> Which side, from our perspective?
> Oh, so she's given up the two-handed hold and her left hand is now free?
> How quickly can we stop, turn around, and resume running?
> What about changing our angle of running?
> If we wanted to gradually change our angle of running so we're running in an arc, how much speed would that lose?
> What if we wanted to do a sharp 90 degree turn?
> Is Meira directly behind us, or is she behind us to one side?
> Gently arc our running to the right a bit.
> How much of a lead to we have on Meira now?
> How much time is that, in terms of her speed?
> So if we stopped and turned around, she'd already be right on top of us?
> Keep running in our current direction for three seconds, then make another game note.
> Let's say we wanted to end this before it got any worse by stabbing Meira in the base of the neck, committing to such a stab regardless of how she acts, including slashing at us. If we get slashed in, say, the side, how much ability would we have to ignore the pain for a split enough second to make sure we see the stab through to the end?
> would we improve these chances if we stabbed with a two=handed grip instead of one?
> How long does Companion take to activate?
> Prepare ourselves for an overwhelming scent of cherry blossoms.
> Stop and face Meira properly in a defensive stance.
> Dart in toward Meira, holding our right-hand sword to the side of our body, with our hand practically up against our right hip, so that the sword is pointing diagonally forward. Our goal is not to stab at Meira with this sword; it's only job is to serve as a slash shield.
> At the same time, launch a thrust at the base of Meira's neck with our left-hand sword.
> Take that moment, then.
> Does Meira look like she's able to continue?
> How's that cherry blossom smell?
> Place the point of our left-hand sword on her neck while sheathing our right-hand sword. This motion should be measured and assertive, rather than quick and aggressive. (If she's on her stomach, prod ever-so-gently so she's definitely aware it's there. If she's on her back, don't bother prodding.)
> Once our right-hand sword is sheathed, put our hand over our mouth to ease the smell.
> "Yield."
> Struggling to speak, or simply to stand up?
> "I said yield."
> Take a slightly deeper breath and hold it.
> Draw our right-hand sword and raise it upward, ready to be swung down at Meira's neck. Do not swing yet.
> I'm sorry, Meira. It didn't have to be like this.
> Bring our right-hand sword down on her neck to end this.
>Hold previous command
>Would it be possible NOW to sunder the power from her, and put it in ourselves to carry back?
> Could we also possibly use Sunder once Meira's knocked out, and take the Saigyou Ayakashi's power into ourselves then?
>Well, why would it be a very bad idea?
> Before we do that, say "I'm sorry Meira."
> Swing our left-hand sword up, and then bring it slicing down on her neck.
> Jump!
Also, next time (if we get a next time), we're not saying anything. There's a reason I internalized that apology - talking just gave her more of a warning.
> As we're coming down from our jump, bring our sword down in a stab at her right side.
> Phew.
> Poor thing, being given hope to restore what she believes is her true way of life, only to have necessity take it away. How cruel life is. Particularly when Seiga is involved.
> How's that cherry blossom smell?
> How close are we to the Sanzu River now?
> Is Komachi visible?
> Wave Kotohime over.
> "Hey!"
> While she's on her way, sheathe our left-hand sword and acquire Miko's sword.
> About how far away, timewise, is that ferry?
> Nod with an frown.
> "Your sentiments are appreciated. I am still conflicted about this entire situation, however. But I must set my personal concerns aside for the time being. We must bring her back to the Netherworld, so the Saigyou Ayakashi's life force can be restored to its proper place."
>What do we think of Komachi, and in return what does she think of us? Same for Eiki Shiki.
> How long is Meira likely to be out, given the number we just did on her?
> "Well, the life force must be restored. How that is done is of little concern to me, as long as no one else is harmed."
> Nod.
> "I am fine."
> How far away is the Netherworld from here?
> How far away is the Hakurei Shrine from here?
> "That is fine. This was something I needed to do, anyway. Say, can you at least help me move Meira to the dock? Perhaps Komachi will have an idea of what to do, or maybe even Lady Shiki."
> "That would be a good idea, yes. Please do."
> Stick Miko's sword in the ground temporarily.
> Use our now-free hands to lift Meira and put her on our back, with her arms and legs draped in front, as if we were giving her a piggy-back ride.
> Retrieve Miko's sword and begin trekking toward Komachi's pier on foot with Meira as cargo.
> Could we sling Meira over the saddle of the horse so that we don't have to carry her everywhere?
> How far away is the boat now?
> Stick Miko's sword in the ground again and wave back.
> "This horse is Meira's, actually. Here, please help me get her onto the horse, so I don't have to carry her around everywhere."
> Assuming Kotohime obliges, get Meira up on the horse in whichever fashion she is more likely to stay on the horse (either in the regular riding position or just draped across the saddle on her stomach).
> How's that cherry blossom smell, or that sense of death?
> "She is not. She is merely unconscious. But there's another issue. Can you sense it from her?"
> "That sensation you feel is because she is currently in possession of the Saigyou Ayakashi's life force."
> "Indeed. It seems the blue loop-haired woman I asked about earlier bestowed it upon her, and has generally been the cause of all of Gensokyo's headaches today. But she is a secondary concern right now. I must return the Saigyou Ayakashi's life force to its proper place, but I do not know how to get this noblewoman here to the Saigyou Ayakashi, nor do I know how to transfer the life force from one being to another."
> Frown.
> "No ideas, then?"
> How do we normally get back to Hakugyokurou?
> Do we know what kind of contact Komachi has with the Yama?
> "I see...I dislike asking this, because I know you are both busy, but...would Lady Eiki have any ideas?"
> "I see."
> Look around the area.
> "Yukari-sama, are you watching or listening?"
> Which would be faster, flying round-trip to the Hakurei Shrine or leading the horse to the PrismRiver manor?
> Where is the nearest major/notable location that could be traveled to by horse?
> Erk. Uh, what's closest that's at least somewhat people-friendly?
> Can we travel on land to the Human Village without crossing through Yuuka's territory?
> "I suppose that is true."
> Turn to Kotohime.
> "I'm afraid I must ask another favor of you. I will take Meira and her horse to the Human Village. I need you to return to the Hakurei Shrine and have anyone there meet me in the Village if they are fit to travel and can help remove the Saigyou Ayakashi's life force from Meira."
> "Splendid, thank you."
> Turn back to Komachi.
> "There are still a few loose ends regarding the loop-haired woman, but the immediate issue is now mostly addressed. I suppose I should inform you, however, that Meira was on her way here to enlist the help of a recently-captured disgraced shinigami. At the loop-haired woman's suggestion, of course."
> "You are quite welcome. I don't know if this loop-haired woman will persist in this effort or not, though, so it may be best to send a warning to Higan. She is particularly amoral; just today, on top of the Saigyou Ayakashi's life for, she has stolen her former master's sword..."
> Gesture back to Miko's sword in the ground.
> "...as well as a wand from a young lady in a bucket underground."
> "Hmm? I will look into it for you, certainly, but I do not know where this loop-haired woman is. She, ah, is a hermit, and as such is difficult to find."
>Would Miko know by any change where she is?
> "Her former master did find her recently, at least, which is how I knew to come here. I will at least ask if she is able to find the wicked hermit again and retrieve the wand, since she was actually the one who first informed me that it had been stolen."
> Nod.
> "When I return her sword, I will do so then."
> "Huh. Is the girl in the bucket a friend of yours?"
> ...Had we heard of this?
> Blink.
> "...Really now? Well then."
> Put on a thoughtful face.
> "I suppose that explains her hair style. Why does she live underground and not with you, though?"
> "Hm. To each their own, I suppose. Regardless, I will definitely do what I can to retrieve that wand for you."
> Nod, then turn back to Kotohime.
> "Are you ready?"
> "Very well. I shall see you again soon, at the Human Village."
> Turn back to Komachi.
> "And I will keep you updated as to the status of that wand. Farewell!"
> Retrieve Miko's sword, retrieve the horse, and begin the walk back to the Human Village.
> Given Futo's condition and the feelings we're getting from Reimu, would it be safe to leave Futo here with Reimu, if we wanted to travel elsewhere?
