Maidens of the Kaleidoscope
~Beyond the Border~ => Rumia's Party Games => Topic started by: Neovereign on October 01, 2017, 09:13:02 PM
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> You are Alice Margatroid, a magician living within the Forest of Magic.
> You've had another dream. This time however, you kept from any confrontations. Maybe you just slept wrong the first night... The dreams are in the back of your mind however, as you have more important things going on.
> Experimentation with the Glamour Mushrooms have, so far, shown fantastic results in each and every consumer. In order to increase research and development, you've gained the aid of the Aki sisters. However, even that was put back in favor of spending a day with Hong Meiling in the Human Village after having helped her grow big.
> The day has nearly gone with very few problems, and you and Meiling and sitting on a hill within the Forest of Magic, winding down.
>"Well, I hope you are more grateful this way."
> "I am." Meiling nods.
>_
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>Smile.
>"Good, I've quite enjoyed it myself."
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>Smile.
>"Good, I've quite enjoyed it myself."
> "I thought as much." Meiling smiles.
>_
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>Squeeze her hand again, and let our touch linger.
>If she doesn't seem to pull away, say, "Is this fine?"
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>Squeeze her hand again, and let our touch linger.
>If she doesn't seem to pull away, say, "Is this fine?"
> You squeeze again.
> "It's been fine since after the first time."
>_
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>"It's nice to hear, though."
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>"It's nice to hear, though."
> "Then I'll humor you. It's fine~" Meiling says again.
>_
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>"I do like to be humored."
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>"I do like to be humored."
> "It's nice, even. They're smooth."
>_
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>Chuckle.
>"Thank you, Meiling."
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>Chuckle.
>"Thank you, Meiling."
> "You must really take care of yourself well. And to have time to come up with things like size changing too... Maybe it's not time, but skill instead."
>_
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>"It helps that I generally have few obligations to worry about. You have so many that you need to keep happy, I just have myself."
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>"It helps that I generally have few obligations to worry about. You have so many that you need to keep happy, I just have myself."
> "What about your dolls? At least those two usually with you?"
>_
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>"Well. They kind of bend to my whims, in the end. I do try to be kind, though."
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>"Well. They kind of bend to my whims, in the end. I do try to be kind, though."
> "Ah. Well, there's ups and downs for both of our situations I guess."
>_
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>"True."
>Let's enjoy the forest quietly for a little bit, and see what Meiling says or does.
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>"True."
>Let's enjoy the forest quietly for a little bit, and see what Meiling says or does.
> You sit in silence...
> "I'm glad we didn't stay inside somewhere." Meiling says. "It's almost always better being out here when the weather is well."
>_
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>"I tend to stay cooped up inside with a book or working on my dolls. But you are right."
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>"I tend to stay cooped up inside with a book or working on my dolls. But you are right."
> "Try it when you have free time. In fact, feel free to hang around outside if you aren't at the mansion for Patchouli."
>_
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>"I might well be making quite a bit of time for that in the future."
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>"I might well be making quite a bit of time for that in the future."
> "Nice to know."
>_
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>"And by that token, I do hope to know when you'll have time off in the future."
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>"And by that token, I do hope to know when you'll have time off in the future."
> "I'll definitely work harder for more then. I'll have whole weeks off by the next time you ask!" Meiling boasts.
>_
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>"Oh I doubt you'll be free before I can ask again."
>Lay back and appreciate the stars.
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>"Oh I doubt you'll be free before I can ask again."
>Lay back and appreciate the stars.
> "You'll ask right away huh?" Meiling looks over to you as you lie back.
>_
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>"Within a day, I imagine~"
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>"Within a day, I imagine~"
> "Then I'll try my hardest still!"
>_
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>Chuckle.
>"I shouldn't doubt you, after today."
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>Chuckle.
>"I shouldn't doubt you, after today."
> "I'll make you proud." Meiling grins.
>_
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>Glance at her and smile.
>"Prouder, I should say."
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>Glance at her and smile.
>"Prouder, I should say."
> Meiling giggles.
>_
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>"Though I am jealous just how well the starling favors you."
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>"Though I am jealous just how well the starling favors you."
> "Hm?"
>_
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>*Star light
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>*Star light
> "I don't look that good. I'm not even wearing anything great today. I wish I was..."
>_
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>"You would look nice in pauper's rags, I assure you."
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>"You would look nice in pauper's rags, I assure you."
> "Aw you're exaggerating."
>_
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>"Only slightly, at most."
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>"Only slightly, at most."
> "I'll try to keep from ruining myself then."
>_
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>"That would be a little heartbreaking."
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>"That would be a little heartbreaking."
> "The mansion's resident's safety comes before appearances after all. But I won't neglect myself either."
>_
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>"I am curious, how often do you have to deal with intruders? Not just the kind you have to fight, but the kind you just have to turn away and such."
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>"I am curious, how often do you have to deal with intruders? Not just the kind you have to fight, but the kind you just have to turn away and such."
> "Not very often. I think the mansion's pretty well known, so not many people actually try and get into it."
>_
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>"Well, that is more time for yourself, then."
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>"Well, that is more time for yourself, then."
> Meiling nods.
> "But it's still kind of nice when people come around. Even if just to watch."
>_
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>"Watch?"
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>"Watch?"
> "Tai chi." Meiling says.
>_
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>"They're certainly going to have a show in the morning."
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>"They're certainly going to have a show in the morning."
> "At least I know what to generally expect thanks to today."
>_
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>"Applause and flowers, if they know how to appreciate what they're going to be seeing."
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>"Applause and flowers, if they know how to appreciate what they're going to be seeing."
> "I wouldn't expect everyone to have flowers on the ready with them at least."
>_
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>"They can find wild flowers."
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>"They can find wild flowers."
> "I hope they don't dig up the garden for them then."
>_
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>"Quite so. It would be a waste to present you your own flowers."
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>"Quite so. It would be a waste to present you your own flowers."
> Meiling nods.
>_
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>"It would only serve to make those flowers jealous anyways, how could the be compared to you?"
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>"It would only serve to make those flowers jealous anyways, how could the be compared to you?"
> Meiling laughs.
> "I make sure to take care of them a bit when I can you know."
>_
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>"Oh, I wasn't disparaging your gardening skills."
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>"Oh, I wasn't disparaging your gardening skills."
> "I didn't mean that you were."
>_
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>"Such lucky blooms."
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>"Such lucky blooms."
> "Even if you were a flower, I couldn't have all my time to you. But if you were the mansion or it's gate, then I could."
>_
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>Smile.
>"I hope that gate understands how blessed it is."
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>Smile.
>"I hope that gate understands how blessed it is."
> "It's probably grateful."
>_
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>Subtly scoot a bit closer to her.
>"As it should be."
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>Subtly scoot a bit closer to her.
>"As it should be."
> You scoot a bit closer to Meiling.
> Meiling lies on her back as well, sighing.
>_
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>Smile over toward her.
>"It's a lovely evening."
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>Smile over toward her.
>"It's a lovely evening."
> "It feels like we've been out for much more than a day already. Maybe everything's working in our favor."
>_
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>"There's plenty of evening left for us."
>Hm, let's be a bit daring. Reach out and play with her hair a bit.
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>"There's plenty of evening left for us."
>Hm, let's be a bit daring. Reach out and play with her hair a bit.
> "We roughly have until the sun's up again."
> You toy with Meiling's hair just a bit. She doesn't seem to mind it, smiling as you do so instead.
>_
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>Chuckle and go at it more than just a bit. "It feels nice."
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>Chuckle and go at it more than just a bit. "It feels nice."
> You curl a finger around and continue playing with her hair.
> "I'm glad it's nice to you." Meiling says. "Doesn't feel too bad like this either."
>_
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>"Sometimes I wonder if I should grow mine out a bit. But I suppose it's nearly a meter long now..."
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>"Sometimes I wonder if I should grow mine out a bit. But I suppose it's nearly a meter long now..."
> "I'm sure it'd look nice." Meiling says. "You could pull it off."
>_
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>Just wind her hair between all our fingers.
>"Maybe, but I like it as it is."
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>Just wind her hair between all our fingers.
>"Maybe, but I like it as it is."
> You continue.
> "And here I was hoping to see it. Oh well."
>_
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>"Well, Maybe I'll reconsider."
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>"Well, Maybe I'll reconsider."
> "I don't wanna make you regret it."
>_
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>"It's not like it can't be fixed if I don't care for it. Though I suppose nowadays, it would have to be you that fixes it."
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>"It's not like it can't be fixed if I don't care for it. Though I suppose nowadays, it would have to be you that fixes it."
> "Aw, why me?"
>_
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>"Who else is large enough?"
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>"Who else is large enough?"
> "Ah, right."
>_
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>Chuckle.
>"You're getting used to it, I see."
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>Chuckle.
>"You're getting used to it, I see."
> "Mhm." Meiling says.
>_
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>Shift a bit closer.
>"Me too."
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>Shift a bit closer.
>"Me too."
> You scoot a bit closer.
> Meiling turns over towards you.
> "I hope you're not planning on falling asleep here."
>_
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>"Would this be so bad?"
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>"Would this be so bad?"
> "I'd have to carry you home. Since you'd be asleep and all, wouldn't that be a downer?"
>_
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>"It would be a shame to miss that..."
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>"It would be a shame to miss that..."
> Meiling nods proudly.
>_
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>"I suppose we'll just have to come up with something to keep ourselves wakeful."
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>"I suppose we'll just have to come up with something to keep ourselves wakeful."
> "Any plans?"
>_
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>"Hmmm, maybe. How about you?"
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>"Hmmm, maybe. How about you?"
> "...Shiritori?"
>_
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>Snicker.
>"Really? That's what's on your mind right now?"
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>Snicker.
>"Really? That's what's on your mind right now?"
> "Well we wouldn't have to get up for it." Meiling says.
>_
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>"Oh, I think there's a number of things we wouldn't have to get up for... But alright, that might be fun. But perhaps there should be some stakes involved?"
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>"Oh, I think there's a number of things we wouldn't have to get up for... But alright, that might be fun. But perhaps there should be some stakes involved?"
> "We could consider your other ideas first."
>_
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>Twirl her hair a bit more.
>"I don't think it's hard to imagine what I'm thinking."
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>Twirl her hair a bit more.
>"I don't think it's hard to imagine what I'm thinking."
> Meiling blinks in realization.
> "A hint would be nice..."
>_
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>Smile, scoot a bit closer.
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>Smile, scoot a bit closer.
> You close the rest of the distance.
> Meiling lightly overlaps your hands with hers.
>_
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>Hover close to her face.
>"I think you got it."
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>Hover close to her face.
>"I think you got it."
> Meiling closes the rest of the distance, holding you gently in a brief moment of bliss.
> "I do." She stops with a smile.
>_
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>Slip our arms around her waist. "Good, very good."
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>Slip our arms around her waist. "Good, very good."
> You let go of Meiling's hands and shift yours to her waist.
> "If I was sleepy earlier, it's all but gone now."
>_
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>"Well then, what should we do with this newfound wakefulness?"
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>"Well then, what should we do with this newfound wakefulness?"
> "I vote for enjoying it more like this." Meiling says.
>_
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>"I think that's just fine. Perhaps you have some ideas to maximize your enjoyment?"
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>"I think that's just fine. Perhaps you have some ideas to maximize your enjoyment?"
> "Maybe..."
>_
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>"Mmm?"
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>"Mmm?"
> "This is nice for now though." Meiling says.
>_
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>"For now."
>Snuggle into her harms. When she's ready, she can take the next step.
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>"For now."
>Snuggle into her harms. When she's ready, she can take the next step.
> You snuggle into Meiling's grasp.
> Meiling plants another one, a bit longer.
>_
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>Respond in turn.
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>Respond in turn.
> You return hers.
> "How much longer do you think the sun will stay down for us?" Meiling asks.
>_
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>"Not long enough, so let's make good use of it, hm?"
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>"Not long enough, so let's make good use of it, hm?"
> "Of course."
>_
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>Snuggle closer, resting our cheek on her shoulder.
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>Snuggle closer, resting our cheek on her shoulder.
> You rest against Meiling.
> "This isn't that proper a place for much, is it?"
>_
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>"It's secluded, at least. What did you have in mind?"
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>"It's secluded, at least. What did you have in mind?"
> "What are you comfortable with?"
>_
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>"Quite a few things. I'll just follow your lead and we'll see if we get too far?"
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>"Quite a few things. I'll just follow your lead and we'll see if we get too far?"
> "I don't want to make a mistake..."
>_
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>Reassuring smile.
>"I don't think you will, Meiling."
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>Reassuring smile.
>"I don't think you will, Meiling."
> Meiling considers for a moment, before nodding.
> "Okay."
>_
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>Nod, and give her a peck on the cheek.
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>Nod, and give her a peck on the cheek.
> You give Meiling a short one on her check.
> "Tease..."
>_
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>"Think of it as encouragement."
>Another peck.
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>"Think of it as encouragement."
>Another peck.
> You give another.
> "Since it won't be a mistake then. I'll do quite a few things. But you have to too. It'd be unfair otherwise." Meiling smiles.
>_
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>"Oh, I intend to give just as good as I take~"
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>"Oh, I intend to give just as good as I take~"
> "Then we won't be waiting any longer."
> You and Meiling enjoy your night as if it'd never end, and it nearly doesn't to your senses. The time you had today was all more than worth the effort to get it...
> ...
> Your eyes take in a light glow as the sun brings you out of last night's dream. Your partner lies adjacent to you, oblivious to the rays.
> You feel refreshed and absolutely divine. You couldn't dream of resting as well until now.
>_
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>Did we fall asleep, or did we spend the whole night fooling around?
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>Did we fall asleep, or did we spend the whole night fooling around?
> The latter.
>_
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>Yawn.
>"We are definitely going to have to do that again..."
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>Yawn.
>"We are definitely going to have to do that again..."
> "Mm..." Meiling shifts a bit closer.
>_
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>"It's getting light out..."
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>"It's getting light out..."
> "Oh? Oh." Meiling rises a bit.
>_
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>Let her go, if a bit reluctantly.
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>Let her go, if a bit reluctantly.
> You release, until next time...
> Meiling sighs.
>_
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>"I suppose I'll have to cat nap through the day. Barely a price, really."
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>"I suppose I'll have to cat nap through the day. Barely a price, really."
> "Mm... I'll make sure to stay true to my words."
>_
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>Nod. "We'll figure out what to do."
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>Nod. "We'll figure out what to do."
> "Another day would've been nice..."
>_
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>"If only to rest up properly. But yes. it's simply too soon."
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>"If only to rest up properly. But yes. it's simply too soon."
> Meiling gets up.
> "So..."
>_
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>"I suppose it's time we go our separate ways for awhile."
>"Not that I intend to leave you alone for too long."
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>"I suppose it's time we go our separate ways for awhile."
>"Not that I intend to leave you alone for too long."
> "Mhm. I'll see you again Alice. It's been wonderful."
>_
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>Nod. "You too, Meiling. It was wonderful. I will come for again, my gallant giant gatekeeper."
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>Nod. "You too, Meiling. It was wonderful. I will come for again, my gallant giant gatekeeper."
> Meiling giggles.
> "I'll be waiting."
>_
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>"And I will be having trouble waiting."
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>"And I will be having trouble waiting."
> Meiling collects herself.
> "See you soon. ... Again." Meiling starts to depart.
>_
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>"Until then."
>Watch her go, then get ourselves collected, dressed, and presentable.
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>"Until then."
>Watch her go, then get ourselves collected, dressed, and presentable.
> You watch Meiling leave through the forest, getting yourself proper when she's out of sight.
>_
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>With that done, it's time to go home. Maybe we can get a little sleep in before things start up.
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>With that done, it's time to go home. Maybe we can get a little sleep in before things start up.
> You start home...
> There's fairies nearby along the way, but you aren't bothered.
>_
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>As we had home, contemplate if we can really even use it anymore. We're probably too large for our room and some of the facilities, but perhaps we can still fit in the living room?
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>As we had home, contemplate if we can really even use it anymore. We're probably too large for our room and some of the facilities, but perhaps we can still fit in the living room?
> You consider. If you move things out of the way, you could make some room in the living room. There's that one part of your house that can house larger dolls as well.
>_
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>Can that larger area be access from outside?
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>Can that larger area be access from outside?
> Yes.
>_
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>That'll be where we're going, then.
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>That'll be where we're going, then.
> You head for the taller portion of your house instead.
