>Then we may have to look into a 'proper' vessel, but dude at the alchemist store can tell us about that.
>"Well, I think that covers all the issues I had with those two items."
>Crack a wry grin. "I bet I sounded a bit like one of your first year students, but, I pride myself on being thorough."
>Did she make that list of ingredients yet?
>If not, remind her. Gently.
>Double check to make sure that it at least contains all the ingredients she mentioned to us. Those, at least, we would recognize.
>After doing that, stow the note away.
>"I do believe that covers all my questions about those two items. At least, everything I can think of at the moment."
>"Though... Now that I think about it. This gum of yours. Is it supposed to lose its flavor over time?"
>Chuckle. "Keep workin' on it, prof. And thanks again."
>Take out leave of her again, and depart the school grounds.
>Pause outside the gates though, and refresh our memory. Did professor mention the location of any nurseries to us, and if so, where? And did we pass any on the way to here?
>How far away was that alchemist shop we were at before?
>Didn't she say something about a test or something before she left the library?
>Give her a small grin. "It'll be nice to find a shower, all the same."
>Glance between the two. "You two, though, look like someone stole your cake out from under your noses."
>"Trained eye."
>"Are we talking 'head just above water' sunk, or 'start praying' sunk?"
>"Well, they say a little hope goes a long way."
>Ugh, that sounded corny.
>"I could use a little hope myself, if I'm gonna find any bittercress seeds here in town."
>"If it'll pay the bills."
>A touch more seriously, "It's for a brew a client of mine wants, back in Easthaven. But from what I've been told, coming up with the seeds is gonna be... Shall we say, tough."
>"As a matter of fact, I just finished talking to professor.... uh... Bosque...." Pause. "Bosqueverde." Yes, that was it. Cough.
>Do we know what a hoatzin is?
>"The whatzin?"
>Doesn't that mean herbivore?
>Which is the more commonly word used back home?
>"Come again?"
>"Oh! I guess that does sound weird. I thought they mostly ate bugs and stuff."
>"I wouldn't go as far as to say 'windbag', no. Most windbags I've known tend to enjoy listening to themselves talk, but that ain't the case for her."
>"'course, I'd be lying if I said I didn't find her a touch... ramble-y. But she knows her stuff, that's for sure."
>"I just wish she knew exactly where that garden she talked about was, that'd save me a lot of walking around town between greenhouses, asking questions."
>"Ah, well. Life of a Seeker ain't ever an easy one."
>"Supposedly, there's a garden somewhere southwest of here, where you can find just about every kind of flower known to man and youkai. Maintained by a powerful old youkai who doesn't take too kindly to strangers. Trouble is, our professor didn't know exactly where it was. Kinda got the impression no one does."
>Motion for specs to continue.
>Wow, do we look that intimidating? Cool. That could be useful.
>Well, for later, anyway, this one doesn't need to fear.
>"From whom? Or just one of those tales that goes around?"
>"That's all right." Smirk a wry smirk. A guide to the garden of forever blooms dropping into our lap on the way out of school? Yeah, right. Life ain't been that kind to us in a while. "If nothing else, another voice on the legend lends more credence to it."
>"Good to see you again."
>Nod to the shy one. "And it was nice meeting you, too."
Store them where?
And we can't act as though we're assuming Naz is leaving town. It's in character, and logical of her, to hit up the greenhouses and nurseries here in town first, or at least a couple of them. If for nothing else than to ask some questions.
And even assuming Yuuka is the one answer, we can't leave until we have a better idea where to find her. Otherwise we'd be wandering around the boondocks until our death clock runs out.
>During our walkings about here on campus, did we see a general campus guide, or any indication of a divination section of the place?
>Well, since out on-campus friends have left from uspity we didn't have this idea soonerlook around for one to probe for directions.
>Approach theeasiestmost approachable looking unbusy one.
>Politely attract his attention.
>"I was wondering where I might find the Divinations section of the school."
>Friendly nod. "Thanks."
>Thataway!
>Does the outside have a sign that denotes the section contents of the building?
>Then let us enter, and have a look round.
>Before entering, though, if our outfit has a hood, pull it up.
>Then let us ascend the handiest staircase.
>Have a listen at the door.. See if we can make out spell recitation, or anything.
>Test the door. If locked, knock. If unlocked, open.
>"Bwah?!"
>Turn around and get a look at this weirdo who tried spooking us. "Jeez, didn't anyone ever teach you to not sneak up on someone like that? 'bout gave me a heart attack.."
>Sigh. "Just don't do it again, okay? Anyhow, I take it you study around this department?"
>"Well, you know anyone who can divine for a certain location I'm lookin' for? Tryin' to find a place that nobody really knows how to get to."
>Peppy, isn't she.
>Yay Kyouko! *glomp*
>Nod to the box. "Need a hand with that?"
>"Well, specifically, I was hoping to find a diviner here who could find the specific location of a specific plant."
>"Failing that, the location of an ancient youkai with an affinity for flowers, but that's more of a plan D, at this point."
>Very peppy. Kinda like Lily from back west.
>"Specific as in name, description, environment, and a few medical applications. Several names, now that I think about it."
>Did we get a description of what the seed looks like, or just the flower?
>"I... suppose so, yes."
>We may as well accept the handshake, but be careful to not show off anything amiss, and be sure to keep an eye on the box incase she looks like she might drop it.
>"Name's Nazrin, I'm a Seeker from all the way out in Braston."
>"Likewise."
>Enthusiasm is all well and good, but, we really should be getting down to brass tacks.
>"So, know anyone around here that's good at scrying for plantlife?"
>Nod. "Let's go then. You gonna be okay with that box? Unless this room's where you were headin' with it."
>Her back is exposed! Tackle-hug!
>Let's follow her then!
>"Familiar voices?"
>"Which one's Morrigan?"
>Ponder.
>"Think we came at a bad time?"
>"Does she often meet with people like this?"
>Watch her retreat.
>Once she's gone, deadpan, "Friendly sort, isn't she."
>"I actually don't know. I've never had cause to outsource my divinations before."
>"I'm looking for a plant. A specific kind of flower, actually, one that doesn't grow here in town. I have an idea where it's supposed to grows but, before I head anywhere, I need to know if what I'm looking for is there."
>"I HAVE asked an herbalist. But the only place she thinks the flower would be, currently, is a great garden in a hidden location, somewhere southwest of here, west of Isir's Cross. And so I came here, hoping that there was a diviner here that could find that flower, or that garden."
>"That's what professor Bosqueverde told me."
>Oh, HERE we go.
>What kind of tone of voice is she using?
>Fold arms.
>"What do YOU think."
>"This job of mine has been a very stressful one, with more delays and obstacles than I might have thought possible, and every little result I get yields yet another complication, or more. So yeah, I'm a bit on edge."
>"And I wouldn't say 'favor', precisely. If need be, I'm prepared to pay."
>Do we know enough about scrying and divination to dispute that?
>"Is the problem simply in the distance involved, or the tools available as well?"
>"A target focus...."
>Think.
>"Something like, the specific plant I was looking for, but dried out? It's the flowers I need, having it dried isn't what the recipe requires. But if you had the dried variety, would locating the flowers be any easier?"
>Did the book, or the professor, mention any mystical properties about the flower whatsoever?
>Where was it supposed to grow naturally again? Specifically, how far away were the indicated regions?
>How far away were those areas, can we guess, from Val R?
>Assuming the flower, or seed, is at the closest location that isn't that garden, can we make it there, and back to the city, before we die?
>"I presume the presence of an ancient youkai who tends this garden wouldn't make it any easier to scry upon? As a target, I mean."
>Of course we don't.
>Inventory.Because why not.
>Shake head.
>"I didn't even know know she existed until today."
>"Thanks for the help, Kyouko."
>To the diviner, "Professor Bosqueverde mentioned her when she told me about the garden."
>Precisely what did the professor tell us about the location of the garden?
>Relay the pertinent information she gave to us to professor Morrigan here, and apend with "That's all she knew about. I had been hoping to find someone here in town that knew more about it, or where to find it. But since I was here on campus, I wanted to check this department first, to see if it could be located that way."
>"I don't suppose you'd happen to know anyone in town knowledgeable in local legends like this one?"
>How many moons does this world have?
>"Well, by 'legend' I mean 'story'. A garden almost no one can find, where just about every kind of flower you can think of blooms, in and out of season. And guarded by an ancient youkai, no less. That is quite the story."
