over to the front stars of the library."
>Give her some quick directions if she asks for such, then go drop off this armload of supplies.
>Go meet Orin by those stairs.
> Open the doors for Orin and help her out.
>"We have to bring the up here because of the stairs."
>"Alright. The rest of the stuff is this way."
>Lead her toward the cellar once the wheelbarrow is parked.
>"Probably not."
>Gather up some stuff and haul it back.
>"Careful with that stuff!"
>Onward.
>Let Orin load it up first, so she can start another trip, then load it ourself.
>Let Orin handle this. We'll just make sure the faeries don't get into it.
>Nod.
>Follow that felis!
>Settle down near them.
>"There, that should be the lot of it, I think."
>"No problem, but Orin did the real work."
>"So, who showed up?"
>"Oh good, I've been wanting to talk with her."
>Head toward the crowds and see who all we can pick out. In particular, if Sanae is around.
>Let's approach Ran as well before things get nasty.
>"Well, if there's foul play, I can attest that Ran had nothing to do it with."
>"She wasn't there when the plan was made."
>"Let's talk about that access to Yukari. Where is she?"
>Gesture for her to give it to Suwako.
>"Does it work?"
>Snicker.
>"Sounded like mixed results."
>"I heard something about being watched."
>"I'd hope so. And would hope she'd speak up about it, however vain that is."
>Look to Ran. "So, did you tell her about our project?"
>"Good. In the meantime, what was your role in the raising of the original barrier?"
>"And how much of the original planning were you involved in?"
>"That's something. I want you to look over what we've found and the work we've done. My goal isn't just to make a new barrier, but rather use what we have to replace the existing one."
>"That's why the plan is to try and use this to repair the old one, rather than replace it. Hopefully, that'll be way less troublesome."
>"That's also part of the plan. But until she does, I'd like you to look over what we have so far. I get the feeling it's going to need, at least, some new components."
>Bring Ran to the planning table. Or wherever Patchouli put the stuff.
> "Probably? Let me take a look."
> Open the bag and peek inside.
>"Seems like! Thank you, Suwako."
>Hand the bag to Patchouli.
>"That'll be here none too soon, I hope. I may have to go see if Utsuho is having problems, though."
>"For Utsuho? Sure."
>Nod, and take position to keep an eye on things in the direction of the the entrance to the underground.
>Idly ponder if the water has receded enough to open up that tunnel to the reactor.
>As well, keep a vague on the other happenings and people coming in.
> Does Utsuho know where this mansion is?
>"There you are! I was wondering when you'd show up!"
>"Yep. But you first."
>"Yes, where is she?"
>"Okay, good."
>"Now, do you know what's going on here? I trust a reporter like you to have a handle on things."
>"Exactly, and I want your best and most knowledgeable scholars and magicians here to help. Especially any who know about the original border raising."
>"Bring some treats? Use your best judgment, I need to go find Okuu!"
>Take to the air and head for the entrance to the underground.
>"Hey!"
> "Aya just told me she saw you lounging around here. Need help finding the place?"
>"She's a tengu. And hey, is that jug giving you any trouble?"
>"Scarlet Devil Mansion. Come on, I'll show you the way."
>Make with the way-showing.
>Hunt down Patchouli, and ask, "Got the magma, where do you need it?"
>Gesture for Utsuho to put it over there.
>"So how does our work look to you, Ran?"
>"I suppose I could..."
>Take it, andpat her on the shouldergive her a sidehug.
>"Hey, you did a good job. Thanks."
>Examine, then open the package.
>Yes...
>Find a nice out of the way spot, and devour it.
>Let's head back toward to the mansion, and assuming things haven't caught fire at the gathering, go get something to drink inside.
>Let's go see how the gathering is going.
>Take stock of the crowd, see who else has arrived, if anyone.
>Let's approach the crowd.
>Approach.
>"So, did you both take care of the other problem?"
>"The crowd is fine, they have a role in this, too. Here, let me show you what we've worked out so far."
>Lead her to where the notes are. Or to Patchouli if we don't know.
>"Let's be kind. She was doing something useful for a change. Anyways, let's show her what we have."
>"They're my notes. But I was excepting you to build off of them, Patchouli."
>"What I want to do is use this to restore and repair the barrier as it is, rather than making a new one. Your Ran's had a look over it, so I'm sure she's had time to formulate some ideas."
>"Go on."
>"Good. And are we doing it correctly, so far? You talked about blood, right? How much do we need? And what kind, if not animal?"
>"I'll be the one who makes the contract. And if there's blood that's needed, it can be gotten. How much? As for the modifications, if it's not going to be able to repair the current barrier, then I've like it to be able to fuse with the current one."
>"It'll be a different barrier, so it's fine. I'll be the one who makes the contract. A successor will be found later, when it's proper."
>"Where are you going?"
>Nod.
