>Where do we live in the outside world?>You live in Kyoto, Japan. In a small house near your university.
>Yukari guaranteed their safety though...>You remember Yukari promising to keep them safe, but you would still feel much better if you saw them for yourself.
>Attempt to dream about Gensokyo while still awake. Do we still have this ability?>You concentrate, and see a flash of... something? You couldn't quite make it out... However, it was something, the last time you tried this since your visit to Gensokyo you got nothing. Perhaps it has to do with your proximity to the barrier...
> Go home and start sobbing
> "Renko.........I'm sorry."
>Don't go home yet. Try to dream again.>You concentrate again, and see another flash that you can't make out. It seems like you are indeed dreaming something, but it goes away too fast to decipher.
>Get as close as we can to the barrier and try again.>You walk up to the barrier until you're right next to it and concentrate.
>Look around.>You seem to be on the side of a mountain, you can already see a fair amount of locations from here.
>A road... try to get to higher ground for a better view of our surroundings. Perhaps we can find a place we've been to before.>You begin to ascend the road, looking for a better vantage point, eventually reaching a rock that protrudes from the mountain like a ledge. You still can't seem to see anything farther than the woods at the foot of the Hakurei Shrine steps.
>By the theory that this is a dream, we should be able to influence it greatly, right? So, try to imagine ourselves flying, like how we managed in that strange place Uriel was, rather than just in Gensokyo.>Usually influencing a your dreams in such a manner doesn't work, but you decide to try it anyway.
>Try to quit dreaming.>You think about aborting the dream and suddenly find yourself next to the barrier again. The dream sensation is gone.
>Try to dream again. Perhaps we'll appear elsewhere.>You dream once more.
>Though exploring this place would be nice, our priority is finding if Renko and her sister are alright. If the next few leaps don't reach her, then we'll have to go in our-self...>You abort the dream, and then re-enter dream state.
>Undream, and repeat for a new location.
> Look around. A field should mean we're outside. It's probably easier to see if Renko or Yukari's around here.>Initially, you see nothing but sunflowers. But eventually you spot what looks like a woman with green hair off in the distance, holding a pink parasol.
>Can we get closer to have a better look ?>You start walking in the direction of the green haired lady.
>If so do it.
>Look for the spot.>You look at the spot just in time to see a few fairies emerge, one in the center has a bouquet of sunflowers in her arms, and, from what you can tell at this distance, seems to be giggling happily.
>Has the woman with the parasol noticed us yet?>She has not, and you are unsure if she will.
>Step away some. Glowing means dangerous most of the time. Especially when it's pointed at someone.>You step back, and proceed to watch as a massive beam of light, like a thick laser, shoots out of the parasol. The fairies notice it too late and most of them are vaporized on impact. The one with the bouquet, who managed to dodge better than the rest falls to the ground with what looks like almost all of her right wings and some of her right leg missing.
>You know what, let's not attract any undue attention from this woman...
>Try to fly away from the garden, or at least away from the laser lady.
>This is a dream anyways, right? We can't impact anything. Besides maybe take her attention away, but she probably isn't one of the youkai that can notice us anyways. Let's skedaddle.>Just in case this is one of those youkai, you begin to fly away.
>Continue. Looking around as well.
>More specifically, for anything that stands out, not just people.>You continue flying at a snail's pace.
>Move out ! Onwards towards the houses ?>You move towards the structures in the distance. It's going to take quite a while to reach them at your current pace.
>Is our flight faster than running? Is it tiring more than that? Regardless, keep flying. It's likely good practice.>You can run much faster than you can fly, but running will tire you out quicker.
>Try to speed up our flight, but fly low, in case we fall.>You will yourself to go faster, you seem to speed up slightly, but you're beginning to wobble. You will likely fall soon if you keep this up.
>Can we focus our energy behind us ? If so do it.>You attempt to focus energy behind you.
>Is it increasing our speed ? Even if slightly ?
>How stealthy is our flying?
>How much noise are we making, if any?>Not very stealthy. You're fully visible. However, the flight doesn't seem to be making any noise.
>One the one hand if we move really slowly, it'll be less likely to attract the eyes, but it could also give an observer a greater opportunity to examine us.>While in reality that would be true, you are currently in dream state. Nobody can see nor hear you, so how stealthy you are is irrelevant. However, some youkai may be able to sense your presence, and you don't think any amount of stealth will prevent notice from those youkai, should you encounter any.
>What's the laser lady doing now?>The lady has put down her parasol and is now holding the injured fairy in the air by the scruff of her neck.
>Uuhh... that poor fairy... ... maybe we could help. If she can sense our presence, but we go away before she can do anything, maybe the fairy can escape. And the next time we go into a dream, we could look for Renko again.>You ponder whether or not to help the fairy. Would it even be possible in dream state?
>We shouldn't risk it. Our focus is Renko right now and seeing if she's safe. Exit the dream>You abort the dream and find yourself beside the barrier once more.and redream. This seems to be our best choice of looking for her...
>Look around when we're back.>The shimmering barrier takes up a large portion of your view. The cracks that formed when Reimu was shot have faded and shrunk considerably, but are still present. The Outside's version of the Hakurei Shrine is nearby, looking abandoned and decrepit, as usual. Opposite of it is an old road that, if followed, will eventually take you back to the more populated areas of Japan.
>"Renko...">You dream again...
>Dream again.
>This dreaming seems to have a random pattern, so we just have to hope we can get near enough to Renko to see if she's okay. We don't know where she is anyways.>You realize that dreaming seems to be an ineffective method to find Renko. You could always physically enter Gensokyo by tearing the barrier again, but you have no idea where to start looking.
> Approach the cat a bit and examine it.>You walk up to the cat.
>Urg. Exit the dream.>You exit the dream and attempt to dream again. Thinking specifically about Eientei.
>Try dreaming of a specific location in Gensokyo, like Eientei.
>Look around.>You are standing near the river, which goes on forever in both directions. You can't really see many landmarks, though you spot the silhouette of a mountain in the distance.
>Try again.>You abort and re-dream once more.
>How are we feeling?>You don't feel tired, but you're still a bit anxious to know if Renko's alright.
>Are we literally in the middle of nowhere ?>You are in a field, and there are no recognizable landmarks other than the same mountain in the distance.
>Look around.
>>Locate elderly couple, spooky mask, talking computer, and stupid dog.
>Shut the system off and turn it back on again.
>Alternatively, wait for everything to load.
>Use our rad hacking skills to put us at max level.
>Fly upwards in the direction of said mountain.>You begin to fly at a snail's pace towards the mountain.
>This is illegal, you know...
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmQFcVR6vEs)
>This'll take way too long...>This is going to take forever...
>We don't even know if Renko's up there. Exit the dream and re-enter another.
>We don't even know if Renko's up there. Exit the dream and re-enter another.>You exit the dream and re-enter.
>Wait, haven't we already been to the top of the mountain in a previous dream? Might be better to travel a different direction now.>You were midway up the mountain, if you recall. You have not seen the summit.
>What can we see from here ?>Taking up most of your view to the northwest is the mountain and the roads and forests that lead up it. To the southeast you think you see some kind of marshland near a cliffside. You spot several people moving around within.
>Start heading southeast?>You approach the marsh-like area to the southeast.
>Carefully maneuver our way to the door, taking note of if anyone seems to notice us.>You carefully get closer to the door. Nobody seems to notice you.
>Head inside.>You enter the door...
>Keep an eye out for anyone that looks like Renko, or that we've been around with Renko with as we head to the door.>There are no visible doors in the hall, only connecting corridors and the chamber up ahead.
>How did they get electricity here?>You wonder why there's electricity here...
>Oh. Head to the chamber then.>You make your way to the chamber. There are two other large corridors, to your left and right. There seems to be several of what appear to be businesses carved into the walls.
>Head for the Residential Block. Better chances of finding Renko if she's here in the first place. Nothing's stopping us from checking both though.>You follow the right corridor, which leads into a room with a low ceiling that seems to slope down into a pool of water. There are a few doors lining the walls, but they're all closed.
>Look for Renko or Sumireko among the people. If we can't find them, head back and to the leftKoredaicorridor.
>Check the door.>You head over to the door.
>Exit the dream.>You abort the dream and find yourself by the barrier once more.
>Sigh and re enter a dream.>You dream once more.
>Actually, talking to Yukari might help us find out how Renko and her sister are doing. If she's cooperative at least.
> If there are houses, check one. Preferably for Renko or Sumireko.
>Or Yukari, even, since it seems likely we might see her here. Perhaps if she shares our power, she'd notice us. Apparently she'll know if we try to enter Gensokyo anyway, considering she did right away last time... so maybe talking to her would be a more direct method...>You move to the nearest house and open the door.
>Actually, talking to Yukari might help us find out how Renko and her sister are doing. If she's cooperative at least.
>Given that we haven't followed her instructions, she might not respond too kindly to our presence...
>But we're not in Gensokyo. We're just dreaming about it. :3
>Yeah, and what are we gonna do, turn around and go home? How long are we gonna keep redreaming over and over hoping to blunder into Renko? If Yukari can tell when we enter like she seemed to last time, it's inevitable.
>However what if that makes things even worse ? It`s quite possible that if we attempt to get in, she may force us back again and make so we stay here a longer time, maybe we should try to improve our tears and make them more like Lady Yukari`s gaps ?>You debate whether or not you should seek out Yukari, or get her to come to you. Would it really be a good idea?
>Would like to just practice our power more if we can't find Yukari or Renko this time around. Soon as we get good enough, then we can go back to Gensokyo.>You consider practicing your power more, and re-entering Gensokyo when you're strong enough. However, you have no idea how long would that take...
> Leave the house and search for one that doesn't appear as bad as the rest. If anyone lives here, they must've chosen the better one, right?>You leave the house and look for the one in the most pristine condition. It seems the house Ran and Chen emerged from the last time you were here is the only one that fits such a description. If you were to guess, this is probably Yukari's house too...
>There's still a chance to stop this. Maybe Yukari is still keeping Renko and her sister safe, like she promised. Besides, we'd get in more trouble if we were caught here.>You continue to debate whether or not an encounter with Yukari would be a good thing... She did say she would keep the Usamis safe, and she could possibly get upset with you if she caught you...
>I'm for leaving the dream and practicing our abilities (much) more.
>Are there windows?>There are. There are a couple on the first story that you could easily peek into if you were close enough.
>Well, here we go...>You walk up to the house and make your way to the closest window.
>Peek into one of the windows.
>Move from the window and look around outside.>You move from the window and begin walking along the perimeter of the house, scanning the area.
>Try to listen for any signs of activity within the house.>You keep an ear to the house. You hear no sounds of activity within.
>Welp, something's definitely up.>You check the door.
>Try the door.
>Whoa, we haven't checked the second floor windows yet.>There is indeed a second floor, which does have its own set of windows.
>There are second floor windows, right? "First Story" implies it's a multi story house.
//First, don't say such things about yourself. You've been doing quite well in your GMing (I wouldn't know where to start as far as being a GM), and people have been known to repeat mistakes twice. If this happens a third time I'll message Pesco myself.//Whelp, I just checked the date of the message in act 1 part 1 where I noticed the first time, and it seems I was mistaken... Apparently there wasn't a second time, it's just the date for the first time was more recent than I remembered... So I pretty much just did that rant a few posts ago for no reason and made an utter fool of myself doing so... Ugh, I feel like a complete idiot... I guess I'll go back and delete that rant, I guess, lest a mod actually read it and it starts a confusion...
Er, assuming I don't fail to notice the third update. Anyway...
>Go around the sides, checking the entire house for a second door.>You walk around the entire perimeter of the house. You find no other doors.
>Fly up and check the second story windows.>You fly up and check the first window you come across, finding that the curtains behind it are drawn.
//Aw, don't be like that. Your Immortal Quest looked fun, but I came too late. And Wind Priestess Quest was really good. My first attempt at a quest, I made a grave mistake, and I'm very thankful that said quest was deleted and never mentioned again. Still, Daiyousei Quest, although active because I'm pretty much only on here, doesn't seem to have much regulars as this. Now then...//Actually it seemed you had more regulars than me for a quite a while. lol. And you actually managed to get Kilga to stick around in your game, whereas they lost interest in this game on the very first page... Hell, you even managed to have Purvis as a player in yours for a while...