>Snap fingers. "There's a thought. Are there any particular kinds of flowers that are easier to scry on over long distances?"
>Did bosqueverde mention if the youkai in question WAS a flower youkai, or merely a gardner?
>Are we aware of any flowers being youkai?
>Thoughtfully, "What if SHE were...? The ancient youkai, I mean, if she were a flower youkai?"
>"Or, something that lives with flowers, like a hummingbird or a bee youkai?"
>Sigh a little. "That's been the story of my life for the past week."
>Not out of ideas yet.
>"Is it possible to come up with a tool or device to cover that kind of distance? I use my divining rods to cover longer distances than I can naturally, but what about how you work your magic?"
>Raise an eyebrow.
>D'oh.
>"Something wrong?"
>Recall what Neu said about that overgrown crystal ball on the way into town.
>"I'm all ears."
>"However difficult she may be, I'm to the point where I'm willing to try just about anything. I'd ask to use that scrying ball in the Vigil statue, if I thought I'd get anywhere that way."
>"How can I find this woman?"
>About how long would it take us to get there from here?
>"I gather she wasn't the most popular professor here in her time?"
>"I understand. And thank you for telling me about her, as well. And if she asks, if you'd like, it wasn't you that told me about her."
>"But, let's back up a point or two, if I may. You said that scrying that far away is all but impossible, okay. But what about scrying here in town? Within the city limits, I mean. I get that this city is one of the biggest in the world, maybe THE biggest, but I still gotta ask."
>"The way things have gone so far, I'd be willing to make a wager on that."
>"But it's that one Bittercress flower I need, specifically, or its seeds. From what I was told, getting it to grow in this area is difficult at best, so..."
>"Come to think of, would you be able to scry for magics or energies designed to stimulate or fortify plant growth? The kind of spell to make something grow where it doesn't normally?"
>"So, that a different person from the woman before, or what?"
>"The woman with the cape you were having a... discussion with, before Kyouko led me here."
>"Was she the woman you told me about, the one with the tower outside of town?"
>"I've never heard of an 'Interdisciplinary Studies' before, but, if you've somewhere to be, I won't keep you."
>"Thank you, though, for your time. Just one last thing, though, if I have any further questions on the matter before the day's out, or I get some more information to work with, is there someone else in the department I could speak with, if you're busy?"
>Flatten ears reflexively.
>"Evidently, the garden I'm looking for is out of range."
>"Ask her what?"
>Great, now WE'RE echoing.
>Nod to them both. "Very good, then."
>Well, may as well ask, since she's here...
>To Kyouko, "I don't suppose you know anything about a hidden garden out west of Isir's Cross yourself, do you?"
>"Guess not, for now. Thanks again, both of you."
>Exeunt the building.
>Assess hunger status.
>First things first. We could use a look at a map.
>Head back to the library.
>Is it the same desk jockey as before?
>Approach.
>"Do you keep current maps on hand here?"
>"Two things, actually. A map of the city; I need to plan out a time-efficient route."
>"And a map of the region west of Isir's Cross."
>"Excellent."
>Take leave of the nice lady and sally forth in the indicated directions.
>Nod. "Yeah, would you mind pointing me to a current map of the city, and a map of the region west of Isir's Cross, if you could?"
>Sniff the air to sample the age of the documents contained herein.
>"S'right. Lookin' for a rumored garden out in those parts."
>Maybe we should head over with her?
>"And to get a better sense of how the city's laid out. First time here. Big city."
>"Ayup. That's where I'm from, yeah. But anyhow, this garden's supposedly got every sort of flower you could think of, and maybe a few you couldn't, and they're all in bloom year-round. Even the ones that don't bloom for a while, like ones that only bloom once every so many years. It's that latter sort of flower I'm lookin' to find."
>"Only trick is, it's supposed to be hidden. But I'm thinking I might be able to pick up a clue from a map. Or at least narrow it down a bit."
>Let's see about memorizing as much of the map as we can. Bein' a seeker means we gotta be handy with these things after all.
>Take note of gardens, greenhouses and nurseries.
>Does this map extend beyond the city, indicating that tower professor Morrigan noted?
>If it does not, inquire about a map containing that data.
>Scan the Cross map for scenery that doesn't belong. For instance, areas of green among wild or wasteland, a large clearing in a forest. And waterfalls, you could hide a garden behind a waterfall.
>Follow along the rivers, and see if there is anything of note along them. In theory, a garden would want water and good soil...
>How close do they come to Isir's Cross?
>Do there appear to be any sign of old or current trails or paths on the Cross region map, something to indicate ground travel routes?
>Well, there's more than one resource in this room...
>"I wonder, have you had folks in here before looking for this garden out in this area?"
>Have we ever had cause to try and locate something like this with a map's help before? And if so, what if any tricks did we use?
>If this youkai is the tender of this garden, then presumably she would have some means of providing irrigation, or water in some form, to her plants. If she had, for instance, a metallicly-constructed aqueduct, or even just a metal watering can, would we be able to detect those, if they were in an area where we wouldn't expect a lot of metal to be?
>Based on what we can see on this map, how may locations can we discern would be secluded, but not totally inaccessible, and would have at least some access to one of the fresh water sources we can see?
>"Do you happen to recall who you heard talking about it?"
>Indicate the map of the Cross region. "Is this the most detailed map you have of this area?"
>Ponder, then shake head.
>"If this youkai and her garden's as out of the way as I think, that might not do me much good."
>Another moment.
>"On the other hand, it might help me plot out a starting point to set out from once I get there. So yeah, if you wouldn't mind."
>Do we know how well staffed the checkpoint at Isir's is?
>Nod in approval, details are good.
>With our eyes on the fairy village, "Didn't know that was there. Any idea how big that fairy village is?"
>"Green hair, surprisingly sharp and competent as far as Fairies go?"
>Chuckle a bit. "Saved me from a literally sticky situation earlier today she did. Some other fairy thought she was a mage, and ended up goofing around with a weird spell that I ended up the victim of. Foam everywhere. She was the one who stopped the dang thing from still going, my ears are still gummed up a bit thanks to it."
>Sigh. "Least it's better than my luck was on the way here to Val R., eh?"
>Was she back out there in the lobby when we came in this time?
>"I'll spare you the ugly details. We'd both be here a while. But the short answer? Very."
>"Would you happen to know where that fairy went when she left?"
>"I'll check at the front desk, then, once I'm all finished here. That helpful little fairy might just have an answer I've been looking for for a while."
>Return eyes to the more detailed map, with the fairy village. About how far does it look between the checkpoint and the village, and how rough does the going in between look?
>About how long would it take us to walk to the village from Isir's?
>Does the map give any indication of trails or canyons through the hills, or a river that flows that way that would offer easier travel?
>Look for the headquarters and/or territories of the three most influential Houses in the city.
>"I think I've got what I need. For now, anyway."
>"Thanks for the help."
>Exit map room, return to front desk.
>Inquire of desk jockey. "That tall fairy that was here before, with the green hair. Did you happen to catch where she was going when she left?"
>"That's all right, thanks."
>Depart the library.
>Time to conduct an experiment.
>Stand aside from the library doors, produce dousing rods, and scan the campus grounds for fairies.
>Does fire feel hot?
>That's her with the hair, ain't it.
>Flag her down. Quickly.
>Chuckle. "Better than earlier at least. I hear you live around that fairy village out near Isir's Cross, so I figured you might be able to help a bit more. See, there's supposed to be this supposedly mythical garden out past that neck of the woods, guarded by some kinda ancient youkai. from what i hear, it has all kinds of flowers in bloom there all year round, even ones that only bloom once every so many years."
>Raise an eyebrow. "So it's not just a legend, huh? See, I have to find this flower that blooms every seven years, but it's not due up for quite a while, and I kinda need it soon for the cure to a disease that's been causing a lot of trouble back home."
>Sigh. "Sorry if this puts you off or anything though."
>"You haven't met her, have you?"
>"I gather most of them ain't exactly bedtime stories."
>"So I guess you must think I've gone a bit loose in the head if I say I need to find her and ask her help."
>"I'll worry about that when I get there. It's the 'getting there' part that has me a bit stumped at the moment."
>Nod seriously.
>"I don't think I have any choice."
>"I have to find a flower that won't be found anywhere else for another three years. If I had some Bittercress seeds, that would be okay, too. But I don't. "
>"I think so, anyway. I'd sooner have the flower itself, but if I have to, I think I can make do with the seeds."
>"I intend to try. But from what I've gathered, my chances aren't good."