>"Very well."
>Let Yukari leave, but keep an general eye upon her while attending to Patchouli. When we feel confident we can speak without Yukari overhearing, says, "You can spy on them, right? She's still doing it."
>"Trying to leverage this whole thing to her advantage."
>"By still insisting she gets what she wants out of this. And, if that's the case, don't worry about it."
>Just watch them, then.
>How does Sanae seem to be doing?
>Keep an eye on the Yakumos, but attend to Sanae when we can.
>She probably doesn't want to hear anything from us, but we still owe it to her.
>Float toward Sanae.
>"You did good."
>And with that, we'll leave her be unless she pushes further.
>"Rest up, and go home when you're ready. You've done all you needed to do. We'll handle the rest."
>"And thank you."
>Does she seem to be going anywhere?
>Return to Patchouli once this is ascertained.
>"Naw. Sanae is more important. She's had an awful couple of days, too."
>"Not my place to say."
>Continue to observe the Yakumos.
>"Looks like they're having fun, though."
>Wait for either of them to return, and brace self.
>"Already?"
>"Well, that's a little different than starting it."
>Clap our hands together loudly, and call out "Everyone! Gather around!"
>Does that include Sanae?
>"Okay, first thing I want to do is to thank everyone for coming out here to do this. It feels me with joy to see so many people come together to save our land. In particular, I want to thank Patchouli and Alice for their initial work, Koakuma for helping me to find the resources to get this started, and Remilia for graciously hosting us all."
>Might as well puff the vampire up a bit, perhaps it'll get her to go the extra mile with hospitality.
>"We're getting to the final stages of planning. Yukari and Ran are going to run us through it all. I want you all paying close attention, if there is a flaw in it now is the time to speak up."
>Try to subtly catch Eirin and Byakuren's eyes while speaking at this point.
>"After that, we'll start to divvy out who fulfills what role, and figure out precisely when we shall do this thing. I don't want anyone running off, even if it seems like you have nothing to do. At the worst, we might need you for a replacement. Now, let's get to the meat of this."
>Look to Ran.
>"I'll be taking care of any contracts that need to be signed. Blood or otherwise."
>"Do we have enough people, or should I try to fetch some more? Or more to the point, is there anyone who could fill a spot nicely that is missing?"
>Did Iku or any other celestial types ever show up? Or anyone from Higan?
>"Would more people be helpful in general, at least? I want to spread out the load as lightly as possible."
>"I'll see about dragging in a few more people."
>If no one else seems to have any questions, says, "Looks like we're ready to get down to finer details."
>"Yeah, and laying out the exact plan."
>"I am going to try to find a few more, in a bit. Will you be needing me for anything in the immediate future?"
>"I've got a quick one or two in mind. But first I want to hear what you've got."
>"And what's wrong with my blood?"
>"Okay, so why is someone else's needed?"
>"I suppose we should skip to the important part, then. This new barrier will be ultimately connected to me and me alone, right?"
>"Not under these circumstances. But I've put thought into it, don't worry."
>"I'll handle it."
>"I want to hear what you'll be laying to everyone, first, so I have it all together in my head."
>"That's good. I'll observe, though. "
>Observe!
>While at this point, we don't expect any funny business, do keep half an ear out for it. But really, the goal here is to just to have a complete picture of what's going on.
>Seems good.
>Flag down Marisa, away from the crowd.
>Gesture for her to follow us, while we head toward and into the mansion.
>"As much as I hate to say it, there's someone else who should be here, don't you think?"
>"Mhm. So where did she run off to, anyways?"
>"Oh, I'm not talking about her. I'm talking about someone else you know that's been missing, for a long time now. Though...Yuka was going to be the other person I'd ask..."
>"Your old boss."
>"Might as well. As much of a pain in the butt as she was, she'd be helpful in this situation."
>"I was hoping you kept in touch and didn't talk about it. Well. Only one other person that I know knew her, and we're about to go wake her up."
>Toward the greenhouse.
>"It's unlikely, but she's the only person I can think of. They were kinda like rivals at one point, weren't they? Something like that."
>Enter the greenhaus.
>Head though the tunnel.
>"They probably aren't."
>Call out: "Hey! Yuuka! You're going to miss out on helping Alice in her big moment!"
>Sigh. Then look for a clod of loose dirt without rocks or the like and toss it at her. Try to hit her in the butt or torso with it, somewhere where it isn't going to do any harm.
>"Sorry about that. Alice is working on a fairly big project and is going to want your help."
>"And we have a question. Do you have any idea where Mima vanished to?"
>Glance toward Marisa. "What do you think?"
>"I did. We tried to wake you up other ways, and it wasn't working."
>Do be ready to move if she tries something. We didn't manage to dodge through all the things we have by being a scrub.
>"Just consider it an excuse to have Alice dust you off."
>"This way."