> Alright, you're here.
>_
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>Head inside.
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>Head inside.
> You make your way in.
>_
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>Clear out some space. See if Shanghai and Hourai show up; if not, no need to bother them.
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>Clear out some space. See if Shanghai and Hourai show up; if not, no need to bother them.
> You rearrange the room to give you some space. Your two dolls do not show up.
>_
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> How much more room in here do we have to grow, if we so chose?
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> How much more room in here do we have to grow, if we so chose?
> Possibly to 10 meters...
>_
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> And what are we at now?
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> And what are we at now?
> 6 meters.
>_
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> If we ended up growing to 10 meters, would we still be able to get back outside without destroying anything?
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> If we ended up growing to 10 meters, would we still be able to get back outside without destroying anything?
> Yes. It's for Goliath or similar dolls, after all.
>_
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> Let's go for it, then! Increase our size until growing any larger risks damaging the room.
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> Let's go for it, then! Increase our size until growing any larger risks damaging the room.
> You begin to grow yourself and your clothes...
> You get to 10 meters as expected, but in the middle of the room, you could still grow slightly larger.
>_
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> Get to the middle of the room and keep going, then.
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> Get to the middle of the room and keep going, then.
> You head to the middle and grow a bit more. You reach 11 meters thanks to it.
>_
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> We can still get out safely with the extra growth, yes?
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> We can still get out safely with the extra growth, yes?
> It'd be a bit of a squeeze...
>_
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Jesus calm down Kilga
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//It's never enough!
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We don't need to rush it hol horse first thing though. Save some cookies for later!
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Sorry. I'm all set for now.
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>Let's just see what we can do about making the area comfortable.
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>Let's just see what we can do about making the area comfortable.
> You doubt you'll get as comfortable as you would've at your previous size. The most you could do is possibly sit up against the wall...
>_
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>Is there sufficient floorspace to lay down in?
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>Is there sufficient floorspace to lay down in?
> Not at this size...
>_
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>...Forward and never back.
>Let's do what we can, then, to get comfortable. Try to make that wall as nice as possible.
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>...Forward and never back.
>Let's do what we can, then, to get comfortable. Try to make that wall as nice as possible.
> You sit up against a wall, trying what you can to get more comfortable than you are...
> ...
> This seems like the best you'll manage for now...
>_
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>Relax, and try to get in a nap.
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>Relax, and try to get in a nap.
> You try to relax and get some rest...
> ...
> It's difficult...
> ...
> Okay, this isn't working out well.
>_
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>Is the door wide enough we could, say, sleep half inside and half outside?
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>Is the door wide enough we could, say, sleep half inside and half outside?
> Yes.
>_
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>That'll have to do. Lets open the doors and slip half outside.
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>That'll have to do. Lets open the doors and slip half outside.
> You open the door and lie outside halfway.
>_
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> Is our head outside? If so, check surroundings before getting in a good position to take a nap.
> Reassess our magic levels.
> If everything is okay, take our well-deserved rest.
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> Is our head outside? If so, check surroundings before getting in a good position to take a nap.
> Reassess our magic levels.
> If everything is okay, take our well-deserved rest.
> Yes.
> You ensure nothing too harmful is nearby before adjusting a bit.
> Your magic is nearly full. You used some up in growing.
> You close your eyes and try to get some rest...
> A sharp pain in your arm interrupts you after a while, however.
> "Playing dead won't work. Though if you're already dead, I'll still spend a bit more time here before I move on..." You hear a woman.
>_
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> Endure the pain and open our eyes. Where are we?
> Look for the source of the voice.
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> Endure the pain and open our eyes. Where are we?
> Look for the source of the voice.
> You open your eyes...
> You're in Makai... Another dream?
> It's a ghost. She looks familiar. Something isn't right about this though. She seems tiny.
>_
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>Frown.
>Examine this ghost, is she doing anything? What does she look like?
-
> Could it be...
> Are we still big or are we our past self?
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>Frown.
>Examine this ghost, is she doing anything? What does she look like?
> It's a green haired woman in a blue outfit. Her hair is long. She has a sort of staff aimed at you.
> Could it be...
> Are we still big or are we our past self?
> You still seem to be big, however you don't look like your current self just a bit ago...
>_
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> ... So much for being her...
> Where are we lying at, exactly? Yes, Makai, but what part of it?
> "What is this all about?"
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> ... So much for being her...
> Where are we lying at, exactly? Yes, Makai, but what part of it?
> "What is this all about?"
> Near a city, you believe.
> "Did you hit your head on the way down?" The woman questions.
>_
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>"...Yes, actually. How did you know?"
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>"...Yes, actually. How did you know?"
> "Wild guess."
>_
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>"So, as for my original question?"
-
>"So, as for my original question?"
> "Well you see, when someone stands in your way and they don't intend on backing off peacefully, you might end up having to use a bit of force. And I'd say it's been a bit enjoyable so far."
>_
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>"That's more talking at the question rather than addressing it, don't you think?"
>Were we fighting? If so, why?
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>"That's more talking at the question rather than addressing it, don't you think?"
>Were we fighting? If so, why?
> You think so. Your body definitely seems to agree. However, you don't know.
> "I came here, you got in my way, we started fighting and now you're down there trying to find a way to get out of this."
>_
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>"Where were you trying to go?"
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> Are we visibly hurt? Or can we feel it?
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>"Where were you trying to go?"
> "Home. I may have just lost my way a few times~"
> Are we visibly hurt? Or can we feel it?
> Both of those...
>_
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> "Home?"
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>Is there any reason we shouldn't be letting her go home?
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> "Home?"
>Is there any reason we shouldn't be letting her go home?
> You really doubt this place is her home.
> "Yup."
>_
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>"Which is?"
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>"Which is?"
> "None of your concern."
>_
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>"I think it is, if we were fighting over it."
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>"I think it is, if we were fighting over it."
> "Perhaps." A few orbs appear around the ghost.
>_
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>Quietly conjure up a good 8 or so puppets behind us.
>"All the more reason to be honest about it."
-
>Quietly conjure up a good 8 or so puppets behind us.
>"All the more reason to be honest about it."
> You create a group...
> "Well, I don't plan on wasting too much time right here and going back, so..."
> Two of the orbs begin to spin.
> "Stay here for a while."
>_
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>Draw back! Direct the faeries to open fire; bullets in a v formation, all of them!
-
>Draw back! Direct the faeries to open fire; bullets in a v formation, all of them!
> You have your group fire towards your enemy.
> The two spinning orbs dart forwards at an arc opposing each other, starting to turn towards your direction for an intersection as they fire at you.
> The orbs will reach you before those bullets reach the ghost.
>_
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>Can we back away fast enough to avoid that intersection?
-
>Can we back away fast enough to avoid that intersection?
> Yes.
>_
-
>Let's do that. If time permits, toss out some strings to take direct control of half of our puppets as well.
-
>Let's do that. If time permits, toss out some strings to take direct control of half of our puppets as well.
> You float back as the orbs cross. They've passed behind you, however, they're still shooting.
> Their bullets from their way towards you as well as the ones behind you, and your bullets should reach both you and her in a moment, respectively. She seems to be going wide to dodge her troubles.
>_
-
>Did we have time to take control of some puppets?
-
>Did we have time to take control of some puppets?
> You did not.
>_
-
>They'll just have to keep firing them. If we can, order them to sway left and right, so as to mix up the overlapping of the bullet streams.
>Can can we tell about the orb shots she's put out? Can we read the pattern they form?
-
>They'll just have to keep firing them. If we can, order them to sway left and right, so as to mix up the overlapping of the bullet streams.
>Can can we tell about the orb shots she's put out? Can we read the pattern they form?
> The orbs have only fired directly towards you as they arced. You could possibly dodge both the ones ahead and behind you just by moving to the side, given you hadn't moved like so while they were firing at you.
> You have them keep firing.
> The scene cuts suddenly before any of the shots hit anyone, and you find yourself back where you should be.
> Your face stings quite a bit.
>_
-
> Open our eyes. Are we being poked or is it pain for real?
-
> Open our eyes. Are we being poked or is it pain for real?
> You definitely seem back home.
> Your face does actually sting some. Your arm hurts more though...
>_
-
>"Uuuh..."
-
> Touch our face lightly with our arm that is fine. Let's see if it's bleeding or something.
> Look at our arm that hurts too.
-
>"Uuuh..."
> Touch our face lightly with our arm that is fine. Let's see if it's bleeding or something.
> Look at our arm that hurts too.
> You touch your face some... It doesn't seem like it's bleeding at least.
> Your arm's singed some...
> Shanghai rushes to your view.
> "She's awake!"
> "Exactly." You hear Hourai.
>_
-
> "Hourai? Shanghai? What happened?"
-
> "Hourai? Shanghai? What happened?"
> "We tried waking you. In a few ways..." Shanghai looks over towards her sister doll. "They weren't working and we were getting worried."
> "She was fine, as expected." Hourai says.
>_
-
> "Ugh... Yes, don't worry... Just had heavy sleep."
> Rub our eyes.
-
> "Ugh... Yes, don't worry... Just had heavy sleep."
> Rub our eyes.
> You rub your eyes
> Your doll still seems worried...
>_
-
> "Don't worry Shanghai. I just needed to rest."
> Smile.
-
> "Don't worry Shanghai. I just needed to rest."
> Smile.
> You smile.
> She still seems worried.
> "How... How did it go? Yesterday?"
>_
-
> "It was wonderful."
> We have to shrink to get out, right?
-
> "It was wonderful."
> We have to shrink to get out, right?
> You could probably shift and try to sit up outside. That or drag yourself across the ground until you have room to stand.
>_
-
>Let's shift over, then sit up.
>"Everything went well here, yes?"
-
>Let's shift over, then sit up.
>"Everything went well here, yes?"
> You take a moment to sit up carefully.
> Shanghai nods.
>_
-
>Look around, make sure we haven't damaged anything; or ourself.
>"Did you two enjoy yourselves?"
-
>Look around, make sure we haven't damaged anything; or ourself.
>"Did you two enjoy yourselves?"
> You look around. Nothing's harmed aside from what's already happened to you.
> "...No..." Shanghai admits.
>_
-
>"Ahhh. Did you two get bored?"
-
>"Ahhh. Did you two get bored?"
> "Sort of." Shanghai replies.
>_
-
>Pat her on the head with a fingertip.
>"Want to tell me about it?"
-
>Pat her on the head with a fingertip.
>"Want to tell me about it?"
> You pat Shanghai lightly.
> "I wanted to go with you. Even though I know I couldn't. Hourai wasn't happy and didn't sleep nearby, so it was lonely..."
>_
-
>"Ah. Well, Shanghai, sometimes you'll have to learn to be by yourself. What was Hourai unhappy about?"
-
>"Ah. Well, Shanghai, sometimes you'll have to learn to be by yourself. What was Hourai unhappy about?"
> "I'm not sure."
>_
-
>Nod.
>"Well, I'm back today."
>Gently enfold the little doll in a big ole hug.
>"Now, what time is it?"
-
>Nod.
>"Well, I'm back today."
>Gently enfold the little doll in a big ole hug.
>"Now, what time is it?"
> You gently hug the tiny doll...
> "Still morning. I could check exactly."
>_
-
>"Please do. I'm going to head outside and stretch."
>Let her go.
-
>"Please do. I'm going to head outside and stretch."
>Let her go.
> You let go and Shanghai floats into the house.
>_
-
>Are we outside? Stand up straight and have a good stretch.
>Are we inside? Get outside and do them things!
>Also, any sign of Hourai?
-
>Are we outside? Stand up straight and have a good stretch.
>Are we inside? Get outside and do them things!
>Also, any sign of Hourai?
> Yes.
> You stand up straight and tall, stretching as you do so.
> Hourai doesn't appear to be outside. She may have gone in or elsewhere while you were speaking to Shanghai.
>_
-
>Hourai will show up when she's ready.
>Compare out height to the house, and the surrounding forest.
-
>Hourai will show up when she's ready.
>Compare out height to the house, and the surrounding forest.
> You are taller than your house and the off section for Goliath.
> The trees still surpass you... Some are under you now however.
>_
-
> ...Has Shanghai always spoken her words directly? Or was her dialogue just now the normal bunch of Pokemon speak and we just sort of tunes it out while translating?
-
> ...Has Shanghai always spoken her words directly? Or was her dialogue just now the normal bunch of Pokemon speak and we just sort of tunes it out while translating?
> You've become accustomed to Shanghai's and Hourai's noises and understand them easily. They don't actually speak as you and others do however.
>_
-
>We'll have to see how Marisa is doing on her research, and return her money.
-
>We'll have to see how Marisa is doing on her research, and return her money.
> You consider if she's still doing things with Patchouli or if she's back home by now...
>_
-
>Surely by now...
>Wait for Shanghai to return.
-
>Surely by now...
>Wait for Shanghai to return.
> You wait...
> ...
> She's really taking her time...
>_
-
>Frown, and peek in through the windows.
-
>Frown, and peek in through the windows.
> You peek...
> You can't find her through here...
>_
-
>"Shanghai?"
-
>"Shanghai?"
>...
> Your dolls both come out of the house.
>_
-
>"What was going on in there?"
-
>"What was going on in there?"
> "A talk." Hourai answers.
>_
-
>"Ah, alright."
>Is this common for them?
-
>"Ah, alright."
>Is this common for them?
> Given they're the only two dolls who can, they have seemingly talked to each other without you present before.
>_
-
>We'll think nothing more of it, then.
>"Did you get the time for me, Shanghai?"
-
>We'll think nothing more of it, then.
>"Did you get the time for me, Shanghai?"
> "Oh. I-I'll get it now." Shanghai turns back towards the house.
> "Hou Hourai Rai Hourai Hou Hourai Rai..." Hourai spouts nonsense you don't quite understand.
> Shanghai stops and returns to the other's side.
>_
-
>"What did you just say?"
-
>"What did you just say?"
> Hourai doesn't answer.
>_
-
>Sigh.
>"What's going here?"
-
>Sigh.
>"What's going here?"
> "Nothing." Hourai says.
>_
-
>Flat look.
>"Hourai."
-
>Flat look.
>"Hourai."
> The doll stares daggers defiantly.
>_
-
>"Out with it. There's nothing I can do until speak up."
-
>"Out with it. There's nothing I can do until speak up."
> "It wasn't anything."
>_
-
>"Even though it was enough to get Shanghai to stop in the middle of doing something I asked of her?"
-
>"Even though it was enough to get Shanghai to stop in the middle of doing something I asked of her?"
> "It wasn't anything. She just stopped because I made noise."
>_
-
>"Shanghai?"
-
>"Shanghai?"
> "She..." Shanghai pauses, before shaking her head.
>_
-
>Soften tone.
>"She what, Shanghai?"
-
>Soften tone.
>"She what, Shanghai?"
> The doll looks between you and Hourai.
> "She said-"
> "Shanghai..." The other doll looks upset.
> Shanghai goes quiet again.
>_
-
>"Don't let her bully you, Shanghai."
-
>"Don't let her bully you, Shanghai."
> "She said something in a code we made. For just the two of us." Shanghai says.
>_
-
>"Hm, and why do you feel you need to say things I can't understand? It's alright to tell me, I won't get upset. Nor will I get upset with you, Hourai. You can both be honest with me."
-
>"Hm, and why do you feel you need to say things I can't understand? It's alright to tell me, I won't get upset. Nor will I get upset with you, Hourai. You can both be honest with me."
> "We have things we want to get out to each other sometimes..." Hourai says.
> "Bottling them up might end up with us doing something regrettable." Shanghai adds.
>_
-
>"Go on. What sorts of things?"
-
>"Go on. What sorts of things?"
> "Worries..." Shanghai says.
>_
-
>"And you're afraid those worries will upset me? Or perhaps get you in trouble?"
-
>"And you're afraid those worries will upset me? Or perhaps get you in trouble?"
> "They're things we're okay with telling just each other."
>_
-
>"I suppose you don't want to tell me what was so worrying that it made you stop in the process of fulfilling a simple request for me?"
-
>"I suppose you don't want to tell me what was so worrying that it made you stop in the process of fulfilling a simple request for me?"
> The dolls are silent.
>_
-
>"I won't get mad, even if you tell me I'm the worst person in Gensokyo."
-
>"I won't get mad, even if you tell me I'm the worst person in Gensokyo."
> "If you can go on a date by yourself, you can check the time by yourself." Hourai says.