>Rub the bridge of our nose and sigh a little. "Story of my life, really."
>"That's why I think I need to meet this Yuuka youkai. Either with the seeds or the flowers, she may well be the only person on this continent that can give me what I need, in this time I have to get it."
>"I think it's more a matter of the time of year. I think, I ain't an expert on plants. I do plan to scour greenhouses and such around town, but if I come up dry, well..."
What sort of 'format changes'?
>Obtain cure>Using your keen murine wits, you perform a thorough investigation of Val Razua and obtain all the information needed to assemble and administer a cure. Though it takes many days of travel and gathering, you finally succeed in your endeavour and the cure you have long-awaited rests placidly within the vial in your hands. Congratulations!
Let me just see if I read you right there, from that dissertation. Ideally, you'd like to make things a bit more 'streamlined', without sacrificing the experience in general. Still give us the freedom to stumble around, but give us a tool or two help point us in the right direction?
I admit, when I first thought 'a change in format' I wondered, 'Does that mean a change from the Z-adventure format?'
DID that thought cross your mind, by any chance?
HEY LOOK A REVIVED THREAD!It's in hiatus right now I think.
>Remind the audience what has happened so far
It's in hiatus right now I think.Ze to you, too, ze.
>Seeker's Insight: How could we slip into the basement of the library undetected?
>Seeker's Insight: How can we bypass this creature's carapace?
>Seeker's Insight: How can we reach the idol before Chen?
>Seeker's Insight: How can I cure myself?is unlikely to produce a suggestion that speaks directly towards Nazrin's current issue with finding the garden, as this is just one small logistical facet of a much wider problem. It might, however, suggest in general some entirely alternate avenues you have not explored.
>Seeker's Insight: Where is the garden?
>Seeker's Insight: What is the purpose of the relic Aya stole?
>Seeker's Insight: How is Yamame adjusting to Easthaven?I will, however, allow a couple 'penalty-free' attempts in the early stages, as you get used to what is and isn't a valid question. Rarely, if a particular question might result in a hint too critical to the flow of the story to outright reveal, I will elect not to provide an answer to it. This will not count as spending a point.
>Find a grocery store and purchase provisions for the roadcould result in a summary wherein Nazrin finds a grocery store and purchases provisions for the road. Since nothing about the expedition is interesting, or presents any challenges or notable dialogue opportunities for the players, or reveals any plot-relevant information, you aren't really missing anything by not being there every step of the way.
>Find a grocery store
>Enter the shop!
>Look around at the produce
>Find a good cabbage
>?Excuse me, miss? How much for this cabbage??
>Produce 2 guilders and give them to the clerk
>?Thank you!?
>Take the bag containing the cabbage and leave the storethe entire affair is made considerably longer; I can only have Nazrin do as much as you have told her to do. If all you have told her to do is ask one question about a cabbage, all she is going to do is ask one question about a cabbage.
>Find the cheapest non-sketchy inn available and book lodging there
>Go to the grocery store and purchase enough food for Christmas dinner. Make sure to get a large fresh cabbage!
>Remind the audience what has happened so far
>"I intend to. Believe me, I'm in no hurry to face another dangerous youkai on her home turf, not after the last time I tried. But like I said, if I come up dry here, then that leaves me with pretty much the one option. So, even if you don't know exactly where this garden is, then giving me an idea would be one more idea than I've got."
>"I realize that she may be dangerous, but trust me when I say, it's important that I find this plant."
>Assuming that a fairy has left some sort of magical imprint or something akin to that on a tree or a rock, would we be able to sense that residue?
>Wingprints, maybe? No, let's be serious here.
>"Landmarks are always a good thing." Pause a moment. "Unless this is a personal thing?"
>Do something Silly, this is not a troll. OKAY!? I GENUINELY WANT SILLIES!
>"Well, you mentioned trees and rocks your sisters named. I don't know an awful lot about fairys, so I didn't know if that sort of thing was important to fey-folk, or something."
>Why is she so nervous talking about this sort of thing.
>Is she looking towards anything in particular?
>We vaguely remember doing that sort of thing too when we were just starting as a Youkai too didn't we?
>So we know how it is then, eh? Maybe she's a shockingly mature Fairy. it would explain why she's more competent than the usual strain.
>Smile a bit. "Embarrassed, huh? I know how that is."
>We've seen fairies be afraid or shocked before, but how to those events stack up to Dai's fear of Yuuka? It seems different than normal fairy fear.
>Instead, say, "We were all young once." while giving her a little smile.
>Advanced fairy or not, we're obviously treading on something important to the girl.
>We're good at weaseling out a secret here and there. How would we normally go about getting a person like this to give up their secrets, without making her shut down in embarassment?
>Yeah, well, it's worked for us so far. We get by.
>Still, we don't really need to know what these objects meant to her to find them. Just something distinctive. We can do the rest ourselves. But this is one weird fairy.
>... Dammit, stop thinking about Honey. We can miss- See her again later, after we're fixed.
>"Well, setting that to the one side for a moment, these 'landmarks' of yours are distinctive, in some way? Like, a certain color of moss on one side, a diamond shaped hole in the top? That sort of thing?"
>"Not precisely, but with enough info, I should be able to Dowse for 'em. It's what I can do after all."
>Before we say that, CAN we actually dowse for those sort of things?
Let me give you some advice. If you want to add a joke to a game, then do so in a slashed out command.Ah, thanks.>Like this.
That way, it takes the form of a joke, instead of spam. Being part of the peanut gallery is fine, you just need to know how to do it, and how often.
>Stand on head.
>"Well, if any of the rocks look odd, they might have a different mineral composition from a normal one. I happen to know a fair bit about that sort of thing due to it being what I can find with my ability the easiest."
>Can we reliably detect variable mineral formations in rocks, assuming a lack of highly precious and/or magical materials?
>If so, recount the pertinant information of our range at said to Daiyousei.
>"What do you mean? I thought these marks of yours could be found on the way there? A trail, sort of."
>"You mean one of the fairys from the village?"
>Do fairy villages traditionally have names? If so, ask Dai what this one is called.
>A long way from home, even for a fairy, who flies. Through rough, unfamiliar terrain. Oy......
>Hang on a tick. 'Everyone'? Since when do NORMAL fairies stay away from something scary for a long period of time? As a race, they're famed for never learning a lesson. Have we ever known one that did?
>If not, say, "'Everyone stays away'? Just what does this Yuka DO to visitors?"
>"Oh, I believe you. You're not quite like any fairy I've ever met before. I got no issue taking your warning's seriously."
>Take a long breath. "Doesn't change what I think I have to do, but, I'll be warned for when I get there."
>"Yeah, well, first I gotta find the damn place, or it won't be an issue at all. Appreciate the sentiment, though."
>"You mentioned a couple of fairies in your village had been there before. You think they'd still remember where it was, or at least a decent idea?"
>Just as a refresher, getting to the village itself shouldn't be a big problem, from what we saw on the map, right?
>During our time here, did we pass by any stores or buildings that would indicate the services of a ranger, or tracker, for hire? Someone who would be familiar with the area in question, and would be a little more reliable than a fairy?
>Reminder. Val Razua doesn't have a Seeker's guildhall, correct?
>But that chapter wouldn't be the kind of social/gather place for Seekers that it is in Braston, would it?
>Might behoove us to ask there if anyone's been out there, just in case.
>Do we know where it is?
>Based on what information we've been able to gather about Yuuka and her garden, do we feel we could find it ourself on our own? And if not, what approach would seem to be the most efficient method of finding it?
>"Part of the way might be good enough, if there's something distinctive I can use as a landmark, or landmarks, the rest of the way. Do you think they might know of anything like that? Or you, for that matter?"
>"Actually, have you heard of anyone here in town having been there before?"
>"Yeah, I kinda figured that. Seems to be one of those 'old legends', at best, this garden, at least around here."
>Wait a second here. If she know about that book with the blight information....
>Point our tail towards the library. "Think that Shuuei person might know if it was mentioned in a book in the library?"
>"Before it was there? Huh. I got the impression that it was one of those things that had been there for generations, type of things."
>"I'd believe that." Rotate neck. "A Seeker having to find something obscure and hidden for decades or centuries is just part of the territory."
>A fairy looking genuinely sympathetic, or trying her damdest. Suppress a grin. Now we've seen it all.
>Smile a somewhat weary smile. "Let's just say that I'm due for an easy one. I'm hoping one comes up once I get back home, when this job is over."
