>An actual dream? A world of our own?>It certainly appears that way,,,
>Establish that, first things first, I'm the realest, in case we get confused with fake Maribels.
>Imagine a dream Renko.>You conjure up a dream Renko, who immediately smiles at you.
>Hold Renko's hand.>"I'm sure you'd find a way" says Dream Renko, "Who knows what you can do with your powers in time..."
>"The family thing... I meant to ask about children. How my family could continue if I couldn't have a child of my own, being with you."
>"These powers do seem strange... Being able to go to a world like Gensokyo from our world... I wonder if it's possible to go from this dream to the real world...">"I dunno. Give it a try..." Dream Renko suggests.
>"Trying to not just think up a dream equivalent to the room might be tricky, but maybe I can find a way around it.">You create a gap... But it suddenly catches fire...
>Attempt to make a gap to Ran's room.
>Jump a bit, then observe the fire.>The fire consumes the gap and hovers in the air a bit. Before quickly expanding, setting the beautiful field alight as the sky turns red and the creek begins to evaporate...
>Retreat back to Renko.>You turn back to dream Renko to see the horrible sight of her flesh falling off in large chunks as she slowly begins to melt into the ground. Eventually her entire skull is exposed and it stares into your eyes with empty sockets before Dream Renko disintegrates into a pile of ash as the fire threatens to consume everything.
>"R-Renko ! Are you okay ?!"
>Try willing the fire in this dream to put out and stop it.
>"Renko?">You embrace Renko.
>Hug Renko tightly.
>"Oh thank GOD that was just a dream. Ahhh... I-It was terrible Renko."
>"It was a beautiful field and we were together, then i tried to make a gap and everything went to flames, i was so horrified, and suddenly Yuugen was there asking me about how did it feel killing her..."
>Sob.
>"It was so... vivid.">You start crying.
>Hold Renko in return.>"Yeah... You can say that again..."
>"I don't know. It sure felt like one. I don't want any more bad things happening like they've been so far. We've been through enough already."
>"I... I can't even remember the last time I had a dream, either. I-it didn't seem right. Maybe YuugenMagan isn't really gone...!">"But she exploded! Both of us saw it. I doubt she could come back from that..."
>"I don't know... Maybe she has not really exploded but just temporarily lost her stable form... Anyway, "if" YuugenMagan is still alive and want to get revenge on me, then she will get same treatment as last time. At least in reality. Because when that fire appeared in my dream I was unable to control it anymore."
//Hey ! A new face around here ! Welcome !//Actually, he's not new. He was around for a short part of Act II - Part 2
>"Nobody should betray you and force you to fight the sister of your girlfriend...."
>Hug her back.>You continue to embrace each other for a while.
>"Thank you Renko...."
>"Right.">You grab your hat and satchel and put on your shoes. After Renko does the same, you open the door and head downstairs.
>Grab our hats, shoes and satchels, then open the door and head downstairs.
>"Breakfast ? Let's take a look.">You head into the neighboring room.
>Head to the supposed kitchen.
>'Cooking'?>She's cooking, but she's being rather sloppy about it. The countertop is a mess, and the plates she has prepared on it so far are done so haphazardly. She seems to be frying some kind of fish right now...
>"Good morning everyone !">Sumireko looks over to you and smiles, "Oh, good morning Maribel and Renko, did you sleep well?"
>Wave and smile.
>"A bucket of ice would've seemed fitting, heh.">"Oh?" Yukari asks.
>"Well.... it was fine for a while, but then it turned into a nightmare... everything started burning, and then she was there, that person that imprisoned you and Matenshi, and killed Sariel....">"A nightmare, huh?" Sumireko frowns, "I guess the events of yesterday finally caught up to you, huh? How else would she have appeared in your dreams? Huh...? Matenshi, are you okay...? Oh... I don't think she meant to bring it up..."
>Look down.
>We probably should've just said YuugenMagan instead of emphasizing it...
>Just saying the name is like a spike to the backspine though...
>Then listing her crimes to affected ones would be...>You think you should've mentioned YuugenMagan by name, rather than bringing up the death of Matenshi's mother
>"Sorry... i didn't mean to...">"She says its fine..."
>Take a deep breath.>"Yeah, we did. Thank you."
>"W-What about you ? Did you have a nice night of sleep ?"
>"Um...">You turn to look at the kitchen and Chen.
>Head to the kitchen.
>"Chen i think the food is burning."
>Sad face.>"B-But it still looks edible..." Her ears droop as you pet her.
>"Ummm, can we really eat this ? Not to insult you dear, but it looks like it is too burnt...."
>Pet Chen.
>Aw.....can't...disappoint....cute Chen...>You take a piece of fish and bite it.
>"Okay, i will have a bite then dear."
>Eat a small piece of it.
>How hungry are we, anyway? After eating the piece of fish, that is.>You're a bit hungry.
>Smile.>Chen's ears perk up as you ruffle her hair.
>"Well i was wrong, this is quite good, good job little Chen !"
>Rub her hair.
>"Don't worry, i am sure that with practice you can become just as good as her, or maybe even better.">You offer a bit of your piece to Renko. Who takes it.
>Offer it to Renko.
>"Try it Renko, it might be burnt, but it still tastes nice."
>Take a look at what hit the table.>You look at the table to see the plate in front of Yukari, who has gone back to reading the newspaper.
//It was probably Yukari being lazy and gapping the plate to the table.>You set your plate down on the table, before turning to grab another for Sumireko/Matenshi and setting it in front of them.
>Nod.
>"Thank you dear."
>Head back to the table and put it down, then return to get a plate for Sumitenshi too.
>"Has anything interesting happened in the news?">Yukari hands you the newspaper, "Oh, I wasn't paying attention to the actual news, I was looking at page 3... If you want to know the news why not take a look yourself?"
>Recall our encounter with Aya and hope that neither of us are mentioned...>You really hope neither of you are in there...
>Flip to page 3.>You flip to the third page.
>Search for ours...>You scan for yours and Renko's. Thankfully, they don't seem to be on here...
>And Renko's.
>"I-I-I...... why i-is this even allowed ?!?">"What? You have to admit the tengu is a pretty good photographer... I do believe she does it to attract more people to her paper..."
>Search the other pages for ours.>You flip through the other pages, but find no panty shots. However you do find a couple of interesting headlines, one about a black wind, the other about a series of abductions...
>"Doesn't this make the newspapers too... lewd for younger readers? And what about those who's pictures were taken? Does she have permission from them?">"If parents have a problem with it, they can just not let their children near the paper. And no, I don't believe she has ever used them with permission."
>"And why are YOU of all people seeing this mot-Lady Yukari ?!? What are you a pervert ?">"Maybe, maybe not..."
>Cross our arms.
>Abductions ? Take a better look.>You read the paper:
>Look a bit confused.>You sit down and prepare to eat.
>"Well.... i don't understand what you see, but okay i guess..."
>Sit down and prepare to eat.
>How old are we?>You are 19. Same age as Renko.
>Have we heard anything about "soothing music" before?>You have not.
>"Oh man! It must be terrible for the parents of those poor women!">"Hmm?" Yukari looks up from her plate, "Did you find something that's actually news?"
>"Several girls between 17 and 22 are missing, abducted during night time it seems, nothing of a clue was left, other than eye witnesses that heard a sort of soothing music before said abductions.">You take a bite of fish and show the page.
>Take a bite on the Chen fish and show them the page.
>"But underwear are it seems...">Yukari seems to ignore your comment before returning to her breakfast.
>"Lady Yukari, none of the humans from the village are supposed to be kidnapped or attacked correct ? Only outsiders that aren't in the village right ?">"Well, yes and no... Outsiders that haven't made their way to the village are more vulnerable and are generally the more preferred target, but humans that wander too far from the village without means to defend themselves are also fair game. Attacks within the village are rare, due to both Keine and Reimu being powerful deterrents, as well as most human-eating youkai being content with those isolated outsiders and wary wanderers. Though despite this, attacks within the village do happen occasionally. Really, it would only become a problem if a significant number of villagers disappeared at once, but, since the incident resolvers usually would be on the case in that situation, it wouldn't concern me unless the incident resolvers were all incapacitated, or if almost the entire village disappeared."
>"Hmmm... so that means that all three of us can be targets for this mystery abductor.... we should be wary of any kind of soothing music we hear out there.">"Yeah... Definitely..." says Renko.
>"Did you inform Miss Ran of this already ? People might get suspicious if they notice that the Hakurei Shrine Maiden is not mobilizing to investigate a potential threat.">"She probably would've learned about it on her own. And if she hasn't, then I'll nudge her in the right direction when I feel the time is right."
>Take another bite at the fish and a bit of the rice balls.>You take another bite of fish and then reach for one of the rice balls...
>"Ekkk !">You slap your other hand hard. It hurts.
>Hit the eye with our other hand !
>"Those eyes... It was one of those eyes of hers... staring down at my soul....">"IS the nightmare still affecting you?" Renko tilts her head, "It must've been an intense nightmare then..."
>Take a breath.
>"What if she isn't really gone ? If she isn't she will come back for you and Matenshi, to use the archangel's power and Matenshi's capabilities to change the world....">"But we saw her explode, Merry..." Renko frowns.
>Shiver.
>"I could feel the merciless hatred... the same from that nightmare...."
>Do we know anything about having nightmares while awake?>As a psychology major, you know that sometimes nightmares could have an impact on waking life, especially soon after waking up.
>She pointed her arm at us before exploding right ?>She reached menacingly for you in her last moments...
>"I hope... but remember that youkai you said that killed Miss Reimu's relatives and was supposedly exterminated ? It would explain why Yuugen had no body, and if she found a way to live without a body, then it could also mean....">You have nothing nearby to drink.
>If there is anything nearby to drink have a bit of it.
>"I will try to get it out of my head, but if these things continue to happen... i would like for you to take me somewhere where they can examine me, to see if there is wrong with my mind, everyone that was there was hurt by her, Renko, Matenshi, Sumireko, little Chen, and i, i am not letting that happen again."
>Relax a bit.>"Ah, yes, thanks for reminding me, Chen, weren't you supposed to brew some tea to go with breakfast?" Yukari asks.
>"....a cup of water or something would be nice to have now... could any of you please get one for me ?"
>Brighten up a bit.>"Yes, she is quite the entertaining one..." Yukari muses.
>"Hehehe... that Chen..."
>Look back to those two (Three i guess actually).>"It's fine." they reply.
>"Sorry for worrying you three, it's just that had i never asked for her 'help', that would have never ever happened, and everyone would have been happier...."
>"So you are sisters huh ? Mind telling us more about yourselves ?">"I guess." Sumireko shrugs.
>Take a bite on the rice ball.>You take a bite out of the ball.
>"So did Renko give you a hard time when she was younger Sumireko ? Even today she is still someone that gives some trouble, even when we were first coming to Gensokyo she was late for the meeting.">"No, not really... I mean she did some of the annoying little sister things for a few years. But we were close.... Well... at least until I started high school... Then we sorta drifted apart some..." Sumireko frowns.
>"And is that why you hid your powers from her ?"
>Instead.>"I never told any of my family about my powers." Sumireko replies.
>"And what about your powers? How did they affect things. If you're willing to tell, I mean."
>"It was the same for me. Seeing things no one else can isn't the easiest thing to convince people...">"Well, I actually had physical proof of my powers... So I didn't have to worry about convincing... I was more afraid of their reactions if they ever found out..."
>"Oh. I guess you and Renko could prove it easily...">"Huh? What do you mean by Renko?" Sumireko looks at her.
>"It's always been useful to us.">"Did you two travel a lot?"
>"Renko was the only person i could trust for that kind of secret, even here in Gensokyo i still need to keep it quiet, because i am a half-youkai with the same powers as of one of the most notorious and strong youkai around...">"Well, you shouldn't really worry about that, you can be a bit more lenient with your powers here... I mean, I can freely use mine here without fear of my parents or some wack-job scientist finding out..."
>"I am not sure...">"Hmm... I guess you have a point." Sumireko frowns.
>Make a example gap above the table.
>"A lot of people know about this, and what Lady Yukari can do, and if they see that someone like me can do the same, it might be troublesome...."
>"And i still have a lot to learn, since i caused a significant unstable tear to the spatial boundary.....which could have very well become something as serious as that whole change the world plan we stopped, had Lady Yukari not fixed it.">"Geez..."
>Get up and and head to the kitchen.>You get up and walk to the kitchen, Chen has already set out some cups and is holding the kettle.
>"Let me help you Chen."
>"Oh okay.">Chen pours the hot tea into the cups, taking care not to spill it, before setting the kettle down.
>Watch Chen carefully.
>Smile at the sight of little Chen doing a good work.>You can't help but smile before you return to the table and sit down.
>Go back and sit down on the table.
>"Well.... there are three things that come to mind immediately, first would be to ask Miss Patchouli for her thoughts about Renko becoming a magician youkai and if she has any ideas for Sumireko and Matenshi's issue.">"And I asked you when, not where." Yukari chuckles, "You should really listen to things closely, Maribel."
>Put on a thoughtful face.
>"Second is finding Koishi and backing her up when meeting again with her sister, so they can have a important talk regarding Koishi..."
>Sad face.
>"...and third would be visiting Regenteki to help with her traumas of the past, i also noticed she was heavily injured at those moments too, she is unable to fly now, and also seems to have movement issues with her body, she has no one left at her side, she lost them all.... so i must help her."
>"O-Oh !">"Very well. I would like to speak to you about an important matter before you head out." Yukari replies, "Also, since you mentioned it, the bathroom is upstairs, between Chen's room and the end of the hallway, if you're wondering."
>Blush a little.
>"Well after breakfast and after we all have a refreshing bath i suppose."
>Nod and keep eating.>You continue to eat.
>"Does it concern my powers ?"
>"At least there was a bit of time to unwind.">You finish your meal and tea.
>Smile a bit and finish up.
>"I'm gonna go ahead and take my bath, i will be right back.">"Alright." Yukari replies.
>Get up and head to said bathroom.
>"I won't !">You make your way to the bathroom.
>Once there look around and lock the door, then take off our clothes.
>Take bath>You turn on the water and take a nice, warm, relaxing bath...
>Get out, dressed, and back downstairs!
>Make sure we dry off before putting our clothes back on...>You get out of the tub, dry off, and get dressed, before heading back downstairs.