>Lead her out. And while leaving, say, "Essentially, we've begun to undergo a significant project to restore the barrier. Just about everyone who's everyone has gathered to assist with effort in some way or another. You ought to be pleased to know that Alice is one of the central architects behind it, and I'm sure she's going to want your support."
>"As many people as we can get. The more powerful, the better. That's why I asked about Mima. Awful as she was, she'd be a big help."
>"I wasn't kidding when I said as many as I can get. Alice should be over there."
>Direct her to the proper group.
>"She was outnumbered. Which is a large part of why I drug you along. But I figured saying that would catch her attention and divert it to important things."
>"I hope, anyways. I'm going to go follow up on it."
>Scan the crowd. Has Yuyuko or any Higan-looking people showed up?
>"Well, if they don't need you for the next while."
>Stride out in the general direction of Higan; give Marisa ample time to check and catch up. Or indicate that she's needed.
>Nod, and take flight toward Higan.
>Approach dat gondolier!
>"Sorry, I had to get back to the meeting and help plan and arrange things."
>"Okay. I have a way you can help at the moment. Ever hear of Mima?"
>"Because I've had to whup her once or twice. What is she doing over there?"
>"Huh. Is there a large number of souls awaiting judgement?"
>"Don't suppose you could drag her back over for a couple days?"
>"Wonder why they don't annoint more yamas to handle the workload."
>"Well, would you like to spend a couple days helping us with the mass ritual?"
>Let's not change the subject til it's done.
>"Really? It seems like you were given clearance to do it, weren't you? I mean, you're allowed to help out on your own, right?"
>"Okay, then that's no good. How about this?"
>"Could you let slip to Mima about what's going on. And coincidentally, she happens to find her way back by stowing away on your boat while you're, I dunno, getting a new oar or something? I mean, that wouldn't be your fault, right? ...Assuming she even needs a boat, I suppose. And, you know, you don't directly tell her to do it. Just maybe suggest it'd be real good karma if someone did something like that? I'm sure she'd jump at the chance to move up from being reincarnated as a slug to possibly being reincarnated as a toad."
>"I'll do what I can. Obviously, I'm trusting your best judgment on how to proceed with that. If you have to abort, that's fine."
>"And, one more question. I suppose you can answer it if you were able to answer the last one. Have a Tamiko Hakurei or a Souji <Surname> passed through here?"
>"Mmm. So, you probably wouldn't remember anything she said, huh?"
>"Not terribly surprising, that. I always thought you could talk with ghosts, though."
>"I guess only the Yama gets to do that, huh?"
>Nod. "And, I don't know how much this is bending the rules, if you could find out what happened with regards to Tamiko and tell me, that'd be nice. There's a few mysteries that only she can really answer. But, if that can't be done, don't worry about it. It's probably not as important as everything else."
>"Scarlet Devil Mansion. I wrote it in the sand, but I guess I didn't make the lines deep and wide enough."
>"Alright. And, thank you."
>Back to SDM.
>Let's approach Ran and Keine.
>"Hey! Things been alright while I was away?"
>"Higan. There's hopefully an extra hand or two on the way."
>Nod.
>"Alright, you do that. And if you can, send Akyuu this way? I want a detailed recording of this."
>"Is there anything that I need to be doing right now?"
>"I might. Is there a time set when I will be needed?"
>Nod.
>"Alright. I may try to find one or two more in the meantime."
>Look around. Do we see any celestial types around? Or Oarfish types?
>Nod.
>"Alright."
>Make proper parting words, and go find Suwako.
>Does Suwako seem to be too busy to disturb?
>"Hey, Suwako. Remind me, did you end up talking to the celestials about this?"
>Groan.
>"Well. You had a good reason for it."
>"I'll do it. They have you working on things."
>"In the meantime, how's Sanae been holding up?"
>"I told her she did well, and once she's rested up she can head home. So, I imagine she either wants to see how it's going to turn out, she wants to help, or she's afraid something is going to happen."
>Nod.
>"And I need to go find some celestials. Keep up the good work here!"
>Take to the air, and toward Bhava-Agra.
>Keep going til we hit the one where we've encountered Iku in the past.
>Oh god, this actually is lucky. What has the world come to.
>"Hey!"
>Fly closer.
>"We're all working on a big ritual, and I was wondering if you and Iku wanted to help out."
>"We're fixing the barrier."
>"The person I sent to invite you folks got distracted. So now I'm here."
>"Scarlet Devil Mansion."
>"HEY GET BACK HERE!"
>"I'm not done yet!"
>"First off, where's Iku at? I want to invite her, too. And any celestials that would have knowledge or skills useful to raising the barrier."
>"Well then, let's go find her."
>Follow dem peaches!
>Home in on the scarf, unless Tenshi seems to be ignoring it.
>"Sorry to bother you. Any word on The Dragon God?"