>_
-
>"Not quite at the moment. Hm, are you saying your workload is too much?"
-
>"Not quite at the moment. Hm, are you saying your workload is too much?"
> "No..." Shanghai says. "If anything, we have the least compared to the others collectively..."
>_
-
>Nod for her to continue.
-
>Nod for her to continue.
> "It's nothing." Hourai says.
>_
-
>"You were implying something. It's fine to go on, I won't get mad. After all, if you don't speak your heart, I can't change anything, can I?
-
>"You were implying something. It's fine to go on, I won't get mad. After all, if you don't speak your heart, I can't change anything, can I?
> "What are we going to do today?" Hourai asks.
>_
-
>We'll let her have the topic change for now.
>"We're going to see if Marisa has made any progress, and then see if we can find more mushrooms."
-
>We'll let her have the topic change for now.
>"We're going to see if Marisa has made any progress, and then see if we can find more mushrooms."
> "Weren't we going to be growing them soon?"
>_
-
>"Once Marisa gets it all worked out, yes."
-
>"Once Marisa gets it all worked out, yes."
> "Let's go then."
>_
-
>Let's go, then.
-
>Let's go, then.
> You step over towards Marisa's house.
>_
-
>Presumably arrival happens?
-
>Presumably arrival happens?
> Not directly into her house, thankfully, but you're here outside of it.
>_
-
>Kneel, and gently rap on her door.
-
>Kneel, and gently rap on her door.
> You kneel and do so.
> The door opens.
> "Geez, you're really going on and on with that size thing huh?" Marisa says.
>_
-
>Chuckle. "Perhaps. Oh, before I forget."
>Give Marisa the remaining money.
-
>Chuckle. "Perhaps. Oh, before I forget."
>Give Marisa the remaining money.
> You return Marisa's money. Well, most of it.
> "Thanks. How did the day go? Noticed you didn't come back last night." She smirks.
>_
-
>Smirk back.
>"Quite the success. And your experiments with Patchouli?"
-
>Smirk back.
>"Quite the success. And your experiments with Patchouli?"
> "Well, she's definitely gonna want to have another mushroom soon. Can you imagine someone like her being able to knock down trees physically? She'll be a monster."
> "She already is..." Hourai says.
> "But we didn't make any valuable breakthroughs. More like we didn't get the chance to."
>_
-
>"Oh, did something happen?"
-
>"Oh, did something happen?"
> Marisa shrugs.
> "I plan on going again anyways. What about you?"
>_
-
>Chuckle. "We had a lovely dinner, spent some time exploring the market. Managed to break even against a grifter. We had some...time together afterward, I'll say. So, how did the mushrooms affect Patchouli? Was the effect as I predicted?"
-
>Chuckle. "We had a lovely dinner, spent some time exploring the market. Managed to break even against a grifter. We had some...time together afterward, I'll say. So, how did the mushrooms affect Patchouli? Was the effect as I predicted?"
> Hourai grunts hardly audibly.
> "She was pretty large, but I don't think she was larger than me. Her magic was something though. It's pretty much just a somewhat stronger Patchouli without any of those physical and health problems she has. If she gets her hands on these and finds out how to grow them or reproduce their effects, I probably won't be able to make any more successful visits."
>_
-
>"Until you get your own, at least."
-
>"Until you get your own, at least."
> Marisa nods.
>_
-
>"So my observation was a total coincidence. Hmmm. I wonder what the Aki sisters have that Meiling has more of?"
-
>"So my observation was a total coincidence. Hmmm. I wonder what the Aki sisters have that Meiling has more of?"
> "Grace?"
>_
-
>"Grace?"
-
>"Grace?"
> Marisa gives another shrug.
>_
-
>"I suppose that if we could define it well, we could test it..."
-
>"I suppose that if we could define it well, we could test it..."
> "With who next?"
>_
-
>"We would need someone graceful, and someone who has very little grace indeed... Hmmm."
-
>"We would need someone graceful, and someone who has very little grace indeed... Hmmm."
> "And we'd need to get them to eat it of course."
>_
-
>"I'm not too worried about that part anymore. I think we can convince them."
-
>"I'm not too worried about that part anymore. I think we can convince them."
> "So that's our plan now?"
>_
-
>"Perhaps. Did you make any other discoveries?"
-
>"Perhaps. Did you make any other discoveries?"
> "It's actually a bit annoying to go through fairies to get in the mansion than Meiling."
>_
-
>Chuckle.
>"I suppose Sakuya must have been marshaling them?"
-
>Chuckle.
>"I suppose Sakuya must have been marshaling them?"
> "I'll pick a time when you two aren't on a date later then."
>_
-
>Smile.
>"Oh, you have to do better than that. Meiling is quite large herself, now."
-
>Smile.
>"Oh, you have to do better than that. Meiling is quite large herself, now."
> "Doesn't mean she's not still Meiling."
>_
-
>"Give her a little more credit than that. But, no more progress on the mushroom front, I take it?"
-
>"Give her a little more credit than that. But, no more progress on the mushroom front, I take it?"
> "We'll get some today, one way or another. Just watch."
>_
-
>Grin.
>"Anything I can do?"
-
>Grin.
>"Anything I can do?"
> "Have Shanghai and Hourai try one each?"
>_
-
>"Hm. What do you two think?"
-
>"Hm. What do you two think?"
> "I'd like to try it..." Shanghai says.
> Hourai doesn't answer.
>_
-
>Nod, and produce one of the two we have left for Shanghai.
-
>Nod, and produce one of the two we have left for Shanghai.
> You hand a pair to Shanghai.
> Shanghai examines it for a moment.
> "Well, go on." Marisa says.
>_
-
>"It's not too much, is it?"
-
>"It's not too much, is it?"
> "Maybe she'd like something to drink with it or..." Marisa says.
> Shanghai shakes her head, starting to eat it.
> "I wonder if the time changes based on how long you take to eat it..." Marisa says.
>_
-
>"That would be interesting, if true..."
>Observe, have faith in our doll.
-
>"That would be interesting, if true..."
>Observe, have faith in our doll.
> You watch...
> ...
> "I wonder if we could just make it into a liquid..." Marisa says.
> Shanghai finishes, starting to flash.
> "Oh. Well, at least it ended up working. Hey, maybe you could look for changes in her."
>_
-
> Watch in expectation... Maybe she will be of the size of a human...?
-
> Watch in expectation... Maybe she will be of the size of a human...?
> You watch...
> Shanghai grows in size, more and more until she's almost as large as Marisa.
> "Wonder how else she improved..."
>_
-
> Wonderful.
> "How do you feel?"
-
> Wonderful.
> "How do you feel?"
> "Lovely." The doll smiles.
> "Now comes waiting it out and seeing what new things she can do..." Marisa says. "Hm..."
>_
-
>"Try to say something in Japanese?"
-
>"Try to say something in Japanese?"
> "Hai?" Shanghai says.
> "Oh? That's something new!" Marisa says.
>_
-
>"Good job! Keep going!"
-
>"Good job! Keep going!"
> "Hai Shanghai Shanghai."
> "What?" Marisa questions.
> Hourai shakes her head.
>_
-
>Pat Shanghai on the head. "It was a good try."
-
>Pat Shanghai on the head. "It was a good try."
> "So it didn't work, but that was still something new. That's an increase, at least..." Marisa says.
>_
-
>"If she can still only use her name as a base, there's still a fair amount that she could say with just those syllables."
-
>"If she can still only use her name as a base, there's still a fair amount that she could say with just those syllables."
> Shanghai watches you intently, turning to Marisa when she speaks.
> "Hm. Well, I guess that means we have to figure out and understand what she's saying new now."
> "N-No." Hourai shakes her head. "It's just for us..."
> "What do you mean just for you?" Marisa asks.
>_
-
>"They've been developing their own code."
-
>"They've been developing their own code."
> "Oh. Really now?"
> Hourai nods.
>_
-
>"It's for their own privacy."
-
>"It's for their own privacy."
> "I see. Hm."
>_
-
>"Hm, do you feel like doing anything in particular, Shanghai?"
-
>"Hm, do you feel like doing anything in particular, Shanghai?"
> "Sstill." Shanghai pronounces, before thinking for a moment.
> "Huh?"
> "Still fair." She pronounces again.
>_
-
>Smile brightly. "Good job!"
-
>Smile brightly. "Good job!"
> "Ohh..." Marisa says. "Hourai, you try it too."
> "H-Hou..." The doll thinks for a bit, before shaking her head.
>_
-
>"That was a good try, Hourai."
-
>"That was a good try, Hourai."
> "Good." Shanghai imitates.
> "I want to learn!" Hourai holds out her hands. "Give me one now."
> "I can try to teach you..." Shanghai returns to her usual speech.
>_
-
>Give Hourai the other mushroom. "Let's see your best!"
-
>Give Hourai the other mushroom. "Let's see your best!"
> You hand Hourai the remainder.
> She starts to eat it.
>_
-
>Observe, and see if anything different happens with her.
-
>Observe, and see if anything different happens with her.
> You watch...
> The doll finishes up the mushroom and begins to change.
> Her size and outfit changes seem similar to Shanghai's, from what you observe so far.
>_
-
>"Well, we're all back to scale now!"
-
>"Well, we're all back to scale now!"
> "We can check your theory now too." Marisa says.
>_
-
>"Which one, again?"
-
>"Which one, again?"
> "The one you had about Patchouli. Maybe even check if one of these two are more 'graceful' than the other too."
>_
-
>Do we regard one as more graceful than the other?
-
>Do we regard one as more graceful than the other?
> Not really...
>_
-
>Does either seem particularly larger than the other?
>"We would need to find someone exceptionally graceful to experiment on..."
-
>Does either seem particularly larger than the other?
>"We would need to find someone exceptionally graceful to experiment on..."
> No.
> "It was just an idea thrown out there. But we could probably do someone that's the opposite of Meiling or the Aki sisters, for example."
> Shanghai begins to flash.
>_
-
//Iku!
-
>Ponder, do we consider Sakuya or Iku particularly graceful? If so, can we think of anyone who exceeds them?
>"It's about time, Shanghai."
-
>Ponder, do we consider Sakuya or Iku particularly graceful? If so, can we think of anyone who exceeds them?
>"It's about time, Shanghai."
> You've already done Meiling, so the only others you could consider are Yukari and Yuugi. Maybe that Menreiki? You think Sakuya or Iku would favor better though.
> "I wanted to learn more though." Shanghai looks down.
>_
-
>"You've done well, Shanghai."
>"Is it coming to you,Hourai?"
-
>"You've done well, Shanghai."
>"Is it coming to you,Hourai?"
> Shanghai's form changes back...
> "Watch their lips and how they say words Hourai." Shanghai explains to her sister.
> "Guess we need to start saying things for her then?" Marisa says.
>_
-
>"I suppose we should. I wish I knew one of those elocution practice phrases that takes one though all of the major syllables..."
-
>"I suppose we should. I wish I knew one of those elocution practice phrases that takes one though all of the major syllables..."
> "I wish I knew whatever the heck you just said too Alice." Marisa leans back against her doorway.
> Hourai's still watching and trying to get a grasp of the words you're saying...
>_
-
>"Oh, there's certain phrases you're supposed to practice in order to focus on eloquence. They're kind of like the opposite of a tongue twister, I suppose."
-
>"Oh, there's certain phrases you're supposed to practice in order to focus on eloquence. They're kind of like the opposite of a tongue twister, I suppose."
> "Mm. I see."
>_
-
>Does Hourai seem to be having any luck?
>"Hm. Do you think Yuyuko or Youmu are particularly graceful?"
-
>Does Hourai seem to be having any luck?
>"Hm. Do you think Yuyuko or Youmu are particularly graceful?"
> She's still watching...
> "I don't see Youmu being too graceful, Yuyuko might have more luck."
> "Grace." Hourai finally speaks.
> "Ah, there's one." Marisa says.
>_
-
>"Well done, Hourai! Can you get another one?"
-
>"Well done, Hourai! Can you get another one?"
> Silence...
> "Eloquence." Hourai smiles.
> "I bet that was fun to say..." Marisa says.
> Hourai answers with a happy nod.
>_
-
>"Very good! That's a difficult one."
-
>"Very good! That's a difficult one."
> Hourai smiles more as you spoil her with praise.
> "Maybe we should try something harder. Or just go through with quantity over quality." Marisa says.
>_
-
>"What do you think, Hourai?"
-
>"What do you think, Hourai?"
> "Give me something more difficult." The doll requests.
>_
-
>"Hmmm.... Rural Choir of the Anemone Isthmus."
-
>"Hmmm.... Rural Choir of the Anemone Isthmus."
> "Well, that escalated..." Marisa says.
> Hourai thinks...
> "A-Again." She says to you.
>_
-
>"Rural Choir of the Anemone Isthmus." Don't rush it, but don't draw it out.
-
>"Rural Choir of the Anemone Isthmus." Don't rush it, but don't draw it out.
> ...
> "Rural Choir of the Anemone Isthmus." The doll replicates flawlessly with a bit of an unsure look on her face.
> "You sound lovely Hourai!" Shanghai starts clapping.
>_
-
>Give Hourai a headpat. "You could be a poet!"
-
>Give Hourai a headpat. "You could be a poet!"
> You pat Hourai's head, and the doll regains her smile and optimism.
> "You could teach them the whole language like this. Hey, maybe the mushroom can teach people other languages too."
> "They would still need the meanings of the words, right?" Shanghai questions.
>_
-
>"I think Shanghai is right. They could learn to repeat words, but they wouldn't understand the meanings or the grammar behind them them."
-
>"I think Shanghai is right. They could learn to repeat words, but they wouldn't understand the meanings or the grammar behind them them."
> "That's one more thing on our plates then. And it'll still need the mushrooms... Starting to question if this is even worth distributing..." Marisa says.
>_
-
>"We can see if any more have grown overnight. Mushrooms do that sometimes. Besides, we're you the one full of promises about cultivating them?"
-
>"We can see if any more have grown overnight. Mushrooms do that sometimes. Besides, we're you the one full of promises about cultivating them?"
> "Yea but actually selling them. This is a lot of power in one thing. It's like we've got our own super drug."
>_
-
>"Well, I wouldn't mind keeping them as gifts, rather than products for sale."
-
>"Well, I wouldn't mind keeping them as gifts, rather than products for sale."
> "Maybe..."
>_
-
>"That said, I can certainly agree we shouldn't make these too freely available."
-
>"That said, I can certainly agree we shouldn't make these too freely available."
> "Of course."
>_
-
>"Try to say a sentence on your own now, Hourai?"
-
>"Try to say a sentence on your own now, Hourai?"
> "Maybe the mushroom can teach people other languages too." Hourai repeats something earlier.
> "A sentence on your own." Marisa says.
> Hourai shakes her head.
>_
-
>Nod. "That's fine, you still did quite well repeating that sentence, no pauses or anything."
-
>Nod. "That's fine, you still did quite well repeating that sentence, no pauses or anything."
> Hourai smiles a bit.
>_
-
>Give her another headpat.
>"Do you have any other experimentation plans on your end of things, Marisa?"
-
>Give her another headpat.
>"Do you have any other experimentation plans on your end of things, Marisa?"
> You repeat praise.
> "Well, I was going to ask if you could feel any changes through your dolls with those strings."
>_
-
>"Hm, this is your moment, Hourai, Would you mind?"
-
>"Hm, this is your moment, Hourai, Would you mind?"
> Hourai shakes her head, bracing herself.
> "So, they actually do hurt?" Marisa questions.
> "No... Well, we're definitely very used to it if it did..." Shanghai explains.
>_
-
>"If you don't want to, Hourai, that's fine."
-
>"If you don't want to, Hourai, that's fine."
> "I do." The doll answers.
>_
-
>Nod, then apply the strings. Try to make it quick.
-
>Nod, then apply the strings. Try to make it quick.
> You pierce Hourai with your strings, quickly and seemingly painlessly to the doll.
>_
-
>Do we feel anything unusual?
-
>Do we feel anything unusual?
> There's a lot more magic in her...
>_
-
>What can we do with that?
-
>What can we do with that?
> You'd just have to try something and see. Circulate it within her to try and make what happened to your magic happen to her? Take it in for yourself and see if she returns to normal or less when the time runs out. Send more in and see if she'll be able to fit it. Try to identify the magic more. There's a lot you could try...
>_
-
>Let's try to identify it.
-
>Let's try to identify it.
> You try to get a feel for how the magic is...