> Where were we told that this Wriggle youkai dwells, again?
> What exactly is Reimu doing? Is it something with which we could help?
> "Mmm. If I may briefly interrupt your downtime, Reimu, would you be able to tell me where a youkai by the name of Wriggle dwells?"
> Nod.
> "Thank you. And yes, I suppose the question is rather non-sequitur, but Seiga's misdeeds are not the only mystery I have come upon this day, and I suppose now is as good a time as any to investigate those others."
> Stand up, if we haven't already.
> "That would be ideal. Conflict will only make this particular journey longer and more difficult."
> Head back around behind the shrine in search of Tojiko.
> "Hello, dear. Would you be willing to accompany me on something of a side investigation, while we wait for news from Miss Konpaku and her friend?"
> "I do have reservations about leaving her, yes. But i do not want her to move until she has recuperated properly, and this location is one of the least likely in this land for ill to befall her. I trust Reimu to leave her be."
> Purse our lips in thought.
> "Mmm. Do you feel you would be best served staying here with her, then?"
> How far away is the mouse's forest shop?
> How long has it been since Reimu issued her two-hour ultimatum?
> "You mean to pursue Youmu? Or to depart for somewhere else?"
> "Mmm. If Reimu is indeed planning to depart soon, then perhaps it would indeed be better for you to stay here..."
> Take a glance over at the pond.
> Look back to Tojiko.
> "Mmm, I see. Well, let us at least pick their minds out front, so a proper decision can be made. I would like to be present when Youmu returns, so a speedy departure is preferable."
> Make our way back out front.
> Take a look over at Futo. Is she asleep yet?
> Look back to Reimu.
> "Would you like some assistance before I depart?"
> Nod.
> "Very well. I hope to return shortly."
> Give a smile and a small wave to our companions, and then take flight and head back into the Forest of Magic, to the mouse's shop.
> Best to avoid them, then. What options do we have for such?
> Let's try going around. We have a little bit of time leeway.
> Any openings in these fairy clouds between us and the forest?
> Fortunee favors the bold! Go for the gap between the first and second groups.
> Do they seem to have spotted us?
> Are they traveling faster than us?
> Are they flying at our level, or are they higher or lower than us?
> Descend a bit while continuing onward.
> Speed up if we can.
> Ugh.
> Just keep going. Don't bother engaging them unless they engage us first.
> Are they coming from behind, or a side?
> Keep on going ahead, then. At least they have to approach at an angle, and we might be able to get away before they properly catch up.
> Speed up just a bit more, if we can.
> Are they going to catch up before we reach the forest?
> Sigh.
> Keep going for another few seconds, and then slow down and let the persistent fairies catch up to us.
> Turn and face the fairies properly.
> How thickly clumped is this initial group of fairies?
> Fire off two nondirect sources, one ahead and a bit to the left, the other ahead and a bit to the right, that each do a three-round circular burst.
> Fire off a arc-shaped wave of the explodey bullets, then turn back around and high-tail it to the forest, sparing a glance or two back to see if the two remaining close fairies got caught in the blasts or not.
> Can we leave nondirect sources in our wake as we fly?
> How large is the fairy in question?
> Has the other one dropped?
> Get back to heading to the forest.
> Is our neck bow tied all the way around our neck, or is it purely a frontal decoration?
> Take another glance back to see if the knee-high fairy is still following us, then turn back around again and continue high-tailing it to the forest.
> Turn back to look ahead and traverse the rest of the way to the forest.
> Take it! The less we deal with these tiny monstrosities, the better.
> Give the mouse a contemplative look, as though we are deciding whether or not to do something significant, then pull out the key and study it, pointedly looking at it instead of the mouse.
> "It is, perhaps, not my place to instruct you how to run your business establishments, but I would advise more carefully inspecting your wares before presenting them to the public for sale."
> Side-eye the mouse for a second, then return our focus to the key.
> "In a way. I have been told it carries a doom upon it. A rather potent one."
> Look at the key in silence for a couple more seconds, then lightly snort with a grin.
> "Typical."
> Stow the key away.
> "Quite."
> Put on the slightest of grins.
> "Give your matriarch my regards."
> Head westward, looking out for any dwellings.
> Might as well.
> Head to this mushroom building and knock on the door.
> "Good day. My apologies for disturbing your slumber. I am presently searching for a youkai named Wriggle. Are you the one I seek, or do you know where I may find her?"
> "Ah. Are the clouds of fairies harassing you as well?"
> "No interference with anyone will be necessary."
> Pull out the key.
> "I understand you previously in ownership of this key. Is that correct?"
> "That would make sense. It is my understanding that you discovered this key on the mountain, some time ago, before selling it to the curio shop. At the very least, this is what the mountain shrine maiden tells me."
> "Ah, splendid. Now, I understand it was indeed some time ago, but I was wondering if you could tell me anything at all about how you came into this key. Its location on the mountain would be particularly helpful, if possible."
> How long a trip is it to the kappa village from here?
> Based on what we remember from just being outside the forest, what does the fairy weather between here and the mountain look like?
> "Do you happen to remember where you discovered it relative to the location of the village? Perhaps north, or east, or some other direction?"
> Nod. (Try not to ruin our hair on the underside of the cap of the mushroom.)
> "I understand. Thank you for your information, it should prove very valuable in my investigation."
> Nod again. "If it means anything to you at this juncture, it is exceedingly likely that no kappa owned this. A spinning dancer of the mountain has informed me that this key carries quite a substantial doom upon it."
> "Yes, it does not seem to have affected me yet either. But something of this caliber is better dealt with than left to its own devices, I think."
> "I do not believe so. Thank you again. I wish you the best of luck in obtaining some rest."
> What is further down the road in this direction?
> "And you as well."
> Head back east, to the forest entrance.
> Check sky for fairy swarms.
> How high or low in the air are these groups?
> The one that's close to the ground, where it is now directionally relative to us?
> In which direction is the Hakurei Shrine?
> In which direction is Youkai Mountain?
> Take flight and head east, but stay very close to the ground.
> How's the north sky looking?
> Head north, maintaining our current altitude.
> We gotta get back to where we're going somehow, and these fairies are less likely to pursue us given the distance.
> Keep heading forward with attention paid upwward, in the interest of noticing any stray bullets that come our way.
> Can we tell if any of the fairies are paying attention to us?
> Can we tell if the cloud is starting to descend?
> Keep heading northward, then.
> Phew.
> Keep heading northward, angling toward the east once we're further away from that lower cloud of fairies to the east, and head back toward the Hakurei Shrine.
> Nod with a slight smile. A genuine smile, not like one of those smirks that the Buddhists get.
> Let them continue their conversation as we make our way over to Futo.
> Gesture to those that are still awake.
> Take on a soft tone of voice, so as to not disturb our sleeping friend.
> "Please, continue."
> Sit down gently next to Futo.
> How does the fairy weather look between here and Youkai Mountain?
> Nod.
> "As much as could be. The young insect lady told me what she could, which is all I could ask for, given I was requesting memories of years ago. I have learned that my next destination is the forest to the southwest of where the kappa dwell."
> "That would make sense, yes."
> "Yes, there is a reason I returned here first. Even simply traveling between here and the Forest of Magic was a less-than-pleasant experience. It may be wise to simply wait them all out."
> "For how long do such things typically last, anyway?"
> Frown.
> "Could it be that what Seiga has done has caused this?"
> Groan and rub the side of our face with our hand in frustration.
> "Please, and thank you."
> Take it with a nod.
> "Your hospitality is most appreciated."
> Sip.
> "Mm, this is quite flavorful. Do I taste a hint of orange in this?"
> "Mmm, I see."
> Have another sip.
> Have a look northward ourselves. Anything interesting that way?
> !
> Stand up slowly so as to not disturb Futo, then take flight and head out to her.
> Raise both eyebrows in mild shock.
> "Really now? Impressive."
> Does that wave look like it will catch all of them?
> Follow along, just in case, preparing a nondirect source to fire off three-waves of bullets in a semicircle away from us, but not releasing it yet.