>Fly around for more windows. Don't wanna break any just to go in.>You slowly circle around the house and find two more windows on the second floor. One is on the same side as the first window, at the opposite end of the wall. The other is on the side of the house opposite of the ground-level window you looked through earlier.
//We can go in (if we find a way), but if Yukari (can actually) sees us, then we'll just have to explain things...
>Any of them open?>No.
>>We're gonna steal Chen! *Cat Burgler. C'est la vie*
>Can we stay within a dream long enough to make a big trek from one area to, say, Eientei? Sumireko may still be there, in which case Renko would likely be around as well... or at least we'd get one out of two. Although, we probably don't know how to get -anywhere- from right here...>You are unsure. It would probably depend on your proximity to Eientei.
>Travelling long distances sounds like a good way to spot someone along the way, but...>You ponder whether or not traveling a long distance while in your dream is a good idea...
>We're currently standing (near the border) outside by ourselves. It's pretty dangerous to do this for long without being able to do this at home or with Renko along to keep watch.
>One more try. Exit the dream and access our surroundings.>You abort the dream and look around.
>Dream again, let`s see where this leads now.>You enter a dream once more.
>Well, this is close! Pick a directon and start walking until we see something notable, then. Keep an eye out for roads or anything familiar...>You pick a random direction and start walking.
>Oh boy, here we go. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2ZGBNpYo5g)>You find a piece of fallen bamboo and stick it into the ground in the direction you were heading.
>Try to make a mark in the dirt? With a rock or piece of fallen bamboo? To try to set a kind of trail/mark so that we dont' wind up going in circles?
>Actually, find a piece of fallen bamboo, stick it in the ground at an angle, pointing in the direction we're headed.
>If possible.
>Continue on unless we still feel watched after a bit.>You continue on, but the feeling doesn't go away.
>GO TO SLEEP AGAIN!>You are already dreaming. You are also dreaming while awake. It would be rather silly to go to sleep now...
>Point at ourselves with a questioned look, as if to say: "Who, me?">Before doing this have a look on our surroundings to see if there is someone else.
>Before doing this have a look on our surroundings to see if there is someone else.>You look around.
>Point at ourselves with a questioned look, as if to say: "Who, me?">"Yes, you. Believe it or not, I can see you... But it doesn't seem like all of you is here... Interesting..." says the voice.
>Did Uriel sound anything like this, just in case? >_> <_<>No. Uriel's voice is a sinister, masculine voice. This voice is definitely a woman's.
>Assume a slightly concerned stance.>"Hello Maribel. My name is YuugenMagan. It's a pleasure to meet you face-to-face... Well, at least a part of you..."
>"Then uh..... hi i guess ? The name is Maribel, may i have yours ?"
>"Um, how are you doing?">"Oh, I'm doing just fine..." The eye in front of you blinks.
>Have a little bit of silence.>An uneasy silence hangs over the area.
>"I-I'm sorry I couldn't be here in person...">"It's fine. Perhaps eventually I will be able to meet all of you..." YuugenMagan replies, "I can be very patient."
>"All of us ? What do you mean ? I'm alone here, besides you i mean.">"Well, 'us' wasn't implied. I'm merely saying that you're only a fraction of your life force... The rest of you is somewhere else..."
>"Oh ! Well, i'm still me, full life energy or not."
>Take a curious look.
>"What are you anyways if i may ask ? Are you an youkai of sorts ? Not many people see me in this state."
>"Oh, okay... I'd like to know more about you, if you don't mind.">"Well, yes, I am a youkai. And I've been in existence for a very long time..."
>"Oh ! And what do you do ? Are you like Lady Yukari ?">YuugenMagan chuckles, "No, I am not like Yakumo at all... My specialty is energy, not boundaries... Hang on..." bolts of yellow electricity shoot out from the eyes converging at a single point, before turning into an outline of a woman in some kind of odd outfit, complete with a face, "There... Perhaps you would feel more comfortable talking to me like this." her voice is coming from the figure now, its lips moving to match the dialogue.
>"So, why are you here, in the bamboo forest?">"Oh, I was merely observing, that's all..."
>"Interesting, so do you just go around the world exploring and looking ? Or do you act as a guardian of Gensokyo too ?">YuugenMagan laughs, "Guardian? Me? Oh, by all means no..." she smirks, her five eyes staring at you, "I'm only observing one place in particular, mostly because something caught my eye..."
>"I mean, you look sorta powerful...">"Why, thank you. I guess I am powerful, but you should've seen me way back in my glory days... I was much stronger then than I am now."
>"What place ? And what caught your eye ? Or eyes i could say ?">"That place deep in the forest, I do believe they call it Eientei... There was someone interesting that showed up there a few days ago."
>"Can you show me the way there please?">Certainly. Just walk that way until you reach the road, and take a right. The figure in the center of YuugenMagan points in the indicated direction, giving you a smile.
>"Great ! Thanks ! Now i can finally see if Renko and Sumireko are alright.">"It was a pleasure to meet you as well."
>Give her a bow.
>"It was a great pleasure meeting you Miss Yuugen, i hope we meet again, bye !"
>Move towards the direction she pointed.>You move in the direction YuugenMagan indicated.
>Look around.>As you take a right, you examine your surroundings
>Take a right, as instructed.
>Woohoo!>You do remember the way to Sumireko's room.
>Let's go inside. Can we remember a way to Sumireko's room? Of course, if we just see her or Renko around or hear their names, that's good too.
>...and keep an eye out for anyone who seems like they can sorta notice us.
>Be stealthy, we don't want to be spotted by someone, they might tell Yukari.>As you move, you keep a look out for anyone who might see you. Nobody here seems to be able to notice you so far...
>Continue at a faster pace.>You pick up the pace and soon arrive outside Sumireko's room. The door is already open.
>Check inside for Renko or Sumireko.>You peer inside the room.
>They're okay... Good.>You breathe a sigh of relief knowing that Renko and her sister are okay.
>It should be okay to return now. Yukari still has Chen looking after the two, and Chen will probably call Yukari if something goes wrong.
>Agreed, let`s go back to training.>Deciding that it would be best if you continued your training now, you exit your dream.
>Wake up from the dream and check our surroundings.
>We should return home now and practice.>You start down the long road home.
>Hmm.... take glances of our surroundings, this is really sketch since we don't know if it's with us or Renko, but Renko does have Chen there with her....>You look around, you don't see anything out of the ordinary...
>Do we see anything out of common ?
>Swiftly double time back to the barrier, paying attention to the surroundings.>You return to the barrier. Nothing seems out of the ordinary.
>Anything odd ?
>Try dreaming of Gensokyo again.>You enter dream state.
>Exit and re-dream. Maybe it's got something to do with Renko.>You exit and re-enter the dream.
>Look around. Are there any immediate exits?>You see a light behind you, it might be an exit, however, the cave continues to descend in the opposite direction.
>"Oh boy here we go..." (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2ZGBNpYo5g)>There doesn't seem to be anything threatening in the immediate area.
>Look around for any dangers as well.
>Check the direction of the wind.>The wind appears to be coming from below, and seems to be flowing towards the light.
>Lick our index finger and put it up against the wind, if we have to.
>How steep/not steep is the drop off/descent?>The entire cave is a somewhat constant slope in the area you're in. It's not steep enough to easily lose footing, but it's not flat either...
>Walk closer to the edge, taking care not to slip.
>Try to look over, once again taking care not to slip. Can we see the bottom or anything in the drop?
>The entire cave is a somewhat constant slope in the area you're in. It's not steep enough to easily lose footing, but it's not flat either...
>You cannot see the bottom.
>_
>To be more specific on the cave's steepness, would we be in more of a danger of hitting the very bottom if we fell, or would be more in danger from hitting the sides on our way down?>You would be more in danger of hitting and rolling down the sides if you slipped and fell.
>Why can't we see the bottom? Does it go down too far? Is the bright light in the way?>The cave slopes down for a while, far enough where you can't see the bottom from your position.
//Oh, oops. Got my directions mixed up.>You approach the light...
>A light, eh?
>Approach the light.
>Check ourselves.>You are very much alive and well, and you don't feel any different than before.
>Are we dead?
>Try to get closer to the gushing sound. If anything seems to get too dangerous, exit the dream.>You try to pimpoint the gushing sound, and soon enough you find the source.
>Do we still have that bad feeling ?>The bad feeling seems to have mostly gone away.
>If so evaluate it.
>Exit the dream. What if the bad feeling was in the outside world?>You exit the dream.
>...Maybe we should check on Renko one more time, that's it.>Thinking you should check on Renko once more, just to be sure, you re-dream.
>Redream and try to locate the bamboo forest and or Eientei.
>Are we on the base again ?>You are.
>If so exit the dream again.
>Look around again.>You examine your surroundings, nothing has changed.
>This time, try imagining Eientei, how it looks and how did the grass feel, what we felt and heard, then with those thoughts in mind try to dream once again.>You picture Eientei in your mind trying to get as detailed as an image as possible...
>"Oh !"
>Analyze it, and then try to manipulate it, attempting to make a stable tear focused on the image we see mentally in the real world.
>Don't make a tear in it yet.>It certainly looks like a boundary, a weak one, but it's definitely there the more you examine it. You think you could make a tear in this...
>Can we see anything on the image that moves ? A person ? A tree ? An animal ?>You cannot.
//Don`t worry ! I thought you wanted us to go back instead of trying it.>You attempt to open a tear in the boundary.
>Try to manipulate it, attempting to make a stable tear focused on the image we see mentally in the real world.
>Can we see where it leads to?>You cannot.
>...We aren't in Gensokyo ... And Yukari told us to practice our abilities...
>Crawl into the tear.
>"Oh boy, here we go..." (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2ZGBNpYo5g)>You crawl into the tear...
>"Oh ! Well, this is something, i`m back here !">The rabbits continue to eye you as you get up, before heading on their way.
>Get up.
>"Oh don`t mind me, just exploring a bit."
>Wait, are we actually in Gensokyo now? Not dreaming?>If Yukari found out what just happened, she will definitely not be happy...
>Crap. Yukari won't like this...
>That's new though. We might have to test this again.>You visualize the hallway outside Sumireko's room, remembering as much details as possible.
>Try to visualize the hallway right outside of Sumireko's room, similar to how we did with getting here.
>Okay, we've been using up way too much energy and we should return home for now. At least we know how to check up on where Sumireko and Renko should be.>Feeling tired from the energy drain you turn back towards your tear.
>Return through the tear we made if it's still there.
>Close the tear and head into Eientei and where the receptionist usually is.>You close the tear and enter Eientei.
>"Excuse me, but is it alright if I rest in one of the rooms here? I'm a bit tired and can't keep going for much longer.">"Does this place look like an inn to you?" The receptionist frowns, "I mean, my apologies, but we always need rooms available in case of a sudden influx of patients... You know?"
>"Oh. I understand. I'm really sorry for being inconsiderate.">"It's fine... Sorry for the inconvenience."
>Exit from the inside of Eientei.
>Rather than exit, ask if we can visit our friend Sumireko staying in one of the rooms. (We're close enough to a friend, right? XD)>You consider leaving, but decide to visit Renko and Sumireko instead, while you're here.
>"Then would you mind if i visited a room instead ? To see a friend and her sister.">"No, not at all. Do you know the room number?"
>We still know where Sumireko's room is correct ?>Yes. It's room 127 if you recall correctly
>On that note... excitement! We've learned how to gap to places we've been before! This is a pretty huge breakthrough!>This is definitely a milestone in terms of your power development.
>Although it does leave us pretty winded afterwards, we should improve our stamina too.>You resolve to improve your stamina somehow.
>"I think it`s.... 127 ? The person`s name is Sumireko, it will likely be brief.">"Let's see..." The receptionist looks through a binder, "Alright, it seems there's no visiting restrictions for that room, so I say you're good to go!"
>"Thanks!">"Glad I could help." The receptionist smiles.
>Let's go!>You make your way to room 127 and step inside.