>"Didn't think so. Regardless, we're taking matters into our own hands, and trying to raise a new barrier to merge with the current one. I'd like you to assist, if you can."
>"Before we go, do you know any other celestials who may have the knowledge, skill, or raw power to help out with this task? Or have any records of the original Hakurei Barrier's creation around somewhere?"
>"Tenshi is really the strongest celestial you have?"
>"A small army of capable people. More is better, it'll let us spread out the work load so that no one gets overpowered."
>How did Iku take that question?
>"What's the problem, Iku?"
>Groan.
>"I think I'm starting to mirror Tenshi's thoughts on them. Anyways, if you're both ready?"
>Unless Iku indicates otherwise, descend back down to SDM.
>Have a look around, have any new faces shown up?
>Approach Komachi, and if we catch her eye, indicate that we want to speak away from the group.
>"Heh. Not too surprising. I wonder what would happen if some of them did find out?"
>"Who knows how ghosts think? Well, if they are going to show up, let's hope they do it soon."
>"About that matter I asked about, regarding Tamiko? Was there any news there?"
>"That's honestly more than I expected to find out about what happened, anyways. I suppose we'd have to ask the yama herself for anything more."
>"I know, I know. And I wouldn't blame you if you didn't bother at all. Still, thank you."
>Nod.
>Now, let's go find Eirin, and if we can, lure her out for a chat.
>"So what do you think about this so far?"
>"That's part of why I've been gathering up so many people, so we can spread the load out and make sure no one's doing too much casting at once. But, do you have any ideas for further protection?"
>"That'd be good. Do you need anything for it?"
>"Related to that, there's someone else we could get to help, don't you think?"
>"You guys still have connections to the Lunar Capital, as I recall. And I most definite recall that swordswoman there."
>"I think she'd be interested for a very particular reason."
>Subtly gesture toward Yukari.
>"Payback."
>"Heh. I can't think of a better way to get even with her than to imply she needs help. Because she, and we, do."
>"Ask her to bring some of that Lunarian food with her? And tell her it'd mean a lot to me if she came."
>"So you do have a faster way to talk with them than sending rabbits between here and there. I always wondered about that."
>Nod.
>"I hope so. Thank you."
>"Let's."
>With that done, let's just observe things for awhile. Keep a discreet eye on Sanae, and a less discreet one on the skies for new arrivals.
>Watch people filter in for a bit, and see if Sanae figures out what she wants to do. If she doesn't after about half the people are in, approach.
>"Wanna head in?"
>Walk in with her.
>"Did Yukari ask you to hang around?"
>"What happened?"
>"I wonder who gets all the good guest rooms?"
>"And I'm guessing Yukari said you were imaging things?"
>"Mmm. Think we ought to have a look around tonight, and make sure everything is okay?"
>"Okay. Let's meet up at that shrine, the one where Kasen likes to hide."
>Yeah, lets go collect up some sleeping gear. Then maybe hunt down something to eat.
>Let's get a decent meal off that cart, trying not to take too much. Then set up shop...hmmm, let's say near the greenhouse, but opposite of Sanae. A comfortable distance away.
>How are Satori's pets doing? Try to indicate they should set up close by so we can keep an eye on them.
>Oh well. Let them have their fun. In the meantime, we can have dinner.
>Survey the events going on for a few moments. If nothing seems especially troubling or interesting, it is probably time for bed.
>"Guh?"
>Look around.
>"Yeah, I think so. Just a bit dazed."
>Stand up and brush self off. "It's weird to drift off, then suddenly get yanked somewhere else?"
> If Sanae was over by the broom, who grabbed our wrist?
>"They mention the hand that grabs them by the wrist?"
>"No problem. I just wanted to be sure it was your hand and not someone else's."
>"So, there were two places I saw trouble. Technically three, I suppose. Anyways, the big one was inside this shrine."
>"One was your shrine, while you were away and the upper floor turned into a weird empty void. The other was in that town that way.
>Point in the proper direction
>"Where the mural showed up, the one with the gap between the two worlds."
>"Here, I'll show you were I found the problem in this shrine."
>Head inside, and head toward The Room.
>Quietly: "This was where I found it. Purified it out, though."
>Nod.
>"Me either, but you're better at dreams than me, so I figured it would be a good idea to show you."
>"Before, it was pretty bad."
>Start heading out.
>"You walked into it, and it felt like walking into a murder scene or something."
>"They didn't, actually. Not until I brought it to their attention, anyways."
>Which is closer, assuming geography hasn't changed, the mural or the other shrine?
>"Yep, this way."
>Take to the air and head toward the mural.
>Approach the wall as well.
> "The mural is right on that wall, with a dandelion growing in front of it. I showed it to Yukari already."
> "You okay?"
>"Mmm. Yukari seemed to like what she saw. After I showed it to her, she went right after you."