> "Hmm, that can be arranged. I assume she wishes to return my sword, as per our agreement?"
> "It most likely is, then."
> Look to Reimu.
> "Will you be joining us? Or would you prefer to stay here?"
> "Very well. Before that, however, please pardon me as I say a quick good-bye."
> Fly back down to Tojiko.
> Nod.
> "It seems ghostly gardener has done her job."
> Nod with a smile.
> "Thank you, my dear. I shall return as soon as is prudent."
> "Splendid. Be well until next time."
> Take flight and rejoin Reimu and Youmu's wannabe-girlfriend.
> Is there anywhere immediately visible where the horse could get these things that it needs? If so, head there. If not, head into town and look around for such a place.
> Is the well public use?
> In which compass direction is the Hakurei Shrine?
> Head toward the aforementioned well.
> Is there anywhere to pour water for the horse to drink?
> Draw some water, then pour it into the trough.
> Draw another bucket and add it to the trough. Hopefully that will be enough for the time being, we don't want to use too much of the communal water.
> Hopefully not too much water left over in the trough?
> Put the bucket back where it belongs.
> How's our view of the east sky from here?
> How's Meira doing?
> The Temple didn't give us any oddball looks on our way by, did they?
> Could we travel eastward from here, or would we need to move along a north/south-running road first?
> Is there anywhere in the immediate vicinity where we could tie the horse without being rude? Perhaps the well?
> If so, tie the horse to whatever thing we find, then head toward the Myouren Temple proper while on foot.
> Give a return wave.
> "I do not, but your concern is appreciated."
> Hold up Miko's sword so it is easier to see.
> "I do, however, wish to warn you that she is likely on her way, or at least one of her subordinates."
> "Of course."
> Lower the sword, then gesture to the horse.
> "I will need to take this human and her horse with me. Do you have any suggestions for a safe place for them?"
> Shake head.
> "It is a bit of a convoluted story, but this is the result of a duel between the two of us. She is currently in possession of the life force Seiga stole from my home, and she refused to return it when asked."
> "She seemed to be of sound mind when we spoke before our duel, though perhaps an argument could be made about her condition as the battle wore on. Rather, it seems Seiga instilled her with this life force for the purposes of boosting her power."
> Move over to pet the horse gently to calm it down.
> Take on a quieter, more pleasant tone.
> "Shh, shh, it's okay."
> Resume the casual conversation tone, but keep our voice at the same volume.
> "No worries, it's not your fault."
> Continue petting the horse.
> "Seiga originally stole the life force energy of the Saigyou Ayakashi, a grand youkai cherry blossom tree, through some Taoist technique I could sense but not identify. I am guessing she bestowed that energy upon this woman using a similar ritual. It now strengthens her greatly, and the sense of death and smell of cherry blossoms gradually grew over the course of the battle. It was good I landed the finishing blow when I did, as the cherry blossoms smell was so great at that point that I was nearly choking on it."
> Nod.
> "It can, and will. That is actually the reason she is coming to town; she has agreed to help return the life force energy to its proper place."
> "I will take whatever I can get to restore the Saigyou Ayakashi's life force to its proper place."
> Glance down at Miko's sword in our hand.
> "I do rather expect she will not double-cross me, however, if only because I imagine she wants her sword back."
> Frown.
> "I would rather the Saigyou Ayakashi itself not be subject to that."
> "Oh, my apologies. I figured you were using the term just for removing the Saigyou Ayakashi's life force from this woman. It is my understanding that it can be placed in something or someone else, at which point it can be returned to where it belongs."
> "I admit I cannot say, since I don't really know much about this. But to me, it stands to reason that if Taoism can make this mess, then Taoism can clean it up."
> "Do you mean for the process in particular, or just in general?"
> "Ah, yes. I would like a safe place for the horse and rider, such that the horse can rest while I wait for whoever is coming to assist me. I will take no offense if such a place is not near here."
> Shake head.
> "I would not force upon you the presence of those that I am expecting. I may look into the feasibility of the tavern."
> "No, I completely understand."
> Give a bit of a uncertain look.
> "If...I may say so, I believe both, ah, 'factions' are better people than each gives the other credit for. But that is merely my opinion and experience with all of you, and I understand that your opinion and experiences differ substantially. I have planned from the beginning to avoid forcing their presence upon you. Theatrical performance aside, but that's a bit different."
> Nod.
>"Thank you for your understanding. Actually, come to think of it, is your matriarch presently preoccupied?"
> "Once I am ready to return home, if she is willing, I would be most appreciative if she joined us, in the interest of Hakugyokurou's theatrical performance. It is quite likely that all five planned cast members will present in the Netherworld at the same time, which will give Yuyuko-sama the opportunity to do what she needs to do."
> "Aside from both your matriarch and theirs, the local constable has agreed to take part, and Reimu seems to have accepted the fact that her participation has been specifically requested. I am hoping the fifth will be the hell raven from underground; she is currently somewhere in the Netherworld - it's a long story - so I will be asking her when I return, and I am rather confident she will not decline."
> "Ah, thank you. Farewell until we meet again."
> Retrieve the horse and lead it to the tavern.
> Is there anywhere in the immediate vicinity where we could inoffensively tie the horse?
> Tie the horse to the hitching post, and then take flight and pursue the blue-dress person, Mikosword in hand.
> Damn, not Seiga. Oh well.
> Just remember, we're not here to cause any trouble.
> Give Keine a friendly wave.
> "I actually do not. I just needed to make sure you weren't the person I've been chasing all day. My apologies for the interruption."
> Nod.
> "Thank you, and I will."
> Head back to the horse.
> Give the horse a gentle pat, then enter the tavern.
> "I am here mostly to wait for others coming from the Hakurei Shrine. May I presume they have not arrived yet?"
> "...I suppose that was a rather silly question. Very well, I shall keep watch for them outside. Thank you."
> Exit the tavern and keep watch toward the eastern sky.
> Point toward the figure in blue flying about.
> "Perhaps we should inquire with someone that is likely to have seen recent visitors."
> Follow!
> Give the woman a smile and a wave.
> "Ah, your message was delivered, by the way."
> Follow Reimu some more.
> Youmu: Look up and wave at the arrivals. "Hoy!"
> Miko: Swoop down, land, and gesture to the unconscious woman. "Is this her?"
> Youmu: "Yes."
> Miko: Inspect the unconscious woman.
> Youmu: Smile and nod in return. "Thank you."
> Miko: Frown. "Something is off about this woman."
> Youmu: Look over. "Well, she does still possess the life energy of the Saigyou Ayakashi. Perhaps that is the problem?"
> Miko: Can we detect said life force? Is that the problem?
> Miko: How much time? A few minutes?
> Miko: Would it help if we put a hand on her, or something similar?
> Miko: Let's say we do find the energy inside this woman. Would we be able to extract it, given Seiga presumably used Taoist methods to get it there in the first place?
> Miko: Assuming we are able to extract the energy, would we be able to store it inside ourselves, or another person, given it is presently inside a person?
> Miko: What may happen if it is stored within a person?
> Miko: What would function as a vessel? Could it be any ol' object, or is something special required?
> Miko: "Assuming the life force of this tree is indeed still inside her, I believe I can extract it. A proper investigation may take a few minutes, however."
> Miko: Look to Youmu. "Before that commences, however, I wish to know any information you may have that may aid me. Tell me everything of your battle with this woman that you feel is noteworthy."
> Youmu: Give a thoughtful look. "Hmm...Before we began, she seemed normal enough. Determined to see her mission through, but I guess that must just be who she is. Regardless, she had remarkable stamina, taking far more punishment than I expected a human could take throughout the course of the battle, and rarely being slowed down by it. Also, throughout the course of the battle, she exuded a sensation of death, which grew stronger and stronger...it also eventually came with a scent of cherry blossoms, which eventually became so overpowering I had to retreat a bit before I choked on the smell. She also seemed to become angrier and less rational as she took more blows; by the time the cherry blossom smell was becoming a problem, she was downright furious, and no longer speaking at all. She never faltered in her battle prowess, however, until, well."