>"I was training my abilities, and it was going well. My last attempt wound up taking me here though... I-I didn't really mean to actually come here though, I was just practicing. I have to go back before Lady Yukari thinks I didn't listen to her, but I need a bit of time.">Renko doesn't say a word, but runs over to you and gives you a warm embrace.
>"U-uhm, it took a good bit out of me, I'm tired...">"O-Oh!" Renko lets go, "Sorry... There's an extra chair if you want to sit."
>See if we can find a good place to sit down. Otherwise, lean against a wall. Then, look more excited!
>"But, it was really cool! It looked more like one of Lady Yukari's gaps, and it took me right from the barrier outside to Eientei's door! I think I can do it to get home too, after a little rest."
>We probably shouldn't mention what we did to get here until we can do it more reliably.>You sit down in the indicated chair, and speak. Leaving out the middle part.
>"It's really really nice to see you again and know that your safe Renko." Breath a sigh of relief.>"I can say the same about you."
> "Please don't get into any trouble while I'm gone. I've been worried crazy out there. I've been using my time to try and develop my abilities so I can come back sooner. Yukari said it'd take at most a few years for me to be ready, but we proved her wrong before, right?">"Hey, don't worry... I'm already in trouble remember? But at least it won't get any worse... And yes, I think we have."
>"I`m just glad you`re ok... we`ll be together again for real soon, so don`t worry...">Renko returns the smile.
>Give her a smile.
>Turn towards Chen.>"I've been fine," Chen replies "so has Yukari-sama and Ran-sama. I heard Reimu woke up today, Yukari-sama came by to visit her earlier."
>"So how have you been Chen ? What about Miss Reimu and Lady Yukari and Miss Ran ?"
>"Have you been able to do anything more with your powers Renko? What about flying?">"No, not really... I haven't noticed anything different in my powers." Renko frowns, "And I haven't even tried the other thing yet..."
>"What about your sister? Is Sumireko still alright?">"She... She hasn't woken up yet..." Renko looks towards the ground, frowning.
>"They said it wasn't serious though, right? We managed to save her before something worse could happen, and I'm really glad for that.">"Yeah... At least she's alive..."
>"So... If Reimu's awake, Yukari might be coming back here soon... She did say that what would happen to you would be decided when Reimu wakes.">"I-It'll be alright... I mean... They let Sumireko off the hook, right?"
>Frown.
>"Yea. You didn't really want to do it either." Nod>"Huh?" Renko looks over.
>Look to Sumireko.
>"Sumireko?"
>"Is she`s waking up ?"
>Turn to Chen.
>"Chen, could you please call someone just to be safe ?"
>"N-Not Yukari or Ran though...">"Huh? Oh, sure." Chen replies, before leaving the room.
>Approach Sumireko with Renko.
>Make sure not to get too close to Sumireko. Don't want to surprise her too much (yet).>The two of you get close to Sumireko, but not too close.
>"She looks like she's having a nightmare. I hope she's alright..."
>"Has she done this before? Maybe you should try to comfort her...">"No... This is the first time she's stirred since we brought her back..." Renko gets closer to Sumireko, reaching her hand out to hold her.
>Quickly block the doorway.>You quickly run to the doorway and block it.
>"Hey wait ! You`re safe ! You`re safe ! We freed you from him !">Sumireko doesn't seem to hear you.
>Embrace her if we can, this way we can buy some time and ease her fears.
>Let's not grab her. She's probably never seen us before. Maybe call to Renko for that?>You decide not to embrace her.
>"S-Sumireko, are you alright?">Sumireko continues to clutch her head in pain. As she does so, several objects in the room begin levitating.
>"Renko, what should we do?">"I-I don't know!!!" Renko exclaims.
>Look outside towards the corridor, anyone there that could help us ?>You peek outside. You see Chen rushing over with Reisen and Eirin, by the looks on their faces, you can tell that they heard Sumireko scream.
>"C-Chen's back, just watch out or something.">"O-Okay!"
>Move out of the way of the doorway.
>Turn to Chen and co.>"Out of our way!" Eirin yells.
>"Quick ! Something is really wrong with her, she started levitating stuff too !"
>Try to make sense of what's happening.>You turn around to see a large hole in the wall, all the levitated objects and Sumireko are gone. Renko is lying against the wall, likely knocked down by whatever happened.
>"I-I think there's something wrong with Sumireko.">"I-I can see that..." says Reisen, "Wait here..."
>Point to the distant figure.
>Shout to Reisen. "D-Don't be too rough!">You shout to Reisen as she flies away. She doesn't respond.
>Go over to Renko.>"Y-Yeah... I'm fine..." Renko replies.
>"Are you alright Renko?"
>Look at Eirin. "Her eyes didn't seem right... it was like she was in a trance."
>"She was also clutching her head constantly in pain, as if she had an extreme headache, what could have caused that.... ?">"I'm not sure exactly what could've caused it. I'd assume some kind of magic... But I'd have to conduct a more thorough examination to precisely identify the problem, but, of course, we'd need to get her back for that..."
>"It also looked like she was having a nightmare, and then this happened nearly seconds after she woke up. I don't know if she was really awake though.">"Hmm... That is strange... But again, I'd need to conduct a more thorough examination to determine what's wrong with her..."
>"I hope she's alright.">"I hope so too..." says Renko.
>"Um, Dr. Eirin, could you please tell me how well Miss Reimu is faring ? I heard that she woke up.">"Ah yes, she woke up a few hours ago. Her heart is in a more stable condition. However, she will be bedridden for several months, we can't have her putting too much strain on the myocardium, or else it will risk the wound re-opening."
>"Did she...say anything when she woke up?">"She asked what happened, and I explained that miss Yakumo brought her in in critical condition. She then asked about you two, and I told her that one of you is here, awaiting judgement, while the other one left..."
>"Was the judgement talked about more? Did Yukari say anything? Where is Yukari now? W-Were either of them angry or anything?">"I was not present when Yakumo visited, sorry..."
>Recall inventory.>INVENTORY:
>"Of course...No harm will come to them in your absence, I guarantee it.">Also again, we can't do much help, considering we're bad at flying and we (probably) don't have much energy left after coming here. Staying with Renko for longer is just gonna make it harder to leave again when it's time.
>Have we recovered enough to attempt to make another tear like the one before?>You don't think so.
>"This is really worrying, i was just going to visit briefly, but with this event.... i can't leave without making sure that Sumireko is safe.">"Yeah," Renko nods, "I'm worried too... I mean, I just got her back..."
>There's not much we can do to help Sumireko it seems. At least, for now. Maybe we can get to her again, but we have to stick to what Yukari said and keep training our powers in our world. We can probably check in with this new trick if we need to.
>Let's stay just until we have Sumireko back.
>Also again, we can't do much help, considering we're bad at flying and we (probably) don't have much energy left after coming here. Staying with Renko for longer is just gonna make it harder to leave again when it's time.>You have an internal moral debate about whether or not you should stay and help Sumireko, or do what Yukari told you to do.
>Not to mention what Yukari warned us about concerning our powers developing in Gensokyo. If she was so upset when we were here for a day, it could probably happen anytime, which isn't good.
>Hm... Try to text Renko something with our phone. Calling didn't work... We haven't tried it before, and if it succeeds, we'd have a way of communication in Gensokyo.
>Hm... Try to text Renko something with our phone. Calling didn't work... We haven't tried it before, and if it succeeds, we'd have a way of communication in Gensokyo.>You pull out your cellphone and text a quick "Hi" to Renko.
>Actually try calling 911 too, just for the hell of it.
>Apart from the fact that we already know our phone doesn't work in gensokyo (this was one of the first things we checked when we came <.<) what would you even say when 911 picked up :P>You consider dialing 911, but then realize how silly that would be, especially since you know your phone doesn't work here.
>Worth a try.>"Me too..." Renko agrees.
>"I hope Reisen can bring her back safely..."
>Turn to Dr. Eirin.>"No, not really." Eirin replies, "And please, I'd prefer being called either Dr. Yagokoro or just Eirin..."
>"Dr. Eirin, has there been any other odd events like that weird gust of wind lately ? The one that everyone seemed to notice ?"
>Quickly observe the hole.
>Before that. "May i call you Miss Eirin or just Eirin will suffice ?"
>We could probably do that as we're moving...>You speak as you move to inspect the hole.
>"I-Is Miss Mamizou still on Eientei ? Maybe she could help us or tell something that might aid us.">"She is. She's actually due to be discharged today."
>"M-Miss Eirin! Reisen needs help!">"Huh!?" Eirin looks out the hole just in time to see Reisen disappear below the treeline, "Pardon me, I won't be long..."
>"C-Chen, we need help. Renko's sister is getting away. S-She'll be lost if we don't keep on her.">"What do you want me to do?" Chen asks.
//Don't parse this yet. Others might want>"Are you sure? I-I mean, you know she'll probably send you back the moment she knows about you, right?" Chen frowns.to start their controllers up fortheir input on this.
>"Call Yukari..."
>"She promised to take care of Renko and Sumireko, so we should warn her and let her keep the promise, i'll go get Mamizou !">"Oh... Okay..."
>Do we have enough energy now ?>You have enough to open a tear or two in a visible boundary, but definitely not enough to pull off what you did earlier.
>Leave the room and head to the receptionist's area.
>Quickly make haste to Mamizou's room. I think we've been there before already.>You leave the room and head for room 108.
>Quickly head to the receptionist.>You head over to the lobby, the receptionist is still at the desk.
>"Excuse me, but could you please tell me where Miss Mamizou is? The patient from room 108?">"Ah, yes, she's due to be discharged today, however, she isn't confined to her room. She could be anywhere, I'm afraid." The receptionist replies.
>"What!? Where's the north entrance?">"I can take you there if you like." says the rabbit.
>Turn around.>You turn around and are faced with the sight of none other than Yukari Yakumo.
>"Can I explain, please?">"Sure, by all means, do so..." She opens a fan and sits on a gap, "I'm curious how you managed to get past the barrier without me noticing..."
>"I was doing as you told and practicing my abilities. But... I was worried about Renko and her sister... I was only dreaming about Gensokyo in order to find them, but I couldn't go around reliably, so I tried to think about Eientei, where they were last, and...">"Oh? So it appears you've discovered how to travel by gap..." Yukari looks down, "Hmm... Perhaps your brief exposure to Gensokyo accelerated things faster than I anticipated. It should've taken you at least a few months out there before you were able to reach that point. I guess I'll need to take some more precautions..." She looks you in the eye again, "Now about your dreaming... I find it surprising that you were able to do so, considering that you shouldn't even be able to dream about this place anymore..."
>"Precautions?">"Maribel." Yukari says sternly, "I do believe I previously mentioned that it would be best if your powers fully manifested in the outside world. So until then, it is critical that you don't come here, even more so since your previous visit seemed to have accelerated the growth of your powers so quickly. Trust me, this is for your own good..."
>Take on a look of betrayal.
>"Y-You mean you're trying to keep me away?"
>"I can't leave yet. Mamizou's woken up and she has a weapon for some reason, and Sumireko woke up too and she's flying off in a trance. You guaranteed that Renko and her sister would be safe.">"And I will follow up on that promise, but before I do, I need you to-"
>"Help Sumireko, and let her and Renko come with me. We'll be gone, and you won't have to worry.">"I wish I could allow both of them to come with you..." Yukari frowns "But Renko, of course, would have to stay behind until her fate is decided. However, if her sister is healthy then yes, I will allow her to return to the Outside World..."
>"We're staying together.">"Maribel... Please do not make this more difficult than it already is..."
>Frown.>Yukari gives you a frown of her own, "We'll see about that..."
>"I'm coming back if you send me away..."
>"I'm no youkai, i can't handle years of wait Lady Yukari, specially not like this..."
>"Not without Renko..."
>"Just let us go.">"Maribel, we've already talked about this... It's pointless for you to keep bringing it up. Renko must remain here until her fate is decided, and depending on the outcome, she may be returned to the outside world. But until then, I cannot allow her to leave."
>"I understand i have to go, but.... then at least give me some way to know how they're doing from time to time, gap me some letters, i dunno, it's just... how can i leave with everything happening ?">Yukari sighs, "Very well, if it makes you happy, I will allow her to write letters to you."