>"Also, you get different feelings if you touch it in different places. But what I want to know is where it came from."
>Nod.
>"Think we can just purify it? Or is there some dream-specific thing we can do?"
>"Huh. I figured it'd be more burned in, like a curse or something."
>Nod.
>"Good job. I don't even see an outline from here."
>Get a closer look, to make sure there aren't any tenacious chalk marks left. Feel along it, too, to make sure we don't experience those sensations anymore.
>"Yep, it's gone. I don't feel anything."
>Presumably out intuition and such isn't bothering us?
>"Alright, the other place I found weirdness was your shrine."
>Presuming no objections, let's move out in that directions.
> Did we ever tell Sanae about when part of the village in this world was crystallized?
>Follow along with her!
>"It was like that last time I was here, too."
>Let's make our way toward the window we smashed out, and see if it's still smashed.
>Presumably there is no darkness on the upper floors?
>Hover up there and have a look inside, just to see if anything pricks at our intuition.
>Call down. "Nothing seems amiss right now, at least."
>Ponder. Do we recall anything else that struck us as wrong or creepy about this place?
>"I can't think of anything else. But with that mural thing, we know something's up."
>"It gets to you that bad, huh?"
>"Well, I can't say anything about that. You've got a way better idea of what's happening than I do on some level; I didn't feel anything from that mural."
>"No, I've had times like that."
>"Those are feelings you have to listen to when you're a shrine maiden."
>"Times I felt like that. Well...I ever tell you about the time Remilia drug us all to the moon?"
>"There was someone there who definitely gave me that kind of feeling when I had to face her. Not the same way you're talking about, but like that. Heh, if you're lucky, you might just get to meet her for yourself tomorrow."
>Follow her up.
>"Well...there was Shinki, too. Yuuka wasn't exactly good for the nerves first time I dealt with her, either. Spellcards did a whole lot to take the edge off that. Though I'll tell you what, meeting Utsuho for the first time gave me a bit of worry, too."
>"Yeah, she's a good kid now that she's calmed down a bit."
>Examine the view while speaking. Does anything jump out at us?
>"So why did that one town turn into crystal, anyways?"
>Gesture toward the town in question.
>"I suppose that's true Just glad there's apparently nothing sinister behind it."
>Can we pick out where the Hakurei shrine used to be from here?
>"I want to go see where Tamiko's shrine was again. Want to come with?"
>Let's head that way.
>En route: "Hey, have you ever spoken with anyone else about all this dream stuff before?"
>"Well, this place managed to include my mother, who's been dead since before you could read, so I think it's not just figments of your imagination. About the only person I could recommend to talk to about this would be Yuuka, she's messed around with dream world stuff before. Managed to carve herself out a mansion in the middle of it, somehow."
>Proceed toward the hill.
>Try not to inhale the seeds.
>"I...think she still has it? I don't know. No one wants to go to Yuuka's home. As for this place, it's where Tamiko and her shrine was."
>Roam the hill a little bit ourself, see if there's anything that catches our eye.
>"You don't feel anything interesting around here, do you?"
>Just have a seat in the dandelions, then, about where we think the entrance would have been, according to what we were told.
>"Oh well. It's still something, just being here."
>"Yeah. Interested in knowing what happened? I only just learned it myself."
>"Never met her. When I was born, apparently she shipped me off underground and got Konngara to watch over me. Heh, and this was back before people were able to go down there. Spent, oh, probably a good twelve years down there. Then she went and got herself killed trying to unleash the power of the Hakurei Orb."
>"That's what I'd like to know. But I suspect I already know why: The reason I didn't remember any of this til just a bit ago was because Yukari took it all away from me. You don't think about it much when you're a kid, then you just sort of assume that you forgot."
>"Oh it gets better. When I cornered her about it, the hag gloated about what a great job she did and how she would have destroyed my memories entirely if she could."
>"Because she's a horrible old hag whose only joy in life is manipulating others. Which is why she pretended to be my friend for all those years, and why the first thing she proposed to deal with this whole situation was to to remove you from the picture. I'm absolutely convinced Yukari's the one who drove my mother to commit suicide, simply so she could say she made one choice that was her own."
>"Which part?"
>"Me too. She'll probably try to spin some story about how it was all for the good of Gensokyo. Until you look at just how well she actually acts for the good of Gensokyo and realize it's just an excuse. Heh, she might even believe it."
>"I suspect her familiars are aware, if not to the full extent of it. Ran knew she stole my memories, at least. Yuyuko...might, I'm not sure. She definitely knows that Yukari schemes, but seemed at least a little surprised by this story. But who knows? It's hard to tell with the likes of her. After that, I wouldn't know."
>Alone and Kogasa huh. At least put some effort into blowing us off...
>"Right. I might come after you if I come up with anything worthwhile. If not, I dunno, I'll probably be here."
>Settle back and rest for a little bit.