> It's... just like you put magic into Hourai. Nothing seems different...
>_
-
>"Hmmm. The power behind it is...curious. It seems as if I simply filled Hourai up myself..."
-
>"Hmmm. The power behind it is...curious. It seems as if I simply filled Hourai up myself..."
> "Maybe it just increases what's already there?" Marisa hypothesizes. "What if we used it on someone weak, with hardly anything? Oh! I got it! Kourin doesn't do fights or even duels, so we can try him! It's definitely the best test!"
>_
-
>"No."
-
>"No."
> "Eh?" Marisa asks.
>_
-
>"We're not risking that."
-
>"We're not risking that."
> Marisa frowns.
> "Hmph..."
>_
-
>Are we aware of the likes of Akyuu?
-
>Are we aware of the likes of Akyuu?
> In the sense that many if not everyone knows her. You don't know her much past maybe one or two actual sightings...
>_
-
>"If we're looking for a null person, I would recommend Akyuu."
-
>"If we're looking for a null person, I would recommend Akyuu."
> "That's someone kinda big though. I'd rather we learn more about these first."
>_
-
>Nod.
>"That's fair."
>Does it seem like Hourai is being affected longer than Shanghai?
-
>Nod.
>"That's fair."
>Does it seem like Hourai is being affected longer than Shanghai?
> You don't think so. You don't have a timer handy...
> As if to answer you, Hourai starts flashing.
>_
-
I wonder if we could pull the extra magic out of one of them and into ourselves, and if it would become a permanent transformation if we did so.
I'll leave the decision of whether or not to act on this to you, though.
-
Probably a bit late. But it seems like inviting bad things to happen to them or us. Maybe once it is better understood?
>"Ah, it's about time up, Hourai."
-
Yeah, it's not worth trying to vampire ourselves more magic out of Hourai right now. But it is a thought for the future, particularly since one of the very first mysteries surrounding the mushrooms was how to extract their power instead of just counting on waiting for them to grow and then eating them for a temporary boost.
-
Probably a bit late. But it seems like inviting bad things to happen to them or us. Maybe once it is better understood?
>"Ah, it's about time up, Hourai."
> "I was hoping for a bit more time..." Hourai says.
>_
-
>"I'm sorry. We haven't figured out quite how to do that yet."
>Aside from more mushrooms, but that's not quite an option now.
-
>"I'm sorry. We haven't figured out quite how to do that yet."
>Aside from more mushrooms, but that's not quite an option now.
> The doll returns to it's usual self.
>_
-
>"So, what are your research plans for the day?"
-
>"So, what are your research plans for the day?"
> "If not Patchouli then I'll probably be inside for a while. As for what to test for... Well, those two took their time finishing mushroom, so I'll try changing it's form and trying just some of it."
>_
-
>Nod.
>"I'll collect some more mushrooms, and maybe see if I can find Iku or Yuyuko around. And I think we can count on Sakuya as a firm control for the grace hypothesis as well."
-
>Nod.
>"I'll collect some more mushrooms, and maybe see if I can find Iku or Yuyuko around. And I think we can count on Sakuya as a firm control for the grace hypothesis as well."
> "Tell me if Shanghai or Hourai end up learning any more languages."
>_
-
>"Of course. I'll see if I can find any good opportunities to get some money together while I'm out, too."
-
>"Of course. I'll see if I can find any good opportunities to get some money together while I'm out, too."
> Marisa nods.
>_
-
>"I think we have a plan, then."
>Assuming she has nothing else of note to add, move out toward the mushroom garden.
-
>"I think we have a plan, then."
>Assuming she has nothing else of note to add, move out toward the mushroom garden.
> You take your leave and make your way to where the mushrooms have usually grown.
> You arrive without difficulty.
>_
-
>Summon a decent-sized mob of dolls, send them on the usual search and retrieve mission.
-
>Summon a decent-sized mob of dolls, send them on the usual search and retrieve mission.
> You summon your dolls and have them spread out once again.
>_
-
>Wait for results.
-
>Wait for results.
> You wait...
> One of your dolls returns after a short wait.
>_
-
>Does she want us to follow her? If so, do so! Does she have a mushroom? Accept it!
-
>Does she want us to follow her? If so, do so! Does she have a mushroom? Accept it!
> Yes.
> You follow the doll, whom leads you back to a mushroom pair. There are a couple of fairies near it.
> "Oh, it came b-"
> "Uwaah! A giaaant!"
> The fairy whom called you out starts to flee, copied by the others as they take note of your presence.
>_
-
>"Goodbye!"
>Wave, then claim the mushrooms.
-
>"Goodbye!"
>Wave, then claim the mushrooms.
> You wave.
> You claim the pair.
>_
-
>Let' go back to the meeting point, now. Hopefully the faeries will forget it all soon enough.
-
>Let' go back to the meeting point, now. Hopefully the faeries will forget it all soon enough.
> You head back...
> No other dolls have returned yet.
>_
-
>Wait patiently. Ponder where we might find Iku at as we do.
-
>Wait patiently. Ponder where we might find Iku at as we do.
> You wait and take the time to think. ...Well, your best consideration would be above the clouds, but even so, that is broad...
> Another doll returns.
>_
-
>Did we dismiss that first doll? If not, take care of that with a headpat and a kind word.
>Then follow this one.
-
>Did we dismiss that first doll? If not, take care of that with a headpat and a kind word.
>Then follow this one.
> You ensure the first doll is dismissed well, then follow the next one...
> Another mushroom pair and no extras nearby.
>_
-
>Snag this pair, thank and dismiss the doll, then return to the meeting point.
>While waiting for the next one, ponder if we know any places Iku tends to go when she does come down to earth.
-
>Snag this pair, thank and dismiss the doll, then return to the meeting point.
>While waiting for the next one, ponder if we know any places Iku tends to go when she does come down to earth.
> You grab a second pair of "Glamour Mushrooms", heading back once more.
> You consider where Iku could be should she come down here...
> The Human Village and the Hakurei Shrine are quite popular. However, you'd need to know when she comes down. Searching for her shouldn't be difficult with your dolls however.
>_
-
>We could ask around those places for more details, hmmm...
>Does it seem like any more dolls are coming?
-
>We could ask around those places for more details, hmmm...
>Does it seem like any more dolls are coming?
> No, none others yet.
>_
-
>Patience. They'll return sooner or later, empty-handed or not.
-
>Patience. They'll return sooner or later, empty-handed or not.
> You wait...
> ...
> Your dolls all begin to arrive.
>_
-
>Do any of them seem to have any findings?
>Dismiss those that do not with a kind word of thanks.
-
>Do any of them seem to have any findings?
>Dismiss those that do not with a kind word of thanks.
> No...
> You show appreciation for your dolls efforts and dismiss them.
>_
-
>Once we are sure there are none left, let's make our way toward the Human Village.
-
>Once we are sure there are none left, let's make our way toward the Human Village.
> You wait a bit, then depart for the village...
> There are no interruptions as you make it inside...
>_
-
>Firstly, let's assess how we can actually get through the village. Which roads are wide enough to have comfortable space, which are large enough for us but not not others but also see little traffic, and which we should just avoid.
>From there, let's assess the best places to ask around about Iku. That's probably better than sending in a bunch of dolls and causing a ruckus.
-
>Firstly, let's assess how we can actually get through the village. Which roads are wide enough to have comfortable space, which are large enough for us but not not others but also see little traffic, and which we should just avoid.
>From there, let's assess the best places to ask around about Iku. That's probably better than sending in a bunch of dolls and causing a ruckus.
> You start to recall the locations and how to get through...
> There's not many with low population, if any. You'd have to watch your step the whole time going any of these ways...
> You might have the best luck asking passerby's rather than those in establishments. If Iku's not one to eat here or anything...
>_
-
>Is Iku one to hang out around the market?
>Let's make our way there, regardless. Perhaps financial opportunity will rear its head, if ithyloloid opportunity will not. Tell Shanghai and Hourai to watch out for such, too.
>Take care with our steps and such, try to avoid tight areas.
-
>Is Iku one to hang out around the market?
>Let's make our way there, regardless. Perhaps financial opportunity will rear its head, if ithyloloid opportunity will not. Tell Shanghai and Hourai to watch out for such, too.
>Take care with our steps and such, try to avoid tight areas.
> You haven't known/seen her around enough to confirm.
> You carefully start towards the market...
> You're really making terrible progress like this. There's too many people and objects. Residents have started to bump into each other and stagger as they try to make way for you, and you've already accidentally knocked a couple of people down and nudged into others enough to start gathering attention...
>_
-
>Surely there are larger roads we could be following? We cant take up more space than carts and the like...
>Either way, make careful progress.
-
>Surely there are larger roads we could be following? We cant take up more space than carts and the like...
>Either way, make careful progress.
> You start to take a different road. It's not as crowded, but still many things in the way. Thankfully, no bumps...
> You arrive at the general area, hoping not to cause more trouble for others here...
>_
-
>Carefully stroll about.
>Keep an eye open for stalls and the like we think that Iku might visit, and inquire about her at them.
>Also look for passersby who don't seem to be especially busy, we can ask them too.
>On top of this, look for money-making opportunities. With our current size and strength, there ought to be some nice niches for us. Have Shanghai and Hourai watch for that, too.
-
> Also observe the people of the village. Are they scared?
-
>Carefully stroll about.
>Keep an eye open for stalls and the like we think that Iku might visit, and inquire about her at them.
>Also look for passersby who don't seem to be especially busy, we can ask them too.
>On top of this, look for money-making opportunities. With our current size and strength, there ought to be some nice niches for us. Have Shanghai and Hourai watch for that, too.
> Also observe the people of the village. Are they scared?
> The villagers seem bothered by your presence, but aren't scared for the most part. They may be some that recall you from yesterday from their expressions...
> You think you might see her already. There's that cloth-ribbon thing she has... Her shawl, you believe.
>_
-
>Approach with due care for a better look!
-
>Approach with due care for a better look!
> You approach...
> Yes, it seems to be her.
> Shanghai and Hourai look over some, and nod towards you.
>_
-
>"Miss Nagae, how are you today?"
-
>"Miss Nagae, how are you today?"
> "Hm?" The woman turns. "Ah, Alice? Is that you?" Iku questions.
> Your two dolls nod.
>_
-
>"Yes, I'm Alice. What brings you to the surface today?"
-
>"Yes, I'm Alice. What brings you to the surface today?"
> Iku turns back.
> "Excuse me for a while, please."
> The person she was looking to before you came along nods.
> Iku turns back towards you.
> "I wanted to talk to some of the residents here. No one in particular, just chat about something."
>_
-
>"Well, if you're bored, perhaps I could offer something to fill the day?"
-
>"Well, if you're bored, perhaps I could offer something to fill the day?"
> "Oh, this isn't boring. It's quite informative. But I will hear you out if you would like to continue."
>_
-
>"I am performing a series of experiments, and I would like to borrow someone with grace on such as yours."
-
>"I am performing a series of experiments, and I would like to borrow someone with grace on such as yours."
> "A series of experiments? May I hear the details first?"
>_
-
>"I would rather not share, it might affect the results. It won't be dangerous, and every subject so far has said not knowing has made it more fun."
-
>"I would rather not share, it might affect the results. It won't be dangerous, and every subject so far has said not knowing has made it more fun."
> "Hm... What is the urgency of this test? Could it be held off until later?" Iku asks.
>_
-
>"It could, I suppose... Time isn't really a factor, but I would like to handle it sooner rather than later. When would be good for you?"
-
>"It could, I suppose... Time isn't really a factor, but I would like to handle it sooner rather than later. When would be good for you?"
> "I can spare some time now. You had come this way for me..."
>_
-
> Wonder about the person who had previously accompanied Iku. Is he/she going to freak out upon the return?
-
> Wonder about the person who had previously accompanied Iku. Is he/she going to freak out upon the return?
> They don't seem very worried about your size, so possibly not...
>_
-
>"If it is more convenient, I can meet you outside of town in an hour or so."
-
>"If it is more convenient, I can meet you outside of town in an hour or so."
> iku nods.
>_
-
>Give her a meeting place just outside of town; preferably toward the Forest of Magic with an easy to see landmark.
>"Meet me by The Stick"
>Once that is agreed on, allow her to go her way, and let see about finding some financial opportunity. Were Shanghai and Hourai gesturing toward one earlier?
-
>Give her a meeting place just outside of town; preferably toward the Forest of Magic with an easy to see landmark.
>"Meet me by The Stick"
>Once that is agreed on, allow her to go her way, and let see about finding some financial opportunity. Were Shanghai and Hourai gesturing toward one earlier?
> "No can do. There's less than positive people hanging around there at a time like this. " "I'll be on the look out for you."
> No, unfortunately.
>_
-
>Oh well. We can kill an hour looking around for such things. Even if there aren't offers, there has to be something larges that needs loading we can get some money for...
-
>Oh well. We can kill an hour looking around for such things. Even if there aren't offers, there has to be something larges that needs loading we can get some money for...
> You start looking around...
> There's a few people carrying a large... partial structure, atop a big board.
>_
-
>Approach.
>"Would you all like a little help?"
-
>Also observe the structure closely. What kind of structure is it?
-
>Approach.
>"Would you all like a little help?"
>Also observe the structure closely. What kind of structure is it?
> You approach as you examine.
> It seems to be a frame of some sort. It's unknown whether it will support an object or actually make up that object later...
> "Hah, there she is."
> "But the other one's not with her."
> "Y-Yea." One of the group addresses you. "We're trying to get this to another part of town, because building it in the market was such a good idea."
> "They had everything we needed."
> "Yea but we could've carted what we needed it with us, instead of this. It's not even finished."
> "We should stay here until more materials come up then."
> Shanghai points to what seems to be a doll related business stand.
>_
-
>"Well. I suppose I could help out..."
>Take note of that stand, but let's continue this first.
-
>"Well. I suppose I could help out..."
>Take note of that stand, but let's continue this first.
> "Help out?"
//There might be a hiatus for a while. Not sure yet...
>_
-
>"I'm sure I can move that thing wherever you might need it."
-
>"I'm sure I can move that thing wherever you might need it."
//At least breaks/ less than frequent posting.
> "You would?"
> "That'd be better, since we couldn't really get a wagon or anything for it..."
>_
-
>"But of course."
>We'll not ask for anything, this time. It'll be advertising...
>Move in, assess the load and make sure we can tell where it is sturdy and where it is delicate, then lift that sucker.
>"Where you do you want it?"
-
>"But of course."
>We'll not ask for anything, this time. It'll be advertising...
>Move in, assess the load and make sure we can tell where it is sturdy and where it is delicate, then lift that sucker.
>"Where you do you want it?"
> You examine the frame and the board...
> Then lift it with care. Pretty fine... Nothing's breaking or sounding near such.
> "Follow us, please."
> "She might still want a location. It sounds shady otherwise."
> It'd sound shady if we told her too..."
>_
-
>"Just lead."
-
>"Just lead."
> The group nods, starting away from the market.
>_
-
>Follow! Take especial care as we walk, we don't want to slam this thing into a building or step on anyone.
-
>Follow! Take especial care as we walk, we don't want to slam this thing into a building or step on anyone.
> You follow...
> Some fairies begin to start trying to push you over after a while...
>_
-
>Pause, straighten up, give the faeries a look.
>"And just what are you trying to do?"
-
>Pause, straighten up, give the faeries a look.
>"And just what are you trying to do?"
> You pause and straighten up, glaring at the fairies.
> "Sabotage!"
> "The bigger they are, the harder they fall. And falling hard will be hilarious!"
> "But more importantly, sabotage!"
>_
-
>"Get out of the village before the shrine maiden finds you!"
-
>"Get out of the village before the shrine maiden finds you!"
> "She can't do anything if she's not here. As long as we're away from her and she doesn't know, she's powerless!" One of the fairies charges towards what you're carrying, before being knocked back by Hourai.
>_
-
>"Thank you, Hourai."
>Coolly to the faeries. "If I have to put this down, I am going to be...irate."
-
>"Thank you, Hourai."
>Coolly to the faeries. "If I have to put this down, I am going to be...irate."
> "Ooh, I'd hate for you to be irate. Scaaary~" One fairy taunts.
> "Well I rate an eight out of eight performance on scariness." Another boasts.
> "If you put it down, we'll knock it down. Um... You clown!"
> "Ugh..." One of the men groans. "Annoying..."
>_
-
>"Shanghai, Hourai? Would yo do the honors, please?"