>Look down.>"Hey, look on the bright side." says Yukari "Assuming the judgement goes well, you'd be able to see Miss Usami again relatively soon. And if not, waiting a few years to return to Gensokyo won't take very long, provided you keep focusing on honing your powers, it should pass in the blink of an eye..."
>"You'll help Sumireko too, right?">"I do believe our initial agreement was for me to watch over both of them. So yes."
>"Can I have a moment to talk with Renko. I just need to tell her one thing. I'll be quick.">"Very well..."
>Call for Renko to come back.>You call Renko back into the room.
>Before Raf's>"O-Okay... But we'll get her back first, right?"
> "When Sumireko comes to, you should tell her about me. You should also tell her about what happened, but um, in private if you can."
>"I`ll have to go for sadly, this was already supposed to be a quick visit, but with Sumireko on that state...">You try to shake off your worries, it doesn't help much.
>Shake away our worries.
>"A-Anyways, it will probably a while ever since i come back, so please take care, i don`t know what would i do without you...>Tears begin to form in Renko's eyes as you embrace and kiss her.
>Hug her and kiss her.
>"I love you Renko."
>"Yukari said she'll help Sumireko, and that you could write letters to me while I'm gone... I-I have to go now...">"O-Oh... Okay..." Renko frowns.
>"I'll miss you...">"I-I'll miss you too..." Tears roll down her cheeks... "I-Its so much harder saying goodbye a second time... A-Actually... I don't think I got a chance to say goodbye the first time..."
>"I-I'll come back as soon as Yukari allows me. I'll try really hard!">"O-Okay..."
>Close our eyes for a few seconds.>You close your eyes.
>"Okay Yukari. I'm r-... r-ready..."
>Get up and sigh.>You start walking home, but you quickly get a strange feeling that something is watching you.
>"Be safe, all of you...."
>Let`s walk home, we`re pretty much done here.
>Look around.>You look around for a moment.>Feeling of being watched. (https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=https%3A%2F%2Fres.cloudinary.com%2Fteepublic%2Fimage%2Fprivate%2Fs--rI0YiriA--%2Ft_Preview%2Fb_rgb%3A36538b%2Cc_limit%2Cf_jpg%2Ch_630%2Cq_90%2Cw_630%2Fv1451083923%2Fproduction%2Fdesigns%2F381393_1.jpg&imgrefurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.teepublic.com%2Fshow%2F381393-undertale-temmie&docid=EUQTxRMnILUwEM&tbnid=ws_GXMWd2qUaqM%3A&w=630&h=630&bih=675&biw=1304&ved=0ahUKEwiu_oHv3KDNAhUJKFIKHZKSB20QMwgfKAEwAQ&iact=mrc&uact=8)
>"I couldn't really do anything...">You begin moving, but stop as YuugenMagan's eyes materialize in front of you.
>Continue on.
>"...was Sumireko`s outburst a consequence of Uriel`s doings to her ?"
>We shouldn't question these sort of things unless we know who we're talking to.>You were about to ask a question, but you stop yourself from doing so.
>"Oh it`s you, huh...">"Oh I don't know. If I were in your position, I would've tried to be a bit more persuasive... Hmm, but the more I think about it she probably would've forced you out here anyway... But still, separating you from the one you care about? It hardly seems fair at all..."
>Look a bit down.
>"What do you think i could have done anyways ?"
>"I know, but Renko has to face trial over her assault at Miss Reimu, still, i don`t know why does Lady Yukari want me to develop my powers here.... what are her goals exactly anyways ?">"I'm not sure. I've never really interacted with that woman." YuugenMagan replies, "Maybe it's familial- Wait. You two are related, right? Forgive me if I'm wrong."
>"I... She's already very upset with me...A-And she promised to keep Renko and her sister safe.">"Hmm... Yet if your friend is facing trial, is she really safe?"
>"What? What do you mean we're related?">"Oh, so you're not... Sorry... I just assumed you were, since I noticed the two of you seem to have a resemblance to each other... Well, I guess I was mistaken."
>"S-She does have the same powers as i do, and i do look a lot like her.... i even never saw my mother as a kid...">"Hmm, well that's rather interesting... Maybe I'm right... Have you ever considered asking her?"
>"I did, but.... she just left it in the air, neither denied nor confirmed..."
>"...She said maybe...">"Hmm... Interesting..." Yuugenmagan muses.
>Look down.>"Hey come on, don't look so down in the dumps..."
>"If Yukari is my mother, then that means she left me for all this time. Not to mention she doesn't seem to like Renko at all. A-And she doesn't even want to confirm it.">"Well, maybe she has her reasons... "
>"T-They'll go easy on Renko, right?">"I'm not sure, to be honest..."
>"But she only... ... Uaaah">"Hey, don't be like that... I bet you could find a way to guarantee her safety if you put your mind to it."
>"Hey... you did say someone in Eientei caught your attention... was that Renko or Sumireko ?">"It was whoever broke through the back wall and flew into the distance, whoever that was... I actually moved closer to investigate, and then I witnessed that little moment you had."
>"Mamizou... I hope she doesn't try anything bad... ... Why did things have to go so wrong? I-It was just the first time we've actually been there. A-And a-all of t-this...">"Mamizou? Oh, no no no..." YuugenMagan chuckles, "I have no interest in the Tanooki... I meant the human. And as for why things went so wrong... Perhaps it was just a bad day... Or maybe it was fate... I'm just not sure, and it's not my place to answer."
>"Oh, right, Sumireko. That was yet another thing that went badly...">"Hey, no need to beat yourself up over it, you just have to keep moving forward, right?" she pauses, "So, exactly what was wrong with her?"
>"We have yet to know, she had just woken up from a light coma, but she seemed to be in a great pain, and couldn`t hear any of us.">"I'm interested because I sensed an odd energy from her..."
>Give her a curious look.
>"Say, why do you have such an interest on Sumireko ? I mean, you said that you just explore and go around if i`m not wrong."
>"It's like she's in a trance or being controlled or something. And I have been trying to move forward every time something happened, and it's just not enough to keep up with it.">"I see..."
>"Renko can't get the death penalty. Yukari knows she's close to me, so she'd lessen it if it got to that, r-right? It makes sense...">"I guess it does."
>"I don`t think i could live without her if that happened.... a-and besides, Sumireko was spared, why not her ?"
>"A-And what Sumireko did was much bigger than Renko's.">"Oh? And what did she do, if your don't mind me asking?"
>"S-Something... sorta big..."
>"They said she caused an incident where she abducted several people from Gensokyo i think.">"Hmm... Why do I have the feeling this isn't the whole picture..." Yuugenmagan's eyes narrow.
>"I do remember it was something about a study that then scaled up to almost result in the destruction of the barrier...">"Oh, is that so? Hmm... It's interesting how they would spare the life of someone who nearly destroyed their precious barrier... I mean, if that goes down, the lives of everyone within will change forever, and some will even be jeopardized by it..."
>"I dunno....">"Oh, that's easy. I slipped through the hole you fell through before it closed. It's easy to move unnoticed when you lack a fully corporeal form..."
>Look at her.
>"How did you even get here ? Shouldn`t the barrier keep you inside ?"
>"Why'd you follow me? Are you trying to help?">"Perhaps..."
>"Unless you know of a way to help Sumireko, then i don` t think you can...">"Well, actually, I might have a way... If you can get me close enough to her, then I might be able to find out what's going on with her... And perhaps pinpoint that foreign energy as well..."
>"Well, first, we would have to go back without Lady Yukari noticing, second, how will we get close to Sumireko without her attacking us ? I saw her hitting Reisen with thrown furniture, and knocking the latter out of the sky...."
>"But I'm not even sure I can get to her without Yukari noticing. Let alone get to Gensokyo in general now that Yukari wants to keep me away more...">"Well, what would make Miss Yukari notice you? If we knew the specifics, we might be able to find a way back without her noticing. As for getting close to her... Hmm, maybe we can find someone close to her, either in there or out here... Perhaps someone like that may be able to stall or distract her long enough... Or, of course, we can save the elaborate planning and just knock her unconscious... It's up to you."
>Look down.
>"Why doesn't she just help me herself... It'd be nice to be on good terms with her.">"I honestly don't know why..."
>"There also another issue, i can`t fly... well i mean, the best i can do is hover for a bit, and we`ll need to fly in order to find Sumireko.">"Hmm... That does seem to be an issue... Perhaps we won't need to fly... Hopefully, we may be able to catch her on the ground... And if not, then I'm sure you can practice while we search."
>"And it takes a lot of energy to get there. Yukari probably did something to stop me further by now...">"I see... Well, fortunately for you, energy just so happens to be my specialty..."
>"But then.... what if we`re spotted ? I can`t run away from anyone there, and i can only defend myself against mischieving fairies."
>"And if Yukari finds out...">"I will personally handle any aggressors..." Says YuugenMagan, "And Yukari won't find out unless we let her. As long as we move carefully, we should be fine."
>"...She said she'd save Sumireko...I want to know if she actually will do so before we try anything...">"Okay then, then why don't we observe once we find her then? To see if Yukari is indeed doing something."
>"If we found Sumireko fast enough and Yukari didn't seem to be around, maybe... or if maybe if I could disguise myself somehow? Could you help with that somehow? The biggest thing is Yukari should be trying to handle Sumireko herself, which would be a problem if I can't let her spot me... but, um, I don't know if she actually IS going after Sumireko, or that she can do anything about her. It sounds like you have an idea, though.">"A disguise? Well I could certainly find you a new wardrobe, depending on the method we use to re-enter."
>"I could probably do something similar to what Yukari did just now...">"Alright, and will it cause her to notice you?"
>"I think..... ? I have no idea."
>Let's not say that. She had no idea last time we did it. Just because she knows doesn't necessarily mean she's even capable of noticing it... it's not like we're tearing a hole in the barrier of Gensokyo like the other time.
>Agreeing with Serela. We barely left, so maybe she hasn't thought up of something to counteract it...hopefully.>You decide not to say this.
>"...I'm not sure. She didn't notice before, although she knows I can do it now. I don't know if that makes any difference, though.">"Hmm... Do you think she would've developed a countermeasure by now?"
>"I...don't know if I want to find out..."
>"She is much more experienced on this area than me of course...">"I see... So what other methods can you use to get in without her noticing... Actually, what actions will definitely make her notice you?"
>We probably shouldn't mention doing stuff to the barrier...
>Or at least be vague about it :P
>"Hmmm, i think the most obvious one would be trying to get in like the first time... she did come see Miss Reimu when i came here for the first time doing so.">You ponder your options.
>Think a bit.
>We probably shouldn't mention doing stuff to the barrier...>You wonder whether or not you should trust YuugenMagan.
>Ponder if we can trust her. We don't know what she's planning, but maybe it could turn out like how Sariel wasn't that bad...?
>"I think trying to get into Gensokyo without the really draining technique would. And it'd still take a lot out of me either way...">"Ah, I see... Well, I can spot you extra energy if you need it. And if that fails, there are many ways to access Gensokyo... And I have a very specific way in mind that might also be beneficial to you."
>Or at least be vague about it :P
>"Could you explain it?"
>"Very specific way ?">"Well, it involves entering Gensokyo via Makai. It's a dangerous place, but being exposed to it's atmosphere, even briefly, could accelerate your power growth. Which I do believe was mentioned during that conversation you had with Yukari. Now despite the danger, you should be safe under my protection, and as a bonus, it will bypass the boundary entirely if we take this path. And we can pick up that wardrobe change I mentioned earlier while we're there as well..."
>"Makai ? Dangerous ? How are we even going to get there ?">"Well, I was hoping we could use the same way you took to enter Gensokyo. I mean, there are much longer ways...."
>Take on a mildly curious look.
>"And she did say i should develop my powers in this world, i dunno why though...."
>"Yukari warned me about my powers developing outside of here. And she seems to care deeply about it. Moreso than what I want...">"Well did she specifically refer to this world, or just outside of Gensokyo?" YuugenMagan asks.
>"She said the outside world, which is here.">"Are you sure?"
>"Well, I don't think the outside world referred to somewhere else I've been...">"So, does that mean you're willing to go if it comes down to it?"