> Youmu: Gesture at Meira's prone body.
> Miko: Given the life force is that of a youkai cherry blossom tree, what of this information sounds relevant to the issue at hand?
> How long would it take to prepare such an object?
> Miko: Assuming we are able to successfully extract the life force and place it inside another thing, be it object or person, is there a risk of it escaping over time?
> Miko: "Mmm. The sensation of death and the cherry blossom scent are almost assuredly related, as obvious as that may seem on the surface."
> Youmu: "Well, it is the life force of of a youkai cherry tree from the Netherworld."
> Miko: "Quite."
> Miko: Sigh.
> Miko: "I will be completely honest with you all. If I am to extract this life force from this woman, it will need to be placed somewhere else, lest it be loosed on this land, which I imagine would end very poorly. The problems are that a proper vessel would take days to prepare, but using another person is rather dangerous to that person."
> Miko: Look to Youmu.
> Youmu: Shrug. "There were lots of talismans everywhere, then Seiga did...something, and they all burned up, and that was it. I could feel that something had transpired, but I couldn't really identify it."
> Miko: What does this sound like?
> Miko: Would such a ritual be needed to remove the youkai life force from that woman's body? Or do we have alternate methods?
> Miko: How long would such a ritual take to perform?
> Miko: "That sounds like a transferral ritual. Hmm, now that I think back on it, I recall sensations from the tree that suggested something similar to the rituals we performed for ourselves, to come to be who we are now."
> Miko: Inventory
> Miko: Would Reimu's talisman's be usable for such a task, or would we have to write them up ourselves?
> Miko: Nod. "I should be able to, if there are talismans available for me to use. I currently have none in my possession."
> Miko: How many talismans would be necessary?
> Miko: Would we need anything else material for the ritual, beyond the talismans (and the writing tools necessary to create them)?
> Miko: Could we bypass the need for a vessel if we transferred the energy directly back into the tree from the prone woman?
> Miko: "Possibly. But let me test something first, as time is a substantial hindrance to our options."
> Miko: Make our way over to the prone woman and lift her off the horse to check how heavy she is.
> Miko: So odds are we wouldn't be able to fly around while lugging her along, would we?
> Miko: Frown again, and gently lay the woman back down on the horse. "Unfortunate."
> Youmu: "Yeah, it wasn't very easy even just getting her on the horse."
> Miko: "It seems we have a decision to make. Transferring the life force to a vessel is the safest option, but the process will take several days. Transferring the life force into one of us is the fastest option, but it will put the carrier at great risk. Carrying her body to the tree avoids the problems of both these options, but I sincerely doubt any of us is capable of supporting the extra weight for as long as necessary, particularly with the lengths of those stairs. This also carries the risk of her waking up before arrival and being uncooperative, if not outright hostile."
> Miko: Cross arms and look at Reimu and Youmu. "Proper incident resolution is more your areas of expertise than mine, so I will leave the decision to you. I will help as I can with the actual transferral process, but you will have to forgive me for not being able to completely devote my time to a task that is several days long."
> Youmu: Look to Reimu with an uncertain frown. "What do you think? I'd like to see this done as quickly as possible, but I understand our priorities may not completely line up."
> Miko: Did we learn precisely how Seiga carted off the energy?
> Miko: If we inspected our sword, would we be able to tell if it was used as a vessel, or if it were prepared to be one?
> Youmu: Shake head. "The zombie was captured when Seiga escaped."
> Miko: "Yoshika was still present when I arrived to inspect the tree. I am not 100% sure how Seiga transported the energy, but it seems logical to believe she used some sort of vessel. It seems she had been in contact with this woman for quite some time; it is very likely she had spent the time to perform the necessary preparations."
> Miko: Frown in thought. "Mmm..."
> Miko: Look to Youmu, and gesture at our sword. "...May I see that for a moment? You may keep hold of it if you wish."
> Youmu: Frown uncertainly, then hold Miko's sword up horizontally in front of us, pointed to one side.
> Miko: Make our way to our sword and inspect it for vessel use.
> Miko: Step back. "Well, she did not use this sword. I suppose it would have been quite a feat to do so, given she only obtained it this morning."
> Miko: "I still cannot commit to spending all of my waking time to devising a new vessel, however. Unless you are both truly willing to let this situation go as it is for many days, we will either need to obtain whatever vessel Seiga used, or find an alternate manner to bring this woman to the Netherworld."
> Miko: "I had actually arranged for Seiga to come to this village with her entourage once they had all gathered, in the interest of controlling the timing and location of the inevitable encounter. I am not sure what she will do now, however. It is entirely possible she is working to retrieve Yoshika as we speak."
> Youmu: Span fingers. "Wait, I have an idea. I had left a message with the ship ghost, asking if Byakuren could join us for the return trip to the Netherworld, in the interest of theatre organization, since everyone else is here."
> Miko: Give an ever-so-slight eye-twitch, but say nothing.
> Youmu: "Perhaps she could carry Meira to the tree?"
> Miko: "That would certainly be preferable to preparing a new vessel. In that case, I will need to obtain some talismans. Can I acquire some in this village?"
> Youmu: Are we aware of anywhere in the village that sells talismans?
> Miko: "That would be most appreciated. And I trust that Tojiko will not cause you any problems."
> Miko: Fish out another 10☼ and give it to Reimu. "Please consider this recompense for the resource expenditure I have caused you,."
> Miko: Put it back. "I see. Very well, if you insist."
> Youmu: "In that case, I'm going to return to the Temple, and given them an update on the situation."
> Miko: "Hmm." Look to Kotohime. "Would you be willing to watch our unconscious friend here? I would like to investigate the local curio shops, if any of them are still open."
> Youmu: What curio shops do we know of in the village?
> Youmu: "Not immediately, no. I would appreciate your attendance when we travel to the Netherworld, though."
> Miko: "I was prepared to seek out and purchase some blank talismans before you offered some of yours. Or are you saying that most shops are likely to be closed right now?"
> Miko: "In that case, let us begin what we need to do."
> Youmu: "I'll return shortly."
> Miko make our way over to the unconscious woman and begin our investigation of her condition.
> Youmu: Head back toward the Myouren Temple.
> Youmu: Is the ship ghost looking this way or no?
> Youmu: Give a wave upward.
> Youmu: "Hoy."
> Youmu: "Yes. There has been a bit of a development. Nothing bad, only unexpected. Would it be possible to speak to your matriarch?"
> Youmu: Nod. "Thank you."
> Youmu: Head inside the Temple.
> Youmu: Watch for a few seconds, to see if Byakuren reacts appreciably.
> Youmu: Head back outside.
> Youmu: What is to the north of here, anyway?
> Youmu: Wait a few seconds for the ship ghost to react appreciably. If she does not, re-enter the Temple.
> Youmu: Put on a look of uncertainty.
> Youmu: "Um...she seems to be meditating right now. Is it truly okay to interrupt this?"
> Youmu: "I certainly believe I have a good reason to speak with her, but I also am not sure that my opinion alone is enough to warrant the disruption of another's religious practices."
> Youmu: Nod. "Very well. Still, is there perhaps something I can do for her or this temple at a later time, given I am now imposing upon her twice?"
> Youmu: Nod. "Very well."
> Youmu: Re-enter the Temple.
> Youmu: Remove our shoes and place them in the cubby, then walk our way toward the main hall.
> Take on a soft voice, so as to not startle.
> "Um, pardon me..."
> Youmu: "I sincerely apologize for interrupting your meditation, but I have a substantial time-sensitive favor to ask."
> Youmu: "Those who are a part of the Netherworld's upcoming theatrical performance have more or less banded together in seeing through the end of the incident that Seiga was responsible for. We will be returning to the Netherworld shortly, with the one who currently possesses the life force of the Saigyou Ayakashi, to hopefully resolve the life force incident and present the cast to Yuyuko-sama at the same time."
> Youmu: "Accompany us to meet Yuyuko-sama, as she is rather eager to meet her cast. And, if possible, um..."
> Youmu: Squirm a bit uncomfortably.