>"I'm back ! The bathroom is all free now.">"Alright." Renko stands up, "I guess it's my turn, then?"
>"Huh ? What did she say Sumireko ?">"She was just groaning because we're waiting on you and Renko when we could be out trying to resolve our situation right now..."
>"Well we can't have you two walking around alone there, considering that you two have the dust of the archangels inside your merged body, anything can happen...">There is a few seconds of silence before Sumireko frowns.
>Frown.
>"As nice as it would be to solve this quickly, it isn't wise to go around recklessly, patience is a virtue that is essential...."
>Look a bit worried.>"It's not that, Maribel... she's just a little down because when you said that whole thing about patience and recklessness, she said you were starting to sound like her- er... You know..."
>"Matenshi, trust me, i think i speak for all three of us that we all care about you, believe it or not, and we want to help you, but please let's take this carefully, and it isn't just us that have issues, people out there have issues that are just as bad or even worse than any of ours."
>"Oh... I'm sorry... e-erm, we'll be able to leave as soon as Renko finishes, at least. We can visit the Scarlet Devil Mansion to talk to Patchouli about you two's situation, first thing.">"In that case, I should get started." Renko starts to make her way towards the bathroom, "I'll try to be quick."
>Look down.>"She says it's fine..." Sumireko replies
>"I never meant to..... I am sorry... i was just worried..."
>What is Lady Yukari doing now ?>She seems to have closed the small gap she was looking into and seems to be sitting patiently.
>"It's just that i have so much on my mind now, i can't stop worrying about it, especially about Regenteki...">"So who exactly is this Rengeteki you keep mentioning anyway?" Sumireko asks.
>"Um, while we were searching for you two and when you were still fighting, i stumbled upon a youkai with fairy-like wings, she found my satchel but when i asked for it back she was so afraid of me she took off running.">"Sure... It'll pass the time while we wait for Renko..."
>Sit down.
>"I followed her because almost all my stuff was there, it was weird since she seemed like she was attempting but failing to fly, once i caught up to her with my tears at the time, she sprained her ankle and i couldn't just leave her there."
>Sad frown.
>"It was really confusing and saddening, her fear was so big, only after a little while she started trusting me and i kinda learned why.... should i go ahead ?"
>Nod and look down.>"Oh god... That sounds horrible..."
>"It was because in the past, Regenteki was really happy with her other two friends, until they found out that both one of her friends and Regenteki loved the other friend of hers, they started growing apart, and then.... an accident happened.... Regenteki lost the person she loved and her other friend blamed her for their love interest's death."
>Does it seem like they are keeping up qith the story ?
>"Yes...">"...God... that's even worse... So she's all alone now?"
>Take a breath.
>"...and it doesn't end there, after a while she did find company again and started recovering, but again, one of those people that she found was Miss Yuuka, the one from the Sunflower Fields and didn't really get along with Regenteki, and she caused an incident from what i recall, and after Miss Reimu and Marisa solved that incident, everything vanished, the friends she had made again, the mansion she spent her time on, the only person that remained was Yuuka, and when Regenteki went towards her to ask for answers, Yuuka acted like they never ever met.... and from that day Regenteki's wings were damaged, making her unable to fly."
>Nod faintly.>"Yeah... I wouldn't want to leave a person like that alone either..."
>"That is also why i am reluctant to leave Gensokyo, i can't leave her there, i want to help her recover from her wounds, both physical ones like her wings and body and mental ones like the loss of her loved one and finding out that all of her friends just vanished in almost an instant..."
>"But i understand that you two want to get this merging issue solved quickly, and if it is quick i don't think there is harm in stopping by the mansion first..."
>Look curiously.
>"A question for Matenshi, about the dust inside you, do you know if there is a way to get it out of your body ? Just in case we have to do that for safety ?"
I wonder if the dust might be safer inside them than just sitting around in that other place, though. At least Matenshi is a proper angel.>Sumireko closes her eyes and reopens then.
>Let's not say that part about "if it's quick I don't think there's harm in stopping by the mansion". Rengeteki will be okay for another hour, Sumi-Tenshi's own crisis shouldn't be belittled to "well, if it's quick." Rest is good~
>Nod.>"The only danger comes from tapping into it while not knowing what you're doing... And I'm not stupid enough to do that or let Sumireko do it..."
>"But is there any danger of it going out of control ?"
>"I am glad to hear it is all good ! The safety of all of you is my biggest priority, i don't want any of you to be hurt again.">"Now is Renko done yet?" Matenshi frowns and looks in the direction of the doorway, "It's getting boring in here..."
>Look back at our mother.>"Well, there's always a quick danmaku duel... Or I could give you a crossword puzzle... Or we could do this..."
>"Entertainment ? How so ?"
>"Oh...">Yukari just waits as the laser pointer sits on the table...
>Watch warmly...
>"Make sure she doesn't break anything.">"Oh? You were expecting me to use it?" Yukari chuckles, "I was waiting for one of you to either pick it up or decide on something else to occupy yourselves."
>Look at Sumitenshi with a doubtful face.>Sumitenshi is staring at the laser pointer with a perplexed expression.
>"Will she even like if we do that to her ?"
>TAKE THE POINTER
We are doing this.
....fiiiiine...>Yukari shrugs.
>"Umm... just a little bit ? She won't mind right ?"
>Pick up the pointer.
>Point it to the way Chen is facing, making sure to point at a wall and not an object like a plate.>You aim the laser pointer at the wall next to Chen and press the button.
>How does she react ?
>Be amazed by this adorable behavior of little Chen.>It's so adorable!
>"Aw... it's so cuteeeee ! Wanna try it Matenshi ?"
>Offer the pointer.
>It's just teasing... Like if someone were to hold something delicious inches away from us without giving it to us...
>It's just teasing... Like if someone were to hold something delicious inches away from us without giving it to us...>You assure yourself it's just friendly teasing.
>Whisper to her.>"You didn't have a problem with your eyes when you used it... Huh? What do you mean I'm aiming it wrong?"
>"First, the sudden brightness won't be good for your eyes. Second, Chen's hand and or claws when she jumps at you for it would probably be worse for them..."
>"You point this side to the wall, like this..."
>Guide her hand so that it is aimed at the wall in front of Chen.
>"And just press the button ! Try it now."
>Whisper this too.^>You guide her hand and Matenshi presses the button.
>"Isn't it so cute ?">"I guess..." Matenshi replies as she stops the dot in one place.
>Smile brightly.
>"Chen !">You quickly rush to Chen's aid.
>Get up and go to her.
>"Are you okay dear ? You didn't hit your head too hard right ?"
>"What will you do after you get it?">"Um..." Chen taps her chin, "Uh... I dunno..."
>"Be a bit more careful please though."
>Hug her and rub her hair.>Chen blushes a bit, "W-What!?! N-No I don't!!"
>"But you look soooo adorable when you are after it."
>"Yes you do dear, i bet Lady Ran would think the same.">Chen frowns adorably as you rub her hair.
>Smile, keep rubbing her hair and look back.
>"So i guess it's you two's turn now."
>Look a bit curious.>"I... L-Look, can we just go now!? We've been waiting long enough!"
>"Are you embarrassed of seeing your own naked body ? Since your body mostly resembles Sumireko so..."
>Sigh.>You turn to Yukari.
>"If you say so, a bath is still a nice idea, but okay."
>Turn to our mother.
>"So what is it that you wanted to talk about Lady Yukari ?"
>"........ehehe.">"Huh? Okay..."
>Look back to our friends and make a "Be silent" gesture, and then turn to Chen.
>"Chen dear ? Mind getting me a cup of cold water ?"
>Slowly pour some on our mother's head and stop, did she wake up ?
>Maybe this isn't the best idea considering she wants to talk about something serious. We should try to wake her normally.>You almost pour the water on her head, but stop at the last moment.
>Okay...... hold on the water and prod our mother, them shake her if it doesn't work.>You gently nudge and shake Yukari.
>If both fail, resort to the water.
>"As a last resort, we are more alike than you think !">You elicit a small smile from Yukari.
>Giggle lightly.
>"So what was it that you wanted to talk about ?">"Ah, yes. You're leaving now, are you not?"
>Nod.>"Give me your hat." Yukari holds out a hand.
>"Renko is done and Matenshi isn't in the mood for a bath it seems."
>Sit down and and look a bit worried.
>"Well, what is it ?"
>"Huh ? Okay.....">You quickly check above you as you hand Yukari her hat.
>Take off our hat and offer it to her.
>"Why though ?"
>.....beware of any gaps that appear above us.
>Nod then turn to Chen.>"Of course." says Yukari.
>"Little Chen will come too right ?"
>"Thank you.">You take the pen and notebook and place them in your satchel
>Take the pen and notebook.
>"In that case, it's off to the Scarlet Devil Mansion now, yes?">"Wherever you want to go." says Chen.
>...did we ever leave it by the actual front entrance to know how to gap there?>You did not leave through the front entrance. You were about to, but decided to make a tear leading to Yuuka's Sunflower Field before you could.
>"If someone questions my powers, do you have any preference for what I should tell them Lady Yukari?">"As long as it's not anything that definitively confirms our relationship, I'll be fine with it." Yukari replies
>Can we make a gap to the outside of the forest near the mansion then ?>The closest you could gap would probably be that spot in the forest where you met Rumia.
>"Okay.">"I'm ready." says Renko.
>Turn back to those 4.
>"Is anyone ready ? Nobody forgot anything ?'
>"Relax we are going already.">You create a gap.
>Make a gap on said spot on the forest.
>"It will take a little while since i can't make a gap right outside of it though."
>"Miss Sakuya Izayoi, the head maid, has asked me to the front door next time we visited, i am merely doing my part.">"Suit yourself."
>Turn to our group.>Everyone nods.
>"Now shall we ?"
>Head through the gap.
>"We could fly there, but i would have to carry you again Renko.">You shut the gap.
>Close the gap.
>Smile too.>You sweep Renko into a princess carry and start flying in the direction you think the mansion was in.
>"Alright."
>Gently lift Renko and carry her like we did before, and start flying towards the direction we remember the mansion was at.
>"I'll lead us there, follow me."
>"So... when do you think we should start practicing flying? Or would you like to be carried like this everywhere? We could still do it after you learn.">"As much as I enjoy this, I still think I should at least try to learn to do it on my own... Maybe we can practice later?" Renko suggests.
>"I really hope those two get used to each other...">"I hope so too..." says Renko.
>"Hey look, something is going on there, let's check it out.">You approach the group.
>Head there and try to have a better look.
>Land and put Renko gently on the ground and wave.>You place Renko on the ground.
>"Hey Rumia, how are you doing ? Are these people also your friends ?"
>Smile.
>"Hey relax everyone, that's Matenshi over there, she isn't a bird youkai, it's complicated to explain.">"I'm Cirno! And I'm the strongest!" the blue fairy puts her hands on her hips and puff out her chest proudly.
>Nod.
>"So what are your names ? I know Rumia, and Mystia from the food vendor in the bamboo forest, but what about these two fairies and the youkai with the antennaes ?"
>"I am Maribel Hearn, and this is my friend Renko Usami.">"And I'm Sumireko." says Sumireko.
>Pet Chen.
>"And this little girl here is Chen."
>Examine Daiyousei and Cirno further.>Cirno is wearing a blue dress, with white triangles lining the bottom. She has short, cyan hair, and a blue bow. On her back are six wings, however, upon closer inspection you notice they look more like ice crystals than wings. Her chest is about average.
>"Errr... it's complicated. Sumireko and Matenshi are kinda stuck together right now. We're heading to the Scarlet Devil Mansion to see about fixing them.">"Ah, is that so~?" says Rumia.
>"Say, your wings are really pretty Daiyousei, different from any other fairies i have seen, Cirno's are also neat.">"O-Oh. Thank you..." Daiyousei smiles, "Yeah... I'm a bit different from most fairies apparently..."
>"Sorta, and that's good, being different makes you unique, and i can see why you are, you are also very pretty yourself, not just your wings.">Daiyousei blushes slightly, "R-Really? Thanks..."
>Examine Wriggle.>Wriggle has short, dark green hair, and two antennae protruding from her head. She's wearing a white shirt with knee-length blue shorts, and a black cape with a red lining. She is flat chested, and could probably be mistaken for a boy at a distance.
>"Uh huh.">"Alright. Again, it was nice to meet you." Daiyousei smiles.
>Nod.
>"Well.... we have to get going now, time isn't going to stand still."
>Wave at them and gently lift Renko again like before.>"Eeep!" Renko yelps as you suddenly lift her again. It sounded pretty cute.
>"See you all later, have a good day and don't get into trouble !">"Bye Maribel." says Rumia.
>Nod and take off to the mansion gate.
>"Well, I meant time wouldn't stand still for us, since we aren't Sakuya. Sorry for the misunderstanding, but we really should get going.">Cirno continues to block your flight path, "I don't care about that anymore! I want to know what she said and why I wouldn't want to know it!"
>"She was probably complaining about someone we met before finding you five, right Sumireko ?">"Y-Yeah, that's totally what she was doing..." says Sumireko.
>Do a discrete wink towards Sumitenshi.
>"We are having some tough times right now, a lot of bad things have been happening, so it's taking a toll, don't worry about us and go have fun with your friends, you were talking about some kins of show right ?">"Oh yeah, Mystia won't help me take down the giant toad because she has a concert planned with what's-her-face" Cirno frowns.
>"Well, then just leave the toad be, it's not like it will jump out of the lake and try to eat you isn't it ? Why don't you play together some instead ?">"It ate me before..." Cirno frowns.
>"Ehhh, sorry, but we really have to go, no time for a danmaku duel and such, we will see you later.">"Aw... Come on... I want to see how strong they are!" Cirno flies backwards to keep up with you, pouting.
>Nod and continue heading to the gate.
>Turn around.>"Huh, so you guys ARE chicken, aren't you!"
>"I'm sorry Cirno, but we really have to go, there is no time for danmaku now, we need to see Miss Patchouli at the mansion as soon as possible, this duel can wait for another time."
>"Matenshi, don't fall down to her level! If you let her insults get to you, she's already won once!">"Excuse me?" She turns to give you a death glare, "She has NOT already won, and I am by no means stooping down to HER level. How dare you insinuate that!"