>"If Renko's in danger and Yukari isn't helping...">"So that's a yes?"
>Nod.>"Alright then. Well, let's try your way first. And if that fails, we can try entering Makai. Unless, of course, you feel Makai is our only option."
//Edited>"Alright."
>"I guess I have to go. Since they probably won't understand what's with Sumireko..."
>"And the change of appearance will be beneficial... You'll keep me safe from anything that happens if we try to go through this Makai, right?">"Of course. Assuming we actually do go through there."
>"How does the place you want me to change at look? It won't be dangerous even there, will it?">"Well, there's no place in particular, you could get dressed in your disguise at any time, really. But we'll likely get you a change of clothes in the capital's market district. Unless of course you'd rather steal someone's clothes, if you're that kind of person... Anyway, the market district may or may not be dangerous. It all depends on the opinions individual people have about humans over there."
>"But i don`t really have any money... unless they accept the outside world currency, and even then, i don`t think i have any right now.">"Oh, don't worry about finances. I have a contact in Makai who's holding my funds for me. Getting some money would be as simple as finding her."
>Do we have any ?>You do not have any money on you today.
>"I guess we're taking the Makai option then ? How will we get there anyway ?">"Well I was hoping to use whatever method you used to enter Gensokyo. Of course, if you can't do so, then we'd have to find a place with ambient magic and perform a ritual."
>"Could you tell me how the market district looks? Be specific.">"Why tell you when I could show you?"
>Erm, do we seriously want to jump right into going through Makai before even trying to go into Gensokyo directly? Yuugenmagen directly said being there even for a little bit would affect our powers, which sounds like the exact kind of thing Yukari has been saying we need to avoid.>You wonder if this is a good idea...
>"And the change of appearance will be beneficial... You'll keep me safe from anything that happens if we try to go through this Makai, right?">We still need to not be recognizable by Yukari. We just left, so she might not expect us to come back immediately.
>We still need to not be recognizable by Yukari. We just left, so she might not expect us to come back immediately.>Being unrecognizable to someone at first glance, especially Yukari, would be quite beneficial, considering your situation.
>"Um, about needing energy to do it...">"Ah yes, just stand still and I will take care of it."
>Make many meticulously malicious movements Maribel!
>Try to keep still.>You stand still. YuugenMagan ceases to project the image and has her eyes arrange themselves around you.
>"Okay, I think I can do it now.">"Alright then."
>Imagine the area YuugenMagan showed us. The irregular red sky. The ground near the old building...>You picture the image YuugenMagan projected, recalling as much details as possible.
>"Alright, let's see if it works...">You create a tear in the boundary with almost no effort. This tear is big enough to walk through, however, it doesn't feel like it's draining you. In fact, it feels like you could keep it open forever if you wanted...
>Carefully make an gap on this boundary and project it in the real world.
>"Should we get started?">"Of course."
>"...Is there more to that 'odd energy' thing you mentioned about Sumireko?">"I'd have to have a closer look to be sure."
>"Actually... why didn't you go into Sumireko's room before ? You could have easily went inside the mansion before me or even when i went inside, then you would have been able to see what was wrong with her.">"Well, I was merely waiting to see if the odd energy would dissipate, and apparently it did not. Besides, I can't really examine someone that's unconscious."
>Nod.>The tear is already large enough to walk through, but you widen it anyway.
>Try to make the tear larger and more stable.
>"Do you understand how Yukari makes her gaps YuugenMagan?">"I do not. Sorry."
>Let's shrink the tear down until it's big enough to walk through.>You shrink down the tear to its previous size, the edges become less chaotic.
>Wouldn't want to lose a limb or get killed in a horrible rift/void/tear-related accident or whatever. (https://youtu.be/rNFpNlyxvBk?t=10m29s)
>Try to round out the edges somewhat.>You focus on smoothing the edges.
>"Er, I'm sorry for stalling...">"It's fine."
>Walk through the tear.
>Close the tear.>You allow the tear to close.
>"Let's hurry. It's a bit tough to breathe in this place...">"Ah yes, I should've warned you about the miasma. Most of Makai's atmosphere is this stuff. It's toxic in dense concentrations, but it's also saturated in magic, which is why this dimension is so popular with magicians... Exposure to the miasma for prolonged periods has been known to assist greatly in the development of one's magic. Now, this is actually a pretty sparse concentration where we are now, believe it or not, so you should be fine. And after a minute your body will adapt to breathing it. And it should stay that way unless we move into one of those dense, toxic pockets. Though there should be none on our route."
>Follow YuugenMagan.>You follow YuugenMagan into the ruins.
>"I'm tired of all of this...">"Hmm?"
>"Things have been going so badly. And good things have happened in between, but they've been turned against me. If this is really fate, then it's sick and twisted.">"Well, fate can be a cruel mistress... But I refuse to believe that it's set in stone... Sure, it can be sick and twisted at times, but eventually we must learn to tame and master it..."
>"That's easy for you to say...">"Stop." says YuugenMagan as you reach the center of the courtyard. "She should be around here somewhere. In fact, she probably already knows we're here. Keep an eye out for her."
>Stop and look around for anything that moves other than YuugenMagan.>You begin looking around.
>Keep our eyes on the pillar. Give a confused face.>The girl peeks out from behind it yet again, but retreats as soon as she sees you.
>Look to the side a bit, but make use of peripheral vision.>You avert your gaze, but keep the pillar in your peripheral vision.
>Carefully approach the pillar.>You cautiously approach the pillar.
>Wave slightly.>You give Elis a small wave.
>"Hi, I'm Maribel Hearn. Nice to meet you, Elis.">"Hi..." she looks between the two of you, "So.... is she-"
>>Pet Elis.
>Examine Elis.>Elis has long, blonde hair and pointed ears. A red bow is affixed to her hair. There is a red, star-shaped marking on her left cheek, and on her back is a set of purple bat wings. She's wearing a white shirt with a red skirt, as well as a purple vest.
>"So who are you Elis ? And how did you meet Miss Yuugen here ?">"Well... Around these parts I'm known as the 'Innocent Devil'... I honestly don't know why people call me that. I'm far from innocent... Anyway, YuugenMagan and I have a... history... with each other. It's complicated..."
>Pet her some more. "I can't, you look cute when i pet you !
>"Hm? What was that, Elis?">"What was what?" Elis replies.
>"'Dawww..."
>Look at her with a smile.>"Yes... I guess it was a nice thing to do..."
>"Aww... that so nice of you Elis...."
>"Hmm... Why do I have a feeling this isn't the whole picture?">"What do you mean?" YuugenMagan asks, "Surely we've told you enough to satisfy your curiosity. Anyway, Elis, the money..."
>>Yea you are !
>Follow.
>Follow !>You follow Elis up the stairwell and down an old corridor. YuugenMagan is behind both of you.
>Take a quick look back at YuugenMagan.>You look over your shoulder.
>Return our view forwards.>"Having a bad day, I take it?" Elis asks as you keep walking.
>"I hope at least this goes well..."
>"You wouldn't believe it.">"Ah... Well then, I hope things turn out better for you."
>"You're not uncomfortable with me here, are you?">"O-Oh no! I'm not uncomfortable with you at all... I'm sorry if it seemed that way." she looks back and forth before leaning slightly closer to you, "My behavior earlier was ostlymay ecausebay ofay erhay..."
>Look at her with curiosity.>"I-It's not important... Besides, this isn't really a good place to talk about it..." Elis whispers back as you pass through the archway, entering a small room with a makeshift bed on the floor and a few chests, "We're here." she says as she heads over to the wall near the bed.
>"What do you mean, exactly?
>Now that we're in a place where we can see them, examine Elis's chests.>The chests are wooden, and seem to be latched with a lock.
>"Will the marketplace have thicker air, YuugenMagan?">"No. I already said there won't be any dense miasma pockets on our route, provided you don't get lost. Though, I find that quite unlikely to happen."
>"You don't want to come?">"Well yes, I'd rather not..." Elis replies, "But I will if I have to..."
>"Okay. I won't make you...">"Alright."
>Approach Elis.>You approach Elis, and she hands you the pouch. It seems to be resonating with some kind of energy.
>"Thank you very much...">"Don't mention it..."
>Nod>"Alright then." One of the eyes looks at Elis, "Thank you, Elis."
>"If you don't mind me asking...">"Like I said, I-It's not important..." Elis replies, "Besides... It would be rude to keep her waiting..."
>"Well, all right then."
>"Take care.">"Bye."
>To the market!>You leave the room an catch up to YuugenMagan at the stairwell. She begins to descend.
>Leave the room and follow YuugenMagan.
>Follow.>"No, Yakumo tends to stay out of Makai. You shouldn't worry about her finding you here." YuugenMagan replies as she leads you back into the courtyard.
>"...Does Yukari frequent this place? Would she be able to tell I'm here?"
>"So Renko won't know where I am either...">"Indeed."
>Continue following YuugenMagan.
>Walk towards the city.>You continue following.
>"Will people attack me here ? Like the fairies and some youkai in Gensokyo ? Also, which people live down here anyways ?">"Why, demons, of course. Though not all of them are hostile, and most of the more tolerant ones live in the capital."
>"I hope Sumireko hasn't gotten into too much trouble...">"I'm sure she hasn't done anything horrible in the short time we've been gone..."
>"Yea...">YuugenMagan continues to lead you toward the city. It'll be a while before you reach it.
>"Are you from here YuugenMagan?">"Despite what you may think, no. I'm actually not native here. I came here from Gensokyo a very, very long time ago... Back before that barrier went up, actually. As a matter of fact, I didn't make my return to Gensokyo until recent years."
>"Huh... What did you experience recently? I didn't get to ask much people in Gensokyo.">"I mostly kept a low profile and observed, to be honest. I didn't really get directly involved in much beyond that. Well, until today."
>"Oh... Was that just because of Sumireko?">"Well, it was mostly because of the energy, but I suppose so."
>"What's so special about it anyways?">"Well, wouldn't you be curious about something unusual if you saw it?"
>"Yea, but a few unusual things already happened before that...">"So?"
>"So why didn't you take a look at those ? Like the black wind that grabbed everyone's attention back then when i first came in Gensokyo.">"Oh, I did see that wind, it didn't really cause anything else as far as I know. Besides, I found the energy I sensed in Sumireko to be much more interesting."
>"Do you have an idea about that kind of energy ? Anything ?">"All I know is that it's foreign to Gensokyo, and it doesn't look like anything I've seen here in Makai."
>Frown.>"Perhaps. All the more reason to find her then."
>"That probably means it's something bad for Sumireko then..."
>Nod.>"It shouldn't be too hard..."
>"I hope it's not too hard to handle..."
>"But what do we do if we actually manage to get to Sumireko?">"Well, just get me close enough, and I can analyze the energy in her. Once I do that, we can figure out what to do then."
>"So we either trap her somehow, or get to her and bail afterwards?">"Or we could use a diversion, but you get the point."
>"A diversion? Do you have something in mind?">"What I meant was just draw her attention long enough for me to get close enough, of course those other strategies work too."
>Sigh and continue following YuugenMagan.>You continue following YuugenMagan.
>"How much further?">"Just a couple of blocks." YuugenMagan replies.
>Examine the citizens.>The citizens range from looking mostly human, to more devil-like in appearance. Some of them appear dressed in robes or similar garments.
>Turn towards Yuugen.>"No, I do not. I'm sure she'll leave you alone if you ignore her."
>"Um, do you know who that blonde woman with the sun hat is ? I seem to have caught her attention."
>Examine the woman.>She has short, blonde hair and is wearing a purple and white dress, in addition to a white sun hat, she continues to give you that curious look.
>Keep walking.>You continue walking.
>Assume true form as Hahruhi Suzumiya and declare what we're looking for.
>Pet YuugenMagan.
>"Are we almost there?">"We have arrived. There should be a clothing shop somewhere around here."
>Look around for such a shop, but keep up with YgMg.>You look around at all the storefronts.
>"Is there anything else I should know about you?">"No, not really." YuugenMagan replies.
>Keep looking for a clothing shop.>You keep looking. You have no luck yet, but you do catch that woman out of the corner of your eye again.