> Youmu: "...assist us in transporting the one who currently possesses the Saigyou Ayakashi's life force, as she is presently unconscious."
> Youmu: Give a deep bow. "Thank you, truly. And, for what it is worth, I do believe Miss Keine is currently patrolling this village from the air."
> Youmu: "Nothing that I can think of. I was not here for very long before the main group arrived from the Hakurei Shrine."
> Youmu: Follow. "I understand. It is only sensible. We will be waiting outside the tavern. You do have a little bit of time if you wish; Reimu went back to her Shrine to obtain some blank talismans for use in returning the Saigyou Ayakashi's life force to its proper place."
> Youmu: Put our own shoes back on. "Very well. Please do not feel obligated to rush and risk forgetting to check on something important, however."
> Youmu: "Understood. And thank you, again, very much."
> Youmu: Return to the tavern entrance.
> Miko: Given the current state of their integration, how difficult will it be to separate this entity from Meira?
> Miko: Can we tell how much longer we have before this integration is irreversible?
> Miko: Is this entity's presence and integration presenting an active threat to Meira's well-being?
> Miko: Is this sort of integration the sort of 'very bad thing' we had considered when mulling over the possibility of moving the life force into another person?
> Miko: If 'emergency surgery', as it were, were necessary to get the entity out of Meira, would we be able to recreate this prison-of-sorts in someone else?
> Miko: It may not be a permanent solution, but would transferrence to another at least reset the metaphorical timer on how long it would take for the two entities to integrate into one?
> Miko: Does all this mean that, in theory, we could extract the life force of one humanoid and place it within the body of another with one of these rituals, and they would slowly meld into a single entity again? Ignoring the cruelty of doing so to unwilling parties, of course, as this is only theory.
> Miko: Wait for Youmu to get into reasonable conversation range.
> Miko: "You did quite a number on your friend here. Were it not for her...enhancement, shall we say, I dare say she would be comatose at present."
> Youmu: Grimace. "I am not looking forward to my next conversation with her. How is she now, then?"
> Miko: Frown. "Not great. There is definitely something inside her, an entity I can only assume is your youkai tree. It is slowly integrating with her, and whomever would have control over her body once that process is complete is something I cannot discern."
> Youmu: Stiffen. "I will not allow that to pass. Can you reverse the process?"
> Miko: "It will not be trivial by any stretch, but it is possible, yes. Once Reimu returns with the necessary equipment."
> Youmu: "You said you could transfer the Saigyou Ayakashi from one person to another, yes? Would that help her at all?"
> Miko: "Only at great risk to the recipient. I would not recommend doing so if it is at all avoidable."
> Youmu: "We'll see. But if Meira takes a turn for the worse, I want you to take it out of her and put it in me instead."
> Miko: Would Youmu's status as a half-human half-ghost influence such a process in any way?
> Miko: "Before you make such a dangerous request, you should know that the nature of your being makes it even less predictable as to how you will be affected."
> Youmu: "I will take that risk. The Saigyou Ayakashi is my responsibility. I will not allow anyone else to place themselves in that level of danger."
> Miko: Frown in silence, then sigh. "I shall hope it does not come to that."
> Youmu: About how long does it take to get to the Hakurei Shrine from here? Assume travel that is a bit slower than our top speed.
> Youmu: Repeat above question, but for the gate to the Netherworld instead of the Shrine.
> Youmu: "Well, it most likely won't take us all more than an hour from now to get to the Saigyou Ayakashi, barring unforeseen delays. Will that be too long for her?"
> Miko: Would Meira suffer terribly from an extra hour before the ritual begins?
> Miko: "Mmm...I cannot be completely sure of anything, but that will most likely not be enough time to cause further complications."
> Youmu: "Then it seems all we need do is wait, and trust in those we are waiting for."
> Miko: Take a look around. Are the three of us the only ones here?
> Miko: Well, we knew this was coming...not a lot we can do about it, though, if it means restoring things to normal.
> Miko: "Ah, it seems we have company."
> Youmu: Look over.
> Miko: Nod our head in Byakuren's direction. "Good afternoon."
> Youmu: Return the bow. "Yes, hello again. We will be departing for the Netherworld once Reimu returns with the necessary supplies to help save our unconscious friend here. Immediate problem notwithstanding, Yuyuko-sama will be delighted to meet her cast."
> Youmu: "I suppose you may inspect Meira for yourself, if you like. To be honest, I was suggesting you not rush here at least partially because I did not know for sure when Reimu would return."
> Miko: Gesture toward Meira. "There is currently a second entity inside this woman, presumably the life force of the Netherworld's youkai tree. The situation is a result of a transference ritual. It seems the entity has begun integrating with the woman, though the process is not yet irreversible."
> Youmu: How is Kotohime taking in all this? She's been fairly quiet...
> Miko: "As well as can be expected, given the circumstances. We certainly do not have all the time in the world before the integration is complete and there is one entity where there were once two, but the travel time from here to the Nertherworld should not be nearly enough to doom them to whatever fate they have in store for each other."
> Youmu: Lean over and have a look at Kotohime's eyes, to see if she's doing just a regular person zone-out or one of her special brand of zone-outs.
> Miko: "I will perform another transference ritual, to pull the entity out of her and place it back in the tree."
> Youmu: Pull back a bit. "Are you all right?"
> Miko: "It is the safest option we have, yes. There are no guarantees, but that is true no matter what we do, and the situation cannot be left to resolve itself. "
> Youmu: "My apologies that this has come to pass the way it has. To be honest, it is all rather over my head as well."
> Miko: Nod, then look back and Meira. "So now, all that can be done is to wait. And determine what is to be done with this horse in the meantime, I suppose, depending on whether or not we are permitted to simply leave it here while we conduct our businesses in the Netherworld."
> Youmu: "I'm...not really sure the Saigyou Ayakashi can be held responsible for anything that has transpired today, though."
> Miko: Look back to Byakuren. "As you say. That is one less thing to concern myself with, then, at least."
> Youmu: "Well, if I stole your life energy, put it inside me, and then used that extra power to do bad things, could you really be held accountable?"
> Miko: "I must admit, I was more concerned with the rudeness of simply leaving a horse on someone else's property for an extended period of time. But it is good to her the point you have raised nonetheless."
> Youmu: "Perhaps, Hopefully we will not have to find out for sure, though."
> Miko: "I suppose that is true."
> Youmu: Look up where Reimu is looking.
> Miko: "Ah, it is actually not mine. I have yet to hear this for certain, but I believe it belongs to its unconscious rider."
> Youmu: "Ah, excellent."
> Miko: "My apologies, I could have been clearer about the ownership."
> Youmu: Look over to the others. "Pardon me, ladies, but it seems our waiting has ended."
> Miko: Look toward the Shrine.
> Miko: Take the papers from Reimu and give them a once-over to determine adequacy.
> Miko: Is any special sort of writing implement required to create the talismans, or willanything that writes serve our purpose?
> Miko: Look to Youmu. "May I assume you have writing brushes and ink in your home?"
> Youmu: Where would we get these things?
> Youmu: "That will not be a problem, no."
> Miko: Look to Reimu. "In that case, I am prepared to depart."
> Youmu: "And I as well."
> Miko: Head over to Meira and lift her off the horse, unless Byakuren moves to cut us off.
> Miko: "Oh, my apologies. Please, go right ahead. You are likely better suited for the task than I am anyway."
> Miko: "If you feel any problems arise within her, please let me know so I can investigate."
> Youmu: Look to Kotohime. "Let's go."
> Both: Take flight and head back to the Netherworld.
> Youmu: Look to Kotohime with a small smile. "Welcome to the Netherworld. Please try not to crash into something in your excitement."
> Miko: Look to Byakuren. "No problems, then, I trust?"
> Miko: Can we sense anything from Meira at this distance?
> Miko: "Excellent." Look to Youmu. "Let us head to your mansion, then."
> Youmu: Nod. "Got it."
> Both: Head to Hakugyoukurou proper.
> Miko: "We will need to retrieve ink and a brush first, though I suppose there is no reason why some cannot go to find those while others wait at the tree."