>If nothing really catches our attention within, say, ten minutes, let's try to conjure up Compass again.
> "Hey, caw at me twice if you remember that mural, the one with the two worlds and the gap."
>"Is there anything else like that around? One caw for no, two for yes. Please don't shriek at me."
>"Does that mean maybe?"
>"Okay, give me a moment, to get ready, then show me where you're finding something."
>As we are feeling too lazy to get up, let's just imagine up a bed that's under us. A flying bed, so we can travel properly. Once we have it airborne, direct Compass to do her thing, and the bed to keep pace with her.
>"Ugh..."
>Sit up and look around.
>Let's have a look at this bike.
>"Is this it?"
>Touch one of the wing designs lightly.
>"Good job. Can you detect any others?"
>"Is that a yes?"
>Pet the birdie.
>"I can't tell what you mean, I'm afraid. Let's stay with two caws for yes, and one for no. And three for maybe."
>"Are we too close to this one for you to tell?"
>"Mmm. Okay."
>Let's try to conjure up a pen and a nice sheet of paper.
>Quickly write a message that says: "I think I found another thing like that mural. Tell this crow when you're ready and she'll bring you to me."
>Roll up the message and offer it to Compass. "I want you to go find Sanae, give her this message, then lead her here when she tells you she's ready, okay."
>Nothing else for it. Might as well collapse back into bed and watch the clouds for a bit.
>Sit up and glance toward the rattling.
>Does this person look familiar at all?
>"Hey, you. Did you make that chalk mural ealier?"
>"Well?"
>Hop to our feet. Don't be threatening about it, but try to get a good read of her face and such. And be wary if she's up to something.
>"And you're going to get exterminated if you try that again! What's the big idea?!"
>"Found who? And why?"
>"Not immediately..."
>Back away calmly and steadily.
>We do remember this, right? If so, what do we recall about that encounter?
>"So what are you doing here?"
>"Why?"
>"You ... think humans are descended from oni?"
>"I meant why are you following me! Stop being evasive and tell me the whole story already."
>What do we know about this customer (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6iJRNHUOT4)'s background?
>"How about we start with that part, then. Who are you?"
>"That's not very informative. Keep going."
>"I have no idea who or what you are, or why I should consider you anything other than a crazy stalker and possibly killer. The fact you're not being forthcoming about all this isn't helping things."
>"This isn't encouraging me to think you're someone I should leave running around."
>Glance up just for a second to confirm whether or not it is Sanae.
>Assuming it is, immediately chase after Sariel. "Get back here!"
>In the past, we have created a favorable tailwind to speed us along. Let us do the opposite; create an unfavorable headwind to come at Sariel from the front and slow her down to a snail's pace, if not completely blow her off course.
>Be sure to ease the effect away before it hits us, though.
>Give ourself a good tailwind, then, and estimate if we can catch her like this before she reaches the tunnel, and how much time we'll have before she reaches it.
>Dodge around the bullets as they come, and take this time to imagine that the tunnel is completely filled with concrete. Not just at the entrance; the whole way through.
>"Maybe I should've used feathers."
>Glance back for a second, any sign of Sanae following?
>Then return attention to the cave in. Do we see anything like motion?
>"So, are you ready to behave?"
>Imagine some of the rubble vanishing, enough to let Sariel get some air.
>Remove all of the rubble at once; and at the same time imagine a twenty feet thick steel wall at the end of the tunnel.
>"You're making a really lousy case for yourself, dummy!"
>Let's try being more direct. While she's working on that steel, imagine a big ole disembodied hand appearing and grabbing her around the waist, and dragging her back to the entrance. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLUL_NM8CtA)
>Imagine the steel regrowing faster than she can tear through it.
>"I'm about to get mad."
>Have it regenerate faster.
>And send some sealing needles right at her back and all those goofy wings.
>Imagine the corridor to be twice as long, and toss more needles at her. Close in a bit.
>Close in, but be wary of counterattacks. Lead in with flurry of talismans.
>Send more needles after her and chase.
>"Hold still!"
>That's how she wants to play, keep the needles coming. Widen them out a little bit so they're as likely to hit her wings and make the whole spray harder to macro-dodge.
>Let's see if we can make that hand trick work this time.
>Sigh.
>Go speed after her; do the favorable tailwinds thing, we know that's worked here.
>Just dive after the stupid jerk, then.
>Grab her around the waist, heft her over our shoulder, and fly back up.
>Get her the tunnel entrance and flop her onto it. Then flop ourselves nearby and rest.
>Be wary of Sariel stirring.
>"I'm fine! It's clear!"
>Rest up and let Sanae approach. Keep a wary eye on Sariel.
>"So, I'm pretty sure I found our mural maker. Also I think she lives on chocolate cake, because she weighs a ton."
>Dangit Sanae, you're impossible to quip with.