//Cmon Azy ! You knew that would make it worse !>Everyone goes quiet for a few moments.
>Frown and fly there.
>"Enough with this !"
>Take a breath.
>"What is this childish talk about cowardice ? Simply because a person doesn't want to battle does not mean that they are a coward, a true coward would run away even if people were counting on him or her to do something ! But you know what is worse than being a coward ? Being reckless and endangering both the people close to you and yourself !"
>Eye Cirno.
>"Cirno, you have to learn some pacience, some people will just be too busy to have a duel with you, so you have to respect that and don't get in the way, or else you will upset them like now, if you don't qant to be called a moron, you need to show others that you have pacience, and respect, like Daiyousei over there."
>Eye Matenshi.
>"And you Matenshi gotta learn to keep your head cool, getting upset with a baseless insult that isn't even directed to you, but to the other person inhabiting the body is just bad, so what if they call you that ? Will you really turn into a coward by mere words that were said ? Will a danmaku duel really prove that you aren't a coward ?"
>Sigh and relax a bit.
>"Sorry for this, but i just had to say it, at any moment your fused body could start to show issues, and like i said i care about what happens to you three, more than i care about what happens to me."
>Don't parse until someone says anything.
//Any objections ?
>Sigh.>Matenshi frowns, but does not say anything..
>"Laughing of someone's innocent mistake isn't going to make you look any better you know ? You did mistakes yourself Matenshi."
>Give Cirno a understanding look.>"That place? Dai-chan tried to make me go with her once... But it was too boring..."
>"Genius is actually spelled as G-e-n-i-u-s Cirno, did you never go to that school of someone called Keine ?"
>Approach and rub her hair softly.>She backs away from your hand when you touch her.
>"It's okay, you can still be a genius if you study, then you will be the strongest fairy, and the smartest, and you want that right ?"
>"If you are a genius then you should be able to defeat Miss Marisa or Miss Reimu correct ? Then why didn't you ?">"Huh? How did you know I fought them?" Cirno looks surprised, "And FYI, I've beaten Marisa!"
>"I heard about you from some people i have met. What about Miss Reimu then ?">"Haven't beat her yet. I'm gonna take down the giant toad first though!"
>"Giant toad.... ?">"Yeah, the giant toad that lives on the mountain. It's really strong! And it ate me once..." Cirno shudders, "But I'm not going to let that deter me! I'm going to defeat the giant toad! And once he's down! I'm going to fight Reimu!"
>Look a bit puzzled.
>"Well, i hope you can do it, hey i think your friends are waiting for you, you should go back.">"Okay..."
>Gather up our ground and take leave.>"Bye." Cirno waves back as you leave.
>"Bye, we will see you later !"
>Wave.
>Phew... managed to solve this peacefully...>"I'll say..." Renko comments.
>"Well that was a bunch of interesting people..."
>"No need to worry, everyone makes mistakes, and in the end nothing bad happened...">She looked like a young teenager, perhaps 14 or 15
>Sigh.
>"Although we did lose a bit of time on that issue, but it shouldn't be much."
>How old did Daiyousei, or at least her body, look like she was ?
>Say..... did we ever have the strength to carry another human being like Renko before ?>You're unsure. It also depends on how you carry them. For instance, it's relatively easy to carry Renko like this, but if you tried it a different way it would be considerably more difficult.
>"That Daiyousei girl was a lot different from the fairies i have seen before, she looked like a teenager rather than a kid like most fairies do, she was also rather polite and shy.">"Yeah, she did look kinda different from a normal fairy." Sumireko remarks.
>"Maybe that is what Marisa meant with different fairies, i still believe in their potential, they are just kids that have lived a long time without no parental figure or someone to guide them, unlike the kids from the village or the outside world.">"Huh... I wonder what would happen if that potential was maximized...."
>"Huh ? What is that now ?">"I'm not sure..." says Renko.
>Approach carefully, do we recognize anyone ?
>Enjoy the music.>"Yeah, it is...." Renko nods in agreement
>"This is really nice."
>Fly down and meet up with Kagerou.>You land next to the group as the song finishes.
>Recall how much money we had from>You never took the time to count it or ask YuugenMagan its value. In fact you never bothered to open the coin pouch at all...She Who Shall Not Be Named, AKA YGMGthe friend in Makai.
>"Oh, hey again Miss Kagerou, good to see you again.">You land and set Renko on the ground.
>Land and put Renko carefully on the ground.
>"So who are those three over there ? Their music is really nice to listen to.">"Oh, them? That's just Raiko and the Tsukumo sisters. They're other members of our organization."
>Examine the crew Kagerou is with.>The girl in the water has blue hair, and is wearing a green Kimono. You notice that she has a pair of small fins protruding from the sides of her head around where her ears should be. She's eyeing all of you curiously.
>Nod.
>"Oh ! Before i forget...."
>Grab our satchel and search for the money pouch, how much is inside ?
>Hope there's enough to give to Kagerou and still donate to Reimu later for the trouble we caused...>"Hmm?" Kagerou tilts her head.
>"Uh...">You wonder what would happen if you slipped these into your hat... Would Yukari even accept anything that's not paper?
>Ponder slipping these into our hat and having Yukari (hopefully) identify them (and not question where we got them).
>"I have these coins here, i think they are from Makai, i dunno if they are worth anything here however...."
>Show her the coins.
>Don't mention Makai. Just say they aren't really from here.>You show Kagerou the coins, not mentioning they're from Makai.
>Recall what we have in our inventory.>INVENTORY:
>"Well i don't have much use for them, so as i said i could give you some.">"Huh? Why would you want to give me- Oh yeah... You still owe me for that."
>Nod.>"So are those coins worth anything?" Kagerou asks, "I mean, I've never seen anything like them..."
>"I am not one to forget my debts, plus it was really kind of you to help me even if i didn't have anything to pay you for at the time, if it wasn't for you Renko could have gotten more seriously injured."
>Put a few of the coins back. Just in case they're really valuable.>You never took any coins out of the pouch.
>"Do you... not want them?">"Oh, I'll take them." says Kagerou, "I'm just wondering how valuable they are... Maybe I should get them appraised?"
>"So you're just worried about the value huh...">"L-Look. Forget about the value... I already said I'd take them." Kagerou smiles, "And I'm sure they're at least worth something. Besides, you did remember your debt after all... That's all that really matters I guess."
>Droop a bit.
>"Well, they do look a bit pretty too...">You pour most of the coins out of the pouch into Kagerou's hand.
>Give Kagerou most of the coins.
>"Oh how rude of me, i didn't even talk to your friend here.">"Wakasagihime." the girl replies, "And it's nice to meet you too."
>Turn to the water girl with a smile.
>"Hello, my name is Maribel, it is nice to meet you Miss.... ?"
>Nod with a smile.>"I'm a ningyo."
>"Say, i haven't seen an youkai like you on the time i have been on Gensokyo, are you some kind of water youkai ?"
>Look amazed.>Wakasagihime blushes and submerges a little, "Uh... I-It's not really that great..."
>"Why that is a gorgeous tail there ! There so many unique youkai and fairies and humans around here, Gensokyo is truly an incredible place."
>Look to both of them a bit confused.>Chen smiles a little when you rub her ears.
>"Why are you two behaving like that ? I don't see anything wrong with your tail and ears Kagerou, nor with Wakasagihime's mermaid tail, i mean, look at little Chen here."
>Gently point and rub Chen's cat ears.
>"Chen isn't hiding her cat ears or tail, and nobody minds it, in fact they look cute and also useful with how well they can hear."
>"So, how would you compare yourself to others with similar tails? You said you were the only one in Gensokyo...">"W-Well... I did live in the ocean a long time ago, and mine was pretty normal compared to the others' tails... I-I think..."
>"Well i don't think what you say about yourself is true, your tail looks smooth and nice, plus you fins on the head also look nice, i just look like your average person.">"B-But all our tails are smooth... A-And a-all of us have fins like that!"
>"Yeah, so whatvif you aren't unique in appearance in the ocean ? Here in Gensokyo you are, and besides, what makes you really unique, is this.">"Yeah, I guess you're right..." Wakasagihime smiles a little.
>Point towards our heart and our brain.
>"This is what truly defines who you are."
>Nod with a smile.>"It's a long story... You probably won't be interested."
>"So why did you move to over here in the lake ?"
>I think we should get going and talk to them later...>You begin to think that it would probably be better to talk to these people later. Assuming they're still around then...
>"Well, now that this is all solved, i guess we have to go for now, we have some important bussiness at the mansion.">"Oh, okay."
>Smile. "I wouldn't mind hearing that story sometime though. Maybe I should consider packing a picnic lunch for it. After all, stories go best with friends and good food!">"Well, I still don't think the story will be that interesting..."
>"Huh ? Will there be another performance ?">"Oh, no I'm just tuning my biwa." She explains, "But if you want us to play again, we won't mind. Right?"
>Turn towards the band.
>"Uh... not now sorry, but we could come later, when and where will you play next ?">"We don't really have a set spot yet..." the lilac-haired girl frowns.
>"Um... well why don't you tell Wakasagihume here when you do then ? Then later we could ask her where it is and help her go there too if we can attend.">"U-Uh.... I wouldn't be the best person to ask where something is... I don't get out of the lake often..." Wakasagihime frowns.
>"Just the name of it and the time where it will happen would be enough, we could just ask someone for directions if we don't know about it either.">"Well, the thing is..." the biwa girl explains, "We don't really have a set time either..."
>"Well then i guess your senses are a bit dull on that, i feel like you are talented enough to do one soon.">All the band members smile as you pick up Renko.
>Smile with a nod, then gently pick up Renko again.
>"Now we should get going, time isn't really on my side now.">"Oh, okay... Goodbye then."
>"I do, and i bet everyone else here thinks so too, right girls ?">Your group nods in agreement.
>Turn to our friends in tow.
>"Bye now !">Your group presses onward, eventually ending up in front of it, or rather, in front of the large gate in the brick wall surrounding it.
>Continue our way to the mansion.
>Set Renko down gently.>You set Renko on the ground.
>>Get behind Meiling.
>"Kanchou!"
>"Maybe it's just her break?">"Wouldn't she be inside if it was a break, though?"
>Approach the guard.>An upside down bucket of water suddenly appears above the woman's head, and you watch as its contents proceed to drench her before the bucket itself bonks her.
>"Hello ? Um... wake-"
>"Hey hey, relax please, i'm sure that with the right procedure we can solve this issue.">"Huh?! Where did you come from?" the guard asks.
>Smile.>You pat Chen on the back as you introduce everyone.
>"So Miss Guard, i am Maribel Hearn, and this is my friend Renko, here we have Chen...."
>Gently pat her back.
>"....and this person over here is a unique case, and one of the reasons we are visiting again too, depending on the conditions she is Matenshi or Sumireko, the latter being Renko's sister."
>"Well, she's not just a friend. She's very important to me.">"I see." says Sakuya, "So what is your business here, today, anyway? As Meiling was asking."
>Hold Renko's hand.
>"There's a few things we want to check on. Is Miss Patchouli available?">"She is." says Sakuya, "Would you like me to take you to the library while I'm here?"
>"If it is no bother for you, then sure.">Sakuya nods, pulls out her pocketwatch, and clicks it.
>"I know right ? I think it is bigger than the size the mansion appears to be."
>Wave towards Koakuma and look around for Miss Patchouli.
>Approach Koakuma.>Koakuma notices you and waves back, "Hello again. Lady Patchouli is behind you." she says.
>"Miss Koakuma, do you know where Miss Patchouli is?"
>Frown back at Matenshi.>Matenshi continues to frown, before looking off to an empty spot, "Oh, shut up, Sumireko. I'll 'relax' when I feel like it..."
>"Brighten up a little will you ? She just said that innocently as a remark, can't you relax one bit ? It's not like the end of the world is nigh, we stopped that from happening already."
>Sigh and head towards Miss Patchouli.>"Ah, hello again, Mary, was it? And I certainly don't feel as healthy as I-" Patchouli coughs, "-did yesterday... Speaking of which, you have my sincere apologies for what happened. I'm sorry I couldn't continue to assist you."
>"Hello again Miss Patchouli, how are you feeling today ?"
>"It's fine. We've been reunited again.">"Ah, that's good to hear." Patchouli turns the page of her book, "So, what is your business here today, if I may ask?"
>Point her towards Sumitenshi.>"Oh?" Patchouli closes her book and looks at Sumireko/Matenshi, "Interesting... " she coughs, "...so what does this have to do with me?"
>"Turns out she isn't alone, somehow she fused her body with this other girl called Matenshi, and now they are two souls and minds in one merged body."
>"We were wondering if you had magic that could help with this. They want to be separated into their own bodies again."
>"Have you ever seen a case like this ?">"No, I have not... But I do recall reading of a spell that can split a soul, and it might-" she coughs "-be of use... Unfortunately, the book that contained that information was stolen by the black-white a few years ago. Besides, it's not like I'd be able to cast many spells or rituals today anyway in my current state of health."
>"Split a soul you say ? It could be useful, but what happens to said souls that were split ? Do you remember ?">"I'd need to take another look at it, but if I recall correctly, once the soul was split, one half could then either be consumed for use in a more powerful ritual or transferred into a vessel."
>"I see, this is a good clue, thank you, but may i ask you something else ? It is about youkai."
>"Or rather, magicians, I guess.">"Hmm...? What about them?"
>"Would you be able to tell us about the process of a human becoming a magician youkai ?">"Oh? Well that would be relatively simple. Once a human magician masters a spell that can take away their dependence on food for survival, they immediately transition into a youkai. However, a youkai magician isn't considered 'complete' until they manage to halt their own aging with magic."
>"Oh. So it's a fairly long process one would need time to work on huh...">"Not necessarily. De-" Patchouli coughs," - Pardon me, - Depending on the magician's potential, whether or not they have a tutor, and how hard they work, they could remove their dependence on food within two years, and halt their aging within five. Of course, if one rushes things, they won't really be a good magician..."
Not to mention everyone who voted on staying in Gensokyo mysteriously vanished aside from Raf
>"Okay."
>"So, do you think Marisa will be willing to give up that book on souls?">"HA!" Patchouli suddenly enters a coughing fit, causing Koakuma to come over.
>"I think i have an idea, it might not work, but it is a chance she will give us at least.">Everyone shakes their head.