> Youmu: "It seems to make the most sense for everyone to go to Hakugyokurou first, since that results in two trips instead of three. But if present company would prefer, I can lead us to the Saigyou Ayakashi first."
> Youmu: Nod. "Let us head to Hakugyokurou first, then."
> Youmu: Lead onward! But not so fast that people can't catch up.
> Miko: Follow!
> Youmu: Head to the closest location where we are likely to acquire a brush and ink.
> Youmu: Hand the ink and brush over to Miko. "Here you are."
> Miko: Take them. "Thank you."
> Miko: Do we need a flat surface, like a desk, to write up all these talismans? Or could we do it standing at the tree?
> Youmu: Look to Kotohime. "By the way, I can appreciate your enthusiasm, but please try not to run off anywhere."
> Miko: Have a seat at the nearest writing surface and get to work.
> Youmu: "I understand. But I must request proper behavior while we are on these grounds. I hope you understand."
> Miko: If Byakuren is still within sight, glance up at her. "This will take a few minutes, so if you like, you may put her down and rest your arms a bit."
> Miko: Get back to work.
> Youmu: "No, not at all. But this place is important to many, and it is my duty to make sure it is treated with respect."
> Miko: "As you wish, then."
> Youmu: Take on a bit of a softer tone. "I don't mean to accuse you of any wrong-doing. I have simply noticed how antsy and excited you have been since arriving here, and I want to make sure that does not lead to anything rash."
> Youmu: Chuckle a bit. "I can imagine, given the events of today."
> Youmu: "It is some parts your fascination with my ghost half, and some parts what Komachi said. I did also happen to notice that many of your possessions had a small aura of death about them. I imagine these are not all coincidences."
> Youmu: What do we know of death and Lunarians?
> Youmu: "Well, you are from the moon, yes? It is my understanding that Lunarians do not naturally die, so a fascination with the concept is understandable."
> Youmu: Quick, is anyone else paying attention, or at least looking somewhat this way?
> Youmu: "Oh, sorry, I made you do it again."
> Youmu: "I said something to make you zone out again."
> Youmu: Frown. "You seem awfully unconcerned about this."
> Youmu: "What if I was able to demonstrate it to you?"
> Youmu: "Then you have notning to lose from my trying, yes?"
> Youmu: Float our ghost half above and behind us, slightly to our right, so it is visible over our right shoulder.
> Youmu: "How about this? All you have to do is keep track of my ghost half while I speak."
> Youmu: "I am going to move my ghost half around while talking about the things that I claim make you zone out. If they truly do not, then you should have no issue following along, correct?"
> Youmu: Begin slowly floating our ghost half back and forth behind us, so it is still visible to someone facing us from in front of us.
> Youmu: "So I am beginning to wonder if the cause of this issue is mentioning your Lunarian background."
> Youmu: "Speaking of which, I do still think it would be to your benefit to meet your fellow Lunarians in the Bamboo Forest."
> Youmu: "You should probably respond to me about all this Lunarian stuff, to show that you're listening."
> Youmu: Float our ghost half behind our head so it is mostly obscured.
> Youmu: "Like I said, you should probably respond to me about all this Lunarian stuff, to show that you're listening."
> Youmu: Okay, this isn't what we planned, but it still works. Let's try something different.
> Youmu: "Well, I suppose if you do not wish to talk about Lunarian things, then I can keep talking about them. Like the Lunarian doctor in the Bamboo Forest."
> Youmu: While speaking, float our ghost half a bit to the right, and resume the bobbing motion. Start walking our human half to the left, and begin circling around Kotohime.
> Youmu: "I admit I am curious if you have ever met her before. A Lunarian doctor and a Lunarian law enforcement official seem like an interesting pair."
> Youmu: While speaking, continue circling our human half around her until we get behind her, while still floating our ghost half back and forth where it is in front of her.
> Youmu: What does the back of her look like?
> Youmu: How good are we at working with long hair?
> Youmu: Inventory
> Youmu: What is the floor in this room made of?
> Youmu: Is there a table or some other non-floor flat surface behind? If not, is there at least a wall?
> Miko: How're those talismans coming along?
> Miko: Are Reimu and Byakuren behaving themselves?
> Youmu: Is there room on the table for us to lay Miko's sword without knocking the urn over?
> Miko: Was the giant tree visible from where we entered this building?
> Youmu: "And then there is another Lunarian princess. I wonder if there would be conflicting claims to Lunarian ruling status if you met her?"
> Youmu: Place Miko's sword gently on the table.
> Youmu: "Actually, now that I think about it, perhaps you and this Lunarian princess are sisters? That would be a rather amusing coincidence, I think."
> Youmu: While speaking, circle back around in front of Kotohime where we were previously.
> Youmu: "Okay, I think you can stop now."
> Youmu: Okay, good, she wasn't just refusing to respond.
> Youmu: Nod and hold up our hands, open, in front of us. "Do you notice anything different?"
> Youmu: Frown. "If you were aware of that, why didn't you respond to any earlier question when I asked you to?"
> Youmu: "Well, I guess it wasn't a question, but I asked you to respond to the subject I was talking about, to show that you were listening instead of just silently staring at my ghost half."
> Youmu: Frown. "I believe I have found the problem, then."
> Youmu: "There is a certain word that...does something to you. It is as if you simply do not hear the context in which this word was said."
> Youmu: "I agree. But it happens, all the same. Whether you believe me or not, however, I am concerned as to what may happen if someone more malevolent discovers this about you."
> Youmu: "You were watching my ghost half and it still happened, though."
> Youmu: Shake head.
> Youmu: "Everything I said was with the same tone I am using now."
> Youmu: Frown. "Why and how would I deceive you this way? Especially when such a deception could be easily revealed simply by trying to do this in front of other people, like the three people in the other room."
> Youmu: "This would be a rather inappropriate thing to joke about to this degree, I think."
> Youmu: "I still think we should ask the others, then, when they are no longer busy."
> Youmu: "Well, the immediate issue is being dealt with as best we can at present."
> Youmu: "I do not believe so, unless you have experience with Taoism."
> Miko: How much of the other-room conversation can we hear?
> Miko: Good. Keep doing the thing.
> Youmu: "I will take that as a 'no', then."
> Youmu: Shrug. "Then I suppose we are stuck here until they are finished in there."
> Youmu: "That is fine. I will go with you, though, because it is very easy to get lost in these hallways."
> Youmu: Are we in a part of Hakugyokurou that is at least somewhat conducive to touring?
> Youmu: Nod. "Certainly. We should let the others know that we are going to wander around, however."
> Youmu: Make our way to the sitting room where the others are.
> Youmu: "Pardon me, Miss Miko, but how much additional time do you require?"
> Miko: How far from the end are we?
> Miko: "Ten minutes."
> Youmu: Look to Kotohime. "Then that is how long you have."
> Youmu: It wouldn't take more than a minute to reach the art gallery, would it?
> Youmu: "Thank you."
> Miko: Nod, then get back to work.
> Youmu: Return to the room where we were previously, then look to Kotohime.
> Youmu: "There is an art gallery a few floors up from here, but it takes a couple minutes of travel. Closer rooms include sitting rooms and personal suites and similar things."
> Youmu: "Very well."
> Youmu: Guide Kotohime through the various rooms on the current floor, keeping mental note of the time.
> Youmu: How much time has elapsed?
> Miko: Put our materials down. "That should do it. My apologies for the delay."
> Youmu: Look to Kotohime. "I regret interrupting this tour, but it has been some time. Perhaps we should return to check on the others."
> Miko: Carefully gather our materials and return the brush and unused ink to the other room. stow our new talismans away if it will help not drip or spill ink everywhere.
> Miko: Poke our head into the hallway and check back and forth for our missing party members.
> Youmu: Begin making our way back to where the others were.
> Youmu: "Ah, sorry for the delay!" Catch back up.
> Miko: Look around for the voice.
> Miko: "All that is necessary now is to perform the ritual. We will need to be at the tree for this."
> Youmu: "I will lead you all there. This way, please."