>"Me too. This is Sariel. She's...I don't know what her problem is, honestly. She wasn't making a lot of sense when I talked with her, and the moment she saw you she took off running."
>"I'm sure we can get Sakuya to whip up one. And yeah, she's not one of yours. I met her once before, a long time ago when I was just starting out as a Shrine Maiden."
>Now that we have a bit more relaxed of a circumstance, let's try to recall the details of that encounter more fully.
>"I kinda made this tunnel fill up with concrete. And she kinda didn't stop in time. She'll be fine, though. She's a youkai."
>Do we know how to make a talisman that would depower or imprison a youkai if applied correctly?
>"No idea, but I'm going to seal up her power a bit to make sure she behaves."
>Let's conjure up what we need to make a depowering talisman and get to work on it. Make it a headband. Sariel can do with one of those.
>Set it in place on Sariel.
>"There. That should keep her behaving."
>"Huh. That's was more dramatic than I expected. Hope it doesn't turn her into an idiot like Rumia is, I still have questions."
>"I dunno. Think we ought to drag her back and maybe put her somewhere comfortable?"
> "I don't disagree: she's not from here, anyways."
> Do we remember what else was going on when we ran into Sariel? Was Mima stirring up trouble around that time, too?
> "Hey, another thing. She said I was an astral projection. What difference does that make around here?"
> "Yeah... she said that she had been looking for me or my successor, and didn't expect me to be, well, me, I guess. I don't know why she'd look in here for me, though..."
> "Wait. She said the oni wasn't as interesting... I wonder if she tried something with little Konngara."
>"Meet me back at the tunnel entrance!"
>Speaking of, might as well drag Sariel back there. Let's do that hand thing and saunter back.
>"Find something?"
> "A hand. They're things used to carry other things. You might be passingly familiar with them."
> Let's head Li'l Konkon-wards.
>"I meant meet me after you got back. Oh well, let's go."
>Follow Sanae, and have the hand keep pace with us.
>Have a quick look; is the bicycle still at the base of the stairs?
>"Hey, Konngara!"
>"Everything alright?"
>"Don't worry about her. She's just some idiot."
>"Sorry about that."
>Look toward Sariel.
>"You know what happened last time you did that, right? Let's not have to do it again."
>"My job. Now, play nice and I might even take it off."
>"Not til I say you do. You still have a whole lot of explaining to get through."
>Chase, and make with the needles.
>"Don't even think it!"
>Imagine a hand to grab her by the feet and hold her in place.
>Jerk her back and toward us. Should she try to fire danmaku and succeed, dodge and have the hand give her a good shake.
>"Now I am upset, Sariel."
>Does she seem like she's drowning, or just inconvenienced?
>"Hey Sanae, think you can give her an airhole?"
>"Now. As I was saying, Sariel, I am growing upset. And you're making a very poor impression on Sanae, as well."
>"What's the hurry?"
>"Unfortunately, you've given me little guarantee that you're going to behave, and you've put Sanae through quite a lot of worry. Now explain before I get angry and seal you in a soup tureen."
>"Pray you don't find out. And explain again, but better."
>Does Sanae seem to be doing anything about that tear?
>"I have no idea what you said after me being asleep."
> "How does that even figure into what we're talking about now?"
> "Well, I guess with how it is through that tunnel, that could be 'stars'... uh... I dunno. You said a nebula's where stars are born, right? Then I guess the nebula for this world, created by you, and Gensokyo, made by the sages, is... the Outside World? Does that even make sense?"
>"I kinda think she's making stuff up. What's this space, for instance?"
>"How's that different from the sky, though?"
>"Isn't the Moon was in the sky? It took us like two weeks to get there, and there was just sky the whole way. Heh, I remember when Sakuya opened the window and it got real windy."
>"I think it's probably just different in Gensokyo. Anyways, we're getting off topic."
>"Why exactly are you trying to find me, Sariel?"
>"Now we're getting somewhere. Tell me about these ruins?"
>"Pretend I have. And pretend you're explaining it to Sanae for the first time."
>"Sounds pretty dreary. Why are you waiting there? You said something about the end before, but why?"
>How did we get there, anyways? Could we do it again?
>"Why is that?"
>"I suppose pressing you further there wouldn't turn up anything. So, how come no one else has found these ruins, then?"
>"Right, right. And then afterward you left, huh? I guess I'm the first person you ever really met?"
>"So how'd you get out? Are you even allowed to do that?"
>"Surely you can answer the first half of that, if you think you can go back?"
>"Okay, next question. Why did you run off when Sanae came?"
>"Yeah, but that's no reason to run. Especially if you've barely met anyone. You ought to be relishing the chance."
>"What about me?"
>"I can't. I have people I need to help. And, honestly, I don't think I can get back there so easily."
>Glance over toward Sanae: "What do you think? Does she still give you the willies?"