-
>"Shanghai, Hourai? Would yo do the honors, please?"
> The two dolls fly up.
> "Ooh, dollies. Scary."
> Hourai concentrates for a moment, before firing a red laser at the offending fairy.
> The laser makes contact, easily getting rid of her.
> "Hey!" The remaining fairies fly back some.
>_
-
>"I'm sure you two can find me once you're done," I say to the dolls, before resuming my course.
-
>"I'm sure you two can find me once you're done," I say to the dolls, before resuming my course.
> Your dolls nod, and both take up arms.
> "Weapons? That's unfair."
> "We have lasers too you-Aah!" The fairy flies back as Hourai charges at her.
> You continue on, following the group...
> Your leaders stop near the school.
> "Alright, around here, but still out of the way will do."
>_
-
>"It's really nothing for me to take it right where you need it, we don't have to stop halfway."
-
>"It's really nothing for me to take it right where you need it, we don't have to stop halfway."
> "You sure?"
>_
-
>"Lead the way."
-
>"Lead the way."
> The group leads you further...
> You arrive in a more residential area. Your dolls have returned to you by now.
> "Thanks a lot for this."
> "And those fairies..."
>_
-
>"Just tell me where to put it, and you've very welcome."
-
>"Just tell me where to put it, and you've very welcome."
> "Down by this house please." One of the men points.
> "We're getting a wagon or bags to carry the materials HERE next time."
> "I know I know. Do it the scattered way instead of keeping things close together. Sooo smart."
>_
-
>Set it down.
>"There, hopefully that helped out?"
-
>Set it down.
>"There, hopefully that helped out?"
> They nod.
> "Yea. Thanks a lot. It would've taken much longer getting it all the way back here."
>_
-
>"Excellent. Do spread the word, then? I've a lot to offer, I think, and I need to eat too."
-
>"Excellent. Do spread the word, then? I've a lot to offer, I think, and I need to eat too."
> "Of course. Miss Alice, right? And Shanghai and Hourai?"
>_
-
>Nod. "That's right."
-
>Nod. "That's right."
> "We'll try to mention you when we can then."
>_
-
>"I would appreciate that. And if there is anything else you need, such as placing that roof, I am available for hire!"
-
>"I would appreciate that. And if there is anything else you need, such as placing that roof, I am available for hire!"
> "We'll try to find you if we need more help then."
>_
-
>Nod, and make our way back toward the market.
>"Thank you both for handling those pests."
>How long until our meeting with Iku?
-
>Nod, and make our way back toward the market.
>"Thank you both for handling those pests."
>How long until our meeting with Iku?
> You start back.
> Still no time to rush yourself in getting to her yet, even if you'd like to be early.
> Your dolls nod.
>_
-
>There was a doll stand that Shanghai and Hourai pointed out. Let's go investigate that.
-
>There was a doll stand that Shanghai and Hourai pointed out. Let's go investigate that.
> You try to locate it...
> It seems like they're starting to put things away. That or swapping the current things for different ones and staying up...
>_
-
>Observe for a moment. Let's see what opportunity show themselves.
-
>Observe for a moment. Let's see what opportunity show themselves.
> You wait until the mysterious vendor packs up.
> They're starting to take down the rest of the stand as well...
>_
-
>Perhaps we've missed this opportunity, unless it seems like we can really assist with the packing up.
-
>Perhaps we've missed this opportunity, unless it seems like we can really assist with the packing up.
> You may have missed it...
> The person begins to move their entirety elsewhere...
> There's still a few places up and time before meeting with Iku. Not many opportunities to help around though...
> The person that packed up seems to stop on the opposing side to where they were in the market, and begins unpacking again.
>_
-
>Look around a bit, but keep an eye on that stand as it goes up.
-
>Look around a bit, but keep an eye on that stand as it goes up.
> You continue to search around...
> No luck.
>_
-
>Is anything interesting happening at that stand?
-
>Is anything interesting happening at that stand?
> No. Things were just set right back up... You think they just only moved some. Not sure why...
>_
-
>Quietly to the dolls. "Just why did you two direct me toward there? Is it simply because they specialize in dolls?"
-
>Quietly to the dolls. "Just why did you two direct me toward there? Is it simply because they specialize in dolls?"
> "We thought it'd be interesting. You're good with dolls..."
> "And those look familiar..."
>_
-
>Nod. "It's good thinking. Let's get a closer look at them."
>Go inspect the wares!
-
>Nod. "It's good thinking. Let's get a closer look at them."
>Go inspect the wares!
> You examine.
> They're paper dolls. Similar to the ones Hina showed you on the mountain.
>_
-
>"These are very lovely, could you tell me about them?"
-
>"These are very lovely, could you tell me about them?"
> "Unfortunately, not much. I can't say these are my own creations either." You confirm the voice of Hina.
>_
-
>"Ah, I didn't see you there."
-
>"Ah, I didn't see you there."
> "It's kind of the point." Hina looks up to you. "Given I'm avoided, I hoped attention would be turned from me to the wares with this appearance, but I seem to be avoided further than normal."
> "Because you look like a shady dealer or criminal..." Hourai says.
>_
-
>"You do seem a bit disreputable."
>Examine what's selling, and how she's presenting them and herself.
-
>"You do seem a bit disreputable."
>Examine what's selling, and how she's presenting them and herself.
> There are some paper dolls, as well as a few amulets... They're in separate stacks of... at least 10, to the sides of the front of the stand. The center is open/clear of wares, forming a large gap between Hina and you, as well as the doll stacks and the amulet stacks.
> Hina nods understandingly.
>_
-
>"Why did you move, if I may?"
-
>"Why did you move, if I may?"
> "Hopefully for more attention. It has worked for you, but I've yet to see others, and you haven't made any purchases yet either."
>_
-
>"I'm a bit light on cash, right now, otherwise I would be tempted."
-
>"I'm a bit light on cash, right now, otherwise I would be tempted."
> "Ah, how unfortunate."
> Hourai frowns.
>_
-
>"What do you think, Hourai?"
-
>"What do you think, Hourai?"
> "Hm? They look fine, but we don't have the money for it, right? Do you plan on making them into your kind of dolls?"
>_
-
>Can we convert one doll type into another?
-
>Can we convert one doll type into another?
> Possibly. It depends on what it entails. Giving energy to someone's regular doll can make it act for you just as if you made the doll. Something flat like these dolls might not work though...
>_
-
>"I'd want them for decoration, actually."
-
>"I'd want them for decoration, actually."
> "Really?" Hourai questions.
>_
-
>Nod to the doll.
>"Hm. I wonder how I could help you? I suppose I could make a few of these dance, but I don't know if that would be good advertising or not..."
-
>Nod to the doll.
>"Hm. I wonder how I could help you? I suppose I could make a few of these dance, but I don't know if that would be good advertising or not..."
> "Thank you, but you don't need to. It would mainly be favored against you anyways, as you did seem like you had plans." Hina says.
>_
-
>"I have a little bit before I'm obligated."
-
>"I have a little bit before I'm obligated."
> "If you desire. I'm welcome to ideas."
>_
-
>"Well, I did suggest an idea a moment ago. What do you think?"
-
>"Well, I did suggest an idea a moment ago. What do you think?"
> "Dancing may gather attention, but it'd be false advertising. People may be disappointed if they make a purchase and realize the dolls don't dance on their own."
> "Wouldn't it show the dolls off more? I don't think they'd just buy them because they dance." Shanghai says.
> "Maybe they'll pay for a show of them dancing." Hourai suggests.
>_
-
>"They might, Hourai, but I am loath to use dolls for something so base as accruing money. You all deserve more than that from me. Helping someone sell her own is one thing, but just getting money for the performance? It feels like debasing both of us."
>Does it seem like many children come through here?
-
>"They might, Hourai, but I am loath to use dolls for something so base as accruing money. You all deserve more than that from me. Helping someone sell her own is one thing, but just getting money for the performance? It feels like debasing both of us."
>Does it seem like many children come through here?
> "It's a performance showing skill." Hourai sighs. "Thinking things like that give us less opportunities..."
> Those that are have adults accompanying them, but yes, there are many.
>_
-
>"Well, you're in a good location, Hina. Hmmm."
-
>"Well, you're in a good location, Hina. Hmmm."
> Hina waits as you consider...
>_
-
>"Has anyone shown interest? What has your salesmanship been like?"
-
>"Has anyone shown interest? What has your salesmanship been like?"
> "Not yet, no. I've just been waiting."
>_
-
>"Perhaps we could make your booth a bit more inviting?"
-
>"Perhaps we could make your booth a bit more inviting?"
> "I won't decline it. Thank you."
>_
-
>How are the paper dolls displayed?
-
>How are the paper dolls displayed?
> They're stacked on one another, mostly flat. It's slanted some towards you, so you can see more of their front than if they were facing directly upwards.
>_
-
>"Perhaps if we ran your dolls along some thread, and hung them like a banners?"
-
>"Perhaps if we rand your dolls along some thread, and hung them like a banners?"
> "Maybe."
>_
-
>Do we have any thread to spare on us?
-
>Do we have any thread to spare on us?
> Of the regular variety? Yes, you should...
>_
-
>Let's produce some of that, and see if we can string the dolls through it without damaging them.
-
>Let's produce some of that, and see if we can string the dolls through it without damaging them.
> You retrieve some of your string, considering if you could safely run it through the dolls...
> There isn't really a safe way through your observations...
>_
-
>"Bah. We'll need some clothespins."
-
>"Bah. We'll need some clothespins."
> "It's not that big a need. Please don't get upset."
>_
-
>"I have some at home that I could lend you."
>Given our current walking speed, does it feel like we could return home, then return to this stand before having to meet Iku? Failing that, could we return home, then get to the meeting point in time to meet with Iku?
-
>"I have some at home that I could lend you."
>Given our current walking speed, does it feel like we could return home, then return to this stand before having to meet Iku? Failing that, could we return home, then get to the meeting point in time to meet with Iku?
> You consider...
> You could drop some off for Hina here, but you wouldn't have much more time to stay. Perhaps enough for a few words and a so long.
>_
-
>"How long are you going to be here? If you can wait a little while, I'll bring you some."
-
>"How long are you going to be here? If you can wait a little while, I'll bring you some."
> "I'll be staying some time longer." Hina nods. "I can wait."
>_
-
>Nod. "I'll be back in awhile."
>Let's leave town, take appropriate care, use wide roads only. Head back home, and fetch a pocketful of clothespins (we can have one of the dolls do this, so we don't have to grope through the door).
>After that, presuming nothing happens, swing on to meet Iku.
-
>Nod. "I'll be back in awhile."
>Let's leave town, take appropriate care, use wide roads only. Head back home, and fetch a pocketful of clothespins (we can have one of the dolls do this, so we don't have to grope through the door).
>After that, presuming nothing happens, swing on to meet Iku.
> You start back through the paths, getting a much clearer route this time.
> Without interruption, you begin to have your dolls gather a few clothespins as you wait outside...
> With nothing new happening, you head for your and Iku's meeting point.
> "Hm? Oh. You're a bit early." Iku says.
>_
-
>"I wouldn't want to keep you waiting."
>Kneel down beside her. "I would like you help me with an experiment."
>Produce a pair of glamour mushrooms and present them to her. "Just eat these."
-
>"I wouldn't want to keep you waiting."
>Kneel down beside her. "I would like you help me with an experiment."
>Produce a pair of glamour mushrooms and present them to her. "Just eat these."
> You kneel and retrieve one pair.
> "Eat these?" Iku questions, taking the pair.
>_
-
>Nod.
>"I can assure you, it won't be dangerous or unpleasant. Quite the opposite."
-
>Nod.
>"I can assure you, it won't be dangerous or unpleasant. Quite the opposite."
> "Is this a long term experiment, or just something fairly brief?"
>_
-
>"It should be brief."
-
>"It should be brief."
> Iku starts to eat the mushroom pair.
>_
-
>Observe as she does, and wait for it to take effect.
-
>Observe as she does, and wait for it to take effect.
> You watch as Iku finishes...
> She begins to flash, and the changes take effect.
> Her size notably increases just some, and with it, her shawl. She does not pass Meiling's mushroom height. Her hair has increased in length some, but isn't long enough to even nearly pass her waist.
> She only passes the previous goddesses in the chest department, still behind Meiling.
>_
-
>"Hmmm. Shanghai, take down some notes on this, please?"
>"How do you feel, Miss Nagae?"
-
>"Hmmm. Shanghai, take down some notes on this, please?"
>"How do you feel, Miss Nagae?"
> Shanghai nods.
> "It was refreshing and not that bad a taste. The current feeling is amazing though. It's not as easy to describe..."
>_
-
>"Have a look around, perhaps it will help put things into words?"
-
>"Have a look around, perhaps it will help put things into words?"
> Iku examines herself generally...
> "It's... a miracle. Eating something to change your appearance so swiftly and differently. Excuse my boasting, but I really feel untouchable."
>_
-
>Chuckle.
>"There's probably truth to that, if you ran through a forest, the trees in your way would be reduced to firewood."
-
>Chuckle.
>"There's probably truth to that, if you ran through a forest, the trees in your way would be reduced to firewood."
> "Huh... Are you the only one in possession of these, or are there others who have these too?"
>_
-
>"Marisa and I are researching them together. Right now, we're trying to determine how it affects different people. The...extremity of the results varies from person to person."
-
>"Marisa and I are researching them together. Right now, we're trying to determine how it affects different people. The...extremity of the results varies from person to person."
> "Huh... Are you keeping some factors consistent and testing others well?"
>_
-
>"We're trying, now. It's difficult, our mushroom supply is limited. Right now, we're trying graceful people, they seem to have gotten the most extreme results."
-
>"We're trying, now. It's difficult, our mushroom supply is limited. Right now, we're trying graceful people, they seem to have gotten the most extreme results."
> "Oh? And what would you consider graceful about someone?"
>_
-
>"That's the hard part. You seem an obvious candidate. I've pondered Sakuya and Yuyuko as well."
-
>"That's the hard part. You seem an obvious candidate. I've pondered Sakuya and Yuyuko as well."
> "The maid? Are you sure there aren't any ulterior motives to considering her?" Iku smiles some.
>_
-
>Chuckle. "Like what?"
-
>Chuckle. "Like what?"
> "A much fuller figure in such an outfit, for one. But I jest. Please excuse me if I've gone out of line."
>_
-
>"Well, it wouldn't be wrong to call it a bonus..."
>"Hm, how does your mind feel at the moment. It's a vague question, answer it as well as you can."
-
>"Well, it wouldn't be wrong to call it a bonus..."
>"Hm, how does your mind feel at the moment. It's a vague question, answer it as well as you can."
> "...Calm. I don't feel like I have any worries. Though, there weren't many before this..."
>_
-
>Nod.
>"Does your mind feel any more clear or sharp?"
-
>Nod.
>"Does your mind feel any more clear or sharp?"
> "Clearer, yes. Sharper? I hadn't felt like considering something yet..." Iku thinks. "Maybe."
>_
-
>"Maybe what?"
-
>"Maybe what?"
> "Thinking about the mushroom..."
>_
-
>"Go on."
-
>"Go on."
> "I can stop, if you'd like to continue other observations."
>_
-
>"No no, this is a part of it. Breakthroughs in terms of thought are also important."
-
>"No no, this is a part of it. Breakthroughs in terms of thought are also important."
> "Might I ask who has been recorded so far and how they were, compared to me?"
>_
-
>"Well, there was Marisa and I, we ended up perhaps a little under half your size, and..."
>Go on through the rest of the details.
-
>"Well, there was Marisa and I, we ended up perhaps a little under half your size, and..."
>Go on through the rest of the details.
> You explain yours and Marisa's changes.
> "So along with grace, there's still a few factors we could consider. I'd expect someone like you to be my size now though, if not more, if we were considering grace."
>_
-
>"Oh, you're just flattering me now. But I agree, you have to be right. Meiling had the most powerful reaction so far..."
-
>"Oh, you're just flattering me now. But I agree, you have to be right. Meiling had the most powerful reaction so far..."
> "We should consider another factor then."
>_
-
>"It is something where Marisa and Patchouli are roughly equal, I am slightly better, Nitori slightly better yet... MInoriko moreso, then Shizuha, then you, and at which Meiling excels the most..."
-
>"It is something where Marisa and Patchouli are roughly equal, I am slightly better, Nitori slightly better yet... MInoriko moreso, then Shizuha, then you, and at which Meiling excels the most..."