>Turn to our group.
>"Anyone has any doubts before we leave ?"
>"Do you remember title of that book? Or how book looked like?">"If I recall correctly, it had a black cover, with silver lettering." Patchouli replies, "I do not recall the full title, though I am positive it contained the word 'Arcana'."
>Nod.>"You're welcome."
>"Thank you for your assistance Miss Patchouli, now i think we should get going."
>Turn to our group.>"I don't mind." says Renko.
>"You four don't mind if we stop by Regenteki's place now so i can check up on her right ?"
>"Well, if i manage to make a gap leading to Marisa's house... it shouldn't take long either for this...">You attempt to recall the details about Marisa's house that were described to you earlier...
>Sigh and prepare to make a gap, try to recall all the details that Marisa told us before, the lonely tree, the house and it's height, the windows on it, with the rest of the Forest of Magic surrounding it.
>Open the gap leading there, you heard it, gap, not a tear.>You open a gap and head through.
>Head through with our group.
>Head to the door and knock on it.>Leaving your gap open, you head to the front door and knock.
>"Oh hey Alice ! I didn't expect to see you here, isn't this Marisa's house ?">"It is. Actually, it's both our house, but we're actually planning on moving into my old house..." she frowns, "Once we finally get around to organizing Marisa's junk and Mima finds a job and stops living on our couch, that is..." she says that last part loudly over her shoulder before turning back to you and smiling, "Anyway, would you like to come inside?"
>"Sure, if it is no bother, we came here to get some help anyways.">"What kind of help?" Alice asks as your group steps inside.
>Nod and head inside.
>"It's abou..... oh.... i see what you mean now..."
>Sigh.
>"Uh... where was i ? Right, we kinda need a book that Marisa stole from Miss Patchouli in the past, it has a black cover, with silver lettering on the title i think, and it also had the word 'Arcana' on the title too, because it might help with an issue with merged bodies."
>Yeah do not mention her.>"You'd have to ask Marisa about that. Even I don't know where all the books she 'borrows' are, they're mostly strewn about the house."
>Replace the "...that Marisa stole from Miss Patchouli in the past..." with "...that i was told Marisa has..."
>"Is Marisa home?">"She is, but she's recovering from yesterday. Apparently some eyeball youkai jumped her and gave her a nasty shock that temporarily paralyzed her... Don't worry, she's safe and sound now, but if I find that youkai, they're going to pay dearly. Actually, would you know anything about that? I think Marisa mentioned being with you before she was attacked."
>Frown and look away.>"Alright... And no, I won't mind..." Alice replies.
>"She.... that... that traitor is dead now, at least i think she is... look could we please not talk about her ?"
>Take a deep breath.
>"Would you mind if we took a look around ? It is an important tool that could probably fix our issue."
>"Thank you... and i am sorry for the trouble she gave Marisa...">"You're welcome."
>Try to put up a weak smile and start looking around for a book that matches our descriptions.
>"H-Huh ?"
>"Alice?">"Oh, that's probably just Marisa's pet. Don't worry, it's harmless."
>Gesture towards the boxes.
>"Are those supposed to be moving?"
>Carefully approach said boxes, being aware of anything jumping at us.>You carefully approach the boxes when a creature resembling a short, fat snake slowly emerges from between them. It looks you in the eyes, flicking its tongue.
>"Oh.">"Yeah, I guess it is..."
>Stare at it a bit amused.
>"It is kinda cute."
>Gently approach our hand to caress it.
>Gently tap it's head and rub it.>You gently rub the snake(?)'s head. It seems to nuzzle your hand as you do so, hissing contently.
>"Tsuchinoko ? What kind of animal is it then ?">You continue to pet the tsuchinoko, it seems to like it.
>Keep petting it.
>"Um...">You finish petting the tsuchinoko and turn to the green haired woman.
>Rub the Tsuchinoko one last time, get up and face the Green-haired woman.
>"Sorry to interrupt, but my name is Maribel Hearn, nice to meet you.">"I'm Mima." she replies, taking another drink from the milk bottle, "So you're looking for a specific book, huh? Well good luck with that, it'll be like finding a needle in a haystack."
>Sigh.>You start looking through the piles, Renko and the others start on some of the other piles.
>"Plus we don't even know if that book has something that works with bodies either.... i guess we should start working..."
>Look around carefully through the piles of books.
>Point to Sumitenshi.>"Really? What's that feel like?"
>"Because of their issue, basically, their bodies were merged into one, so they are two souls and minds in one body."
>"I guess its like Dissociative identity disorder, but there actually are more than one people in your body.">"Huh..."
>"I was told that it could separate a single soul into two, so i was thinking that it could also separate a body into two, so yes, at least it is what i hope.">"Oh! I know exactly which book you're talking about then." says Alice, "Marisa 'borrowed' it from the Scarlet Devil Mansion's Library, and we were researching that exact spell."
>Nod.
>"Huh ?">"Indeed, but it didn't really work out..." Alice frowns, "We can't just give her half a soul, because then it would just copy the soul's personality into Shanghai's body. And we want her to be unique... We thought we could split half of our souls and then combine them to make a new soul, but it seems the spell only splits souls, it can't fuse them."
>Look a bit confused then glance at Shanghai.
>"Oh ! I see ! You want to see if you can split a soul and give one part to Shanghai, how smart."
>Smile.
>"Hm...">"She knows very little about it." says Sumireko, "All she knows is that it was supposed to convert a victim into a new extension of Uriel's body, and if it was allowed to go to completion the change would be irreversible... She also says that it's meant to work on one person, not two at once."
>Turn towards Sumitenshi.
>"Sumireko, does Matenshi know anything about that bubble capsule that imprisoned both of you ? Cause it was what merged your bodies together."
>"I wonder if you two could make something similar... i would love to see this little lovely doll have her own soul.">"She's animated with some rather complex magic." Alice explains, "She can think and act on her own, but it's not the same as having a true soul, some things are... missing... Besides, the magic that animates her only works when she's within about twenty feet of me, she would enter an inactive state if she went any farther. So, if she had a soul of her own, she would also be no longer bound to me and have a lot more freedom."
>Smile but stay a bit curious.
>"Wait, if she doesn't have her own soul, how does she move and all that ?"
>"Oh, but wouldn't giving her a mix of your souls also change her personality to something similar to both of you ?">"Not necessarily... I mean, yes, there will be some influence from both of the parent souls, but ideally that influence will be minor. The soul should evolve a unique personality of its own in addition to those influences."
>Look at Sumirenko.>Sumireko is staring at a purple orb on a very messy table.
>"What is it?"
>"So what did the occult balls do exactly ? How do they work ?">"They were a set of artifacts scattered throughout the world at places called 'Mystery Spots,' and they had a strange power. For instance, when enough of them are together they can actually distort Gensokyo's barrier, allowing someone to temporarily cross over for a short period of time. I um... kinda started an incident with that back then... Anyway, that was only a fraction of their power, and since I didn't have all of them at the time, I couldn't really experiment with them more beyond those... antics... regarding the border. I did get all of them eventually, and I was running an experiment on them. But then I blacked out and when I next woke up Matenshi was in my body... Oh, Matenshi has her own things to say about them."
>"And this means you will just watch over now correct ? Since the world is now taking the course it was intended to.">"I am honestly not sure..." says Matenshi.
>"How so ? Uriel's plan was foiled, and so was the plan of that traitor too, isn't your mission to keep the world's course on it's tracks until the end ?">"Well, yes, I would have to regulate everything once I became a full archangel, but that doesn't necessarily mean I'll be watching your world constantly..."
>"Well, seems like we all have some major responsibility to take, i need to learn more about my own powers too, so that i don't risk disrupting the spatial boundaries.... again...">"Again?" Matenshi asks
>Look at Mima.>"Yes, specifically for those who are too dumb to figure things out themselves or are too lazy to find a mentor to teach them..." says Mima, "Why does Marisa even HAVE that book anyway...!? She shouldn't even need it with the things I taught her..."
>"For babies ? What do you mean ? Like for new apprentices at magic ?"
>"Looong story Matenshi, the same way you are a kind of jack-of-all-trades regarding the archangels and has a lot to learn, i also have a lot to learn too.">"Well, Marisa isn't an apprentice magician, at least not anymore. Besides, a book can only tell you so much. Actually doing it is how you truly learn, which I why I believe either self-teaching by trial and error or becoming the apprentice of an existing magician is the best way a novice magician can learn. Why are you so interested in this anyway?" Mima asks.
>Turn back to Mima and Alice.
>"Are there any for apprentice magicians around here ? That aren't too simple like that one i mean."
>"Well, i plan to become one, it seems like a very interesting way of life."
>And I'm hoping for Renko to do the same.>"Oh, really?" Mima seems interested, "...Who's Renko?"
>"Well, seems like it, we should look into that later too.">"Well then, keep in mind what I told you, then..."
>"Hey wait up Alice !">You follow Alice out of the room.
>Go after them.
>"Are you still studying that book or can we borrow it ?"
>"Thank you, but do you know where it is ? And if so could you please tell me ?">"If I did, I wouldn't be going to Marisa to ask where she put it..."
>"Oh, sorry then...">"No, I don't mind at all." Alice continues onward.
>Look a bit down.
>"Do you mind if i go with you then ? It was my fault she was hurt, so i should at least apologize."
>Follow !>You follow Alice up a staircase and into a very messy bedroom. Marisa is lying on the bed, holding a bag of ice to her head.
>"I'm sorry about that, but please let us not talk about that traitor, she is dead now hopefully, she deserved it after what she tried.">"What she... urgh... tried?"
>Frown slightly then ease up.
>"I think the least i can do is to tell what you wanted from Lady Yukari, but i will have to keep some details secret because of her will.">You take a seat next to Marisa.
>Sit down if we can.
>"You wanted to know if i was involved in Miss Reimu's shooting correct ?"
>"She hurt my actual friends, and tried to possess one of them to fulfill her desires, let us end at that, it isn't a good set of memories...">"...That's all...? Did you see the... ngh... shooter?"
>Take a breath.
>"And yes... i was an eye witness of it, the first person to get there and try to aid her."
>"I did, but she ran away as soon as she realized what she did, however she was caught and is now awaiting trial.">"Do you know who it was...?"
>"No, i was not told, and even if i knew Lady Yukari wants to keep as many details as possible a secret in order to keep her safe until the trial, i am just telling you this because i think you deserve to know some of them, especially since she tricked you like before."
>Don't say that>You hold your tongue.
That will just make Marisa suspicious of us.
>"Yukari knows, but she hasn't told me, it seems like she doesn't want people to know who it is yet until the trial.">"Well then... I guess we'll just have to wait for the... ugh... trial then..." Marisa frowns, "...thanks..."
>"Yea-huh ? You found the book ?">You turn to Alice to find her flipping through the pages of a black book. Written on the cover in silver lettering is "Soma Arcana".
>Turn to Alice.
>"Yeah, if it can split a soul, then maybe it can split a body back into two.">"Hmm... There wasn't anything about splitting bodies in here if I recall correctly... I think at most you should be able to split the soul, and then transfer one of them into a vessel until you can find a way to split the body... I have a few spare life-sized dolls that might work as vessels if you want to go that route..."
>"Hm... it could work for now, but i would have to ask them, and their souls aren't together, they are actually still separate, so we don't need to split them right ?">"Huh? If their souls are already separate, then why are you even looking for a way to split their soul in the first place?"
>"I am not, i am trying to find a way to split their body, and the closest of a clue i got was this book, if only i could apply it's principles on a physical object...">"Oh... Well I'm sorry this book couldn't help you... We could check the rest of them, but that might take a while."
>"It's not like the book is completely useless, we might be able to get some more info from it.">"Alright... Would you like it then?" Alice asks.
>Nod and smile.>Alice nods and holds out the book to you.
>"Any help would be good."
>Accept it with a smile and store it in our satchel.>You take the book from Alice and place it in your satchel.
>Are the others with us, or did we leave them with the butt-less ghost?>They are still downstairs.
>Add Mental Note: Attempt to check ourselves and our friends for abnormal energies with someone like Patchouli's help, as YgMg specialized in it and could boost us...>
>"Thank you."
>"Now i guess it is time to go, again, thank you for your hospitality and time.">"Hey, don't mention it." Alice smiles as well.
>Smile and head downstairs.
>Locate Renko and head over to her.>You quickly find Renko and stand next to her.
>"A school for young magicians?">"Yeah..." Mima frowns, "It was an idea I had years ago. It didn't really work out well...."
>Whisper to Renko.>"Maybe..." Renko nods slightly.
>"We could probably consider Mima as help for teaching. Maybe after knowing her a bit more though..."
>"Marisa's not feeling well and Miss Patchouli isn't either. I'm not sure if there's other choices, but maybe more will open up after a while. We still have to help Rengeteki.">"Yeah..."
>"So, what kind of magic do you know Miss Mima?">"Oh, just various things ranging from basic fire conjuration to stars to destruction incarnate..." says Mima, "And considering I taught Marisa almost everything I know, I have most of the spells she uses..."
>"Most ?">"Well, yeah, there were some spells she picked up after we... parted ways... that I do not use."
>"Destruction incarnate? That sounds really dangerous to teach young magicians...">"Well no shit sherlock!" Mima frowns, "It's not something a young magician should learn, let alone be taught!"
>"Well why did you learn that in the first place ?">"I mostly created it to see if I could make something far more powerful that Marisa's Master Spark. And it worked, though I did have to dumb down the power a bit to make it a legal spellcard and yadda yadda yadda.... You know, thinking back on it, it would've been so useful to have back when I still wanted to take revenge on humanity... Oh, and don't worry about that, as I told your angel friend over there, those days are long behind me... "
>"So you are just living an relaxing life ? Well, i guess in your case it is afterlife ?">"Eh, not really." says Mima, "To tell you the truth, since I'm not trying to take my revenge on humanity anymore and that magician school idea went south, I really haven't had a purpose anymore... I'm mostly just waiting until an opportunity presents itself..."
>"Uh....">Mima laughs, "Since when did I ever say Marisa annoys me? If anything I'd annoy her. Heh..." she smirks, "Anyway, I do need an excuse to get out of the house, besides, it might give Alice some relief. And I like telling people what to do, so I wouldn't mind taking you on as my apprentices. But the question is, are you two ready to make a commitment?"