>Nod to Sanae. "Yeah. It's not that her heart's in the wrong place. Rather, her head's not really screwed on right."
>Then look back to Sariel: "You're jumping to conclusions, though. That doesn't mean we can't work something out."
>"Well, I'm going to have to wake up, sooner or later. But there should be time to work something out."
>"Okay, Sanae, here's a question. Is it still a problem if she stays or visits, assuming she behaves?"
>Nod, then look back to Sariel.
>"Okay. Let's say we let you go, what are you going to do?"
>"Okay. That sounds pretty long and fruitless, don't you think? And even if you got yourself there, there would be trouble. And you can't go back home, right?"
>"Because there is something else you could do, and some things you need to do. But let's be sure, you aren't certain you can even get home anymore?"
>To Sanae: "Trying to conjure up a staff."
>"So that staff is what gets you back, huh?"
>"I'm a shrine maiden. Sealing troublemakers is what what I do. But as I said, if you behave and Sanae is convinced, I might remove the seal."
>Glance to Sanae.
>"Not yet, Sariel. Let me tell you why."
>"The problem is is that you don't play nice. When things go wrong, rather than talking it out or using your head, you immediately either run away or start throwing danmaku. This whole thing could have been avoided if you were just a bit smarter about things, do you understand me?"
>"Part of that problem is that you don't know how to deal with people. And, if we're going to ever meet, we're going to have to work on that. Until you do, you're just too dangerous to trust."
>"That's what we're discussing, Sariel. There may be something we can do for you. But, it's going to require you to learn how to behave around people."
>"Sure. No problem. Wanna see if we can trust her to take herself there?"
>"This is part one of your training on dealing with people. Follow us."
>Nod to Sanae.
>Make sure that hand's gone, too.
>"This way!"
>Head to the shrine.
>"We had to have a heart to heart talk with one friend here."
>Look back to Sariel: "You've done well so far. Now, I want you to try a new thing. Introduce yourself to Konngara, but I want you to think about how she feels, and then tailor your introduction to be as friendly as you can make it."
>"You're doing fine, Sariel. But if you don't want people to touch you, you can just ask them not to."
>"Hey, go get her some towels, Konngara."
>Let's try not to think about how weird it is to boss her around what with the things we've just learned...
>"Yep, you're already getting the hang of it."
>"So, did you even get to see what goes on outside your shrine, or were you totally cut off?"
>"Okay, that's something to do, at least. I guess that means you've spent enough time watching people to have a good general idea of how they interact?"
>"Well. It's something. Aside from Sanae and me, have you spoken with or watched anyone else around here?"
>"Did you watch them, at least?"
>"Well, those are going to be your next tasks, when the time comes. Watch people and interact with them on a small basis. This place isn't quite like the real world, but it's pretty close. And there's your towels."
>"Out of curiosity, have you managed to find anyplace else besides here?"
>"What happened to it?"
>Glance toward Sanae in question.
>Nod.
>"Guess it must have become a shooting star. Anyways, do you have any place to stay, or rest?"
>"...How do you rest, then?"
>"A thing you sleep in. You don't sleep, do you?"
>"So, do you just fall over or something?"
>"And you've never watched how a person sleeps in your shrine?"
>"In a bed?"
>"Not just anywhere, it's bad for you."
>Nod.
>"Yeah. Just someone place to stay in general."
>"I'm okay with that."
>Is Konngara still around? If so, is she paying attention?
>"Hey Konngara! Is Kikuri around anywhere?"
>"Bring her over here, if you could?"
>"Hey, Kikuri. Care to take on a border?"
>"She's a lost traveler, one who's been cut off from society pretty much all her life."
>Can we tell if Kikuri is aware or not?
>"Probably awhile. Until she settles into dealing with people on a regular basis."
>"You tell me? How long does it take to teach someone how to be functionally civilized? I guess until she feels she can live elsewhere and move out?"
>"Thanks, that'll help out a lot."
>We'll overlook the whole attempted murder thing. A little bit.
>"She'll probably be a handful for a bit. But I think you can keep her under control."
>"It's still a little hairy, but I think we're finally getting things under control. How are things underground?"
>"I'm curious about that mural she made, but we kinda got sidetrekked by more important things."
>"Geez, We weren't here that long, were we?"
>"No, just we haven't been here that long, it's only been a couple hours..."
>"What a pain. Suppose I best get up and get ready to deal with the day."
>"I'll try not to be too loud."
>Do the pinchy thing.
>Sit up and have a look around.
>Let's try to extract ourself from bed without waking anyone.
>Make our way toward Sakuya, and ask "What'd I miss?"
>Nod.
>"Thank you. Did anyone else show up overnight?"
>"Disappointing, I was hoping for at least one new face."
>"Leave her for now, She's doing important things."
>Can we see if anyone is outside through a nearby window from here?