> "Honesty? Though, that could be changed easily. What of things that aren't easily changed? Things like their already present body-type, or diet, even?"
>_
-
>"Hmmm. I think our diets all all pretty varied..."
>Is there an ascending difference in body type between the people we've tested on?
-
>"Hmmm. I think our diets all all pretty varied..."
>Is there an ascending difference in body type between the people we've tested on?
> Meiling was the largest in that area, while Marisa could've been the smallest. You think it was proper for the goddesses as well. Iku seems to fit too. You'd suspect it multiplies what's already there. That or it's some other factor.
> "May not be that then..."
>_
-
>Was Shizuha moreso than Minoriko, with regards to body types?
-
>Was Shizuha moreso than Minoriko, with regards to body types?
> They were mostly similar sized, but you think Shizuha was taller...
>_
-
>Was Nitori taller than we were, originally?
>How does Iku's height compare to Meiling's original?
-
>Was Nitori taller than we were, originally?
>How does Iku's height compare to Meiling's original?
> No, you don't think so.
> Iku was close to Meiling, but not past her.
>_
-
>"It wouldn't be just weight, I don't think. I'm sure Shizuha has to be lighter than Minoriko."
-
>"It wouldn't be just weight, I don't think. I'm sure Shizuha has to be lighter than Minoriko."
> "Perhaps it could really just be random..."
>_
-
>"You may be right. It would be unsatisfying after we've pondered it so much, but you may be right."
>"If we could find one or two people that have an extreme reaction to them, something to put Meiling to shame, it would be easy. But if wishes were so easy to grant..."
>"Ah, is there something you'd like to do, or try?"
-
>"You may be right. It would be unsatisfying after we've pondered it so much, but you may be right."
>"If we could find one or two people that have an extreme reaction to them, something to put Meiling to shame, it would be easy. But if wishes were so easy to grant..."
>"Ah, is there something you'd like to do, or try?"
> "The oni?" Shanghai speaks.
> "Suika?" Hourai asks.
> "Not her. The underground one."
> "Something I'd like to try? I don't believe there's much that I could."
>_
-
>"Surely there's something? Perhaps try playing with a electricity harnessing? At a safe distance, of course."
>Have we ever been underground before? Aside from harassing Marisa during the whole hell raven incident? Would we fit?
-
>"Surely there's something? Perhaps try playing with a electricity harnessing? At a safe distance, of course."
>Have we ever been underground before? Aside from harassing Marisa during the whole hell raven incident? Would we fit?
> "That's more of a borrowed thing..."
> You don't think you've visited again since then. You believe you'd fit through the passage.
>_
-
>"I imagine you could borrow quite a bit more freely."
>Hmmm. Underground or trying to find Yuyuko... At least the former has a goal.
-
>"I imagine you could borrow quite a bit more freely."
>Hmmm. Underground or trying to find Yuyuko... At least the former has a goal.
> "I'd like something to use it on, rather than scar the land."
> You weigh your options...
>_
-
>Nod, "I see. Perhaps you could empower yourself with it?"
>Underground would be nice, but we'd also want to test others while we're there, to avoid two trips... But two trips wouldn't be that bad...
-
>Nod, "I see. Perhaps you could empower yourself with it?"
>Underground would be nice, but we'd also want to test others while we're there, to avoid two trips... But two trips wouldn't be that bad...
> "What more could there be to empower in a condition such as this?"
> Your considerations continue. With one pair left, you'd have to stop by the usual area or Marisa for more.
>_
-
>"I suppose that you have a point. Perhaps you should simply move around, and savor the feel of your newfound heights?"
-
>"I suppose that you have a point. Perhaps you should simply move around, and savor the feel of your newfound heights?"
> "That'd be pleasant."
>_
-
>"By all means, then. Take a pirouette as well!"
>Would it be likely to get more mushrooms at this point in the day? It's hard to say... Perhaps worth a quick look after we help out Hina.
-
>"By all means, then. Take a pirouette as well!"
>Would it be likely to get more mushrooms at this point in the day? It's hard to say... Perhaps worth a quick look after we help out Hina.
> Iku does an elegant spin, her cloth flowing in order, keeping it's distance from obstacles such as you.
>_
-
>Let Iku move about to her content, watch to see if anything noteworthy seems to come from it.
-
>Let Iku move about to her content, watch to see if anything noteworthy seems to come from it.
> "You let Iku continue.
> Aside from a nice display and pleasantness, nothing s3ems to come from it.
>_
-
>"Do your thoughts feel any more clear or sharp, now? How is your general feeling?"
-
>"Do your thoughts feel any more clear or sharp, now? How is your general feeling?"
> Iku stops.
> "Nothing new from earlier... I feel nice. This is nice."
>_
-
>Smile.
>"I'm glad to hear that."
-
>Smile.
>"I'm glad to hear that."
> "How long does this last, exactly? I want to make sure I'm not wasting too much time."
>_
-
>"It varies, but generally for a couple to a few minutes. It seems the stronger the effect, the longer it will last."
-
>"It varies, but generally for a couple to a few minutes. It seems the stronger the effect, the longer it will last."
> Iku nods.
> "You said firewood could be made just by toppling trees like I am now, right? What if I struck myself?"
>_
-
>"I imagine you're probably tough enough to take it... I don't think it would hurt you."
-
>"I imagine you're probably tough enough to take it... I don't think it would hurt you."
> "Hm..."
> Iku steps back and away from you slightly...
>_
-
>Give her space.
-
>Give her space.
> You move back as well.
> Iku strikes a pose, and lightning strikes the woman.
> "Nothing much..." She floats up and away a bit more. "I'll try more..."
> "I think that'd start disturbing others..." Hourai says.
> Shanghai nods in agreement.
>_
-
>"We may be too close to town for that, it would cause a disturbance."
-
>"We may be too close to town for that, it would cause a disturbance."
> "Hmph." Iku floats back down.
>_
-
>"Hm, if you feel it will last a bit longer, we could move further away?"
-
>"Hm, if you feel it will last a bit longer, we could move further away?"
> "I don't." Iku shakes her head lightly.
>_
-
>"Pity. Perhaps a stroll into town, then?"
-
>"Pity. Perhaps a stroll into town, then?"
> "That would be nice. I'm sorry for not providing more results."
>_
-
>"Ah, nothing to worry about. You make think of it as not many results, but an empty set is still a result, no? It's still valuable."
>Head toward town and the marketplace. Use all necessary caution.
-
>"Ah, nothing to worry about. You make think of it as not many results, but an empty set is still a result, no? It's still valuable."
>Head toward town and the marketplace. Use all necessary caution.
> You start through the town.
> "I do wish I could have done more. It's such a drastic change."
>_
-
>"Well, if you come up with any last minute ideas. Perhaps we could test your physical strength?"
-
>"Well, if you come up with any last minute ideas. Perhaps we could test your physical strength?"
> "What would last to try against? A tree?"
>_
-
>"A tree, a wagon, perhaps even me."
-
>"A tree, a wagon, perhaps even me."
> "Would you be fine?"
> "She won't be obl-...Destroyed." Hourai says.
>_
-
>Nod.
>"It's been done before."
-
>Nod.
>"It's been done before."
> "By who, might I ask?"
>_
-
>Ugh, who was?
>Answer that correctly =[
-
>Ugh, who was?
>Answer that correctly =[
>To which question? Who tried their strength against you? Who had been destroyed before?
>_
-
>The former.
-
>The former.
> You believe you had someone pick you up before... Marisa, perhaps?
>_
-
>"Marisa, actually. I was, ah, smaller then."
-
>"Marisa, actually. I was, ah, smaller then."
> "How great was the pain?"
>_
-
>"None at all."
-
>"None at all."
> "Hm. That makes it a bit more considerable to try... But I would still rather not."
>_
-
>Nod. "That's fine, that's fine. Just savor the air as you like, so to speak."
-
>Nod. "That's fine, that's fine. Just savor the air as you like, so to speak."
> Iku nods silently.
> You're back at the market, with much less disturbances than previously. Hina is still present at her stand.
>_
-
>"I need to take care of something, one moment please."
>Approach Hina, and produce the clothespins. "Sorry that took so long."
-
>"I need to take care of something, one moment please."
>Approach Hina, and produce the clothespins. "Sorry that took so long."
> Iku nods once more.
> You head over to Hina and show the clothespins.
> "This side hasn't exactly gained me any more customers than the other had." Hina says. "I'll be hoping on what you plan here."
>_
-
>Nod, and help her string some of them up so they've nice and visible.
-
>Nod, and help her string some of them up so they've nice and visible.
> You start to help with what you can at this size...
> The dolls are strung up in a better displaying method than flat on the stand, suspended in the air so that one wouldn't have to approach just to see them.
>_
-
>"There, that should help out. People can see your wares now, and they look much happier like that."
>"Now, in turn, perhaps you could do me a favor?"
-
>"There, that should help out. People can see your wares now, and they look much happier like that."
>"Now, in turn, perhaps you could do me a favor?"
> "Thank you. I'd be happy to repay you with such. What do you ask of me?"
>_
-
>"I would like you to take work orders for me. I am trying to turn my strength into a source of coin, and I need someone to take orders down so I can focus on other things. I'll give you...let's say 2% of the proceeds?"
-
>"I would like you to take work orders for me. I am trying to turn my strength into a source of coin, and I need someone to take orders down so I can focus on other things. I'll give you...let's say 2% of the proceeds?"
> "Work orders? For strength in specific?"
>_
-
>Nod.
>"I expect construction type things, or moving, or the like. Something someone my size can really make a difference in. Hm, I'll trust you to set prices based on the job. Not too high, but don't give it away either."
>_
-
>Nod.
>"I expect construction type things, or moving, or the like. Something someone my size can really make a difference in. Hm, I'll trust you to set prices based on the job. Not too high, but don't give it away either."
>_
> "I'll try to consider it, but I don't plan to be in the village for very long..."
>_
-
>"Do you plan to come back?"
-
>"Do you plan to come back?"
> "Another day, yes."
>_
-
>"That's fine. I would like this to be a long term agreement, since we both profit from it."
-
>"That's fine. I would like this to be a long term agreement, since we both profit from it."
> "Long term huh..." Hina looks a bit down. "Again, I'll... try to consider it."
>_
-
>"Long term in the sense of as long as you come to this village. Once you've decided you're done here, I'll find another way to handle things. This can work in your favor, though! Parents coming to place a request for my services might be tempted to bring a doll home to their children."
-
>"Long term in the sense of as long as you come to this village. Once you've decided you're done here, I'll find another way to handle things. This can work in your favor, though! Parents coming to place a request for my services might be tempted to bring a doll home to their children."
> "And if you aren't available when I return here? Scheduling when we will meet up for this would be a great pain, as I don't have one to follow when it comes to this."
>_
-
>"We'll meet up daily, shall we say? Well, daily so long as you come and go."
-
>"We'll meet up daily, shall we say? Well, daily so long as you come and go."
> "I don't do this daily. It's merely when I have enough that I feel I should try and return them."
>_
-
>"Hmm. Well, we'll see how it works out for today, then?"
-
>"Hmm. Well, we'll see how it works out for today, then?"
> "How should I mention you and what you're capable of? I don't want to exaggerate it."
>_
-
>"I lifted a rooftop and carried it out of town without much difficulty. That should be a good basis."
-
>"I lifted a rooftop and carried it out of town without much difficulty. That should be a good basis."
> Hina nods.
>_
-
>"Let's meet sometime this evening. How long do you intend to stay here?"
-
>"Let's meet sometime this evening. How long do you intend to stay here?"
> "Just a bit longer. I didn't plan on returning here today after leaving... I don't think I might be the best person to ask for these things, and I'm not too interested in the profit either."
>_
-
>"Well, that's a shame. You were someone I could trust."
-
>"Well, that's a shame. You were someone I could trust."
> "It's nice to hear that at least." Hina gives you a smile.
>_
-
>"Still, let's meet up this evening. Even if you don't get anything for me, I'll still want to know if anyone was interested in your dolls."
-
>"Still, let's meet up this evening. Even if you don't get anything for me, I'll still want to know if anyone was interested in your dolls."
> "Back here? Or will I find you elsewhere?"
>_
-
>"What's most convenient for you?"
-
>"What's most convenient for you?"
> "That depends..."
>_
-
>Nod for her to continue.
-
>Nod for her to continue.
> "If you would be fine meeting on the mountain, it'd be easier than, say, meeting in here again."
>_
-
>"That should be fine. Around the same place we met before?"
-
>"That should be fine. Around the same place we met before?"
> Hina nods.
>_
-
>Smile.
>"That should do just fine. Good luck with your dolls."
>Make all proper valedictions and depart. Let's head back to the mushroom grove, and see if we can't find a few more for the purposes of experimenting on underground folk.
>Actually, before we do that, is Iku will with us? If so, is she still under the mushrooms' effects?
-
>Smile.
>"That should do just fine. Good luck with your dolls."
>Make all proper valedictions and depart. Let's head back to the mushroom grove, and see if we can't find a few more for the purposes of experimenting on underground folk.
>Actually, before we do that, is Iku will with us? If so, is she still under the mushrooms' effects?
> You check.
> Iku is with you still, however, she has returned to normal.
>_
-
>Did her time seem any longer than shorter than average?
-
>Did her time seem any longer than shorter than average?
> It definitely seemed longer than normal, even without realizing when it ended exactly...
>_
-
>Have Shanghai note that down.
>"I think it's time for me to continue on with my work, Miss Nagae. Thank you for your help."
-
>Have Shanghai note that down.
>"I think it's time for me to continue on with my work, Miss Nagae. Thank you for your help."
> You briefly command Shanghai.
> "Thank you for having me. It was an interesting experience and I look forward to the next time I'm wanted for it."
>_
-
>"I'll keep you in mind, then."
>Make all proper valedictions and depart. Let's head back to the mushroom grove, and see if we can't find a few more for the purposes of experimenting on underground folk.
-
>"I'll keep you in mind, then."
>Make all proper valedictions and depart. Let's head back to the mushroom grove, and see if we can't find a few more for the purposes of experimenting on underground folk.
> You and Iku part ways.
> You return to the general area. You don't sound alone this time, however.
>_
-
>Listen for the other people. See if we can recognized voices, or maybe other distinct noises.
-
>Listen for the other people. See if we can recognized voices, or maybe other distinct noises.
> You listen...
> It's a group of girls at least. It might just be more fairies...
>_
-
>Let's go see what they're up to, before we get started.
-
>Let's go see what they're up to, before we get started.
> You follow the voices.
> There's a few fairies trying out one of the mushrooms. None of them seem to be changing from it.
>_
-
>Observe for the time being, at least until it seems like they're going to try out another currently untouched mushroom.
>If that happens, approach and say "Ah, excuse me."
-
>Observe for the time being, at least until it seems like they're going to try out another currently untouched mushroom.
>If that happens, approach and say "Ah, excuse me."
> You watch...
> The group finishes up the mushroom with less than unanimous feelings on it's taste, before starting to search for another.
> There don't seem to be any nearby yet...
>_
-
>Let's follow. We'll see how long it takes them to notice. Try not to look threatening.
-
>Let's follow. We'll see how long it takes them to notice. Try not to look threatening.
> You follow the fairies along.
> "Maybe the next one will taste better to you."
> "Well I don't wanna start growing a mushroom on me."
> "You don't have to eat it then."
> "But I wanna eat it..."
> It takes a while, but after one notices the sounds of something big stepping behind them, they alert the others, who turn in surprise.
>_
-
>"Ah, hello there."
-
>"Ah, hello there."
> "A giant!"
> "W-What do you want?" One of the fairies stands her ground.
> The others stand their ground in response... behind her.
>_
-
>"I was here to collect some mushrooms, actually."
-
>"I was here to collect some mushrooms, actually."
> "What kinds of mushrooms?" The fairy asks.
>_
-
>"Well, I believe I just witnessed you all pluck one up."
-
>"Well, I believe I just witnessed you all pluck one up."
> "You're trying to get those?" One of the fairies asks.
> "Mm... You can have a piece of the next one we find, but that's it!"
> "Ooh, good idea..."
>_
-
>"Why do you want them?"
-
>"Why do you want them?"
> "Why do you want them?"
>_
-
>"Research purposes, of course. I am a magician, after all."
-
>"Research purposes, of course. I am a magician, after all."
> "Then you can have just a piece." The fairy says.
> The others nod.