>"Well, there is still one thing I think you can tell me definitively. How well do the fairies in the village take to strangers? The last time I stumbled across a fairy village, I wasn't exactly welcomed with open arms."
>How thief-proof is our pack and/or pockets?
>Have we ever been pickpocketed? And if so, how badly did we shank the fool who did it?
>Update quest log: Find that theif and stab her in the eye. Twice.
>"Thanks for the warning. But so long as there isn't another resident fairy who think herself a hero with a sword, I should be okay."
>Oh, we'll find a way.
>"Let's just say that there's a few fairies I've run across that are prone to flights of fancy in that vein."
>"I met an ice fairy with a big attitude back home. It's a long story." Pause then grin wryly. "Still don't know where she got that sword."
>Wave our hand. "Nah, everything worked out pretty well. Even gave that fairy what she was looking for, too." Pause. "Well, more or less."
>"So, does Isir's Cross know about your village?"
>"Ever been there? What's it like?"
>"That's good. Do they ever sent people out into the wilderness?"
>"Is it dangerous out there? Except for Yuka, anyways."
>Nod. "I didn't think so, since you guys live out there. But no point in assuming you just didn't know how to keep safe. Oh, are there any people you know about who live outside of town? Lone farmer or hunter people?"
>"Sounds like a pretty peaceful region, all things considered."
>"I know it's a bit short notice, but if you wanted to, you could come with me."
>"You've been a big help, I'll let you get back to what you were doing."
>After disentangling with Dai, montage up some plant places; ask for directions when needed. Make inquiries about bittercress, then about the guardian legend and Yuka. Try to ignore howling laughter and derision after that, and inquire about peoples who would know the Isir's Cross region with any degree of worth.
>And if someone does give us just a bit too much shit...well, we'll burn that bridge if it comes up.
>Do they have any bittercress seeds, or are these weedlings all they have, presently?
>Minoriko said that the dirt we had would grow any seed in a big hurry, right?
>How much dirt do we have? Specifically, how many plants could grow in it?
>Did the book we found mention how many flowers we needed?
>And Minoriko said that all we had to do was plant the seed in the soil and it would take care of itself?
>Did she mention how long it would take?
>Steel yourself, Nazrin. Don't show anything here.
>Inquire into the price of the seeds and quantity available for purchase.
>Deal!
>Wait, we'd need a flower pot or something to grow this stuff, wouldn't we?
>Inquire into the price of an appropriately sized for our purposes pot.
>Status on supplies and gear for travelling purposes.
>Available funds.
>Acquire one packet of seeds and one small terracotta pot.
>Take a moment to stare at the seeds. Can this really be the last ingredient? We're a Seeker, nothing comes easy for a Seeker. Certainly not us, not this past week. Could this really be the answer we need, no traipsing across the hinterlands to find a semi-mystical garden with a crazy dangerous hermit youkai gardener, no voyage into the north to find seeds among their normal sprouting area?
>Never mind. If it is, then it is. No sense getting emotional about it, one way or the other.
>That alchemist shop we visited before, did we note its hours of operation?
>Recall what the instructions on the potting soil were.
>Let's find someplace out of the way, where people won't bother us with staring, then introduce the pot, soil, and seeds to each other. Keep in mind what we were told about proper planting of the seeds.
>Add water.
>Grin slightly, and get a closer look. Ol' Mino's got a knack for this stuff alright.
>Let's splash our face with a bit of our water, make sure we aren't dreaming.
>"Man, Honey'd freak out seein' this." Hell, Marisa would too, wouldn't she?
>In retrospect, perhaps we should have done this after we found a place to lodge for the night, so we wouldn't have to lug these flowers around from shop to shop.
>Do we know enough about flowers and their growth to know if moving them would disrupt their growing pattern?
>Ah, never mind. We'd have to field too many annoying questions about carrying around rapidly growing flowers. Let's wait till they're done, then we'll move.
>At this rate, could they possibly end up blooming too?!
>Nah, that'd be TOO lucky. We aren't a rabbit after all.
>Glance around for signs of an eatery in the vicinity.
>A fruit cart or something of the like would also suffice.
>About how long do we think it'll take for the flowers to bloom at the rate they're going?
>But those weren't flowered, so, let's assume two hours to bloom....
>What time is it now?
>Well, we've been hungry before. No need to dive into our supplies.
>On the other hand, if this is the magic capital of the world, a rapidly growing flower probably wouldn't seem THAT out of place, would it? And even if we find an alchemist shop that's still open, we'd need the flowers formed anyway. That'll afford us a chance to find a bite to eat first.
>Let us, carefully, take up the flowers, and head in the direction of the local Seeker's guildhall, and find a place to grab a bite along the way.
>Five cheeses eh? let's see if we can't ID them, eh? We are a bit of an expert on cheeses after all.
>Upscale to the point that it frowns upon people carrying plants in?
>If it is, screw em. We're hungry, and a sandwich is not only effective, but oft times portable, if need be. Let us investigate.
>Parouse the prices listed, let's see what they have that's on the cheaper end of the scale.
>How hungry are we?
>Let's select something nice in the 11 bit range. And top it off with grapefruit juice.
>"Gonna have to remember this cheese. A real sinus-cleaner that one." Bet it'd make for a good meltin' cheese.
>Wonder how much it'd cost to get a wheel of the stuff back home after all this is done?
>And don't forget the plant!
>Sated will do for now. One doesn't want to splurge too much. It has its benefits, but splurging is splurging.
>Let us depart this place, satisfied by our first meal in Val R, and proceed on towards the guild hall. And keep an eye out for alchemists shops or other points of interest. And an ear open for any footpads or fairies that might abscond with our flower.
>Do our badges denote rank/seniority within the guild?
>Look around for a patch of ground that might be used to transplant our... plants. If there are any to be found.
>Reminder, how many seeds did we plant, and how much dirt do we have left over?
>Give a nod in greeting to our sister-seeker.
>"Likewise. Well, time to get to the next part of the job.."
>Well, on to the hall!
>Memory refresher. What is the guild's policy on offering lodging to Seeker's based in other cities? Is there a rate, or does every guildhall have an open door policy to every Seeker?
>Given that this is Val R, 'modest' could be very relative. But we shall see. Mouse's got to lay her head somewhere, and this place would seem at least relatively secure. Better place than most to watch plants grow.
>Approach our desk jockey.
>"I just made landfall today from Braston. Name's Nazrin."
>Today? We packed a lot into this one. Feels like it's been months, almost.
>"I need a place to bivouac for a day or two. Figured here'd be a better place than an inn or hotel that'd charge me half my tail to get in, and have a bit better security to it."
>Is that disproportionate for this sort of thing?
>Twitch.
>"I'm a bit new here in town, how's that stack up against some other joints?"
>Sure wouldn't be convenient for new Seekers.... We're doing rather well for ourselves, all things considered, and that's still tying up almost half our money in one place, albeit with 30% or so of it to be returned, but it's still committed.
>From our experience, is the rate open to haggling?
>"Yeah, I know."
>Finger wallet.
>"Payment up front?"
>"Then I guess I'd better find out how much the rest of my business here in town'll cost me first."
>"Where does a Seeker go to get an alchemy potion brewed around here?"
>"It's in the nature of a healing potion."
>Is that on our map, and/or have we passed by the place/area on your way around town so far?
>Shake our head. "Haven't been around that way yet."
>"And they do good work? It's for a client, so I'd rather not skimp on the quality."
>"Close enough to be worth checking out, at any rate."
>Hmmm. Well, as long as we're here...
>"Well, that taken care of. You wouldn't happen to know a place around here to trade in old airship parts, would you?"
>Perk ears and listen for something behind us.
>Hm. Kudos on this one sneaking up behind us.
>Let's see who it is.
>Great. Another rabbit. We'll see how much a pirate THIS one is.
>"An old flow intake regulator. That's seen better days, I might add."
>"I believe the term was 'rusted to crap'."
>"Simple. Case might be rusted to uselessness, but the filter isn't. I figure the ohrihalcum's gotta be worth a bit to someone."
>Which means that it might be worth a bit, and she wants it from us cheap. Not likely.
>"You've handled this kind of thing before."
>"And what does a look at it entail?"
>Back home, was it common for one Seeker to cheat another?
>"Well, as long as you're looking with your eyes and not your fingers..."
>Hold it up for her to see.
>"Since you have such a good name, I suppose I could."
>Let her hold it.
>"What all's wrong with it?"