>"Hey, what could you tell me about the human village ? I couldn't see much of it.">"I'm not exactly the best person to ask. I don't make a habit of going there."
>"Then... how about that forest of magic as they call ? Could you tell me about it ?">"Well, a couple of magicians live there. Actually, I've heard rumors that one of them actually used to live here in Makai. Aside from that, there are tons of fungi that grow there, each with a unique effect. The area is also full of ambient magic, it's not up to Makai levels, but it's still a pretty high concentration."
>Keep an eye for the store, while taking glance at our mysterious person every once in a while.>You keep looking around, and glance at your follower occasionally.
>"Do you mean Alice and her friend Marisa ? One of them lived here ?">You continue looking.
>Keep on with the looking.
>"Oh !">You look at the third building on the left, the sign seems to be written in some kind of odd language, but you think it's what YuugenMagan is talking about.
>Look towards where she told us to, then have another glance to find out if the girl is still following us.
>"So that's it? What's it say?">"Does the name really matter? It's a clothing shop, that's it, really..."
>Try to tell YuugenMagan discreetly, "I think we're being followed.">"Are we?"
>"They don't seem to be bothering us...">"Hmm... Well, I'll keep an eye on them."
>Continue with YuugenMagan.>You continue with YuugenMagan and enter the clothing shop.
>"That girl looks really familiar.">"Hmm? Do I?" The girl suddenly turns towards you. It seems she was able to hear you.
>"Alice?">"Alice? Oh, no. I am not Alice... I am merely a record keeper... But, you know her?"
>"Oh, I'm sorry. You just looked a bit like her...">"Ah, so you do know her." The girl moves forward and grabs you by the wrist with a surprisingly strong grip, and begins to drag you in the direction of the door, "Come with me."
>"Eh!? Wait a second!">"My apologies, but you must come with me. Lady Shinki would likely be interested in having a word with you."
>"N-No! I can't go! I've got things I need to do right now!">"It will be really quick, I can assure you."
>How are we feeling?>You feel fine, of course you do have a child dragging you by the wrist right now.
>"What is this all about?">"Like I said, I am not Alice." Alice(?) says as she drags you off down the street, as she does so you notice the woman that was following you stopped outside the clothing store, looking on as you're dragged away, "I am merely a memory of Alice, a record, if you will, given form... Anyway, the real Alice actually used to be a resident here in Makai. And she was someone who was very close to our Lady, Shinki. Since you know her, I'm sure Our Lady will be very pleased to have a little chat with you, concerning her..."
>"I-I don't really know her that well. It's more like we've ran into each other a few times and had a few conversations. Please, I need to continue what I was doing.">"Well, I'm sure even a little information could be helpful. And you are free to continue once Lady Shinki is done with you."
>"I'd like to help another time, but I really have to go. I-It's an emergency.">"Did I not say this will be quick?" she says as she pulls you into the middle of a plaza.
>"You don't understand..."
>Let's just be quiet. It's very clear by that lightning at Yuugenmagan she's simply not going to compromise here >.> We may as well get it over as quickly and painlessly as possible. She said it'd be quick, at least...>You decide not to continue the argument further, as it will likely get you nowhere.
>>Pet Little Alice memory.
>Miss Alice was so cute as a kid.>Despite what's happening, you do think this memory of Alice is pretty adorable...
>Keep walking...>Not-Alice is no longer dragging you, in fact, you are both standing in the middle of the magic circle.
>Examine Alice Memory.>She looks just like Alice, except much younger. Instead of the blue dress with a white shawl, she is instead wearing white shirt with a sky-blue skirt. Instead of a red headband, she has a blue ribbon in her hair.
>"Alright..... i guess there's not really a choice, so then, why did Miss Alice leave Makai ?">"From what I understand, there was a bit of a disagreement between Alice and Lady Shinki, which prompted her to leave..."
>"That's sad to hear, at least your Lady Shinki will be glad to hear Miss Alice is faring well, along with Miss Marisa if i'm not wrong.">"She would indeed..." Not-Alice replies, "...Who's Marisa?"
>Follow her lead.>Not-Alice begins to drag you towards the entrance of the fortress,
>"Oh... she's a magician Alice is friends with, I think! I've seen them together multiple times.">"Oh, I see..."
>"Might I ask why this Shinki person is so interested with Alice, or who she is?">"Lady Shinki is the goddess and ruler of Makai. She is also Alice's mother..."
>"Oh... So that's who they were talking about...">"Oh, so they were talking about her? I'm sure Lady Shinki would be pleased to know Alice hasn't forgotten about her..."
>"O-Ohh ! Um, well, this is kinda uh... making me nervous, meeting the ruler of this place all of a sudden, what is she like ?">"You'll find out when you meet her." The two of you begin to pass the woman, "Oh, good afternoon, Yumeko."
>"I kinda know her, she is a nice person, and she also seems to be doing well in Gensokyo.">"Ah, well that's good to hear. I'm sure my mistress would like to know all about it." she smiles.
>"Right, because they're family...">"Anyway, speaking of Lady Shinki, it would be best if we didn't keep her waiting." says Not-Alice.
>You know, considering that Shinki has a memory... construct thing/person of Alice around... That could be a sign the she misses Alice... Almost a bit too much...
>Well, she IS Alice`s mother, and Alice left right after a fight, so it`s not really strange that she misses her daughter that much, especially since both haven`t even talked or seen or heard about each other ever since.>You take a moment to ponder the implications of Not-Alice's existence. You come to the conclusion that this "Shinki" must really miss Alice...
>"Yea...">You allow Not-Alice to continue dragging you. Eventually she pulls you into some kind of throne room.
>Follow the girl.
>"Well eh, my name is Maribel Hearn, an human from the outside world, and i met Miss Alice while i was visiting Gensokyo.">"Oh, well nice to meet you Maribel, I am Shinki, creator of Makai." she gives you a courteous bow, "...So, is Alice doing well? D-Did she ever mention me at all, by chance?"
>"She is and she did. She said a few... hurtful things about you, but after I mentioned... u-um....... A-Anyways, she said she'd be willing to give you a chance, and that you might have c-changed...">"Oh, so she's still upset with me I see..." Shinki frowns, "And she really would be willing to give me a chance? I-I find that doubtful... If she wanted to talk to me, she'd probably come here in person to do it. Heh... I'm actually surprised she hasn't forgotten about me after all these years... But if what you're saying is right, then she is correct that I have changed. I've seen the error of my ways, however, it took losing her for me to come to that realization..."
>"She mentioned having other things to worry about, so she couldn't do anything then, which was a couple of days ago. I also think she was upset that you didn't care for what she wanted, and that you didn't try to take her back to here...">"Well, the only reason I didn't try to take her back because I thought she would come back on her own accord... I... I didn't want to make it worse by forcing her back here..."
>"...Excuse me, but could I ask you a few questions?">"Oh? Sure, go ahead."
>"Do you know Yukari Yakumo, and if she has any relatives?">"Yakumo? Why yes, I am acquainted with her, but we tend to stay out of each other's affairs. As such, I do not know if she has any relatives. My apologies."
>"Oh... T-Thank you anyways, miss Shinki... Um, if I run into Alice again, do you want me to tell her anything?">"Well, I doubt there would be anything I could say that would change her mind about me... So at the moment, no."
>"Okay... It that all? Can I go?">"Well, it seems I have nothing more to talk about, so yes, you may."
>"I`m on a pretty important task and all, and i did leave a friend behind since the Memory of Miss Alice dragged me here and stopped her from getting me back.">"Oh? She forced you to come here? How impolite of her..." Shinki frowns, "I should give her a talking to later..."
>Fidget a bit, with a slight smile.>Shinki sadly nods, "Yes... She was an adorable child... I wonder how much she's grown..."
>"....Miss Alice was pretty cute as a kid in the past from what i could see."
>"I'd like to tell you more about her now, but I have to go. Um, How do I get back to where I was?">"I could take you there personally if you like, one of the perks of being the goddess of Makai is that I can be anywhere I want to be in this realm."
>"Oh, could you please do so. It was this clothing shop.">"Which one was it? We actually have a few of them in the capital's market district." Shinki replies, "Why were you in a clothing shop, if you don't mind me asking? You're foreign here, so it would be impractical to be buying clothes for home here, nor do your current clothes appear damaged... Were you looking for some souvenirs?"
>"It`s that i kinda need to get changed, it`s complicated.">"Oh?"
>"Um, Ali- uh, the person that took me to you, was at it before me. Does that help tell which one it is?">"Well, she could've been at any one of them. I didn't specifically send her to one. She was out conducting a survey, you see..."
>"A survey? On what?">"Well, every once in a while I like to get the opinion of the residents of Makai, to see if anything needs to be changed, you know?"
>"Oh.">You do.
>Do we have enough energy to make a tear, since we feel well?
>"Oh. Can you tell that Alice-like person to take me back there then. She took me from there, so she might be able to tell which one it was. A-Also she should apologize for hurting the person I was with before.">"Well, if we can find her, then I certainly could. She may have left Pandaemonium already... I could also have Yumeko escort you back to the market, or I could take you there myself as well."
>"Either would be fine. I just really need to get back soon. I'm wasting too much time...">"Alright then, if time is of the essence, then we'll take the quickest way there."
>Nod, then hold her hand.>There is a red flash, and suddenly you find yourself at the plaza in the market that Not-Alice dragged you to.
>Look around for the clothing shop with the words, or for YuugenMagan.>You begin walking in the opposite direction of where you were dragged earlier, looking around for the clothing shop or YuugenMagan.
>"Ah, here. Thanks for taking me back miss Shinki.">"Your welcome. Now, since she likely isn't around, I should probably apologize to your friend on my creation's behalf... Now, where would your friend be?"
>Point to YuugenMagan.>"Her?" Shinki looks at you, raising an eyebrow, "Are you sure?"
>"Her."
>"Yes. YuugenMagan. She's helping me.">"Huh... I didn't really expect that youkai to have any friends..."
>"Huh... I didn't really expect that youkai to have any friends...">Give her a look.
>_
>Give her a look.
>"That's...Not very nice of you to say..."
>"Why would you expect that?">"Well, I know of that youkai. From what I recall, when she first came to Makai, it was because she was banished here for some reason. - If you ever run into my record keeper again, she might be able to tell you more. - Anyway, foreigners sent here via banishment or exile usually don't tend to make friends here... Though, it's not always the case, so sorry if what I said sounded a bit impolite..."
>Head towards YuugenMagan.>You head towards YuugenMagan, and her eyes seem to widen in surprise as you approach.
>"I-I'm back. Are you alright? T-That sounded painful back then...">"I'm fine... Thank you." YuugenMagan replies, "I'm guessing whatever that girl wanted went well?"
>Nod.>"Them?" Shinki raises an eyebrow.
>"Yes. It was nice to meet Ms. Shinki, but the more time I lose, the higher the chance of something worse happening to them..."
>"It's someone very, very important to me. In short, something bad's happening to both them and their sister, and I need to find a way to help, but so many things keep going wrong despite my efforts...">"Oh... Well, surely if you keep going, your efforts will pay off, right?" Shinki asks, "Are they here in Makai as well, by chance? Maybe I could help, if they are..."
>Frown and shake our head.>"Well, nothing is impossible if you put your mind to it... Though I guess that phrase has no meaning coming from a goddess..."
>"And I really hope so... It feels like I'm going against the world with these odds..."
>Put on a look of surprise.>"I'm Louise." She extends her hand, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss... erm..."
>"Oh ! Um, that`s very kind of you, thank you, may i have your name ?"
>"The name is Maribel, Maribel Hearn, a pleasure to meet you too Louise.">You shake Louise's hand, and she smiles.
>Greet her hand with ours.
>Curtsy at Shinki after shaking Louise's hand. She is a goddess, after all.>Shinki chuckles, "Yes, I suppose it is a great honor to meet me on such an occasion. Anyway, the pleasure's all mine, Maribel. Or do you prefer Miss Hearn?"
>"And it was a pleasure to meet you, as well. I never expected to meet the goddess of Makai on my short visit here..."
>"I'm a bit glad I could help too.">"Yes. It pleases me to know that my little girl is still doing well..." Shinki frowns slightly, "Even if she hates me..."