>Scratch our head.
>"...we wouldn't mind becoming your apprentices, then you wouldn't just be standing around here, besides..."
>Fidget.
>"...you would have an excuse to avoid being near Marisa whenether she starts to annoy you i guess."
>"Well... maybe not yet, but we'll try to come to you when we are.">"Oh... Alright then, well, you know where to find me."
>Nod.>"Alright." Renko nods, "Hey guys, I think we're leaving soon."
>"Now, we should go take a look on Regenteki, i hope that she is okay..."
>Try focusing on the image of the front of her shack.
>"Yup, it is right here on the satchel, so don't worry.">You create a gap to Rengeteki's house.
>Make a gap leading to said place.
>"Well bye everyone, tell Marisa that i wish the best od recoveries to her.">"Bye." Mima replies, being the only one in the room with your group.
>Wave with a smile at them and cross to the other side of the gap with our group.>You cross into the gap with your group...
>"Huh ?!?!?">"That doesn't look good..." says Renko, before following you.
>Quickly head inside and search for her !
>"I dunno ! I knew i should have come here earlier, but i was too busy with their issue... how stupid of me !">You hit the wall with your fist.
>Hit the wall with our fist.
>"What now....?">"Maybe she's still here?" says Renko, "Try calling for her."
>Keep searching for something, any clue.
>"Regenteki !!!">You call out for Rengeteki...
>Wait of any response.
>What time is it ?>You pull your cellphone out of your satchel.
>Go towards said wall.>You approach the wall, you notice that hidden among Rengeteki's wall scrawlings is the faint outline of a crawlspace entrance.
>"Regenteki are you alright ?!? What happened ?">"Is it really her? N-No... Trick! Must be a trick..." you hear Rengeteki's voice say, "W-Wait! T-They're right outside the crawlspace! T-They can hear me! I was doing so well s-shutting up too... I-I'm going to die b-before I r-repent... I'm gonna die I'm gonna die I'm gonna die I'm gonna die..."
>"Regenteki, it's really me, Maribel, don't worry, nobody will hurt you now.">"..."
>"Of course, why would i leave a friend in a big need of help all alone here ?">She returns the hug, a little tighter than you're hugging her.
>Smile and hug her gently.
>"I am glad you are safe, what happened here ?">"A-A ghost from my past... came back to haunt me..." she mumbles. "Sent underlings to finish the job, she did... still hates me, she does... the music... the soothing music... horrible memories... like the nightmares last night... repent... must repent..."
>"Soothing music ?">You look to Renko, Chen and Sumireko are just now entering the room.
>Look back to our group.
>"That was also in the newspaper."
>Look back to Regenteki.>"I-It doesn't matter... Y-You won't find her... S-She didn't even show up in person... sent underlings she did... I-I don't even know where she is..." Rengeteki frowns.
>"Who is she ? Please tell me, i want to protect you."
>Recall the names of that band from the lake.>You know one is named Raiko, but you don't know which. You never learned the names of the other two, but you do believe Kagerou called them the Tsukumo sisters.
>".....wait... is it that Layla girl ? Could you tell me her full name please ?">Rengeteki reluctantly nods.
>Gently rub her her hair.
>"How did she look like ? Describe her to me as well as you can dear.">"U-Um... Last time I saw her... she had green hair. Wavy hair. And green eyes. And a blue- N-No! Purple! I-I'm sorry! A purple dress. Um..." Rengeteki pauses, seemingly trying to remember more details, "S-She's a good musician... Plays lots of instruments... really good with the flute... she also has a baton... I-I know she used it for something, but I forget what... I-I'm sorry..."
>Does that match any of the musicians we met ?>It does not.
>"No, don't be sorry.">Rengeteki nods, "I-I told you when you were last here... S-She... S-She broke my arm a-and tossed me into a thorn bush..."
>Smile towards her.
>"I know how traumatic it was, she hurt you before right ?"
>Gesture to her body.
>"I noticed you moved your body a bit oddly when i met you, your upper body specifically, did she... hurt you there in the past ? Please show me."
>Pat her shoulder gently with a reassuring smile.
>"Relax Regenteki, this is just Renko, a special someone of mine, the cute cat youkai over there is Chen, and the winged one is Sumireko, but also Matenshi, it's complicated.">"They... T-They aren't going to hurt me...?" Rengeteki asks.
>Look at her arm.>Which arm?
>"Let me see your arm then, maybe we could treat it and have it back to normal, and maybe the same for your wings !">"Back... to n-normal...?" she lifts up her right arm and stares at it in contemplation.
>Smile joyfully.
>Gently examine her right arm.>You gently take her right arm and examine it.
>"So how well can you move it ?">Rengeteki attempts to close the fingers on her right hand, and you notice they don't close all the way... It wouldn't be a problem for grabbing a large object, but for smaller stuff it would be nearly impossible...
>Look worried.>Rengeteki tries to close it more, but winces in pain.
>"Does it hurt if you try to close it all the way ? Or can't you even try to do that ?"
>"Stop, it's okay.">"A-Are you sure?" Rengeteki asks.
>Gently pet her head.
>"Maybe we could take you to Dr. Eirin, she should be able to help, don't worry, i won't let anyone hurt you."
>Smile while petting her head.
>"So Regenteki, how did you make that part of the wall disappear for a while ?">"It's... something I could do... s-since as long as I can remember..."
>"Well that is an great ability, that was how you made the giant boulder disappear right ?">She nods.
>How is her ankle now ?>It seems much better.
>"So, want to come with us to see the Doctor ? No need to be scared, we will be there for you, and i am sure they will be happy to help you."
>"Yep ! They should at least be able to tell what is wrong with your hand.">"B-But..." She looks down and mumbles, "I-I already know what's wrong with it..."
>Look a bit curious.>"I-It just never healed right... A constant reminder of my sins... repent, must repent..."
>"You do? Then what is it ?"
>"What sins ?">"The reason s-she hates me..." tears begin to form in her eyes, "P-Please... I-I'd rather not go i-into details..."
>Look at her with an understanding face.
>"I am all ears, maybe i can help with that."
>Look back at our group.>"S-Sure." Renko replies, before heading out of the room.
>"Um... could you four please wait outside ?"
>Look at Regenteki and hold her hand.
>"Well Regenteki, you have to face your past if you want it to stop chasing you, no matter what you did, there is always forgiveness awaiting."
//You kept calling her Regenteki...//Uh, no I didn't. I've always said "Rengeteki"...
>"Rengeteki !">"W-Well... No... But that doesn't change the fact that it's still my fault..."
>Look at her decisively.
>"Did you mean to do what you did ?"
>"Stop being so harsh at yourself Rengeteki... cmon, tell me those whole story, this way i can show you that you shouldn't condemn yourself for all of what happened.">"I-I'd rather n-not... I-It's too painful..." she looks away and starts mumbling, "The nightmares are enough... Reminders it's my fault... All my fault... repent... must repent..."
>"I know it is painful for you, i can see, but if you don't face it you will have to keep enduring this pain forever...">"W-Was that p-person someone t-that meant e-everything to you? D-Did she also, i-in her last moments... g-give y-you a l-look of complete f-faith and t-trust before your a-actions e-erased her?!" she takes a few steps back from you, tears are now running down her cheeks in streams, "I-I doubt i-it... y-you couldn't e-even BEGIN to u-understand the pain I feel!"
>Look down.
>"Trust me, i also couldn't save the life of someone i cared about in the end..."
>"...you never told me that...i'm... sorry... i really am... but you aren't the only one that is afraid of what you can do...">You begin crying.
>Head to her shedding some tears.
>"My powers are so much of a responsibility too, because if i make the wrong move, i could destroy the world as we know it, and i could destroy the person that is everything to me too..."
>Gently embrace her.
>"I don't want you to be alone, i know more about that than you think... p-please, trust me...">"S-She would..." Rengeteki sniffles, "B-But I tried... A-And I just couldn't.... H-How could I be happy a-again anyway? L-Living with what I've done... T-The closest I-I came was with K-Kurumi and E-Elly but... I-I don't think they were e-even real... A-And now that t-the nightmares a-are back a-and L-Layla... I-I... I-I j-just can't stop thinking about it... more than e-ever..."
>Shed some more tears.
>"...she wouldn't like to see you like this right ? She would want you to live a happy life right ?"
>"Then i will find a way.... i will find a way to make you happy, i can't let you down...">"D-Do you really t-think... y-you can....?"
>Tighten our hug a bit.
>"...what is this feeling ? It is not love... but it is similar to how i feel about Renko... and it feels to be more than just friendship... is this... sisterhood ?">"W-What do you mean... Sisterhood...?" Rengeteki looks at you, confused.
>"I dunno... like, you are more than a friend to me, but it isn't like the love i feel for Renko, yet it is still some kind of love...">"...Heh..." she smiles slightly, "...A sister, huh... I-I never expected a-anyone to call themselves a sister..." she frowns, "Thanks for th-thinking of me that way... But I-I don't deserve a sister..."
>Put on a faint smile.
>"Well, either way, what i want to say is that i might care for you like a sister of some sort, similar to Renko and her sister Sumireko..."
>"What you deserve is to be happy, and i want to make that reality.">"...Y-Yes..." tears begin to well up in her eyes again, "I-It was the f-first and only time I-I've tried it on s-something that was... alive..."
>Smile a bit.
>"So... um... taking in account what you said in the conversations...does that mean..."
>Look a bit worried.
>...did she ask you to use your ability on her ?"
>Hug her again.>"W-We were i-in a cave..." she sniffles, "T-There was an accident, a-a cave-in she..." more tears roll down her cheeks, "s-she was p-pinned underneath the r-rubble while p-pushing us out of the w-way... W-We couldn't p-pull her out w-without hurting h-her.... A-And t-the p-pile w-was too big to p-phase... s-she suggested i-it... A-And..."
>"Why did she want to do that ?"
>Hold her tighten and caress her hair.>She continues to sob.
>"There there.... i am here with you, it's all okay."
>Once she is a bit more calm.>"B-But it is m-my f-fault! I-I should've l-listened t-to my g-gut... I-I s-should've n-never... L-Layla t-thinks i-it's m-my f-fault too... s-she t-thinks I-I did i-it on p-purpose... I-I..."
>"It isn't your fault Rengeteki, blaming yourself like this won't do any good... she wouldn't want this."
>Keep caressing her.>You keep caressing her until she eventually calms down.
>"Now, why don't we go outside to have some fresh air ?">After a few seconds she slowly nods...
>Slowly lead her outside.>You slowly escort her out of the room, you soon come across the rest of your group in the main room.
>"We talked about a very traumatic experience of her's.">"I see...."
>Gesture to the soaked part.
>"There are all tears....but she is okay now, we are going out for some fresh air before going to Eientei to get her some treatment."
>"Is everything alright outside?">"We don't know." says Renko, "We haven't gone outside the house."
>"We gotta be careful then, the people that ransacked her home might come back, and i am not letting them hurt any of you.">Renko nods.
>Head outside with our group carefully.
>"Well.now, let us take a breath and relax a bit now okay ?">"O-Okay... I-I'll try..." Rengeteki replies.
>Smile towards Rengeteki and take some breaths of fresh air.
>Look around.>You look around, the shack looks no different than when you arrived, the door is still kicked in and you can see the furniture strewn about inside.
>"Huh ?"
>Carefully approach the thing on the ground.
>Can we tell anything about the object from here aside from "it's lying in the grass"?>You approach the strange object.
>"Please stay here everyone.">You carefully pick up the block.
>Approach and pick up the object carefully.
>"Do any of you recognize this ?">"Nope." Chen shakes her head.
>Carefully show them the block, don't get close however.
>"Does Matenshi have no idea either Sumireko ?">"Yeah, Matenshi doesn't know what that is." Sumireko replies.
>Examine the object more closely.>You turn the object over in your hands.
>"Hm.... hey Rengeteki, do you remember if Layla's surname start with a 'P' ?">"I-I don't remember..." Rengeteki frowns, "...Maybe..."
>"Hmm....">You take out the pen and notebook and write a note to Yukari, then you wrap the block in it.
>Take out the the note with the pen or pencil, dunno.
>Write a note saying: "Know anything about this ?" Then wrap the block with the paper, and let it go inside the cap's special gap.
>Did it work ?>The block went into the gap without trouble.
>Nonetheless, wait.>You wait....
>Unwrap the paper and read it.>You unwrap the paper and read it:
>Blush a bit.>"Where?" Renko asks.
>"Um, so it turns out that there should be a place where we can find out what this is..."
>"Hmm... hey Chen, youkai are usually stronger than humans right?">"Yup. Why do you ask?" Chen tilts her head.
>"Nothing, nothing, thanks though.">"Oh, I know where that is." says Chen, "Yukari-sama sometimes has Ran-sama and I run errands there."
>Rub Chen's hair.
>"It is someplace called Kourindou, it's a shop in the Forest of Magic."
>"Oh, could you describe what it looks like on the outside please ? Then i could gap us there to make it quicker and find out what is this.">"Uh... It's kinda hard to describe..." Chen frowns.
>"Why hard? Is it looks different every time?"
>"Try to describe it as best as you can.">"Yeah, there's a lot of random junk out front, and it's different every time we go there... I don't even know if looks the same as last time..." Chen answers, "Do you still want me to describe it anyway?"
>"Um... when was it the last time you went there ?">"I dunno... I think it's been at least a year..."
>"Then it won't work... we can go there later, let's head for Eientei now i guess.">"D-Do you really think... t-they can be treated?" Rengeteki asks.
>Gently tap Rengeteki's shoulder.
>"We need to treat these wounds after all."
>Nod.>"If she was still around she could heal them..." Rengeteki says something very quiet to herself, you notice tears well up in her eyes again.
>"There must be a way, i will look for it myself if i have to."
>Make a gap leading to Eientei's front door.>You create a gap to Eientei. Rengeteki steps back from it a bit.
>"Here, this should take us to Eientei, the doctor i know lives there and could help you."
>"Don't worry !">You step into the gap, and end up in Eientei.
>Step inside the gap.
>"See ? It looks strange but it won't hurt you."
>Get out and lead Rengeteki to the gap.>You step back through the gap.
>"Yeah, cmon.">You extend your hand to Rengeteki, and she hesitantly takes it.
>Offer our hand to guide Regenteki into the gap.