>Compare what she says to what Ishi told us about it, and our own observations.
>Give the appearance of pondering her offer for just a moment.
>"That's a convenient offer. But I don't need to unload it all that quick. Not like it takes up all that much space, after all."
>"On the other hand, that doesn't mean it's doing me much good, either...." Ponder again. "How does 40 sound, just so I can cover a room here while I'm in town."
>"Ohrihalcum's not an easy thing to come by, miss...?"
>Shake the bunny wabbit's hand. "Nazrin."
>"Oh, I don't know. Stuff that's in there's gotta be worth at least 65 or 70 in salvage, just by sheer quantity. So I could come down to.... 32?"
>"Oh, I know the part itself is useless, no question on that one. Engineer on my ship even told me so, in no uncertain terms. But she also ballparked how much ohrihalcum goes into the filter on this piece of junk, and I know how much that much metal can go for on average."
>"Now mind you, I'm no gearhead myself, so I don't know what, exactly is entailed in salvaging the filter, recovering the metal... That, I admit, is out of my area of expertise."
>No rabbit's gonna pull one over on us. But we can tell if she's trying. Right?
>Rassafrassin' rabbits....
>Is there a half-guilder?
>"24 and a half, then?"
>Extend our hand again. "You hold your ground well on the haggling battlefield."
>Well.... 4 and a half is more than she offered, so, a minor victory is better than none.
>"Deal. It isn't a room, but it's more than I had."
>"Sound philosophy, that."
>Await her payment expectantly.
>Thought she still had it.
>Regardless, fork over the goods.
>Wonder if she'd know any coin collectors? Nah, we'll handle that ourselves, save us the finder's fee.
>Wonder also if either of these two have worked for the Scarlets before, they're a big name in town. No, never mind, we should head to that herbalists' place.
>Oh wait, we've got some time to kill until our plant finishes growing, so, why not get a bit more info on a local powerhouse?
>"Likewise."
>"Speaking of business, have either of you ever worked for the Scarlets? I hear they're one of the bigwig groups here in the city."
>"Nah, that gizmo was a bonus after infiltrating a fairy fortress. By specialty, I'm a douser."
>Have we actually done that before?
>"That's part of my schtick, yeah. But I can find more than just precious metals and gems or out-of-place iron. I can sense magic, too, if it's strong enough."
>Point to the regulator. "Found that, for one, my first day on the job. And then of course there was this." Pat Kumokirimaru. "Found this under a hill near Easthaven, after falling off a bridge."
>"That's what the folks at the academy told me, when I had it checked out earlier on. Trouble is, it's one of those forgotten tongues. They knew enough to tell me what language it was, but not what it says."
>Snort out a chuckle. "For all I know, it's could be anything from the secret to world peace to someone's recipe for biscuits."
>Chuckle a humorless chuckle. "That'd be nice."
>Rest our hand upon the hilt. "Someone I met on my way into the city told me the sword had some kind of faith, or religious power, about it, something they couldn't identify." Pause. "I don't suppose you have a buddy that specializes in that sort of thing?"
>Shrug. "Eh, worth a shot askin'."
>"Wouldn't happen to know anyone who knows someone who might, would ya?"
>Nod. "Somethin' to go on at least. They'll have to know to not try and jack this little treasure from me though, I worked my tail to the bone and then some on the job that got me this little gem, I ain't about to part with it anytime soon."
>Did we pass by any shinto-type places on our way here?
>If not, ask Bugs Bunny here about the closest one.
>About how long would it take us to get back there?
>We still have some time to kill.
>"May as well do that now, then, while it's on my mind." Give the rabbit a once over. "'less you got another deal to float my way first?"
>Salesmen.
>Wryly, "You've said that a time or two before, haven't you."
>Did the Maiden's crew happen to mention if their repairs would be hard to complete once they made landfall?
>Did we get the impression that she had a handle on things in terms of resupply and whatnot, or did it seem like she was up a creak with a cracked paddle?
>"Call it a testament to experience, mark in your favor, I would say."
>Or overconfidence, but she got that part away from us, so, give the devil her due.
>"But I'm afraid the only thing I'm riding is my own two feet, at least until my wallet gets a lot thicker than it is now. But if I happen to stumble across some more parts while I'm in town, I've got one more place to take them now than I did before I started."
>Examine card. And accept.
>Well that's that somewhat unexpected bit of business taken care of. Profit's profit, even if you can't tell if the other guy got one over on you or not
>Off to the church. See if someone there can tell us about our blade.
>Do we know of any protocols forbidding the entrance to temples while armed?
>Maybe we should look into taking a job or two for a temple here and there, once we're fixed. A bit of good karma to help deal with the next poisonous youkai we end up locking horns with.
>But first things first. Let's see what kind of services are offered here, see if we can get some information. Approach the sweeping miko.
>Wonder if she'll get spooked then, since the girl's clearly distracted.
>"Yo."
>Let's make an expression that's a mixture of surprise and happiness. "Kyouko? That you? Man, this is a surprise!"
>My, but she's perky. And kinda cute, too.
>Smile. Whoa, that's infectious. "It's Nazrin."
>"So you... serve here? Is that the right term for a shrine maiden?"
>What's the story behind her back in the academy anyways? Did she have to quit for one reason or another?
>Grin slightly. "Been a while, eh?"
>Chuckle.
>"Ain't you a helpful sort. So how long you been here?"
>Ah, she was a part-timer there then.
>Chuckle. "I figured as much. Always the sort to lend a hand where it's needed."
>Fistpalm. "Ah, mind pointin' me to the most knowledgeable person that's here right now? I got something that needs looking at, and only someone who knows faith and the like will have the answers."
>"And the outfit looks good on you, too."
>"So where can I find this Sumiko in there?"
>Man, is there anything that can get this kid down? Probably not.
>Let's follow along then!
>"So where else do you pitch in around town?"
>Nod is response.
>Sweep area with extrasensory perception.
>Visualize Kyouko teaching a chorus.>Avoid giant bouncing balls.
>"I have an item in my possession that I was told has some form of faith within it, or blessing upon it. I was hoping to learn more about the nature of that power."
>Point to our sword with our tail. "If you wouldn't mind."
>"It's a very old sword. I found near an old temple, in the Outer Freelands. Supposedly there's some kind of faith-related power, or spell, in it, and that is by no means my area of expertise. I was hoping to find out more about that power- who put it there, when it was put there, how long the power might last."
>Recall our experience with Karu. How much distance did we have between us and her when she had our sword? And did we experience any notable negative effects of separation from that sword?
>Still not an easy thing to swallow, letting someone else hold the sword after everything that's happened.
>On the other hand, if we let a pirate handle it, letting a shrine maiden handle it seems a fair bit easier to swallow.
>Produce the blade and present it to her.
>"I never got a chance to explore it. I was ambushed by an overly aggressive spider youkai before I got a chance. But it was underground, north of the village of Easthaven, if that helps. On Estval Isle."
>Did we get a sense that the temple, from what we saw of it, had always been down there? Like it had been build there? Or that it had submerged over the years?
>"The temple could have sunk, or have been moved at some point, I can't be sure. I don't have an idea how long it was down there, either. I am sure that the earth spider that ambushed me hated that sword. More than I've ever seen anyone hate anything before."
>"Come to think of it, have you ever heard of a race of spider youkai before?"
>"I meant a full-blown race, like the kappa or oni or tengu."
>"And I would guess abandoned. I think the only humanoid that had been down there for decades, maybe centuries, was that youkai, before I ended up down there. As for ruined, I don't know. I only got a good look at the torii, and they seemed reasonably intact."
>Let out a long breath. Remembering the hate in her eyes still makes our blood run cold.
>"I can only tell you my impressions, and what she told me. She wasn't very rational, and I was hurt. We both were, pretty badly."
>"I gathered from her that her people used to be a populous race in the area, that they used to live on the surface world as well as underground. But something happened, something bad. I think there was a war between the surface dwellers and her people." Point at Kumokirimaru. "She said that sword was used to massacre her people. Personally I doubt one sword could do all that, but the way she hated it, I don't doubt it was used to fight spiders and/or spider youkai."
>"And if the faith in that blade really is some sort of charm, or ward, against spider-type youkai, then knowing more about it might help me learn more about what happened to her people."
>"Well, it's good for me. I'm not in the business of killing people, and I'd hate to be carrying around something that was designed to exterminate a race."
>Never mind the fact that it saved our lives, if this blade had been designed with genocide in mind, that'd change things a bit.