>_
-
>"Pieces are no good. So, why did you want it?"
-
>"Pieces are no good. So, why did you want it?"
> "Cause we know they're gonna do something special if we eat them."
> "Hopefully not grow more mushrooms on us."
> "But if you're not gonna share, you're not gonna get any!" One of the fairies starts to fly up, battle-ready.
>_
-
>"There's more than one kind of sharing. But, allow me to tell you now, they don't work on faeries."
-
>"There's more than one kind of sharing. But, allow me to tell you now, they don't work on faeries."
> "You're just saying that to make us leave and hog them for yourself." The fairy begins to fire at you.
> The others fly back and start to aid her.
>_
-
>Welp, we tried.
>Step back analyze how best to slip through their patterns, and send a wide wave of rainbow shots at them in turn.
-
>Welp, we tried.
>Step back analyze how best to slip through their patterns, and send a wide wave of rainbow shots at them in turn.
> You take a step back and fire a wave of shots at the fairies as you analyze your options.
> The fairies have fired a mass of scattered shots towards you. Thanks to some of their less than perfect aim, a few shots will go wide.
> Given your size, slipping through without damage to your clothes is hardly possible. You don't think you can get through without direct damage either, given the area.
> Retreating further or flying up could give you more room and options, but you're not fast enough to evade their shots in either choice. The misled shots would also make dodging to your sides a bit troublesome, but not impossible if you're not moving towards the fairies.
>_
-
>Let's send another wave, then one lower and more spread out, and move backward and to the sides. Hopefully the size of our gait will help buy some more space.
-
>Let's send another wave, then one lower and more spread out, and move backward and to the sides. Hopefully the size of our gait will help buy some more space.
> You fire off another wide wave, followed by a third as you back off.
> You're ingloriously caught by some of the danmaku before you manage to get off to the side.
> The fairies cut through your first wave, bringing them closer to the third as the lower spread goes wide.
> You are near a tree now. Such won't obstruct any attacks towards the fairies, less they attempt to go for your left side.
> Hourai prepares a laser...
>_
-
>What kind of formation are the faeries in?
-
>What kind of formation are the faeries in?
> They're in a sloppy triangle, more or less. The highest one may be trying to go even higher...
>_
-
>"Aim high, Hourai."
>Send a V-shaped formation toward the lower part of the triangle; where the two tips of the V are a bit wider out than the triangle itself, and the vertex is further back. This should force them to either spread out or get get hit, while those in the middle will be hard-pressed to escape unharmed. Force on coverage first, then speed. The waves within it it will each be their own color, to create a lovely rainbow.
>_
-
>"Aim high, Hourai."
>Send a V-shaped formation toward the lower part of the triangle; where the two tips of the V are a bit wider out than the triangle itself, and the vertex is further back. This should force them to either spread out or get get hit, while those in the middle will be hard-pressed to escape unharmed. Force on coverage first, then speed. The waves within it it will each be their own color, to create a lovely rainbow.
>_
> You fire of a spread in the colors of the rainbow.
> "Signal for us." A few of the fairies speak, before running into the bullets prematurely as they fire towards you.
> The rest of the fairy group heads through the opening created by their comrades' sacrifices.
> Only for all but the higher one to be mowed down by Hourai's laser.
> "She didn't say to fire yet." Shanghai speaks.
> You'd at least prefer if she'd add a bit of flair to the attack...
>_
-
>"I trust Hourai to fire when the time is right."
>Next, let's a few columns of blue shots at the oncoming faerie; the goal being to force her between them. Then follow up with some yellow shoots coming from a left diagonal to cross up the grid. Then green shots from a right diagonal between the yellow. The idea being to make her panic at some point and crash into them.
>_
-
>"I trust Hourai to fire when the time is right."
>Next, let's a few columns of blue shots at the oncoming faerie; the goal being to force her between them. Then follow up with some yellow shoots coming from a left diagonal to cross up the grid. Then green shots from a right diagonal between the yellow. The idea being to make her panic at some point and crash into them.
>_
> You send more danmaku the fairy's way, followed by an assortment of yellow shots in a diagonal, and green to finish the cross.
> As expected, the fairy heads between the blue columns, before starting to back up and attempt to slip through the side at the sight of the approaching cross.
> The previous danmaku has almost reached you. It won't be much to dodge, but neglecting it would get you hit.
>_
-
>Try to sidestep or sideshoulder the oncoming shots, we'll trust the pattern we've woven to deal with that last faerie.
-
>Try to sidestep or sideshoulder the oncoming shots, we'll trust the pattern we've woven to deal with that last faerie.
> You avoid the shots only as much as necessary as you watch your work.
> The fairy fails to make it out completely, pelted by part of the cross, before being defeated.
>_
-
>"Thank you, Hourai. Your aid was most timely."
>Let's proceed, there are mushrooms to find!
-
>"Thank you, Hourai. Your aid was most timely."
>Let's proceed, there are mushrooms to find!
> Hourai nods.
> You proceed through the forest...
> ...
> However, on your own, you find no mushrooms...
>_
-
>Summon another mob of search dolls and send them out,then wait for results.
-
>Summon another mob of search dolls and send them out,then wait for results.
> You create a party of dolls to search again...
> ...
> None return within the usual searching duration...
>_
-
>More patience.
-
>More patience.
> You wait...
> The dolls begin to return, unsuccessful.
>_
-
>Send them off with kind and conciliatory words and a pat on the head, until one announces success, or they all come home.
-
>Send them off with kind and conciliatory words and a pat on the head, until one announces success, or they all come home.
> You show your dolls care as they return...
> You believe that's all you've deployed.
>_
-
>Nothing for it.
>On toward the entrance to the underground.
-
>Nothing for it.
>On toward the entrance to the underground.
> You pass on towards the underground's entrance...
> Nothing bothers you on the way there, and you stand ready to stroll through.
>_
-
>Let's proceed onward. Try to recall what we saw and/or heard when Marisa came through here originally so we can be ready for any hazards.
-
>Let's proceed onward. Try to recall what we saw and/or heard when Marisa came through here originally so we can be ready for any hazards.
> You proceed.
> There were a lot of rocks falling in here, but it doesn't seem that way now. It's calmer.
>_
-
>Onward! Keep an eye upward from time to time.
-
>Onward! Keep an eye upward from time to time.
> You continue on...
> Nothing significant so far... There's a fight nearby, it seems.
>_
-
>Let's go have a look at that, from a comfortable distance.
-
>Let's go have a look at that, from a comfortable distance.
> You stroll over towards the fight.
> It seems to be a few fairies against that spider girl... The latter is winning, by the looks of it.
>_
-
>Let's observe, it would be bad sportsmanship to join in.
-
>Let's observe, it would be bad sportsmanship to join in.
> You take some time to watch the fight.
> The fairies seem to have some nice patterns. Spirals crossing themselves and spreading out further as they travel. You've seen them down here before...
> The spider lady isn't retaliating at the moment yet.
>_
-
>Wait, she'll have something up her sleeve.
-
>Wait, she'll have something up her sleeve.
> You watch...
> The youkai returns fire with a large collection of danmaku, spiraling out from her.
> The fairies fly back quickly in surprise as they take note of the danmaku heading their way.
>_
-
>Nice technique, spirals do not get enough love.
-
>Nice technique, spirals do not get enough love.
> You silently nod.
> Some of the spiral bullets slow and change color, creating another pattern along with the normal one.
> The fairies begin to retaliate with differing combinations. Random firing... A two-way line of shots... Larger shots in a forward burst.
>_
-
>This shouldn't be too bad. Perhaps she can use this formation to her advantage?
-
>This shouldn't be too bad. Perhaps she can use this formation to her advantage?
> The spider backs up in wait as the bullets fly between the two forces.
> Hers reaches the fairies first, and, without the space, some even trapping themselves, the fairies are defeated by the oncoming shots.
>_
-
>Once we are sure the battle is done, give a polite clap.
-
>Once we are sure the battle is done, give a polite clap.
> You watch as the youkai dodges the remaining bullets, before the area clears.
> You give a nice little clap.
> "Huh?" She looks over.
>_
-
>"Hope I'm not intruding. I was passing by and happened to see your little battle."
-
>"Hope I'm not intruding. I was passing by and happened to see your little battle."
> "You are who now?"
>_
-
>Bow.
>"I am Alice Margatroid. It's a pleasure."
-
>Bow.
>"I am Alice Margatroid. It's a pleasure."
> "Kurodani Yamame. What are you doing passing by down here?" The spider girl asks.
>_
-
>"I'm after Yuugi, actually, so I'm on my way to the Ancient City."
-
>"I'm after Yuugi, actually, so I'm on my way to the Ancient City."
> "Oh. Take care on your way there."
>_
-
>"Could I ask for some quick directions?"
-
>"Could I ask for some quick directions?"
> Yamame nods.
> "Keep your eyes out for a bridge. You probably shouldn't miss it if you keep going down like this. It'll lead you towards the city though."
>_
-
>"Thank you. Oh, do you happen to know much about mushrooms?"
-
>"Thank you. Oh, do you happen to know much about mushrooms?"
> "Mushrooms? Uh, why?"
>_
-
>"I'm investigating a rare mushroom, and I am wondering if perhaps it grows underground or not."
-
>"I'm investigating a rare mushroom, and I am wondering if perhaps it grows underground or not."
> "Sorry then, I can't help you. It sounds interesting though. Is there some quality about it that makes it rare or is it just uncommon?"
>_
-
>"We're still trying to work that one out. THat you for your directions, have a good day."
>Once she says her valedictions, unless we she asks us to remain, continue on our way, Look out for that bridge
-
>"We're still trying to work that one out. THat you for your directions, have a good day."
>Once she says her valedictions, unless we she asks us to remain, continue on our way, Look out for that bridge
> "Take care on your way there."
> You depart, searching for the bridge.
> There's more fairies, heading towards your direction. Well, not directly, it seems.
>_
-
> "Take care on your way there."
> You depart, searching for the bridge.
> There's more fairies, heading towards your direction. Well, not directly, it seems.
>_
>Let's head past them and mind our own business. Hopefully they will too. Failing that, consider a few wave formations...
>_
-
>Let's head past them and mind our own business. Hopefully they will too. Failing that, consider a few wave formations...
>_
> You continue as you were, and the fairies slip past you without care.
> The cave continues, your attention flowing from it to the bridge as it comes into sight.
>_
-
>Approach the bridge, and give it a good look-over. And keep an eye out for a certain bridge troll...
-
>Approach the bridge, and give it a good look-over. And keep an eye out for a certain bridge troll...
> You approach...
> Yuugi's actually there with her. She seems to be heading away though.
>_
-
>Ah, helpful!
>"Excuse me!"
-
>Ah, helpful!
>"Excuse me!"
> The green eyed one turns to you.
> "Hm?" She questions.
>_
-
>"I would like to speak with Miss Yuugi, if she has time."
-
>"I would like to speak with Miss Yuugi, if she has time."
> Yuugi stops.
> "What?" She turns.
>_
-
>"Are you busy? I'd like some of your time."
-
>"Are you busy? I'd like some of your time."
> "I'm free. But if you're just gonna read me a story or something, I'll pass." Yuugi examines you.
>_
-
>"Hardly. Before we begin, I don't suppose you happen to know any Mushroom experts in your city?"
-
>"Hardly. Before we begin, I don't suppose you happen to know any Mushroom experts in your city?"
> Yuugi shakes her head.
>_
-
>"Oh well. Then, I would like you to help me with an experiment. All I need is for you to try a pair of mushrooms."
-
>"Oh well. Then, I would like you to help me with an experiment. All I need is for you to try a pair of mushrooms."
> "Try a pair of mushrooms? And what will they do?"
>_
-
>"Nothing harmful; quite the opposite. But it's best to let you discover."
-
>"Nothing harmful; quite the opposite. But it's best to let you discover."
> "Hm. Why me in specific? You need an oni for it?"
>_
-
>"The finest oni, in fact."
-
>"The finest oni, in fact."
> "Hm. If I keep asking, will you keep answering?"
>_
-
>"Well, if you must. But I don't want to prejudice the results. I will say, it is best enjoyed as a surprise, I think."
-
>"Well, if you must. But I don't want to prejudice the results. I will say, it is best enjoyed as a surprise, I think."
> "Is it anything permanent?" The oni inquires.
>_
-
>"No, there shouldn't be."
-
>"No, there shouldn't be."
> "Shouldn't be?"
>_
-
>"No other experiments have shown them. This is about as strong of a promise as I can give."
-
>"No other experiments have shown them. This is about as strong of a promise as I can give."
> "Hm. An effect you'd rather not tell, for something that may or may not be permanent, and choosing an Oni in specific..." Yuugi considers.
>_
-
>"Will almost surely not be permanent, and has been tried several times before. A powerful oni is the only real variant, here."
-
>"Will almost surely not be permanent, and has been tried several times before. A powerful oni is the only real variant, here."
> "Alright. I'll try it out."
>_
-
>Smile and produce the mushrooms. "Just eat both of these at once, then describe what you feel. Shanghai, take notes please?"
-
>Smile and produce the mushrooms. "Just eat both of these at once, then describe what you feel. Shanghai, take notes please?"
> You hold the remaining mushrooms out.
> "Both at once now?" Yuugi takes the mushrooms.
>_
-
>Nod.
-
>Nod.
> You nod.
> Yuugi sends the mushroom pair down, and you wait for the effects...
> Your first observation notes that her growths have passed Meiling's, but not drastically so...
>_
-
>How does she compare to our eleven meters?
>"How do you feel?"
>What other visible effects has it had on her?
-
>How does she compare to our eleven meters?
>"How do you feel?"
>What other visible effects has it had on her?
> It's possible that Yuugi reaches 5 meters... You aren't entirely sure. She is notably taller than Meiling however.
> There's the lengthening of her hair down to her lower body... Her horn seems larger...
> Her outfit hardly seems to have changed...
>_
-
>Does her body shape seem any different?
>Did she seem to hear our question? If not, repeat it.
-
>Does her body shape seem any different?
>Did she seem to hear our question? If not, repeat it.
> Yes. Her figure overall seems a bit bigger... not in the sense of height, but you can't quite put your finger on it. She might be more muscular? You can't tell that well without trying to check, but that would be going out of line.
> You repeat.
> ...
> "Yuugi." Parsee calls.
> "Hm?" She looks over, then to you. "Oh, right. I feel like I just woke up from a great nap. " The Oni stretches.
>_
-
>"Interesting. Anything else?"
-
>"Interesting. Anything else?"
> "A bit. You just want to sit and listen to it?"
>_
-
>"We could stroll."
-
>"We could stroll."
> The Oni looks annoyed.
>_
-
>"Heh, sorry. But yes, I want to hear everything. but you can tell me while doing other things, too."
-
>"Heh, sorry. But yes, I want to hear everything. but you can tell me while doing other things, too."
> "Can't I just demonstrate it? You take one of those too if it works, then we could really show whatever you're trying to find out."
>_
-
>"Certainly, Demonstrate away!"
-
>"Certainly, Demonstrate away!"
> "You're not gonna take this back, are you? Actually, do you mean demonstrate it on something else?"
>_
-
>"Something else, I would prefer to be unbiased, so to speak."
-
>"Something else, I would prefer to be unbiased, so to speak."
> "Of course... Right." Yuugi looks around, her eyes falling over to Parsee.
> "No."
> "Kidding..."
>_
-
>Chuckle. "Oh well."
-
>Chuckle. "Oh well."
> You're responded to with a sigh.
> So what have the others shown you?"
>_
-
>"Some feats of strength, some feats of mental agility, some simply wowing me with their newfound beauty. You may be pleased to know that you largely cannot be hurt right now. If you were to dash through the city over there, you would simply plow through the buildings as if they were grass in a field."
-
>"Some feats of strength, some feats of mental agility, some simply wowing me with their newfound beauty. You may be pleased to know that you largely cannot be hurt right now. If you were to dash through the city over there, you would simply plow through the buildings as if they were grass in a field."
> "And the same goes for anyone else that eats those two?"
>_
-
>Nod
-
>Nod
> "That sounds amazing..." Parsee speaks.
> "Well I'm not gonna plow through the city... And we're sort of inside here, so the walls aren't a choice."
>_
-
>"I'm vaguely surprised by your restraint, but I certainly won't force the issue. But it works with just about anything; trees for instance. Possibly boulders?"