>Enter the gap with our group.
>"See ? It wasn't that bad was it ? I am here with you so no need to worry.">"N-No... I guess it wasn't bad at all..." Rengeteki replies, "And o-okay."
>Smile and lead our group to the door.>You do so.
>Open and enter !>You enter the door.
>Head to the receptionist.>You approach the receptionist.
>"Excuse me, but would Dr. Eirin be available now ? We need her help with this young lady injuries.">"Dr. Yagokoro is out of the building at the moment. My apologies." the receptionist replies, "Reisen is filling in for her though, but depending on the seriousness of her condition she could at most stabilize her until Dr. Yagokoro returns."
>"Reisen could also help yes, it isn't urgent after all, when will the doctor come back however ?">"I'm not sure. Give her a couple hours."
>"Okay... so where can we find Reisen ?">"Right now she is in room 28. Down the hall, third door on the left."
>"Thank you.">You take your group and follow the directions to the room.
>Nod and head with our group to said room.
>Enter and wave.>"Oh, hello again." Reisen stops her conversation, "Yeah, your friend gave me a black eye yesterday... it should go away in a couple days. Anyway, what brings you here?"
>"Hey Reisen ! Are you alright ?"
>Look back at the Green-haired woman curiously too.>"Sanae Kochiya." she smiles, "It's nice to meet you."
>"Um.... oh ! We haven't met yet have we ? My name is Maribel Hearn, it is good to meet you Miss... ?"
>"What brings you here Ms. Kochiya?">"I was bringing her in to get her checked out..." Sanae gestures to the girl on the bed, "Apparently she was one of the girls that was abducted last night, and she managed to escape whoever took her, though she was in too much shock when I found her for me to get any answers. Hopefully, I'll have more luck when she's awake and calm... And please, call me Sanae. Ms. Kochiya just sounds weird..."
>"Wait... you mean the one on the newspaper with the soothing music ?">"Yeah."
>Look worriedly at Rengeteki.>You look at Rengeteki, she seems to be sticking close to you, and keeping you between herself and Reisen and Sanae
>"Didn't you say that you also heard a kind of soothing music when those people invaded your home Regenteki ?"
>Nod.>Sanae takes the block and studies it.
>"When we arrived at her home, the door was forced open and the place ransacked, fortunately she was hiding in a secret crawlspace with the help of her powers, we also got some clues, according to her, it was the work of a former friend of her's called Layla, and i also found this."
>Show Sanae the amber block.
>"I found this just outside of her home, we have no idea what it does though, however there are these engraved letters on it..."
>Gently caress Rengeteki's head.>You do so. Rengeteki doesn't seem to mind.
>"What do you think it is?">"I think it's a thing musicians use on string instruments to make the bow grip the strings better. I think it's called 'Rosin' or something like that... I used to see the orchestra members use it when I was in high school... Oh, wait, this is Gensokyo, you probably don't know what high school is..." Sanae smiles, before tilting her head thoughtfully, "Well, actually... Now that I think about it, your clothes don't really look like something someone from Gensokyo would wear... Where are you from, anyway?"
>Smile.>"WHOA! Really!?!" Sanae cuts you off, "I'm from there too! Hey, how different are things out there now? Do we have flying cars yet?"
>"Well, you got us, Renko here and i are from the outside world-"
>Shrug.>"It's pretty nice." Sanae shrugs, "Just gathering faith and resolving incidents. Anyway, you said there was something engraved on the back of this, right?"
>"It's life, still, i am happy to find someone like us, so, you are that other shrine maiden besides Miss Reimu huh ? How is that kind of way of life like ?"
>Turn to Reisen.>"Oh, sure." Reisen smiles, "Just lead her over to the vacant bed over there and I'll do the rest."
>"Also Reisen, would you mind examining my friend here, she has some really concerning injuries from her past..."
>"We suspect it to be from that Layla person that hates Rengeteki...">"Well, it's better than who I was thinking of. Is this Layla person a musician, maybe?" Sanae asks.
>Gently lead Rengeteki to the vacant bed.>You lead Rengeteki to the bed and she sits on it.
>"Okay Regenteki, now you gotta relax and let Reisen here examine your arm, and your wings also need to be examined too since you said that after they were hit you cannot fly anymore."
>"From what Rengeteki said, she played a lot of instruments.">"Oh... Okay... I wasn't planning on talking to her though..." Sanae replies, "So... Do you happen to know this Layla's surname? Maybe that could narrow the search down if she is the one behind the kidnappings."
>Get a bit closer to Sanae and whisper:
>"Also about her... she had a very *very* rough and disturbed life, so much has happened to her, that she was left with nothing, no friends, no family, flightless and defenseless, it is just unfair.... so please be careful when you talk with her..."
>"She said that it might have been related to Water or something.">"Well, if these are her initials, then there is only one water-related surname beginning with P that comes to mind..." says Sanae, "But it can't be that."
>Go to where Rengeteki is lying at.>"O-Okay..." Rengeteki smiles slightly in return before extending her right hand to Reisen.
>"Relax, she is just trying to help, i am here for you if you need to remember ?"
>Give her a soothing smile.
>"IT WAS A ACCIDENT! PLEASE CLAIM DOWN."
>"IT WAS A ACCIDENT! PLEASE CLAIM DOWN"
>Calm, not claim.>"P-Please d-don't let her h-hurt me again..." Rengeteki whimpers as you hug her.
>Gently, very gently hug her on the table, being careful of the arm.
>"I'm sorry i'm sorry i'm sorry..."
>Turn to Reisen worriedly.>"Well... painkillers aren't really meant to be given during an examination." Reisen frowns, "And I was only trying to find the spot on her arm that seemed to be the root of the problem... We could probably take an x-ray to see what the problem is without having to physically feel for it, but using it is expensive... Besides, it would probably be better if we waited for Eirin to get back. She likely knows the most efficient way to diagnose her painlessly..."
>"Don't you have any anesthetics around ? Anything to get rid of the pain so my friend doesn't suffer ?"
>"She didn't mean it dear... it's just that your injury seems very serious, it;s incredible how you spent all this time like that....">"...It's a-actually not that bad... I-I've lived w-with this for y-years..."
>Turn to Reisen and nod sadly.>"Well-" Reisen begins.
>"...can she at least stay here ? Her house was ransacked, so it isn't safe there anymore, and if she stays here we can request Dr. Eirin's help immediately once she comes back."
>"No ! It's not like that... did you see what happened to your home ? We can't let that happen again...">"N-No... L-Layla i-is dangerous.... I-I don't want y-you getting hurt p-protecting m-me..." Rengeteki looks you in the eye, "I-I d-don't want y-you hurt... B-But I-I don't w-want you to l-leave me either... you... y-you..." she turns away and mumbles so that you can barely hear it, "Y-You are the first person in a long time that I've consider a friend and that I truly feel safe around..."
>Hold her left hand.
>"I guess the only other way would be if you tagged with us too... i want to keep you safe from this Layla person...."
>Look a bit surprised by her words, then smile.>"T-Then l-let me c-come with you... b-but i-if we r-run into L-Layla or h-her underlings... j-just run... D-Don't try t-to fight..."
>"Regenteki... thank you, but i really care about your safety, and i can't let someone try to harm you, you are my friend... no... more than that.... you feel like family, like i said before."
>"She said that it wasn't Layla herself that came, but some people under her command it seems.">"Huh, so this rosin probably isn't even hers." Sanae frowns.
>Look back at her.>"P-Please don't...." Rengeteki replies.
>"Of course i will let you come, but if she threatens you, even if a tiny bit, i will fight them until you are back to safety."
>"Don't worry, i can hold my own, my powers would help me too, since i could make a gap for you to escape, and then i could follow you soon after, it would be alright.">You pat the frowning Rengeteki.
>Pat her head.
>"Who?">"Lunasa Prismriver. She's the violinist of the Prismriver Ensemble. They're like a 3-person orchestra."
>"The name isn't the same so... what does she look like ? Her appearance i mean.">"Well, she's blonde, has yellow eyes, and she wears primarily black clothing with a matching hat, and the hat has a red crescent moon decoration on the top. She always has her violin with her." Sanae replies.
>What did Layla look like again according to Rengeteki ?>Rengeteki described Layla as having green, wavy hair, as well as green eyes. And that she wears a purple dress.
>"Hm... it doesn't fit the description we have, Layla has an Green and wavy hair, with a matching eye color, and her dress is purple, not black....">"Well, that still doesn't rule out the fact that Lunasa might be a possible witness..." says Sanae
>Nod, then look worriedly.>"Which would be...?"
>"Or it could be the worst case scenario......"
>Look away.>"I doubt it." Sanae frowns, "It doesn't make sense for Lunasa or her sisters to do such a thing. They'd much rather perform."
>"That this Lunasa is one of the assailants that ransacked her home...."
>"I know... but the kidnappings don't make much sense either do they ? Why does music have to play before the person is kidnapped ? I just hope this ends soon...">"No, they don't. And I hope so too... I think I'll ask Lunasa about this rosin later... If she was a witness, then it least means I have a possible lead to whoever this 'Layla' is."
>Nod.>"Um... Sure, I don't see any problem with that. Though, I have to ask: Can you fight? I mean, this is an incident after all, and that usually means at least one spellcard duel is a given..."
>"May we come with you ? If this doesn't get solved, we will be continuously in danger while out there, so the more people working on it, the better."
>"Yes, i have no spellcard, but i can hold my own, and in case things get too dangerous i can gap us out of there.">"Gap?" Sanae tilts her head.
>"Well.... uh... it's my ability, i can create a sort of gap on borders, like this.">You create a gap, causing Sanae's eyes to widen in surprise.
>Make a gap in front of us leading to the other side of the room.
>"It's very useful for transportation."
>"You mean Lady Yukari ? No, i just look a lot like her by coincidence, and i am not a youkai either so....">"Well, I need to get something from my shrine first. And you said you don't have any spellcards, right? Can you at least use danmaku?"
>Shrug.
>"Anyways, where are we going ?"
>"Yes of course, so, could you describe your shrine for me, that way i could make a gap leading there.">"Well, it's near the summit of Youkai Mountain. And we have like a little storage shed off to the side. And our donation box is in front of the entrance. Um... How detailed do you want it?"
>"Stuff like it's size, the colors of the walls, windows, how does the front door look like, basically that stuff.">Sanae begins to describe the shrine and its surroundings in more detail.
>Start focusing on a image as Sanae describes it.
>"There, i think i got it.">You create a gap.
>Make a gap that leads to said place, same way we learned with our mother.
>"There we go, let's go everyone.">You head through the gap with your party.
>Beckon Sanae, Rengeteki, Renko, Chen and Sumitenshi and head inside.
>"Huh ? About what Renko ?">You begin following Sanae.
>Follow that Shrine maiden !
>"With no destination? Like, just trying to open one? I don't know..."
>"Hm.... i dunno, i will try that later.">"I wonder what will happen... So anyway, what are we going to do once we find this L-"
>"Wah !">Chen is still wincing from the feedback.
>Check up on little Chen and see what was this thud.
>You turn around to see Rengeteki underground(Shouldn't it be "on the ground" instead? I know it must have been quite the shock but I don't think that she was that badly shaken...)
>"D-Don't come any closer!">You get into a stance and put yourself between Rengeteki and the figure.
>Try to enter into a fighting stance of some kind and get between the mysterious figure and Rengeteki.
>Review what we can do in a fight.//corrected.
//Also:(Shouldn't it be "on the ground" instead? I know it must have been quite the shock but I don't think that she was that badly shaken...)
//We taught her so well. (tear). I miss the good ol' Wind Priestess Quest group.//Good times, good times...
>"Stop right there!"
>Frown disapprovingly.>"But I surprised you didn't I?" the girl keeps smirking.
>"That wasn't funny and it was far too loud."
>"Are you alright Rengeteki?'>"I-I'm fine..." Rengeteki replies.
>Sigh.>"Oh, sorry." says the girl.
>"Then apologize to little Chen at least, you made her ears hurt it seems."
>Help Chen uncover her ears and gently pet her.>You help uncover Chen's cat ears.
>"Are you okay Chen ?">"I'm sorry, Maribel, but can you speak up? My ears are ringing..." Chen replies.
>Look at the mystery girl with a slight frown.>"Nyaa~" Chen mews as you being rubbing her ears, "M-Maribel, what are you... oh... t-that's nice..." she starts purring.
>"See ? Please be more careful later..."
>Rub Chen's ears, like a massage.
>"So you can feel better dear, plus you are just too adorable to not do that.">Chen continues to purr, her tails curl up in an adorable manner. Prompting more "Aww"s from your group.
>Keep rubbing her ears.
>Smile while still rubbing Chen's ears.>You turn to Sanae and the mystery girl, smiling, while continuing to rub Chen's ears.
>"So are you two, um, like, a couple ? Like Renko and i ?"
>"Ehehe ! Yeah, after some events here in Gensokyo, our relationship had a big leap and then it just happened, so... i can see that you are also some special case that stops aging too, which is something that we are working on too.">"Well, I haven't really stopped aging yet." Sanae replies, "But I'm getting there. Anyway, let's all head inside. Um... Sorry for not warning your about Kogasa, by the way."
>Look back at Chen and stop rubbing her ears a bit.>"Mhmm~!" Chen nods.
>"Does it feel better now dear ?"
>Smile back at Sanae.>"Yeah, I don't mean to hurt anyone." says the girl, "I just surprise people."
>"Relax, she is fine now, i am sure that Kogasa didn't mean to do harm."
>Pet Chen and have our group follow that shrine maiden.>You pet Chen one last time and start following Sanae and Kogasa.
>"Huh ? What is that ?">You enter the main room of the shrine.
>Keep following.
>Nod and bow.>"Nice to meet you too, I am Kanako Yasaka," says the purple haired woman, "the patron goddess of the Moriya Shrine."
>"Nice to meet you, my name is Maribel, a student from the outside world, and these are my companions, Renko, little Chen, Regenteki, whom was also one of the victims from this incident, and Sumireko or Matenshi depending on the soul you talk to, long story."
>"Hey, were you just talking with someone on the phone just now? How'd you get yours to work?">"The Kappa helped us set up a cell phone network." says Kanako, "We tried distributing the phones, but it didn't catch on as well as we hoped."