>"Uh, Maribel is fine. And, think on the bright side. Both of you are still okay.">"Yes, I suppose..."
>"I still need to put the clothes on before we go there...">"Well, there's a changing room in there. Or you could change behind a rock once we get to the gate... It's not like there will be anyone there besides us, after all..."
>"I think I'll choose the room...">"Very well. We'll wait out here for you, then."
>"Yes please. But I do need to get changed first. A-And return the money I had to someone.">"Very well, I'll wait here for you as well, then." Shinki smiles.
>Take the shopping bag and head inside.>You take the bag from Louise and head inside.
>"Would you kindly tell me where the changing room is?">"Certainly. It's right over there." He points towards a door on the back wall.
>"Thank you sir.">You head to the door and knock on it.
>Head to the door. Knock to see if anyone's inside already.
>Enter.>You enter the changing room and close the door behind you.
>>Requip!
>Examine the outfit Louise got for us.>You open the shopping bag and take out the outfit.
>This is really nice. It should do well to hide out identity.>You take a moment to admire the outfit before you remove your clothes and begin putting it on.
>Begin changing into the outfit.
>It's for Renko and Sumireko... We've gotta endure it. It's not the worst we could've gotten either.>Despite the slight discomfort, you will yourself to endure it. Besides, it's not like Louise got you something really small...
>Bag our previous outfit and head out.>You stuff you normal outfit in the shopping bag and leave the changing room. You then make your way out of the store.
>"W-Well, the shirt is a bit tight, but i guess it`s okay.">"Oh... Well sorry about that..."
>"Thanks for doing this in the first place... Um, Might I ask why you had been... um, following me earlier?">"You're welcome. And, well... You didn't look like you were from around here, I was going to approach you to ask you a question, but you were dragged away before I could. Anyway, YuugenMagan here already took care of it."
>"What question ?">"Well, I wanted to know it you were from Gensokyo, and if you were possibly here on a temporary visit. And if so, I wanted to know if you would allow me to come with you... Anyway, YuugenMagan already agreed to it, as payment for me purchasing those clothes for you."
>"I guess so... But I really need to get to helping my friends now.">"Yes, we should get going." says YuugenMagan, "We've spent enough time here."
>"After you Miss Yuugen.">"Actually, you said you'd take me up on my offer to bring you to the gate, correct?" Shinki chimes in.
>Follow !
>"Um, YuugenMagan, is it alright if we return to Elis for a second?">"Hmm? Why?" YuugenMagan questions.
>"Yes Shinki, but.">YuugenMagan laughs.
>Turn back to YgMg.
>"I wanted to return Elis's money, since I didn't use it."
>Check to see if we still have the money.>You search your satchel for the coin pouch and find it.
>"Oh... Do you want it back?">"You can hold on to it for now. I can't exactly grab it from you, you know?"
>Nod.>"Very well." Shinki replies holding out her hand, "Everyone, take my hand."
>"Okay, I think we're ready Ms. Shinki."
>Do as everyone else is doing.>You take Shinki's hand.
>Examine pink haired girl>She has short, pink hair, or perhaps a very light purple, and has a red and white dress. She still seems to be sleeping.
>"Who's this?" In a low voice.>"Oh, that's just Sara." Louise answers, "She's the Gatekeeper of Makai."
>Remember to keep our voice low, of course.>You remember to lower your voice before speaking.
>"Is there something wrong Ms. Shinki?">"No. Nothing's wrong." Shinki stops in front of the girl.
>"Why is she sleeping?">"It's probably a very boring job all the way out here." Louise remarks.
>>Gasp! "She touched the butt..."
>"I guess you're right...">"Rise and shine." Shinki says in a low voice.
>"Um, thank you.">Sara doesn't seem to hear you, as she touches the door.
>"So we gotta find out where she is after this...">"Well, she couldn't have left Gensokyo, so it shouldn't be too difficult." YuugenMagan replies.
>Frown a bit.>"Well, we won't know anything if we don't start looking for them..."
>"But something still could've happened to them..."
>Nod.>"Well, where do you think the first place your friend will go will be?"
>"Where do we start when she gets the door open?"
>"...Renko might be staying at Eientei still, but I don't know Sumireko much... If I had to guess, maybe the Hakurei Shrine. She might be trying something if she is there.">"Alright. We'll start there, then."
>"Should we get going?">"Of course." YuugenMagan's human silhouette nods.
>"Thank you Ms. Shinki. It was a pleasure to meet you.">"It was a pleasure to meet you too, Maribel." Shinki smiles.
>Start towards the door.>You head towards the door. YuugenMagan and Louise follow you.
>Continue on.>"Why, yes. You see, many years ago, a travel agency outside of Lady Shinki's jurisdiction opened up this gate and arranged for tours of Gensokyo, allowing us demons to pass though. I was curious, so I started to head through to see the world on the other side, but as I was passing through this corridor I was brutally attacked by four people from Gensokyo, who apparently thought the tourism was an invasion force... Afterwards, I spent a few months recovering, and, well, I still desired to make this trip, but I didn't want a repeat of history by going through unescorted... But alas, the tourism craze had died down at that point, and very few people expressed an interest in going. So I started asking foreigners that were visiting, hoping that at least one group was from Gensokyo and was willing to take me with them. And then today I met you..."
>"You were attacked?"
>"Oh... I thought you just wanted to see the place by yourself. In that case, I'll try to stay with you, and I hope my problem doesn't get in your way Ms. Louise.">"Oh, there's no need to stay with me. I'm perfectly capable of looking after myself once we're out of Makai. It was just this corridor and the area just outside of the gate that I would like to be escorted through, just in case anyone on the other side decides to come through and gets the wrong idea..."
>"Oh. Okay.">You are almost at the other side of the corridor.
>Keep a lookout for anything irregular.>You stay on your guard as the three of you exit the door. You find yourself in the same cave you and Renko were in a few days ago.
>Check to see if YuugenMagan and Louise made it.>You look to your sides.
>"Okay..."
>"Should we start searching YuugenMagan? The Hakurei Shrine is nearby, I think.">"Of course." YuugenMagan replies, "Lead the way."
>"Hope to see you again." Wave back to Louise, before starting to walk to where we believe the Hakurei Shrine is.>"You take care." Louise waves back as you walk away.
>Keep our eyes out for anyone flying.>You keep your eyes on the sky as you walk down the road. You do not see anyone flying.
>Nod and do so.>You don your hood.
>"I just hope I don't look suspicious.">"You don't. I'm five disembodied floating eyeballs, and do I look suspicious? You're going to be fine." YuugenMagan replies.
>Continue onwards.>You continue onwards along the road. Soon, the Hakurei Shrine is in sight.
>Look towards where the border should be, seeing if we can find anyone in sight.>You look towards the border.
>"I don't think she' around... Let's try near the forest.">"Very well."
>Start heading towards the village, or the bamboo forest if we can tell where it is from here.>You remember where both of these are. They are about the same distance from the shrine, but are in opposite directions. Which will you choose?
>The forest. Maybe Yukari stopped Sumireko already...>You begin walking towards the shrine steps, intent on heading to the bamboo forest.
>Continue. Don't look back to her.>You continue onwards and begin to descend . You think you're in the clear.
>Keep going. It's unsafe to look back yet.>You keep descending. You think you're out of Ran's line of sight now.
>Look for the source of the crying. Make sure YgMg is with us.>You look around. You can't seem to find anyone. But the sound seems to get louder as you approach the bottom of the steps. You think you can hear some voices now.
>Continue and listen in.>You get closer, you can make out the voices no.
>Turn to YuugenMagan.>"Yes. I hear it."
>"Do you hear that?"
>"Hello ? Are you okay ? Do you need any help ?">"Y-Yes...." the crying voice replies.
>"Umm... i guess there`s no harm in going there to help ?">"I wouldn't, personally, but if you feel like helping them, go ahead..." says YuugenMagan.
>Move closer to the voices and put the hood down.>You put the hood down and move closer to the voices.
>"What`s wrong ? Are you hurt ?"
>Nod. "I'll try my best.">You get closer to the crying fairy.
>Examine the bucket further.
>"Have you tried twisting it while trying to take it off?">"No." Says the fairy in blue.
>"Right. It's good you didn't...">"That's not impor-"
>"How'd you get it on in the first place?"
>Look back to YuugenMagan. "Do you think you can help?">"She's a fairy. Just kill her and she'll respawn, perfectly fine..." says YuugenMagan
>"Killing is... Isn't the only way to get things done... Should we all try to pull it off of her?">"Well, we already tried that." Says the fairy in blue, "But with an extra pair of hands, it might work."
>"We can`t really break the bucket... it`s made of iron probably, so a rock wouldn`t do much, it would hurt her if anything...">"See, I was right!" says the fairy in blue.
>Ponder a bit.
>"Huh....."
>Maybe try to use some water? Surely there must be a source nearby, get her head slippery enough to slide it off...
>Of course, one must also be careful not to drown the poor lass in the process.
>Well, first off, let's try to pull it off like they've been saying. It really might just be that simple.>You ponder your options.
>"Okay, let's all try to pull it off her at once.">The fairies nod as you firmly grasp the bucket in your hands. The red and white fairy flies ahead of you and grabs on to the bucket fairy.
>FIRMLY GRASP BUCKET
>"I guess you could either grab the bucket, or the head. Just make sure to try and get one off of the other.">She nods, and grabs on to the bucket in the spots you aren't grabbing.
>"I-I don't want to be rude, but your wings are in the way...">"Oh, um... Sorry. But there wasn't really any other angle I could take. You're kinda taking up most of the room by the bucket..."
>"Well... yea... is everyone ready?">"Yep." Says the blue fairy.
>"Okay... Now!">The three of you pull with all your might, though it seems neither you nor the blue fairy can get enough leverage in your current positions.
>Attempt to pull the bucket off the fairy's head. Pray for positive results.
>Try to get a better position.>The place that would give you the most leverage would be directly in front of the bucket, but the fairy at your side makes it impossible to stand there without her having to re-position.
>"Hold on.">You stop pulling and push the blue fairy out of the way some, positioning you right in front of the bucket. She's still holding on to it, but seems to be in a spot where she would have even worse leverage now. She wouldn't be of much use if you started pulling now.
>Stop and reposition.
>"Sorry but, um, could you try pulling her out of the bucket, while we try to pull the bucket off? Maybe that will help.">"Oh... Okay..."
>Either way, try again.>You pull the bucket with all your might once more with the fairy's friends pull on her body. beating their wings to exert more force.
>Examine the bucket briefly, then where the fairy was. Did we do it!?>You examine the bucket. Turning it over in your hands
>Try to retrieve the cap.>You manage to fish out the wet cap with little difficulty.
>"We got it off though."
>"Just hold on. You're okay now.">The fairy slowly uncovers her face. There is a red mark halfway down her face where the bucket once was.
>Ask if you could take the bucket for later use. I mean, you never know when you could use a good bucket! Minus the hat inside, of course.>You ask if you could keep the bucket.
( Sorry for the sudden drop-in, I'm just enjoying this story so far. ^-^ )//Hey, no need to apologize. New players are always welcome :)
>Thank them happily for allowing you to take the bucket
>Smile.>"My face hurts a little still... But it's getting better I think..." Luna replies.
>"Thank you, so how do you feel... Luna, was it ? Are you hurt or anything ?"
>Remember why you're wandering, and ask if they saw someone flying around nearby with furniture in tow floating next to them(?)>You ask if they saw anything that fits that description.
EDIT:>Retrieve arms from bucket
>Perk up a bit.>"Umm... It was..." Luna starts spinning around with her finger in the air, eventually setting in a direction a little bit to the right of a large mountain in the distance, "That way! Towards that lake by that mansion! ...I think..." she points a bit farther right, "Or was it that way...? towards the Forest of Magic... Or maybe the sunflower place that way?" she moves her finger between the two directions she indicated, "Um... It was one of those three, I'm sure of it!"
>"Really ? Did you see where that person went towards ?"
>Thank her for the information, as it was useful for what you're currently doing.>You thank Luna.