> Youmu: Lead our guests to the Saigyou Ayakashi.
> Miko: Follow! (We've been doing a suspicious amount of following today...)
> Both: So much for being alone.
> Miko: Does Yoshika have another talisman on her face?
> Miko: Turn to the others. "Please pardon a moment's delay, something is curious about this."
> Miko: Make our way over to Yoshika. "Yoshika, dear, has Seiga been here recently?"
> Youmu: Frown and tag along.
> Miko: Inspect the talisman on Yoshika's face. Is it Seiga's writing?
> Miko: "Who has been here recently, then?"
> Youmu: "What's going on? Is there a problem?"
> Miko: Beckon Youmu over. "Please, come, and take a look at this writing."
> Miko: Gesture to the talisman.
> Youmu: Frown in uncertainty, but get closer and take a look at the writing on Yoshika's talisman.
> Youmu: Does Yuyuko know Taoism or necromancy, then?
> Miko: What does the talisman say for Yoshika to do?
> Youmu: Raise an eyebrow. "This looks like Yuyuko-sama's handwriting. Did she do this?"
> Miko: "Mmm. Very well. In that case it does not seem to be much to worry about."
> Miko: Look to Yoshika. "Sorry, dear, but we have something very important to do right now. We will not be going far, though."
> Miko: Where is the best location for Meira for ritual purposes?
> Miko: Make our way close to the trunk of the tree and find a suitable location that is not close to Yoshika and where Meira could be reasonably laid down.
> Youmu: Oh, this could be good.
> Youmu: Gesture back and forth between the two. "Yoshika, this is Kotohime. She's a princess from the moon. Kotohime, this is Yoshika. She's a zombie."
> Miko: Call out and beckon Byakuren over. "I have found a suitable location! Please bring the swordswoman here."
> Youmu: "Really, there is only trouble when Seiga orders her to be naughty."
> Miko: Indicate the location we found. "Here, please."
> Miko: Is Meira's current position fine?
> Youmu: "In a way. I believe that jiangshit like Yoshika are literally incapable of disobedience, though."
> Miko: "That should do nicely, thank you. For this next part, I will need solitude and distance, for everyone's safety. I suggest the rest of the group put Yoshika between themselves and myself; you should all be safe there. And please, no one is to attempt to get close to me unless I request it."
> Miko: Watch the others until they are beyond Yoshika.
> Youmu: "How far do we need to go?"
> Youmu: Look back at Miko, then move so we're behind Yoshika by a few yards relative to Miko's position?
> Miko: How do things look now?
> Miko: Nod and give a wave, then get to work on that ritual.
> Youmu: "I hope this is the end of this, then."
> Youmu: Turn to the rest of the group.
> Youmu: "As long as we have time, then, I want to truly thank all of you for all the help you have provided me today."
> Youmu: ...Did we ever retrieve Miko's sword from the sitting room?
>Youmu: And wheres Yukari and Yuyuko?
> Youmu: "I have confidence that she will. And the pleasure was all mine, Reimu."
> Youmu: Nothing we can do now but wait. So...let's wait.
> Can it be assumed that, until this process is complete or there is an obvious Netherworld interruption, all commands will be for Miko?
> Miko: Is this part for the course for this process? Or has this never happened before?
> Miko: Do we have our sword, or any leftover blank talismans?
> Inventory
> How do we feel?
> Has our current garb changed at all?
> Inspect the precipice upon which we currently stand for anything unusual. (Unusual in the context of the situation, of course.)
> Go ahead and yawn.
> How does the atmosphere and the energy of the land feel?
> Attempt flight.
> How's our headache doing?
> Gently remove our earmuffs and see if we can hear the desire in the air.
> Do we feel sleepy and/or tired?
> Put our earmuffs back on.
> Take flight and head in whatever direction we're currently facing.
> We've already yawned twice since arriving here? Odd, we hadn't yet done so this day before now.
> Call out into the openness.
> "Miss Meira?"
> Look around some more.
> "Saigyou Ayakashi, is this your doing?"
> Forget looking around for the time being.
> Dive down to the trees below.
> Have we seen any water yet?
> What was the desire we first sort-of felt from the entity within Meira, when we were first examining her?
> Let's review, then. This entity had a quality of attracting others to it, and seemed to be very bad news in general. Now, in the process of trying to take it out of Meira, we've been whisked away to wherever-this-is, some very tranquil naturey place that almost seems designed to get us to relax, and now we're yawning when we weren't nearly that tired before coming here, and there's no water around to, say, splash our face to keep ourselves awake.
> This all seems awfully suspicious. This place seems exceedingly likely to be an illusion...trying to get us to relax and let our guard down, maybe?
> Take out our sword and poke a tree trunk with it.
> Can we feel any life energy from within the tree?
> Do so.
> Inspect another tree the same way.
> Okay, something is definitely screwing with us.
> Head through the underbrush, away from the tree we just investigated.
> Continue moving along until we get through the underbrush or observe anything significant (including the possibility that we're not actually getting anywhere), whichever comes first.
> Another one? We can't let this thing get to us. We're better than that!
> Take flight and head back into the sky.
> Look down below again. Does anything unusual stand out?
> Fly to the next valley and look down and inspect that one.
> Keep inspecting valleys from the air until we find something unusual.
> Is there any way we could investigate our own yawning?
> Is there some sort of Taoist introspection ritual that will allow ourselves to examine ourselves?
> Do we trust ourselves to meditate without falling asleep?
> Could we meditate in the air and keep ourselves afloat?
> Would we be able to keep ourselves awake via imminent threat of pain, such as positioning our sword so that, if we were to fall asleep and slump forward, we would cut ourselves?
> What sort of stimulus would we usually use, or expect to be able to use, to keep us conscious enough to make sure we don't fall asleep, but also not interrupt our meditation focus? Something stereotypical like a waterfall is clearly out right now.
> Hmm.
> Don't let the yawn happen. Let's see how much control this entity really has over us in this illusionary land.
> Fight it! Don't let that entity win! We are better than some insolent youkai tree!
> Ugh, fine. Let it go.
> Okay, we gotta do something about this. Do we remember approximately which valley had the tree that was missing its life force momentarily?
> Head back to that valley and land inthe forest again.
> Find a tree with a particularly skinny branch.
> Take our our sword and whack that branch off of the tree.
> Inspect the interior of both the tree and the branch (that is, the flat part of the point of severance).
> Rise up a bit into the air and start hacking off those shiny leaves.
> Frown.
> Fly back up to the precipice range and land on the top of the closest precipice.
> Is there a sun anywhere?
> Fire some standard danmaku into the air.
> Fire some more at the ground.
> Poke the ground with our sword.
> Inspect ourselves visually to make sure nothing is amiss.
> ...Include a chest check for the usual growths.
> How warm is the rock we are currently on?
> Reach down and feel it with a hand.
> Interesting. No sun obviously means little-to-no heat, but there is still plenty of light, and the trees and grass have grown...how is this possible?
> ...That insolent tree must be trying to put us to sleep somehow. What sort of magic might have this influence on us?
> Could we possibly search for whatever magic force is influencing us this way?
> What options are at our disposal?
> Can we examine the unseen nature of the air?
> Can we examine the unseen nature of ourselves?
> Inspect the air as we inspected the trees.
> When we tried to listen to the desires in the air earlier, would it have been possible to make them out if we had tried listening harder? Or were we already paying as much attention as we could?
> Remove the earmuffs and listen more closely.
> Can we tell what that thing is?
> Give ourselves some time to listen to it and study it.
> How do we get to it?
> Do we feel like we'd be able to glean any more information about how to get to wherever these desires are emanating from through further study of the air? Or have we likely reached the limit of usefulness there?
> How sugary is Tojiko's konpeito?
> Open our remaining bag of konpeito and eat three pieces. Hopefully we'll get some temporary energy from the boost in sugar.
> ...Pop one more, than put the bag away again.
> Now that we have those in our system, let's go for it. Get in proper position and begin meditating, but we must absolutely not let ourselves fall asleep.
> What is the desire around us?