>"Huh.... hey ! You are goddess huh ? Can any of you heal injuries please ?">"It depends on the severity of the injury, and how much faith we would gain from the act." says Kanako.
>"Guh... looks like we are out of luck Rengeteki...">"D-Do you really mean that?" Rengeteki asks.
>Gently pat her in the back.
>"But i promise your arm will be okay again, and that your wings will be okay too,even if i have to spend a long time studying for a way."
>Nod.>"T-Thank you." Rengeteki smiles.
>"I can't leave someone hurt like this, especially you or Renko."
>Smile back at her.>"Hmm? What do you mean?" Kanako asks.
>"Anyways, i have another question for you then, would you be able to separate a fused body into two again ?"
>Point to Sumitenshi.>"Huh, interesting..."
>"Welll, here is the case, this person is actually two, basically there are two souls inhabiting this body, and the body here is a kind of fusion from their original bodies."
>"So now we are working on how to undo that.">"What have you tried so far?" Sanae asks.
>Shrug.
>"My abilities are no good for that sadly..."
>"Well nothing yet, i only know as much as spatial boundary manipulation, like this.">You create another gap. The goddesses' eyes widen in surprise. Ruukoto seems to tilt her head with curiosity.
>Demonstrate again by making a gap leading to the other side of the room.
>"And i took them to Lady Yukari for some help already... she said that if we do it her way we wouldn't have to sacrifice one of their soul and consequently their part of the body for the other to live, and no way i will sacrifice anyone's life."
>"Well from what we have been through it is already a miracle for us to be alive...">Sanae nods, before taking out some kind of stick with a piece of paper at the end.
>Sigh.
>"But sure go ahead, any ideas to help are appreciated."
>"What did you try?">"All I did was try a miracle to separate them." says Sanae, "I don't understand why it didn't work..."
>"Maybe we still need two bodies...">"But if they were separated, wouldn't their bodies split as well?" Renko asks.
>"This must have been what Lady Yukari warned us about.... we can put their souls on different bodies i guess though, buti think their original bodies will remain merged.">"I thought Miss Yukari said that 'their souls are intertwined' or something like that." says Renko, "I don't think she mentioned anything wrong about their bodies."
>"Did she ? Hm... if that is true then maybe the book's information would work.">"Maybe."
>Do we recall the same thing ?
>"Hm... if only we had a magician that was in the state to do that, but Miss Patchouli isn't in the best of shape, and Marisa is still recovering..."
>"Hm... if only we had a magician that was in the state to do that, but Miss Patchouli isn't in the best of shape, and Marisa is still recovering...">"Hmm... Have you tried Byakuren Hijiri yet?" Sanae asks, "Wait. You've probably never met her... Anyway, she's also a magician, and I'm pretty sure she specializes in stuff involving the body..."
>Sigh.
>"Well, about your miracles, could you at least try to minimize the pain Regenteki feels please Sanae ?">"I could try I guess."
>"What about your wings however ? They were what made you fly right ? And they are also hurt.">"I-I don't know... maybe.... I just know I haven't been a-able to fly in y-years..."
>Examine Rengeteki's wings.
>"I will try to touch them now okay ? Tell me if it hurts.">"O-Okay..."
>Very gently touch her wings, how do they feel ?
>"Um... i am touching them, have they always been this soft ?">Rengeteki nods.
>"Have you tried to touch them yourself?">"Yes... I-I guess I still c-can't feel them..."
>Can we see if the wings are directly attached to her back ? Or do they float near her back like a fairy's ?>You think they're directly attached.
>Turn to Sanae.>"Maybe." says Sanae, "You want her to be able to feel her wings again, right?"
>"Do you think you could help Sanae ?"
>Nod.>Sanae concentrates again and brandishes the gohei.
>"Basically back to how they were before Miss Yuuka shot at her."
>"No ! Wait up ! Don't go !">You fly after her and grab her in the left arm.
>Fly after her and grab her CAREFULLY, and not by the right arm.
>"Please ! I'm sorry ! I cannot predict what will hurt or not Rengeteki ! Forgive me !">"W-We're n-not even r-related! A-And you l-let someone h-hurt me twice now!" She starts to shed her own tears, "H-How a-am I s-supposed to t-trust you! I-I k-knew a-another chance at f-friendship w-was t-too good to be-"
>Shed some tears.
>"I just want to find a way, any way, you said you couldn't feel your wings, but when she did it you could feel them again, that means that if you want your wings back, you have to endure it."
>Hold her LEFT/non-injured hand with conviction.
>"Please trust me, i beg you, can you see that i am being truthful to you ? Why would i harm someone like family to me ?"
>Hug her tightly.>You embrace her.
>"Rengeteki, when we met, you ran away because you were scared of me, remember ?"
>"When you tripped and sprained your ankle, you thought it was your end right ? But it wasn't was it ? It was a good thing, i helped you get back home, put you on the bed and promised to go back and visit you again didn't i ?">"Y-You did..."
>Gently tap her back.
>"I know it hurt really bad, but if you felt your wings again, doesn't that mean that it was working ?">"I-I don't k-know..."
>Stare at her eyes.>She remains silent.
>"What if this is the only way to restore them back to how they were ? It might be the only way for you to finally be able to fly again."
>Turn back to Sanae.>"I could use another miracle to numb the pain..." Sanae frowns, "But I can only perform so many miracles in a day and I've already used three or four. I'd rather keep some faith in reserve in case I need to use a miracle for the incident. I'm sorry..." Sanae's frown shifts to a smile, "...But I'll definitely be able to do it tomorrow. I can promise you that!"
>"Is there a way to minimize the pain she will feel ? Or is enduring it the only way ?"
>"No it's alright, i should have planned it better anyways.">Rengeteki shakes her head.
>Look back at Rengeteki and touch her wings gently.
>"Do you feel anything now ?"
>"It's alright... but there are things that you can't run away from Rengeteki, so when one of them appear, you will have to be brave, and confront it.">"Oh yeah. Let me grab what I came here for. I'll be back in a minute." Sanae quickly walks out of the room.
>Look back to Sanae.
>"Say, are we ready to go now ? We do have an issue to deal with about kidnappings."
>"Sure.">"N-No they aren't!" Rengeteki frowns, "Heh... you know... s-she... s-she also said that t-they were c-cute o-once..."
>Pat Rengeteki on the back.
>"Your wings are really cute you know ? It's almost like they were weaved with a smooth material."
>"Sorry....">"H-Her name w-was-"
>Look a bit curious.
>"You know, you never told me her name.... what was her name ?"
>"Hold on...">You look and see a red-haired cat girl in a black dress approaching the kotatsu with a file, she seems a bit worried about something. Kanako is walking to the kotatsu with her.
>Take a quick peek to see who it is.
>"Koishi ? She didn't go back home ?">"Huh!?! You know her!?" the catgirl looks at you.
>Approach with a worried look.>You let go of Rengeteki and approach.
>"The last time i saw her she was at Eientei, i don't know where she is now however... which is bad, because i promised to go with her to talk with her sister..."
>"My name is Maribel, and i met Koishi during my travels around Gensokyo, we kinda got to become friends after a lot of events that resulted in her eye opening again, and i promised her to help her talk with her sister about that later, so if you find her please tell me.">"Well, I will if I can find you- Wait. Her eye opened!?!" the catgirl looks shocked.
>Nod.>"Yeah, she is a good person..." the catgirl's ears droop a bit, "I hope we can find her..."
>"It was an accident, my abilities reacted to her eye and then it just opened, and now she is confused about it, i keep telling her that she shouldn't have to close her eye again, that i would be her friend even with the mind reading."
>Smile.
>"Satori or not, she is a good person, and that power isn't harmful, because i know she can keep things secret."
>What time of day is it?>You check your phone for the time.
>!!!>"Huh? Why?" Orin asks.
>Look very worried.
>"Excuse me Orin, but would you mind telling ne how old is Koishi ?"
>Turn back to Sanae.>"Yes, only humans seem to have been targeted." Sanae replies
>"Hey Sanae, was it only human woman that were abducted in this incident ? Or did youkai also get abducted ?"
>"Then she shouldn't be in risk of beinf kidnapped hopefully, besides she must be able to defend herself i bet, either way, we can use Renko's power in case we still can't find her.">"We'd have to wait until nightfall before that can happen though." Renko frowns, "And hope there isn't any cloud cover..."
>"We just came from Eientei, we didn't see her on the way however, but she could have been on another room too.">"All the more reason to check there."
>Look back to Rengeteki and stand by her side.>You look at Rengeteki
>"So... what was her name ? We could make a proper place, like a small shrine to wish for her a good rest.">"I-It was Rin..." she murmurs quietly as tears start to roll down her cheeks once more, "Rin Satsuki... A-And what's the point of w-wishing someone who was erased a rest...? B-Because of me... s-she never e-even had c-chance to go to the a-afterlife..."
>"Then you honor the time she existed, you can't let her be forgotten right ?">"I-I couldn't forget her even if I wanted to... my sins a-always remind me of her... Must repent..."
>Hold her Left hand.>"Y-Yeah... I guess you're right..." she looks down.
>"I didn't want you to be forgotten in that forest forever, and i bet neither would she."
>Carefully rub her hair.>"Why do you care so much about me, Maribel...?" Rengeteki murmurs
>"I want to make you smile again."
>"Because i hate seeing people in pain."
>"And because i can see that you are a nice person, besides.... i have a good feeling about you too.">"But am I really a nice person after what I've done all those years ago...?"
>"Did you have any other choice ? It was either try that or trying to remove the rocks...">"I-I don't know if there was another option..."
>"And there were still rocks falling right ?">"Well... no... but phasing or removing any of them might have caused another cave-in or crushed her... C-Can we please not talk about this anymore... I-I've been reminded of that d-day... m-my failure... my s-sin too m-much."
>"Sure dear of course...">S-Sorry..." Rengeteki sniffles.
>Rub her head again.
>"Cmon, don't cry...."
>"It's okay....">Orin is talking with the goddesses.
>What are the others doing ?
>Turn to Sanae.>"I'm ready when you are." Sanae replies.
>"Are we ready ? We can't just stay still here."
>"I think we are all done, right ?">Your companions nod in agreement.
>Look to our companions.
>Look back at Sanae.>"Correct. And it's an old, ruined mansion." says Sanae, "It's pretty close to Misty Lake."
>"So we are going to meet this Lunasa correct ? If so would you be able to describe the place we are going to ?"
>"Hmm...>You imagine an old, ruined mansion close to the lake.
>Close our eyes and start making the image on our mind.
>"Anything else ?"
>"Okay...">You do so.
>Add those details to the image, the burnt parts of the walls, the white and purple paint that must be wearing off, and the vegetation starting to invade the place.
>"How close to the lake do you think it is? Where would the other mansion be from it?">"It's actually a little bit into the forest. The top of it barely pokes above the treeline. As for distance from the Scarlet Devil Mansion... I think it's about two thirds down the lake from it."
>Add that to the image, does it shimmer now ?>You add it to the image, though you are unsure exactly how far into the forest "a little bit" means. You are also unsure how to factor the Scarlet Devil Mansion into account here, since you probably wouldn't be able to see it through the trees.
>Add a small portion of the Misty Lake in the back of the image.>You add a visual of Misty Lake behind the mansion, through the treeline.
>"Um... can't you be a little more specific please ?"
>"It's because i can't really seem to fit the Scarlet Mansion and the lake in the picture...">"I don't think you can see the Scarlet Devil Mansion from the Prismrivers' mansion. And I think you could barely see the lake depending on what angle you're looking from."
>"Yeah... no dice, we have to take the longer road.">You recall how the lake shore closest to the SDM looked. And create a gap leading to there.
>Recall the shores of the lake, and attempt to make a gap leading to the shore nearest of the Scarlet Mansion.
>"Alright, this should work, cmon.">You start heading towards the gap.
>Head through with our group.
>"Oh...">You create a small gap next to Meiling's head and poke her through it.
>Make a very small gap, enough to fit our arm, just besides Meiling's head.
>Gently poke her head through the gap.
>"Miss Meiling, cmon, you shouldn't be sleeping at this hour."
>"Meiling, Meiling, cmon ! Wake up ! Miss Sakuya is coming !">You poke a bit harder. Prompting a couple of giggles from your group.
>Poke her a bit harder.
>Do we still have that bucket ?>You check for the bucket, before you quickly realize that you forgot to take it with you when you left Hakugyokurou last night. Who knows if it's still there.
//Sorry.>You do not.
>If we don't, do we have any container for liquids ?
>"Okay... let's try this...">You create a gap over Meiling's head, with the other end by the lake.
>Make a very small gap above Meiling's head, near the lake.
>Gather some water from the lake and throw it at Meiling through the gap.
//Why take the bucket out of our satchel anyways ?
//Um... first we could just put stuff inside it like it said before, and second, it's not at home, it's at the Netherworld.....>You don't think she can hear you through the gap.
>"Finally ! Good thing Miss Sakuya didn't come check up on you."
>Close that one and make a gap in front of her.>You close the gap and open a new one in front of her, causing her to jump.
>"If you kept sleeping like that she would have seen it."
>Pop our head to the other side.>You stick your head through.
>"Finally, i thought you were gonna sleep forever, what is Miss Sakuya saw you like this again ?"
>"Well you shouldn't be slacking off like that anyways, what if someone sneaked in ?">"Well, in all honesty, if someone were to sneak in, they wouldn't have to go by me... There's literally nothing stopping people from flying over the wall in some other spot unless someone else is in the right place at the right time."
>"Then why don't you patrol around the perimeter ? Or hire some more guards to help ? I bet even fairies like that Daiyousei one i met before would help too.">"If I patrolled the perimeter, it would leave the gate unguarded." Meiling frowns, "Besides, using fairies is also out of the question. It's not like they're strong enough to hold their own against most intruders anyway, even in small groups. They're much more effective inside, where there's less room to maneuver. Plus, as Sakuya puts it, fairies from outside the mansion could be a bad influence on them. Especially if they're recruiters from the fairy village. So letting some fairies out here would increase the risk of that kind of bad influence happening."
>"Yet you just said that being here leaves the other areas unprotected, and yeah, i guess the fairy thing is true, it's kinda sad they have no parental figure to lead them, since they are basically kids.">"Well, I think Sakuya is a bit of a parental figure to them in a way... well, a rather strict one.... but, strictness aside, a lot of them do look up to her and see her as a role model. Though, I can't say the same about wild fairies..."