>"So what would be involved in figuring out the nature of that sword's faith?" Pause. "Is 'faith' even the right word? I've never dealt with a weapon like this before."
>"Well, it's good for me. I'm not in the business of killing people, and I'd hate to be carrying around something that was designed to exterminate a race."
>Never mind the fact that it saved our lives, if this blade had been designed with genocide in mind, that'd change things a bit.
>"So what would be involved in figuring out the nature of that sword's faith?" Pause. "Is 'faith' even the right word? I've never dealt with a weapon like this before."
>About how long do we think it will take for the bittercress flower to bloom, considering its rate of growth? Assuming it DOES flower.
>"Exactly what does that entail? If I may ask."
>"I can accept that. But I do need to know how long it will take, if you can tell me. I have to see an alchemist in a couple hours time, for a job."
>We still feel no adverse effects from it being- Oh wait, we were further away when that pirate had it, we wouldn't feel anything bad now anyway. And if we do start to feel bad as she gets furthur away from us, we can either catch her or send Kyouko.
>"Excellent."
>"Well, I did figure out that it's name is Kumokirimaru. Real mouthful of a name if you ask me."
>"I've been trying to learn more about that sword since I found it. Haven't had a lot of luck, I'm sorry to say." Point to the writing. "I know that the language that inscription is written in is Freelands Archaic, but I haven't found anyone who could translate it yet."
>Did we learn when that language was in use? If so, inform her of that, too.
>What else might be considered pertinant information? Aside from the blight aspect, we'd rather not announce that if we can help it.
>... Oh, bollux, she might learn that anyway? Oh, well, no way to know now.
>"I'm afraid that's about the long and short of what I know, apart from the fact that it apparently held up amazingly well for something as old as it has to be to have that writing on it. Though that might be due to the power in it, I don't know."
>Like fun we're leaving that sword behind. Even if we COULD, we wouldn't. Not to mention that we don't know for sure if we can or not yet.
>Let's just wait until she's out of view, and see what, if anything, happens to us.
>And while we're at it, is it time for our medicine yet?
>Wince. Perky, but loud, this one.
>Cute, though.
>And since we have some time to kill, there's worse company to have until our sword comes back.
>"In my experience, Kyouko, nothing's ever boring when you wear this badge." Indicate badge. "Mind you, they don't always involve half-crazed feral youkai, but every job I've had so far hasn't gone as I'd expected."
>"Well, a little predictability might be all right, after the past week I've had. On the other hand, if things had been predictable, I'd never have found this sword, never have met Honey, never...."
>Glance around for a place to sit, and invite Kyouko to join us.
>If none present themselves, "Mind if we sit down? I've been on my feet a while."
>Blink, then shrug and follow suit.
>"You've done that a time or two before, haven't you."
>"So I gather."
>Adjust buttocks to allow as much comfort as a mouse can manage.
>"Now... Where was I?"
>"Ah yes. Little Honey. Honeysuckle, actually."
>We have some time. Let us relate to her the tale of the job that led to our meeting with Honey and Cirno.
>And try not to show that we miss Honey.
>So less than two hours, but longer than a relatively good length tale of a job with a twist or two. Must be some chat Sumiko's having with the sword. Assuming she's getting anywhere.
>Out of curiousity, can we sense Kumokirimaru's presence from here?
>"Oh yeah, this sort of thing usually take this long? I would've figured she'd gotten somewhere and told us by now."
>How much time do we have anyhow?
>"Hm, maybe she's having a hard time waking up the old girl?"
>Well, we can jump that hurdle when we come to it.
>"You'd probably have to be a full, official member of the temple staff to know that stuff. You're just a part-timer right now, aren't you Kyouko?"
>"Damn shame too, it's a pretty nice place really."
>This one was the closest one to where we were at the time, right?
>"I met an onmyouji a few days ago who told me that a Shintoist might be able to tell me more about this sword than she could. I was in the vicinity, so I figured it was as good a time as any to see if she was telling the truth about that."
>From our own limited experience in the field, is it uncommon to find youkai around temples at all? Let alone working at one.
>Nod. "I could tell. The serious part, I mean."
>"What about you, Kyouko, what brought you to this place?"
>Chuckle. "Good reason, that."
>"But don't you ever find it... weird here, sometimes? Uncomfortable? I mean, you're a youkai, too. There's a reason you don't find too many of us in places like this. At least in my experience."
>"Well, the spiritual powers of places like this. The mystic forces that run through here. The divine energy, that sort of thing."
>"I... take it you haven't felt anything like that?"
>She doesn't frown for very long, does she.
>Is it our imagination, or does she have a tendancy to repeat words or phrases other people day?
>Hmm. From what we know of shinto-styled magics, would we be able to detect Sumiko's... whatever it is she's doing if we were to employ our dousing rods?
>Not that we would, as Kyouko probably wouldn't approve of 'spying' on the older woman. Assuming she IS older than Kyouko, but it's easy to assume.
>Chuckle.
>"Fancy name for a sword, isn't it."
>Laugh. "I can safely say, I've never seen anyone get excited over the name of a sword because it's fun to say."
>"Hardly." Give the girl a smile. "Just one more nice thing I've found since I left Braston."
>Curious. One would think she doesn't get told that often.
>Affirm her questions with a nod.
>"Try 'person'. Bet it sounds better."
>Twitch.
>Do we usually flush or anything when people compliment us?
>No, we're Nazrin, our poker face is excellent.
>"Well, thanks."
>"It's part of a job I came here to finish. There's a woman back in Easthaven who'd love to get her hands on a particular potion, and this plant is one of the ingredients."
>Frown slightly. "Assuming it flowers inside the next day or two. Working on a time limit on this job."
>She doesn't need to know just how bad a time limit we have, so shrug slightly. "Some jobs are like that. Have to get something somewhere in a certain period of time. That job I told you about before was like that, too. I knew I only had a certain amount of time to recover that fruit before it spoiled, assuming it hadn't been eaten already. Which it hadn't. Partly."
>All-ly, that's a new one.
>"Considering the time it took to get to the city.... Two weeks, give or take a day or two."
>"Assuming I don't get delayed again leaving this city. There was a bit of trouble getting out of Braston."
>Point towards the rear end of the chamber.
>"It's a long story. I'd be happy to tell you, but I think Sumiko's coming back."
>Reclaim the blade. Whether we felt out of sorts or no due to its absence, it's still good to have it back.
>Before we ask any questions, steal a glance at Kyouko, then ask, "Anything... sensitive?"
>"Well, I don't know what the sword had to say yet. I have been carrying it around for the past week or so, it might have something private to tell me."
>On the one hand, it'd be nice if we could ask if she knows about our blight, so we can discuss it when Kyouko's not around.
>On the other hand, there's no real way to ask that WHILE Kyouko's around, so...
>"Continue, then. Please."
>"A weapon carrying coalesced hope..." Whistle.
>Binding and sealing?
>Wait a second, never touch it? Didn't that spider touch the sword when we fought her?
>"So that sword could have been used to, say, imprison a horde of arachnids in an underground area, away from human or other youkai settlements?"
>Look at the sword and say, quietly, "So how did you end up in a river?"
>"What about a spider youkai? Would that also have been... repelled, unable to touch this sword?"
>"Is that how she knew what this sword was? Did she touch it and feel its power, its will?"
>Better clarify.
>"That youkai I told you about. I gathered from her that she was the one that threw the sword in the river. I think she thought it was gone forever. It was like she'd seen a ghost when she saw it in my hands."
>"And it's just arachnids that it's focused on, no other kind of being?"
>"But if this sword was in that shrine for the purpose of a barrier of some sort, a seal to hold the spiders I found underground, then someone would have had to have stayed down there to generate it, wouldn't they?"
>"But such a seal could have weakened with time, though. Enough to let a more... advanced arachnid dislodge this sword and break the seal down?"
>"Yeah. I'm thinking that I may need to visit those caves again, if I want the whole story. Not that I think I'll find the whole story in one go, but you never know what you might find. Kinda part of the Seeker's package, there."
>"Well, I appreciate what you've been able to tell me about Kumokirimaru. There's still a lot of mysteries about it, but at least I know more than I started."
>"Now, you mentioned more 'esoteric' rites could be worked with this sword, or the power in it. Would you know of anyone in town capable of doing so?"
>"I might have thought a city like this, with its reputation, would have maintained knowledge of traditions such as these."
>"In some ways, I guess that'd be people like me. I know I'll never take shinto powers and knowledge for granted again, if that means anything."