> Maybe, but's check something first. Is this desire around us now the same one we couldn't hear earlier, because it was 'outside' this realm?
> Let's focus on it, then. At the very least, if we know more about it, it may be easier to tune out.
> Interesting. No desire to put us to sleep? Hmm...
> Would we normally have felt the rock underneath us immediately?
> So it was slow to react to our meditation and investigation into its desire...huh.
> Resume meditation.
> Push it to the side and continue meditating.
> Examine ourselves.
> Can we remove this curse?
> If not, can we at least resist it?
> Can we tell where it came from?
> Is it coming from the illusory environment, or coming from the desire?
> Is it coming from 'all around us' as actually from from all directions; or just surrounds us?
> Consider the likelihood this is a hostile act considering the nature of it, against potential alternatives, such as environmental or supernatural.
> Who or what do we know that would have a motive and ability to do something like this to us?
> Can we still feel the environment around us?
> Continue meditating, and see if the extra time analyzing this curse provides more information.
> Would extra meditation help get more information? Or have we 'seen' just about everything we're gonna 'see'? Or do we not know one way or the other?
> When we were studying the desire around us earlier, could we have kept studying it to learn more information? Or are we not sure one way or the other?
> How might we resist this curse?
> How would we normally do such a thing?
> Can we tell if any of those apply to this one?
> If we let ourselves focus on the desire again, would we have enough time to do more investigating than we did last time?
> Let's try that, then. Shift focus to the desire so we can analyze it further.
> Try to tell if it's the source of the curse.
> Are we capable of moving whilst meditating, even if just a little bit, without breaking our focus?
> Whilst meditating, are we capable of contemplating the ramifications of not really feeling the world around us for a while without breaking our focus?
> Let's resume meditation, then, and ruminate on such things.
> Well, it seems highly likely that this world is an illusion, at least, which would probably qualify as 'very wrong'.
> Might we be able to will the curse or the world away whilst meditating?
> Let us try to will the curse away first, then.
> Very well. Let us try to will the world away instead.
> Excellent. Keep at it. We know that world isn't real; we routinely couldn't feel it when we should, we couldn't find any life force in that tree, and the flora were somehow surviving without any sun.
> Look upward.
> Look around.
> Is this the same illusory region as before?
> Are any fluttery things within reach? Touch one if so.
> Attempt flight.
> Fly toward the Saigyou Ayakashi until we encounter one of the fluttery things.
> Touch it.
> Gah, pull away, pull away!
> Is there a clear path from our current location to the Saigyou Ayakashi?
> Make the rest of our way to the Saigyou Ayakashi, avoiding petals along the way.
> Fly up to the woman.
> Could we lift Meira away from the branches? Or are they fully coiled around her?
> Are we in danger of any petals falling on us here?
> Pull out our sword and study the nature of the branches holding Meira up in order to determine a proper slicing order to make it easier to retrieve her.
> Begin performing some pseudo-surgical cuts on the branches around her left arm so as to free said arm without actually cutting said arm.
> Is there anywhere else where the tree has her reasonably bound?
> Cut those away as well, then sheathe our sword and attempt to lift Meira out of the tree's grasp.
> How difficult is it to carry her?
> Back away from the tree a bit.
> Is Meira definitely down for the count?
> Do the branches seem to be reaching for her?
> Glance downward.
> Is there any ground nearby where we can put Meira down? Or is this all just empty blackness?
> Were the branches possibly reaching for us?
> Are the roots themselves moving? Or is there something trapped in them that is moving?
> Turn around, so we can see where we're going, and get further away.
> After three seconds, turn back around and reassess the Saigyou Ayakashi.
> Look up. Is it like that directly above us?
> Turn back around and reassess the Saigyou Ayakashi. Also, take note of the petal-state of the space in front of us.
> Shake Meira a little bit in our arms.
> Take on a soft but firm and urgent tone.
> "Miss Meira! Miss Meira!"
> How are we doing on the tired/sleepy bit?
> Let's risk something, then.
> Gently lay Meira down in front of us. If she starts falling, however, immediately fly downward in pursuit and catch her again.
> That's a good sign, at least.
> Pick Meira back up and fly back toward the Saigyou Ayakashi, stopping several yards outside the range of its roots.
> Put ourselves between the roots and Meira, sword at the ready to go on the offensive.
> How large are these roots compared to our blade and ourselves?
> Dash in to the closest root and hack at it an attempt to cut through it in one clean swing.
> Okay, that's not an option.
> Pull our sword back and risk a look upward at the space directly above us, checking for petal coverage.
> Could we still travel through them?
> Are there branches that we could reach before being besieged by petals?
> Did Meira have a sword?
> Let's head upward, then, at a notably slower speed to allow ourselves more control in order to dodge the petals.
> Are we within sword range of some branches now?
> Start hacking away at the branches withing range.
> Can we use our sword as a focus for firing lasers?
> Let us do so, then, aiming a laser so that it would pass through a few branches in order to hit the trunk of the tree.
> Make our way back down to Meira, carefully maneuvering around the petals as needed in a controlled descent.
> How does our belt function? Is it some sort of clasp, or is it simply a wrap?
> How long is out belt?
> Does Meira's garb have belt loops?
> And does she have any sashes?
> If we were to undo our sash, how quickly could we redo it?
> If we looped our sash with hers, effectively linking us together, would we still be able to move at a reasonable speed? Obviously our movement would be hindered somewhat, but we were able to move around reasonably well while carrying her.
> Only one way to find out!
> Sheathe our sword and undo our sash.
> Loop our sash once around Meira's sash, at the part of her sash that is at the middle of her back. (If she has more than one, loop around the one closest to her waist.)
> Adjust our sash so that the loop is also at the middle of our sash, position ourselves so that the loop will be at about the middle of our back, and retie our sash, effectively linking us with Meira and putting us back-to-back.
> Pull our sword back out and face the Saigyou Ayakashi again.
> Make our way toward said root, using the travel as an opportunity to gauge our current mobility.
> Once we get in range to do so, poke the root with the tip of our sword.
> Reach out with our noninjured hand to touch the root.
> Look upward. Do we have the time needed to analyze the Saigyou Ayakashi without getting ripped apart by falling petals?
> Can we tell where the petals are coming from?
> Are there petals below the tree? Or are they landing on the tree and its roots?
> Make our way underneath the trunk of the tree. Wrap our non-sword arm behind us around Meira as best as can be done and use the corresponding hand to brace Meira against us so as to lessen the stress on the knot in our sash.
> Check upward. How well does the tree serve as a petal umbrella?
> Is this assessment factoring in the job that the trunk itself, as well as the roots, are doing in blocking petals?
> Ignoring Meira, are we as a person wider than the trunk of the tree?
> How long would it take us to study the nature of the tree?
> How long would it take us to study the nature of Meira?
> Position our person so it is directly below the trunk of the tree. The idea is that petals should be unable to drop directly onto us, instead needing to come in from a side.
> Strange!
> Poke our sword up to where the tree should be.
> Pull our sword back and reach out to touch where the tree should be with our free hand.
> Does it feel like the tree trunk?
> Does our cloak shield us from petals at all?
> This is probably our best chance to learn anything. Analyze the tree.
> Is this the actual physical tree, or merely a seemingly-physical representation of its life force?
> If it is the latter, could we take it into ourselves?
> Assuming this Meira is the same way, if she is a seemingly-physical representation of herself, could we take her into ourselves?
> Does the uprooting of the tree represent its struggling and breaking free?
> If so, how might we re-root the tree?
> Might we learn more from further studying of the type we are doing now?
> Could we study Meira in our current positions?
> How exactly would we take either life force into our own? We have blank talismans, but nothing with which to write.
> If we took Meira's life force into ourselves, what would happen to her body?
> Do a little more tree studying.
> If we did that to Meira, would we be able to restore her body back to life by returning her life force?
> Could we analyze how the tree is escaping the ritual?
> Try analyzing how the tree is escaping the ritual.
> Really now? How insolent. Can we tell precisely what it is doing to us?
> Use our sword to shank the tree. Problem solved!