>Slight frown.
>Look back.>You withdraw your head from the gap and look behind you.
>"Huh ?"
>"Yeah, she is a small youkai girl, really adorable too, and those are her friends.">"S-So she's harmless...?" Rengeteki asks.
>"Yep.">When she gets closer you realize she's heading right for a nearby boulder.
>Is something on her path ?
>"Rumia watch out !">"Huh?" Rumia asks, continuing to fly.
>If she doesn't hear us try to make a gap right in front of her leading to us.
//Where is everyone ?//Are you talking about the rest of the players, or the NPCs?
>"Ugh....ow....yeah... i think...">"Nnnn.... Maybe..." Rumia says, dazed.
>Who caught us ?
>Do we feel our body ?>You can, and your stomach still hurts.
>"Not really, hey Rumia, you okay ?">"I... think so...?"
//I have certain reasons for being less active here...//It's not me, is it? :ohdear: Have I gotten worse at parsing? Is my storyline bad or not interesting anymore? Did I do something to upset you?
>Check ourself and try to see if any of our regular actions like walking or flying are more tiring thanks to the hit.>You don't think the hit knocked the wind out of you, but you're certainly in pain. Though you could probably still walk or fly.
//No. If things are dying out and an easy post is doable, I'll probably do it to advance things.>You take a moment to catch your breath.
>"Just gimme a second, please..."
>Take a moment to rest.
>"Thanks Meiling.">"Hey, no problem." Meiling answers.
>"At least you didn't crash into something harder Rumia...">"Yeah, Rumia. That could've been very bad!" Daiyousei frowns, before turning to Cirno as she arrives, "Cirno-chan, I knew this wasn't a good idea!"
>"Huh ? What idea ?">"We were playing tag, and Rumia was it, and she couldn't see us so I wanted to see how far she'd go." says Cirno.
>Get up and help Rumia get up too.>You would, but Rumia is on top of you.
>"Um, Rumia, could you please get up ? You're kinda on top of me.">"Oh, sure." Rumia stands up and dusts herself off.
>"Thanks Renko.">You allow Renko to help you to your feet.
>Smile and accept her aid to get up.
>Nod.>You dust yourself off.
>"Don't worry Rengeteki, a small bump doesn't hurt all that, we are both fine."
>Move our body to show her that, then dust off the dirt on our clothes too.
>"Don't worry, i don't plan on going anywhere besides Gensokyo.">Rumia shrugs, "I just don't like traveling in the light."
>Smile and turn to Rumia.
>"Why do you fly with that weird darkness ball anyways if you keep bonking your head on trees ?"
>"Well what do you prefer then ? Hitting trees while flying or flying with the sun around ? You could just make that darkness above you only.">"Um... No I can't..." Rumia frowns.
>When we saw the ball of darkness, did the ball itself cast a shadow?>It did not.
>"You can't ? Why ?">"I just can't..." Rumia looks down, "Here, watch..."
>Look a bit puzzled.
>"Can you tell me more about this strange ribbon, Rumia?">"Huh? That? Oh, I've had that for as long as I can remember." Rumia replies, "Apparently it's a seal or something... I can't touch it."
>Add: "When you were trying to make an umbrella out of the darkness, I saw it shimmer for a second.">"Is that so?" Rumia tilts her head, "I don't think it ever shimmered before..."
//Screwing with boundaries for Rumia's ribbon might yield similar results to Koishi. I'm sure Maribel would be curious enough to try it, but also worried enough not to try it thanks to how Koishi reacted.//Yeah, I know this qualifies as meta-gaming, but I'm really not interested in releasing the seal on a youkai that is many times stronger than we are.
//Screwing with boundaries for Rumia's ribbon might yield similar results to Koishi. I'm sure Maribel would be curious enough to try it, but also worried enough not to try it thanks to how Koishi reacted.>"Yup."
>"A seal?"
//Yeah, I know this qualifies as meta-gaming, but I'm really not interested in releasing the seal on a youkai that is many times stronger than we are.>Rumia shrugs, "I just can't. It's like trying to touch fire."
>"Why can't you touch it?"
>"How long have you had that ribbon, anyway?"
>"Huh? That? Oh, I've had that for as long as I can remember." Rumia replies, "Apparently it's a seal or something... I can't touch it."
>"How hot does it feel? Do you think you could just do it quickly?">"Like, really, really hot." Rumia tries to touch the ribbon to demonstrate, only to quickly jerk her hand away in pain as soon as her finger makes contact. "Ow..."
>"Oh... Probably best not to bother it, I guess...">Rumia frowns a little.
>Pat her head.>You pat her head.
>"Aw relax, look at the good things, you have all these friends that care for you Rumia, some weird ribbon can't take them away from you right ?">"I know... But I've always been curious if I could ever do anything beyond my ball of darkness... I always feel I could do much more, but my ribbon... it feels like it's always holding me back..."
>Smile a bit.
>"If only we could first a way to make sure everything goes okay...">"Would you need to?" Cirno asks, "I mean what's the worst that could happen?"
>"It could probably just let her control her darkness better. Or maybe she would make all of Gensokyo dark...">"I don't think Rumia will do something like that. Reimu would just beat her up before she could."
>"I know, i am just thinking stuff too much.">You start gently petting Rumia.
>Pet Rumia.
>"Besides all of her friends live here, so doing that would be bad for everyone."
>"Huh ?">You stop petting Rumia, only to realize that you already stopped. And that your hand is now on her ribbon, and seems to have been tugging at it. It definitely looks slightly looser now.
>Stop petting her and look a bit confused.
>"NO! I THOUGHT YOU DIED!"
>Put our other hand on the eye.
>Try poking it out if that doesn't work.
//Hey, not all that, we have been on our guard for this kind of thing, plus others are looking at us.>You reflexively let go and hold your hand.
>Let go of the ribbon, step back and hold our hand.
>"Eargh !"
//We haven't really been on guard for it. We've been enjoying our time, playing with Meiling just a bit and meeting Rumia with Rengeteki.>"H-Huh!? But how? She's dead, Merry...."
>"I-I didn't mean to try and grab it, b-but I saw her again! S-She was looking right back at me."
>Examine our hand and try to stop shaking if we are.>You stop shaking and examine your hand.
>"Uh, s-sorry.">"Merry...?" Renko looks even more worried.
>"Gotta get a grip... She's dead. It's not real... I'm worrying Renko too much."
>"I'm alright Renko. I'm just a bit unfocused."
>Take a hold of Renko's hand.>"A-Alright... If you say so..." Renko smiles slightly, "But if something was really wrong, you'd tell me, right?"
>"As long as you are with me i will be okay..."
>Nod.>"Alright."
>"But of course Renko."
>"Uh huh, it's alright now, it's gone now.">"It?"
>Look at the others, how are they faring ?
>Approach Rumia again.>"But it's loose!" Rumia frowns, "And it felt good when it was loosened! Like something heavy was starting to lift off my shoulders."
>"Um, Rumia, maybe you shouldn't keep trying that, you are hurting yourself with that..."
>Look a bit worries.>"I didn't think anyone would want to..."
>"...did you ever ask someone else to take a look at it for you ? Maybe they could find out if it's safe to take it off or not."
>"Ehehe, relax you two.">Cirno continues to frown.
>Turn back to Rumia.>"But she's boring! Maybe I could ask Flan..."
>"You see ? A lot of people would like to help, why not ask Miss Patchouli from the mansion, she should know if it is safe to take it off, we don't want you getting into trouble right ?"
>Tap her shoulder gently.
>"We need someone that is very knowledgeable about stuff like this, and Miss Reimu is busy with this recent incident so she isn't available now, if you do it suddenly something bad could happen.">"Is that so?" Rumia asks.
>Smile.>Rumia slowly nods.
>"But i will try to help, you trust me right ?"
>"So i guess we can be friends ?">"I guess."
>Perk up a bit.>"There's this giant toad that lives on the mountain that ate me once," says Cirno, "I'm going to give it some payback!"
>"Great !"
>Turn back to the others.
>"So what is this story about a frog i hear ?"
>"Oh my, how did you escape?"
>"And why did he eat you ? Were you messing with him ?">"I was just minding my own business, freezing frogs, and he showed up outta nowhere and ate me! I had to valiantly fight my way out of his mouth and I barely got out alive!"
>"Freezing frogs?">"Yeah!" Cirno smiles, "It's one of my favorite things to do! Just take a frog, freeze it, watch it thaw... It's really fun! Though they do shatter sometimes though..."
>"Shatter? If I saw someone hurting other humans, I'd want them to stop... Maybe the big toad might've felt that way.">"But frogs aren't like humans. Besides, it's not like I mean to shatter them. It just happens every once in a while."
>"So why do you still do it if it does that to them ? Do you like harming others ?">"Because it's fun. Besides, it's not like I'm doing it to a human or a fellow fairy. I mean, you humans squish bugs all the time. What's the difference?"
>"Well we don't think that squishing bugs is fun. Some of us wish we could just avoid some of them.">"C-Can we please stop talking about squishing bugs..." Wriggle fidgets.
>"And the frog was just standing there minding his business, you wouldn't like being frozen still suddenly for someone's fun would you ?">"Well, no." Cirno replies, "But frogs and fairies are completely different thingies."
>"Well frogs have feelings too, and who knows ? What if you find a frog youkai ? Or what if messing with that frog again will make ALL the frogs start attacking you ?">"What are they gonna do? The giant toad is the only one that can eat me!"
//Huh, I'd try to ask what the rest of Cirno's friends think of the frog freezing, but I don't wanna make it seem like I'm abandoning the conversation or avoiding the question.>You try to remain calm and patient. She should get it eventually, right?
>Try to be patient, even though we never expected to teach a child basic morality today.
>"What if there's more than one giant toad, and you just don't know it yet?">"Well then I'll beat them up too!"
>"Besides, don't you know about the 'Karma System' ?">"The what now?"
>"Shh ! Pipe down you two !">"Fine." Matenshi rolls her eyes.
>Sigh.>"Well, I treat my friends well. But freezing frogs isn't really that bad. They're fine once they thaw. Unless they shatter... But that's only like one in..." she starts counting on her fingers, holding up ten. "One in this many frogs! ...Give or take."
>"Karma is related to how you behave, treating others well gives you good karma, and if you keep doing that a lot of good things happen, like getting a nice gift or becoming stronger or meeting a new friend, but if you do bad things to others, you get bad karma, and then bad things start happening to you, like losing something important, have a bad fight with a friend and get upset with each other, and if you keep doing it still, your worst nightmares will become reality, and you could be eaten by an even bigger frog."
>"But that isn't nice at all, the frogs have other friends too i bet, what if they are like you with Daiyousei, Wriggle and Rumia ? Would you like if one of your friends got eaten just like you did ? Maybe you being eaten was a way to tell you to stop freezing frogs, and if you don't...">"WHOA!" Cirno goes wide-eyed, "I didn't know that scary sunflower lady was a frog youkai this whole time! And she's pretty strong too! I should freeze her after I'm done with the giant toad!"
>Look worried and pat her on the back.
>"What if a very strong frog youkai like the one on the sunflower fields comes and teaches you a lesson ? And keeps feeding you to a giant frog ever time a frozen frog shatters ?"
>Sigh.>"Oh... Well, I'd beat up that frog youkai too, because I'm the strongest!"
>"No... i meant a frog youkai as strong as Miss Yuuka Cirno... not that Miss Yuuka is a frog youkai."
>"If you say so... but keep doing that and you will end up like a friend i had, she kept doing some bad things and then she had her clothes stolen, forcing her to go back home completely naked.">"How stupid do you have to be to get your clothes stolen? You like... wear them all the time!" Cirno frowns, "That'll never happen to me because I'm not stupid!"
>Shrug.
>"That could happen to you too, or maybe even worse, you could bump into the tengu journalist, and then eeeeeeveryone would be able to see the naked you because of her."
>"Well you can't do anything if you are sleeping right ? What if they catch you on your sleep ? Or use sleeping magic on you ?">"Well I... um... uh..." Cirno seems to think for a moment, "Aha! How will they even steal my clothes if I'm laying down asleep, hmm?"
>"But what if they tied her up while she was asleep? Or they all held her down and she wouldn't be able to escape from the grasp?"
>"She could also be a heavy sleeper, and they would just need to be careful when moving her.">"That's stupid. How can they remove my clothes if they're under ropes used to tie me up!? Besides, I can just freeze the ropes!" Cirno exclaims.
>"What if they have a way to keep you asleep, and you can't wake up on your own?">"Well, then Dai-chan would wake me! I can always count on her!" Cirno sage nods.
>"I guess you have a lot of ways past it...">"Of course I do!" Cirno replies, "I'm a genius!"
>"Well, this is still just one of the many punishments for that, you could always be locked up like how Miss Yuuka did to that fairy from before.">"So what? I could freeze whatever they're holding me in, or Dai-chan can bail me out."
>"So you can get out of anything?">"I think so." says Cirno
>Have we ever tried to create more than two passages with gaps?>You have not.
>Try to picture an image of the gap space where we talked with our mother, does it shimmer ?>You imagine a purple, eye-filled void. Surprisingly, it does not shimmer.
>Hm... try just making a gap, without any special destination, if it doesn work, try making a gap to somewhere, and closing one of them and leaving the other open.>You try to create a gap to no set destination, but you can't seem to find a boundary to make one on.
>Make a gap to a random place we can see, then step inside, but stay at the eye space area.>You create a gap to a random spot in your vision. You start to feel that slight bit of fatigue again.
>"I am just doing some experimenting, don't worry.">"Oh, okay." says Cirno, "Anyway what were we talking about again? I swear it was important."
>Exit and undo the gaps.>You exit and close your three sets of gaps before locating Sanae.
>Locate Sanae.
>"Sorry if I got too sidetracked...">"It's fine." Sanae replies, "Everyone gets sidetracked sometimes-- Well... Maybe not Reimu...--but the point is that it's not a big deal."
>"Ah, yes. It would be a shame if Reimu were to get sidetracked again...">"Huh!? Did something happen to Reimu!?"
>"Where would the mansion be, again?">"It's right there, can't you see it?" Sanae points to the Scarlet Devil Mansion, "But what happened to Reimu?"