>"No need. I can't say I understand completely, but I think I know where you're coming from."
>"You'll forgive me, but, I have to ask. What about outside of Val Razua, in, say... Hanashibara? Would the old knowledge of this sort be more... readily accessable?"
>Stifle a grin. First a mostly forgotten race, then a forgotten sword, then a plant with a forgotten use, now a forgotten bloodline with forgotten power? Man, we could make a mint as a historian, at this rate.
>Now, when someone says 'feral spirits', does that mean things liek demons, specters, ghosts and undead, or more traditional, corporeal youkai such as ourselves?
>"So how do they feel about youkai nowadays?"
>"And where might I find these practitioners?"
>About how far away is that, do we know?
>Do the words Hakurei, Senhoku or Meijima mean anything to us?
>So not out of our range of travel if needs be.
>"Are we talking remote woodland, or well traveled? Like, would there be roads, or at least obvious paths, to Hakurei territory?"
>Can't be any worse than finding Yuuka's place would be. Probably safer, too, if this Yuuka is as dangerous as Dai made her out to be.
>Still and all, would such a thing even be possible, from what we know of magic? Using the faith in this blade to expunge the blight from our body? If the power is keeping the blight from melting our insides in a matter of minutes, could someone skilled enough use that power to cure us?
>"Well, then I may have some travelling to do in the days to come. After I take care of my business here in town, of course. I am a professional, after all."
>About how much time has passed since we arrived at the shrine?
>What is traditional to leave as an offering at shrines such as this?
>Bow slightly to the genuine miko. "Well, thank you again for your help, miko-sama. And if I have any further questions on the matter, may I call upon this shrine again?"
>"Now then, Kyouko. As I recall, I was about to tell you about the spot of trouble I had getting out of Braston, wasn't I?"
>"Are you still on the clock?"
>"Never heard that one before?"
>Nod a thanks to Sumiko.
>Ask of the miko, "Is that acceptable to you? I'd hate to get in the way of her work."
>Fold ears slightly down in anticipation of her yelling, return them to normal after.
>Then let us regale our young, cute youkai friend with our epic tale of finding a missing permit.
>"Believe me, I wish I could tell you. I hate leaving a problem unsolved. Okay, the problem WAS solved, but not knowing who pulled it off sets my tail hair on end."
>"Maybe. I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't mind another crack at tracking down whoever pulled this off, but that's just my professional pride talking."
>Presumably our flower still has shown no sign of flowering?
>Chuckle. "I'd be up for that. Even if I can't find the thief, I might be able to figure out how they pulled it off, show Lousie how to stop it happening again."
>Okay, she DEFINITELY has a thing for repetition.
>Do we know of any youkai, or types of youkai, that do that, an 'echo' youkai, for lack of a better term?
>Do we happen to recall a description of said spirits? And if so, does Kyouko look like she could be of that stock?
>Let's just hope she isn't sensitive about this habit of hers. For we are curious.
>"Now, do you mind if I ask you something?"
>"Have I been imagining it, or have you been repeating words and phrases you've heard here and there?"
>Take that as a yes.
>"Why?"
>Was that the name of those echoing mountain spirits?
>Are there any mountains around town that we noticed?
>"Yamabiko.... The echoing spirit?"
>"That'd do it, all right. But wouldn't that mean you were born in a mountainous area? How'd you end up in Val Razua?"
>Smile a little smile.
>"Yeah. I can relate."
>"Easthaven was, yeah. Real quiet little village. I still call it home, I still have my roots there. I'm not the sort of person to forget where she came from, not the least reason being what happened the last time I was there. But it was too small for me to live there."
>"Braston was a bit different. No one could ever call that place quiet, not with all the oni that live there. But this city, this was where I wanted to be almost from the minute I heard about it." Chuckles a humorless chuckle. "It's ironic. I dream about coming here for years, and I find myself wanting to leave as soon as this job I've got is done."
>Shake head. "Not unless you count the price of lodging, but that's more on my own somewhat thin wallet."
>"That spider youkai I mentioned before. And her giant spider friends. I had to leave before I saw that situation resolved. There was a plan in place to handle it- I sent one of the key parts of that plan back to Easthaven myself- but I don't know what happened."
>Walk apart a few paces and continue, "I hate leaving problems unsolved as it is. But this was my home. I have absolute confidence in Marisa- the witch I sent back to help handle things- and the plan we hatched was a good one. But I just don't know how everything turned out. And it's been... hard, with that uncertainty hanging over me."
>Give her an appreciative nod. "I'd like to think so. But I know I'll sleep a lot better once I get back home and see for myself."
>"Speaking of sleep, what's a decent place for someone to find an affordable bed here in town?"
>Assuming we have not passed by either of those two, ask Kyouko about them.
>Gotta love a good bowl of soup.
>Make a note about the pawn shop. Never know what you can find in a pawn shop.
>"I do enjoy a good bowl of soup. Don't suppose you'd know off the top of your head what the rates are in either place?'
>"How long would it take to look into both? That pawn shop sounds interesting, but I could use a good soup, too. Are they on the way to each other?"
>"Is the soup worth an hour's walk?"
>"I think I might go check it out, then, before it gets a lot later than it is. Gotta pitch up somewhere, after all."
>"How much longer is your shift here?"
>Cute though she is, that's a long time to hang around here waiting for her to finish sweeping up.
>"And I bet they appreciate.... Wait, do you get paid for pitching in like you do?"
>"I can respect that. But what about your other odd jobs?"
>Give her a pat on the shoulder. "Good on ya, girl."
>"So if I find my way back in in an hour or two's time, I might still find you here?"
>"I bet she wouldn't. But I'd be coming back to see you."
>"Well, because I thought we could go out for a drink or something, once you were done here. Maybe a bite to eat."
>Grin. "Oh yeah. And I haven't even told you about my mentor in the Seekers yet. She's a fair heap of stories rolled into one, that one."
>Chuckle.
>"Well all right, then, Kyouko, I'll go see if I can find a room for myself that won't cost an ear and a tail, then meet you back here?"
>Then let us be off to investigate these hotels that Kyouko told us of, their prices, specifically. And note the opening times of that pawn shop, as well.
>And leave a modest donation in the offeratory box on the way out. Sumiko was helpful, after all.
>Are we on what might be considered the edge of town, or simply a shadier district, where all manner of matching chicanery takes place?
>How much time has passed since we embarked upon your lodging quest?
>What do the meal costs look to be in the Owl's Roost?
>Presumably our flower still has not bloomed, nor shows any sign of it?
>Are we hungry enough to go for a quick bite before making our way back towards the shrine?
>Well, we're getting a nice glimpse of the big city, not a bad way to spend one's first day in town. Even if we are still short one cure.
>Did we happen to pass any alchemists along the way, or notice any in the vicinity?
>If either one are in the same general direction as Kyouko and her shrine, then let us meander thataways.
>If they are not, then let's just mosey on back towards the shrine.
>Place might be a good place for interesting deals, but unless something catches our ear about 'blights' or 'cures' or some combination of the two, then we shouldn't leave Kyouko waiting. Assuming she did wait, but she seems about as honest as an oni. If she said she'd be there, it seems a very safe bet her cute little face is still there.
>Make a guess at the time.
>Enter and find our date.... Not a date, where did that come from? Well, maybe you could call it that...
>Find Kyouko.
>Give her a jaunty wave. "Didn't keep you waiting, did I?"
>"Visiting those inns, I have learned that being a visitor to this city isn't really a good idea unless you're rich, or have a job. 'least if you want to stay for any length of time and not pitch up in a park somewhere."
>Chuckle. "Well, I'm not planning on it. I'm just saying I can sort of see the unprepared traveler thinking hard about it."
>"Though maybe at the edge of town, if I can't get some money coming in..."
>"Most of us do fairly well, but there's a lot of Seekers that wouldn't be able to make it here. I think I'll be okay, for now. If I had to stay here for a while, that'd be a different tale."
>"Although, on the other hand, if everything here costs twice as much or more than it does back home, stands to reason that work would pay twice as much as well." Pause. "Well, hopefully."
>I'm taking her home with me!
>Does Braston have anything in the area of tourist attractions, or features in general, that someone like Kyouko might find interesting?
>"But for now, where do you go to get a decent bite, or a drink, around here that doesn't cost a bunch?"
>"Heh. I suppose it's 'we' for tonight."
>Give her a brief run down of our tastes.
>Trying to keep them affordable tastes, of course.