>Ask them if they need any more help before you go, despite your companion's potential protests.>"Well, I would kinda like my hat back..." Luna stares at the wet cap in your hand.
>Pet cute fairies.
//ParuParu~>You walk up to Luna and start petting her on the head. She immediately pulls away.
>Pet Luna, then return her hat.
>Re-Incognito our self. (Equip hood.)>You set down the bucket and Luna's hat and don your hood before picking them up again.
>"Oh sorry, here ya go.">"Okay..." Luna cautiously approaches and takes her hat. She quickly places it atop her head.
>Return the cap to Luna.
>"So a lake near a mansion, a sunflower field or a magical forest ? I wonder where to go first.">"Well, you should probably save the sunflower field for last." says the blue fairy, "There's a scary lady that lives there..."
>You suggest to yourself that the most likely place would be SDM, as Incidents seem to be abound there. And last time we went to the sunflower field, we saw a fairy get oblooterated, so it only seems logical!
>I don't think we know about the SDM and it's incidents. But we do know of a maid in a mansion, so that's a possibility.
>There doesn't seem to be any reason Sumireko would want to go to a place like the sunflower field in the state she was. The only person we saw there wasMissmassacrethat fairy killing person. Not to mention a mansion seems like it'd have more people, and more people means more eyes to see if they saw Sumireko.
>Good point; mansion means people, people means mind-control!>You consider going to the mansion, due to the possibly large amount of people that could've possibly seen Sumireko there. You also doubt Sumireko would ever go to the sunflower field in her current state. But then again, you don't know much about her...
>"Some directions are better than no directions. We didn't have any other leads. And, sorry for that. I was just making sure you were okay.">"It's fine..." Luna replies.
>"They don`t really have a reason to lie do they ? And it doesn`t matter if they`re fairies or not, she said that she saw someone and that`s our best lead for now.">"Whatever..."
>You also reason that, to be honest, you still aren't very skilled in the ways of danmaku and such, so getting into a fight's mostly out of the question. And you can't exactly sneak around in a sunflower field.>After weighing it more, you are more convinced not to go to the sunflower field.
>"Let's get going.">"Lead the way." says YuugenMagan.
>Proposing the nickname: "Miss Four-Rainer" before we leave?
>"Call me 'Marin'," cause that sounds like a good nickname while you're in this outfit.
>Proposing the nickname: "Miss Four-Rainer" before we leave?
>That works too!>You consider using the alias "Marin", but you decide to go with "Miss Four-Rainer"
>Regardless, you head towards the mansion in question, friend in tow.>You walk in the first direction the fairy pointed. You have no idea how long it will take to get there.
>Attempt to fly a bit off the ground as we continue.>You levitate a bit as you walk. It's a little easier to stay stable in the air now. You also notice that you're a little faster than normal. You are floating at your average walking speed.
>Keep this up. We shouldn't change this until we've done it for a while and are comfortable with it.>You continue floating for a while.
>Continue onwards.>You keep going. You have a feeling it's going to be a while before you actually see the lake.
>"Do you know of a faster way to travel YuugenMagan?">"There's always flight... Or we could try that way we used to get into Makai."
>"I'm not that experienced with that way...">You increase your speed slightly.
>Try to fly faster.
>Go a bit slower until we're able to stay stable. When we are, then increase our speed a bit.>You decrease your velocity until you stop wobbling, and then increase it slightly.
>Increase speed very slightly.>You subtly increase your flight speed once again. There seems to be no loss of stability.
>Anything around of interest? (Look around)>You seem to be approaching another forest. You can see a small patch of yellow off in the distance to the right as well.
>Keep this speed for the moment.>"Honestly, it's relatively slow compared to most flying I've seen..."
>"It looks like I can go at a nice flying speed at least."
>"Well I'm fairly new to it. I'm sure you've seen things fly faster than the speed of sound.">"If that fairy is to believed, then yes."
>"The lake and mansion are still in this direction, right?"
> Slightly increase speed.>You increase your speed slightly. You are now as fast as a slow run.
>Keep it up.>You keep moving.
>"Here's to trusting...">You pick up the pace.
>Continue at a bit of a quicker speed.
>Slow it down a tad, and try to rise a bit higher.>You slow down to your previous speed, before attempting to speed up again.
>Keep a lookout for trees so we don't run into any.
//Whoops, should've worded it better. Meant to try and literally fly higher.>You stop flying and allow your feet to land on the ground, however, your momentum still wants to carry you forward.
>Let gravity take us and try to make the landing as safely as possible before we reach the tree.
>_
>Try to run down into a walk, keeping our arms forwards incase we bump into the tree or fall down.>You run down into a walk. Stopping seconds before you hit the tree.
>"Phew... I have to stick to walking...">"Well... You don't have to..." YuugenMagan remarks, "But do whatever is easiest for you, I guess..."
>Do we remember how the inside of the mansion looked back when we me that maid in our dream?>You think you can recall most of the details, of course that particular dream was a long time ago...
>Look around to see if anyone's nearby.>You look around.
>Carefully move away from the black sphere so we're not nearby nor within it's path. It might be danmaku.>You back away slightly, only to watch the sphere, or rather, something in the center of it, seem to smack directly against a tree with an audible thud.
>Continue observing the sphere, and keeping away.>The sphere moves to the right a bit, then keeps coming towards you, before bumping into a tree again.
>Continue to avoid the sphere and keep an eye on it.>The sphere moves to the side again, before lunging at high speed, only to smack directly into a third tree and fall to the ground.
>Examine the little girl.>She's wearing a black dress with white sleeves, and has short, blonde hair. Her hair has some kind of red ribbon or amulet tied in it.
>Declare her Renko and our daughter.
>Examine ribbon girl's inventory.
>Examine ribbon girl's underwear.
>Examine ribbon girl's stats.
>Somehow store newly acquired information in YgMg.
>"YuugenMagan, I think I'd like to try the other method, but I'd want another energy boost, if you don't mind.">YuugenMagan seems to be staring at the little girl curiously, one of her eyes locks on you, "Hmm, what was that?"
>Pet Little Girl.>You move over and pet the little girl on the head, she begins to stirr after a few seconds of petting.
>"Oh nothing, just a second.">You continue to pet the girl.
>Keep gentlp petting her.
>"Hey, um, you okay ? Can you hear me ?"
>Dump all EXP evenly into Relationship with Renko and Gap abilities.
>"I was asking if you could give me an energy boost, like earlier.">"Ah, certainly. Let me know when you're ready." she continues to study the ribbon girl.
>Look to YgMg.>One of the eyes meets your gaze.
>"Hm?"
>"Oh you`re awake ! You should be more careful while flying around, my name is Maribel, and who are you little Miss ?">"I'm Rumia..." She sits up, rubbing her head, "Ugh... What was I doing again?"
>"Oh, we could take you and buy something for you to eat somewhere.">"Huh? Really?"
>Pet her.>You give Rumia a pat on the head.
>"You are so cute.""As expected from 90 in cuteness."
//And that's YgMg's money, not ours!>"Aww..." Rumia pouts, before her stomach growls again.
>"Um, but not right now... I'm a bit busy."
>Describe Sumireko to her and ask if she's seen her.>You describe Sumireko
//Yuugen can`t spend it !>"Well, I like meat, and candy, and humans, and waffles, and eggs, and Mystia's food, and um..." her stomach growls again, "...Really anything good would be great right now..."
>"But still, what would you like to eat ? Seafood ? Vegetables ? Fruits ? Maybe some candies too ?"
//But we're just holding onto it for her.>"Very well."
>"I'm ready for the energy YuugenMagan."
//Let's just take her to the mansion with us and hope they have something for her to eat.
>"Follow me. I'll try to get you something to eat while I'm doing my business.">"Oh. Okay then... Where are you going?" Rumia asks.
>Try to think of the mansion interior we visited in our dreams before.>You think of the mansion interior, trying to recall as much details as possible.
>Open a tear in the mental image.>You open a tear and it manifests in front of you.
>"Come on.">"Is that safe?" Rumia seems hesitant to follow.
>Head into the tear.
>"It should get us to this one mansion.">"A mansion? Oh, I know a mansion. It's a big, red one! One of my friends lives there! And two of my other friends live near it... Are we going to that mansion?"
>Nod.>"O-Okay, I guess I'll come..."
>"Please decide. I can't do this forever."
>Enter the tear and wait for YuugenMagan and Rumia.>You enter the tear. YuugenMagan goes through with you, and Rumia follows shortly.
>Close the tear first.>You shut the tear and thank YuugenMagan.
>Give YuugenMagan a thanks.
>"If you have a friend here, you should be able to ask for something to eat, right?">Rumia nods, "I don't know where she is right now though... And I think I'd have to ask the Miss Sakuya for food... but... Don't tell her I said this, but I think she's kinda scary..."
>Turn around and back up a bit.>You turn around to see a grey haired woman in a maid outfit. She currently has an eyebrow raised, and has quite a serious demeanor.
>Hold on, shouldn't we introduce ourselves first ?
>"Oh, sorry." Bow. "My name is Maribel Hearn, and i apologize for intruding on this place like this."
>We probably shouldn't introduce ourselves while we're trying to keep Yukari from finding us.
>We can introduce ourselves when the time finally comes to be able to stay in Gensokyo.
>Well, we can`t just be a nameless person, it wouldn`t do, nor can we go with ther "Four-Rainer" idea, since Sakuya is smarter than that.
>Yea... but that's only if she asks us again. Maybe something else would take interest before she can ask us, like our question of if she's seen our friend.
>Though if she still asks, we've no choice but to give her our name or end up looking more suspicious.But bowing in a getup like this. It'd kinda make me feel like a gentleman thief or something...
>We should demonstrate respect at least if we`re not gonna tell her our name.>You bow respectfully, leaving out the "My name is Maribel Hearn, and"
>There, now we can do all the explaining and describing.
>"I'm really sorry. I'm desperately searching for a friend, and I haven't been able to find her. I was told that someone saw her nearby.">You explain your situation and describe Sumireko.
>If she gives us the chance to, describe Sumireko and ask if she's seen her around.
>"There's no need to explain anything." The maid interrupts, "I'm seriously not that scary, am I? I mean, sure. I need to discipline the fairy maids and our gatekeeper every once in a while, but otherwise, I can be quite forgiving... Now, you should run along now, Rumia. The younger mistress is in the library I do believe. She will be happy to see you."
>"And your friend?" she asks.>"You're not that scary. You seem nice." Nod.
>"Oh, I'm sorry. My name is Mary."
>Gently caress Rumia`s hair.>"Well you haven't seen it when she's mad yet..."
>"See ? You had nothing to worry about, i don`t see why you were so scared."
>Smile, then turn to Miss Izayoi.>"Hmm, if that's true, then how did you get in here, then?" Sakuya asks.
>"Honestly, it was not her fault, we didn`t enter through a door or anything of the sort, we didn`t even see her."
//I shouldn't have been lazy and decide to sleep in the middle of the day :/ We should've just left outta here. Welp, time to come up with something...>"A Magician? Well, we just so happen to have a magician residing within our walls. Perhaps she has a spell or two she can share with you to help you locate your friend? I can take you to her if you'd like."
>"It's nothing much. A magic trick I learned. If you hadn't realized it yet, you're in the presence of Mary the Magician.
>Stand firmly and nod, then look a bit sad.
>"But I can't do much to find my friend..."
>"I dunno, are you sure i`m not going to bother anyone ? You don`t have the need to help us, although it would be appreciated.">"I doubt Patchouli would be busy at this time. We shouldn't disturb her much if you decide you want her assistance."
>"And I really really want to find my friend. I got sidetracked by fairies, then Miss Rumia... I don't want to just ignore them though...">"It seems like you're a really caring person... Anyway, if it's so urgent, then I advise arranging a meeting with our resident magician right away."
>"I-If it`s no bother, i`m actually not much truth be told, i just have the potential, it would be nice to have help from a full-fledged magician.">"Uh... What?" Rumia looks really confused
.....
>Then pick up Rumia and hug her.
>"Now you`re my cutesy little daughter ! I`ll give you lots of love and care, and we`ll live happily in a pretty nice house."
>Proudly announce our relationship with Yukari.>You are about to exclaim your relationship when...