-
>"I'm vaguely surprised by your restraint, but I certainly won't force the issue. But it works with just about anything; trees for instance. Possibly boulders?"
> "If we can spot any..."
>_
-
>"Surely there are some stalagmites around?"
-
>"Surely there are some stalagmites around?"
> "If that's the best we'll get..."
>_
-
>"Unless you happen to know some buildings in the city that need to be demolished? But I'd hope you would have volunteered that information already."
-
>"Unless you happen to know some buildings in the city that need to be demolished? But I'd hope you would have volunteered that information already."
> "Maybe we could ask around."
>_
-
>"Aren't you the deva, isn't this your city?"
-
>"Aren't you the deva, isn't this your city?"
> "I don't know everything that's happening around all the time."
>_
-
"I guess someone else handles the abandoned buildings. Let's go find some!"
-
"I guess someone else handles the abandoned buildings. Let's go find some!"
> "You said this doesn't last forever though. How long will I stay like this?"
>_
-
>"It varies from person to person, but I imagine you'll have a few minutes yet."
-
>"It varies from person to person, but I imagine you'll have a few minutes yet."
> "So what makes it stick longer, exactly?"
>_
-
>"This is what we're trying to determine. But stronger effects seem to last longer, so it is likely you'll experience the same."
-
>"This is what we're trying to determine. But stronger effects seem to last longer, so it is likely you'll experience the same."
> "Hm." Yuugi falls into thought.
>_
-
"So if you'd like to test it out, it's just a question of what you prefer to test it on, and finding it."
-
"So if you'd like to test it out, it's just a question of what you prefer to test it on, and finding it."
> "Why not have her test it on a doll." Parsee speaks.
>_
-
>"I would prefer not to use then in that manner."
-
>"I would prefer not to use then in that manner."
> "You have them explode anyways, don't you?"
>_
-
>"That's different."
-
>"That's different."
> "Fine."
>_
-
>Look over to Yuugi. It's her show, after all.
-
>Look over to Yuugi. It's her show, after all.
> She's looking to you, in expectation for your response to Parsee.
>_
-
>"Let's just go find something in the city, shall we?"
-
>"Let's just go find something in the city, shall we?"
> Yuugi nods.
>_
-
>Let Yuugi lead the way into that city!
-
>Let Yuugi lead the way into that city!
> You let Yuugi guide you away, reaching the underground city after a bit. Another town... possibly more opportunities for money.
>_
-
>Hm. While oni can probably rival our strength, perhaps our sheer size can be useful for leverage. But is oni money even any good?
>Keep an eye open for interesting potential opportunities while following Yuugi. Also take note of just how busy the town is, and how people are reacting to us.
-
>Hm. While oni can probably rival our strength, perhaps our sheer size can be useful for leverage. But is oni money even any good?
>Keep an eye open for interesting potential opportunities while following Yuugi. Also take note of just how busy the town is, and how people are reacting to us.
> You consider if this would even be worthwhile in that way... If you can't use the money elsewhere, you should still be able to get food from here. Possibly even get something to trade above ground even...
> The populace is much livelier than the Human Village was in your trips. There's little order around here, and hardly anyone seems to mind your size. This does not make navigation much easier...
>_
-
>We can be a tad less careful, here. If we need to nudge a slow oni out of the way, that's no problem.
>Does Yuugi seem to be watching her step at all? How are people reacting to her?
-
>We can be a tad less careful, here. If we need to nudge a slow oni out of the way, that's no problem.
>Does Yuugi seem to be watching her step at all? How are people reacting to her?
> She isn't. She's on the look out for something destructible, you believe. Residents that happen in her path avoid getting knocked, aside from those not paying attention.
>_
-
>We can follow in her wake.
>Keep an eye out for likely targets.
-
>We can follow in her wake.
>Keep an eye out for likely targets.
> You trail behind Yuugi.
> It doesn't seem like anyone needs help nearby... No one's struggling with anything at them moment... Nothings ready to be crumbled either...
>_
-
>"Not a bad city you have here, things are in pretty good shape, aren't they?"
-
>"Not a bad city you have here, things are in pretty good shape, aren't they?"
> "Of course. I guess you haven't gotten the chance to actually take your time and enjoy things down here, have you?"
>_
-
>"I can't say that I have."
-
>"I can't say that I have."
> "Well, are you busy now?"
>_
-
>"Not...particularly, now that I think on it."
-
>"Not...particularly, now that I think on it."
> "Then you should stay a while. See everything else that's in pretty good shape."
>_
-
>"I wouldn't mind that, I think. Any place you'd recommend?"
-
>"I wouldn't mind that, I think. Any place you'd recommend?"
> "Well, the tavern of course! Even if you aren't a fan of drinking, it's still a place to socialize."
>_
-
>Chuckle.
>"Well then!"
-
>Chuckle.
>"Well then!"
> "It's also in pretty good shape~"
>_
-
>Chuckle.
>"I'd bet you'd love for them to get a load of you, now."
-
>Chuckle.
>"I'd bet you'd love for them to get a load of you, now."
> "It might be worthwhile. It'd be better to find some way to use this though."
>_
-
>Look around for any sort of rundown place that looks like it needs demolishing.
-
>Look around for any sort of rundown place that looks like it needs demolishing.
> You resume looking around for weary structures...
> However, you still don't manage to catch sight of anything near such a state...
>_
-
>"This place really is well made. Do you simply make your buildings too good to wear down easily, or are worn down ones destroyed at a moment's notice? Perhaps we should go tot the tavern and see how many people you can lift. Perhaps the entire establishment?
-
>"This place really is well made. Do you simply make your buildings too good to wear down easily, or are worn down ones destroyed at a moment's notice? Perhaps we should go tot the tavern and see how many people you can lift. Perhaps the entire establishment?
> "There's not much reason to delay breaking down something that's done for already. I wouldn't doubt that I could carry a few more people though."
>_
-
>"Maybe that could be a challenge for you!"
-
>"Maybe that could be a challenge for you!"
> "Carrying the whole place itself, or everyone in there at a time?"
>_
-
>Chuckle
>"Whichever tickles your fancy, I suppose!"
-
>Chuckle
>"Whichever tickles your fancy, I suppose!"
> "Displacing it might cause a bit of problems, so I'll just- hey, I can just ask out here. Anyone willing to duel or just be lifted up."
> "Nobody will want to duel you like this..." You hear Parsee.
>_
-
>"I wouldn't be surprised if some oni wanted to try her luck."
>Has Parsee been keeping up with us?
-
>"I wouldn't be surprised if some oni wanted to try her luck."
>Has Parsee been keeping up with us?
> You look around.
> She has.
> "I would." She says.
>_
-
>Yuugi said that?
>"Just so."
-
>Yuugi said that?
>"Just so."
> Parsee said.
> "There has to be some that would. Definitely." Yuugi says.
>_
-
>Glance toward Parsee. "You really think you could take her on right now?"
-
>Glance toward Parsee. "You really think you could take her on right now?"
> "I mean I would be surprised if anyone would." Parsee says.
>_
-
>"Ah, I see. I don't know, I'm sure there's some oni more than eager to try her luck."
-
>"Ah, I see. I don't know, I'm sure there's some oni more than eager to try her luck."
> "Sure..."
>_
-
>Well, we'll find out," I say as I continue to follow Yuugi.
-
>Well, we'll find out," I say as I continue to follow Yuugi.
> "Heeeeeey! Anyone wanna have a duel?" Yuugi calls out.
> The attention of the nearby area is focused on you and your guide...
>_
-
>"Go on and try your luck against Miss Yuugi, at her height"
-
>"Go on and try your luck against Miss Yuugi, at her height"
> "Are ya even any stronger than normal?" You hear a voice.
> "Come up and see!" Yuugi retorts.
> "Nevermind."
> "Hmph. This is a limited offer you know. It's not gonna last forever and you'll be missing out if you don't try now."
> There's commotion around the streets now...
>_
-
>Take measure of the commotion. Does it seem mostly positive or negative?
-
>Take measure of the commotion. Does it seem mostly positive or negative?
> Positive, in that you might get to see Yuugi in action like this soon...
>_
-
>"Is no one ready to test their skills? Mmm, how many do you think you could take at once, Miss Yuugi?"
-
>"Is no one ready to test their skills? Mmm, how many do you think you could take at once, Miss Yuugi?"
> "As many that volunteer honestly." Yuugi says. "I already feel like I'm more aware of what's around me, so I could take 'em."
> "You haven't acted like that in the way that you were moving through here..." Parsee speaks.
>_
-
>Smile toward the crowd. "You heard her. Get her!"
-
>Smile toward the crowd. "You heard her. Get her!"
> There's consideration among the streets... None are stepping up yet.
>_
-
>Shrug. "Well, I suppose if you all don't want to step up and see if you can take her down together, there's nothing for it, huh?"
-
>Shrug. "Well, I suppose if you all don't want to step up and see if you can take her down together, there's nothing for it, huh?"
> "I'll give it a shot." You hear someone.
> "Are you just gonna do it here, or somewhere wider?" Parsee asks.
>_
-
>"That's up to them."
>Move to give the two room, and see who the challenger is.
-
>"That's up to them."
>Move to give the two room, and see who the challenger is.
> You move away.
> It's a male Oni. They seem a bit hesitant about this choice...
>_
-
>Yuugi can handle this.
-
>Yuugi can handle this.
> "So, just you?" Yuugi questions.
> "It's worth a try. I'm not busy now anyways."
> "So, just to make sure, no one else wants in?" Yuugi looks around.
>_
-
>"She's offered. You could work together, hit her from multiple sides..."
-
>"She's offered. You could work together, hit her from multiple sides..."
> There's a bit of uproar from your words, though a pair does come up now.
> "This might be enough to start with." Yuugi stretches.
>_
-
>"Maybe. But let's see what happens?"
-
>"Maybe. But let's see what happens?"
> "You wanna wait for more? Are you gonna participate, even?" Yuugi turns to you.
>_
-
>"Oh no, I mean let's see how this goes. Have fun!"
-
>"Oh no, I mean let's see how this goes. Have fun!"
> Yuugi takes to the air, finally facing competition.
> Though, Yuugi's time for the mushroom may be up soon. You expect it to run out mid battle, even if they start right now, which they seem keen on.
>_
-
>That'll be data, too.
>Observe!
-
>That'll be data, too.
>Observe!
> You watch...
> The first opponent begins with two streams of danmaku, quickly passing by Yuugi's sides and leaving gap-filled trails as she takes note of it.
> The other two begin to fire smaller shots towards Yuugi, however, one quickly changes to non-direct shots as they notice the same attack.
> Yuugi fires back with a collection of huge bullets outwards from her as she heads for one of the gap-filled sides.
>_
-
>Make sure they have space, and watch the show!
-
>Make sure they have space, and watch the show!
> Although the gaps are quite huge, Yuugi's figure still catches some of the danmaku. However, it doesn't leave any visible scratch on her clothing, and she continues through unaffected.
> The scattering opponent fires shots more frequently, and with greater speed, floating back to get more distance from Yuugi's slowly oncoming assault.
> "Calm down or you'll hit me and him." The second shifts their aim from Yuugi to their ally for a moment.
> Yuugi's dodging slows as the aimed danmaku reaches her, nudging to the side to keep avoiding it as the field fills.
>_
-
>Mutter: "Doesn't seem to have hampered her maneuverability, at least..."
>Keep watching. Make sure Shanghai is keeping up her notes.
-
>Mutter: "Doesn't seem to have hampered her maneuverability, at least..."
>Keep watching. Make sure Shanghai is keeping up her notes.
> You glance over at your dolls.
> Shanghai isn't taking any notes. She's just watching the battle...
>_
-
>"Do keep taking notes, please, Shanghai."
-
>"Do keep taking notes, please, Shanghai."
> "O-Oh." Shanghai nods, going through her outfit.
> Yuugi... seems to have fired more danmaku from behind her, it seems.
> Ah, it's the previous ones changing when they reach a certain distance... Though, the ones closest to her opponents hasn't changed yet.
>_
-
>Observe. No need to take sides in this.
>Do the other passersby seem to have a favorite?
-
>Observe. No need to take sides in this.
>Do the other passersby seem to have a favorite?
> No. Most are waiting for things to heat up more...
> The opposing side from Yuugi begins to take hits. The first opponent manages to dodge, but the other two do not. They stagger slightly.
> A few more onlookers seem to fly up to the battle, carefully taking an area amidst Yuugi's danmaku.
> Things seem to calm some as the two sides take their time weaving through the field.
> It's definitely about time Yuugi changed back, but it hasn't happened yet.
>_
-
>Quietly: "Note down how long it takes her to change back from this point, Shanghai."
>Observe until something pertinent to the experiment happens, the battle ends, or something otherwise noteworthy happens.
-
>Quietly: "Note down how long it takes her to change back from this point, Shanghai."
>Observe until something pertinent to the experiment happens, the battle ends, or something otherwise noteworthy happens.
> Shanghai nods.
> You continue watching as things steadily heat up. More and more residents are starting to join, and the scene is spanning out over a larger area.
> Yuugi declares that one 3-step knockout spellcard...
> There's an intense rumbling, and you feel a bit off balance.
>_
-
>Let's make sure we are well out of the way.
-
>Let's make sure we are well out of the way.
> You retreat further away.
> A large amount of danmaku bursts from Yuugi, settling around her and keeping others away. Though, it's far too tightly packed and doesn't cover a large area...
> There's another, stronger rumbling...
>_
-
>Try to identify the source of the rumbling.
-
>Try to identify the source of the rumbling.
> It doesn't seem to be coming from the ground below... You consider Yuugi, but she's in the air...
> Some of the structures are starting to shake.
>_
-
>Give the structures some clearance, too.
-
>Give the structures some clearance, too.
> You try your best, given your size...
>_
-
>Nothing for it but to observe.
-
>Nothing for it but to observe.
> You return your attention.
> Another large ring of danmaku expands over the previous one, reaching much farther and knocking down some of the unlucky combatants to be caught. The rest back up considerably.
> There's yet another incredible rumbling as some of the lesser structures show signs of imminent collapse.
>_
-
>Back away a bit more, and watch. She knows what she's doing.
-
>Back away a bit more, and watch. She knows what she's doing.
> You stumble back as the field fills with danmaku, fiercely knocking down many of the combatants, before it and the first ring begin to spread outwards from Yuugi.
> "Is this really fine?" Shanghai questions.
>_
-
>"There isn't much we can do about it, I think..."
-
>"There isn't much we can do about it, I think..."
> "You could ask her to stop."
> The second wave spreads out as the rumbling begins again.
>_
-
>"I doubt she'd listen at this point!"
-
>"I doubt she'd listen at this point!"
> "I can't take notes like this." Shanghai says.
> Opponents are gathering themselves again and firing towards Yuugi.
>_
-
>"Just get behind me, both of you."
-
>"Just get behind me, both of you."
> Your dolls do so.
> "Don't fall on us." Hourai warns.
>_
-
>"I'll do my best."
>Continue to observe. This was a terrible idea, but it must be seen through for the sake of advancement!
-
>"I'll do my best."
>Continue to observe. This was a terrible idea, but it must be seen through for the sake of advancement!
> The first wave repeats.
> "I was wondering when you guys were gonna start attacking again." Yuugi speaks. "Keep it up!"
> Another rumbling as buildings begin to collapse outright, and you find it nearly impossible to stand.
>_
-
>Let's kneel down, then. Slow enough that the dolls can keep behind us.
-
>Let's kneel down, then. Slow enough that the dolls can keep behind us.
> You try to kneel slowly, falling over instead.
> The ground feels like it's moving underneath you.
>_
-
>Just keep still, brace ourself, try not to fall back.
-
>Just keep still, brace ourself, try not to fall back.
> The second stops as another ring of danmaku surrounds the first.
> The remainders seem to be attempting to move in, but none of them can get by the second ring safely...
>_
-
>Observe as well as we can, and brace ourselves for a third ring.
-
>Observe as well as we can, and brace ourselves for a third ring.
> You try to figure out who's left and... well, Yuugi definitely doesn't look like she'll go down anytime soon. She's dodging what she can within the small ring, but still getting hit sometimes. You aren't sure if they're doing anything... She's still changed too.
> Another tremble as the remainders force themselves into the second ring, evading the third's formation.
> There seems to be debris from above now... You're not sure if this is just buildings or something higher.
>_
-
>Look upward and determine there's any problems there.
-
>Look upward and determine there's any problems there.
> You glance upwards...
> The sky is falling...