>Ah, ramen. A time-honored classic. And frequently accompanied by good sake, too. The affordableness is very nice, as well.
>"Sounds perfect."
I think we're mostly playing the 'Mouse-About-Town'. Probably until we actually find the right one or something. Have to keep options open after all.
>Pity. She pulls off the miko clothes well.
>Ah, well. Let us give her a moment.
>How are multi-partner relationships viewed, to our knowledge?
>Nod and tuck in alongside her, and march off.
>Glance around for an unoccupied corner seat or booth.
>Let's have the one by the window.
>"What do you recommend here?"
>"Honey pork sounds good. Though I do like grilled meat, too...."
>Are we hungry enough for both?
>We haven't consumed any alcohol since we got poisoned, have we?
>Poisoned, diseased, blighted, corrupted, infected, we're still licked if we can't fix it.
>"They do serve sake here, too, right?"
>"More's the better. I'm not big on drinking, but today I could use a cup or two of hot sake."
>A drunk yamabiko. More to the point, a drunk Kyouko. Our ears might not survive.
>"Do you have sake very often?"
>On the other hand, she might be one of those drunks that can't go thirty seconds without hugging someone. Hmmm... All in all the better option, though our shoulders and/or back might complain come the morning.
>Ah, well, we'll worry about that when the need arises. Now, where's that waitress?
>"I'll have what she's having. Though just a single serving for me."
>If we are familiar enough to have a particular favourite type, then ask for that.
>If we do not, "Definately."
>Lean back and temple our fingers.
>"Yesss.... Where to begin....?"
>Let's begin at the beginning of our apprenticeship. It will help build appreciation of other subtle details.
>"Yes and no."
>*slurp*
>"Being out on my own is a statement that I can make it on my own. That I didn't need her looking over my shoulder any more. I'm the kind of girl that needs to be able to take care of herself."
>*swig*
>"But that mage was a lot of fun. More than that, she's a friend. A good friend, one of the best I've ever had. She'd have my back in a heartbeat, and there's been a couple times when I sure wish she'dve been there."
>Chuckle. "I suppose a little faith here and there never hurts. Thanks."
>So far as we know, does Marisa ever get out this way much?
>How hard has that sake been hitting us?
>"I get the feeling you and her would get along well if your paths ever crossed."
>"Oh, she is at that."
>Assuming we still have a story or two left over about Marisa, either from our own time or her vaunted reputation, let us regale Kyouko with it, she likes Marisa stories.
>"Well, it worked out except for the people whose house was destroyed."
>Was it a nice house?
>"Well, it worked out except for the people whose house was destroyed."
>That would probably make Kyouko sad. So let's put it this way.
>"It worked out once everything was all fixed up. Which is how Marisa's missions usually end."
>"Oh, right, sorry. I think it had actually been abandoned, and abandoned for a while, to boot. Probably wasn't in the best of shape."
>Pause. "Which I suppose means that a nicer house got built there after Mari's job was done."
>"And no one was around for it to fall on, which was nice."
>"Would you have room for it? I'm having trouble with just one..."
>"You pack away ramen like a pro."
>"How 'bout a different flavor, maybe... garlic pork?"
>"If you think you can finish it, of course."
>"Yeah, I'll have to make a note to find out how much it costs to keep a bottle of that stuff stocked up back home. I'm not one for drinking, but it never hurts to have something for a special occasion."
>What do we know about how much different varieties of sake go for on the markets? Or would we have to consult an Oni for that knowhow?
>"What are you trying to read for?"
>In terms of beverages, alcoholic and non, what sort of flavors do we lean towards? For example, the sake we just had.
>"Hmm...It's okay, but it's a bit dry and sharp for my liking. I figured other folks might like if I have something like that on hand though, never hurts after all. Did go okay with the food though."
>And the waitress said it was popular. The folks around here must have some interesting tastes if they like that variety.
>"What kinda dessert does this place offer?"
>Indicate our bottle. "I still have a bit of mine left, if you want another bit."
>"S'okay, I don't mind. Besides, you liked it more than I did."
>Push the bottle towards her anyhow.
>But top off our own cup first. We don't want her TOO intoxicated, after all.
>Wasn't there a menu of some kind?
>"By the by, do you live too far from here?"
>"Walking distance."
>"Many a true word. Convenient walking distance, then."
>"So..."
>Make a guess at her average walking speed and distance traveled in a day...
>"Within an hour?"
>"Sounds good. A brisk walk is good after a meal, but not too far as to be work."
>"Well, now, that's a good question."
>*swig*
>"As it looks, by best bet would probably be the Seeker's guild here. Trouble is, including the security deposit they charge, it'll tie up almost half the money I have on me."
>"Oh they were good places. And thanks again for the suggestions, by the way. And I'm sure their rooms are good, too. But they're also not as affordable, either, when all's said and done."
>Pause.
>"I hope not. I always thought I'd make it big here, not go bust."
>"In the meantime, I'm always looking for alternatives to stretch my money a bit further."
>"Well, a lot of it's simple things. I consider it a point of pride to make two bucks out of one. Saving a guilder or two on food whenever I can, saving a guilder or two on lodging if I can."
>Smile. "Well, ideally, I'd find a friend of mine I had here in town and see if I could crash there for a day or two, until the job I'm on's done. Seeing as how this is my first day here, well..."
>Grin. "Well, I'm not a very big youkai."
>Chuckle. "It's certainly not something I'm told often. I'll take it as a compliment."
>We are satisfied for food and have consumed a comfortable volume of sake, correct?
>"I'm good for now."
>Small place or no, it WOULD be 140 guilders more in our pocket in the morning.
>"So... Do you think I could fit on a little patch on your floor? I don't take up all that much space."
>Raise one eyebrow slightly.
>How do we normally react when some stares at us reeeeeeeeal hard? If it's someone we... like?
>Let's, uh... Let's just give her another moment or two.
>If after approximately ten or fifteen seconds, her stare and body language is unchanged, reach under the table with our tail and tickle her leg.
>Nod once. "Really."
>"Even if they're your friend?"
>That was.. sort of relieving.
>Hey, wait, that means she's taking US home! Hoisted by my own petard!
>"I really appreciate this, Kyouko, thank you!"
>Stand a bit more casually than she, and point to the empty cup with our fuzzy tail. "You gonna be okay?"
>"Well, allrighty, then."
>Offer her our arm. Just in case. Don't want her falling over now.
>But ONLY if it won't show off our disease!
>"Lotta folks I know would be.. unsteadied by knocking back that much sake. Little extra support goes a long ways."
>Shrug slightly, then tuck in behind-
>Door? Don't we still have to pay?
>The last thing we need right now is the gestappo breaking down Kyouko's door in the middle of the night to catch a couple dine and dashers.
>If the counter was not in the way of the door, call, "Kyouko-chan?"
>Though leave off the honorific if they are not used.
>Rub our forefinger and thumb together in the universal 'money' gesture.
>Chuckle wryly.
>"Well, my friend, there's still the little matter of the bill."
>Maybe the extra sake wasn't such a hot idea after all.
>Let us take care of our own bill as well, while ensuring that Kyouko-chan counts out the correct amount of coin.
>Well, we have told her that we're hard up for cash. And someone else paying for food is always good, saves us a buch even if we weren't in a city like this.
>So, say, "Thanks, but that's really not necessary."
>... Where'd that come from? Sake must have hit us hard, too.
>Well, if she's gonna be that way about it...
>"Okay, then. Whatever makes you happy."
>Okay, NOW we can leave.
>Wait, did she leave a tip? Waitress was pretty promt and friendly enough.
>If Kyouko-chan did not, leave 2 extra guilders and then catch up with the yamabiko.
>Follow her home.
>Nod.
>"It's a lot quieter here than back in Braston, too. The Oni make sure of that."
>"The quiet. There's no such thing as a quiet oni, let alone when you put a lot of them together, add alcohol and a few friendly rivalries. And not so friendly ones as well."
>"I have noticed a distinct lack of them since I arrived. And take it from me, their party-going rep is well earned."
>"Mind you, they do good work, too. Matter of fact, it was an oni who made the sheathe for my sword here."
>Nod.
>"I might have gone for something fancier- it's a cool sword, after all- but I was in a bit of a hurry, so this had to do."
>Look her deep in the eyes.
>"Why, to meet you of course. I knew that my destiny awaited me in Val Razua, and it's both of you!"
>Pull her and Mystia into an alley and ravish them. And don't let Marisa watch.